Mindanao Daily (January 27-28, 2018)

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Palace backs homicide raps vs. Aquino, others - Roque M

Contractor sets closure of bridge in Bukidnon

By Walter I. Balane MindaNews

MALAYBALAY CITY (MindaNews ) – Mangima Bridge in Manolo Fortich town, Bukidnon will be closed to traffic for some hours from January 26 to 29 due to the Department of Public Works and Highways’ bridge widening project.

The Public Affairs, Information and Assistance Vendors of food items swarm on a bus as it stops at a section of the highway in Ba(PAIA) division of the Office rangay Maluko, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon that is undergoing repair.

See closure, page 11

mindanews file photo by h . marcos c . mordeno

7 Mindanawons among 19 named to ConCom to review 1987 Constitution

By Carolyn O. Arguillas MindaNews

DAVAO CITY - After 13 months, President Rodrigo Duterte has finally named 19 of 25 members of the Consultative Committee (ConCom) that would review the 1987 Constitution and submit recommendations on proposed amendments.

Seven of the 19 are Mindanawons, three of them Moro: Aquilino Pimentel, Jr., Reuben Canoy, Antonio

Arellano, Roan Libarios, Randolph Parcasio, Eddie Alih and Pangalian Balin-

By Jelly Musico, PNA

alacanang on Friday said the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has made the right decision in filing homicide charges against former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III and former police officials behind the botched Mamasapano police operation that claimed the lives of 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos.

“Sol-Gen as counsel of the government is correct.

There ought to be accountability for those responsible for the SAF 44,” Roque told Palace reporters.

Last Thursday, Solicitor General Jose Calida and Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman Dante Jimenez filed a manifestation asking the Supreme Court (SC) to order the Office of the Ombudsman to file homicide charges

against Aquino and former Philippine National Police chief Alan Purisima and former Special Action Force director Getulio Napeñas Jr. Calida and Jimenez wanted Aquino, Purisima and Napenas be charged with 44 counts of reckless imprudence resulting to homicide, based on faulty planning and execution of “Oplan Exodus” on Jan. See homicide, page 11

complete the 25-member dong.

Six more members will body. The President is pushbe named by Duterte to ing for a shift to a federal system of government which requires ramending the Constitution.

Duterte issued Executive Order 10 on December 7, 2016 creating a 25-member ConCom that would be tasked to review the 1987 Constitution and submit recommendations in six President Rodrigo Roa Duterte arrives at the Rashtrapati months. It took him 13 Bhavan in New-Delhi prior to the start of the Association of months to name its mem- Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India Commemorative SumSee Review, page 11

mit on January 25, 2018. photo by albert alcain/presidential photo

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Romance and Growing with CDO Fortune at Green Developer (Part 3) Seda Centrio this February February is a busy month.

Aside from Valentine’s Day on the 14th, a lot of people will also be celebrating the Chinese New Year on the 16th. The perfect way to enjoy these special events is to reward yourself and your love d ones w it h extraordinary treats at Seda Centrio, one of CDO’s finest hotels.

For Valentine’s Day, Seda is preparing a romantic dinner that will make anyone eat their heart out with envy.

After some romance, it’s going to be fortune time on February 16 for a one-ofa-kind Chinese New Year celebration.

E at Your He ar t O ut: Romance on Valentine’s On February 14, from 6pm to 10pm, Seda invites you to a Valentine dinner buffet with your loved one.

For only Php770 (nett per person), feast on Misto’s most sumptuous culinary creations. It’s going to be an evening of love treats guaranteed to bring out the best, sweetest memories while igniting good romance.

The Valentine buffet menu consists of appetizers l i k e To m at o & B a s i l Bruschetta, Mushroom Bruschetta, and cold cuts & cheese platter; French onion soup; mixed greens and your choice of salad dressing; bread; the main

entrée – Grilled Tuna with Limoncello Sauce, Chicken Pastel, Ciambotta Vegetable & Pork Stew, Beef Stroganoff with Fettucine Noodles, and Parsley Rice; Salt & Pepper Spareribs; and desserts for the sweet tooth.

And while you and your date are enjoying each other’s company – and the food – feel extra special as guest performers serenade you with your favorite love songs.

If a dinner buffet is not your cup of tea, you can choose to surprise your date with a 5-course dinner. For Php2,200 nett per couple, bask in the sweet romance of a candlelit dinner by the Misto Al Fresco area.

This Valentine dinner consists of specially prepared appetizers, soup, and salad. Main entrée includes Salmon En Croute (rich salmon fillet wrapped in puff pastry) or Stuffed Pesto Chicken (French cut breast of chicken with sliced ham in a pesto vinaigrette), and Meat & Spincah Ravioli (a culinary feast of ground beef, spinach, spices, and Parmesan cheese). Cap off your candlelit dinner with a dessert treat.

After a romantic dinner, you and your loved one can extend Valentine’s by spending the night in one of Seda’s cozy, comfortable, and See seda, page 9

It’s fulfilling to see a company growing with the people that believe in its advocacy and ambitions. This is what Jecris Salon, an accounting supervisor of Italpinas Development Corporation, said after receiving a recognition of quality service from the company.

IDC believes that the workforce itself is one of the powers in moving the business that has been on for several years already.

As the first green developer that invested in Cagayan de Oro, IDC is proud of its hard working Kagayanon workforce. “IDC’s successful entry to the international market is powered not only by the company’s partner organizations but also by the workforce itself,” explained Architect Romolo Nati, IDC’s Chairman/Chief Executive Officer.

There are only a few companies in the country that could recognize and give value to the efforts of their employees. Michelle Bacus said, “I am thankful of all the blessings I have while working at IDC. I used to work in a bakery before landing a job at Italpinas. They hired me first as their messengerial until I got promoted as liaison officer. It’s a great opportunity to be working in this organization that recognizes their employees’ potential.”

IDC started from small, thanks to the people who believe in its advocacy, it is able to overcome challenges and continue to grow. Salon recalled the time when Italpinas was still on its fresh years, and the important of

employees that have been closed to her for so long. “I have been here for almost five years. Five years of exhaustion and of course, five years of happy memories. What I like much about IDC is its resilience no matter how many challenges that get through. We are able to smile and waive the negative vibes because we have co-workers that are optimistic. I am happy also that growing with IDC is also seeing the growth of the company. When I started working here at IDC, we were small in number, but now we can really prove that in a short span of years, Italpinas has become what it deserves to be.”

“I have been working for Italpinas for almost five years.

I developed my whole career in here, and I am grateful for the honor that the company has given to me,” exclaimed Giselle Mantilla, Customer

Date of interview: Feb. 5-6, 2018 “WELDERS & CIVIL WORKS” Feb. 16-17, 2018 “CIVIL WORKS ONLY” @ EEI CDO SATELLITE OFFICE

Service Officer.

At IDC, it’s not about the workload or getting a good position, but it is also working with a family. “What I like about working at Italpinas is the companionship I experience with other employees.

Our relationship here is even beyond that, we are more like family here,” said Rey Reyes.

“I have been working as a driver since I was a bachelor.

It never crossed my mind to get a work in a company until Italpinas offered me a job. I feel happy that there is an organization that can

appreciate our hardwork and dedication,” he added.

Last December, Italpinas recognized their employees for quality service in time for the Primavera City Tower A’s topping off celebration held at SM City Atrium in this city. Recipients of the award are Gladys Echano, Michelle Bacus, Jecris Salon, Giselle Mantilla and Rey Reyes.

Italpinas is the developer of two award-winning projects, namely Primavera Residences and Primavera City in Uptown Cagayan de Oro.

GSIS cited as frontline service champion, Seal of Excellence hall of famer under Anti-Red Tape Act program State pension fund Government Service Insura n c e Sy s t e m ( G S I S ) was recognized by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) on Monday as the Frontline Service Champion in view of its performance under the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) program.

CSC subjected GSIS to the ARTA-Report Card Survey from 2011 to 2015, and 2017 to assess how the transacting public grade the quality, efficiency and adequacy of different frontline services of the pension fund.

From a ‘Failed’ rating of 73.82% in 2012, GSIS bounced back in 2013 with a rating of 88.68% equivalent to ‘Good’, and back-to-back ‘Excellent’ ratings of 91.19% and 91.73% in 2014 and 2015, respectively.

In addition, GSIS’s resolution rate under the Contact Center ng Bayan (CCB) was 100% from 2012 to 2016, and 95.34% in 2017.

CCB is a feedback

mechanism where citizens may request information and assistance on government frontline service procedures, as well as report commendations, appreciation, complaints, and feedback.

The public may reach CCB through 1-6565, SMS/text message 09088816565, and email address email@contactcenterngbayan.gov.ph.

CSC also recognized GSIS as a Seal of Excellence Hall of Famer, which is conferred to agencies with the most number of Citizen’s Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award. To date, the pension fund has received a total of 53 Seals of Excellence – 28 in Luzon, 13 in Visayas, and 12 in Mindanao.

“We are both humbled and honored by these awards. GSIS will continue to support the efforts of the Civil Service Commission to maintain a red tape free GSIS,” President and General Manager Jesus Clint Aranas said.

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Boracay businesses learn from the experts

B

Globe myBusiness digital tools workshop teaches SMEs how to stand out

oracay is undoubtedly one of the areas most densely populated by sellers, thanks to its unstoppable and diverse market. But how can one retailer stand out in a sea of shops and vendors, many of which are selling the same thing?

To help business owners with this dilemma, Globe myBusiness brought its tried and tested digital business solutions to the country’s prime tourist destination through a four-day workshop titled Digital Tools to Future-Proof Your Business at The Tides Hotel.

Well-known entrepreneurs and inspirational speakers were tapped to share their experiences to motivate the participants.

Francis Miranda, an advertising consultant and an entrepreneur himself, has spent much of his life doing two things he loves most: helping businesses and guiding others with theirs; and travelling to as many places as he can.

With one of his beliefs being to “tailor fit your life to how you want it,” he’s a firm believer in the idea that success comes to those who actively work for it and take all the opportunities they are given.

He discussed many of the learnings he’d picked up over the years and detailed the following common trends hap-

pening across business in the Philippines today: Demand for Personalization.

Customers are increasingly demanding products and services that are made for their unique needs and lifestyles, thus, businesses should make their products cater more specifically to each customer and make their patrons feel appreciated and special.

Rise of the Omni-channel and the Importance of an Online Presence.

Customers these days tend to research online and may already have certain expectation or judgment before visiting the physical shop. The best businesses provide a seamless and convenient shopping experience whether online or offline.

Automated Business Operations.

To work around the rising needs of customers, business owners have gone digital as well. While the prospect may sound complicated to entrepreneurs who are new to the idea of digitization, it’s actually the opposite -- digital business owners are simplifying their operations by automating work processes that otherwise would be taxing or time-consuming.

Power of Customer Advocacy.

Customers love to take photos and post reviews in order to get Likes and Comments.

They serve as free advertising

that drives potential customers toward the brand -- hence the importance of providing a “wow” experience to ensure positive reviews.

When it comes to creating the ultimate “wow” experience, Francis has only three guidelines: extraordinary, progressive, and consistent. Make sure customers’ experience is beyond that of an ordinary shopping trip, treatment or procedure.

Make sure it becomes progressively better as time goes by.

And finally, make sure that quality never falters and can be relied upon.

Other speakers similarly presented the many ways a business can go digital and make the most use of Globe myBusiness’ products and solutions to enhance business operations and profit. But they put a little more on the table by talking about how working in the service industry isn’t just a matter of having the best tools but is also about putting in the best effort.

ECAMIA Hotel Management Corporation President Ana Marie Alcantara gave the audience an inside look at how she started, ran and managed her hotel business and gave some tips for working in the tourism industry. Among these tips are: Being tech-savvy.

One does not have to be a

Republic of the Philippines Office of the President

HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD

digital genius, but must know (and provide) digital means for customers to find the business, give feedback, and do what they love most: share through social media.

Catering to a diverse market.

From millennials to digital nomads to people traveling for “bleisure” (a merging of business and leisure), the market has become more diverse than ever so a business must be able to provide for people from all walks of life.

Working with and not against the competition.

In a somewhat surprising statement, Ana Marie claimed that when customers come in asking for something her hotel can’t offer, she leads them to places that will, even if these other hotels are actually her competitors. On their side, they do the same thing and refer customers to her place as well.

Being yourself.

Being unique is the only way to set one apart so customers will not go elsewhere. As she says, “You have to be authentic. You have to have your own unique selling proposition.”

CJ Juntereal, on the other hand, talked about working as a food columnist. She highlighted the one thing all businesses should prioritize as much as product or service quality: a great customer experience.

“Investing in customer service is an act of bravery because the returns don’t happen right away,” she admits. But she proves that this is definitely an investment worth making, saying, “Customer satisfaction is the prime driver especially in the hotel and restaurant industry.

Without customer satisfaction, there is nothing for your hotel or restaurant.”

Her tips for achieving this satisfaction included knowing the market well by studying data analytics, allowing customers to be as digital as they want to be, making it easy for people to reach the business, setting one apart by creating an amazing experience, and being creative with digital tools to enhance online presence.

Naturally, to achieve all these things, it’s best to get help from the right source. As Francis says, “Adapting to the future is all about choosing the right tools.” Thus, Globe myBusiness’ products and solutions are here to MSMEs with any and every business concern.

Globe myBusiness is a business unit under Globe Telecom which caters to MSMEs not only for their telco needs but also for solutions that will help create ease of business operations.

Ready to digitize your business? Visit https://mybusiness. globe.com.ph/restaurants-andcafes/ to learn more.

NEW YEAR SALE

UP TO 50% DISCOUNT ON SELECTED ITEMS

Northern Mindanao Region (NMR)

NOTICE OF FILING OF REGISTRATION STATEMENT FOR THE SOCIALIZED HOUSING PROJECT

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that A. Brown Company, Inc. represented by Mr. Allan V. Eguilos has filed with this Office a sworn registration statement for the sale of house and lot in Mangoville Subd. Located at Agusan, Cagayan de Oro City and more particularly described as Lot 16, PLSM-1098 containing an area of 49,074.0 sq.m. and covered by OCT No. P-1628 The foregoing project is for future utilization/compliance in accordance with Section 18 of Republic Act No. 7279.

All papers relative thereto shall, upon request and payment of processing fee, be available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon.

R.E.R. Highway, Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City Telefax. No. (088) 856-5763, Cel. No. 09268376542

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“Let us always keep the advocacy of public service burning”

Absent any legal impediment, the above-cited project is deemed registered and a certificate, in evidence thereof, shall forthwith be issued after five (5) days from the last day of publication.

Cagayan de Oro City this 26th day of January 2018.

(SGD.) CHARITO A. RAAGAS Regional Director

Eagle DONDON CABASA ALLORIN

TFOE Past Executive National Vice President, EY2015 TFOE Past NMR1 Governor, EY2014 & 2016

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Life’s frailties

LIKE it or not, we are all victims of life’s frailties.

Because if not of a man’s or woman’s frailties, then this planet Earth would have been uninhabited and absolutely bare –- no humans, no nothing.

Remember the embattled now detained Sen. Leila de Lima and her driver cum lover Ronnie Dayan? They were no exemption to the rule -- that of the dereliction of human life.

After all, the checkered life of the detained good senator would not be a ho-hum without the imperfections of the human heart.

And re me mb e r t he Clinton-Lewinski affair?

Their romance happened

right at the very nose of the world’s most powerful enclave – the oval office of the White House.

That sexual adventure had nearly impeached Clinton, thanks to his ever loyal wife, case was closed but not without paying a high price – Hillary didn’t make it to the White House.

Even Vice President Leni Robredo is no exception to this kind of human frailty.

Or Kris Aquino and many more out there including our very own local officials who openly flaunt their frailties before a quizzical public!

This leads to the impending passage of the bill allowing the easy dissolution of marriage filed by

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, himself a ‘victim’ of life’s frailties.

Speaker Alvarez wants this proposed bill pass before Valentine’s Day because he wanted to give it as a ‘gift’ to the Filipinos ‘suffering ‘ from their marriages, especially those working abroad.

Alvarez filed House Bill No. 6027, titled “An Act Providing for Grounds for the Dissolution of a Marriage,” in July last year.

Several legislators, including those from the opposition, contributed as co-authors. The measure allows ‘irreconcilable differences’ or ‘severe and chronic unhappiness’ as grounds for marriage dis-

Ruffy Magbanua

solution.

Once it hurdles the House approval, Senate President Aquilino ‘Koko’Pimentel III, whose marriage with ex-wife Jewel Lobaton has been annulled lately says he would ‘keep an open mind’ on the proposed measure as this would allow separated couples to move on and become ‘productive citizens.’

Advance Happy Valentine’s to all! (ruffy44_ ph2000@yahoo.com).

Have my say

How to ‘survive’?

Sometimes, we might ask ourselves: What is the sense of doing this and that? What is the meaning of life? I am sure, each and every one of us looks for a good life.

Sometimes, we seem to remain very optimistic. We think it’s easy to find always a good life. Most of the time, we are in doubt or, we even choose to be unhappy without any reason at all. To wake up in the morning with pessimism and fall asleep at night, dissatisfied and unhappy - yes, that makes life miserable.

Without happiness and satisfaction there is indeed no space for peace in our hearts and minds. Therefore there is no domestic harmony and logically, no peace on earth. The meaning of happiness is trying to manage life even with big problems, difficulties and trials. I learned this from Filipinos since staying in the

Philippines as an expatriate for good in 1999.I was really surprised to experience mutual happiness, friendship, love, unity and communal spirit with relatives in my surroundings.

Of course, I also found myself in very negative situations. I observed people, who seem to live an easy go lucky way life. But, they were like actors and actresses on stage, wearing incredible masks and pretending to be what they are not.

Hence, in Greek, they are the so-called hypocrites.

Maybe also you and me are belonging to them from time to time. Fear of rejection or displeasure of other people are becoming our daily friends. In society, it’s called “good public relation”.

Politely greeting and smiling with a set of purpose: to win them to their business.

William Congreve (16701729), English dramatist

Mindaviews

shaped the English comedy of manners through his brilliant comic dialogue, his satirical portrayal of the war of the sexes, and his ironic scrutiny of the affectations of his age. His major plays were The Old Bachelour (1693), The Double-Dealer (1693), Love for Love (1695), and The Way of the World (1700).In his “Preface to Dryden”, he wrote: No mask like open truth to cover lies as to go naked is the best disguise.

So, what really counts for us in life? Success? Power?

Strength? Money? Is it contentment? Is it peace on earth? Is it peace in our homes? Zest for life?

Let us go through life’s journey: From the time, we have been babies bubbling like a brook on the first blush of spring. We hurried up, unaware of problems and troubles, being unconscious of time, as adults we wor-

Klaus Doring

ried and became conscious of money. Then, suddenly, we looked at our aces, the first wrinkles, and the baldy patch on the forehead, the first grey hair. We observed our teeth falling out and our eyeglasses got thicker and our bones crack here and there.

We start the familiar line: “When I was young... .” And we realize our mortality. Death could knock at our door any time. We feel humbled. We have mellowed.

Have I done no wrong?

Have I been selfless or selfish? Have I been missionoriented since then? Have I lived a life worthy in God’s See batas, page 11

By LITO MONICO C. LORENZANA

A VIEW FROM THE CENTER: Is federalism dead?

1st of two parts MANILA — If we gauge by the coverage of major dailies these days, the debate on Federalism is nowhere it should be – it is off-tangent. Of late, major focus is on the spat between two co-equal institutions, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The former threatening to boycott the Constituent Assembly (ConAss) if voting is not done separately; the latter going ahead with ConAss with or without the Senate’s participation.

Speaker Alvarez wants to rush the revisions to the 1987 Constitution for a plebiscite in early May 2018

(in five months) simultaneous with the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections and a shift to a Federal system by 2019.

There is even a proposal to postpone midterm-elections next year and allow a 10-year extension of the terms of elected officials, including the President’s, for a transition to Federalism.

These scenarios could spell the death of Charter Revisions and Federalism in the country, as what happened in the past. The first attempt to revise the 1987 Constitution by FVR (Fidel V. Ramos) in 1997 through the People’s Initiative for Reform, Modernization

and Action (PIRMA) failed.

People suspected Ramos of wanting to extend his term.

President ERAP’s (Joseph Estrada) pathetic attempt in 1999 through his Constitutional Correction for Development (CONCORD) to amend the constitution to lift restrictions on foreign ownership of business on mining, mass media, public utilities, etc. did not even gain traction before he was booted out while undergoing impeachment trial.

During the administration of President GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo), a 50-man Consultative Commission (2005 ConCom) was created to propose con-

stitutional revisions through a shift from Unitary to Federal System, a Presidential to Parliamentary form of Government and the liberalizing of the economy lifting restrictions to foreign direct investments (FDI); much like what PRRD (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte) is doing today.

This too was aborted principally on the issue of the abolition of the Senate through the shift to a unicameral parliamentary form of government. All these past failures are merely alibis perpetrated by the main opponents of CharterChange and Federalism: the See federalism, page 11

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Canitoan wins big in 2017 Cebu Landmasters ends 2017 with record P4.58-B reservation sales, Oro Kalimpyo Awards plans 20 new developments in 2018

Story by MARK FRANCISCO

After more than six months of meticulously evaluating and assessing how different barangays in Cagayan de Oro implemented its proper solid waste management, the Oro Kalimpyo Search Committee together with the Solid Waste Management Board and the City Government of Cagayan de Oro awarded Canitoan led by barangay chairman Joshua Taboclaon as the cleanest village in the city as this year's Oro Kalimpyo awardee for suburban category, bagging P200,000 in the process.

Canitoan is joined by barangay Tuburan (Hinterland Category) and Brgy 22 (Urban Category), which both received P150,000.

For Hinterland Barangay category: Brgy Mambuaya won second prize with P100,000 cash prize + trophy; Brgy Baikingon, 3rd place with P75,000 cash prize + trophy; Brgy Indahag

Homegrown property developer Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI) finished the year 2017 with P4.58 billion in total reservation sales, exceeding its target by 13.75 percent and beating the 2016 result by 55.6 percent.

CLI attributed its exceptional performance

and Balubal, 4th placers with P10,000 cash prize + certificate.

For the Sub-Urban category: Brgy Gusa won 2nd place with P150,000 cash prize + trophy; Brgy Tablon 3rd place with P100,000 cash prize + trophy; Brgy Kauswagan 4th place and Brgy Bugo 5th place with P20,000 cash prize + certificate each.

For Urban category:

SSS allots P2.55-B calamity relief assistance for Typhoon Vinta and Urduja victims State-run Social Security System (SSS) said they have allotted P2.55 billion in calamity relief assistance for nearly 200,000 active members and pensioners who were affected by Tropical Storm Urduja and Vinta last year.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said members can avail of calamity loan, three months worth of advanced pension and Direct House Repair and Improvement Loan starting January 23.

“It is unfortunate that these back-to-back disasters hit the country during the holidays. We are extending financial help to our members and pensioners in the affected areas given the extent of damages,” Dooc said.

The Calamity Loan Assistance Program (CLAP) is a separate loan window from the regular salary loan program where members can borrow up to P16,000, depending on their SSS monthly salary credit, which is the basis of the amount of their contributions.

“This particular loan is payable in two years in equal monthly installments with an annual interest rate of 10 percent and one percent monthly penalty for late payments. To eliminate additional expenses on the part of our member-borrowers, we decided to waive the one percent service fee,” Dooc added.

CLAP is available to all members with home address or property in a

declared calamity area by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. A total of at least 36 monthly contributions, of which six were paid within the 12-month period preceding the date of application is required for them to qualify.

The SSS Chief also reiterated that qualified OFW members may assign a representative to file for their application, provided an authorization letter is presented.

Based on SSS data, about 667,513 paying members of the pension fund were affected by Typhoons Vinta and Urduja, which hit the country on December 12 and 21, 2017, respectively.

Of the total members affected, SSS identified over 66,000 potential borrowers with an average monthly salary credit of P10,000.

Dooc, however, clarified that members who still have outstanding loans under the Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) and previous CLAPs, as well as those receiving pensions for total permanent disability and retirement are not qualified under this new CLAP. Aside from CLAP, calamity-stricken members with damaged homes can also avail of the Direct House Repair and Improvement Loan with reduced interest rate of six percent per annum and waived processing fee.

To qualify for Direct House Repair and ImproveSee SSS, page 9

Brgy 24 won 2nd place with P100,000 cash prize + trophy; Brgy 23 3rd prize winner with P75,000 cash prize + trophy; Brgy 25 and Brgy 27 4th and 5th prize winners with P20,000 cash prize + certificate. PHOTO

BY CIO

mainly to newly launched residential projects: 38 Park Avenue (Cebu IT Park) with 745 units, Casa Mira South (Cebu) with 3,200 units, Mivesa Garden Residences (Cebu) with 1,514 units, Mesaverte (Cagayan de Oro) with 798 units, and the 694-unit MesaTierra

(Davao City). These projects are now almost fully sold.

The listed company said its sales performance is resounding affirmation that its products respond to the needs of the market and are distributed strategically to the areas where demand is strongest.

“All the projects we launched were well-received by their respective markets making 2017 another banner year,” said CLI chief executive officer Jose Soberano III referring to the firm’s efforts to penetrate new markets such as Davao and Dumaguete and to diversify its products.

The past year saw CLI aggressively venturing into the hospitality industry See sales, page 11

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Pres Duterte receives copies of signed Business Agreements President Rodrigo Roa Duterte receives the copies of signed business agreements from Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez during the PhilippinesIndia Business Forum at the Oberoi Hotel in New Delhi on January 26, 2018.

The forum was held on January 24, 2018 and was organized by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in New Delhi, in partnership with the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of External Affairs.

The participants discussed trade and investment opportunities in the Philippines during the forum.

India, a huge consumer market of fresh produce Philippine businesses need to consider the enormous opportunities offered by the India, which is becoming the world’s largest consumer market of fresh produce.

Euromonitor Digest, a

monthly online publication of the Department of Trade and Industry-Export Marketing Bureau, said healthy living, coupled with population growth and government initiative, supports positive growth forecast of fresh food.

“With a growing population, demand for fresh food has been increasing in India and this trend is expected to continue even in the forecast period. Consumers are becoming more aware of benefits of healthy living in a hectic world and the importance of consuming fresh, unadulterated produce that supplement their overall growth,” it said.

The report, culled from Euromonitor International’s Business Intelligence Research, noted these will drive demand higher for fresh food, especially fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs and pulses.

India has seen a rise in exotic commodities’ imports See business, page 10

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PH receives $1.25 -B investment agreements, pledges from India

P

residential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday, January 25, announced that investment pledges and agreements from Indian firms reached a total of $1.25 billion, which are expected to generate thousands of jobs for Filipinos.

“The truth of the matter is, even before the start of the ASEAN-India [Summit], DTI has already facilitated $1.250 billion in new investments in the Philippines,” Roque said during an official press briefing at the sidelines of the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit 2018.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced that it has obtained at least nine investment pledges and agreements from top Indian companies, which are expected to

strengthen the Philippines’ economic relationship with the South Asian country.

The DTI conducted a series of meetings at the sidelines of the Summit to discuss investment plans with major Indian conglomerates that intend to either expand or begin their operations in the Philippines.

Lopez said the agency received a total of seven letters of intent from firms that expressed interest in investing in the country. Meanwhile, he added that two memoranda of understanding (MOU) on investments were also signed between India and the Philippines.

“We had basically about nine agreements with them on how… we can both expand and strengthen our trade and investment relationship,” Lopez stressed.

“I will tell you that it is emerging to be a substantial commitment on the investment side as well as job generation side,” he added.

The investment pledges came from companies involved in pharmaceutics, information technology, See pledges, page 10

Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque during a press briefing at the International Media Center (IMC) in New Delhi, India on January 25, 2018, runs down the various discussions during President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s bilateral meeting with India Prime Minister Narendra Modi citing that both heads of states discussed matters on business and security cooperation. Also in photo is Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez. yancy lim / presidential photo

BENEFICIARY OF PVB’S 2017 FREEDOM RUN Proceeds of the Bataan Freedom Run 2017 and Mariveles-San Fernando-Capas Freedom Trail 2017 amounting to over P500,000 was turned over today to the FilipinoAmerican Memorial Endowment, Inc. (FAME), a non-stock and non-profit organization that perseveres to keep the legacy of World War II veterans alive through meaningful projects such as the restoration of historical markers.

No less than PVB Chairman and CEO Roberto De Ocampo, OBE, handed the ceremonial check to Mr. Robert Hudson, Vice-President of FAME during the launch of the 2018 iterations of the Bataan Freedom Run and the Freedom Trail during the Pandesal Forum at Kamuning Bakery in Quezon City.

Proceeds of the Bataan Freedom Run 2017 and Mariveles-San Fernando-Capas Freedom Trail 2017 amounting to over P500,000 was turned over today to the FilipinoAmerican Memorial Endowment, Inc. (FAME), a non-stock and non-profit organization that perseveres to keep the legacy of World War II veterans alive through meaningful projects such as the restoration of historical markers.

No less than PVB Chairman and CEO Roberto De Ocampo, OBE, handed the ceremonial check to Mr. Robert Hudson, Vice-President of FAME during the launch of the 2018 iterations of the Bataan Freedom Run and the Freedom Trail during the Pandesal Forum at Kamuning Bakery in Quezon City.

Photos shows (L-R) Pandesal Forum’s Wilson Flores, PVAO Administrator Lt. Gen. Ernesto Carolina, FAME Consultant Jose Antonio Custodio, FAME’s Bob Hudson, PVB Chairman Bobby De Ocampo, Bataan Governor Albert Garcia, and PVB President and COO Nonilo Cruz during the turnover ceremony.

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legislators launch pilot More Mindanao towns to FAO, parliamentary alliance for food security and nutrition get renewable energy in the Philippines AboitizPower subsidiary Hedcor Bukidnon, Inc. is on the final phase of commissioning its 69-MW hydropower facilities in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

Eight electric cooperatives in Mindanao have already signed up for Manolo Fortich Hydros renewable energy generation beginning 2018.

About 45 megawatts of hydro plant's total rated capacity have already been contracted to various electric coops in Mindanao. This includes South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO II), Zamboanga del Sur Electric Cooperatives 1 and 2 (ZAMSURECO 1 and 2) , Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative (ZANECO), Misamis Occidental I Electric Cooperative (MOELCI 1), Siargao Electric Cooperative (SIARELCO), Bukidnon Second Electric Cooperative (BUSECO), and Surigao del Sur 1 Electric Cooperative, Inc (SURSECO 1).

“With our partnerships, we are excited to deliver reliable and ample power supply to every town in need in Mindanao while ensuring none-to-very-little potential adverse effects to our environment. We are thankful to

The Switchyard. Hedcor’s 69-MW hydropower plant is now on its commissioning phase and is set to begin its commercial operations this year.

our electric coop partners for adding AboitizPower’s Cleanergy to attain a more balanced mix of energy for their franchise areas,” said Hedcor’s VP for operations and maintenance Rolando Pacquiao.

SOCOTECO II which serving the municipalities of Sarangani, Tupi and Polomolok in South Cotabato and General Santos City signed for 20 MW. Municipalities of Lingig, Bislig, Tagbina, Barobo, Hinatuan, Lianga, and San

Agustin in the province of Surigao del Sur under the franchise of SURSECO 1 will soon enjoy 2 MW of renewable energy.

ZANECO which serves the area in and around Zamboanga del Norte and the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan has 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 all over Bukidnon

Globe wins TM Forum Catalyst Award for Innovation, pushes for API standardization Globe Telecom is taking the lead in setting standards for APIs with Project OAsIS having received the award for Outstanding Catalyst for Innovation in the recently concluded TM Forum Live!

Asia 2017 in Singapore.

Short for Open APIs for a vibrant IoT ecosystem, Project OAsIS takes on bridging the fragmented IoT industr y. The goal of Project OAsIs is to identify and adopt the best-suited APIs for Telco IoT applications, platforms and connected things to make them interoperable regardless of which protocol or framework they use.

At the TM Forum Live!

Asia 2017 event, Globe Telecom demonstrated Project OAsIS through a workflow of working prototypes for a connected home and a connected parking use case. These prototypes included application management systems and mobile apps that were connected to devices including a fan,

including areas in Malaybalay City, Manolo Fortich, and Valencia City, signed for 5 MW. While MOELCI 1, currently servicing some municipalities in Misamis Occidental, and SIARELCO, covering at least nine towns in Siargao island, each signed for 1 MW of power supply.

“We look forward to partnering with more electric cooperatives in Mindanao who wish to start their shift to a more balanced mix of energy supply” Pacquiao said.

Hedcor currently operates 22 hydro power plants in the country. Five of which are located in Davao City, four in Davao del Sur and 13 in Luzon. These power plants produce a combined 185 MW of clean and renewable hydro power energy.

MANILA—The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is further strengthening its partnership with the Government of the Philippines to ensure food security and nutrition in the country with the launch today of the FAO Legislative Advisory Group-Philippines (FLAG-PH).

This parliamentary alliance, initially composed of 10 legislators from both houses of Congress, is envisaged to tackle national food security and nutrition issues by taking the necessary legislative actions that would impact on the agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and environment and natural resources sectors.

The Philippines continues to face challenges in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition, with 1.3 million families or 8.3 million Filipinos unable to meet their basic food needs in 2015 according to a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Moreover, despite the country’s economic growth in recent years, poverty incidence remains high at an estimated 21.6 percent of the population. Farmers and fisherfolk consistently rank among the poorest.

Incidence of malnutrition, especially in children 0-5 years old, remains prevalent in the most impoverished regions of the country including Mindanao.

“Legislators are crucial in creating an environment that enables the poor and marginalized to have a better chance of improving their

quality of life and contributing to the country’s food security and sustainable growth. But for them to enact responsive, well-informed and evidence-based laws, it is essential that they have access to timely and sound technical advice and information.

FLAG-PH is intended to serve as a platform for sharing expertise, experiences, and global good practices,” said FAO Representative in the Philippines José Luis Fernández.

The launch of FLAG-PH is a pilot initiative by FAO in the Philippines under a larger effort to build a Parliamentary Alliance in the Asia-Pacific region.

FLAG-PH The advisory group will initiate discussions and deliberations on proposed and pending measures on agriculture, food security and nutrition. They will also have opportunities to meet with their counterparts in other Asian countries and exchange experiences and good practices. They will also hold consultations with provincial and municipal governments, local legislative councils, farmers, fisherfolks, indigenous groups and civil society organizations.

The FLAG-PH launch was attended by Senator Cynthia Villar (Chairperson, Senate Agriculture Committee), Senator Sonny Angara (Chairperson, Senate Local Government, Ways and Means Committee), Representative Deogracias Victor Savellano (ChairperSee alliance, page 10

David Pleasance (extreme right), Chairman of the TM Forum Board Directors, visits the booth of Project OAsIS as one of the judges.

a lamp, and a motionsensor for the connected home; and a demonstration parking lot with gantries, proximity sensors, radiofrequency identification (RFID) readers and an LCD screen for the connected parking scenario.

The mobile app for the connected home was also equipped with a security feature. This is an added user experience as the app notifies the user if motion is detected inside the home

while the system is in “away” mode. On the other hand, the mobile app for the connected parking makes it easier for the user to search for and reserve parking slots.

With the mobile app, it can easily track available parking spaces around the area and do mobile payments when leaving.

“We want to ensure that Globe Telecom can open ways to onboard new connected things

See globe, page10

FAO Representative in the Philippines José Luis Fernández and Senator Cynthia Villar mark the launch of the FAO Legislative Advisory Group-Philippines (FLAG-PH) with a symbolic exchange of tokens on 17 January 2018 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.

They were joined by (L-R): Aristeo Portugal (FAO Strategic Adviser), Michael Planas (FAO Parliamentary Expert), Kaori Abe (FAO Regional Programme Officer for Partnership and Resource Mobilization), Tamara Palis-Duran (Assistant FAO Representative for Programme), Senator Sonny Angara, Representative Bernadette Herrera-Dy, Tala Maralit (Chief Legislative Officer-Office of Senator Loren Legarda), Representative Peter Calderon and Representative Deogracias Victor Savellano. (Credit: ©FAO/Jaclyn Grey)

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Suspected measles claims 11 lives in Davao

D

By Armando Fenequito, Jr.

AVAO CIT Y -Suspected measles in Davao City has already claimed 11 lives as of January, the City Health Office (CHO) reported.

Based on November 7 to January 23 report of the Department of Health (DoH) 1I Epidemiology

and Sur veillance Unit, CHO chief Dr. Josephine Villafuerte said the diagnosis of those who died was suspected measles.

But she said the blood samples of the 11 cases were already sent to Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in

Metro Manila for validation and confirmation.

“We are still waiting for the results,” she said.

For the period reported, Villafuerte said the city recorded 252 cases of which 16 were confirmed of the disease.

In the report from Nov. 7 to 30, 2017, Villafuerte said there were 23 people

with suspected measles.

The number rapidly increased to 140 from December 3 to 31, 2017.

From January 4 to 13 this year, CHO recorded 42 cases and rose to 47 from January 14 to 23.

She said that with the alarming record, the CHO immediately conducted Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) especially to the children in different barangays across the city.

DOH 11 is assisting the CHO in terms of logistics and the vaccine supply that will be injected to children.

On Monday night, Villafuerte declared a measles outbreak in the city. She said that with the number of deaths it is enough for her part to declare measles outbreak in the city.

“One case of measles could lead to an outbreak.

Most especially, if the immunity is low because the coverage of immunization is also low,” she said.

She explained that the measles virus will immediately spread and anyone could be infected especially those people who have low immune system. (Armando Fenequito Jr/PNA)

Davao City scouts for economic zone sites

By Digna Banzon

Three NPA rebels and a CAFGU member killed during a clash in Makilala, North Cotabato from midnight until dawn Monday (22 January 2018) are brought to a funeral house inside body bags. mindanews photo by ferdinandh cabrera

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City government is scouting for a property where it could establish a governmentowned economic zone with direct access to port and airports.

City Planning Chief Ivan Cortez admitted that land consolidation for an economic zone of at least 20 hectares is a big challenge to the city government.

Usually ecozones should be between 40 to 100 hectares, he said.

“Given that the city does

not have big tracts of land near the sea, this initiative should fully involve the private sector to move it (ecozone plan) forward,” he said.

Davao City Investment and Promotion Center (DCIPC) head Lemuel Ortonio said the establishment of an ecozone is one the priorities of the city.

Ortonio said the city is in talks with private land owners in the northern part of the city where ports, See economic, page 11

DOH monitors 132 persons given Dengvaxia shots in Davao DAVAO C I T Y - - T h e Depar tment of Health (D OH) regional office here continues to monitor the 132 persons in Davao Region who received Deng vaxia vaccine from private medical practitioners.

DOH Assistant Secretary Abdullah Dumama Jr. said these people being monitored are children and adu lts w ho opte d to be vaccinated in the private clinics. These are people who were reported to his office by the public practitioners, Dumama said.

"In fact, there are individuals who are more than 45 years old already," he said. He said some of them had dengue before they were given Dengvaxia shots.

"We cannot say that these people did not experience dengue because

I noticed someone who took the vaccine but still infected with Dengue," he said.

Dumama said some of them also did not complete the three-phase injection of the vaccine.

"These 132 were given Deng vaxia at different times, some were given only once, twice but I did not notice someone completed it," he said.

According to Dumama, these people are closely monitored by their private physicians to check on their condition. The DOH , through its Dengvaxia Help Desk, continues to cater these people in case problems will occur.

"If you know someone who is vaccinated but never experienced Dengue, you can report that to our help desk for them to be included in our list," he said.

The private doctors have been asked to immediately report problems for immediate intervention. So far, Dumama said DoH 11 did not receive complaints being lodged to their office.

At the national level, the government through the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) is looking into 14 cases of death linked to Dengvaxia dengue vaccine.

A UP-PGH panel was formed to validate independently allegations of death due to Dengvaxia, which had been administered to more than 830,000 public s cho ol children under the government’s Immunization Program.

Davao Region was not among the pilot areas for the program. (Armando Fenequito Jr/PNA)

An Army EOD team gather pieces of evidence after a twin explosion that took place early Friday morning (19 January 2018) in Barangay Semba, Datu Odin Sinsuat. The explosion is only a few meters away from the 6th Infantry Division’s training school. Authorities are still investigating if the bomb attack was meant to hit soldiers. mindanews photo by ferdinandh cabrera

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Economic... from page 8

airports, and industrial companies are located.

These property owners, Ortonio said, knew of the city’s plan because they were present during the Davao team’s business mission in Manila last year.

“The government here has potential areas for agritourism ecozone but none in the area very near the seaport and airport except privately owned lands,” he said.

Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) president Arturo Milan said if government is serious in promoting investments it should have its own economic zone at a very strategic location.

He said, “In the region, we already have in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and in Panabo, Davao del Norte but none yet in Davao City.”

“The ecozone is really a magnet to the investors because there is a clear offering for them on where to locate,” he said. He said the first thing the investor would like to see when they come is the location where they could readily establish their investment which is equipped with package of services. And this is what we are trying to push,” he said.

Milan said DCCCII can only organize and bring investors here for them to see the opportunities but the business group would like government to put in the necessary tools like an area for an economic zone.

He mentioned a Chinese group of investors who wanted a thousand hectares for the ecozone for manufacturing to relocate their plants outside of their current location due to high labor cost.

Milan is hopeful that after a presentation recently of Chair Charito Plaza of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) at the Davao City Council, city officials are now aware on the need and the importance to have an ecozone.

“I guess this is a good start and keep the ball rolling,” he added.

Vice Mayor Bernard Alag has directed Councilor

Sat-Sun, January 27-28, 2018

Jimmy Dureza to head the committee to look into this concern.

Initially, Al-ag said the city would need some 25 hectares although the city has potential areas in Marilog but for agri-forestry and tourism ecozone.

He said Bunawan district would be an ideal place industrial ecozone.

On the other hand, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) assistant secretary Romeo Montenegro said MinDA looks at Mindanao towards one direction also of identifying agri ecozones.

He said there are available specific locations along the areas of Mindanao development corridors where there is the value of promoting agri-ecozones particularly directed on specific commodities.

These areas are provided with support such as infrastructure and logistics made available on the site.

Montenegro said MinDA always looks at the entire value chain from production to market centers to the export gateways as part of the entire chain of developing commodities in designated areas.

“We continue to move across urban centers in Mindanao where Davao City and the Davao Region is a frontline,” he added. (Digna D. Banzon/PNA)

SEDA... from page 2

well-furnished rooms. The Love Lockdown Valentine’s Day promo will run from February 13 to 18, 2018.

Enjoy these special rates when you decide to experience Seda’s Valentine love lockdown: Deluxe Room – Php5,000 nett Club Room – Php6,000 nett Premier Room – Php7,000 nett Book a Premier Room and enjoy a more spacious, well-furnished, and comfortable room. In addition, you will also have exclusive access to The Club Room.

The Club Room at the ____ floor is a VIP lounge perfect for enjoying a quiet meal (breakfast) or coffee, tea, and cocktails.

Flavors of Fortune: A Special Chinese New Year Dinner Buffet On Friday, February 16, welcome the Year of the Dog at Seda with the Flavors of Fortune. This special Chinese New Year dinner buffet is guaranteed to get you in a festive mood.

The buffet will be from 6pm to 10pm at Misto.

This Chinese New Year treat is worth Php888 nett per person; perfect for a sumptuous celebration for you and your loved one.

If you go there early, you can witness the lion dance at 7pm at the 4th floor lobby.

It’s one of the best ways to celebrate the start of the Year of the Dog. For more information about S eda’s Febr uar y romance and fortune treats, call 088-323 8888 or 0917577 5910. You may also send an email to cdo@sedahotels. com.

See you at Seda!

SSS... from page 5

ment Loan, the applicant must not more than 60 years old and with at least 24 monthly contributions, of which three contributions are within the last 12-month period prior to the month of filing.

“According to NDRRMC reports, over 22,000 houses in Eastern Visayas and CARAGA Regions were partially and totally damaged.

SSS members can borrow a maximum of P1 million with a low interest rate of six percent per annum fixed for 15 years to adequately finance their house repairs and gradually repay their monthly amortizations,” Dooc explained.

Meanwhile, pensioners applying for the threemonth advance pension whose present address is different from the address in the SSS database will have to present a barangay certification attesting to their residency in a NDRRMCdeclared calamity area.

The pension fund has identified about 118,000 potential pensioners with an average monthly pension of P5,324 in declared calamity areas, who may avail the three-month advance pension.

Filing of application for

CLAP and three-month advance pension is until April 23, 2018 while Direct House Repair and Improvement Loan application is until January 23, 2019.

Sales... from page 5

to increase its inventory to a total of 610 rooms in four years. All CLI hotel projects are located within company-developed mixeduse communities. The 180room “lyf Cebu City” by Ascott targeting millennial travelers and the 250-room Citadines Riverside Davao were launched in late 2017.

They will complement Citadines Cebu City set for completion in 2018. More hotel projects are expected to break ground in 2018.

Cebu Landmasters is confident it will gain even greater momentum this year. The company has targeted reservations sales to hit P7 billion this2018, a massive 52-percent hike from the previous year, as it starts more projects and expands to more territories in Visayas-Mindanao growth centers.

The array of new developments planned for the year include 10 in Cebu (two residential subdivisions, three residential condominiums, three offices, one hotel and one industrial park).

Details of these projects will be revealed in the coming months.

CLI has also set its sights on two new territories in the Visayas. Bacolod will play host to two residential condominiums and a hotel, while a residential condo is planned for neighboring Iloilo. Reports from the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) show that the Visayas region will zoom ahead of other regions in the next five years and is expected to outpace the projected 7 to 8 percent growth for the Philippines.

The listed property developer also plans to fortify its foothold in Mindanao where it will launch two residential subdivisions and one residential condominium in Cagayan de Oro while a central business district and two residential condominiums will be unveiled in Davao. NEDA reports that in terms of economic

growth, Davao ranks third among 18 regions in the country.

The upcoming projects boost CLI’s total number of projects to 66 from 46 last year, as it continues to strengthen its brand in its niche markets. The company’s residential condominiums are mostly designed for the mid-market segment, although it also offers condos for the highend market.

“In 2018, we will continue to expand our footprint in the Visayas and Mindanao, and develop projects that respond to the growing market in these areas,” said Soberano who is confident CLI will meet its performance targets set for the year and beyond.

It expects that hikes in household income resulting

9

from the newly approved package 1 of the Duterte government’s Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) will be channeled to housing.

Studies (TUCP, 2010) have also shown that around 2 to 2.1 percent of OFW remittances are channeled to housing. Total remittances in 2017 were seen to hit US$33 billion (World Bank, 2017). This means that at least US$693 million or about P35 billion would be used for shelter requirements.

CLI also expects that government spending in infrastructure will unlock land values outside Metro Manila and stimulate business in the countryside as the Duterte administration pushes for investments outside of the country’s capital.

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Sat-Sun, January 27-28, 2018

Seek God Without Any Hesitation The Gospel of Jesus Christ (January 26, 2018-Friday) Thou gave me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath “anointed” my feet with ointment.

Wherefore I say unto thee, her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved

Business... from page 6

in all categories of fresh food due to the increased popularity of such products; while health forums and modern retail channels are the main reasons for the growth of products, it said.

“Identifying the demand for them especially in the Tier I and Tier II cities, retailers try to stock such products seasonally by importing from other countries,” it noted.

Fruits such as avocado, kiwis, strawberries, and dragon fruit, as well as fish and seafood such as lobsters and shrimps, vegetables like broccoli and olives are some of the many fresh food items that are highly demanded due to their taste and health benefits.

The government of India has launched several initiatives to support production of fresh food and increasing consumer awareness by

much: but to whom little is forgiven, [the same] loved little. In Romans 3:10-as it is written, There is none “righteous,” no, not one.

But despite of this truth, God forgives always. In Jeremiah 31:3-the LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying], Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving kindness have

I drawn thee: Take note, James 2:13”for he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiced against judgment. This is my conviction that all people will be saved at the end if they will come back to God without hesitation. God is never tired in seeking you to be with Him eternally. Jesus

was in the place where the sinners approached him and it was not an accident but God’s ways to meet the sinners. Jesus made the first move to meet the sickly people in all aspects.

Jesus made the house of the Pharisee as the avenue to let this woman came to him for repentance. This woman anointed Jesus with oil as a symbol of Jesus

importance to her life. The oil she used was expensive but it was nothing for this woman because she gave it to Jesus. Give something to God even how expensive it is for you. The value of the thing that you give is a reflection of the disposition of your heart. The most precious thing that you can offer to God is your own life.

educating consumers about fresh food.

The report said this is expected to support the forecast performance for fresh food in India.

“Continued support from the government and private players, by taking steps to produce such commodities in India or through importing them due to lack of suitable climatic conditions will enhance the sales of such products locally. This will drive the growth of fresh food and increase the consumption share of such products amongst consumers,” it added.

to excel in both industries.

He said this was “aligned with what the President intends to achieve in this visit – to strengthen the trade on pharmaceuticals to ensure that the Filipinos will have better, easier access to affordable quality drugs.”

Lopez said there were even discussions to create a working group to develop a plan that would strengthen the two countries’ trade and investment partnership on pharmaceutics. The group was given two months to provide a report.

Meanwhile, Secretary Roque reported that the recently concluded bilateral meeting between President Rodrigo Duterte and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi fostered a shared commitment to expand the two countries’ ties particularly on business and security.

“The two heads of states agreed that relations, while already very good, will even be better and that there will be further bilateral negotiations on issues involving trade and even military cooperation in the next two months,” Roque said.

Calderon (Vice-Chairperson - Global World Trade Organization Committee), Representative Bernadette Herrera-Dy (Chairperson of House of Representatives Public Information Committee, for Gender Representation), and representatives from the offices of Senator Loren Legarda (Chairperson, Senate Climate Change Committee) and Representative Ronald Cosalan (Senior Vice Chairperson of Labor, Indigenous Peoples Representation Committees).

FLAG-PH will also work with other stakeholders from the government and private sectors, such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Trade and Industry, local provincial and municipal gover nments, C limate Change Commission, farmers, fisherfolk, food manufacturers, traders/retailers and consumer groups.

FAO Parliamentary Alliance At the global level, the FAO Parliamentary Alliance started in 2009, recognizing the need for reinforcing constitutional and legislative provisions to ensure that everyone has a right to adequate, safe, sufficient and nutritious food and

to freedom from hunger.

Since the establishment of the Parliamentary Front against Hunger in Latin America and the Caribbean, four framework laws have been produced and more than 20 laws relating to food and nutrition security have been enacted.

Pledges... from page 6

energy, tourism, medical wellness and business processing management.

Lopez said the Philippine government primarily wanted to prioritize pharmaceutics and business outsourcing as areas of cooperation with India, since the country is known

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Alliance... from page 7

son of North Luzon Growth Quadrangle Committee, Senior Vice-Chairperson of Agrarian Reform Committee), Representative Peter

Globe... from page 7

an d app l i c at i ons w it h less integration but, with great impact to our users,” Globe Chief Technology and Information Officer Gil Genio said.

The POC project proposed a standardized set of working APIs to interconne c t dif ferent IoT ecosystems, aiming to br idge gaps i n I o T. T h e s e OA s I S APIs will facilitate the interconnectivity of IoT applications, platforms and connec ted t hings.

It will allow customers’ orders to be processed and billed, and devices to be controlled across platforms. “In terms of c on n e c t e d t h i n g s a n d IoT applications, Globe through Project OAsIS, could provide more options to our users in making the IoT ecosystem an attractive package to other partners, which in turn could lead to a more comprehensive adoption

Bro. Edcel L. Closas

of the technology,” Genio also said.

He explained that even without the award, the entire OAsIS team, l e d by t h e E nt e r p r i s e Architecture Group, and Emerging Technologies under Solutions Delivery D iv is i on , In for mat i on Systems Group, is hoping to le verage on TM Forum’s reach. “The award gives more focus o n t h e i mp o r t a n c e o f st and ard i z i ng A PIs as a building block in IoT, and also acknowledges the vision and effort of the OAsIS team. We’re hoping that this will further motivate the TM Forum community in the adopt ion of t hes e IoT APIs,” Genio added.

He further emphasized that device manufacturers, communications service p r ov i d e r s ( C S Ps ) a n d application developers can e ventually b enef it from the network effect, find ways to expand the IoT as a whole and accelerate the maturity of the market.

The TM Forum Catalyst Aw a r d i s a r ap i d - f i r e innovation project that a l lows telco op erators and solution vendors to participate openly and solve industry challenges.

As a digital ser vice provider, Globe Telecom has always aimed for a digit a l transfor mation t h rou g h t h e p ow e r of technolog y. Earlier this year, Globe Telecom has e n d ors e d TM For u m’s suite of Open APIs. To date, these Open APIs are now being used to enable a range of business scenarios and enable a wide range of revenue growth opportunities for communications service providers (CSPs) and their partners and suppliers.

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Winners...

Closure...

BusinessMirror for Ford ‘Go Further’ Feature.

An esteemed panel of judges for both phases of the 2017 Henry Ford Awards comprised experts in the academe, corporate world, and the motoring industry.

T h e ju d ge s for t h e first phase included distinguished members of t he ac ademe, s ome of whom have been part of the HFA for the past years: Dr. Severino Sar ment a, Jr. (For mer C h ai r, D e p ar t me nt of Communication, Ateneo de Manila University), Dr. Elena Pernia (Dean, College of Mass Communication, University of t he Ph i l ippi n e s D i l i m an ) , D r. C h e r y l l S o r i a n o (Chair, Department of Communication, De La Salle University – Manila), and Ron Castro (Senior Marke t i ng C onsu lt ant and Professor for Brand Activation and Sales & Channel Management, University of Asia and the Pacific).

The second phase of the competition was judged by Mark Brian Nicdao (Country External Relations for Downstream and Internal Communication Manager, Shell Philippines), Marla Alvarez (Regional Manager, Corporate Responsibility & Inclusive Asia Pacific, Thomson Reuters), Raquel Lichauco (C orporate Communications Professional of 30 years), and Lessard.

The special judges for this year’s awards included Jake Verzosa (Professional Lifestyle Photographer), Michael Sicam (Executive Creative Director, Ogilvy & Mather), and Quark Henares (Film and T V Director).

of the Provincial Governor announced this on January 24.

The project contractor, M. Montesclaros Enterprises Inc. had sought the temporary closure as part of their construction procedure.

The firm informed the provincial government about it in a notice letter for temporary road closure on the same day.

Rommel Gaudiel, project engineer said in the letter to Gov. Jose Ma. R. Zubiri Jr. that they will launch and install bridge girders during which their heavy equipment will block the Sayre Highway.

On January 26 (Friday), they will close the bridge from 9p.m. to 11:30p.m.

On January 27 and 28, the bridge will be closed from 12 a.m. to 4a.m. and 9p.m. to 11:30p.m. On January 29, it will be closed from 12a.m. to 4.a.m, if work is not yet finished.

The contractor also assured that emergency vehicles like ambulances, firetrucks, and rescue cars will be given special consideration.

“Rest assured our safety and traffic management personnel will provide necessary assistance in order to alleviate the inconvenience that we may bring,” Gaudiel said in the letter.

But the contractor clarified that within the schedule, they will open the road for traffic every hour to let vehicles pass.

There is no alternative route for this particular portion of the Sayre Highway, Hansel Echavez, head of PAIA said.

The bridge lies below the Mangima Canyon, a scenic spot known for its winding road. (Walter I. Balane/ MindaNews Contributor)

from page 12

Sales... from page 12

high of 2,799 vehicles since its launch. The well received Dies el Turb o 7-seater SUV was strongly and positively accepted by the Philippine Market and has claimed numerous car awards and was proclaimed as the Car of the Year for 2017 by the Car Awards Group, Incorporated.

“On behalf of Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to our customers for continuously making Honda their p r e f e r r e d b r a n d . We are fully committed to continuing our dedication of putting our customers first and in delivering high quality products and ser vices in partnership with our Dealerships. We look forward to serving and satisfying more Filipino Customers this year and making their dreams of owning a Honda come t r u e .” s a i d N o r i y u k i Takakura, President and General Manager of Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.

from page 1

Homicide... from page 1

25, 2015 in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

Calida explained that Aquino has committed criminal negligence for allowing then suspended Purisima to get involved in the “Oplan Exodus.”

Napenas spearheaded the police operation supposedly based on orders of Purisima.

Malaysian bomb expert Zulkifli Abdhir alias “Marwan” was killed in the operation but the shooting alerted the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and Moro Islamic Liberation Front guerrillas, resulting in an 11-hour firefight that killed 44 SAF troopers, 18 MILF fighters and 5 civilians.

The Solicitor General asked the SC to nullify the Ombudsman’s previous decision dismissing the reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide charges against Aquino, Purisima and Napenas.

Roque said last Thursday that President Rodrigo Duterte has promised to

Sat-Sun, January 27-28, 2018 uncover the truth behind the Mamasapano tragedy.

“President R o dr igo Duterte does not wish a repeat of such a waste of lives and promising future of gallant Filipinos,” Roque said in a press statement.

Duterte signed Proclamation No. 164 on Feb. 21, 2017, declaring January 25 as “Day of National Remember” for the 44 elite cops of the Philippine National Police. (PNA)

Review... from page 1

bers.

The ConCom is mandated to “study, conduct consultations, and review the provisions of the 1987 Constitution including but not limited to, the provisions on the structure and powers of the government, local governance, and economic policies” and submit its report, recommendations and proposals to the President in six months.

The ConCom is tasked to finish its work “on or before the lapse of six months from the date it is convened” and ceases to exist “upon the President’s transmittal of the Committee’s recommendations and proposals to Congress.”

Duterte signed the appointment papers on January 24, just before leaving for India, Malacanang announced on January 25.

As Duterte had earlier mentioned, the Consultative Committee will be chaired by former Supreme Court chief justice Reynato Puno.

Pimentel, 84, is a former Senate President, delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention and former Cagayan de Oro City mayor; Canoy, in his 80s, is also a former mayor of Cagayan de Oro City, founder of the Radio Mindanao Network and author of several books on Mindanao, Seven Mindanawons are among 19 appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to compose the Consultative Committee that would review the 1987 Constitution and submit recommendations. Parcaso’s photo by GG Bueno of MindaNews; Pimentel’s is from his website while the rest are from their FB pages The two have been pushing for federalism for at least half a century.

Arellano, 67, is a retired regional state prosecutor, a human rights lawyer under the Marcos dictatorship and a member of the government peace panel that negotiated with the National Democratic Front (NDF) until Duterte called off the peace talks in November last year.

Libarios, 59, is a former Vice Governor of Agusan del Norte, former Representative to Congress and former president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. Libarios was editor in chief of the Philippine Collegian, the campus paper of the University of the Philippines while a student at the College of Law in Diliman.

The three Moro members

are Balindong, Alih and Parcasio.

Balindong, 78, is a Meranaw from Lanao del Sur who served as Representative to Congress where he also served as Deputy Speaker for Mindanao; Alih was chancellor of the Mindanao State University in Tawi-tawi from 1995 to 2010 and management consultant of the Regional Ports Management Authority of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao since October 2012. He founded the Muslim Upliftment Foundation of Tawi-Tawi, Inc. Parcasio, 61, a native of Davao Occidental with Taosug-Maguindanao ancestry, served as Executive Secretary of the ARMM under then Governor Nur Misuari. He chairs the Peace Implementing Panel of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) faction under Misuari and is a member of Lihuk Pideral.

Of the seven Mindanawon appointees, only Alih is not a lawyer.

Aside from Puno and the seven Mindanawons, the other members appointed to the 2018 ConCom are former associate justice Bienvenido Reyes; former Supreme Court justice Antonio Nachura; Julio Cabral Teehankee, Professor and former Dean of the De La Salle University’s College of Liberal Arts; Fr. Ranhilio Aquino, dean of the San Beda College of Law; former Representative of the Cordillera Administrative Region Laurence Wacnang; and Edmund Tayao, executive director of the Local Government Development Foundation.Also named to the ConCom are lawyers Susan Ubalde-Ordinario and Rodolfo Dia Robes, businessman Arthur Aguilar; Virgilio Bautista, former president of the University of Baguio and former Bohol Governor Victor dela Serna.

Set aside differences The appointment of the 19 ConCom members came hours before Senate President Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, as well as Majority leaders Senator Tito Sotto and Rep. Rodolo Farinas met and agreed to “momentarily set aside their differences and focus instead on a comprehensive consultative review of the 1987 Constitution and the finalization of specific constitutional amendments or revisions that will be proposed and presented to the people,” a press release from Pimentel’s office said.

“We have decided to focus on the revisions that have to be made rather than how these changes will be effected,” Pimentel said, adding the differing legal views on how to amend the Constitution “should not distract us from the crux of this exercise: to make revisions to the charter that will help improve our people’s lives.”

The House of Representatives last week passed a resolution to convene into

a Constituent Assembly to amend the 1987 Constitution and maintained the voting should be jointly.

The Senate, on the other hands said voting should be done separately.

The House Committee on Constitutional Amendments in its hearing on January 16 presented its proposed shift to federalism which would include calling off the 2019 mid-term elections and extending the terms of office of members of Congress and local elective officials until June 30, 2022.

On January 17, at the hearing of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments, resource persons, among them Puno and Pimentel, said the preferred mode of amending the Constitution is through a Constitutional Convention, and in the case of a Constituent Assembly, voting should be done separately. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

Survive... from page 4

eyes? What really counted for me? Ano ang mahalaga?

Paniniwala? Pag-asa? O kaya pagbibigayan at pagtutulungan? +++ Email: doringklaus@ gmail.com or follow me in Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot. com or www.klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com.

Federalism... from page 4

oligarchy and the traditional politicians out to maintain the status quo.

Pre s i d e nt D ute r te’s election campaign with Federalism as one of the major flagship programs, was attractive to the electorate. The intricacies of Federalism as a system is not much understood but the slogan capturing the idea of freedom from the clutches of “imperial manila” struck the right chord. Although its impetus was the demand for the Mindanawnons to extricate themselves from the political and economic dominance by the center, this is also true for the Visayas, the Bicolanos and even the Tagalogs; provinces, islands and areas in the periphery of the epicenter of the political universe – in Metro-Manila.

What has been left out in the debate today is the more important issues of how Federalism can bring about a better life to the citizenry. In short, what’s in it for them! This column will not go into the specifics of the issues. Please refer to my Manila Times articles (Oct 27 & Nov 3, 2016 on Social Market Economy).

What is urgently needed now is the full attention of DU30 and compose the 25-man Consultative Commission (ConCom) that will help guide him on a clear path toward Federalism.

This band of experts will provide the president the arguments to steer the de-

11

bate towards the advantages of a shift from the Unitary system we have now to a Federal-Parliamentary government. But more importantly, the bureaucracy of government needs to be harnessed to elucidate and educate the citizenry how this new paradigm can advance social justice, alleviate poverty and hunger; eliminate corruption; and making their lives better.

This should be the core of the citizen’s education and debate and the Deegong has to reset the mode for the political conversation.

At the same time, he needs to reconcile the steps leading towards Federalism, through a “simple parliamentary unicameral form” (CDP position) or through a so called “semi-presidential or hybrid-parliamentary bicameral system” (PDP Laban)”. Even his own party is ambivalent on the role of the future Senate.

Senator Koko Pimentel, PDP Laban president naturally wants the retention of the Senate, although regionally elected; Speaker Bebot Alvarez, PDP Laban secretary-general opts for a unicameral body, similar to CDP’s position. The President can’t afford discordant voices in his own political party and among his allies.

The outcome from the 25-man ConCom should be the position of DU30 and presented to the constituencies in palatable dishes.

It would be dangerous and self-serving to allow exclusive input by the two houses of Congress in a ConAss. Let’s learn from the lesson of the “Anti-Dynasty” 1987 constitutional provision that couldn’t pass muster, since 1987.

The Senate and House of representative can disregard the Constituent Assembly mode (ConAss) and pass a law for a Constitutional Convention (ConCon) with a twist.

Allow both elective and DU30 appointees to sit in as delegates to revise the 1987 Constitution.

The argument for this is simple: those running for ConCon delegates mostly would be politicians and relatives out to carve out or defend their own political turf. Allow a percentage of presidential appointed experts to the mix. The Concon can thus be created simultaneous with the Baranggay elections

by May 2018. They have a year within which to revise the 1987 Constitution; and

by May of 2019, call for a plebiscite simultaneous with the mid-term elections in May 2019. Those elected will hold office only for a year up to May 2020, when the 1st Parliament is elected and subsequently constituted (or a transitory provision can be written into the new constitution defining the role of those elected in 2019; please refer to Manila Times article, Jan 18, 2018) – The Centrist Proposals).

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

GILBERT Y. CHAO - Motoring Editor

Sat-Sun

motoring January 27-28, 2018

12

Ford Philippines announces winners of 17th Henry Ford Awards

N

ow on its 17th year, the HFA continues to recognize excellence in automotive journalism, honoring the work of the country’s esteemed roster of motoring journalists. This year, the HFA will award winners from 16

categories.

The winners were selected from a total of 210 entries that were submitted by members of the print, online, and broadcast media whose stories, columns, photographs, and videos have collectively taken the Philippine

automotive industry to a whole new level.

“The Henry Ford Awards is our way of giving back and recognizing the hard work and effort that our automotive media give to boost the industry.

We are confident that the winners will serve

as an inspiration to the next generation of automotive journalists with their passion and dedication to their craft,” said Bertrand Lessard, managing director, Ford Philippines.

Winners in the print category include Mariano Jose Tamayo

of Top Gear Philippines for Automotive Print Feature, Patrick Everett Tadeo of Carmudi Magazine Philippines for Automotive Column, Eric Tipan of Carmudi Magazine Philippines for Automotive Print Lifestyle Feature, Jerel Fajardo of C!

Magazine for Published Photograph, and Kristoffer Lim of AutoCar Philippines for Automotive Green Feature.

Bringing home the trophies in the digital categories are Froilan Victor Bacungan, Jr. of CNN Philippines for Automotive Online Feature, PJ Caña of Esquiremag.ph for Automotive Online Lifestyle Feature, Iñigo Roces of AutoIndustriya. com for Automotive Road Safety Feature, Vince Christian Pornelos of AutoIndustriya.com for Smart Technology Feature, Mark Francis Jesalva of TopGear.com. ph for Automotive Video Feature, and Mariano Jose Tamayo of TopGear. com.ph for Automotive Industry Feature.

The Ford special categories winners are the following: Maria Cecilia Carpena of TopGear.com. ph for Ford Automotive Feature, Autodeal.com. ph for Ford Automotive Video Feature, Jerel Fajardo of C! Magazine for Ford Published Photograph, and Ronald Delos Reyes of

See winners, page 11

Monitoring tire pressure Honda record breaking sales performance in 2017 Cars Philippines, for hassle-free driving Honda Inc. (HCPI), Honda’s

Avoid the hassle of running a flat tire with the smart Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). A technology once beyond the reach of consumers due to its prohibitive pricing, Blade Auto Center, the country’s automotive lifestyle store has made this technology affordable and more convenient to use.

The Blade TPMS helps you to monitor the high/ low air pressure of your tires, temperature and detects air leakage from all four tires. “It is easy install and our trained technicians will install it with OEM quality,” explains Albert Go of Blade.

The benefits of installing a TPMS in your sedan, AUV or SUV are flat tire prevention; leakage warning; tire wear due to improper tire pressure and cost effective cmyk

because it will prolong the tire life. “It also the most dependable and affordable TPMS in the local market at just P6, 499.00,”adds Go. The Blade Tire Pressure Monitoring System has been quality tested and approved for use as a safety and accident prevention equipment. It is available in Blade stores in SM, Ayala and Robinsons Malls nationwide.

automobile business unit in the Philippines, is honored to announce that Honda has successfully continued its growth with record breaking sales results for the calendar year of 2017. In 2017, sales recorded 31,758 vehicles, up by 37 percent compared to 2016 with 23,199 vehicles.

Growing faster than the Philippine Automotive industry, Honda’s growth of 37 percent was able to surpass the Total Industry’s growth of 18 percent based on official statements by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA).

And with the successful closing of the year sales last December 2017, Honda was able to beat

its own record by posting the highest sales results of the brand’s history in the Philippines with 4,961 vehicles sold, a 77 percent growth compared to December 2016. The primary contributors to Honda’s strong sales performance were the City, BR-V and Civic.

And the successful launch of the All-New

CR-V further solidified Honda’s growth with its introduction last August 2017.

The City posted a 6 percent growth and remains to be Honda’s best-selling model with 9,430 vehicles released in 2017. The BR-V, 7-seater gasoline SUV, enjoyed a successful first fullyear in the Philippine

Market and was the brand’s second highest selling model with 7,212 vehicles sold. The Civic meanwhile, achieved a record full-year performance with sales of 4,146 rising to 66 percent compared to 2016.

The award-winning All-New CR-V on the other hand recorded a See sales, page 11