Mindanao Daily Northmin (December 10, 2013)

Mindanao Daily NEWS

Volume II, No. 149

web portal: www.businessweekmindanao.com

Tuesday

December 10, 2013

P15.00

northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Historic marker at Gaston park gone; dad seeks probe

By CRIS DIAZ Executive Editor

Recto seeks higher tax exempt for 13th month, X’mas bonus

CAGAYAN de Oro City–– The City Council’s Committee on Tourism on Monday called for an investigation into the destruction of the National Historical Institute (NHI) marker at the historic Gaston Park in front of the St. Augustine Cathedral here.

See FULL STORY, page 2

Suspects in ‘Dignos murder’ still free AN escaped convict charged with the murder of Joas Dignos, a radio commentator killed on November 29, 2013.

The suspect remains at large, while his five accomplices are still unidentified.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) charged Dionesio Daulong with the murder of radio commentator Joas Dignos on See FREE, page 11

PURPLE PARK. The trees of the De Lara Park in front of the Misamis Oriental provincial capitol in Cagayan de Oro City are decked with new Christmas lights made of plastic bottles colored purple. Previously the lights were plain white light bulbs. One Thousand Five Hundred of the new lights have been installed.

Mindanao Daily News photo by Gerry Lee Gorit

Power supply woes artificial, says research group THE supposed tight energy supply is only artificial, and had government not relinquished effective control over energy development to profit-oriented private business, the public would have been spared from the impending huge increase in power rates.

Research group Ibon

n Lack of government control makes the public vulnerable to possible manipulation of supply to bloat power rates made this assertion following reports that the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) will hike rates by P2-3 per kilo-

inquire at MAX’S RESTAURANT. Robinsons Mall, CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY Tel. No.: (088) 858-6297 • (08822) 75-6297 • Cell. No.: 0917 7061147

Ibon argued that the power supply problem could have been prevented if the maintenance shutdown of the country’s energy sources and power plants were effectively controlled by watt-hour (kWh). The final government. But because it figure for the rate hike will relies too heavily on private be announced on Monday, business, government according to Meralco.

See group, page 11

SENATE President ProTempore Ralph G. Recto has filed a measure seeking to increase the cap imposed by law on the amount of 13th Month Pay, Christmas bonus and other benefits exempted from income tax.

Present laws exclude the mandated 13th Month Pay and the Christmas bonus from the coverage of income taxes, but only up to the extent of P30,000. Any amount in excess forms part of an individual’s gross income and therefore subject to the operation of the National Internal Revenue Code.

In filing Senate Bill No. 256, Recto wants the exclusion raised to P75,000, explaining that the present ceiling was set by a law enacted almost 20 years ago.

“We owe it to the people to amend laws that tend to be more repressive rather than be beneficial to the people. In this bill, we intend to breathe life again to the spirit of the law that, during the time of its passage, intended to allow the people to enjoy more of their hard-earned money,” the senator said.

Recto said his proposal is premised on the fact that the prevailing conditions in 1994 - the year Republic Act No. 7833 or the statute that imposed the See bonus, page 11

Editorial: e-mail: mindanaodailynews@gmail.com • 72-33-44, 856-3344 • Advertising: e-mail: mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com Contact cell nos.: 0917-7121424, 0947-8935776

2 Mindanao Daily NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

EDITOR: RUEL PELONE, ruel_pelone2002@yahoo.com

NorthMin News

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY l MISAMIS ORIENTAL l BUKIDNON

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial businessweekmindanao@gmail.com 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Historic marker at Gaston Park gone

By CRIS DIAZ Executive Editor

CAGAYAN de Oro City––The City Council’s Committee on Tourism on Monday called for an investigation into the destruction of the National Historical Institute (NHI) marker at the historic Gaston Park in front of the St. Augustine Cathedral here.

City Councilor Candy Darimbang, chair of the city’s committee on tourism, said that her office received complaints that the NHI marker within the park’s premises commemorating the day when Gen. Nicolas Capistrano, a native Cagayanon, led the first attack against the American forces here

in the 1900s was destroyed.

The epitaph of the historic marker bore the writings: “SIETE DE ABRIL,” April 7, 1900, the date Gen. Nicolas Capistrano attacked the American forces based on history.”

Darimbang said that the Cagayanon residents had expressed displeasure over the obliteration of the Gaston Park, the park that became part of Cagayan de Oro’s history, since the time of Spanish occupation here.

She said her committee will also look into the complaints decrying the concreting of the grass carpeted park which has been the playground of the Cagayanons for

almost 400 years ago and until the park was recently desecrated.

The city council also received complaints from frequent park visitors protesting the demolition of the children’s grass playground and converting the same into slabs of concrete pavements.

Lina Nagac, a resident near the park, said that “it has become the tradition of the Cagayanons to hang around the park to take some fresh air during hot summers and watch the starry skies at night.

The churchgoers usually do this afternoon attending masses at the St. Augustine Cathedral, she said.

“Now, the families and chil-

dren could no longer comfortably stroll around the park because the place has turned into a hell of inferno due to the heat emitted by the concrete pavement,” she said.

Darimbang said that she will bring the issue to the city council’s plenary session as soon as possible for fear that some protected and revered historical sites in the city would suffer the same fate in the future.

Newly elected City Mayor Oscar Moreno got the flak for ordering the re-development and re-modeling of the Gaston Park into a concrete park.

The Gaston Park is now an object of investigation after the

City Council sought the assistance of the Commissions on Audit (COA) to let Moreno disclosed the sources of funds for the redevelopment without authority and appropriation of the local August body.

Gaston Park was named after the first Mayor of Cagayan de Oro City: Segundo Gaston. The park served as the center of the town when Pueblo de Cagayan first established in 1624.

The park constructed near the St. Augustine Cathedral and the Archbishop Palace served as the training of the revolutionaries who were then preparing for the Phil-American war in the 1900s.

With report from Ercel Maandig

Bill mandates contractors to use PH made materials

By Lorelei V. Castillo, Media Relations Service-PRIB

TWO lawmakers have filed a bill mandating all contractors to use Philippine made materials for the construction, alteration or repair of any public works.

Rep. Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City) and his brother Rep. Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. (Party-list, Abante Mindanao) authored House Bill 3285 to promote and encourage the use of Philippine made products, materials and supplies in every

contract for construction.

Rodriguez cited the policy of the State as embodied in Article XII, Section 12 of the Constitution to promote the preferential use of Filipino labor, domestic materials and locally produced goods, and adopt measures that help make them competitive.

The me asure to b e known as the “Preference for Philippine Materials in Public Contracts Act,” also seeks to blacklist con-

No.: 09161714813 (GLOBE)

tractors, subcontractors, materialmen and suppliers who fail to comply with such requirements.

Rodriguez said under the bill, every contract for the construction, alteration or repair of any public building or public work in the country shall contain a provision that in the performance of the work, the contractor, subcontractors, materialmen or suppliers, shall use only unmanufactured articles, materials and supplies produced in

the country.

The bill also provides for an exception noted in the specification with respect to particular articles, materials or supplies that it is impracticable to comply with such requirement or that it would unreasonably increase the cost and a public record made of the findings which justified the exception.

If the head of the government agency which made the contract contain- rufus RODRIGUEz ing the provision required

by Section 4 of this Act, finds that there has been a failure to comply with such provisions, he shall make his findings public, including the name of the contractor and shall not be awarded within a period of three years with any contract for construction, alteration or repair of any

maxi RODRIGUEz

public building or public work elsewhere in the country.

“By doing this, the bill shall achieve its goal of blacklisting contractors, subcontractors, materialmen and suppliers who fail to comply with such requirements,” Rodriguez said.

Mindanao Daily 3 NEWS

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial businessweekmindanao@gmail.com 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

FIRST CDO CITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FORUM

More than 1,500 parents and scholars of the city government’s City College Scholarship Program (CCSP) met with City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno and members of the working committee led by Community Improvement Division acting chief Marisa M. Tagarda on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at the Tourism Hall to thresh out issues and concerns affecting the rules, policies and regulations on the implementation of the program.

The forum successfully ended with the signing of the Pledge of Commitment by the recipients to ensure smooth, effective implementation of the city’s scholarship program.

Photo courtesy of the City Information Office

Comelec declares Benito as mayor of Balabagan town, Lanao del Sur THE Commissions on Elections (COMELEC) declared Edna Ogka Benito as the duly elected Mayor of the municipal town of Balabagan in Lanao del Sur. In an en banc resolution released last Nov. 28, 2013, the COMELEC has cancelled the Certificate of Candidacy (COC) and annulled the proclamation of

Amer Sampiano as Mayor of Balabagan.

In a six-page resolution, the Comelec cited the “Three Term Limit Rule” as ground for Sampiano’s ineligibility which was “enacted into law to prevent the establishment of political dynasties and to enhance the electorate’s freedom of choice.”

The COMELEC said that Sampiano has already served the three-term limit and that his election into the mayoral post on the May 14, 2013 elections has violated the “Three Term Limit Rule.”

The COMELEC also denied Sampiano’s Motion for Reconsideration and See MAYOR, p.11

4 Mindanao Daily NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Caraga News

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Editor: JOE DEL PUERTO FELICILDA Asst editor: ARJAY S. FELICILDA mindanaodailycaraga@gmail.com

Agusan del Norte • Agusan del Sur • Surigao del Norte • Surigao del Sur • Dinagat Islands

Guv offers P50k bounty for broadcaster’s killers

By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN Regional Editor-Caraga

SAN Francisco, Agusan del Sur––Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimentel has offered P50,000 reward to anyone who will provide information that would lead to the arrest of the suspects behind the killing of Tandag City radio broadcaster Michael Milo.

The governor’s assurance came even as the Tri-media Association of Surigao del Sur (Trimass) have expressed fear that culture of impunity already pervades Tandag City as they believed gun-for-hire suspects with cheap fees could be behind the killing of their media colleague.

Milo, 34, station supervisor of Prime FM, was gunned down on Friday when motorcycle riding suspects shot him several times while he was driving his motorcycle on his way home. Milo is the secretary of Trimass prior to his death.

“It seems that hired killers can be paid even just a sack of rice,” said Judith Suarez, station manager of Sure FM and an active member of Trimass, as she expressed frustration Milo’s killers still go scot free as they cleanly carried out their task leaving no bullet cartridges in the crime scene.

Willie Evangelio, Trimass president, said they would convene on Wednesday to formulate a manifesto calling on the police for an early resolution of the case and at the same time condemned any senseless killing of local journalists.

“Even if media practitioners could have earned the ire of the powers that be, killing should not be the answer,” Evangelio said.

He said Milo’s case could be more of personal grudge since he has not been involved in public affairs LOOK MOM, IT’S BIG. Christmas lights blanket a giant replica of a shoe at the “Luneta Park” in Surigao program based on initial City on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013. Built in the 1970s, the structure houses a power generator that services the city hall, police headquarters, fire department and public market during blackouts. It also has a siren that sounds off every police investigation but See OFFERS, p.11

8am, 12nn, 5pm and 10pm and during emergencies. MindaNews photo by Roel N. Catoto

Surigao cop chief urges public to help for a peaceful Christmas

By PAT SAMONTE, Regional Editor-Caraga, and REY BALABA, Correspondent

SURIGAO City––Supt. Joseph R. Nohara, chief of the city police station here, has urged the public to help the local police in keeping peace and order as well as fully enjoying the Christmas season and the New Year.

Nohara made the appeal saying that public cooperation is essential for the police to move forward and keep criminal elements at bay.

By immediately reporting to the police suspicious characters and untoward incidents in their barangays, he said the people can be assured of quick action on the part of policemen and security of the community will be maintained and protected, he said.

According to Nohara, he had already taken measures against crimes involving illegal drugs, car thefts and bank robberies. He confided that store and house thefts are his big headaches. He said most often, the suspected offenders are young

men. While most of them are caught and spend time in prison, they go back to the same offenses once they are released. He took pity with these young people who seemed to be wasting their time committing crimes.

In preparation for the Christmas season, Nohara said that keeping peace and order during the long annual observance that extends until the new year required both the police and public cooperation.

“All we need from the public is to immediately report to us suspicious individuals or untoward incidents in the barangay so we can take note and act on them as soon as possible. We also urge the people to be alert and keep watch of their properties, their homes, their children and stay away from trouble. We wish Christmas 2013 will be peaceful and orderly, and full of cheer to the citizens of Surigao City who will greet the new year healthy and hopeful for a progressive 2014,” he said.

Army officer killed, 2 others hurt in NPA clash

By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN Regional Editor-Caraga and GERRY LEE GORIT Correspondent

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur--- An Army officer was killed while two soldiers were wounded in an encounter with communist guerillas on Friday afternoon in the hinterland

village of Surigao del Sur. Col. Gregory Cayetano, commander of the 401st Brigade, said the Army troops belonging to 7th Special Forces Company led by Capt. Jayson Glova engaged in heavy gunbattle twice with New Peoples Army rebels in Andap Valley complex in Barangay Buhisan in San Agustin town.

2Lt. Romeo Beniegla Jr., a 2012 graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, died in the gun battle while Pfc. Donald Linian and Pfc. Gaspar Caleja Jr. suffered from bullet wounds, said Capt. Christian Uy, spokesman for the Philippine Army 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro. See clash/p.11

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Editor: JOE DEL PUERTO FELICILDA Asst editor: ARJAY S. FELICILDA Email: mindanaodailycaraga@gmail.com

News in Focus and one of it is for promotion form one position to much higher rank with equivalent high compensation. To be promoted carries some factors to be considered that includes your potential ability for the certain jobs, passion and dedication. Seniority is a factor for promotion, but capacity and competence should take precedence. The employee need not always involve a pay raise but it may involve either an improvement in the employee’s status, in his chances for advancement, or in greater job satisfaction, or better working conditions.

A promotion represents an employee’s upward movement in the organization ladder.

NGCP pledges 138-hectare reforestation project in M’nao NEARLY one month before the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) starts its Environmental Awareness Year, it advances the celebration through formalizing its commitment to implement a 138-hectare reforestation project in Mindanao.

On December 3, 2013, together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and its City Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENRO), NGCP signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to commence greening projects in four sites in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental in Northern Mindanao. Local government units (LGUs), the academe, and non-government organizations were also in full support of the development of reforestation areas.

The project was conducted in accordance with NGCP and DENR’s agreements to plant a hundred trees for every tree that will be cleared to make way for the construction of transmission lines. For this MOA, the projects involved are the Kirahon-Maramag

230 kiloVolt (kV) transmission line project traversing the provinces of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon, and the Kibawe-Davao 138kV re-routing project passing through Bukidnon and Davao del Sur. Sixty hectares of the reforestation area will be developed in collaboration with the LGU of Impasugong, Bukidnon and Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon CENRO. Central Mindanao University (CMU) and People’s Organization, MISFAMILDA, will each be developing 30 hectares in close coordination with Pangantucan, Bukidnon CENRO and Don Carlos, Bukidnon CENRO, respectively. The remaining 18 hectares will be under the care of the LGU of Naawan, Misamis Oriental and Initao, Misamis Oriental CENRO. NGCP Spokesperson Atty.

Cynthia Perez-Alabanza underscored the importance of replenishing the areas that will be traversed by current and future transmission line projects. “NGCP assures its customers and stakeholders that it places utmost impor-

tance on replenishing trees through these reforestation projects. NGCP maintains strict environmental protocols that are in line with guidelines mandated by the DENR and its sub-agencies. “ NGCP is a privately owned corporation in charge of operating, maintaining, and developing the country’s power grid. It transmits high-voltage electricity through “power superhighways” that include the interconnected system of transmission lines, towers, substations, and related assets. As a socially responsible company, it is committed to create a sustainable environment and protect the natural resources particularly in areas hosting its transmission facilities.

OROQUIETA CIT Y – With seven (7) Inter-color Teams from different departments of the provincial government together with other national agencies whose participation during the 84th Founding Anniversary of Misamis Occidental and the 4th Pasungko Sig MisOcc Festival of Festivals again show their winning moments during the opening ceremonies of the 2013 “Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo” to celebrate the Christmas Seasons.

Said inter-color teams made the opening ceremonies in a festive mood with their Christmas Characters and Symbols lighted infront of the Provincial Capitol grounds after a 45 minutes Musical Pyrotechnic and fireworks Display and a sumptuous eat all you can dinner with the Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park (MOAP) Ocean Grill Restaurant which catered the evening.

On her part, Lady Governor Hermie M. Ramiro who send message of why Misamis Occidental should celebrate the yuletide season amidst financial constraint and with its mission with sympathy to the victims and survivors of the Super Typhoon “Yolanda”.

Cancelled their employees night and Christmas parties instead a 1.5 Million donations and other packed relief goodies are now ready for distribution to three most devastated provinces; Samar ,Leyte, and Ormoc will benefit from the province donations and employees

MARAJAW NA PASKO UG MANIGONG BAG-ONG TUIG SA TANAN SURIGAONON! CHEROBERT TRADING DISTRIBUTOR OF RC COLA DEALER OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES OWNERS: RUBY AND TATA DARAMAN Pvt. PALMERA MABUA, TANDAG CITY

HABAGAT VIDEO K-BAR

MARAJAW NA PASKO UG MANIGONG BAG-ONG TUIG SA TANAN SURIGAONON!

AND ADVANCED HAPPY BIRTHDAY ON JAN. 1, 2014 TO

CHEROBERT TRADING

MARAJAW NA PASKO UG MANIGONG BAG-ONG TUIG SA TANAN SURIGAONON! P-9, BILANG-BILANG, SURIGAO CITY

MY WIFE:

MRS. L AURA NAVARRO

GREETINGS FROM:

PROPRIETOR:

ROMEO H. NAVARRO AND FAMILY

Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

By PJTREMEDAL, correspondent

By: Jonah B. Alguso-Merangeran Elementary School Quezon 1 District, Quezon, Bukidnon

service, trainings and development attended, as well as outstanding performance rendered in the service that need to be validated by the higher official before elevating to higher positions. In my experience, it took five years after being promoted from teacher 1 to teacher 2. and perhaps it will take more years to be promoted again and hoping it will be soon. That’s why i pursue graduate studies for preparation and professional growth as well, to improve my teaching skills and capabilities to discharge my best service to the school children and even to the less fortunate one.

Every employee performs his job well for many reasons

northmin . westmin . caraga . davao

MisOcc opens ‘Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo’ 2013

PROMOTION: An Aspiration of Every Employee When an employee accepts a job, he does not expect to stay in the same job throughout his life. He looks forward to be shifted to another job which will give him greater satisfaction or higher remuneration. To realize this, the employee does his job well, tries to improve himself, and acquire the skills and experiences needed for higher jobs. When he moved to a position of higher category, involving more complex duties and greater challenges and responsibilities, his movement is considered promotion.

In the Department of Education, promotion of teachers depend highly on educational qualification, meritorious accomplishments, length of

Mindanao Daily 5 NEWS

DISTRIBUTOR OF RC COLA DEALER OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES OWNERS: RUBY AND TATA DARAMAN Pvt. PALMERA MABUA, TANDAG CITY

MARAJAW NA PASKO UG MANIGONG BAG-ONG TUIG SA TANAN CLAVERNON! HON. EDDIE PATAN GOKIANGKEE MUNICIPAL MAYOR

HON. GEORGIA DY GOKIANGKEE NO. ONE MEMBER, SANGGUNIANG BAYAN CLAVER, SURIGAO DEL NORTE

Inter-Color teams Christmas Symbols/Characters adds life to Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo 2013 that opens on Friday.

Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo spreads its theme: “Panag-Inambitay, Paghigugma-ay Atong Kalipay” is a also a gesture of sympathy to the victims of super Typhoon “Yolanda” that hit and devastated the Visayan Region. Misamis Occidental donated relief goods and cash donations amounting to P1.5 Million. photos by mae patrecio eduque

contributions.

“Goodwill to all mankind is the real meaning of Christmas, and with the devastated Visayan provinces, Misamisnons will send a gesture of sympathy for the victims and survivors thru this donations and contributions.” Governor Ramiro said.

The second message is for the employees who once and every Christmas always crave for their Productivity Enhancement Incentive, the lady governor told them that they will received it according to COA Rules and Regulations.

“Yes, as I speak before you this evening. You will certainly receive your Christmas Bonuses but

tonight I cannot say how much but there will be an amount for you and your family to spend a joyous Christmas and I also hope that by the coming New Year, it will be another safe year 2014 for all of us, free from all emergencies and calamities.” She said.

With this year theme: “Pag-Inambitay, Paghinigugma-ay Atong Kalipay”, the opening of the Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo was a success. Meanwhile, The Christmas Capital of Misamis Occidental, Tangub City opens its door to visitors as it opens last December 1, 2013 with thousands of Tangubanons welcome the Yuletide Seasons with lights and fireworks display.

MARAJAW NA PASKO UG MANIGONG BAG-ONG TUIG SA TANANG SURIGAONON!

PSUPT. JOSEPH R. NOHARA

SURIGAO CITY POLICE STATION SURIGAO CITY

6 Mindanao Daily NEWS

Opinion

northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Editor: ALLAN M. MEDIANTE, Email: amediante@yahoo.com

Mindanao Daily NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

The Mindanao Daily nORTHMIN, Mindanao Daily CARAGA , mindanao daily westmin and , Mindanao Daily DAVAO newspapers are published daily by MINDANAO DAILY NEWS at Door 2, Tanleh Building, Abellanosa St., Brgy. Consolacion, Cagayan de Oro City. It is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Region 10 with Certififcate No. 01791042, and with Business Permit No. 201313231, TIN No. 209-980-927, Tel. Nos: (088) 856-3344, (08822)72-33-44, 0917-7121424, 0947-8935776 E-mail: mindanaodaily.ads@gmail.com, mindanaodailynews@gmail.com Website: www.businessweekmindanao.com

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Softdrinks can cause diabetes and obesity

MINDANAO DAILY NEWS Publisher ALLAN M. MEDIANTE Editor-in-Chief Nelson v. constantino Executive Editor- Business ruel pelone Managing Editor cheng ordoÑez Associate Editor CRIS DIAZ Executive Editors Shaun Alejandrae Yap Uy Lifestyle Editor glenn palacio Lifestyle Photographer Arjay Felicilda Assistant Editor felix santillan RONALD MASTAIL CLIFFORD SANTILLAN Layout Artists Rene Michael BaÑos Regional Editor-Northmin PAT SAMONTE CHRIS PANGANIBAN Regional Editors-Caraga AL JACINTO Regional Editor-WestMin irene dayo Reporter-NorthMin gerry lee gorit Photo Journalist ATTY. MARIO T. JUNI NOTARY PUBLIC- JUNI LAW OFFICE CELL NO: 09352379999/ (088) 8573595 CRUZ TAAL ST., CAG. DE ORO CITY Legal Counsel ---------------------------------------------------------------

ADMINISTRATION

ROSE MARY D. SUDARIA, Ph.D. General Manager MER SUDARIA HR Manager DOLLY PELONE Comptroller melanie rivera shIela GOSANES lovely mae casenas SWEETIE CASENAS MERCY PECONADA Advertising orlan bulotamo Circulation ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARKETING staff

JOHN DEL BANDO gracelle mae beber candy macabale - 09161326483 LIEZL A. DELOSO - 0905-2123718 JOE PALABAO - 0905-1569709 ED MAINIT - 0915-6590273 RIZA O. ARES - 0915-9753277/0920-9600223 North Buk. - DAHLIA S. BENEMERITO-0926-858-2013

SOUTH Bukidnon-MILDRED BORBON TORREJAS

KIBAWE, BUKIDNON - ROSEMARY GENON Iligan City - JEFFREY OPONDA-0936-1174378 tubod - louie bukod-0948-1323348 OROQUIETA CITY - PJ TREMEDAL-0919-3452375 ARMM - Sony Sudaria-0947-4810371 cotabato - ANALISA ESPAÑOLA-0916-9351714 davao - MARLON GAYOG-09276314995 davao - tom a. caballero-09105783126 davao - JOY MONTEZA-09479662790 butuan - PAT SAMONTE-0912-8091093 san frans - CRIS PANGANIBAN-09277974193 San Francisco - deding PANGANBAN-0927-7974193 Tandag City - GEN CANTOR-0929-5817116 Pagadian City - GRACE FRANCISCO Pagadian City - CRISMON LLANOS Member: ORO CHAMBER Philippine Press Institute

Habitual drinking of softdrinks can increase risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even cancer, according to a Harvard research which reported that people who drink at least 12 ounces of soda daily are 50% more likely to develop a condition that can lead to coronary artery disease, stroke and diabetes.

T

- Mindanao Daily News, December 10, 2013 -

he government is within its right to restrict behavior to protect health based on the constitutional fiat, particularly Section 15, Article II of the 1987 Constitution which provides that the State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill consciousness among them, according to a lawmaker. Thus a Bill is now being filed to inform the public that soda s or softdrinks can cause diabetes and obesity.

Research says a bottle of a regular 8-ounce soda is loaded with five heaping tablespoons of sugar but authorities are now saying that a can of soda contains about 10 teaspoons of sugar.

“Any health provider would simply recommend that adults consume less than six teaspoons of sugar a day while kids, only three teaspoons. Thus Health authorities have warned that excessive intake of soda, which some say is habituating can send one’s blood sugar shooting up,” a congressman said.

Habitual soda guzzling can increase risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even cancer, according to a Harvard research which reported that people who drink at least 12 ounces of soda daily are 50% more likely to develop a condition that can lead to coronary artery disease, stroke and diabetes.

To disseminate information through advertisements, techniques or schemes on the promise of gain such as prizes in cash or in kind as reward for the purchase of soda, soft drink or sweetened drink which

is more that 16 ounces per bottle or container in a contest should be prohibited,

The bill also prohibits the giving of samples and donations of soda products more than 16 ounces per bottle .

Manufacturers should post factual health contents and nutritional claims, especially its sugar content, in the label, product’s container or bottle. It shall include an understandable message in Filipino printed on it with the words, “IMPORTANT NOTICE,” or their equivalent as its heading, the Bill stated.

Also, manufacturers are required to include in the content signage in all containers or bottles of soda products or sweetened drinks the statement, “DRINKING SODA CAUSES OBESITY AND DIABETES,” the Bill states.

These are desirable measures but the government should ensure that the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the DOST issue the necessary rules and regulations once an Act is implemented.

The bill imposes a penalty of 6 years imprisonment or a fine of P100,000 or both against violators.

To be fair, since soda production is a huge pillar of the Philippine economy, it is worthwhile that all efforts should be exhausted to really determine whether it is only soda that causes the said health risks. Why not also come out with a reliable research that other foods in the market today are also harmful and may cause the same ailments.

EDITORIAL

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Opinion

Diverse power mix needed to sustain growth, reduce poverty in Mindanao IT is ironic how the reality of climate change which is wreaking havoc on global weather patterns should be the very reason why Mindanao should adopt a more diverse power mix than what it has at present.

When government developed the hydroelectric power plants in the island over a period of five decades, the cheap electricity drew power intensive heavy industries which set up shop in Iligan City and the Phividec Industrial Estate in Misamis Oriental.

However, over the years irresponsible logging decimated the forests where the rivers which powered these hydroelectric complexes originated, resulting in a series of crippling power crises that derailed development targets for economic growth and poverty reduction.

Figures from the National Statistics Coordination

Board (NSCB) show Mindanao’s economic performance slowed d o w n from 4.7% in 2009-201o, to only 3.2% in 2010-2011, way below the national average of 7.6% and 3.9%, respectively.

As if this wasn’t enough, poverty incidence for 2003, 2006 and 2009 showed an upward trend from 36.8 to 37.8 and 39.6%. Again, in stark contrast to the national figures of 24.9%, 26.4% and 26.5% over the same period.

This, despite the presence of growth drivers like agri-industrial development where it significantly contributed to the national economy for the production of rubber (100%), pineapple (88.4%), banana (82.2%), coffee (76.4%), coconut (58.7%) and corn (52.3%) (source: Bureau of Agricultural Statistics)

Although new opportunities appear to be arising with the progress attained in the peace process with the MILF, renewed interest in BIMP-EAGA, the integration of priority sectors with the ASEAN Economic Community by 2015 (agribased goods,ICT, fisheries, rubber-based goods, tourism, and wood-based products), daunting challenges remain.

Among them: constraints to meet the increasing power demand driven by a progressive economy.

Although the national government recognizes the importance of promoting the development of additional generating capacities of 1,130.5MW in the Mindanao grid and 29.2MW in off-grid areas, stark realities need to be surmounted if these targets are to be met and development kept on-

Asenso Mindanaw

No such thing as ‘clean coal’

By Nixon Baban, Chairman, Bangon Kagay-an, Inc.

THERE is no such thing as Clean Coal. Admittedly, the technology used by Steag and the one FDC intends to introduce are better than the old ones, but they are not modern as they claim them to be.

The Electrostatic Precipator (ESP) installed on the plants’ chimneys are simply a filtering device that will remove fine particulate matter from the airstream, and the circulating fluidized bed (CFB) is simply a combustion technology that controls the emission of sulfur through limestones fed into the furnace. Many of the coal plants now retired in the United States and in China already have them.

NEPC, FDC’s contractor is one of the biggest names in China’s electric generating construction industry - thanks to it, China has to spend US$ 275B over the next 5 years to clean its air. Its smog has already polluted Korea’s airspace, and Seoul residents have to wear masks now.

No doubt, this “clean coal technology (carbon capture & storage)” can reduce the emission of harmful toxic waste that may include gases, but as to whether the amount is significant, this remains to be debatable. Furthermore, there is no basis for Filinvest CEO Josephine Gotianun Yap’s claim on TV Patrol North Mindanao edition that FDC can

From the mail

See clean, page 11

track.

The Mindanao Strategic Development Framework (2010-2020) recognized the island needs between 200-300MW of additional power every 3 years to meet growing demand and support the attainment of economic targets.

At present, Mindanao has insufficient base load generating capacity at less than 40% compared to Luzon (63.9%) and the Visayas (71.9%).Source: The Urgent Need to Increase Baseload Generating Capacity in Mindanao, Philippine Institute for Development Studies.

Generation capacity is insufficient to meet both energy demand and reserve requirements In 2012, Peak Demand was 1,321MW, of which the Agus complex supplied 727MW or 39.96% of total installed capacity.

Although the Interim See POWER, page 10

Traversing the Tourism Hi-way Ped T. Quiamjot

Rhapsody in Maramag ALTERNATING in the fields are sights of verdant greens of corn and sugar cane plantations. From the sky it looks like a camouflaged of allure vegetation from fertile soil that signify the growth of agriculture.

Maramag is emerging as the top sugar cane producer in the province of Bukidnon.

With sugar as its primary produce, it has eclipsed other top sugar producing provinces in the Philippines.

Statistics from the Sugar Millers Association of the Philippines shows more gross tonnage production from the combined sugar centrals of Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac and Roxaco of Nasugbo in Batangas.

Sugar had long regarded

as the primary ingredients of the food and beverage industry has also other various applications in the pharmaceuticals and alcohol distilleries. How did this fate turn out in the biggest province of Mindanao? Busco Sugar Milling which was founded by the Benedicto and Nieto family was bought by a consortium after the fall of the Marcos regime. It is now headed by a former banker, Roman Ozaeta, Jr. who steered the rehabilitation of the milling plant. Not long after the operation of Busco Sugar another modern milling facilities spin off from the investment of the Lorenzo and Lobregat families who See RHAPSODY, page 11

Feast of the Immaculate Conception reset on December 9 THE Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary is traditionally observed by Catholics every December 8 of the year.

But for this year, the celebration of the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is moved to the next day, December 9.

Why is this so?

It is because December 8 this year happens to fall on the Second Sunday of Advent. But traditions are hard to break.

Many cathedrals, churches and chapels were established in honor of the

My Simple Thoughts Uriel Cabaraban Quilinguing Immaculate Conception of Mary, hence Catholic believers celebrate the feast on Monday.

So, let it be since the Blessed Virgin Mary is the Patroness of the Philippines.

And as we celebrate, we

have to be reminded that it is the saving work of God in preserving the Blessed Virgin Mary from the stain of original sin that makes her role extraordinarily significant.

“Because of His fore-

knowledge that Mary would consent to bear Christ, God kept Mary free from original sin from the moment of her conception in the womb of her mother, Saint Anne,” according to About.com Catholicism website.

This reminded me of what I learned in high school and college attending classes in Christian Humanism and Religious Studies.

Well, that’s what we believe in as Catholics, hence we celebrate the solemnity on Monday (December 9) since Sunday is the Second Sunday in Advent.

Mindanao Daily 7 NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Editor: ALLAN M. MEDIANTE, Email: amediante@yahoo.com

The hypocrisy of coal plants and the FDC? HUNDREDS of flights were cancelled Friday last week in China’s commercial capital of Shanghai due to a record high air pollution that shrouded the city in the smog. The smog covered almost everything, including skyscraper buildings, that almost engulfed the entirety of the People’s Square building in the city’s central district.

Carbon dioxide of various thermal Cris Diaz plants, coal plants, and manufacturing industries were the main culprits of the highest level of air pollution that now threatens the world’s second financial district. Two weeks ago, China has announced that they are phasing out construction of the coal plants starting next year after studies showed that the plant was the number one source of carbon dioxide emission there. The measure was part of Beijing and Shanghai’s “pilot” measures to cut off the rising rate of air pollution in mainland China.

The smog that covered China’s financial capital of Shanghai has shown that air pollution there has reached an irreversible level. Obviously, China’s air pollution has now threatened the health of its people. In fact, people from all walks of life used protective masks as business went through Shanghai last Friday.

The Philippines is not an exception to the rising effects of air pollution. As one commutes the main street of EDSA, smog covers its extent to no end. From the sky, more often, dark clouds appearing like rain clouds covers the expanse of Metro Manila. People would say that the smog came from hundreds of carbon dioxide emitted by moving vehicles in the streets of the country’s capital city. Manila, however, has yet to level off with China’s irreparable level of air pollution. The Philippine government ‘tough would not allow it to happen.

Malacanang has ordered a review of all plants and manufacturing industries in the country with large amounts of carbon emissions. Malacanang intends to arrest the alarming rate of air pollution in the country as part of the government’s new policy on climate change mitigation. The new directive came out two weeks after the Super Typhoon Yolanda wrought havoc in the country’s central regions in the Visayas.

Is President Benigno Aquino III joking? The stakeholders of the P 30 billion coal-fired power plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental boost that Malacanang has given them the go signal to put up the “most hated” coal plant in the province. “President Aquino himself approved the construction of the coal plant which led to See COAL, page 11

Gratitude Fresh Gospel of the day: M a t t h e w 1 8 : 1 2 14(December10, 2013-Tuesday) Matthew 18:12-14-How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?

And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that [sheep], than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish: This gospel reminds us the big love of God to each one of us. Why? In Ezekiel 18:23-have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live? Take note, feast will be done in heaven if one soul repented. Are you a lost sheep? Luke 15:6-7-And when he cometh home, he calleth together [his] friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you,

Biblical reflection

Bro. Edcel L. Closas that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

Remember, God forgives us because He loves us so much. In Jeremiah 31:3-The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying], Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee. Therefore, love God as your gratitude to Him: SPONSORED:Neneth - Bobong Balino- Dr. Edith, PhD- Tony Jordan - CDO. St. Peter Calungsod, pray for us! Listen: Radio Ultra AM-1188-3:30 PM Sunday: #0928414949009266607505: Question – Prayer request

8 Mindanao Daily NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

WestMin News

tuesday | december 10, 2013

Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Zamboanga del Norte | Zamboanga del Sur | Zamboanga Sibugay | Dipolog City | Dapitan City | Pagadian City | Isabela City | Zamboanga City

Zambo water firm to install power generators in all production wells ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Z amb o an g a C it y Wat e r District (ZCWD) is set to install power generators to all of the ZCWD’s production wells next year to better serve the thousands of water concessionaires of this city.

ZCWD Information Officer Dolores Galvan said Monday they have a total of 22 production wells in the different parts of this city and three don’t have power generators.

Galvan said the three production wells without power generator sets are located in Sitio Malasiga, San Roque; Sitio Lumiyap, Divisoria; and, in Barangay Lunzuran.

Galvan said these three production wells are dependent on the Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (Zamcelco), which means there is no water during brownout.

T he Z C W D has c on structed production wells to augment the water it supplies coming from its main reservoir in Barangay Pasonanca to its thousands of concessionaires. (PNA) EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTELEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED FELICISIMO DEMETILA WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE Notice is hereby given that the intestate estate of the Late FELICISIMO DEMETILA, who died on October 1, 2006 in Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City; left a parcel of land located at Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City, more particularly described as follows: TAX DECLARATION NO. ______ CAD/Pls 369-D Case:2 Lot 20626, Location: Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City, Total Area: 13,901 square meters is the subject of EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED FELICISIMO DEMETILA WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE made and executed by and among the HEIRS OF FELICISIMO DEMETILA, namely: 1. EMILIANA M. DEMETILA, of legal age, widow, Filipino, surviving wife of the deceased, and resident of P-3 Dansolihon, Cagayan City; 2. JOEL M. DEMETILA, of legal age, Filipino, married, surviving son of the deceased and resident of P-3 Dansolihon, Cagayan City; 3. VICTORICO M. DEMETILA, of legal age, Filipino, married, surviving son of the deceased, and resident of P-3, Dansolihon, Cagayan City; 4.

FEDELITA D. ODIAS, of legal age, Filipino, married, surviving daughter of the deceased and resident of P-3, Dansolihon, Cagayan City; 5. JULITO M. DEMETILA, of legal age, Filipino, married, surviving son of the deceased and resident of P-3, Dansolihon, Cagayan City; 6. LILIOSA D. NACALABAN, of legal age, Filipino, married, surviving daughter of the deceased and resident of P-3, Dansolihon, Cagayan City; that the above-named parties, all of legal age, are the wife and the legitimate children and the sole/compulsory/ surviving heirs of the deceased. That for and in consideration of the sum of TWENTY THOUSAND PESOS (P20,000.00), receipt in full is hereby acknowledged from JORGEA A. CORPORAL, of legal age, Filipino, single and resident of Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City, WE, THE HEIRS OF FELICISIMO DEMELITA, do hereby SELL, TRANSFER, and CONVEY, to the JORGEA A. CORPORAL, a portion of the above-described real property containing an area of TWO HUNDRED TWENTY FIVE (225) square meters (at 15 meters x 15 meters dimesion) plus a road-right-of –way on 1 meter width x 50 meters long, as the property sold is an interior lot from the road. As per Doc. No. 211; Page No. 43; Book No. 176; Series of 2013; under Notary Public of ATTY. MARIO T. JUNI. MDN: NOV. 26, DEC. 3 & 10, 2013

Drive-by shooting kills man in Zamboanga City

Z

A M B OA N G A CITY – One civilian was killed in a drive-by shooting Sunday in the southern Filipino port city of Zamboanga, police said.

It said Nasser Alsabri was killed instantly after a drive-by shooting in Tetuan - two days after motorcycle gunmen also shot and wounded Maria Victoria C. Montaño, assistant to Ateneo de Zambioanga University president Fr Karel San Juan in the same village.

Police said the Alsabri’s attackers were armed with automatic rifle. It was unknown if there was any witness to the attack. Alsabri was on a motorcycle when shot along Marquez Drive.

The victim’s family did not give any statement to the press about the killing, but gun attacks are common in Zamboanga where hired killers actively operate.

Many of the killings in Zamboanga remain unsolved.

Montaño’s shooting is also unresolved. She was shot while

A police checkpoint in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

heading home in a car with her 14-year old son who was unscathed from the attack.

The gunmen fled after the shooting. The motive of the attack is still unknown and police said Montaño is being closely guarded at the hospital where

she was rushed shortly after the shooting.

Police said the gunmen shot the woman several times with a 9mm pistol. At least 8 bullet shells were recovered from the area.

No individual claimed responsibility for the shooting,

but the news attack of the attack quickly spread among Ateneo students who condemned the violence. There was no immediate statement from the Ateneo de Zamboanga University about the attack on its employee. (Mindanao Examiner)

Polanco town kicks off Septuagenarian Christmas symbols tilt man killed in Isabela City

By FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON

POLANCO, Zamboanga del Norte – Christmas s y mb ol s c omp e t it i ons h i g h l i g ht e d t h e 6 2 n d founding anniversary of this municipality yesterday, bringing joy and fun to the townspeople here.

Using indigenous materials, the Christmas symbols erected at the town plaza were the nativity of Jesus Christ, Sta. Claus and gift-loaded carousel, Christmas candles, and Christmas comet.

Aside from the Christmas symbols competitions, singing and dance contests were also held.

In her anniversary message, Vice Mayor Faith

C. Penados said the new administration’s goals are two-pronged: the welfare of the people and the growth of the municipality.

Penados, who represented Mayor Roberto Uy Jr. as the latter is now under medication for his sprained hands, disclosed that the new administration would concentrate on giving both livelihood and infrastructure projects to improve the living condition of its constituents.

The town’s 62nd founding anniversary has for its theme, “On the way to its vision of a poverty-free municipality by 2030.”

Christmas candles by Polanco National High

School annexes won first place in the Christmas symbols competitions, followed by the Sta. Claus and gift-loaded carousel of Department of Education (DepED)-Polanco II district, and third place went to the Christmas comet by Polanco National High School-main campus.

The fun-filled activities here will last until next week, as the municipality will be hosting for the third time the annual provincial athletic meet, which will be participated in by the different elementary and secondary athletic delegations from all over the province. (FPG-PIA9)

BASILAN PROVINCE – Gunmen shot dead a septuagenarian member of the Catholic fraternal benefits organization Knight of Columbus in an attack in Isabela City, police said Sunday.

Police said B enjamin Miranda, 70, was driving his motorcycle when gunmen shot him in the village of Lanote.

Miranda, a former village official, died on the spot. The assailants, who were riding tandem on a motorcycle, fled after

the shooting.

The motive of the killing is unknown and local government officials did not give any statement about the murder.

No i n d i v i d u a l o r group claimed responsibility for the attack, but killings are common in Isabela City where guns for hire actively operate and is largely blamed for the spate of murders.

Police said it is investigating the killing of Miranda. (Mindanao Examiner)

R.A. 9048/10172 Form No. 10.1 (LCRO) Republic of the Philippines Province of Lanao del Norte Municipality of Lala OFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with Rule 7 R.A. Act No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that HAZEL LABRADOR AGLUGOB has filed with this Office a Petition for Correction of GENDER from “M” to “FEMALE” in the Certificate of Live Birth of HAZEL ALIA LABRADOR who was born on JULY 24, 1979 at Lala, Lanao del Norte whose parents are WENIFREDO P. LABRADOR and JULIETA L. ALIA.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file written opposition with this Office not later than 15 days.

(Sgd.) MARICHU M.SANCHEZ, MBA., MA.

Municipal Civil Registrar MDN: Dec. 3 & 10, 2013

Fishermen in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte rush to the shore when strong rains hit the coast Sunday morning (8 Dec 2013). (MindaNews photo by Bobby Timonera)

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Davao News

Mindanao Daily 9 NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

DAVAO DEL NORTE l DAVAO DEL SUR lDAVAO DEL ORIENTALl COMPOSTELA VALLEY

CSC honors Digos Philhealth for outstanding performance

D

IGOS CITY – The Civil Service Commission Davao del Sur field office recently honored here the PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) of Digos City for bagging this year’s ARTA Citizen Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award.

CSC DavSur provided the recognition in a recent CSC DavSur Trilogy Event at Corjesu College in Digos City, after CSC conferred the said award to PhilHealth Digos in October this year for earning an excellent rating in its performance and service in 2012.

CSC DavSur provincial director Richard Ortiz said

that the local PhilHealth deserved to be recognized as it was the first time for the province to receive such an honor since 2010 when CSC started giving awards to agencies complying excellently with the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007.

Aside from a trophy of the ARTA Citizen Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence Award, Ortiz said the LHIO also received a cash prize of P100,000 from CSC in an awarding ceremony held in October in Davao City which was headed by CSC chair Francisco Duque III. The PhilHealth LHIO Digos City gained a numerical rating of 92.55 percent which is equivalent to a descriptive rating of “Excellent” in its frontline service delivery and performance and compliance to ARTA provisions.

Ortiz emphasized that efficiency and promptness

must always be provided in every government office just like what PhilHealth LHIO Digos City gives to its clientele.

He said his office intends to intensify the conduct of surprise visits to government agencies in Davao del Sur to check on their compliance of ARTA. He added that he will also bring information to private sectors aiming to raise awareness and vigilance on ARTA provisions and requirements.

“So our private sectors will be aware and accordingly demand for the right services of our agencies and they could raise appropriate complaints if there are,” Ortiz told human resource and development officers and representatives from various government national and local agencies during the recent CSC DavSur Trilogy Event.

(PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)

DAVAO CITY - Doing business in Free Trade Areas (FTA) would give businessmen the leeway to fight for better competition, said Nestor Palabyab, Trade and Industry deputy executive director.

He said exporters in light of the implementation of the Free Trade Agreements among seven ASEAN countries can now ask government to give them remedies to meet global competition.

“They (exporters) deserve those remedies,” he said.

Palabyab confirmed Philippine exporters meet many challenges with the implementation of FTA. "However, exporters could always complain or file a case to level the playing field."

Aside from providing opportunities, the FTA has rid of many barriers in the exporting business such excessive tariff rates, Palabyab said .

He mentioned product quality as one of the challenge which the world of FTA brings to Philippine exporters.

“Your product must be acceptable,” he said adding that FTA brings Philippine businessmen to a bigger world of business.

In the absence of FTA, the minds of businessmen are very “domestic-focused,” he said saying that FTA improves the awareness of Philippine exporters that their product could be the best sellers in the world resulting to a thriving business. (PNA)

PHL exporters can fight for competition in light of FTA

Located @ Lot 20 Blk 12 Zone 5 Scions Sub. Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City

For inquiries call or text us: landline: 8587072 Globe: 09177056914 Smart: 09192972418 Sun: 09231697871

KIMBERLITE PAWNSHOP MALAYBALAY BRANCH

Kimberlite Pawnshop will be having an AUCTION SALE on all items that expired on October 2013 AUCTION DATE: December 12, 2013 Estrada Bldg., Fortich-Don Carlos Sts., Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Davao Oriental on a rainy Thursday noon (28 November 2013). Though not completely back in form, it is no longer a sorry sight as it was after super typhoon Pablo battered the town on December 4, 2012. (MindaNews photo by Gregorio Bueno)

Tagum grabs twin victory in NAMCYA The City of Tagum cemented its claim as the premier Music Capital of the South and the training-ground of future musicians with the twin victory of two Tagum-based school rondalla groups in the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in Manila recently.

The Tagum City National High School Rondalla bested 12 other rondalla groups across the country with its historic clinch of the championship prize in NAMCYA’s rondalla category. The 20-member group is trained by two-time NAMCYA-qualifying Marlon Saga.

The Tagum City National Comprehensive High School

trained by veteran Lorna Mendoza was declared first honorable mention in the said category.

Mayor Allan L. Rellon led local government leaders in paying tribute to the team who gave pride and honor not only to Tagum City but for the entire Davao Region.

Cash incentives were given to the two groups during the LGU’s monthly convocation program last December 2.

Saga, in an interview with the City Information Office, extended their group’s appreciation to the local government for all its support, which he acknowledged as one of the ingredients of their success.

In its website, the Cultural Center of the Philippines said “NAMCYA has been a principal instrument in discovering major music talents from all over the country whose projects involved countless musicians, trainers and administrators, all serving in the difficult but fulfilling process of selecting the best artists from all seventeen regions of the nation annually.”

Part of the top-caliber jury in the rondalla category this year is Rondalla pioneers Maestro Celso Espejo and his daughter Elaine, NCCA Chairman Felipe de Leon, Dr. Ramon Santos and Atty.

Orly Ocampo. Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum

10 Mindanao Daily NEWS

Fun Page

northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Power... from page 7

Mindanao Electricity Market (IMEM) just started operations last week, consumer watchdog groups believe it will not encourage generators to make available their idle capacities since the seller’s market would make the power too expensive for the distribution utilities.

Not the least, government (PSALM/NPC) is no longer allowed to incur new financial obligations or contract additional capacities.

All this, despite the stark reality that Mindanao indeed needs new capacities.

Hydropower still comprises over 50% of total power generated in Mindanao. During the regular maintenance of Agus 1 in February 2013, Mindanao experienced 8 to 12-hour blackouts in key cities and municipalities of Mindanao.

According to the DOE (February 2013), the hydro power plants in Agus and Pulangui are only at 65%

available capacity based on actual operations reports from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).* Without additional capacities, the shortfall in Mindanao would continue to widen. When Pulangui did maintenance in April 2012, having its 225MW under maintenance resulted in rotating brownouts of up to 5-6 hours in Region 9; 4-10 hours in various areas of Region 10; 4-6 hrs in Region 11; 2-8 hrs in Region 12 and 2-4 hrs in the Caraga Region. (Source: National Electrification Administration and the DOE) Fortunately perhaps, there are now a number of coal-fired power plants being set up in four Mindanao regions which will start rolling out additional capacities by 2015: 900MW in Davao region, 815MW in Northern Mindanao; 100MW in Soccskargen and 100MW in Zamboanga peninsula.

These plants will be add-

clifford’s

Daily HOROSCOPE AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18) - Your amazing energy is almost too good to be true -yet there it is, all the same. Make the most of it and have fun with whatever comes your way today.

Things should be really moving fast!

PISCES (February 19 – March 20) - You’re more open to change than usual -- or at least you should be! Resistance is nearly futile, so you may as well embrace it and see if you can profit from what you can see coming.

ARIES (March 21 – April 19) - You may feel like you’re living in a science fiction film today -- things are moving quickly, and you may be excited to see new possibilities open up before your eyes. Enjoy the future!

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) - Your conservative side is out in force today -- though it may just be pining for old times, rather than making political or social statements. Try not to get dragged into any big fights!

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) - Your big brain is making waves today -- in the best way possible, of course! All that great energy should help you to convince others that your ideas are worth pursuing, so speak with confidence.

ing critically needed baseload power throughout the Mindanao grid, and decrease the island’s dependence on hydro whose capacities has been adversely degraded by changing weather patterns, deforestation of critical watersheds and the inability of government to repair and rehabilitate them for lack of funds.

The coal plants would drastically change Mindanao’s power mix and significantly improve its baseload generating capacity to a more balanced and affordable one with the hydro-plants re-allocated to mid-loads and the more expensive diesel plants coming in progressively decreasing frequency for peaking loads as more and more baseload generating capacity is rolled out by the new coal fired power plants.

Some stakeholders have expressed alarm over the increasing share of coal in the Mindanao power mix but beside decreasing the share of expensive oil-fired diesel plants in the power mix during peak hours (and lowering electric bills through the cheaper generation charge), the allegations of increasing greenhouse gases and other fears have proved unfounded.

For one, the leading contributors to Global Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) from carbon dioxide (CO2) generated by power plants are

China, the U.S., India, the Russian Federation, and Japan (International Energy Agency’s 2012 report).

It is the industrialized countries that contribute more than 50% of the World’s CO2 emissions.

The top 20 emitters contribute almost 90% (an astounding 89.75%) of global GHGs, In contrast, the Philippines only ranks #41 as of the end of 2010 (same rank as in 2008) generating 0.2% of total global GHG, or less than one percent.

According to the DENR, 70% of our CO2 emissions come from the transport sector (with the number of motor vehicles expected to double by 2020) while the remaining 30% is from various industries. Presuming that all those industries are coal power plants, 30% of 0.2% is not significant enough for us to limit our need for development. (Source: Mr. Fedencio Carreon, CENRO, DENR-7, June 3, 2009; and Dr. Alma Madrazo of the Air and Waste Management Association of the Philippines based on their study: “Environment, Climate Change, Energy Efficiency (ECCEE) of Gasoline and Bioethanols.” Proceedings of the 17th Annual Conference of the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines, 2009).

In 2008, the Philippines ranked #40 worldwide in

CIRCLE A WORD dental work

ache braces breath bridge enamel examine extract filling

flouride pain decay dental dentist drill maintain molar

mouth office oral cuspid hygiencist incisor minstruments root canal

teeth tooth treat x-rays crooked health polish problem

rinse cap cavity chair check-up clean gums plaque

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

total annual CO2 emissions contributing 0.29% to the world total. In 2009, it dropped to #43 contributing 0.28%, and dropped further to #46 and 0.22% respectively by 2010.

Ironically, putting constraints on the development of new power plants will undermine Mindanao’s ability to respond to climate change. Rotating brownouts will be perpetuated and will continue to suppress demand, while highly industrialized nations will continue to thumb their noses at us while we continue to be victims of climate change brought by their continued high emissions of CO2.

Furthermore, reducing the country’s CO2 emission by 50% would not have any significant impact worldwide in terms of CO2 emissions while drastically and adversely affecting Mindanao’s economy. The cost of electricity could increase by up to 20 percent.

Mindanao’s current situation calls for a pragmatic approach to a “Balanced Development” where all stakeholders can contribute positively to the triple challenge of climate change, further growing the economy while significantly reducing poverty.

Renewable energy is best but is faces significant constraints such as being site specific (hydro, solar,

biomass), issues in capacity and land area (solar) and the availability of sufficient feedstock to keep the plants going (biomass) According to Agrilectric, U.S., burning one kilogram of rice husks can generate as much as one kilowatt of electricity. However, this would physically mean supplying 200,000 kilos (kgs) of rice husks daily for a 200MW power plant. (Source: Society for the Advancement of Technology Management in the Philippines with the support of the Department of Energy and U.S. Agency for International Development as part of the Technical Assistance to the DOE for Enhancing Private Sector Participation in Renewable Energy. 2008).

A more balanced power mix is the right approach at this time. Shifting to renewable energy remains an option that will become increasingly attractive as Mindanao becomes more developed and prosperous and be able to afford it in the near future.

READ

Mindanao Daily News ONLINE

www.businessweekmindanao.com

SUDOKU How to play the game?

Fill in completely every rows, columns and diagonals of each puzzle without repitition

of the same digit.

Yesterday’s Answer

CANCER (June 22 – July 22) - Conflicts come at a steady pace today -- but you need to pick your battles! Hang back from issues that don’t matter all that much and see if you can just focus on things that really do matter.

LEO (July 23 – August 22) - Patience is essential today, so make sure that you’re going easy on everyone nearby -- especially yourself! It’s easier than ever for you to see things as crises, but skepticism is vital.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) - You find that one little misstep knocks you off-balance for the day -- but it may be that you need to be offbalance now! Try to get your people to see that things are going to be fine.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22) - You need to indulge your intellectual curiosity today -- so start asking questions! You may forge a new connection with someone who’s got a lot more in common with you than you think.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) - You’re going through some weird issues at home -- so you may want to focus your energy there for the time being. Things are sure to get better, but only if you stand up for yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) - You need to open yourself up to new ideas -- which isn’t really all that hard for you. Still, if you don’t do it soon, things could get tough, so make sure that you’re focusing on the wider world.

CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) - You’re right to be skeptical of new plans that pop up today -- what’s wrong with the old ones? Stand your ground and try to get your people to really think things through before they go nuts.

CROSSWORD puzzle

across 33. Bravo 1. Having all necessary 34. Deadly parts 36. Nothing 7. The_Horsemen of the 37. Ore deposit Apocalypse 38. Stirs up 8. Atmosphere DOWN 9. Flat-bottomed boat 1. Young lion 11. Paredes of APO 2. Spoken 13. Aluminum symbol 3. Book leaves 15. Sheltered side 4. Fib 16. Capital of Sulu 5. Erbium symbol 17. Spoil 6. Wicked 19. Thai or Vietnamese 7. Aquatic bird 21. Abraham’s son 10. Respond to a stimu 23. Nephew’s sister lus 25. Of one’s birth 11. Manila bridge 27. Pouch 12. Tiny bit 28. Crazy 14. Pinas City 30. So far 16. _alai 32. Greek letter 18. Series of mountain

20. Creek 22. Triple a 24. Know how to 26. Makati avenue 29. _mater 31. Story 34. Suitable 35. _Banos 36. Nickel symbo

Yesterday’s Answer

Mindanao Daily 11 NEWS

tuesday | december 10, 2013

northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Free... from page 1

December 5, 2013.

Six men shot Dignos on November 29, Friday night in Valencia City, Bukidnon province.

Two witnesses, said Valencia City Police Station investigator PO3 Ibrahim Salvacion, identified Daulong.

Salvacion said Daulong led 20 of his fellow inmates to escape from Valencia City Jail last September 3, 2013.

Daulong is also a suspect in other murder and criminal cases, Salvacion said.

Daulong is still at large, as well as five other unidentified assailants. --cmfrphil.org

Mayor... from page 3

declared all the votes he (Sampiano) garnered as stray and the candidate who placed second in the rankings should be declared the lawful winner of the elections.

The COMELEC then proclaimed and declared petitioner Edna Ogka Benito, who obtained the highest number of votes, as the lawfully elected Mayor of Balabagan, Lanao del Sur. Commissioner Sixto Brillantes, Jr. Chairman of the COMELEC, issued the order dated Nov. 28, 2013.

The other signatories to the Comelec en banc resolution were Commissioners Lucenito N. Tagle, Elias N. Yusoph, Christian Robert S. Lim, Maria Gracia Cielo M. Padaca, Al A. Parreno, and Luis Tito F. Guia.

Group... from page 1

has no handle in determining the maintenance schedule of power plants in a way that ensures energy security and protects public interest. This makes the public vulnerable to possible manipulation of supply to bloat power rates.

According to Meralco, the shutdown of Malampaya and of the other power plants forced it to buy from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) where electricity is being sold at a higher price.

Ibon noted that the private investors who control the power plants are the same investors that dominate the WESM. Thus, it raises a legitimate suspicion that the simultaneous maintenance shutdown of the power plants could have been staged to raise demand for volatile WESM power.

The group explained that the maintenance shutdown of Malampaya started on November 11, the same date that President Benigno Aquino III put the country under a state of calamity because of Yolanda.

Energy officials already knew then that it will trigger a big spike in power rates. At that time, energy supply in Luzon was already tight due to a series of maintenance shutdowns of major power plants. But

instead of ensuring that Malampaya will remain operational, especially in a state of national calamity, government’s response was lacking as the source of 40 percent of Luzon’s power needs was cut off, triggering a new round of huge rate hikes.

Meralco has already implemented a huge increase in power rates in November, raising its rates

by P1.24 per kWh. It cited the maintenance shutdown of several big power plants as the main factor behind the rate hike. These were Malaya power plant Unit 2, Pagbilao plant Unit 2, Sual plant Unit 1, and Sta. Rita Module 20. A number of power plants were also on forced outage, such as the San Lorenzo Module 60, Masinloc plant Unit 1, Calaca plant Unit 2, Quezon Power, and Sual plant Unit 1 in Pangasinan.

Ibon urged Congress to investigate the shutdown of Malampaya and the power plants as well as the WESM to determine if the big power investors are abusing the public through their unhampered control over the energy sector. The group cited its October survey showing that 64 percent of Filipinos already find it difficult paying for power and water.

More importantly, Ibon said that policy makers must reconsider government’s energy development program, in particular the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) of 2001.

The group pointed out that the privatization and deregulation of the power sector under Epira have stripped government of its duty to secure energy supply at a reasonable cost and protect the public interest.

Bonus... from page 1

P30,000 cap was enacted - no longer apply to present circumstances.

“At that time, the lowest monthly basic salary for government employees (Salary Grade 1, Step 1) was P2,800 and that of the President of the Philippines (Salary Grade 33) was at P25,000,” he said.

At present, he added, the basic salaries have been adjusted such that SG-1 Step 1 now stands at P9,000 and SG-33 is at P120,000.

To bolster his position, Recto said that the National Tax Research Center (NTRC) and National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) peg the exemption ceiling estimates as of 2011 at P72,000 and P75,000, respectively, if adjustments for inflation were reckoned from 1994.

Furthermore, the measure also provides that the ceiling of P75,000 shall be adjusted to its present value using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as published by the National Statistics Office (NSO) three years after the measure’s enactment and every three years thereafter.

If passed into law, Recto said the increase in the tax exemption ceiling would translate to a higher take home pay for employees in the private and government sectors alike, particularly during the Christmas season, when the 13th Month Pay and other bonuses are usually released.

“It is of paramount importance that our laws be responsive to the needs of the people. An increase in the ceiling of the 13th Month Pay and other benefits to be exempted from income tax is one of the reliefs the people need during these hard times,” the senator said.

Offers... from page 4

there are two hard hitting commentators of two radio stations in Tandag who are more vulnerable to threats from local officials who are frequent focus of their criticisms on the air.

Pimentel admitted police investigators are facing a blank wall since there was yet no lead as to the identity of the suspects although he already ordered the Police Provincial Office led by Senior Superintendent Antonio Taylan Jr. to conduct a thorough investigation.

“We have to go through tedious judicial process during the police investigation,” Pimentel told Inquirer in a mobile phone interview.

He also assured Trimass members that the provincial government can provide them police security if it is necessary and they could just write a formal request letter through Provincial Police Director Taylan.

The governor has already instructed the entire police force in the province for a no-nonsense probe in response to Malacanang’s pronouncement that a “special investigation task group” will be created to focus on the killing of Milo.

Clash... from page 4

Beniegla was leading a team of the elite 3rd Special Force Battalion to barangay Buhisan in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, when they encountered armed men believed to be NPA fighters.

Cayetano said the soldiers chanced upon the rebels when a resident tipped off the military about their extortion activities in preparation for the upcoming Communist Party of the Philippines anniversary on December 26.

On one hand, Uy said the body of Beniegla will be sent to his home province while Linian and Caleja were brought to a military hospital in Butuan City for treatment.

With the coming 44th anniversary celebration of the NPA on the last week of Decemeber, Uy said the communist rebels will be committing more firefights “to boast” during their celebration.

He, however, said that a period during the Christmas season will be declared

SOMO (suspension of military operations) in observance of traditional ceasefire agreement.

This means the military cannot go on the offensive.

But Uy said the military will be ready for any NPA attack.

“It became clear to the people that the NPA has evolved as human rights violators, terrorists and extortionists. Despite of the incidents we will continue to hunt down the fleeing rebels in order to deny them from launching atrocities against innocents’ civilians,” Cayetano said.

Coal... from page 7

the approval of the its Environment Clearance Certificate (ECC).” The pretentious statement reportedly came from the Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC) and conniving local officials.

Undaunted, the anticoal plant activists vowed to bring the FDC’s case to court. Along with the purported “class suit” would be the indictment of names of national, regional, and local officials who must have shown a blatant disregard of the province’s future environment and the health of the provincial folks.

---0--[Listen to “Alarma sa Udtong Tutok” every 11:00 – 12:00 Mon. to Friday at 95.7 FM Mellow Touch Radio] React: crisguardian@ yahoo.com

Clean... from page 7

reduce the emission of sulfur dioxide by as much as 95%. If this was so, why did not Filinvest disclose this 95% reduction of sulphur dioxide in its ECC (EIA) application with the DENR-EMB. Assuming arguendo this claim is true, the remaining 5% of sulfur dioxide left uncurbed will still pose a danger to the health of the Cagayanons and MisOrnons given the total generating capacity of 725 MW by these three coal plants (Minergy included). A simple analogy would be that of a bottle of red wine that contains less alcohol compared to rhum or whisky. When two persons consume a bottle they would still be clear-headed, but when they consume three bottles, they will end up drunk.

The local government’s program to push through with two more coal fired power plants in Misamis Oriental will bring in 4 more turbines on top of the 3 that Steag has right now. This means that they have to draw big volume of water from our rivers for the plants’ cooling system and dumping the same to, where else? Macajalar Bay the one and only catch basin for all the waste water of these coal plants, truly a tragic inconsistency to CDO’s and Misamis Oriental’s campaign of becoming

an Eco-Tourism destination.

That is why to me, STEAG would have been enough necessary evil because to take it away at this time will result to a big drawback to the region’s energy needs. Steag is a pill that we have to take in order to augment our energy requirement, but to take more than the “doctor’s advice” will only expose us to a greater risk. Let us therefore advocate for mixed energy, one that will also harness the potentials of other renewable energy sources such as hydro-electric, solar and natural gases.

It is unfortunate that our government bungled so many times on its energy program. Its incompetence and lack of genuine commitment caused the dilapidation of Pulangi-Agus Hydrolectric Plant, now currently performing at 50% only from of its original capacity of 983 MW. Once fully rehabilitated (rehabilitation cost P 1B versus Napoles & lawmakers loot of P 10B and compared to FDC Coal Plant cost of P 31B), this will bring up our energy supply by 500 MW and meet the Mindanao Development Authority’s forecasted requirement of 500 MW by 2016. And with the completion of the Davao Coal Plant (Aboitiz) at 300 MW, Sarangani Coal Plant at 110 MW and Zambo. Coal Plant (both by Alsons), all expected to be operational by 2015, Mindanao will have a surplus until the early 2020’s. Therefore, these greedy corporations and their lackeys in government are fooling us because of greed for power and money.

Clearly, we don’t need another Coal Fired Power Plant in Misamis Oriental any more.

Perhaps, the more crucial question that needs to be addressed is: How much Carbon Dioxide can these coal plants hold back?

Nowhere in all of FDC’s public pronouncements has it squarely answered this apprehension. How much CO2 is emitted for every MW of electricity generated? How much carbon is emitted per hour? Per day? Per year?

How much carbon can a thousand hectares of trees sequester? A kilo? A ton?

There we will understand that all these figures about carbon sequestrations capabilities of Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de oro City are all baloney.

Clearly, our government is contradicting itself, and we are faced with the grim reality that we have to fight our own government to protect ourselves. The constitutionally guaranteed right of every citizen to a balanced and healthful ecology carries with it the correlative duty to refrain from impairing the environment. Let us fight for this right though the heavens fall. This is not only our sacred duty but also our moral obligation to our children and the future generations to come.”

Rhapsody... from page 7

put up the Crystal Sugar Milling Corporation nearby.

Bukidnon is a picture of agricultural growth in Northern Mindanao. Land areas planted to sugar canes and bananas has tripled over the years of good local governance. It took guts and initiatives from a former Busco Sugar executive who became a three termed congressman then a Governor of the Province to organize the sugar planters and convert the pasture lands into a mechanized farming food bowl. Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri was the spark plug of the sugar industry in the province. Without his skillful management initiatives, the industry could not have grown to a multi billion domestic and export supplier.

Maramag sugar is now a byword in the market.

Transforming Bukidnon into a first class province in the Philippines was one of the visions of the flamboyant Governor. The province, which has two cities in Valencia and Malaybalay may soon opt for a legislation of a third city of Maramag with its nearly 200,000 populations and .03percent contribution to the GNP. Commuters and motorist traveling on the province’s national highway may not have seen the real picture of Maramag. Inside the town proper is the integrated transport terminal and a public market with park and promenade with the modernity comparable to a five-star hotel setting. Residential communities come in tandem with the colors of a modern municipal hall building reflecting a fusion of Spanish and American architecture. Ninety percent of the new government buildings in the province have the same theme and designs that should merit credit and recognition by the National Historical Commission. It is a showcase of development where government funds were skillfully spent and not wasted. Hospitals, Municipal Halls and Barangay Roads are up to standards. Town planning and urban development is a classic example of how a province should be governed.

Gov. Joe Zubiri as friends calls him is my off and on the client of a luxury hotel I once managed. He is a man of his own. He exhorts the leadership and charisma that can influence the national leadership to support his vision. The private sector believes in his initiatives.

Maramag is now a harmony of greens amidst a rhapsody of economic gains.

If there could be a song to be composed to honor the progress of this place, it will be in the tune of “Zu-bi-ri.”

This brings my thought to memory lanes when the Governor was in his college days playing for a varsity team in the NCCA Basketball League in Manila. Girls shriek and shout his name every time he makes the rare basket.

12 Mindanao Daily NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao-wide Community Newspaper

Sports

tuesday | december 10, 2013 Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Raptors send Gay to Sacramento for package of four players

T

he Toronto Raptors have traded away forward Rudy Gay, less than a year after acquiring the former lottery pick, sending him to the Sacramento Kings for four players, Adrian Wojnarowski and Marc Spears of Yahoo Sports reported, Sunday (Monday, PHL time).

In the trade, which has not yet been approved by the league office, Gay, along with forward Quincy Acy and center Aaron Gray, will head West to Sacramento. Toronto will take back swingman John Salmons, point guard Greivis Vasquez, and forwards Patrick Patterson and Chuck Hayes.

Gay, drafted eighth overall in 2006, is averaging 19.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists, though he’s shooting a career-low 38.8 percent from the field. Acy and Gray are fringe rotation players, who have seen action in just seven and four

games this season, respectively.

Vasquez is norming 9.8 points, 1.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists, Salmons is putting up 5.8 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists, and Patterson is averaging 6.9 points and 5.8 rebounds.

Hayes as 2.1 points and 2.9 rebounds to his name.

The 6’8” Gay has a player option next season for $19.3 million, while Gray is an expiring contract, and Acy has a team option for $900,000.

On the other hand, only Hayes may stick around next season, when he’s owed $5.9 million. Salmons has a team option worth $7 million, which the Raptors will likely decline. Patterson and Vasquez have qualifying offers.

The Raptors actually set to play the LA Lakers later on Sunday (Monday, PHL time). The players to be traded have been held out of that game. AMD, GMA News

SEA Games' opening/closing ceremonies to feature Myanmar, ASEAN cultures

Without throwing a punch, PH boxers already assured of five SEAG bronze medals

YANGON, Dec. 9 (PNA/ Xinhua) --The 27th SEA Games opening and closing ceremonies w i l l fe atu re My an m ar traditional culture and ASEAN countries' c ulture on a grand s cale, official media New Light o f My a n m a r re p or t e d Monday.

The Philippine boxing team is already assured of at least five bronze medals in the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar, either due to the luck of the draw or lack of entries.

Flyweight Rey Saludar, bantamweight Mario Fernandez, and welterweight Wilfredo Lopez drew byes in the men's division, as did bantamweight Iris Magno and flyweight Maricris Igam in the distaff side.

Light flyweight Josie Gabuco and featherweight Nesthy Petecio automatically made it to the semifinals due to lack of entries in

The showcase includes three s ec tors -fine arts by the Ministry of Culture, Myanmar Director's Zin Yaw Maung Maung's script and photo display and technical assistance by China Ar t and Enter tainment Group (CAEG).

A total of 8,000 stu-

d e nt s t h r o u g h o u t t h e country are ready to perform in the ceremonies.

M e a n w h i l e , My a n m ar ' s f ant a s t i c s p or t s infrastructures are ready for the opening and closing ceremonies s cheduled on Dec. 11 and Dec. 22 resp ec tively. (PNA/ X inhua)

their respective divisions.

“We are so lucky to have all of these boxers in the semis,” Alliance of Boxing Associations of the Philippines executive director Ed Picson said. “We need to hurdle all obstacles that come our way to make sure that everybody will be in the finals.”

Meanwhile, Dennis Galvan starts his defense of his gold from two years ago against Cambodia’s Ratha Svay in the men’s 64kg division for the right to fight in the semifinal round. - Reuben Terrado, SPIN