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NGCP assures uninterrupted power supply on election day
Easter Sunday Buy
A parent examines angel costumes up for sale near the St. Augustine Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro City on March 25, 2013. MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo
Shabu’ in burger triggers closure of SouthCot jail By Allen V. Estabillo GENERAL SANTOS CITY (MindaNews) — Jail authorities have temporarily shut down the South Cotabato Detention and Rehabilitation Center to visitors following a supposed attempt by a visiting minor to sneak in a sachet of suspected metamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu hidden in a hamburger on Monday afternoon. Felicito Gumapac, acting
jail warden, said Tuesday the illegal drug was discovered by a jail guard at around 4:15 p.m. while inspecting a plastic bag containing some hamburgers that was brought by a 13 year-old boy for one of their inmates. The official said jail guard Alexies Barmido noticed the stashed shabu sachet during a routine search on the boy and his belongings as mandated for all visitors of the facility. He said the boy was sup-
posedly visiting a relative identified as Jonas Garfin, who is one of the jail’s trustee inmates. When accosted, Gumapac said the minor pointed to a woman waiting outside the jail as the owner of the packed hamburgers containing the banned drug. He said the woman, whom he only identified as a former inmate named Cheryl or Che-Che, hastily left the area aboard a motorcycle. The minor was placed
under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development pending further actions on his case. Gumapac said they have launched a deeper investigation into the incident and were specifically determining if other inmates are involved in illegal drug activities inside the facility. He refused to make a conclusion regarding the alleged involvement of one of their trustees, saying it See SHABU/p.11
C A G AYA N D E O R O CITY—The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) yesterday assured the timely and uninterrupted transmission of adequate electricity a week before, on election day, and a week after election day. NGCP, however, cannot guarantee that there will be enough electricity from the power generation and distribution sectors on the week prior to, on and days after the May 16 election. “NGCP alone cannot guarantee na hindi po magkakaroon ng brownout in Mindanao or any part of the country. Dapat tulong tulong po ang generation sector, supply at distribution sector sa ilalim ng Department of Energy. Tulong tulong po kami. Each of us plays our own part to ensure na ma-minimize ang brownouts,” said lawyer Cynthia P. Alabanza, NGCP corporate communications officer. A l ab an z a s ai d t hat NGCP is preparing for the mid-term election “as if this is a coming typhoon or disaster.” “Like in a disaster or typhoon, we don’t know how it will affect the grid,” she said, adding that NGCP is presently conducting inventory of all its resources, facilities and people “to make sure that if something will happen [on election day] we can immediately restore power.” However, without the cooperation of the other members of the “Energy Family”, NGCP’s preparation will be to naught.
“Even if we guarantee the transmission, walang kwenta yon kung wala kaming pararaanin o kung magtitipid ng magtitipid ang generation sector,” she said. Alabanza likened NGCP to an air traffic controller in a one-runway airport. “NGCP is the systems operator much like an air traffic controller in an airport where you only have one runway. Because of the many planes landing and taking off, there is a need to control traffic. And in the power sector, we are that traffic controller. What NGCP can do is to make sure that the highway is open and wide enough to allow all electricity to pass through without congestion or bottlenecks. But we can only do this if all members of the Energy Family cooperate to make sure there is adequate power,” she stressed. No collusion with other players: She denied allegations that NGCP, along with other key players in the power sector are colluding to create an artificial power crisis, especially in Mindanao. “It does not make ense for NGCP to hold any supply. The less we transmit the less we earn. It does not make any economical, technical, financial sense for NGCP to collude with anyone,” she said. The EPIRA prohibits NGCP from having any financial interests with any power generation company or power distribution utility. “Technically, yes, we See NGCP/p.11
Make Holy Week A Time of ANALYSIS: Kids of Summer Reflection for Self And Country SCHOOL may be out for the summer, but that does official radio program of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation not mean kids cannot keep on learning. Whether your Inc. (RAFI). A PARTYLIST representative encouraged the millions of Christians in the country to observe the Holy Week as a moment of personal reflection even as it also urged the people to use the solemn period to analyze the situation of the nation. The Holy Week commemorates the passion,
death and resurrection of Christ and is observed by most Christians around the world. The Philippines is the only Christian nation in Asia. “The Holy Week offers us a time to reflect on our lives and change for the better,” said Bayan Muna See Country/p.11
children’s interest is on cooking, arts, or sports, there are many activities that will be perfect for them to do during summertime. “Summer is the time to bring out the best in our children. It is an opportunity to enhance the individuality and uniqueness of a child. There are many activities that will cultivate the potentials of children whether at home or in workshop centers,” Gwen Lucero, assistant administrator of St. Michael’s Play Garden, said during the during the March 23 episode of “Pagtuki”, the
She mentioned that there are a variety of summer workshops or activities―such as music, dance, crafts and arts, theatre, or sports―which children can choose from. “As much as possible, families should not spend money to send off their children to workshop centers. The most important thing is the quality time and communication we give to our kids. Child-inclusive activities, such as doing household chores are great bonding See SUMMER/p.11
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News In Focus
FRIday| march 29, 2013
Editor: CRIS DIAZ Email: crisguardian@yahoo.com Editorial. : mindanaodailynews@gmail.com • Advertising : mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com
SouthCotabato pols heeding bishop’s appeal to start campaign on Monday GENERAL Santos City–– Political camps in South Cotabato province have decided to delay the start of their campaigning until next week in observance of the Holy Week or Lenten holidays. Leaders of the local Liberal Party-National People’s Coalition (LP-NPC), Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD) and United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) parties made such decision in response to an appeal from Diocese of Marbel Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez for local politicians “to devote the Holy Week to God.” He urged them instead
to just start their campaign activities on Monday next week or a day after Easter Sunday. “After that (Easter Sunday), they’re free to do anything they want,” Gutierrez said. The bishop reminded candidates to focus their campaigning on issues affecting their constituency and refrain from hurling personal attacks. South Cotabato (2nd District) Rep. Daisy AvanceFuentes, who is running for governor under the LP-NPC ticket, said they decided to start campaigning on Monday or April 1. “We at the provincial
level will abide (with the bishop’s request). I think the Holy Week is a time for us to do some spiritual reflection,” she said. But Fuentes said she could not assure whether the group’s municipallevel candidates would also defer their campaigning until Monday. “I’ve been asking my mayoral candidates to just postpone their activities until April 1 but there were some who are really eager to start early,” she said. Lakas-CMD gubernatorial bet Fernando Miguel, who has not fielded a full provincial slate, said he will not begin his campaign
activities until April 3. “My opening salvo will be in Koronadal City possibly next week but we have not yet set a specific date,” he said. Miguel, who is a former mayor of Koronadal City who served for 19 years, will join his son, re-electionist Mayor Peter Miguel, in their campaign sorties in the area. For the UNA slate, the camp of incumbent reelectionist Gov. Arthur Pingoy Jr. noted that they will begin their campaign activities on April 1. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) had set the start of the local
campaign period for the May 13, 2013 elections on March 29 but it falls on Good Friday. Comelec said any form of campaigning is prohibited on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday as provided for by Republic Act (RA) 7166 or the Synchronized National and Local Elections and Electoral Reforms Act as well as Comelec Resolution 9385. Section 5 of RA 7166 provides that the campaign period may exclude the day before Election Day, the day of the election itself, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. Comelec Resolution
9385, which set the calendar of activities for the campaign period, excluded Maundy Thursday and Good Friday from the regular campaigning of political candidates. RA 7166 noted that any violation of such rule constitutes an election offense punishable under Sections 263 and 264 of the Omnibus Election Code. Section 264 of the code cited that any person found guilty of any election offense may face imprisonment of up to six years, disqualification to hold any public office and deprivation of their right to vote. (Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews)
Women urge Catholics: Don’t be afraid to support RH Law By CHERYLL D. FIEL DavaoToday.com
D AVA O C i t y – – T h e y thought their long struggle for a Reproductive Health Law will finally come to fruition by Easter Sunday. However, this was doused by Supreme Court’s recent status quo ante order and clamor by the Catholic clergy to oppose the law and its legislators. Women rights advocates especially in Davao are wary that these might stretch the debate on RH rights at the expense of pregnant mothers in need of health care. The Reproductive Health
“RH law is women-beneficial. Let us always remember that if women in the country are in a better lot, the country would be a better place as it has been proven that countries which take care of the well-being of their women, who have healthy women, are more progressive.” — Dr. Jean Lindo, GabrielaDavao Chairperson Law or the “Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012” (Republic Act 10354) became the most debated in the history of Congress for two decades, bringing the women’s movement in direct confrontation to the Catholic Church. The law
was passed last December. But the Supreme Court order released a status quo ante, which means, “bringing the status before the dispute started,” effectively putting the implementation THE water connection to the GK Village in Upper Camaman-an (and the relocation sites in of the law on hold for 120- Pag-asa and Paglaum) was finally completed and, last March 26, 2013, was ceremonially days to pave the switched on by City Councilor Nadya Emano-Elipe in the presence of City Mayor Vicente Y. support | page 11
Emano, the City Councilors, the GK Villagers, and guests.
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FriDAY | march 29, 2013
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LENT is the Liturgical Season of 40 days of prayers and penance! The PASSION, DEATH and RESURRECTION of Jesus strikes a responsive chord in the hearts of the DAR public servants to re-commit in granting lands, providing integrated support services and delivering agrarian justice to our Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries through the Comprehensive AR Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) or RA 9700. May we come to the fullness of grace to the Crucified and Risen Christ as we offer fervent prayers and works of charity!
May Gods blessings & love be in our hearts this Lenten season as we commemorate the death of our risen Savior. Happy Easter Sunday!
Greetings from:
Ptr. Domingo C. Balase “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.“ (Matt. 28:19)
A BLESSED LENTEN SEASON! HAPPY EASTER! Republic of the Philippines NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSION PHILIPPNE NATIONAL POLICE ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR POLICE PROVINCIAL POLICE
Be sure to be home with your family this Lenten Season.
Happy Lenten Season!
Officials and Employees of the
Greetings from:
Department of Agrarian Reform Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office F.S. Pajares Street Pagadian City
May the love within us be seen in what we do and lead us to the Joy of Easter. Happy Easter Sunday to one & all!
Greetings from:
Engr. ARNULFO A. GARCIA
PSSUPT THOMAS U. ABELLAR Provincial Director
Let us feel the real essence of the love of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ as we commemorate his death on the cross for our salvation. HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY TO ONE & ALL!
A L L I E D BA N K
Greetings From:
F. Pajares Corner Cabrera streets Pagadian City
Engr. CESAR ‘’Julu” C. DACAL Former City Councilor, Pagadian City
Joins the observance of the Lenten season
Former City Councilor Pagadian City
HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY TO ONE & ALL!
A message from a friend WE JOIN THE PEOPLE OF PAGADIAN CITY IN THE OBSERVANCE OF THE HOLY WEEK PAGADIAN NEWS BUREAU
ANNIES GROCERY & GENERAL MERCHANDISE Former:
LUIS GEN. MERCHANDISE Datoc street Pagadian City
Joins the observance of the Lenten season
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Soccsksargen
AGUSAN DEL NORTE l AGUSAN DEL SUR l SURIGAO DEL SUR l SURIGAO DEL NORTE
FRIday| march 29, 2013 Editor: JOE DEL PUERTO FELICILDA Asst editor: ARJAY S. FELICILDA • Email: msbmdn@yahoo.com.ph Editorial : mindanaodailynews@gmail.com Advertising : mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com
LGU unveils GAD Code replica TACURONG CITY - Mayor Lina O. Montilla and City Councilor Psyche Sucaldito, with representatives of various women organizations in the city unveiled the City’s Gender and Development (GAD) Code replica during the City’s Women’s Month Celebration on March 22, 2013. City Councilor Sucaldito authored the GAD Code which is ‘a local legislation that spells out the City’s Government’s objective in safeguarding women from gender disparities, inequities that deprive them of equal opportunities to enjoy rights and fundamental freedom.’ Public and private agencies will be provided with handbooks of the GAD
Code. After the unveiling, Mayor Montilla inducted the officers of the newly-created Local Women D e vel opment C ounci l (LWDC). LWDC officers and members are heads and representatives of various women organizations in the city. The Purple Walk and Hataw (mass exercise) was conducted before the pro-
gram, uniting 24 women organizations and public and private agencies in the city. The LGU also offered free medical and dental check-up for women throughout the day. This year’s Women’s Mont h C elebrat ion is themed Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan. (Jezereel Louise C. Billano, LGU.Information/asf )
Koronadal establishes nursery stations
KO R O NA DA L C i t y - Gearing up for Tree Growing Festival 3 (TGF 3) on June 29, 2013, City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO), headed by Augustus Bretaña, established a nursery station at the back of city hall. With the primary need of half a million seedlings, this initiative is a crucial part in the preparations for the Tree Growing where it intends to cover around two thousand hectares of land in Roxas and Quezon Mountain Ranges. The bagging activity started on February 19, 2013 participated in by all city employees. All departments/offices were grouped accordingly and were given daily schedule in order to facilitate the activity smoothly. Army reser vists and the Koronadal PNP on Field Training Program (FTP) also contributed their time and effort to the bagging activity. Students from Marbel School Science and Technology (MSST), Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges (RMMC), and King’s College of Marbel were among the first schools that rendered their voluntary help to undertake nursery activity. Bacongco National High School followed suit and B/Sarabia National High School and other schools and agencies also took part in the activity. Bretaña is now appealing to the public to extend their help in the preparation of seedlings during their free time.
The nursery station is open for voluntarism even on Saturdays and Sundays. The City Enro is targeting 7, 500 plantlets a day to complete the 300,000 bags of seedlings until the end of March but intends to prepare more in consideration of mortality. The TGF is now on its third year aiming to plant 500,000 seedlings in R oxas and Q ue zon Mountain ranges, 60% of which will comprise a variety of fruit trees and forest trees while 40% is intended for high valued crops such as coffee, cacao and coconut trees. This year’s Tree Growing Festival has a budget of only PhP4M which is lower compared to same activity last year amounting to PhP6M. Bretaña explained that, he proposed lower amount
despite the wider area to be planted because he wanted to emphasize the spirit of voluntarism in taking care of our environment since the act is not only the sole responsibility of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Koronadal but also of every responsible individual. The location of nursery station was suggested by the City Administrator Cyrus Jose Urbano seeing the wide space at the back of city hall ideal for the TGF’s preparation and to encourage participation by its visibility to drumbeat the event. On the other hand, all green schools here in the city including elementary and high schools are preparing seedlings to meet their assigned quota as part of their commitment. ( By Bic Manato/asf )
RDC-12
finds Kalahi-CIDSS projects excellent KO R O NA DA L C I T Y - School buildings constructed under the KapitBisig Laban sa KahirapanComprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Project are found “excellent”, the Regional Development Council (RDC) 12 reported Friday. The Regional Project Monitoring Committee of the RDC 12 randomly inspected several development projects, including those implemented through Kalahi-CIDSS Project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Emerita Q. Dizon, Kalahi-CIDSS regional project coordinator said that the RDC 12 monitoring committee conducted field inspection for the threeclassroom school building projects in the remote villages of Maguling, New La Union, Ticulab, and Wali in Maitum town and Kablacan, Maasim, all in Sarangani. “Each project inspected costs P1.8 million, in which the 30% of the total amount came from community local counterpart through provincial, municipal and barangay local government units,” Dizon said. The recent field monitoring and evaluation was conducted to identify initiatives and practices of priority projects worthy of replication and give recommendations for those agencies who are encountering
bottlenecks in implementation. “Based on the field monitoring report, the craftsmanship of the school buildings inspected in overall is considered excellent” Dizon said. The committee, in an 11-page report, cited that the classrooms constructed under Kalahi-CIDSS, with mostly having a total land area of 189.00 square meters, are well-executed, with a good quality of lumber used and with an excellent craftsmanship of doors, jambs, and window grills. The school buildings, all with genderized comfort room, are found having well-fabricated arm chairs, with a well-done installation of tiles, plumbing and lighting fixtures, while painting jobs in both exterior and interior are noted excellent. DSWD should document best practices and draw lessons learned for reference in planning and future project development undertakings, the report stated. For local government units and beneficiaries, the committee report suggests allocating funds for the landscaping and greening of the premises for aesthetic and environmental purposes. Also, stakeholders are recommended to ensure that water and sanitation component is provided so as not to compromise the
welfare and health of students and teachers. The recommendations and findings were confirmed by the Regional Development Council XII during the 41st Regular Meeting per RDC Resolution No. 29, series of 2013. “We welcome this development report which will further affirm that KalahiCIDSS projects are of quality and follow the standards set by government,” DSWD-12 Assistant Regional Director Gemma Rivera said. “This is the result of our activities in ensuring that funds are utilized as intended by the communities and the overall operating parameters are strictly followed.” Kalahi-CIDSS is a community-driven development anti-poverty alleviation project implemented by DSWD through the financial support from World Bank. Under the project, poor communities are capacitated to analyze their own problems, manage, plan, and implement their identified project to answer their pressing needs. Aside from school buildings, Kalahi-CIDSS also constructed other infra projects like bridges, health stations, water systems, day care centers, roads, post-har vest facilities, and other common services. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/HTEstacion, DSWD-12/ arjaysfelicilda)
FRIday | MARCH 29, 2013
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THINK a Minute. Someone said: “Death is the worst part of life!” A famous entertainer once said: “I’m not afraid to die, I just don’t want to be there when it happens!” Unfortunately, when it’s our time to die we don’t have any choice but to be there! Death is a fact of life that none of us can escape! Sooner or later, every one of us is going to stand alone and look death in the face! Don’t forget, the statistics and chances of death are 100 percent, it never fails: one out of every one people die! No one has ever gotten out of it alive! It doesn’t matter how rich, powerful, strong, or healthy we are—we’re all going to die! It may be a few more years or next week. So are you ready now?
Think A Minute Jhan Tiafau Hurst But almost worse than the fact of death is the fear of death. In the back of our minds we know that every day we’re getting closer and closer to the day we die. But is our death the end of us? Does death have the last word? Does it destroy our plans for living and take away all our hope? The answer’s quite simple: it depends on how and who you’re living for.
When it comes to death, Jesus Christ has been there and done that. He walked right into the grave and jaws of death… and came right back out alive! Jesus Christ, not death, is the One Who has the last word. He’s the only person in history who could do it—for one simple reason: He’s God Himself. So we never again have to fear death! You see, if you’re liv-
ing His way every day in a personal relationship with Him, Jesus said He’s going to lead you safely through death into eternal life with Him. Will death have the last word in your life? Not if you choose to live for Jesus Christ! Only Jesus can get you through death—safe and alive! Only He speaks the last word! And it’s the word not of death but of eternal life to every person who will truly believe and live for Him. So today, why not ask Jesus to forgive you for living your way and ask Him to take full control of your life? That’s when you can start living every day with no fear… not even of death! Just Think a Minute.
Holy Week Reflections IV: listening and obeying
LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me…” (Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, in John 10:27, the Holy Bible). -oooHOW DO WE LEARN AND IMMITATE JESUS? Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle’s Palm Sunday message---learning and imitating the example of Jesus Christ, our God and Savior--raises a question which not only Catholics but even other believers must answer: in what way can we all learn the example of Jesus Christ? With due apologies to Tagle, it is one thing to say that we must learn and imitate Jesus Christ, but it is another thing to do it. The fact is that Catholicism has been in this country for the last 500 years or so, and yet it cannot be denied that almost 99 percent of all Catholics in the four corners of the archipelago still do not truly know Jesus. What is more important, the same number of Catholic believers still do not know how to learn the example of Jesus. Casually ask any long-time Catholic, and you will know what I mean. Why is this so? Simply because Catholics, even those who go to mass regularly or even those who consider themselves “totally locked in the faith”, have not been taught to read and remember and live the commands of God written in the Bible. Many of them have
Kakampi mo ang batas Atty. Batas Mauricio
“
Nehemiah said: ‘They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.’” contented themselves with mere traditions and practices, which are not even in the Bible. Casually ask even long-time Catholics, and you will know what I mean. -oooHOLY WEEK REFLECTIONS IV: LISTENING AND OBEYING: This is tragic, to say the least, for even Jesus Christ Himself is clear that believers must “listen to His Word” and then “obey Him”. In the present context---or ever since the Bible started to be printed---“listening and obeying” would mean dutifully reading the Bible, and then meditating on it day and night, and then carefully carrying out all that is written in it. This standard is well written in the Old Testament, in Joshua 1:8: “Do not forget to read the Book of the Law, meditate on it day and night,
and be careful to obey everything that is written in it, then you will be successful and prosperous.” And Jesus Christ Himself made this clear in the New Testament, in Matthew 7:24-27, where He defined who is “wise”, and who is a “fool”. Jesus said, in these verses: “…everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock… everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand…” Then, in Matthew 6:33, He reiterated that those who seek God’s kingdom first and live according to His righteousness---in other words, those who read the Bible and obey its commands---would be well provided for. -oooREAD FOR SUC-
CESS AND PROSPERITY: “Listening” to, and obeying, the Word of God had always been a requirement for every believer since the time of the very first Israelites. In Deuteronomy 28:1-2 of the Bible, we are told: if you listen to the Lord your God, and carefully obey His commands, you will be exalted among the nations, and all blessings and abundance will come to you. In Nehemiah 8:18, the Book of the Law which Moses handed down to his fellow Israelite believers had to be read aloud, from daybreak till noon, over and over again, until everybody understood God’s commands. Nehemiah said: “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.” And this is what Catholics and all other believers must do---we must compel all believers to read the Bible, or the Book of the Law, or the Holy Book, and learn God’s commands. Yes, with the coming of Jesus Christ, the law was replaced with God’s grace. And yet, Jesus Christ Himself said, in Matthew 5:17: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” -oooREACTIONS? Please call me at 0917 984 24 68, 0918 574 0193, 0922 833 43 96. Email: batasmauricio@yahoo.com, mmauriciojr111@gmail. com
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THURsDay | march 28, 2013
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION SAN MIGUEL AVENUE, PASIG CITY IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE POWER SALES AGREEMENT BETWEEN AGUSAN DEL NORTE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. AND MAPALAD POWER CORPORATION, WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY, AGUSAN DEL NORTE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. AND MAPALAD POWER CORPORATION, Applicants. x-----------------------x
ERC CASE NO. 2013-__ RC
JOINT APPLICATION (WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY) Joint Applicants Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. and Mapalad Power Corporation, by their respective counsel, respectfully state: THE APPLICANTS
distribution utilities in the Mindanao region, including ANECO. This has resulted in further widespread power shortages. 13.4. PSALM is expected to reduce further its firm supply by 2016 when its Energy Con version Agreements with Western Mindanao Power Corporation and Southern Philippines Power Corporation expire. 14. Insufficiency of ANECO’s power supply. ANECO’s total power supply is insufficient to meet its power requirements. 14.1. As with the rest of Mindanao, the bulk of ANECO’s power requirements is currently supplied by PSALM. However, as discussed above, PSALM has drastically reduced its supply commitments to ANECO, and is expected to make further reductions in the near future. 14.2. NPC Certification. ANECO has formally requested NPC for a certification on whether it will have available capacity and energy to supply ANECO during the term of the PSA. NPC has not yet formally responded to such request. ANECO undertakes to submit the certification to this Honorable Commission once it is obtained. A copy of the said request is attached hereto as Annex “F.” 14.3. Aside from the NPC, Therma Marine, Inc. (“TMI”) also supplies 15 MW of power to ANECO under an Energy Supply Agreement with a contract term effective until 2015. 14.4. ANECO has entered into long-term supply contracts with Agusan Power Corporation (“APC”) and Sarangani Energy Corporation (“SEC”). However, supply under these contracts is expected to commence in 2015 as the power plants are still being constructed. 15. Even with supply from TMI, ANECO’s power supply is still far from sufficient to meet its current total requirements.
1. Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (“ANECO”) is a non-stock, non-profit electric cooperative organized and existing under and by virtue of Republic Act No. 6038, as amended, with office address at K.M. 2, J.C. Aquino Avenue, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte. ANECO has a franchise to distribute electricity in City of Butuan and the Municipalities of Buenavista, Cabadbaran, Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, Magallanes, Nasipit, R. T. Romualdez, Santiago and Tubay, all in the province of Agusan del Norte. A copy of ANECO’s certificate of franchise is attached hereto as Annex “A.”
16. Currently, ANECO’s power requirements stand at 48 MW. PSALM supplies ANECO only about 17.5 MW, while TMI supplies 15 MW. Thus, there is a very significant shortage of about 15.5 MW, almost one-third of ANECO’s power requirements.
2. Mapalad Power Corporation (“MPC”) is a generation company duly authorized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal address at 4th Floor, Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Chino Roces Avenue corner EDSA, Makati City. Copies of MPC’s Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, and latest General Information Sheet are attached hereto as Annex “B” and series.
18. Consequently, ANECO will continue to experience outages due to the shortage of supply and to the steady increase in its power demand, to the detriment of its customers and local businesses.
3. Joint Applicants may be served orders and other processes through their respective counsel.
20. Immediate need for power supply. In view of the foregoing, it is clear that ANECO needs to procure additional power supply that can be available at the soonest possible time.
NATURE OF THE APPLICATION
21. Other than supply from MPC, there does not appear to be any other viable alternative for immediate power supply available to ANECO to address the current power crisis.
4. Pursuant to Rule 20 (B) of the ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure, approved by this Honorable Commission on 22 June 2006 in Resolution No. 38, Series of 2006, this Application is submitted to the Honorable Commission for its review and approval of the Power Sales Agreement between ANECO and MPC (the “PSA”). A copy of the PSA is attached hereto as Annex “C.” COMPLIANCE WITH PRE-FILING REQUIREMENTS 5. In compliance with Rule 6 of the ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure, Joint Applicants have furnished the legislative bodies of each of the local government units where they principally operate a copy of the present Application with all its annexes and accompanying documents. Proofs of receipt by the legislative bodies of the said local government units are attached hereto as Annexes “D” and series.
17. As a result, ANECO’s customers have to endure daily rotational brownouts of about two (2) to three (3) hours, adversely affecting all electricity customers, including local businesses. In addition, the shortage of power supply is expected to worsen due to the steady increase in ANECO’s power demand.
19. Moreover, as stated above, the available supply of power in the entire Mindanao Grid will be drastically reduced in the coming summer months, further worsening the power shortage.
22. Thus, in order to alleviate the current power shortage, ANECO executed with MPC the PSA subject of the present case. 22.1. MPC is capable of commencing supply of power to ANECO within a relatively short period from the effectivity of the PSA. 22.2. Thus, the PSA will serve as an immediate solution to reduce the power shortage and help alleviate outages currently suffered by ANECO’s customers. 23. Under the law, no contract for the supply of power can become legally effective unless approved by this Honorable Commission. Hence, this Joint Application. ABSTRACT OF THE POWER SALES AGREEMENT AND RELATED INFORMATION
6. Furthermore, Joint Applicants have caused the publication of the present Application in its entirety, excluding its annexes, in a newspaper of general circulation within ANECO’s franchise area.
24. The Generation Facilities. To supply power under the PSA, MPC shall own, operate, rehabilitate, manage and maintain a bunker C-fired diesel power station located in Sitio Mapalad, Barangay Dalipuga, Iligan City, Province of Lanao del Norte (the “MPC Power Plant”). 24.1. The MPC Power Plant was acquired from the City Government of Iligan City. The said plant was previously owned by NPC, and operated by an independent power producer.
Copies of the newspaper and the corresponding affidavit of publication are attached hereto as Annexes “E” and “E-1,” respectively.
24.2. MPC shall perform rehabilitation works on the MPC Power Plant to enable efficient operations for purposes of supplying power to the Mindanao Grid.
STATEMENT OF FACTS
25. After rehabilitation, the MPC Power Plant shall have a total net generating capacity of 98.5 MW. It consists of two (2) power stations. The first power station consists of 11 generating units, each with a net generating capacity of 5.2 MW. The second power station consists of 7 generating units, each with a net generating capacity of 5.9 MW. A copy of a certification on the Plant’s specific fuel oil consumption rate is attached hereto as Annex “G.” 25.1. Scheduled Commercial Operations. The MPC Power Plant shall commence com mercial operations within six (6) weeks from the Effective Date of the PSA, or on a later date agreed upon by the parties on which the first six (6) MW of Contracted Capacity will be made available.
7. Shortage of Power Supply in the Mindanao Grid. The Mindanao Grid is currently facing a deficit in its power supply, which is certain to worsen over time. 8. The generating capacity in the Grid is no longer sufficient to meet the power requirements of Mindanao. 9. The Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (“PSALM”), which took over all the power generation assets of the National Power Corporation (“NPC”) pursuant to Republic Act No. 9136, supplies the bulk of the power requirements of Mindanao. 10. As discussed in further detail below, PSALM has drastically reduced its supply commitments to distribution utilities in Mindanao, including ANECO. 11. As a result, Mindanao, including the franchise area of ANECO, is suffering from significant power outages, adversely affecting local businesses and the daily lives of all electricity consumers. The lack of sufficient and reliable power supply has long been a barrier to much needed capital investment that would spur the local economy, not only in the franchise area of ANECO, but in greater Mindanao as well. 12. The Mindanao Grid is heavily dependent on hydroelectric power. In fact, according to the DOE, fifty-three percent (53%) of the total dependable capacity in the Mindanao Grid as of 2009 consists of hydroelectric generating capacity. As a consequence, available power supply in the Grid will be drastically reduced in the coming summer months. 13. Drastic Reduction in PSALM’s supply. As mentioned earlier, the bulk of the power requirements of the Mindanao Grid is being supplied by PSALM. 13.1. However, Republic Act No. 9136 mandates the privatization of NPC’s generation assets and prohibits NPC from investing in new generation capacity. Thus, a number of NPC’s power plants in Mindanao have been or will soon be sold and turned over to private power producers. 13.2. As a result, PSALM is no longer able to supply the full requirements of the Grid, including ANECO. 13.3. In fact, PSALM has drastically reduced its firm supply commitments to all the
26. Salient Features of the PSA. 26.1. Supply of Peaking Power Requirements. Under the PSA, MPC shall supply or cause to supply to ANECO the latter’s peaking electric power requirements with the Contracted Capacity of up to 6 MW based on the following schedule, and the Dispatchable Energy as indicated in and subject to the terms and conditions of the PSA.
26.2. The Contracted Capacity increases as more capacity becomes available during the rehabilitation of the MPC Power Plant, after which the Contracted Capacity shall be fixed at 15 MW. 26.3. Term. The term of supply and purchase under the PSA shall be for three (3) years from the commencement of commercial operations, unless otherwise renewed by mutual agreement of the parties in writing. 26.4. On each anniversary of the Effective Date, ANECO shall have the option to terminate the PSA or to decrease the Contract Capacity, subject only to a sixty-day prior written no tice. In addition, the parties can agree to increase the Contracted Capacity and Dispatchable
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Editorial. : mindanaodailynews@gmail.com Advertising : mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com Energy, subject to the same rates and to the availability of power supply. 26.5. Effective Date. The obligations under the PSA shall become effective on the Effec tive Date, when certain conditions shall have been satisfied, including the approval by this Honorable Commission of the PSA and the pricing structure therein, and the attainment or waiver of financial close for the project. 27. Purchased Power Rate. For the supply of power by MPC, ANECO shall pay the monthly payments based on the following formulae: 1. Monthly Payments The Monthly Payments shall be paid to the Seller on a monthly basis in accordance with the following formula: where: CRF FOMF VOMF AFC SUC RCEC Taxes
= = = = = = =
TMED = Theoretical Maximum Energy Delivered being the Contracted Capacity multiplied by the hours in the relevant month, less any adjustments made for Allowed Outage, limitation due to dispatch order, Force Majeure of the Power Station, and allowable start-up time due to period of non-generation due to a Buyer dispatch order or an Allowed Outage, and any other hours as a consequence of Buyer’s failure to perform any of its obligations = [CC x No. of Hours in Billing Month] – [[(CC on Outage x (Allowed Outage Hours – Actual Outage Hours)) + ((CC – kW Dispatch Ordered) x (Hours Not Dispatched)) + (CC on Outage x Force Majeure Outage Hours) + ((CC – kW Not Curtailed) x (Hours Transmission Line Not Fully Available or on Outage)) + (CC on Outage x Allowed Start up Time) + (CC on Outage x Buyer’s Downtime)]] A summation of the ED & TMED for a given Contract Year shall be made to determine true F during the Contract Year. Such yearly F factor shall be basis for adjustment of the CRF for the Contract Year. The adjustment shall be guided by the following conditions: IfΣED = ΣTMED, F=1
Capital Recovery Fees Fixed Operation and Maintenance Fee Variable Operation and Maintenance Fee Actual Fuel Cost Start-Up Costs Replacement Capacity and Energy Costs Value-Added Tax and other applicable taxes, if any
1.1 Capital Recovery Fee (CRF) CRF shall be computed as follows:
If ΣED > ΣTMED, F>1, excess will be carried over to the next year, if the excess is attributed to an event initiated by the Buyer calling for the dispatch of the Power Station to deviate from the agreed Dispatch and Nomination Procedures (Schedule E), and which applies only on to scheduled maintenance of these generating units. If ΣED < ΣTMED, F<1 3. Variable Operation & Maintenance Fee (VOMF) The Variable Operation and Maintenance Fee (VOMF) covers the cost of the use of, among other items, chemicals, lubricants and spare parts, that are directly related to the generation of the Power Station. It shall be computed according to the following formula:
Where: CRFR = CC =
Capital Recovery Fee Rate of PHP273.40/kw/month During the rehabilitation period, the Contracted Capacity shall be made available to the Buyer based on the following schedule:
After completion of the rehabilitation works, the Contracted Capacity shall be fixed at 15 MW. F
=
Outage Factor as derived using the following formula to be used.
Where:
Where: TMED = Theoretical Maximum Energy Delivered being the Contracted Capacity multiplied by the hours in the relevant month, less any adjustments made for Allowed Outage, limitation due to dispatch order, Force Majeure of the Power Station, and allowable start-up time due to period of non-generation due to a Buyer dispatch order or an Allowed Outage, and any other hours as a consequence of Buyer’s failure to perform any of its obligations = [CC x No. of Hours in Billing Month] – [[(CC on Outage x (Allowed Outage Hours – Actual Outage Hours)) + ((CC – kW Dispatch Ordered) x (Hours Not Dispatched)) + (CC on Outage x Force Majeure Outage Hours) + ((CC – kW Not Curtailed) x (Hours Transmission Line Not Fully Available or on Outage)) + (CC on Outage x Allowed Start up Time) + (CC on Outage x Buyer’s Downtime)]] A summation of the ED & TMED for a given Contract Year shall be made to determine true F during the Contract Year. Such yearly F factor shall be basis for adjustment of the CRF for the Contract Year. The adjustment shall be guided by the following conditions: If ΣED = ΣTMED, F=1 If ΣED > ΣTMED, F>1, excess will be carried over to the next year, if the excess is attributed to an event initiated by the Buyer calling for the dispatch of the Power Station to deviate from the agreed Dispatch and Nomination Procedures (Schedule E), and which applies only on to scheduled maintenance of these generating units. If ΣED < ΣTMED, F<1 2. Fixed Operation & Maintenance Fee (FOMF) The Fixed Operation and Maintenance Fee (FOMF) covers the operating and maintenance costs of the Power Station. It shall be computed according to the following formula:
Where: FOMFR = Fixed O&M Fee Rate of PHP217.62/kw/month CPIn = Consumer Price Index for Metropolitan Manila Area (National Capital Region), all items published by NEDA/NSO for the period of price determination CPIo = Consumer Price Index for Metropolitan Manila Area (National Capital Region), all items published by NEDA/NSO for June 2010 (at 115.9, 2006 = 100) WPCn = Wholesale Price Index for Mineral Fuels, Lubricants and Related Materials for the Philippines as published by NEDA/NSO for the period of price determination WPCo = Wholesale Price Index for Mineral Fuels, Lubricants and Related Materials for the Philippines as published by NEDA/NSO for June 2010 (at 518.2, 1998=100) EUn = Euro-Peso Exchange Rate for the period of price determination as published by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas EUo = Euro-Peso Exchange Rate for June 2010 (at P56.5910/ 1Euro) as published by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas FPPIn = Finland Producers’ Price Index for Manufacturing for the period of price determina tion as published in the International Financial Statistics of IMF FPPIo = Finland Producers’ Price Index for Manufacturing for June 2010 (at 108.5) as published in the International Financial Statistics of IMF F
= Monthly Actual Energy Delivered /TMED
Where : VOMF VOMFR ED CPIn CPIo EUn EUo FPPIn FPPIo WPCn WPCo
= Variable O&M Fee, in Pesos = Variable O&M Fee Rate of PHP0.17/kWh = kWh delivered during the billing period = Consumer Price Index for Metropolitan Manila Area (National Capital Region), all items published by NEDA/NSO for the period of price determination = Consumer Price Index for Metropolitan Manila Area (National Capital Region), all items published by NEDA/NSO for June 2010 (115.9, 2006 = 100) = Euro-Peso Exchange Rate for the period of price determination as published by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas = Euro-Peso Exchange Rate for June 2010 (at P56.5910/ 1Euro) as published by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas = Finland Producers’ Price Index for Manufacturing for the period of price determi nation as published in the International Financial Statistics of IMF = Finland Producers’ Price Index for Manufacturing for June 2010 (at 108.5) as published in the International Financial Statistics of IMF = Wholesale Price Index for Mineral Fuels, Lubricants and Related Materials for the Philippines as published by NEDA/NSO for the period of price determination = Wholesale Price Index for Mineral Fuels, Lubricants and Related Materials for the Philippines as published by NEDA/NSO for June 2010 (at 518.2).
4. Actual Fuel Cost (AFC) The Actual Fuel Cost (AFC) is the fee paid to the Seller as payment for the procurement and delivery of the fuel oil (Bunker C) used in the operation of the MPC Power Station. The Actual Fuel Cost shall be computed as follows:
Where: FCRF FCR FCRadj FCn FCo
= Base Fuel Cost Recovery Fee = FCR x ED = Fuel Price of P7.21/kWh, based on November 2012 delivered price of Bunker C Fuel Oil at plant site of P30.50/liter, density of 0.9855 gram/liter and Net Plant Heat Rate of 0.233 kg/kWh). = Fuel Cost Recovery Adjustment based on MOPS price of Bunker C/Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) deliveries during period of price determination in Peso/liter = (FCn –FCo) x 0.233 kg/kWh x ED = The average MOPS price of Bunker C Fuel Oil/Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) deliveries during the period of price determination in Peso/liter = The December 2012 reference price of MOPS Bunker C Fuel/Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) fuel at P30.50/liter (delivered) in Peso/liter
5. Value Added Tax The relative Value Added Taxes (“VAT”) of the above fee payments 12% shall be computed as follows:
6. Start-Up Costs (SUC) The Buyer, on a pro rata basis of the capacity of the Power Station allocated to the Buyer, shall pay the Seller Start-Up Costs for the cost of starting up the MPC Power Station after a period of shutdown due to any reason attributable to all the buyers of the Seller. The StartUp Costs shall be computed based on the prevailing price of diesel fuel at the time of the Start Up and paid in accordance with the following schedule: Type of Start-Up Cold Start-up (more than 10 hours of shutdown) Warm Start-up (less than 10 hours of shutdown)
Liters of Diesel Fuel 600 300
7. Replacement Capacity and Energy Cost Fee (if applicable) The Buyer shall pay the Seller Replacement Capacity and Energy Cost in accordance with the invoice provided by the supplier of Replacement Capacity and Energy Cost. 8. Backup Capacity and Backup Energy Costs Fee (if applicable) The Buyer shall pay the Seller Backup Capacity and Energy Cost equivalent to the Monthly Payment had there been no Forced Outage. Relevant computations supporting the above formulae are contained in Annex “H” hereof. For reference, sample computations of the rate considering various scenarios are contained in Schedule C of the PSA.
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27.1. Basis for indexation. As indicated in the formulae above, the monthly fees to be paid by ANECO are subject to adjustments based on various indices or factors in order to properly reflect the fluctuation of MPC’s costs in producing electricity.
27.2. The components of the Operation and Maintenance Fees representing foreign currency-denominated costs are adjusted based on the foreign exchange rate and the ap propriate foreign price indices; those representing local costs are adjusted based on local price indices. The Actual Fuel Costs vary based on the applicable fuel cost index.
28. Sources of Funds/Financial Plans. The project will be funded through loans and equity. The indicative debt-equity ratio for the project is 68:32.
experience significant power outages. 39. As shown by the analysis, minimizing the shortage and brownouts results in a corresponding increase in ANECO’s costs of procuring power. The results of the analysis are shown in the table below:
Amounts include cost of transmission from the suppliers through the Mindanao grid, except as regards supply from APC as the plant is directly connected to ANECO. 2 Shortage of about one-third of ANECO’s power requirements, resulting in rotating brownouts. 3 With supply from SEC and APC. 4 Shortage due to expiration of TMI contract in 2015. 1
28.1. Project Cost. The total cost of the project is P1.206 billion, which consists mainly of the costs for the acquisition and rehabilitation of the MPC Power Plant.
40. It bears reiterating that absent supply from MPC, the current power shortage and brownouts will continue as there is no other supplier who can provide power within a relatively short period. With MPC, the shortage and outages will be minimized, if not eradicated altogether. ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY 41. As discussed above, ANECO’s current power supply is not sufficient to meet its total power requirements. 42. ANECO can no longer source additional power from PSALM as the latter is mandated by law to privatize its generation facilities and is also prohibited from investing in generation facilities. In fact, PSALM has reduced its power supply commitment to ANECO. In addition, ANECO’s power demand is steadily increasing.
A breakdown of the above-mentioned project cost is attached hereto as Annex “I.” 28.2. Annual Interest. MPC is currently discussing with prospective lenders the terms and conditions of the project financing. MPC undertakes to provide the necessary docu mentation as soon as the same is available. 28.3. For purposes of determining the tariff under the PSA, MPC applied an estimated interest rate based on the interpolated PDST-F benchmark bid yield for 6-year treasury securities plus a spread of 225 basis points. 28.4. Computation of Weighted Average Cost of Capital. The nominal pre-tax Weighted Average Cost of Capital (“WACC”) of the project is 12.38%. A computation of the WACC is attached hereto as Annex “J.” 29. Cash Flow. 29.1. Breakdown of Operating and Maintenance Expenses. A detailed breakdown of the projected operating expenses is attached hereto as Annex “K.” 29.2. Offtake Arrangement. Under the PSA, MPC shall make available, reserve, guarantee and deliver to ANECO the Contracted Capacity, and ANECO shall pay for such quantity of electric power. MPC shall utilize such Contracted Capacity to generate energy for ANECO.
29.3. There is no minimum energy offtake under the PSA. As MPC will dedicate the Con tracted Capacity to ANECO, the Capital Recovery and the Fixed Operations and Maintenance Fees are computed based on the Contracted Capacity as well as on the proportion of actual energy delivered to the energy that could have been delivered.
30. Fuel supply. In order to ensure the supply of fuel for the operations of the MPC Power Plant, MPC solicited offers from reputable suppliers in the area. MPC is currently negotiating with the supplier which offered the best terms for fuel supply. 30.1. MPC undertakes to submit the eventual agreement for the supply of fuel as soon as the same becomes available. 30.2. It must be stressed that, in accordance with the relevant policy of this Honorable Commission, MPC shall derive no revenue whatsoever from the fuel supply. 31. Environmental Compliance Requirements. The Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines previously approved the exemption of the MPC Power Plant from the requirement of an environmental compliance certificate. Nevertheless, the MPC Power Plant will be operated responsibly in accordance with good utility practice and in accordance with all relevant laws and regulations, including environmental laws. Copies of documents evidencing such exemption are attached hereto as Annex “L” and series. 32. DOE Certification. The MPC Power Plant will greatly help alleviate the power shortage and outages in the Mindanao Grid and thus should be in line with state policy in ensuring supply of power to electricity users. MPC has formally requested the DOE for a certification that the capacity of the MPC Power Plant is consistent with the DOE’s Power Development Plan. A copy of the said request is attached hereto as Annex “M.” 33. Certificate of Compliance. In accordance with ERC Resolution No. 9, Series of 2010, MPC shall file the necessary application for a Certificate of Compliance in order to obtain the same before the commencement of commercial operations. 34. ANECO’s load forecast projections. A copy of ANECO’s Distribution Development Plan showing its load forecast projections is attached hereto as Annex “N.” RATE IMPLICATIONS OF THE POWER SALES AGREEMENT 35. In order to determine the impact of the implementation of the PSA on ANECO’s generation costs, an analysis was conducted taking into consideration the reduction of PSALM’s firm supply commitments to ANECO, supply from TMI and expected supply from APC and SEC. A copy of the said analysis is attached hereto as Annex “O.” 36. As mentioned previously, there is a very significant shortage in ANECO’s power supply of about 15.5 MW, almost one-third of ANECO’s power requirements. 37. The full implementation of the PSA will provide ANECO with an additional 15 MW of supply, addressing most of the supply deficiency. With supply from MPC, the brownouts will be minimized, if not eradicated. 38. On the other hand, without supply from MPC, ANECO’s franchise area will continue to
43. As stated above, ANECO’s power requirements stand at 48 MW, but its available supply amounts to about 32.5 MW. Thus, there is a very significant shortage of 15.5 MW, almost one-third of ANECO’s power requirements. 44. As a result, the electricity consumers and local businesses in ANECO’s franchise area suffer from daily rotational brownouts about two (2) to three (3) hours. 45. Thus, given the reduction in its power supply and its steadily increasing power requirements, it is imperative that ANECO contracts for additional power supply which can be available at the soonest possible time. Otherwise, ANECO would not have sufficient power supply to the detriment, not only of ANECO’s customers, but of local businesses as well. 46. As stated earlier, the full implementation of the PSA address most of the supply deficiency, minimizing the power outages, if not eradicating them altogether. 47. Thus, the immediate implementation of the PSA subject of the present case will significantly help alleviate the power outages in ANECO’s franchise area. This will greatly benefit the electricity customers and local businesses. 48. Moreover, the immediate implementation of the PSA is made more urgent by the onset of the summer months, when the supply of power in the entire Mindanao Grid will be severely reduced, owing to the Grid’s dependence on hydroelectric power plants. 49. In view of the foregoing, Joint Applicants respectfully move for the provisional approval of the instant Application pursuant to Rule 14 of this Honorable Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure. PRAYER WHEREFORE, premises considered, Joint Applicants ANECO and MPC respectfully pray that this Honorable Commission: 1. immediately issue an Order provisionally approving the Power Sales Agreement subject of the instant Joint Application, as well as the generation rate and adjustment mechanisms indicated therein; and
2. after due hearing, render judgment making such provisional approval permanent. Joint Applicants pray for other just and equitable relief under the premises. Pasig City, 25 March 2013. DUREMDES TEVES SAGMIT RAMOS AND PARTNERS Counsel for Applicant Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc Door B4, Plaza de Luisa Complex R. Magsaysay St. Davao City Tel. No. 082-226-3727 By: MARIA CHRISTINA S. SAGMIT Roll No. 42758 IBP No. 884250; 12/10/12, Davao City PTR No. 1326563; 1/2/13, Davao City MCLE Compliance No. III-0016759 LACHICA & ASSOCIATES Counsel for Applicant Mapalad Power Corporation Suite 1903-B, West Tower Philippine Stock Exchange Centre Exchange Road, Ortigas Center Pasig City Tel.: (632) 687.5028 Loc. 223; Fax: (632) 631.4858 E-mail: contact@lachicaandassociates.com By: SUNDY LORENCE C. LACHICA PTR No. 8439292; 1/11/13; Pasig City IBP No. 916147; 1/4/13; Makati MCLE Compliance No. IV-0007955; 9/18/12 Roll No. 51017 CHRISTIENE SALVE A. DEMAISIP PTR No. 8439291; 1/11/13; Pasig City IBP No. 916146; 1/4/13; Rizal MCLE Compliance No. III-0010836; 03/30/10 Roll No. 54475
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“We Grow Minds”
Oro Chamber prexy offers 2-prong approach to Laguindingan airport By CHENG ORDONEZ, NewsCon Director
THE business sector has reiterated its call to postpone the opening of the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, calling it “premature”, but recommended a two-prong approach to cushion the impact in the economy should the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) pushes through with the soft opening of the new airport on April 30, 2013, despite the lack of aviation facilities. Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. President Efren Uy told media practitioners during the weekly BusinessWeek Mindanao News Conference (NewsCon), where he was special guest, Monday, March 25, 2013, that stakeholders in Northern Mindanao are preparing for another resolution addressed to the Office of the President, the DOTC and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), reiterating their stand against the “premature opening” of the Laguindingan airport. Uy said businessmen can only agree to the opening of the new airport despite the commissioning of the Air Navigation and Support Services Facilities (ANSSF) if and when the service flights numbering to 24 are accommodated with the day-time 6:00 am to 6:00 pm operation of the Laguindingan airport. Earlier reports indicated that the new airport can only operate from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., but this has been expanded to 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. following protestations made by stakeholders who were alarmed by the almost 70 percent slashed in the cur-
rent flight loads. Uy revealed that airlines are contemplating of fielding bigger aircrafts for the Laguindingan airport if only to accommodate the passengers and cargoes within the prescribed time of airport operation. Other airlines are planning to have five to six flights a day to cope with the daytime schedule of the Laguindingan airport operation. “These are their plans – to compress the flights day time – but these cannot assure good results,” Uy told newsmen covering the NewsCon. “We find it not convenient for the passengers, especially those who will need to fly back to their destinations immediately and detrimental to the perishable goods that need to be transported out early in the morning to avoid the heat of the sun, including chicks of poultry farms that need to be shipped out early, as well,” he said. Though cognizant and appreciative of the importance of the forthcoming opening of the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, stakeholders who were signatories to the first resolu-
Mr. Efren T. Uy tion are apprehensive of the implication to safety of passengers and its effect on the economy of the region. “The people of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan and the surrounding areas are likewise expectant of the opening of the Laguindingan Airport, fully aware of the importance
of such a vital infrastructure project and the benefits it would give to the region as its next window of competitiveness,” the resolution read. Uy said on top of economic concerns is the safety of the passengers, saying that neighboring areas, which do not have airports, like Bukidnon and Iligan, rely on Cagayan de Oro’s airport, as well, so that it is expected that flight schedules will be very rigid if all the 24 fkights are accommodated during day time. Another approach that
Uy emphasized during the NewsCon is for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to use the Laguindingan airport temporarily instead of forcing its way to Lumbia. “Why not let our PAF transfer to Laguindingan temporarily instead of using Lumbia at this point in time when Laguindingan isn’t ready yet? As soon as everything is ready in Laguindingan, then they can proceed with transferring the commercial flights to Laguindingan,” Uy said. According to information gathered by the stakeholders, the Philippine Air Force will be moving its 15th Strike Wing from Danilo Atienza Air Base in Sangley Point, Cavite, once the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental becomes operational. The PAF base in Sangley is being moved to Mindanao to make way for the transfer of general aviation from NAIA to relieve congestion at the country’s premier airport. Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Jose Angel Honrado confirmed in a report filed in a national broadsheet the sequential movement of general aviation services from NAIA to Sangley, where the 15th Strike Wing is now headquartered once Lumbia airport’s domestic operations are successfully transferred to the new Laguindingan Airport. The transfers have already been by the Department of National Defense in a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Transportation and BEING BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Communications. The 15th Strike Wing is tasked to conduct tactical air operations in support of Armed Forces of the Philippines units. It has three major groups: Tactical, Maintenance and Supply, and Air Base. The Wing’s tactical elements included the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 20th Attack Squadrons and the 25th Composite Attack Squadron. Many of these units were forward deployed under the operational control of the Philippine Air Force’s numerous Tactical Operations Groups, including the 10th TOG which is now operating out of Lumbia airport. Uy stressed that the signatories to the resolution are not against the Laguindingan airport, but with the “premature opening.” When asked about the right time for the Laguindingan airport to operate: “First Quarter of 2014, that’s when the needed facilities are said to be in place,” he said. Uy revealed that they were surprise to know from DOTC during the meeting last March 15 that the rush opening of the airport is because DOTC wants to operate the new airport within the “warranty period” so that the contractor can be held liable to correct whatever defects in the construction of the Laguindingan Airport. Uy said warranty period for big projects can be moved to a later date and not necessarily be stiff as it appears with Laguindingan Airport’s. (with a report from Mike Baños)
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FriDAY | march 29, 2013
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NGCP... from page 1
control [the supply] because NGCP is the system operator. But the decisionmaking in how much power will be allocated to wherever is with the National Power Corportion,” she pointed out. “Dahil kulang yung supply wala tayong choice kundi mag-allocate, mag-rasyon. Kami po yung nagbibigay ng rasyon. Pero sino ang nagdedisyon kung ano ang rasyon, kung gaano karami, gaano kalaki, anong oras ibibigay, etc., ang mga detalye po nyan kinukuha po namin sa NPC dahil sila po ang main supplier,” she added. Host communities play key role: Alabanza said that communities where NGCP’s power transmission pylons (power towers) are located play vital role in assuring the timely and uninterrupted supply of adequate power to communities. “NGCP alone cannot protect its 20,000 kilometers of lines. Hindi po namin kayang bantayan bawat kilometro ng linya. It is practical impossibility unless we hire hundreds of thousands of security guards which is not feasible or practicable. That is why we are asking your help and the help of our host communities,” she said. NGCP has identified the area from Agus (Lanao del Sur) to Kibawe (Bukidnon) as “hotspots” where lawless elements usually bomb power towers. To secure this big area, NGCP is engaging its host communities in what it called as Bantay Linya program. It also forged agreements with local law enforcement agencies. Alabanza said that during 2010 presidential elections, there were no transmission-related outages. “Ibig po namin ulitin yung ganong accomplishment at sinusubukan po naming gawin ang lahat nang aming magawa upang ulitin po yung ganong accomplishment,” she said. NGCP has fast tracked maintenance work that can be fast tracked and has not scheduled any maintenance activity on days immediately prior, on and after election day. (Bong D. Fabe)
Country... from page 1
Rep. Neri Colmenares. He added that the reflection must go beyond the personal as the society is also in need of redemption. “Injustice blankets our nation not unlike the time of Christ. The Filipino people suffer from high price of commodities while our wages are immorally low. No matter how we scrimp, the money we earn is not just enough to provide a decent life. A UP student had to kill herself in frustration because even the price of education is beyond the reach of ordinary people,” he explained.
Our nation is blessed with richness of natural resources and a fertile land but only a few clans in power really benefit from the bounty. The ruling families make so much money as they control almost everything while the majority of us have to suffer penitence everyday,” the congressman observed. “Like Jesus, we must engage and expose the excesses of these modern Pharisees and offer ourselves in the movement towards changing this sad reality in our country,” Colmenares ended.
Shabu... from page 1
who cannot afford to enrol their children in centers can avail for free. Jan Montilla, program officer of RAFI Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund (DACF), disclosed that play develops the motor and psycho-social skills of young children. Parents should look for activities that would let their children play actively while learning in the process. “Summer break is the time where children can relax and enjoy their vacation. They can meet new friends and bond with their family members. By doing this, there is no time for them to stay at home and watch TV or play video games,” she added. Pagtuki is aired over DyLA every Saturday at 10-11am. The program, which is one of the Knowledge Sharing & Advocacy capabilities of RAFI, tackles timely and relevant issues on community development, politics and governance, micro-financing, education, environment, early childhood care and development, and culture and heritage that affect the Cebuano community. For more information about RAFI’s radio program, please contact Chrisley Hinayas at 418-7234 loc. 540, or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi. org.ph
could just be part of a plot to discredit the latter. “He has made enemies with other inmates because of his activities as our trustee,” Gumapac said without elaborating. On the foiled smuggling of the alleged shabu, he acknowledged that there had been numerous rumors regarding such activity at the facility. “We’ve been conducting thorough inspections on all our visitors so I don’t think a similar activity had gone unnoticed before. We’re not sleeping on our jobs and this is a proof to that,” he said. Gumapac added that they temporarily suspended the visitor’s privileges of all inmates for this week to facilitate their investigation. (Allen V. Estabillo/ MindaNews) from page 3 way for oral arguments to be heard by the High from page 1 Court come June. of the family and they Davao women advocates develop their sense of re- here once again find themsponsibility,” she said, add- selves head on against the ing that there are also free Catholic Church as they workshops sponsored by believe it had a hand in the schools and non-govern- petitions for the recent High ment organizations. Court suspension order. Summer activities are a Davao region chairpervenue for children to inter- son for Gabriela — a broad act with others of the same network of women’s orgaage, older or younger than nizations — Dr. Jean Lindo them. Lucero cited that team made an appeal to Catholics activities allow children to “to not be afraid to show handle different situations. support in the push for the Thus, they build children’s RH Law.” security, confidence, and At the rate that Filicharacter. pino women are dying of “Children learn through childbirth everyday due to play. They easily understand pregnancy complications, and appreciate things when which is 14 per day, Lindo they are involved and at the said the 120-day suspension same time enjoy what they of the implementation of the are doing. Young children RH law would mean letting learn through imitation,” another 1,680 women die. she said. Activities are also It would also mean letting dependent on the age of another 263 women die of children. complications of unsafe For Grace Llana, social abortion. welfare officer of Depart“The Catholic Church ment of Social Welfare and would have made a lot of Development (DWSD) 7, difference to the lives of summer workshops and ac- women by pushing for the tivities also develop values, RH law. Sadly, it has focreativity, and even school cused instead on demonperformance of children. izing the women, especially “Parents should remem- the advocates of the law,” ber that these activities she told davaotoday.com should provide the best in an interview. interest and welfare of their “If the Catholic Church children. As much as we claims to advocate for sowant them to enjoy their cial justice, then it should summer break, their rights have thrown its support as a child should be pro- behind a law that would tected above all,” she said. have promoted women’s She hopes that more vol- health,” Lindo said, addunteer groups will conduct ing that the law is needed summer activities for chil- given that women are most dren so that those parents
Support...
Summer...
vulnerable in this condition of widespread poverty. Violence against women, the context She explained that the economic situation made worse by the prevailing macho-perspective in society have created a hell of a situation for many Filipino women subjected to sex and violence. “Undeniably, in such circumstances it is the women who mostly end up being beaten up by their partners, get pregnant unintentionally, or acquire STI (sexually transmittable infections),” Lindo said, adding that it is in such instances that the RH Law can protect women. Citing a 2008 study by the Guttmacher Institute and UP Population Institute’s Study on “Meeting Women’s Contraceptive Needs in the Philippines,” Lindo said 54 percent of the pregnancies are not intended, numbering to 1.9 million. Of that figure, 560,000 underwent abortion, where 90,000 women died in the process, and 1,000 died of complications. Another 1,600 died of miscarriage, and 33 percent have short gaps in between each birth resulting to additional deaths and harm to newborns. Lindo pointed out such statistics show the need for access to reproductive health care information and services, and reproductive health and sexuality education among the young as well. She stressed that accessible family planning programs could mean empowering women and enabling a hold of their reproductive lives. Lindo debunked claims that the RH law allows use of abortifacient substances. “Abortion is out of the question in the RH Law. In fact, if it is mentioned in RA 10354, it states that it is illegal and punishable,” Lindo added. She noted that abortifacients are different from contraception, “The former expels the fetus, while the latter, prevents pregnancy.” She wished bishops will learn from clergy in other countries. “The use of contraception is even allowed in Italy, the seat of Catholicism,” Lindo said. She said abortion is treated as a public issue there where the number of women who resort to it are eight out of 1,000 pregnancies, compared to the Philippines’ 29 out of 1,000. Lindo stressed that there are options to family planning methods that will be made available: natural or modern, and that the law upholds religious freedoms and guarantees free and informed choice. “So what they are saying that it violates right to religious freedom is totally untrue,” Lindo said. Reproductive health and sexuality education among the young, Lindo added, is beneficial. “Studies show
that if the young have information and are aware of the consequences of sexual behavior, are less likely to engage in early sex, in premarital sex. They know how to assert and are most often in the best position to prevent sexual abuses against them,” Lindo said. She also said this is valuable given that prostitution is on the rise due to worsening socio-economic conditions. Janet Laurel of the nongovernment organization Talikala, a support group for women and girls who are forced into the sex trade here in Davao, could not agree more on the benefits of RH Law. “The RH law will be of great help to prostituted women, in terms of access to reproductive health services. Implementation of the law would mean that they do not have to pay for a regular check for STIs,” Laurel said. The law, Laurel added, answers to women-specific need for reproductive health care, citing that threats to health are always present due to their gender-assigned role of birthing. The need to legislate Those opposed to the RH law are saying that there is a way for women’s health to be promoted by local government units even without the benefit of legislation. The local government of Davao, for instance, has been cited for its numerous ordinances and programs providing for women’s health. Lindo, however, said “Davao is the exception, not the rule. We want local government units all over the country to be obliged to spend for women’s health. It is not a choice for the government, it is its responsibility to protect women’s health,” Lindo stressed. Where, at present, budget of health is less than three percent of the country’s Gross National Product (GNP), compared to spending in other countries for health at 17 percent of their GNP, legislation, as Lindo pointed out, is crucial. Legislating reproductive health care for women, according to Lindo, would ensure allocation of government budget for reproductive health services, such as access to maternal health care, caring of newborns in
crisis situations, emergency obstetric care, trainings for midwives and barangay health workers, and reproductive health care information, among others, as provided in the RH Law. “That is why we are saying that the implementation of the RH Law saves more lives of women!” said Lindo. Gearing for the battle ahead Lindo said they are also flexing now for the possibility of the anti-RH block to bat for a permanent restraining order. “But, the women’s movement would not stop. That we can promise. The women’s movement will continue to push for the RH law as this is long overdue. What we have now is even a watered-down version of the piece of legislation, but we still rallied behind it, if only to ease the suffering of women,” Lindo said. As for the Catholic Church’s attempt to “undermine” candidates supporting the RH Law by branding them as “Team Patay,” Lindo said, they are not one bit, demoralized. She said their organization and its networks will also work doubly hard to pitch candidates who support the RH Law as the real “Pro-lifers.” “What could be more pro-life than working to prevent more deaths of women?” she asked. Lindo said she is confident that there are those even among the Catholic clergy who are supportive of the RH Law. “I am pretty sure that not 100 percent of the religious adhere to the official stand of the Catholic Church on the reproductive health law. There are even priests who are supportive but are just being discreet about it,” she said. She is asking the support of not just the women, but the cross-section of society to support the law so that it may be finally given a chance. “RH law is womenbeneficial. Let us always remember that if women in the country are in a better lot, the country would be a better place as it has been proven that countries which take care of the well-being of their women, who have healthy women, are more progressive,” Lindo cited. (Cheryll D. Fiel/davaotoday.com)
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