Mindanao Daily Westmin (December 18, 2013)

Mindanao Daily NEWS

Volume II, No. 156

web portal: www.businessweekmindanao.com

Wednesday

December 18, 2013

P15.00

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

Army troops, clash with NPA rebels in Zamboanga

D

IPOLOG City–– Government troops clashed with communist rebels in Zamboanga del Norte, police said Monday. Police said troops from the 6th Special Forces were patrolling the village of Bato in Sindangan town when they ran into a small group of New People’s Army rebels and a firefight ensued.

There were no reports of casualties from both sides.

See FULL STORY, page 9

CEASEFIRE?

AFP still waiting for orders WITH Christmas just eight days away, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Domingo Tutaan, Jr. on Tuesday announced that the military is still waiting orders on the declaration of suspension of military offensive (SOMO) against separatist rebels.

He added they were still waiting words from Malacanang regarding the SOMO. “We are waiting for the decision on the matter but once it arrives, we will definitely comply with it,” Tutaan stressed.

The AFP spokesperson said there were no standard dates regarding the declaration of SOMO although for the past three years, December 16 seemed to be the declaration date.

Traditionally, SOMO See ORDERS, page 11

TROUBLED PASSENGERS. Passengers disembark from Trans-Asia 5 at the Macabalan port in Cagayan de Oro City after the ship suf-

fered engine trouble and returned. More than 667 passengers were bound for Cebu City on Sunday evening.

Mindanao Daily News photo by Gerry Lee Gorit

B’non allots P101m for ‘extra’ cash gifts

By Walter I. Balane of MindaNews

Ribbon Cutting. Councilor Zaldy Ocon and Tablon Barangay Chairman Romeo Bacarro did the honor in ribbon cutting in this turn over ceremony of a P4.4 million road concreting farm-to-market road project of Rep. Rufus Rodriguez in Barangay Tablon in Cagayan de Oro. Also in photo are City Councilors Enrico Salcedo, Bong Lao, Candy Darimbang, Roger Abaday and Zaldy Ocon. DPWH District Engr. Anastacio Marundan, Engr. Pidoy Bergado of Department of Agriculture and Kagawads Angelo Pomar, Billy Kid Auza and Felix Wayan.

MALAYBALAY City––The Bukidnon provincial board approved two supplemental budgets today, including allotment of a total of P101.3 million for extra cash gifts or “performance enhancement incentives (PEI).”

But there is still no official document yet showing how much of the PEI allotment will be released to the provincial government’s 1,423 regular employees, including 27 department

heads, and 840 casual employees.

The board allocated P45 million of the P68.6 million Supplemental Budget No. 5 of the Economic Enterprise for the PEI. It also allocated P56.3 million of the P125.8 million Supplemental Budget No. 6 of the General Fund for PEI. About P62.7 million of SB No. 05 is sourced from “subside from general fund”

with radio stations who have willingly partnered with us so they can release flash bulletins to their listeners,” he said.

Social media channels could also be tapped, in

hopes of reaching those whose social network accounts such as Facebook are linked to their SMS inbox, he added.

Avila said that they

See traffic, page 11

Real-time traffic update planned in Davao City DAVAO City––With traffic getting busier in Mindanao’s biggest city, the committee on transportation and communication of the city council here is pushing for the creation of a real-time

traffic update system.

Councilor Leonardo R. Avila III said that the system would tap media agencies such as radio stations as well as social media managers so that information

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

on accidents and alternate routes could be passed on to motorists immediately.

Avila said that he hopes for the plan to push through next year.

“We will communicate

See traffic, page 11

Valencia City Mayor Jose M. Galario will lead the opening rites of the new-constructed P218-million worth Valencia City Public Market today (December 18, 2013) in Valencia City.

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

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EDITOR: RUEL PELONE, ruel_pelone2002@yahoo.com

NorthMin News

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY l MISAMIS ORIENTAL l BUKIDNON

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Decades-old Trans-Asia 5 ship conks midway of sea

By GERRY LEE GORIT Correspondent

CAGAYAN de Oro City– –A tugboat towed back to Macabalan port in Cagayan de Oro City the M/V TransAsia 5 passenger ship that conked out midway in the sea to Cebu City on Monday dawn.

The ship, ferrying 667 passengers and perishable cargo, left Macabalan on Sunday evening but later drifted in the sea when it suffered engine trouble and could not continue on its journey.

Philippine Coast Guard station commander Eliezer

Dalnay said a PCG vessel escorted the tugboat and passenger ship from the seas off Siquijor Island.

Dalnay said the vessels reached Macabalan port Tuesday noon.

He added that the PCG fielded medical personnel at the port although no reports of passengers needing medical assistance were received while the ship was still at sea.

Trans-Asia 5, built in 1989, also suffered engine trouble in October last year during a voyage from Cebu to Cagayan de Oro. It had to return to the port of Cebu.

The manager of Trans-

Asia Shipping Lines has declined to be interviewed pending completion of an investigation into the incident.

The shipping lines operates two other passenger ships, Trans-Asia 8 which plies the Bohol-Cagayan de Oro route and the TransAsia 9 which also plies the Cagayan de Oro-Cebu route.

Aside from passengers, Trans-Asia 5 was loaded with agricultural products including dressed chicken, mangoes, bananas, tomatoes and other vegetables.

It was scheduled to reach Cebu City on Monday dawn.

Use reflectorized paint on road markers, contractors told

THE City Council committee on public utilities chaired

by Councilor Roger Abaday during its recent meeting requested DPWH Region to use reflectorized paints

for the pavement markers at the center islands of the national highway, from Kauswagan to Bulua and to advice DL Enterprise, the contractor of the same

project at Lapasan highway.

It may be recalled that Councilor Abaday rendered his special report during the regular session recently and he said the construction is being implemented by a See PAINT, p.11

Medics of the Rescue 411 attend to a child from the ill-fated M/V Trans-Asia 5 that suffered engine trouble on the way from Cagayan de Oro to Cebu City. The passenger ship was towed back to Cagayan de Oro after drifting in sea for hours off Siquijor Island. Mindanao Daily News photo by Gerry Lee Gorit

Dads okay supplement budget for payment of 14th month pay THE City Council during its regular session yesterday presided over by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas unanimously enacted Ordinance No. 12702-2013 approving the Supplemental Budget No. 4 of the General Fund and Supplemental Budget No. 3 of Special Account both for Calendar Year 2013 with an estimated incomes of P56,047,857 and P7,540,167, respectively, against estimated expenditures of the same amount

No.: 09161714813 (GLOBE)

to implement approved appropriation ordinances.

The approved ordinances include Ordinance No. 12697-2013 granting Productivity Enhancement Incentives to all government officials and employees equivalent to one month salary based on the guidelines issued by the department of budget and management, and for this purpose, reverting and/or appropriating the sum of P38,808,880.00 See BUDGET, p.11

wednesday | december 18, 2013

Mindanao Daily 3 NEWS northmin . westmin . caraga . davao Your Mindanao -wide Communit y N ewspaper

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

Caraga News

wednesday | december 18, 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

DOH-Caraga for safe, healthy holiday season

By PAT SAMONTE Regional Editor-Caraga

B U T UA N C i t y – – T h e Department of Health in Caraga has urged the people to celebrate the Christmas holidays safely, healthy, and to share their blessings, to fully enjoy the season.

This was the message of DOH Center for Health Development-Caraga Regional Director Minerva Molon in last Friday’s press conference as she suggested that the holiday season is the best period “to spend quality time with the family, eat well-balanced fiberrich diet like fruits and vegetables, and to share happiness with those in extreme and urgent need like the victims of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” in Samar and Leyte.”

For years, the Department of Health has been campaigning for the reduction and prevention of fireworks-related injuries.

SAFE, INJURY-FREE HOLIDAY SEASON FOR 2013. In a press con-

ference, Deparment of Health in Caraga has called for a healthy, safe and injury-free 2013 Christmas celebration and urged the public to donate goods to the victims of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” that left 6,059 people dead and displaced millions more in the Visayas instead of buying firecrackers that may cause injuries and fire. From left are Cristina Dedel of DTI-Agusan del Norte provincial office, DOH-Caraga Director III Cesar Cassion, Police Supt. Excelso Lazaga, Jr. of PRO-13 FESAGS, and PO3 Zena Panaligan. Photo by Pat Samonte of Mindanao Daily News

It has urged the public to find other means of creating noise without firecrackers during Christmas holidays and New Year’s eve.

As of January 13, 2013, 29 cases of injuries in Caraga Region were reported from December 21, 2012 to January 2, 2013. Twenty-

seven of these cases were fireworks-related while two were stray bullets cases.

Of these cases, 17 were active or the victims were the ones who lighted the firecrackers and 10 were passive cases (either the victims were onlookers or bystanders). Most of the

injuries were burn/ blasting and lacerations. Most of the cases were treated in hospitals and rural health units. A stray bullet victim was referred to a higher facility for further treatment.

The victims’ ages ranged from 2 to 63 years old. Most of the victims were male.

The types of firecracker used were Piccolo(22), Bawang (1), Flying Tiger Dragon (1), Triangle (1), Plapla (1), and unidentified (1).

The victims were from Agusan del Sur (10), Surigao City (8), Surigao del Norte (4), Butuan City (4), Surigao del Sur (1), Tandag City (1), and Bislig City (1).

Meanwhile, Department of Trade and IndustryAgusan del Norte OIC Provincial Director Gay A. Tidalgo has warned the public to buy only fireworks bearing Product Standard (PS) Marks to protect consumers from the hazards to life and safety of substandard products.

In an advisory, Tidalgo said the mandatory implementation of PNS 1220-2:1994 – Fireworks Specification covers locally produced fireworks. Since Republic Act 7183 prohibits importation of finished firecrackers and fireworks,

Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) are not issued to said imported products, she said.

“Only those fireworks with PS Marks are allowed to be sold in the country,” she said.

According to Tidalgo, retailers selling fireworks without PS Marks will be penalized to include a fine ranging from P25,000 to P300,000.

This year, the DOH’s thrust with the theme: “Maging Ligtas sa Kapaskuhan, mga Biktima ng Kalamidad Handugan” , focuses on the true meaning of Christmas by sharing and caring for the victims of the super typhoon that left almost 6,100 fatalities and destroyed the homes of millions of people including their livelihood.

The DOH encourages the public to share the season’s cheer and happiness to the typhoon victims instead of buying firecrackers.

4 Red Cross personnel join relief, recovery operations in typhoon Yolanda-ravaged areas

By David M. Suyao PIA, Agusan del Sur

FOUR personnel from the Philippine Red Cross Agusan del Sur Chapter (PRC-AdS) were ordered by the Red Cross National Headquarters to extend technical assistance, relief distribution and early recovery activities in three municipalities in Leyte after super typhoon “Yolanda” hit the area leaving thousands of deaths and millions worth of damages.

The four, namely Reynaline Esguerra, Rosalie Morano, Anthony Mato and Abundio Quino will join the other four delegates from Southern Leyte and Valenzuela City Chapter, in the Assessment, Relief and Volunteer Recruitment Team covering the municipalities of Albuera, Isabel and Merida, all in the province of Leyte.

Abundio Quino, the PRC-AdS driver brought along with him his assigned service vehicle here

Tel.No. (088) 880-1474

in Agusan del Sur in order to augment the vehicular requirement in the typhoon ravaged areas.

According to the order received by the PRC-AdS team, their tasks are to ensure all pertinent data were gathered and properly validated in each given time.

They have to ensure also that selection of beneficiaries is in accordance to the PRC criteria and policy. The team must submit relief distribution plan and See AREAS, p.11

wednesday | december 18, 2013 Editor: JOE DEL PUERTO FELICILDA Asst editor: ARJAY S. FELICILDA Email: mindanaodailycaraga@gmail.com

Mindanao Daily 5 NEWS

News in Focus

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Cebu Pacific promotes travel to Davao for the Big Davao Fun Sale THE Philippines’ leading low-cost carrier, Cebu Pacific Air (PSE: CEB) partners with tourism and retail stakeholders in Davao as the official airline partner of the Big Davao Fun Sale, a Davao city-wide shopping sale to be held from March 14 to April 16, 2014.

Travelers going to Davao during the month-long

event will enjoy up to 80% shopping discounts, freebies and prizes in all major malls in Davao City: Robinsons Cybergate Davao, AbreezaAyala Mall, Gaisano Grand Mall, Gaisano Mall of Davao, NCCC Mall, SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier.

The Big Davao Fun Sale is spearheaded by the malls of Davao City, in coopera-

tion with the Department of Tourism XI, the Davao City Government and the Philippine Retailers Association.

Those making plans to visit Davao during the Big Davao Fun Sale can book CEB’s special Davao hub seat sale fromDecember 16 to 18, 2013 or until seats last. This is for travel from

January 1 to April 30, 2014.

P399 seats from Cebu, Cagayan de Oro or Zamboanga to Davao are up for grabs, as well as P699 seats from Manila, Bacolod, Dipolog, Iloilo or Puerto Princesa to Davao.

CEB will launch its direct Bacolod- Davao flights on January 25, 2014.

“We join the DOT Re-

gion 11 and the City of Davao in inviting those looking for the best shopping deals, culinary finds, and the most exciting ecoadventure attractions, to visit Davao during the Big Davao Fun Sale,” said CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

From March 14 to 16, 2014, the Big Davao Fun

Sale will kick off with mallwide sales.

For the rest of the month-long sale, there will be shopping deals per week, with March 16-23, 2014 being dedicated to health and beauty outlets, March 24-30, 2014 for electronics and gadgets shops, March 31-April 6, 2014 for See SALE, page 11

Year 2: Sendong

Performance artists led by Nick Aca dramatize the Typhoon Sendong experience in Cagayan de Oro City Monday evening. The 2nd year anniversary of the killer typhoon was marked in the city with a program held at the Sendong Memorial which pays tribute to the victims of the disaster.

Mindanao Daily News photo by Gerry Lee Gorit

Republic of the Philippines Province of Bukidnon Valencia City

OFFICE OF THE CITY MAYOR PASKOHANONG MENSAHE

AKONG PANGHINAUT SA USA KA MALIPAYON UG MALINAWO’NG KASAULOGAN SA PASKO UG BAG-ONG TUIG ILABI NA GAYUD SA TANANG LUMULUPYO NING ATONG DAKBAYAN SA VALENCIA!

MALIPAYON AKO NGA NAGAAWHAG SA TANANG KATAWHAN DILI LAMANG DINHI NING ATONG DAKBAYAN APAN LAKIP ANG MGA LUMOLUPYO SA KASIGBIT NGA DAPIT SA PAGSUROY UG PAGSAKSI SA USA KA PINASAHI NGA SELEBRASYON SA PASKO UG CHARTER DAY ANNIVERSARY NING ATONG DAKBAYAN SA VALENCIA, ANG PANLIBATUHAN FESTIVAL. SUGOD 18 DISYEMBRE 2013 HANGTUD 12 ERNERO 12 2014, INYONG MASAKSIHAN ANG USA KA TALAGSAON NGA PARADA SA NAGKADAIYANG ISTRAKTURA NGA GASIMBOLO SA KAPASKUHAN DINHA SA CITY OVAL. DUGANG SA KASADYA ANG MATAG GABIIING PROGRAMA NGA MAGAPAKITA SA TALAGSAONG TALENTO SA MGA MULOPYO, MGA ESTUDYANTE UG UBAN PANG SEKTOR SA DAKBAYAN. BUSA, SA MAKAUSA PA, AKO KAMONG KINASINGKASING NGA GINAIMBITAR SA PAGBISITA UG PAGSALMOT NIINING USA KA BULAN NGA SELEBRASYON SA PANLIBATUHAN FESTIVAL! DAGHANG SALAMAT!

Hon. JOSE M. GALARIO JR. City Mayor

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

Opinion

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Feature

Ban-ao rises again, bids farewell to BMG

By BONG D. FABE

BAN-AO, Baganga, Davao Oriental—“Your help was so great. You helped us stand again. You taught us how to be resilient and to be a resource.

We in Ban-ao will never forget you. I know it is not easy for you to travel so far away, but you did and that showed your help comes from the heart. For me personally, I will never forget your help until the end of my life because during those times when I felt so alone, you were my inspiration. That is why I can say that ‘you made me live again’.”

Her last words prompted an impromptu humming of those who know Janet Basco’s immortal love song, as Barangay Chairperson Mera A. Ching paused for a bit to wipe the tears smearing her face during the simple handover ceremony here on the first anniversary of typhoon Pablo (Bopha) on December 4.

An emotional Ching gallantly stemmed the flood of tears from taking over the gathering, reminiscent of the time a year ago when she — abandoned by most of her leaders but propped up by BMG volunteers — led the reconstruction and rehabilitation of her devastated village.

The celebration, aptly titled “Atong Kaugmaon: A Handover of Community Projects and Celebration of the Resiliency of Barangay Ban-ao, Davao Oriental” was BMG’s way of saying its final farewell to the villagers whom it accompanied for a year of journey towards normalcy after Pablo.

“Your journeying with us for one year will never be forgotten.

You inspired and encouraged me to go on. But like a parent, you know that we can now stand on our own,” Ching said.

Moving on: Ban-ao Elementary School Principal Venus Buhat said that the barangay has recovered from the tragedy “due to the help of Balay Mindanaw.” “If Balay Mindanaw did not help Ban-ao, it will be very hard for the villagers to stand again,” she said.

Ban-ao, one of Baganga’s 18 villages, is the hardest-hit barangay in the whole municipality with 17 dead and more than 90 percent of its 520 families homeless with literally no

source of income in sight as Pablo also leveled 99 percent of all coconuts.

The village’s vast mangrove area, which the DENR was eyeing as an eco-tourism park, was also decimated. But thanks to the resiliency of the mangroves, new growths are seen sprouting to one day realize the DENR and Ban-aowon’s dream. The devastation was so complete that villagers thought they were the only survivors left.

This reality prompted 9-yearold Em-Em to mischievously called survivors “leftovers of the typhoon” — a label that aptly described Ban-aowons.

Realizing the enormity of the devastation and the lack of help, BMG adopted this barangay after a quick assessment led by BMG chief Charlito “Kaloy” Manlupig and Ariel “Ayi” Hernandez, executive director of the Katilingbanong Pamahandi sa Mindanaw Foundation, Inc. (KPMFI), the enterprise development arm of the BMG through the promptings of Lt. Col. Krishnamurti Mortela, battalion commander of the 67th “Agila” Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Baganga.

When BMG’s first official aid and volunteers arrived here on Dec. 8, 2012, “Four Strong Winds” blared on the car stereo as volunteers and village folks cleared the debris scattered all over the place. Now, a year later, the lyrics of Neil Young’s famous anthem played as a tribute to the village folks who have since found their bearings and are “moving on.”

“We lost everything. Our houses, our livelihood and our friends; some even lost their relatives. Nothing is left here,” Ching once said. They may have lost everything, but not their resiliency — their innate strength, talents and abilities to rise to the challenge of Pablo, which they handily won.

Barangay-based DR: Prior to BMG’s arrival, the residents organized themselves and salvaged still useful housing materials to repair what they can of their destroyed houses to shelter them from the constant rains and winds and the searing heat of the sun.

“I often wondered what the overall feeling in this village before Pablo was. But now, the feeling of unity and oneness is

so palpable in everyone that I can’t just feel or sense it but also see it in the people, in the way they help each other cope with the disaster,” said Ed Cox, expert disaster response and humanitarian volunteer of the Disaster Aid International (DAI).

“Yes, you can see sadness in their eyes. But you can also see there the fire of hope burning.

And it is our job, our work, our responsibility to make sure that this fire of hope in them is not extinguished. It is our job to convert this hope into positive action for them to be able to help themselves. That’s the meaning of assistance,” he added.

Thanks in part to BMG — its partner institutions like the DAI, Johanniter International Assistance, German Cooperation Deutsche Zusammenarbeit, and most especially to the thousands of volunteers who were mobilized by the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro and the VOICE Network, including the St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, Philippine Nurses Association, Xavier University and the Sendong survivors of Barangay Indahag — this hope propelled Ban-aowons to rebuild a devastated community and lives, even if it means literally picking the pieces and putting them back together. It was also this hope that led Ban-aowons, led by Ching and helped by BMG, to buy a four-hectare lot in the village as their new barangay site (barangay hall, etc.) and relocation site of 100 families.

Model DR: As the world focused and pour resources on Compostela Valley, another Pablo-devastated province, BMG poured out its heart on this small village where the super typhoon made landfall. While the world’s disaster and humanitarian organizations poured relief goods on the survivors of other towns and villages, BMG journeyed with the Ban-aowons using its time- and experience-proven approach in all its work.

“Instead of treating the survivors as mere recipients of aid, they are considered as they key stakeholders in the difficult task of community re-building. Our intervention [covered] the whole range of community needs: from organizing to provision of basic

needs of food, water, medicines, etc.” Manlupig said. This is the same approach now being employed by BMG in its disaster response and humanitarian work in the earthquake-ruined Bohol and Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda)-devastated Ormoc and Panay.

“The main idea is to focus our resources on one barangay at a time instead of spreading them all to the 42 barangays of the three hardest-hit municipalities at the same time.

After all, barangay-based and barangay-focused development, disaster response and peacebuilding work is one of our key strengths,” Manlupig added.

Sylvia “Ibing” OkinlayParaguya, vice chairperson of the Balay Mindanaw Foundation, Inc. (BMFI), said that “barangay-based rehabilitation [has] once again [been] proven to be a viable approach.” Paraguya, executive director of the Coop-NATCCO, explained that BMG’s approach is very effective because “data comes from the community; needs are identified by them. And community-based assessment has helped them process their own fears of what they went through.”

This “local stakeholder” approach ensured that everyone in the devastated village get a fair share of the resources as well as gave them ownership of their own sustainable future. It was this approach that made Ban-ao a model of an effective disaster response work. This was the raison detre of BMG’s Disaster Risk Reduction, Resiliency and Emergency Assistance Mission (DREAM) program, which “facilitated” the “convergence of efforts” of all key players resulting to the rising of the “new Ban-ao.”

“Despite the unfavourable fate we had in the past year [2012], there is always a reason to celebrate a new life, a new beginning,” said barangay chairperson Ching.

And for BMG, its journey with the people of Ban-ao is a great learning experience.

“BMG learned a lot from its journey with the people of Banao, and this has greatly helped us as we began our journey with the people of Bohol, Leyte and Panay,” Manlupig said.

wednesday | december 18, 2013

Opinion

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Root of nation’s problems are not people, but bad leaders: foreign activist Being an agricultural country, the Philippines needs to tap its vast agricultural resource, which the government failed to fully support that resulted to lack of food and poverty among the people.

Foreign activist Michael Billington of Executive Intelligence Review branded the Philippine’s population control policy now pending before the Supreme Court as a ‘false idea’ and boldly added that “the cause of problems is bad leaders.”

Referring to the controversial RH law which will turn a year-old on Dec. 21, Billington said, “This cannot solve any problem and can only contribute to the idea, a false idea that the cause of problems is people. The cause of

problems is not people; the cause of problems is bad leaders.”

Billington was known for his debate with James Putzel an expert of the London School of Economics Asia over the insurgency in Southern Philippines.

Being an agricultural country, the Philippines needs to tap its vast agricultural resource, which the government failed to fully support that resulted to lack of food and poverty among the people, Billington added.

Bus tragedy: reminder to pray for family LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure…”

(Ecclesiastes 7:4, the Holy Bible).

-oooFILIPINOS NO LONGER KNOW HOW TO COUNT? Will someone please tell us how many really died from the Don Mariano bus Skyway accident on Monday, December 16, 2013? Were there only 18 who died as local media said, or 21, as the BBC TV of London reported? How come there is a difference in the number of victims even among news agencies when, to know the exact number of fatalities, all that has to be done is count the dead bodies?

Or, have we lost even the ability to count? Or, perhaps, this difference in the number of the victims is happening because someone is again interested to report a lesser number of casualties, just like what happened to Yolanda victims in Eastern Visayas?

Indeed, what is happening to the Philippines, or maybe more appropriately, why is this happening to our country?

-oooRELIEF AND COMFORT FROM THE BIBLE: Did you see the great sorrow

Kakampi mo ang batas Atty. Batas Mauricio etched in the faces of the relatives and family members of those who died in that tragic accident? The grief was unspeakable, and the anger was understandably fiery and intense. For who is the father, mother, brother or sister, or son and daughter, who will not be pained by the sudden, senseless, and violent loss of relatives?

But in the face of these sufferings, those who grieve and are hurting must endeavor to read the Bible and derive instant relief and comfort from its verses.

Surely, even when things are disorderly, chaotic, inexplicable, and thoroughly devastating, there is an explanation as to why God allowed them to happen. In His great intelligence, He has a reason for everything which is unmistakably good even if we humans think otherwise.

For one, the Bible says there is no reason to fear death on the part of real believers. This is the message of 1 Thessalonians

4:13-18, thus: “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.

-oooTHOSE WHO DIED IN JESUS WILL LIVE AGAIN: “For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.

Think A Minute

BECAUSE the power industry is monopolized by only a few players, collusion is expected.

Only five companies control 80% of power capacity in the country: Cojuangco/ SMC (22%), Aboitiz (20%), Lopez (18%), Ty (12%) and Consunji (8%). These same firms own the plants with allegedly coordinated forced outages including Ilijan (Cojuangco/SMC), San Lorenzo (Lopez) and Calaca (Consunji); the other two plants are GN Power (Ayala) and Masinloc (AES).

The record rate hike results from the Electric Power Industry Reform Act

‘How to be a good fighter!’

THINK a minute.

A few years ago Mike Tyson fought Evander Holyfied for the world heavyweight championship title.

During the fight, Tyson got so angry he actually bit off a part of Holyfield’s ear!

Most of us know that it takes a much stronger man to control his own anger than to let it control him.

Many homes are not happy because the husband and wife haven’t learned to control their anger and fight by the rules.

Of course, I don’t mean fist fighting, but rather arguing with words.

There are 5 simple guide-

By Jhan Tiafau Hurst

lines for fighting that would make a big difference in many marriages and homes.

The 1st one is smart timing. If you are still angry, then it’s usually better to wait until both of you are See GOOD, page 11

“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will

be with the Lord forever.

Therefore encourage one another with these words.”

In Ecclesiastes 7:1-2, it is said: “A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth. It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart…”

-oooPRAY FOR OUR FAMILIES: The tragedy that befell the 21 passengers of the Don Mariano bus that flew off the Muntinlupa City exit of the Skyway gave a very poignant message to all of us: we really do not know what will happen to anyone of us.

Consequently, we should endeavor to express our love for our family members all the time, for we will never know if it the last time we will ever see them. What is more, endeavor to pray for them always, in a manner that they will hear and appreciate it, while they are still alive.

-oooREACTIONS? Please call me at 0917 984 24 68, 0918 574 0193, 0922 833 43 96. Email: melaniolazomauriciojr@outlook. com, mmauriciojr111@ gmail.com, and batasmauricio@yahoo.com.

“If we are producing, if we are inspiring population to forge ahead the frontiers of science to expand those technologies to productive process and have new technology for food scientifically, then there is something to trickle down,” said Billington.

President Benigno Aquino III secretly signed the highly divisive bill into law December 21 last year, which many believed was lobbied in Congress using pork barrel funds.

(Paul de Guzman)

Biblical reflection Bro. Edcel L. Closas

Painful

Special Gospel of the day: Luke21:2933(December18, 2013-Wednesday) Luke 21:29-33-And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.

So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. This gospel is referred to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Fig tree has no leaves and fruits during winter but only during summer time. Winter in biblical essence means the death of Jesus and His crucifixion on the Cross. This was the darkest moment in History. On the other side, summer means the glorious resurrection of Jesus from the tomb. In John20:1 John 20:1-2-The first [day] of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him. The fig tree bears fruits and leaves during summer and this is paralleled to the resurrection of Jesus that bears salvation to all mankind. These two climates in the foreign countries are reflection of our lives that we experienced winter and summer of our lives.

When? There are times that we are fruitless during the painful winter times of our lives. There are also times that we are happy and productive during the summer moments of our lives. At this time, what is your experience? 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: #09284149490-09266607505: Question – Prayer request

Monopoly in power industry behind rate hike; EPIRA review and state control imperative With EPIRA, private corporate profits are given absolute priority over consumer welfare and economic development, while the state steps aside (EPIRA), which resulted in the privatization and deregulation of the power industry.

With EPIRA, private corporate profits are given absolute priority over consumer welfare and economic development, while the state steps aside.

Low and stable electricity charges are necessary to safeguard the welfare of poor consumers and support domestic industry especially

small and medium Filipino enterprises which are still developing.

If the power industry were government-controlled, the power rate hike would be avoidable.

At present, though, even granting that the rise in generation charges is unavoidable, the power industry and its players are still in a position to easily absorb the temporary increase.

The return on equity

(ROE) of the industry has been estimated at some 15% over the period 1998-2011.

The industry can well afford to take a slight decrease in profits in the interest of stable electricity prices and the public welfare.

The public interest and economic development is best served by a nationalized power utility which treats electricity as a public service.

Power is a vital and strategic utility and not a commodity for private firms to profit from. Towards a more rational power industry, government should See POWER, page 11

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

WestMin News

wednesday | december 18, 2013

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

Army troops clash with NPA rebels D IPOLOG CITY – Government troops clashed with communist rebels in the southern Philippine province of Zamboanga del Norte, police said Monday.

Police said troops from the 6th Special Forces were patrolling the village of Bato in Sindangan town when they ran into a small group

of New People’s Army rebels and a firefight ensued.

There were no reports of casualties from both sides.

Soldiers recovered a

Garand rifle and 5 clips with ammunition, bags and assorted clothes, including provision.

Several hours after the clash, the detachment of the 6th Special Forces in the village of Bucana also came under sniper fire.

There was no casualty from the attack. (Mindanao Examiner)

‘Mascota de Zamboanga’ competition set

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Lo- Tuesday night for the “Mascal designers will once again cota de Zamboanga” design showcase their creations competition at the City Hall Lobby.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Now on its 11th year, the WITH A DEED OF ABSOLUTE competition is spearheadSALE OF A PARCEL OF LAND ed by the city government Notice is hereby given that the through the City Tourism intestate estate of the deceased CONOffice.

CEPCION GABATAN LIMENA, who died on JULY 03, 2005 at Cagayan The annual design comde Oro City and ALEXANDER K. petition cum fashion show LIMENA, who died on December 7, will highlight the timeless2001. That the deceased left the folness of the mascota and at lowing Real Property situated in Sitio Badiangon, Poblacion, Municipality of the same time showcase the Opol, Province of Misamis Oriental, creativity and artistry of which is more particularly described Zamboangueňo designers. as follows: TECHNICAL DESCRIPMascota is the formal TION TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-47584-B LOT NO. 39827, gown worn by ZamboangueCad 237 Lot 37259-E, Csd-104321ñas during the Spanish pe007889-D “A PARCEL OF LAND, Lot riod.

No. 39827, Cad 237 (Lot 37259-E, Csd-104321-007889), situated in Sitio Originally featured as Badiangon, Poblacion, Municipality of part of the Zamboanga HerOpol, Province of Misamis Oriental, mosa festival, this year’s containing an area of TWO THOUSAND Mascota is one of lined-up EIGHT HUNDRED TWENTY SEVEN (2,827) SQUARE METERS, more or activities for the 2013 Pascua less, is the subject of EXTRAJUDIna Zamboanga festival, with CIAL SETTLEMENT WITH A DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE OF A PARCEL OF LAND, made and entered by and between their surviving children namely; MARION LEE GABATAN LIMENA and IVAN ALEXANDER GABATAN LIMENA, both of legal age, Filipino citizen, married, with residence and postal address at Dabatian St., Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City and ESTHER CONCEPCION GABATAN LIMENA, of legal age, Filipino citizen, single, Dabatian St., Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, hereinafter referred to as the HEIRS-VENDORS; and MARITES B. MANTUA, of legal age, Filipino citizen, single, with residence and postal address at Buntong, Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City, hereinafter referred to as the VENDEE. That for and in consideration of the sum of SIXTY THOUSAND PESOS ONLY (PHP 60,000.00) Philippine Currency is hereby acknowledge by the VENDOR after the amount is paid in hand by the VENDEE/S the VENDOR/S hereby SELL, TRANSFER and CONVEY. As per Doc. No. 420; Page No. 84; Book No. IX; Series of 2013; under Notary Public of ATTY. EMELITO J. MARQUIÑO. MDN: DEC. 4, 11 & 18, 2013

See clash, page 11

ZAMB OANGA CIT Y – About 865 families of internally displaced persons (IDPs), received Monday their rice payout for planting last week mangrove propagules in barangays Mampang and Arena Blanco, this city.

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar and City Agriculturist Diosdado Palacat together with World Food Programme (WFP) representatives led the distribution of rice to the beneficiaries at the Sangguniang Panlungsod parking grounds.

Salazar emphasized that the 'work for food' program is a very important aspect of the recovery and reconstruction efforts as it gives IDPs the opportunity to work for food rather than staying at the evacuation centers and be dependent of the food packs from the government.

S a l a z ar l a s t w e e k joined the 3,500 evacueefamilies in the mangrove planting in Barangays Mampang and Arena Blanco as part of the work for food program for the IDPs. Now on it second batch of implementation, the work for food program is designed to give the evacuees of the 20-day siege last September a week-long work in exchange for one sack of rice per family.

It started a month ago when a total of 6,500 IDP-families were hired to work on the coastal cleanup in Barangays Rio Hondo and Mariki.

After a week’s work, they were given one sack of rice each as payout.

The IDPs working on mangrove propagules planting were mostly evacuees housed at the Joaquin Enriquez Me-

morial Sports Complex.

The program is being carried out by the United Nations World Food Programme and the city government through the City Agriculturist Office.

It will be launched again next month, and this time the IDPs will be hired for river bank clean-up and other environment cleaning operations.

The work for food program is part of the city government’s grand plan for early recovery and rehabilitation of Zamboanga City under the “build back better” strateg y in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), UP PLANADES and other agencies. (PNA)

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that the intestate estate of the late MOISES P. ILOGON, SR., consisting of a parcel of land (Lot 5224-F, Psd-10-004664, being a portion of lot 5224, PLS-97, Agusan River Valley Public Land Subdivision), situated in the Barrio of Amparo, City of Butuan, covered

by Certificate of Title No. T-4187, containing an area of 14,393square meters, more or less, is the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF SALE entered into and executed by deceased Moises P. Ilogon, Sr.’s sole heirs, namely, widow Estrella L. Ilogon, Gilbert L. Ilogon, Madonna I. Plaza, Moises L. Ilogon, Minerva I. Montalban and Kristoffer L. Ilogon, selling, ceding, transferring and conveying above-described property unto vendee Juliet Baliola-Ilogan for and in consideration of P20,000.00, per Doc. No. 1636; Page No. 328; Book No. 6; Series of 2013 of the Notarial Registry of Atty. Jose B. Guibone, Notary Public at Butuan City with PTR No. 0557054 -1-04-13 until December 31, 2013.

MDN: Dec. 4, 11 & 18, 2013

R.A. Form No. 10172 (LCRO) Republic of the Philippines Region X Province of Lanao del Norte MUNICIPALITY OF BAROY OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 7 of R.A. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that RUTCHEL PUNESTO CAÑETE has filed with this Office a Petition for Correction of entry in sex from “FEMALE” to “MALE” in the Birth Certificate of RUTCHEL PUNESTO CAÑETE who was born on July 28, 1990 at Bag-ong Dawis, Baroy, Lanao del Norte and whose parents are FRANCISCO M. CAÑETE and NORMA B. PUNESTO.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this Office not later than 26 December 2013.

(Sgd.) CIRILO A. MICULOB

Municipal Civil Registrar MDN: Dec. 11 & 18, 2013

the theme “Build Back Better Un Familia Zamboangueňo”.

This year's participating designers include Federico Navarro, Mandrake Servito, Gerry Carpio, Gari Luna, Vicky Go Tonggal, Raustin Siocon III, Kurth David Luyao, Husni Sali, Ernie Kwan, Justin Mejia, Al Shamer Abdul, Monching Fernandez, Joy Verar and

Zambo IDPs get rice for work

Team Basilan visited Parangbasak, Lamitan last Dec 5 to provide assistance to the women and children of MNLFMisuari faction who were involved in the Zamboanga City stand-off and were arrested by and or surrendered to authorities.Thanks to the Nagdilaab Foundation Inc, the 104th Bde PA, Provl Govt of Basilan, PIA, BWIF, Child Fund Phils, PNP-Lamitan, LGU-Parangbasak, Lamitan City, among others.

(RVC/PIA9-ZBST) Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT 4th SHARI’A CIRCUIT COURT 4th Shari’a Judicial District Iligan City AIMEE P. SUAZO,

Plaintiff, CIVIL CASE NO. 2013-160

-Versus- FOR: Divorce by FASKH and Support.

LEOPOLDO J. CASTRO III Defendant.

X----------------------------------/

IN THE MATTER OF JOINT PETITION TO APPROVE AND REGISTER THE DIVORCE OF SPOUSES JOSE S. DIZON AND CATIIERINE N. NICDAO-DIZON,

CIVIL CASE NO. 2013-159

JOSE S. DIZON AND CATHERINE N. NICDAO-DIZON, Petitioners, X-------------------------------------------------------------------------/ ORDER

ORDER

Before this court is verified complaint tor Divorce by Faskh and support filed by the Plaintiff.

Finding the complaint to be sufficient in form and substance, the summons was served to the defendant according to the record, defendant filed a responsive pleading by way of a manifestation thereby raising no objection to the complaint and even joins with the plaintiff in setting for the resolution of the case favorably.

WHEREFORE, premises considered, set the hearing of the case on December 26, 2013 at 9:00 O’clock a.m. at which time, date and place, any interested party may appear and show why the petition should not be granted. Let copy of this order be published in a newspaper of General Circulation in the Northern Mindanao once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

Iligan City, Philippines, December 3, 2013.

(Sgd.) HON. OSOP M. ALI

Presiding Judge

MDN: Dec. 5, 12 & 18, 2013

Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT 4th SHARI’A CIRCUIT COURT 4th Shar’a Judicial District Iligan City

Before this court is verified Petition for the approval and Registration of the Divorce filed by the petitioners and alleging among others:

That petitioners are husband and wife respectively in a marriage performed under civil rites on April 2, 2002 at Pabanlag, Floridablanca, Pampanga, they converted to Islam faith, of which conversions to Islam were duly Registered with this court, both of them can be served with summons and other legal processes relative to this case at their residents at Doña Maria Subdivision, Tipanoy, Iligan City;

That said marriage did not last long, due to lack of love and affection until the relationship manifested incompatibility and sustained misunderstanding between petitioners and reached the point of irreconcilability and they separated for over ten (10) years already, they decided to separately live physically in bed and board thereby executed Divorce Agreement in order to formalize their separation; Since their separation, they had never been communicating or supporting either financially or emotionally to each other, neither minding each other’s affairs; Petitioner’s seek judicial decree of divorce thereby severing their marriage bond on April 2, 2002 so that they will have free hand to do what a single man or woman could do without marital burden; Reconciliation between them had already been diligently employed but all proved futile.

WHEREFORE, finding this joint petition to be sufficient Inform and substance set the initial hearing of this case on December 26, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. at which time, date and place, any interested party may appear and show why the petition should not be granted. Let copy of this Order be published in a news paper of General Circulation in the City of Iligan one week for three (3) consecutive weeks at the expense of the petitioners.

SO ORDERED.

Iligan City, Philippines, December 3, 2013.

(Sgd.) HON. OSOP M. ALI

Presiding Judge MDN: Dec. 5, 12 & 18, 2013

wednesday | december 18, 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

Davao readies plan to be prepared for storm surges

D

AVAO CITY – Worried over what happened to Tacloban, this city wants to be ready to evacuate residents in coastal barangays in case of storm surges and similar calamities.

A 9-year old boy joins hundreds of bikers in an annual biking event, Padyak para kay Boyd on Sunday, December 15, 2013. Named after Gene Boyd Lumawag, MindaNews’ photo editor who was slain in Sulu on Nov. 12, 2004, the biking event aims to raise funds to help address the medical needs of the patients at the Mindanao Burn Center in Davao City. (MindaNews photo by Toto Lozano)

More intervention needed to prepare farmers for 2015 AEI

DAVAO CITY -- Farmer groups in the city admitted the apparent lack of awareness of the sector w h e n it c om e s to t h e Asian Economic Integration, which is set for full implementation by 2015.

And unless they get more intervention programs to help them understand the effects of the AEC, then they are at the losing end. “ We h a v e t o t r a i n farmers to become sustainable first before they can compete in the global market,” City Agriculturist and Fisheries Counci l (CAFC) chair D an D. Mitchao said, adding that “teaching them to be sustainable requires the collective intervention of non-government organizations and various government agencies.”

He said on top of the agenda is the construc-

t ion of more ef f icient farm to market roads to make the farmers more competitive.

This will also make them less reliant to traders who make more money off their produce than the farmers, he added.

Mitchao said farmers groups also need to be financially capacitated so they can develop large farms and become more productive.

To make this possible, he said, they need credit support, technical knowhow, seedlings and better farm inputs.

“Accessibility is the number one problem of our farmers because even if they get a good harvest they do not have the capability of bringing their products to the market,” he said.

Wit h go o d f ar m to market roads, he added,

farmers will not only be able to deliver their agricultural products to the market but they will also be able to ask a good price for the products because they will reach the market in better condition.

Mitchao said they are presently campaigning for the creation of Barangay Agriculturist and Fishery Council (BAFC) to strengthen the consortium among legitimate farmers.

“Some farmers do not even know what Asean 2015 is so they need more interventions,” he added.

(PNA)

Francisco Villaroman, head of the Public Safety and Security Command C enter (PSSC C), s aid they are now looking for six evacuation sites in areas higher than 250 feet that can accommodate as much as 400,000 people from 16 coastal barangays.

Possible evacuation hubs the PSSCC has identified so far include areas in the boundary between Panabo and Davao City, as well as locations in high areas such as Mandug, Tigatto, and Toril.

He said the contingenc y plans his office drafted would also require the Traffic Management Center to identify 25 possible streets and roads that would be used to transport evacuees.

But Villaroman said that the announcement of the specific details would have to come from Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte’s off ice when it prop oses the project to the City

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Council.

The plan also includes the setting up of a command center at the Shrine Hills in Matina.

Villaroman said that evacuating the residents would take three days at most, using buses commissioned by the city government as well as trucks of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The plan, he said, entails his office coordinating with agencies such as Central 911, the Philippine National Police, AFP, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The proposed project – which factors in the building of permanent structures that have food storage, toilet facilities, mess halls, as well as facilities for mothers and children – would cost the city at least P500 million, Villaroman said.

Villaroman said that barangay local govern-

ment units have also been actively participating during the drafting of the plans, with barangay officials present during the planning.

The plan would involve barangay officials being the first responders and information disseminators in case of calamities.

They will also be tapped to marshal the people during the evacuation, he said.

Nurses and doctors are likewise needed in the facilities.

Last month, Duterte tasked Villaroman to design escape routes for lowlying and coastal areas in case of calamities similar to the one that occurred when typhoon Yolanda hit Visayas.

Possible escape routes, according to the mayor, include those via Indangan going up to the uplands and in Matina using the Magtuod route, should a natural disaster in the scale of typhoon Yolanda would hit Davao City.

Duterte asked the public to take typhoon warnings seriously even if the city is surrounded by natural barriers.

10 Mindanao Daily NEWS

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Sarah Geronimo signs on for the second season of ‘The Voice’ in 2014 Last December 16, Sarah Geronimo signed on for another two-year contract with the Kapamilya network in the presence of ABS-CBN executives Charo SantosConcio, Cory Vidanes, and Lauren Dyogi. Also present at the contract-signing were Viva Entertainment’s Vic Del Rosario and Sarah’s mother Divine. “Solid Kapamilya talaga ako, very grateful to be part of ABS-CBN kasi always welcome ako dito at talagang well-loved talaga, well appreciated so where else would I rather be?” she shared.

The 25-year-old singeractress said it was not a hard decision to extend her

contract. “Naku automatic na yan kasi ang ABS-CBN lang ang nagtiwala sa akin from the very start. Sila yung tumanggap sa akin, yung sumugal sa akin nung una kong TV show from Sarah the Teen Princess, sa ASAP winelcome talaga nila ako with open arms so hindi ako aalis.

Kaya talagang hindi na pinagiisipan pa. Talagang masarap po yung pakiramdam na unang una sa lahat mutual yung decision na gusto nila akong na mag-remain sa network nila so I’m thankful,” she said.

This new contract means that for next year, Sarah is confirmed as a judge and mentor on the second season

clifford’s

Daily HOROSCOPE AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18) - Your love life may get a lot more interesting today, especially if you’ve been seeing someone for a while. Even if you’re currently single, you should be struck by someone new and amazing!

PISCES (February 19 – March 20) - You feel not quite up to the task today -- but you still have to give it your best shot. Things are just about to get a lot better, and you can make up for whatever goes down today.

ARIES (March 21 – April 19) - Your playful side is out in force now, and you should find it easier than usual to get a date (if you’re looking) or impress people with your easygoing nature.

Show off a little!

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) - You’re moving at a quicker pace than you would like -- but there’s not much you can do about it just yet. Try to get your people to keep up with you, so you don’t have to play the waiting game.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) - You are feeling pretty hyper-social today, and that means it’s time to get out there and network (or just enjoy yourself). At least one important new person crosses your path today.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22) - Lots of little things need to get done today, and they can become overwhelming if you don’t have a system for dealing with them. Take time tonight to pat yourself on the back for all you accomplished.

from my co-mentors like sila Ms. Lea (Salonga), si Coach Bamboo (Mañalac) at Apl (apl.de.ap) especially dun sa mga contestants so learning experience talaga sa akin so sabi ko hindi ko bibitawan kung gusto nila na andun ako sa show,” she explained.

When it comes to acting, Sarah said she would like to do another episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya but not a regular drama series. “Ang paggawa ng serye talagang mahal ko din yan pero kailangan kong ingatan yung boses ko kasi pagaka-gumagawa ka ng TV series talagang puyatan, explained. yung acting gagamitin mo F o r m o r e K a p a m i l y a talaga yung boses mo,” she updates, log on daily to Push.

of The Voice of the Philippines.

“For sure yung The Voice season two at saka yung mga ibang shows under planning stages pa kung ano ang gagawin. Sa serye mukhang wala pa akong alam, aayusin pa namin. siyempre masaya na gusto pa rin nila ako na maging bahagi ng isa sa mga judges natin at another challenge na naman yan. Talagang challenging maging coach-mentor sa The Voice of the Philippines. There was a point na sabi ko hindi ko na nga ito gagawin ulit kasi sobrang hirap talaga.

Pero sabi ko ang dami kong natutunan sa show na yun, ang dami kong natutunan

Mindanao Daily News’

com.ph and follow Push_Mina on Twitter. push.abs-cbn.com

-GamersTreat-

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CIRCLE A WORD which woman?

amazon frump rani chick heroine spouse donna maid wench

femme frau queen belle gran dame spinster czarina madam

vixen female miss princess begum girl sister crone lass

sultana empress matron woman aunt gals senora colleen

lady squaw dowager mare wife

Battlefield 4: China Rising Fight for dominance across the vast and majestic Chinese mainland in 4 massive maps, using all-new vehicles and high-tech military equipment.

HIGHLIGHTS *Four New Maps *Air Superiority *New Vehicles

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

LEO (July 23 – August 22) - Your social energy is picking up steam, so make sure that you’re talking to the right people. You may meet someone new today who ends up changing your life considerably for the better.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) - YYour energy is out on the extremes today -- but that could be good or bad. Try to just take the day as it comes, as there’s no way to change your fate once it’s set. The good news is that your energy improves tomorrow.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22) - You feel good about where you are emotionally -- so share the good news! Someone close needs to hear from you, and you may rekindle a relationship or repair an old fracture.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) - You may feel tempted to take a risk of some kind today, which means that you could put others at risk as well. Try to take a measured approach to this possibility and do right by everyone involved.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) - You should have so much going on today that you have to prioritize. That isn’t so hard, but at least one person is sure to be unhappy with a choice you make. Give them time to chat -- tomorrow.

CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) - Help out those in need today -- even if you’ve got pressing issues of your own. Karma is more important than ever for you, and there’s no downside to accruing even more. Work that halo!

Amazing Facts!

Did you KNOW?? ..

The octopus is the most intelligent animal in the world that does not have a backbone. Studies have shown they can solve fairly complex problems and are considered to have approximately the same intelligence level as a dog.

CROSSWORD puzzle across 1. Lapu-Lapu’s province 5. Pace 11. Entertain 13. Chemical bond 14. Fasten 15. Electrical unit 17. Mr. Capone 18. Movie alien 19. Yield 20. Tennis #1 Ivanovic 21. Hard substance 23. Jai .— 25. Insect 26. Zadora or Arcangel 27. Highest point 29. Not better 31. American_ 32. Friends character 33. News agency 35. Tantalum’s symbol

36.

37.

38.

40.

42.

43.

Hideouts Mr. Muhlach Sky hunter Go into Bitterness barrel DOWN 1. Cloak 2. Send out 3. Bread 4. America 6. Square piece 7. Disintegrated 8. During 9. Prince Harry’s mom 10. Sweet food 12. Episgde 16. Poem 19. Geometric solid 20. Woe 22. Domesticate

23. Ventilates 24. Trapper 26. Cowboy’s group 28. Ms. Sotto 29. Prevailed 30. Enthusiastic 32. Nevada city 34. Recreational area 36. Famous Dwarf 37. Agustin the PBA MVP 39. Wearing 41. Political party Yesterday’s Answer

Mindanao Daily 11 NEWS

wednesday | december 18, 2013

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

Clash... from page 8

Olivia Samson.

All designs will be judged based on craftsmanship (25 percent), design and concept (25 percent), fitting and presentation (25 percent), and stage bearing and impact (25 percent).

Up for grabs are major prizes of P 50,000, P 30,000 and P 20,000, special awards, and other consolation prizes. (PNA)

Paint... from page 2

contractor of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

He said the absence of proper warning signs may cause accidents for motorists.

It is necessary to ensure the safety of the public, he added.

Abaday said there is no device to warn the public about the project.

The councilor is optimistic that such can minimize accidents even as he asked for more traffic or warning signs along the highway.

The representatives of DPWH assured the committee that they will consider the recommendation of the committee. (ELB)

Orders... from page 1

lasts for a month and is observed to give time for combatants to celebrate the Yuletide Season with their loved ones.

Historically, the AFP still maintain activities supporting the government and civil authorities’ peace, development, and humanitarian assistance programs despite the SOMO declaration. (PNA)

Sale... from page 5

home appliances and travel, and April 7-16, 2014 for active lifestyle and fashion.

There will also be a food festival to be handled by the Restaurants Association of Davao Inc. They aim to engage at least 100 restaurants and food outlets throughout the duration of the sale.

For bookings and inquiries, guests can go to www. cebupacificair.com, or call the reservation hotlines (02)7020-888 or (032)2308888. The latest seat sales can also be found on CEB’s official Twitter (@cebupacificair) and Facebook pages.

CEB’s 47-strong fleet is comprised of 10 Airbus A319, 27 Airbus A320, 2 Airbus A330 and 8 ATR-72 500 aircraft. It is one of the most modern aircraft fleets in the world. Between 2013 and 2021, Cebu Pacific will take delivery of 15 more brand-new Airbus A320, 30 Airbus A321neo, and 4 Airbus A330 aircraft.

12699-2013 granting extra work pay in the amount of P8,000.00 each to all job orders and casuals under the special projects/ programs; Ordinance No. 12700-2013 reverting and/ or realigning the amount of P12,888,977.00 from the item “continuing appropriations cy 2006-capital outlay” in the City Public Services Office and reappropriating the same to be made available for the item “priority program: City Students Scholarship Program”; and Ordinance No. 12701-2013 appropriating the sum of p750,000.00 from various “other mooe-consultants savings” to be made available to augment the lumpsum allocation for terminal leave benefits in the 2013 annual budget”.

Gift...

Traffic...

Good...

to the economic enterprise. The rest were taken from “reversion of accounts payable” such as hazard pay for Provincial Indigency Health Project (PIHP) (P860T), subsistence allowance (P3.2 million), salary differential (P1.3 million), and payables (P507T) .

Most of the additional budget in Supplemental Budget No. 06 is sourced from “savings from nonoffice” accounts for a total of P81.1 million. A total of P43.8 million was also sourced from “savings from different offices” with P34.2 million from the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) and P9.6 million from “personal services”.

The joint certification of availability of funds released by provincial accountant Richel Okit and acting provincial treasurer Teodora Dinlayan lumped under savings from “nonoffice” about P78.9 million.

The other items in “non office” are MOOE of P1.4 million from SP (Sangguniang Panlalawigan) Special Allocation and MOOE of P793T from allocation for the Organic Agriculture Act (RA 10068).

Which offices were able to have how much savings was not shown in the document.

Gov. Jose Ma. R. Zubiri Jr. announced during the Monday convocation program on December 2 that the PEI would be around P60,000 per employee.

The provincial government was reported to have released PEIs of P70,000 to regular and casual employees last year. It was P60,000 in 2011, and P80,000 in 2010.

will be conducting consultations with interested media outfits, including the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP).

In a related development, Avila said motorists have been asking for more information from the city government regarding the city’s recent speed limits.

Executive Order No. 39, which was recently released by the City Mayor’s Office, dictates speed limits at 30 kph, 40 kph and 60 kph in different parts of the city. “ There has been no formal complaint yet, but we have heard people still asking about which parts of the city has specific speed limits. This means that there is a further need for more information,” Avila said.

Avila said that the transportation committee is still waiting for an official report from the TMC regarding how effective EO39 is.

In an earlier interview, former Traffic Management Center chief Dionisio Abude had said that information tarpaulins have been installed on the city’s overpasses.

Several billboards in the city also define the speed limits, including one sign near the Sangguniang Panlungsod building, as well as an advertising space near Quimpo boulevard.

“It’s not enough for tarpaulins to be installed around the city,” Avila said, adding that the city needs to abide by international standards of information materials being made available at certain intervals from 200 to 500 meters.

The Traffic Management Group has recently acquired 11 traffic guns to make it easier to detect and apprehend violators.

A speed limit of 60 kph has been mandated for vehicles driving from Sirawan to Ulas Crossing, from Lasang to Panacan, from Calinan to Ulas Crossing, and from C.P Gracia Highway-McArthur Highway to Panacan.

For vehicles traveling from Ulas to Generoso Bridge/Bolton Bridge, from Panacan Crossing to J.P Lau-

in a better mood. “Take time out before you take it out on each other!” As one lady who‘d been married over 35 years said: “I’ve learned never to tell my husband bad news on an empty stomach!”

The 2nd guideline is to allow the other person the right to say, “I’m angry.”

Let them tell you how they feel. If we don’t let others express their anger in a healthy way, then it will continue to build up until we finally blow up! Then we can deeply hurt each other with the angry, even hateful, things we say and do. Remember, our feelings are not right or wrong, but they’re still real; so we need to allow each other the freedom to say how we feel.

Number 3: Know exactly why you’re angry.

Sometimes the thing that started us feeling so angry was only a small even silly thing. But behind it is the real problem which we need to talk about it.

The 4th guideline to fighting in marriage is to realize that your anger is the enemy, not your wife or husband. So stay on the same side and fight together against the anger that’s hurting your family.

The final guideline is you have to invite God to the fight. You need to ask Jesus Christ to take control of your heart and marriage.

Only He can give you the willpower, love and selfcontrol you need to start winning your fight against your uncontrolled anger that will hurt, even destroy, your marriage and family.

Just Think a Minute.

from page 1

Budget... from page 2

and P6,789,008.00; Ordinance No. 12698-2013 reverting and/or realigning the sum of P21,928,748.04 and P3,187,850.00 in the general fund and special from page 4 account from the item daily relief distribution “continuing appropriationreport for the affected fami- capital outlay” of various lies, while ensuring that offices; Ordinance No.

Areas...

rel Avenue-Alcantara, and from Ma-a Road Diversion to McArthur Highway, the speed limit is 40 kph.

From J.P Laurel Ave. Alcantara to Bolton/Generoso Bridge, from Buhangin Crossing-Milan to Bolton/ Generoso Bridge, from C.P Garcia Highway-Bacaca Road to Bolton/Generoso Bridge, and from C.P Garcia Highway-Angliongto St. to Bolton/Generoso Bridge, the speed limit has been set to 30 kph. (MindaNews)

provision of relief is conducted in the dignified and orderly manner.

Recruitment, orientation and mobilization of volunteers on the ground is also one of the team’s responsibility, while close coordination with other sectors in their volunteer needs mus also be addressed.

Their target is to train new 143 voluteers in the area and maintain list of those volunteers with address, phone numbers and email address.

The four PRC-AdS personnel set foot in Leyte on December 5, 2013 and will be back here in Agusan del Sur on December 29, 2013.

The will be spending their Christmas with the typhoon victims and the new year with their very own families.

from page 1

Power... from page 7

investigate the effects of the EPIRA on power consumers and on national development. In the immediate, the state should also mandate a moratorium on any power rate increase. from page 7

READ!

www.businessweekmindanao.com

Moreno okays X’mas bazaar near Rodelsa STARTING Monday (December 16, 2013, the by-pass road adjacent to the old Sports Zone driving range that connects the extension roads of Apolinar Velez Street and Masterson Avenue in Rodelsa Rotunda is turned into a Christmas Trade Fair.

This, after City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno recently issued Executive Order No. 234-2013 establishing a temporary Christmas dry goods market in the said area starting from December 16, 2013 until January 4, 2014.

In his order, Mayor Moreno reasoned that whenever Christmas season is approaching, shoppers always look for bargain and sale events where they could purchase agricultural products, dry goods, ready-to-wear clothes, footwear, accessories, wares and similar items at lower prices.

While the Christmas industrial-cum-trade fair will promote festive, safe and meaningful celebration, it will also help sellers or small-time traders to augment their income during the Christmas season, the mayor added.

To give convenience and comfort to the buyers and shoppers, Mayor Moreno at the same time ordered the temporary closure of the said road. (CIO)

Zamboanga City siege victims to receive cash aid from ICRC, PRC ZAMBOANGA City––The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), has come up with a cash assistance program that would benefit some 5,000 families, including Badjaos, displaced by the standoff last September in this city.

Victor Liozo Jr., PRCZamboanga City Chapter administrator, said in a telephone interview Tuesday that the ICRC has allocated the amount of P33 million for the program.

He said that each member of the identified familybeneficiaries will receive P1,100, which means “the bigger the family the higher the amount they will receive.”

Liozo said the familybeneficiaries were identified through the assistance of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) as well as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that are attending to the

displaced families.

He said that for a family to be entitled to receive the cash, they should be staying at the evacuation centers until now.

He said the cash assistance program is aimed to address the needs of the displaced families in evacuation centers, citing they may use the money to purchase food and other necessities.

Distribution of the cash assistance, Liozo said, will be made in batches starting Wednesday until Saturday at the Vitaliano Agan Coliseum.

He said they have tapped the assistance of the Philippine Postal Corporation (Philpost) to distribute the money to the identified beneficiaries.

“We already conducted an orientation to them (the beneficiaries) and they were given a sort of a claim stub to present in claiming the money,” he said, citing that a scheduled has been set for each batch. (MindaNews)

DepEd-Misoc to hold Golden Jars Awards OROQUIETA City, Misamis Occidental––The Department of Education, Division of Misamis Occidental (DepEd), has set to recognize the exemplary performance and significant contributions of its employees under the Golden Jars Awards at Punta Meriam Resort, in Panaon on Dec. 20, this year.

The Golden Jars Awards will be along the areas of innovation, information and communication technology, social services and public policy, Dr. Jonathan S. Dela Pe?a, Schools Division Superintendent, said.

Now on its 3rd year, the awards is consistent with the DepEd Order on establishing a Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE), in the Division, whose committee include Dela Pe?a, as Chairperson, Edna B. Dumaog, Education Program Supervisor, Vice Chairperson, and the following members: Felcor Blanco, Para Talip, Ernie Caguindangan and Luzminda Chan.

Meanwhile, Dela Peña said nominees have been requested to fill up the nomination forms for the Awards, and School Heads have been requested to nominate at least one teacher per school for any of these categories: Outstanding Innovative Research Work, Outstanding Innovative Implementation of Instruction, Outstanding Innovative Instructional Material, Outstanding Innovative Community-Engaging Project, Outstanding Innovative Values-Enhancement Project (I Am Hip-Hop) Implementation.

Included under the School Head Category (Elementary and Secondary) are Outstanding Innovative Teacher Development Program, Outstanding Innovative Community Project, Outstanding Innovative Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Project, Outstanding Innovative Resource Management and Academic Enhancement Project. RC-Aguhob/PIA-10

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

Sports

wednesday | december 18, 2013 Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

Buenavista, Tabal reign in 37th Milo Marathon finals, to represent PHL in Paris Eduardo Buenavista and Mary Joy Tabal claimed the right to represent the Philippines in the Paris Marathon on April 6, 2014 as they triumphed over their rivals in the 37th Milo Marathon national finals on Sunday morning.

Buenavista, a two-time Olympian, reigned in the 42-kilometer main race with a commanding time of 2:27:14 to seize victory for a second straight year and a fifth win in the marathon's finals.

He was over five minutes ahead of Rene Desuyo who crossed the finish line in 2:32:34. Irineo Raquin placed third with 2:32:57.

Buenavista did better than his time last year of 2:29:45, but he fell short of

his goal of surpassing James Tallam (2:18:41), who competed in the open category and had the second-best time there.

Mary Joy Tabal sped to victory with a recordbreaking 2:48:00 for local women's 42K races. She had a lead of over six minutes against Mary Grace de los Santos, who came in at 2:54:27.

Buenavista qualified for the 37th Milo Marathon finals via the earlier Baguio leg.

Tabal advanced from Cebu, where she has reigned for three consecutive years with John Philip Dueñas as her coach. She placed second in last year's 42K race. — Earl Victor Rosero, GMA News Mary Joy Tabal (L) and Eduardo Buenavista show off their trophies after their wins. Jeff Venancio

Miami soccer fan cleared of charges after Cristiano Ronaldo hug

Cristiano Ronaldo. Juan Medina / Reuters

MIAMI - A prosecutor on Monday (Tuesday, PHL time) dropped charges against a 20-year-old college student who jumped out of the stands, ran onto the field and hugged Real Madrid soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo during an exhibition match in Miami in August.

The Portugal striker personally intervened in the case of Ronald Gjoka, a Canadian who faced charges of disorderly conduct and trespassing after the incident in the second half of the International Champions Cup match between Real and Chelsea.

After learning of Gjoka's legal predicament, Ronaldo wrote a letter to the prosecutor in the case appealing for the charges to be dropped.

"We are happy to announce the prosecutor today dropped the charges against our client in open court," Richard Hujber, a lawyer for Gjoka, said on Monday (Tues-

day, PHL time).

"In particular, we thank Cristiano Ronaldo for all his assistance and consideration in this important matter involving a young college student with an extremely bright future."

Gjoka, who attends Palm Beach State Community College, said he hoped to have a chance one day thank the star personally. "My dream now is just to see him again to say thanks," he said.

Wearing a No. 7 Ronaldo shirt, Gjoka sprinted onto the field during the August 7 match and did a knee slide, imitating the striker's traditional goal-scoring celebration.

He then stood up and embraced the star, who reacted calmly and chatted with Gjoka during a hug that lasted almost a minute and elicited wild cheers from the crowd of 70,000 fans. Security guards then escorted Gjoka off the field. - Reuters

DepEd Calamba City schools division opens city sports tourney CALAMBA CITY, Laguna Dec. 16 (PNA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) Calamba division of city schools opened their sports tournament known as the “DepEd City Meet 2013” at the City Plaza over the weekend.

The city sports competitions were supervised by the DepEd School Sports Events and Activities Units (SSEAU) covering various city schools.

DepEd Calamba assistant school division superintendent Dr. Lourdes T. Bermudez said the yearly city sports activities provide the arena to identify the city’s best athletes who will compose the sports delegations for the Calabarzon regional sports events.

Dr. Bermudez explained that sports events go through the elimination round following the hierarchy of events categories.

The participants included elementary to secondary sporting delegations from Calamba schools.

The Sports organizing committee members said the SSEAUs select and train further the athletes-contenders with the “winning potential” for the national sports event “Palarong Pambansa” scheduled summer next year with Laguna as the winning host province.

Calamba City and Laguna contenders including the Calabarzon regional contingents also look forward to the ASEAN Games to be hosted by the country in December 2014.

The city’s weekend sports events opened with field demonstration exercises and the cheer dance competition.

Various indoor and outdoor games were featured in the City Meet 2013 by the various city schools. (PNA)

Petron's Cabagnot named PBA player of the Week MANIL A, After rehabilitating his foot injury for two months, Petron Blaze pointguard Alex Cabagnot returned with a huge amount of confidence after spearheading his team to two nail-biting victories that earned him the honor of being the Accel-PBA Press C orps Player of the Week for the period of December.9-15.

The six foot guard finished with an average of 13.5 points,5.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists in his first two games after recovering from his injury.

In his first game back against Air21,Cabagnot just scored 10 points, but none was bigger than his game-winning jumper that helped the Boosters to escape with a pulsating 90-88 triumph.

Three days later,the h ot - s h o ot i ng c ou r t general torched the Meralco Bolts with 17 big points,to go along with eight rebounds and six assists in Petron's 77-73 victory.

With this two notable wins,the Boosters are now sitting atop the PBA standings with an unscathed 7-0 record.

Cabagnot edged teammate June Mar Fajardo,Ginebra's Japhet Aguilar,Greg Slaughter and Marc B ar a c a el as wel l as Solomon Mercado of Globalport for the weekly citation.

Coach Gee Abanilla praised his pointguard's mindset after coming off a horrible injury,"I like the way he's been winning his mental battle from his injur y,proving to be one of the leaders of t his te am,w hich we really need,"(PNA)