Mindanao Daily Set A (March 27, 2017)

MINDANAO DAILY T H E P U RV E YO R O F T R U T H , J U S T I C E , A N D D E V E LO P M E N T

Volume VI, No. 247

Website: www.mindanaodailynews.com

Monday

March 27, 2017

P15.00

Duterte breaks ground rehab site in Bukidnon

By GERRY LEE GORIT Correspondent

MALAYBALAY City--President Rodrigo Duterte led the groundbreaking of proposed P700-million drug rehabilitation center in this city Saturday, as he reiterated his previous tirades against drug lords.

“Leche kayo, I will kill you. If you won’t stop, as long as I’m the president, I will destroy you, whether you like it or not,” Duterte told the crowd of thousands at the Bukidnon Provincial

Capitol grounds in Malaybalay on the culmination of the province’s annual Kaamulan Festival.

He said he doesn’t mind if he goes to prison or rot in hell as long as the he gets rid of the drug trade in the country.

“It would be my honor, I’d be happy if I am killed in the altar of [drugs] in the Philippines. It’s my honor to die for my country,” Duterte said.

After his speech at the culminating ceremony of See site, page 11

Megadams: unuseful, destructive--WPN

DUTERTE IN BUKIDNON. President Rodrigo R. Duterte (second from left) is welcomed by Bukidnon Gover-

nor and Regional Development Council, Region 10 (RDC-10) Chairman Jose Ma. Zubiri along with his son, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri (left). President Duterte, accompanied by Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua (second from right), graces the celebration of the province’s annual Kaamulan Festival and the ground-breaking of the P700-million worth of Mindanao Rehabilitation Center donated by the China-based group Friends of the Philippines Foundation. Photo by Gerry Lee Gorit for Mindanao Daily

Troops rescue abducted skipper

GOVERNMENT troops on Saturday rescued the skipper of the tugboat towing a cargo vessel hijacked by suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits two days ago off Basilan province.

Col. Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, confirmed to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that Aurelio Agacac is now in the custody of the troops after he was rescued at about 5:30 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Basakan in the coastal town of Hadji Mohammad Ajul.

Agacac is the skipper of M/T Tug R9 towing the cargo vessel, Super Shuttle RoRo 9.

“He (Agacac) was rescued. Of course, we are still looking for the other kidnapped victim. Operation continues relentlessly,” Uy said.

See skipper, page 11

IN forums and activities held around international commemoration of people’s action for rivers and against large dams and in pursuit of the right to water, advocates including the Water for the People Network (WPN) called on the public to support the clamor ‘people’s control over water resources and services.’

Government and private sector proponents, including international financial institutions, promote large dams allegedly as a means of providing cheap energy and water supply to poor countries like the Philippines. But many Filipinos still lack access to basic utilities, said WPN. See destructive, page 11

Dads push ‘smoke-free’ C. de Oro

THE city council’s health committee is drafting an ordinance that would make this trading hub in Northern Mindanao “smoke-free,” city councilor Lourdes Gaane said Friday.

Gaane said that the committee tackled the issue last week and the members agreed to incorporate in the ordinance some provisions of the Davao City antismoking ordinance, which includes banning electronic smoking known as “Vape.”

The city’s proposed antismoking ordinance would include the prohibition of the use, sale, distribution and advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products in certain places with corresponding penalties for violators, she said.

Gaane said that the proposed smoke-free ordinance TOURISM BIGWIGS. Chief Operating Officer (COO) Cesar Montano of the Tourism Promotion Board of the Philippines (TPB), Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo, and Department of Tourism Regional Director Marie Elaine was considered in response S. Unchuan for Northern Mindanao enjoy watching some of the initial presentations as the 40th Kaamulan Festival to the recommendation of the city’s legal office, opens in Malaybalay City in the province of Bukidnon on Saturday (March 25, 2017).

Photo by Joe Palabao for Mindanao Daily

See free, page 11

MINDANAO DAILY SECOND FRONTPAGE mark francisco, Section Editor EDITOR: RUEL V. PELONE

Monday

March 27, 2017

2

Duterte’s plan to reset brgy polls draws flak THE proposed postponement of the barangay elections this year would need a valid reason determined thru a proper process, a Church-backed poll watchdog said.

The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) did not make a categorical statement on the matter but said the proposal would need careful study.

PP C RV chai r R e ne Sarmiento said there is no substitute to periodic elections in a democracy to check the accountability of elected officials to get fresh mandate and that includes barangay polls.

“For reasons that are legitimate, I see no reason why barangay elections be not postponed, as was done a number of times in the

JOB INTERVIEW.

Representatives from various firms in Cagayan de Oro City interview graduating students from Cagayan de Oro College-PHINMA during their annual job fair held at the COC-PHINMA campus in Barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City last Friday. Photo by Mark Francisco for Mindanao Daily

See PLAN, page 11

Alvarez backs Duterte plan to appoint barangay officials, scrap polls in October

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez on Friday backed the plan of President Rodrigo Duterte to cancel barangay (village) elections in October and instead appoint barangay officials in a bid to stamp out narcopolitics in the country.

In a radio interview, Alvarez said Duterte’s plan to appoint leaders of House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez (left) and President over 42,000 barangays is possible Rodrigo Duterte (right).

Export remains major growth driver amid protectionism fears

through a legislation amending the Local Government Code without violating the Constitution.

“Well, wala akong problema diyan at suportado ko ang ating Pangulo diyan dahil napaka-valid po noong reason, dahil tama yun, majority of the barangay officials are involved in illegal drugs, nagagamit ito,” Alvarez said in a radio interview.

(“Well, I don’t have any problem with that and I support our President on that matter because the reason is valid. In fact, majority of the barangay officials are involved in illegal drugs”) “Kinakailangan po ng legislation diyan para magbigay ng kapangyarihan sa Comelec na huwag ituloy yung election (A legislation

Despite the dramatic decline in global trade coupled with protectionist forces in advanced global economies, exports will remain a major growth driver for most Asian economies such as the Philippines, according to an economist from the Asian Development bank (ADB).

In a forum organized by state think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies, Ganeshan Wignaraja, advisor at the ADB Office of Chief Economist, dispel speculation that exports slowdown will lead to an end of Asia’s era of export-led growth, saying that this projection is “overdone”.

According to Wignaraja, much of the weak import demands from the advanced economy markets is likely to be temporarily and partially reversed as their recovery gathers momentum. He emphasized that Asian countries can, in fact, lead global trade in years to come. But this, he added, requires a deeper understanding among policymakers about the causes of the export slowdown and the policies that could foster new trading opportunities.

Wignaraja attributed the export slowdown in develFESTIVAL. An elder female lumad is surrounded by her peeroping Asia to three major factors: (1) the weak import KAAMULAN contingents to the annual Kaamulan Festival of the province of Bukidnon during the demand for Asian goods in advanced economy street-dance competition, Saturday (March 25), at the main streets of Malaybalay City.

See fears, page 11

Photo by Gerry Lee Gorit for Mindanao Daily

See backs, page 11

PDRRMO staff who died during training gets assistance MISAMIS Oriental––A training staff of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) who died while conducting training here would receive financial assistance, a PDRRMO official said.

Francisco Dy Jr., head of the PDRRMO in Misamis Oriental, said that the provincial governor has promised financial assistance to the bereaved family of Alan Gaylawan, 52, who died Friday last week while conducting training among PDRRMO members.

Gaylawan, a retired See died, page 10

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

GILBERT Y. CHAO - Motoring Editor

motoring

Monday

March 27, 2017

3

Ford Island Conquest at the 2017 Manila International Auto Show Petron helps you prepare

Ford Philippines will make a third stop for their Ford Island Conquest campaign in the upcoming 2017 Manila International Auto Show that is to be held from March 30 to April 2 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

The Ford Island Conquest venue represents a cross between a scaled-up showroom and a test drive venue with highlights and design twists that will offer the ultimate test drive for the Everest, Ranger and EcoSport. Fun-filled activities are also available for the whole family.

The Everest is engineered for extraordinary, equally suited for a comfortable cruise through the city or to effortlessly take on any terrain. Its bold and stylish design features a quiet, refined

for your summer road trips

interior, smart technologies, exceptional on-road dynamics, and capabilities that include best-in-class ground clearance of 225mm and water-wading up to 800mm.

The Ranger sets the industry benchmark in the pickup truck segment with its unmatched combination of quality, passenger com-

fort, and versatility. With 237mm ground clearance, 800mm water wading, and unsurpassed towing capacity, no flood can intimidate this smart and ‘Built Ford Tough’ truck.

The EcoSport combines the maneuverability, affordability, and fuel economy of a compact car with the practicality and spacious-

ness of an SUV in a contemporary and stylish package. With 200mm ground clearance and best in class water wading capability, the EcoSport’s versatility can take on any urban adventure in style.

For updates on Ford Island Conquest, visit www. facebook.com/fordphilippines.

The summer holiday season is just around the corner, and market leader Petron Corporation can help you get your car ready for those summer road trips. While people invest a lot of time and energy planning their itinerary and arranging hotel bookings, they often forget that reaching their destination and coming home safely is even more important. A visit to your nearest Petron Car Care Center or Petron service station can help make your holiday travels more fun and worry-free.

Petron recommends an oil change if you are planning to go on a long-distance road trip. The engine is the heart of your vehicle, and the right engine oil ensures its efficient operation by reducing engine stress and maintaining engine cleanliness. Petron’s range of world-class engine oils are the best match for its superior fuels with Tri-Action Advantage. For

gasoline engines, Petron Ultron is highly recommended to complement Petron Blaze 100, Petron XCS, and Petron Xtra Advance gasolines. For diesel engines, the best match for Petron Diesel Max and Petron Turbo Diesel fuels are Petron Rev-X diesel engine oils. Because motorcycle engines operate at higher speeds and higher power output, Petron has specially formulated its Petron Sprint 4T motorcycle oils for greater thermal and oxidation stability.

So, whether you are driving a sedan, an SUV, a family van, or taking your motorcycle on your summer road trip, a visit to your favorite Petron service station should be an essential part of your pre-trip preparation. And while you’re there, you can ask your friendly Petron service crew for a Free BLOWBAG Safety Check which covers the Brakes, Lights, Oil, Water, Batteries, Air and Gas check.

4

Monday, March 27, 2017

Opinion

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We live in rapidly changing times, thanks to the technological wonders of internet and social media.

As fast as we can click and send, we can broadcast messages to friends, relatives and to just about anybody, anywhere in the world. This goes without saying, however, that here in the Philippines we are still considered as the digital turtle, and yet the most expensive, among our Asian neighbors.

Then US presidential candidate Barack Obama was among the first world leaders to realize the vast potential of social media as a platform for broadcasting campaign messages. And he won against a less tech savvy opponent by quite a margin.

According to Twitter, Obama was for a long time the record holder of most number of Twitter followers (47 million plus) until he was overtaken by US TV personality Ellen Degeneris.

Following the Obama model, then candidate/ now President Donald Trump likewise tweets daily, earning himself the sobriquet “Commanderin-Tweet.” Most observers, however, are disconcerted

AL JACINTO Regional Editor-WestMin RODRIGO B. SEVILLA Regional Editor-Davao

JOE FELICILDA Editorial Consultant JOE PALABAO Feature Editor

ATTY. MARIO T. JUNI

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by Trump’s brand of twiplomacy.

The Vatican is not to be outdone. Retired Pope Benedict XVI became the very first Pope to use Twitter. Pope Francis I, a relative late-comer, is catching up fast with 14.1 million followers and counting.

Former President Benigno Aquino III is also a regular in Twitter with a reported 3.4 million followers.

President Rody Duterte might not be into it personally. But his staff certainly realize the value of social media in the presidential communication program.

I heard that Presidential C ommunications chief Martin Andanar is thinking of inviting social media bloggers to cover presidential events on a regular basis.

In homes, schools, communities, and just about any place where one has access to a computer, an iPod, or a smart phone, every Juan and Maria of practically all ages are sending and receiving messages via Facebook, twitter, instagram, viber and what have you.

The message is unmistakable. Social media is a very powerful tool for

communication and is with us to stay.

And here is where Uncle Ben’s advice to SpiderMan should always be topof-mind: •With great power comes great responsibility.

This message was reechoed recently by Pope Francis. While acknowledging that “the internet, text messages, social networks and chats are ‘a gift from God” as they can be “fully human forms of communication” the Pontiff cautions that we must “use wisely the means at our disposal”.

The papal caveat arises from the very nature of the technology available.

Messages - true or not - have the potential of going viral in hours, if not in seconds.

“The speed with which information is communicated exceeds our capacity for reflection and judgment, and this does not make for more balanced and proper forms of expression”.

Social media has become a two-edged blade.

On the one hand, it can be used to inform and raise awareness. But it can also be misused for spreading alternative truths and as

Ignacio Bunye weapons for maligning, defrauding and even harming others.

The cloak of anonymity afforded by social media has given rise to armies of troll who operate to disrupt, disturb discussions, to bash or just simply to annoy.

Wittingly or unwittingly, careless social media participants give out personal information which expose them to identity theft, financial scams, blackmail, sexual exploitation and security threats.

Because of the foregoing, do we need to give up Facebook and Twitter?

Not at all. As long as we do not become prisoners in our virtual reality. And also for as long as we follow the common-sense advice of practising responsibility in the web: Think before you tweet.

Think some more before you re-tweet, share or forward any message.

••• Note: You may email us at totingbunye2000@ gmail.com. You may also “like” us on Facebook at “Speaking Out.”

Kakampi Mo Ang Batas

Heat wave can be defeated

PAT SAMONTE CHRIS PANGANIBAN Regional Editor Caraga Regional Editor-Davao LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS:

Rene Michael BaÑos uRIEL C. QUILINGUING Regional Editor Northmin Contributing Editor

Opportunities and threats in social media

“…God is not man that he should lie, nor a human being that he should change his mind…” (Numbers 23:19, the Holy Bible).

-oooHEAT WAVE CAN BE DEFEATED: My Facebook friend, Caesar Sing, sent me a private message about the very hot temperatures we are experiencing once again, which can cause heat strokes or other ailments. For the benefit of everyone, I am reprinting here a column I wrote on April 12, 2013. Let us read that column again: “ Is there anything Filipinos can do about this heat wave if and when it finally strikes? Or, better yet, is there anything that Filipinos can do to prevent any heat wavefrom victimizing them and the entire country? Impossible as it may sound, the answer is yes, there is something concrete that we can all do to minimize, if not altogether avoid, the occurrence of the dreaded heat wave.

“What is this that we can concretely do about the coming heat wave? It

is listening to God and obeying His commands.

For Christians, it means reading the Bible and following the commands written in its pages.

-oooLINK BETWEEN HEAT WAVES AND THE BIBLE: “For, whether we like to admit it or not, a heat wave has very strong spiritual and Biblical dimensions, at least among Christians.

In at least two passages or verses of the Bible, a heat wave is prophesied to happen, as a consequence of people no longer listening to God---which means, no longer reading the Bible, and of people no longer obeying His commands.

“The first of these two passages is found in Deuteronomy 28:15 and 22.

These parts of the Bible read: “However, if you no longer listen to God and no longer obey Him, all of these curses will come upon you… The Lord will send you… scorching heat and severe drought…”

“The second passage is found in Deuteronomy 28:15 and 23, which reads: `The sky over your head will be fiery and the soil

you step on will be as hard as iron due to lack of water… Dust, instead of water, will come down from the heavens… They will all come to you until you are destroyed…”

-oooH E A T WAV E I S C AU S E D B Y M A N ’ S TURNING AWAY FROM GOD: “A careful reading of these verses by the Anak ng Diyos Kadugo Ni Kristo (AND KNK, or the Children of God Blood Kin of the Christ) Church will show us that a heat wave---scorching heat and severe drought---is attributed by the Prophet Moses to just two things--people no longer listening to God, which means they no longer read the Bible, they no longer attend mass or any other praise and worship activities, and they no longer obey His commands.

“But, what really does failure to read the Bible and obey God’s commands have got to do with a heat wave, or scorching heat and severe drought, or even with global warming and climate change?

“A lot, if you ask me,

Atty. Batas Mauricio

and it will take several columns to explain the relationship between these natural phenomenon and the failure to lead a spiritual life anchored on the Bible and God’s commands.

And if that is what God is saying, who are we to question, much less doubt, what He said? As Numbers 23:19 is saying, “God is not man that he should lie, nor a human being that he should change his mind…”

-oooWATCH “ANG TANGING DAAN”, “KAKAMPI MO ANG BATAS”, AT FB LIVE: Please watch “Ang Tanging Daan”, a roundthe-clock Bible Exposition and prayer session at www. facebook.com/angtangingdaan, and to “Kakampi Mo Ang Batas”, a legal counseling and news commentary program at www.facebook. com/kakampimoangbatas.

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

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FOR ADS PLACEMENT CALL OR TEXT: 0917-712-1424 • 0947-893-5776 E-mail: mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com Editor: Ruel V. Pelone

Monday, March 27, 2017

5

Leyte tells the world: ‘Break Free from fossil fuels, Haiyan should never happen again’ CITIZENS of Leyte converged Saturday at the iconic San Juanico Bridge to send a message to the world: “Unite against climate change and never let anything like Haiyan happen again.”

A giant banner was unfurled at the middle of the bridge bearing the words “#BreakFree from fossil fuels,” as a team of cyclists overhead and a team of rowers below led this culminating activity for the weeklong Leyte leg of Break Free 2017, a series of peaceful community mobilizations across the Philippines contributing to the second wave

of global actions against fossil fuels.

“We should continue to build awareness, to mainstream talks and initiatives about climate change, particularly advocating how important the role of every community member is, whatever sector that individual may belong to,” said Ronan Christian M. Reposar, Vice Mayor of Palo, Leyte.

The multi-sectoral assemblage reiterates that, though climate change may be something that people in other parts of the world still need to argue about and

prepare for in their future, climate impacts are already something that Filipinos experience each year.

Residents of Leyte reckon it lost more than 10,000 souls in November 2013 during Typhoon Haiyan (locally, ‘Yolanda’), an extreme weather event, with millions more who are up to now affected, not just financially and psychologically, but in myriad ways. “ The big fossil fuel companies should heed the people of Leyte, who are leading the call for climate justice and an end See break free, page 10

#BreakFree.

Climate and faith activists hold candlelight vigil in Manila to usherin the kickoff of #BreakFree2016 week of global actions, with a demand for the cancellation of all plans, permits and construction of coal-fired power plants in Batangas and the rest of the country. Greenpeace file photo

The Striker

The striking force

I CAN predict martial law will be declared, in a few weeks or days, to solve all problems in the country.

President Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte hinted in his recent pronouncement on the issue.

If it is going to be the Marcos style of Martial law, it will really be bad. If it is the Duterte brand--your guess is as good as mine.

Many will be suspected of drug addictions, especially those who criticize the government. And once you are a suspect you are within the target range of the police.

Secretary Wanda Teo of the Department of Tourism (DOT) just made a great mistake when she advised the media to tone down on extrajudicial killings because they found it hard to sell the country to tourists.

The Madam maybe right in all respects, but telling us what to write, especially lying or twisting facts about the 8,000 people killed in the drug war is definitely wrong. It is unacceptable and no member of the media will ever accede to her order.

The objective of journalism is to inform the public about the things around us, in truth and in fact, bereft

of fabrication and lies and we stand by our words until the day we die. Journalism is truth. Lady, your order is tantamount to curtailment of press freedom. I suggest you tell your Boss, President Duterte to tone down the daily murders of poor victims via his power and the police. This thing shocked the world.

It seems that is not safe anymore to criticize or utter the truth in our country. One can be accused of destabilizing the leadership of President Duterte. Vice President Leni Robredo, who said something about the state of affairs in the country before the UN, is now in hot water and according to them is impeachable. If we don’t have VP Leni Robredo in the system, we lose the democratic procedure of check and balance. If this system is not communism, then there must be a better word for it.

••• Corruption in the government service has slowed down as the perpetrators showed fears getting killed by President Duterte through hanging.

The big time “kicbackers” in sensitive government offices are still alive, kicking and laughing. It is easy to detect them though--just search for their huge real and personal properties, some of which are in the names of relatives, then comparing them with their legal income and presto; they could go straight to jail via the courts without much trouble.

••• Peace in the county remains an elusive dream as fightings rage in many places in the country. In Compostela Valley, at least four NPA rebels were killed in an encounter with the military. In Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, the NPA rebels attacked an Army outpost.

The smokes of gun fires dominate the skies in some parts of Luzon as fighting is going on. Fierce combat in Lanao is regularly happening between the soldiers and the Maute group.

••• Just came in: NPA rebels occupied a barangay in North Cotabato and forced residents, at gunpoint, to leave. I thought all the time the NPAs are fighting for the

My Legacy Shines Brighter

Ben Emata Jr.

welfare of the people. So it is fighting the unarmed people for their own benefits.

••• Barangay elections are, pure and simple, way of wasting time and government funds. They should be appointed and let them do their jobs well under the guidance of the higher ups or the mayor and city or municipal council. We save millions of pesos in the voting process alone, not to mention the candidates, some of them, had to buy votes, ••• President Duterte should not trust so much the communist China’s promise not to build structures in the disputed seas within our territory. China is champion in bullying and we might be caught sleeping if we trust it fully, Once China is in our soil out we go. We should not trust even the shadows of strangers. (Bennex News Service)

ONE of the things that a college mentor cherishes most is to see how his or her mentee shine. Rymer Gengoni, my former student and member of the Hebron Artist art club which I founded in Iloilo, is at the top among them--perhaps my greatest legacy.

He humbly started as a BS advertising student at my former university.

When he joined Hebron, I already sensed his talent and supported his artistic pursuit. I recall his aggressiveness in levelling up with mature artists: every time I announced that there would be a group exhibit

by Hebron members at a reputable venue, he used to show readiness. While still a student, Gengoni earned awards as he strove in one competition after another to test his sleight of hand in visual arts. I behold his current milestones.

Rymer Gengoni is now an accomplished currency and medal designer of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

He notably made distinc-

Lucell Larawan

tions in art—three-time semi-finalist in the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence for two sculptures and one painting, honorable mention in sculpture from Shell National Student Art competition and a finalist in the International Year of Rice 2004 National Postage Stamps Design Contest sponsored by the United Nations Information Centre in the Philippines. He is recipient of Most Outstanding Guimbalanon in Visual Arts 2006 and Outstanding Artist of the Year from Central Philippine University.

Among the magnum opuses that Rymer did See legacy, page 10

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

GILBERT Y. CHAO - Motoring Editor

motoring

Monday

March 27, 2017

6

For the long haul – Suzuki Super Carry

B

uilt to endure the toughest of conditions, the alll-new Suzuki Super Carry is equipped with strength, high quality performance, superior loading capacity and a Euro-4 certified Diesel engine, Super Carry is really meant to serve as a perfect fit for any kind of business’ requirements in a manner that truly cares for the environment.

Offering superior loading capacity with an area of 3.25 sqm and a maximum capacity of 735 kg, Super Carry is equipped with a light steering wheel and a low turning radius of 4.3M which allows effortless driving no matter how heavy the cargo is and ensures easy maneuverability even in tight areas.

It features latest automotive technologies – the 793cc, 2-cylinder and DDis Euro-4 diesel engine with 5 speed manual transmission, and a peak power of 32 HP @ 3,500 RPM

and torque of 75 NM @ 2,000 RPM – making the vehicle more cost efficient and ecofriendly than others of the same caliber. It consumes a mere liter of diesel for an average distance of 22.07 km which makes going around for errands less costly and more practical.

The new engine is also equipped with an Engine Control Module or ECM that monitors its condition during servicing and ensures continuous peak performance. It complies to the latest regulations on emissions standards and exhibits lower emissions than Euro-2 engines at 68 percent less particulate matter emissions, 57 percent less nitrogen oxides emissions, and 50 percent less carbon monoxide emissions, for a more environment-friendly driving.

The designers of the Super Carry gave careful thought to the comfort and convenience of the driver and pas-

sengers and enhanced both via the vehicle’s spacious interior and cabin features. With the driver seat adjustable up to 90mm coupled with the extended portion

of the passenger seat, there is enough legroom and space for the driver to lie down and combat fatigue in between long drives.

The cabin also features numerous cubbyholes, trays, pockets and storage spaces for documents, food items and other necessities.

Underneath the seats are thick glass fiber heat shields for better insulation. The bulb/ balloon type weather strip in the Super Carry also lessens noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

To add to the driving comfort, its pedals, gear shift knob and instrument panels are all ergonomically positioned.

The vehicle’s rear window is also bigger and can readily be opened with an ergonomically

placed locking mechanism. This allows a large amount of air to flow inside the cabin when needed.

Fitted with theft prevention measures, Super Carry features a lock-on fuel tank cap, a secured spare tire mounting bracket, and battery with provision of lock. Inside the cabin, the seats are equipped with a 3-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelt.

The Super Carry ensures superior braking performance via a front ventilated disk brake for better heat dissipation, plus drum brakes on the rear featuring Load Sensing Proportioning Valves (LSPV) for stabilized braking in different load conditions.

Sealing the deal are the high tensile and

galvanized chassis materials used in the Super Carry. The galvanized materials provide more resistance to rust while high tensile materials limit intrusion inside the cabin. Its integrated sheet metal body front panel enhances body quality and rigidity, as well as, ensures the driver’s safety. This is complemented up front with a bigger windscreen for better driver visibility.

The Super Carry has a 1 Din Audio Unit with Built-In speaker featuring AM/FM Tuning, USB/SD Interface, Auxiliary input and LCD display will make driving the Super Carry more enjoyable.

To know more about the Super Carry and its variants, visit www. suzuki.com.ph.

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Monday, March 27, 2017

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8

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Monday, March 27, 2017

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P44.9M DAR irrigation project to boost SurSur farmers income

By JOIE CEBALLOS

TAGBINA, Surigao del Sur The Department of Agrarian Reform-13 handed a P49.9million Tagbina Communal Irrigation Project (CIP) to the Ugbian-Nyholm Farmers Irrigators Association, Inc. in a turn-over ceremony held March 21, 2017 in Tagbina town here.

DAR-13 Regional Director Engr. Felix Aguhob and National Irrigation Administration (NIA)-13 Acting Regional Manager Engr.

Constancio Bana-ay, Jr. led the ribbon-cutting prior to the turn-over.

Aguhob said that the provision of the irrigation facility is part of the DAR’s

commitment to provide genuine and quality agrarian reform services. “We stand by our commitment to help improve the lives of our farmers,” he added.

The Tagbina CIP, a project funded under the DAR’s Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP)-III and implemented by NIA, will serve 200 hectares of agricultural land. The project includes construction of one unit dam, 4.9 kms. of concrete lined main canals, 31 units canal structures, and 45 units of farm level facilities.

Tagbina OIC-Mayor Antonio Adlao said the irrigation facility See income, page 10

DAR-13 Regional Director Felix Aguhob (6th from left) and to his left, NIA-13 Acting Regional Director Constancio Bana-ay, Jr., lead the ribbon-cutting rite for the P44.9M Tagbina Communal Irrigation Project under the DAR-Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project III on March 21, 2017 in Ugoban, Tagbina town, Surigao del Sur. Also in photo are (from right to left) Surigao Sur PARPO II Benjamin Mataksil, Division Manager Engr. Ferdinand Amon, Irrigation Association President Leopoldo Etabag, Ugoban Barangay Captain German Peñalosa, Sr., village officials and DAR personnel. The project will serve 200 hectares affecting some 90 farmers. Photo courtesy of Joie Ceballos

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9

CEB 2016 earnings double The Philippines’ leading carrier, Cebu Pacific Air (PSE: CEB) posted a net income of PHP9.8 Billion in 2016, up 122% year-on-year, on the back of the strong demand for low-cost air travel and robust growth in ancillary revenues, which include baggage fees, on-board meals and merchandise.

Total revenues, which include CEB cargo services and whollyowned subsidiary Cebgo, jumped 9.6% to PHP61.9 Billion, as passenger revenues surged 9.2% to PHP46.6 Billion.

For the full year, CEB flew 19.1 Million passengers, up 4.1% versus the 18.4 Million passengers carried in 2015.

“2016 was a great year for CEB as we continue to enable everyJuan to fly to more destinations around the Philippines and to key destinations in Asia, the Middle East, Australia and the US. CEB remains committed to further increase inter-island connectivity within the Philippines to promote trade and tourism and help more people

connect with their families and friends all around the world, while consistently providing our trademark best

value fares,” said Atty JR Mantaring, Vice President for Corporate Affairs of Cebu Pacific.

In 2016, Cebu Pa-

cific flew to 36 domestic and 30 international destinations through 102 routes and more than 2,820 flights

weekly. CEB boosted its intra-regional network in the Visayas with flights from Cebu to Ormoc, Roxas and

ABOITIZPOWER GEOTHERMAL PROJECT BOND IS 2016 BOND DEAL OF THE YEAR. The project bond issued for the Tiwi-MakBan (Makiling-Banahaw) Geothermal Energy Project of AboitizPower subsidiary AP Renewables, Inc. (APRI) bagged the 2016 Bond Deal of the Year of the prestigious PFI magazine of Thomson Reuters. The P12.5-billion local currency, multi-tranche bond issuance, backed by the ADB, was the first green bond issuance in Asia and the Pacific. APRI used the issuance to finance the rehabilitation of the Tiwi-MakBan geothermal power facilities, which it bought from the government in 2009 and to partially fund its operating expenditures and future capital investments. Seen at the awarding ceremony held last Feb. 1 at the London Hilton on Park Lane were (from left) Rod Morrison, PFI Magazine editor; Frederic Thomas, ADB Investment Specialist; Alex Carver of Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer; Gabriel T. Mañalac, AboitizPower SVP & Treasurer; Patricia Openshaw of Gibson, Dunn, & Crutcher LLP; Ramon Opulencia of BPI Global Markets; and Boo Hock Khoo, Credit Guarantee & Investment Facility VP Operations. photo supplied

Calbayog. The airline also launched direct service between Kalibo and Incheon; as well as its first US destination, Guam. CEB also teamed-up with some of the world’s leading Low Cost Carriers (LCC) to form Value Alliance, the world’s largest LCC Alliance, which aims to provide greater value, connectivity and choice for travel throughout Southeast Asia, North Asia and Australia. CEB also opened a branch office in South Korea, to boost promotional efforts in the Korean market.

CEB capped 2016 with 57 aircraft, adding two brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft in February 2017, to bring its current fleet to 59. For the rest of 2017, CEB expects to take delivery of one Airbus A330, two Airbus A321neo, and four more ATR 72-600; and delivering out three of its four Airbus A319 to end the year with 63 aircraft. CEB continues to have one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world, with an average age of 4.91 years.

10

Monday, March 27, 2017

Died.. from page 2

Philippine Navy, succumbed to cardiac arrest and all efforts to revive him by the rescue group proved futile, Dy said.

He said that Gaylawan was proclaimed dead on arrival by attending doctors at the Regional Mindanao Medical Center, a government hospital, about 200 meters from the provincial capitol building where the training was conducted.

Dy said that he was not aware of the amount of the financial assistance, but provincial governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano also offered the position vacated by the elder Gaylawan to his elder son Aldrin.

According to Dy, the PDRRMO conducts regular training of personnel in order to prepare them at all times and provide them new techniques in responding to emergency situations.

The PDRRMO was conducting an “earthquake” drill Friday last week when the unfortunate incident happened, which led to the death of one of the key members of the disaster group in Misamis Oriental, said Dy. Gaylawan was buried last Saturday morning in Golden Haven, a memorial park in Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City, with members and staff of the PDRRMO joining the funeral that sent Gaylawan to his final resting place.

Break Free... from page 5

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to reliance on dirty, devastating sources of energy.

After more than three years, the people themselves are the ones making the effort to take back their lives and their rights. They are transforming themselves into a global voice for communities who are at the

forefront of climate impacts.

Leyte citizens are turning to sports, arts and culture not just to make better sense of their experiences, but also to drive home the point that we have the power to Break Free from climate change,” said Desiree Llanos Dee, Climate Justice Campaigner of Greenpeace Southeast Asia – Philippines.

The different cycling groups from all over Leyte and the rowers from the Saltwater Dragon Boat Club of Tacloban joined artists, musicians, craftsmen and activists during the past week for skill-sharing workshops that are increasingly becoming avenues that show “building back better” should be pursued not just for infrastructure but, maybe more importantly, for lifestyles as well.

“The creative expressions in the series of Break Free 2017 activities in Leyte are as much for the people of the world as they are for the artists and people of Leyte. The creative process and the art work itself empower individuals and the community to find expression and fulfillment in putting their concerns into symbols. Art renders meaning to the creator.

It is empowering because the art-maker is engaged in making sense of things including, experiences of pain in disaster and puts them in order. Thus, they and their audiences who see this may be able to move on with their lives,” said Prof.

Joycie Dorado-Alegre of the University of the Philippines Tacloban – Visayas Campus (UPTVC) and President of the Leyte-Samar Heritage Society, Inc. The groups in Leyte are asking fossil fuel companies and governments around the world to take bolder steps in reducing emissions. A dramatic shift to renewable sources could potentially

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end the threat of climate change. The big fossil fuel companies account for the lion’s share of fossil fuel products that have been manufactured, marketed and sold since the industrial revolution and have contributed to record levels of carbon emissions globally, yet vulnerable countries like the Philippines are the most affected by climate impacts.

A petition was filed with the Philippines’ Commission on Human Rights by impacted communities, individuals and rights groups, concerning the role of big polluters in potential human rights abuses due to climate change. Hearings are expected to be held later this year. The petition is among a global wave of climate justice-related cases being brought against governments and fossil fuel companies. People have filed actions in countries including Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland and the Philippines.

“While the world’s eyes are on the unfolding of the CHR case, its ears are on the people of Leyte as they find their voice. And the message is clear: We cannot continue with business-asusual. Lives, livelihoods and ways of life are at stake,” Llanos Dee added.

Legacy... from page 5

are the Apolinario Mabini 10 piso 150th Commemorative Coin 2014, Dangal ng Bayan Medal of Civil Service Commission and Gawad Estadistika Trophy of the Philippine Statistical Association, Inc. Looking back where he hailed from at Guimbal, Iloilo, Rymer’s leap as a maker of presidential medals, banknotes and coins is what many—if not all--artists dream of and cherish, especially for one who started simply.

The artist will have a

two-man show at Fernando Sena Buenas Artes Gallery in Quezon City this coming May 16 to 31. I wrote the exhibit statement of this show entitled, “La Luz, El Abstraccion” where Gengoni is co-exhibitor: This show (Light and Abstraction) is a manifesto of Rymer Gengoni’s and Jerry Contridas’ art united through the same vision and profession. Having established their clout as currency and medal designers of Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the artists inscribe another star for their voices. And is it now for their Muse?

Gengoni limned folk traditions in his hometown Guimbal, Iloilo when he was still an advertising student.

In college, he used to join Hebron Artist group which also honed his talents. His early sentiment includes poverty and overpopulation—a common concern of rural life. But what stood out among his early body of works were a family of five or six compressed on the floor as they sleep with a kerosene lamp. The artist used this metaphor of light as a symbol of hope which he continues to use in this show. He could have seen many sufferings in his hometown milieu and in the country. He has wished to see them meet a touch of grace. Connecting these oeuvres in Gengoni’s personal experience, he recalls that he may not have a similar plight, but he also struggled while he stayed away from home to finish college. In those moments, his light—the Muse—gave him the stamina and courage to achieve. And triumph he did as he earned more awards in those years.

In Gengoni’s current painting series, his scenes have evolved into still life renditions in day settings which highlight more meanings. His lamps are placed

on a table with a white cloth.

The venerated aura might relate to his blessing as BSP’s artist. “There is a lamp in us waiting to be lighted,” the artist avers. Undeniably, he senses his role in the country that makes generations reflect the excellence of our artistry and richness of our culture. Not only does he like the lamp’s subtle grace to illuminate, he prepares it for any darkness to dispel as the artist involves with philanthropy. And why not use LED lights in lieu of the lampara? The artist’s vintage symbol simply communicates the old values worth keeping—love for family and friends, love of country and compassion. In the lampara series, Gengoni’s finesse limns the significance of Most Outstanding Guimbalanon in Visual Arts, and more to come.

The works of Contridas rightly complement the symbolism of Gengoni.

Sometimes, one must paint his thoughts and emotions defying figures that relate to day-to-day living. The limner supports how Jerry Saltz put it: “Abstraction is one of the greatest visionary tools ever invented by human beings to imagine, decipher and depict the world.”

The artist has a profound aesthetics in presenting an almost monochromatic rendition in a textured form. He uses vibrant colors in many of his works. Though logic is absent in any abstract art, the artist’s aesthetic manifests in sentiments such as the Creator’s touch, a dream of paradise and of looking back.

Contridas limns to celebrate: he has many blessings to thank for. Like going through a circuitous journey from the Visayas to earn a degree by working as a janitor in Makati, and end up getting more than a mere degree in fine arts. As a coin and medal designer

of BSP, he celebrates the opportunity to grace the public with his prodigious masterstrokes that will be long remembered among Filipinos through the years.

Though we see no objects in abstractions, Contridas’ “Kiss of the Prince” refers to the universal desire of many to be close to God. Here, he celebrates divine guidance.

He avers about this artwork: “People want to feel that there is someone on their side all the way. This piece reminds that the Lord God always protects and guides.”

In another work, “Tampisaw sa Ilog Paraiso” rendered with a dominant yellow, he talks about the dream of paradise, the reality of heaven and everyone’s call to be its citizen. Is paradise worth celebrating? It is, if the gruesome realities of our milieu depict much pain, imperfections and corruption. Paradise is the ultimate reward of faith and is only seen with eyes of faith. With such thoughts and technical proficiency in his art, the oeuvres of Contridas deserve a second look.

Light and celebrating faith in this show unite to help hemophilia patients through HAPLOS Foundation.

Income... from page 8

wi l l help big in increasing the har vest of the farmers. He urged the farmers to help in taking care of the facility. He said that the local government of Tagbina will constantly look into the welfare of the farmers and revealed his efforts in the planning process for the project.

According to Surigao del Sur Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Benjamin Mataksil, the irrigation facility will benefit 90 farmers mostly from the 754 agrarian reform beneficiaries in Ugoban-Sta. Maria-Sta. Juana-Doña Carmen Agrarian Reform C o m mu n i t y ( U S S A D ARC).

For Leopoldo Etubag, President of the UgobanNyholm Farmers Irrigation Association, it was a joy to have the project they have been waiting for years. “We hoped and waited. Now it is here.

We will do our best to use this gift with care,” he said in the vernacular.

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from page 1

the Kaamulan Festival, the President proceeded to the site of the proposed drug abuse treatment and rehabilitation center (DARTC) in Purok 17, Barangay Casisang, Malaybalay, on a five-hectare land donated by the city government.

Once finished, the facility will provide services such as livelihood programs, capability-building activities, and skills training for the recovering drug dependents.

It will also have sports and recreational amenities for the drug users as well as training center for medical practitioners, health workers, and volunteers of the taskforce DARTC. Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, in a statement, said the rehab center started out with the recent signing of memorandum between the Friends of the Philippines Foundation, a Chinese nongovernment organization, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Department of Health.

Zubiri said Malaybalay was chosen as the rehab center’s base because it is equidistant or midway from various progressive cities in Mindanao.

“Bukidnon is at the heart of Mindanao. Therefore, establishment of this facility, which will have a capacity to house and handle more than 5,000 recovering drug dependents, is a guarantee that all cities in Mindanao will be catered,” Zubiri said.

The senator added Malaybalay is also an ideal location for a facility for drug users seeking rehabilitation due to its cold weather.

“It will not be like the other facilities where the patients feel like it’s a detention center. In the proposed site, they will be taught many skills, including gardening and organic farming. It has a sprawling resort-like design,” Zubiri said in an interview Saturday.

The facility will also have four basketball courts and an indoor gymnasium, swimming pool, training centers, and the dormitories will be conducive to the patients.

Construction will start after the groundbreaking and is expected to be operational by the last quarter of 2017.

Meanwhile, Bukidnon Governor Jose Maria Zubiri Jr. said that aside from the rehab center, various Chinese business groups will also invest in more than a dozen projects in the province in the coming days.

Destructive... from page 1

Millions of people in Metro Manila – with or without water connections – have insufficient yet expensive water supply. Some areas in the country especially Mindanao continue to experience intermittent power services while increasing power rates constantly loom, noted the

group.

WPN obser ved that many large hydropower dams such as Ambuklao, Binga and Magat are in fact underused largely due to heavy siltation brought about by the dams’ enormity.

For the same reason, the Pantabangan power plant and the San Roque Multipurpose Dam also produce only 6% and 27% of their rated capacities, respectively. These dams range from over 200-1,000 meters in length and are 100 to over 200 meters high, occupying sizeable areas of land.

Aside from failing to provide cheap and accessible utilities, WPN said, large dams have been destructive to communities, particularly those of farmers and indigenous peoples.

For instance, due to heavy rains from Typhoons Lando and Nona in 2015, water was released from the San Roque, Binga, Ambuklao, Ipo, Angat and Magat dams. This led to wide-scale flooding and wrought approximately Php13.8 billion in damages to livelihoods and properties.

Megad ams displ ace human settlements and drive communities away from livelihood and income sources, WPN said.

The construction of Pantabangan Dam, for example, displaced an entire town with 13,000 people, seven villages, and 8,100 hectares of land of which 4,000 were residential. The 500-hectare Ambuklao Dam that was constructed from 1952-1956 in Itogon, Benguet dislocated some 200 families.

Binga Dam engulfed 150 hectares of ancestral lands of the Bugkalot and Ibaloi. The San Roque Dam submerged 4,000 hectares also of Ibaloi and Bugkalot ancestral domains and physically displaced 600-741 families. The Pulangi IV HEP meanwhile submerged 1,400 hectares of agricultural lands and displaced four barangays in the municipality of Maramag, Bukidnon.

Meanwhile, ten thousand families in nine barangays inhabited by the Dumagat and Remontado indigenous peoples stand to be affected by the impending revival of the New Centennial Water Source Project (NCWS) in Laiban, Rizal, which pertains to the Laiban Dam (that includes Kaliwa Dam), according to the Bigkis at Lakas ng mga Katutubo ng Timog Katagalugan (BALATIK). On the other hand, the 500-megawatt Wawa Pumped-Storage Hydro Power Project by Olympia Violago Water and Power Inc. threatens to displace six communities of indigenous peoples and settlers in Rodriguez and Antipolo, Rizal.

According to WPN, megadams have only served and profited international financial institutions (IFIs) like the World Bank, big foreign and local construction and power companies, and their government cohorts.

Monday, March 27, 2017 It is high time for government to heed the call of the indigenous peoples, farmers and people’s rights advocates to suspend the construction of large dams, and to take hold of the energy and water sectors primarily for public rather than commercial benefit, the group said.

Source: IBON.org

Free... from page 1

city health officials, and the local Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to Gaane, the city council committee was now waiting for the final recommendation of the Department of Health (DOH), particularly about the anti-electronic smoking rules.

She said that with the DOH recommendation, the committee would formally endorse the “smoke-free” ordinance for the approval of the local august body.

(PNA)

Skipper... from page 1

On Thursday, the Abu Sayyaf bandits hijacked M/T Tug R9 and forcibly took Agacac, along with his chief engineer, Laurencio Tiro, in the vicinity of Sibago Island, Hadji Mohammad Ajul town.

Uy did not provide further details on the circumstances that led to the rescue of Agacac, but said they beefed up their operation following the brazen attack of the Abu Sayyaf on Thursday.

Earlier, operating troops from the 19th Special Forces Company of the 4th Special Forces Battalion killed an Abu Sayyaf member, Jaudi Salupuddin, during a hot pursuit operation in Tuburan town following the hijack incident in the neighboring municipality of Hadji Mohammad Ajul.

“He was fatally wounded when he was turned over, prompting the military to evacuate him to the nearest medical station. However, he expired along the way,” Capt.

Jo-ann Petinglay, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said.

Petinglay said Salupuddin was among those involved in the hijack of M/T Tug R9.

The troops also recovered an M-16 rifle with two short magazines of ammunition and a motorized banca used by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the kidnapping.

On Friday, the military also recovered one colored light blue motorboat locally known as “bote-bote” with a 10-person capacity, and one yellow outrigger-type motorboat with a four-person capacity at Sitio Kapago, Barangay Candiis, Tuburan.

Both boats were positively identified as the ones used in the hijacking of M/T Tug R9 and their engines were already removed.

Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom commander, said a pursuit operation

is still ongoing in coordination with the police forces in Basilan province.

“WestMinCom is doing its best to rescue all the kidnap victims within our area of operations. However, this is one challenge that your Armed Forces cannot address alone. We need the help and the support of every peace-loving Filipinos in this fight,” Galvez said.

“As of this report, Westmincom troops are working doubly hard to track and rescue the remaining sailor (Tiro) and the other kidnap victims. We will use all means to rescue the remaining hostages.”

Prior to the hijack on Thursday, troops from the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion under the Joint Task Force Basilan and members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) launched an assault against the Abu Sayyaf in Tuburan town.

At least one Abu Sayyaf member identified as Bistahan Nisalun, alias UpangUpang, was killed during the assault in Barangay Lahi-Lahi, Tuburan. He was a known follower of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Abdullah Indanan alias Abdullah Jhovel or Guru, Petinglay said.

The Philippine military is operating on a six-month deadline imposed by President Rodrigo Duterte to finish off the Abu Sayyaf, which has carried out a string of maritime kidnappings over the past year.

The deadline will lapse on June 30. (PNA)

Plan... from page 2

past,” Sarmiento said. “(But) Congress should hold hearings to determine the gravity and its impact on barangay elections,” he said.

The National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel), on one hand, disagreed with President Rodrigo Duterte’s move to reset the elections because of alleged involvement of drug money during such exercise.

Namfrel Secretary General Eric Alvia said elections should have “regularity” and should push through.

“Postponing elections undermine a democratic process instituted to ensure every individual citizen’s right to choose their leaders and make them accountable,” he said.

The election was supposed to be held last year but it was rescheduled for October this year.

Instead of holding elections, Duterte said he wants handpicked appointees to rid the country of drugs.

For Alvia, the Duterte administration should use the electoral exercise to advance its war against drugs and narco-politics.

“Conducting the elections this October 2017 will enhance their anti-drug campaign and aid in putting a stop to narco-politics by replacing those compromised and entrenched unfit local leaders using narco-money to perpetuate

11

themselves in office,” he naraja stated.

He added that the realsaid. (CBCPNews) ization of RCEP, a proposed free trade agreement among from page 2 the 10 ASEAN countries, markets, (2) the struc- China, India, Japan, South tural transformation and Korea, Australia, and New reduced import demand Zealand, would greatly help from China, and (3) the pos- in promoting free flow of sible impact of increasing trade and investments in nontariff measures (NTMs). the region.

He, however, argued that there are trading opportunities that developing Asian from page 2 economies can profitably is need to grant Comenurture. For example, he lec the power to defer the cited some new trading elections,” he added. opportunities from China’s Alvarez said the necrebalancing and moving essar y amendment can up the global value chain be proposed and tackled (GVC). when Congress resumes “China’s transition to session on May 2. higher domestic value added President Duterte had and innovation means the admitted that his plan to development of more tech- appoint barangay officials nologically sophisticated to fill the vacant posts GVCs in East Asia. As some would be “quite messy” of China’s labor-intensive because incumbent baranGVC production stages gay officials would likely migrate to lower-cost loca- oppose the move. tions in the region, small and According to the Presimedium enterprises (SMEs) dent, the first requirement will have a greater role as for a barangay officer-indirect or indirect exporters,” charge nominee is that Wignaraja explained. This they should not have any will also result in the ex- connections at all with pansion of services exports rebels. Second, is that they across the region includ- are not into drugs, and ing digital trade, financial lastly, they are not really services, and professional leaders of politicians. services.

The President said he To benefit from these would accept nominations new trading opportunities, from the Catholic Church, the Philippines and other from Islam leaders, reliAsian countries, must put gious denominations and in place reforms to reduce other organizations. behind the border barriers However, opposition by upgrading skills, enhanc- lawmakers at the House ing SME financing, investing of Representatives warned on and upgrading seaports, against this move of postlogistics, and digital infra- poning anew the barangay structure, among others. polls and having its ofIn the Philippines, Wig- ficials appointed instead. naraja particularly cited the Albay Rep. Edcel Lagneed to improve roads and man said that existing laws ports to encourage more do not provide for appointtourists to visit the country. ment of officers-in-charge He also pointed out the (OICs) for elective baranneed to further improve gay positions, stressing the ease of doing business that the choice of elective to attract more investors, officials belongs to the and bring down the high electorate. cost of electricity, which “It has been consisis an important input in tently provided under the manufacturing. various barangay election Enhancement of the ser- laws, including the law vices industry is also an which postponed the baarea that the Philippines rangay elections to October can explore. The Philippine 2017, that all barangay business process outsourc- officials shall serve until ing (BPO) sector, accord- their successors are duly ing to Wignaraja, must go elected and qualified, unbeyond jobs that can be less meanwhile they have easily displaced by artificial been dismissed for cause,” intelligence or robotic tech- Lagman said. nology. Instead of focusing “Any further postponeon low-skill, labor-intensive ment of the village polls jobs, the local BPO industry, must not allow the appointhe suggested, must upgrade ment of OICs either by the its offering to high-skill ser- President, or the Secretary vices such as IT engineering of DILG,” he added. and software programming.

For his part, Magdalo Lastly, Wignaraja ad- Partylist Rep. Gary Alejano vised Asian countries to said that administrative resist protectionist mea- charges should be filed sures. Instead, they should against barangay captains continue to liberalize goods with alleged links to the and services trade by re- illegal drug trade. ducing import tariffs and “In that way, those susconducting better surveil- pected barangay captains lance of NTMs, especially will have the opportunity in the area of sanitary and to defend themselves and phytosanitary measures and at the same time those who technical barriers to trade. are considered clean will “The Philippines as chair not be dragged unnecesof the ASEAN Summit this sarily and their names year is in a strategic position destroyed before the pubto push for the Regional lic,” Alejano said. A report Comprehensive Economic culled from the Philippine Partnership (RCEP),” Wig- News Agency

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Monday, March 27, 2017

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