The Updates by Rico Biliran

All set for "Bike for Hope Davao;" Biking priest joins Sen. Pia

2009-01-31T22:13:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/29 Jan) -- The stage is all set for the "Bike for Hope" Davao which reels off Saturday (Jan. 31) in this city and will culminate in the province of Davao del Norte's capital, Tagum City, covering a total of 101-kilometers.

Hundreds of biking enthusiasts across the island and those from Manila and Cebu have signified their entry in the bike for a cause organized by Senator Pia Cayetano in memory of her late father, Senator Compañero Rene L. Cayetano.

"Everything is in place and we are ready for this weekend's Bike for Hope Davao," Ani de Leon, Bike for Hope Davao spokesperson, told sports journalists here during the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association Forum Thursday.

The youthful lady senator, known for using her passion in biking to reach out to the grassroots, will lead the participants in the advocacy fun ride that promotes healthy and fit living and concern for the environment.

She will be joined by biking Redemptorist priest Amado Picardal who biked the route on Monday and completed the course in five hours and 30 minutes, pedaling at a very relaxed pace averaging 20 km per hour.

"It was a very wonderful ride. I just enjoyed the feeling of the wind caressing my face," said Picardal, who is also a university professor and academic dean, during the sports forum .

Picardal, known as the "biking priest" since he started riding long distances on bikes to push his advocacy for peace and good government, said the participants can look forward to the "joy of riding a bike", most especially since the event has a noble cause.

De Leon said seminars on various topics, including clean environment, breastfeeding, violence against women and children and the "Pinay In Action" running and fitness clinic for public high school students are ongoing in this city to usher the biking event organized by Comapañero Rene Cayetano Foundation in cooperation with Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Vice Mayor Sara Duterte.

Other activities include seminars on Hepatitis-B vaccination for barangay health workers by Sanofi and public awareness against fake drugs by the Samahan Laban sa Pekeng Gamot, added De Leon, who was accompanied by tri-athlete George Vilog who discussed the route in the sports forum.

In an interview, Neilwin Joseph Bravo, spokesperson of Davao del Norte provincial sports coordinator Anthony del Rosario, said seminars will also be conducted in several towns in Davao del Norte where the fun ride will pass by.

Kicking off at the Shell station in Barangay Ma-a here, the advocacy ride will proceed to Davao del Norte, passing Panabo City and the towns of Carmen, Sto. Tomas, Kapalong and Asuncion, and will end at the Davao del Norte provincial capitol compound in Tagum City.

Mayor Duterte was invited to fire the starting gun, signaling the start of the long bike journey for hope.

Bike for Hope was first organized by Sen. Cayetano and her siblings in 2004 following the death of their father from complications of a liver illness. The event has been raising funds to support indigent liver patients and assist unfunded health programs in public hospitals across the country. It has been staged in Bicol, Laguna, Misamis Oriental, Ilocos Region, Cebu and twice in Baguio. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Consul invites Davao councilors to witness Australian sporting event

2009-01-31T22:09:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/7 Jan) -- The Philippine consul general in Australia’s Northern Territory today invited city councilors to visit Darwin during the Arafura Games and meet with their counterparts for possible future agreements, including sporting linkages.

In a press conference at a local restaurant here, consul general John Rivas personally invited councilors Susabel Reta, Rachel Zozobrado and Peter Laviña, who represented Vice Mayor Sara Duterte, to join the Davao delegation to the international games slated May 9-17 in Darwin, capital of Northern Territory.

“They can watch the games there and at the same time meet with [their counterparts] for possible linkages in education, trade and sporting events,” said Rivas.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William “Butch” Ramirez recognized the significance of a sports-related friendship agreement between Darwin and this city in the past.

“There was already a friendship agreement before but it became dormant due to lack of follow up,” he said. Rivas’s invitation could be a way to renew ties, said Ramirez, who arranged Rivas’s visit to this city.

The councilors verbally agreed to revive the agreement, saying “this new effort through sports could help us a lot”.

“Not only in the in field of sports but also in trade, education and cultural exchange,” said Laviña, who is also the president of the Davao City Sports Council, Inc. (DCSCI).

Laviña sees a possible sister-city agreement in the future with Darwin, which has grown from a pioneer outpost and small port into one of Australia's most modern and multicultural cities. Its two largest economic sectors are mining and tourism.

Rivas said all sports facilities in Darwin are already in place for the Arafura Games, touted as a leading international sporting competition of the emerging champions of the Asia.

He said that renovations to some of the venues are being made but all facilities are ready. He added that 4,000 athletes, coaches and officials are expected to go to Darwin for the games.

There are 27 sport disciplines lined up in the event held every two years since 1991.

For Davao City, Ramirez advised it should send the best athletes since it needs a lot of money to go to Australia and compete in the Arafura Games.

“We have good athletes here but the problem is money. That's why for the City of Davao, it should send the best athletes who has chances to win,” said Ramirez, a former city sports coordinator before going to the PSC.

Davao City started sending athletes to the games in 1997. It was the PSC chief who headed the delegation.

The Arafura Games will be on the top agenda when the DCSCI, the sports body composed of regional heads of the National Sports Associations, holds its monthly meeting on January 13. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Ex-PSC chief to enter politics

2009-01-31T22:00:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/25 January) -- Former Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chair William “Butch” Ramirez last week declared his intention to enter politics and said it “depends on Mayor Rodrigo Duterte as to what position”.

“Rody (Duterte) is the barometer. It depends to the mayor as to what position (I will aspire for),“ Ramirez said three days after President Arroyo accepted his resignation as chair of the national sports agency

In a press conference Saturday, Ramirez, 58, who served for ten years in the PSC, said he will not run without the blessing of Duterte, his former boss

The former Ateneo de Davao University professor said “religious groups and some individuals” are pushing him to run for the congressional seat in the city's first district occupied by House Speaker Prospero Nograles. Nograles ran for mayor but lost to Duterte in the 1990s.

Like Duterte, Nograles is also serving his last term.

Duterte appointed Ramirez as city sports coordinator several years back. A few days following his appointment, the mayor sent him to Australia as the city's head of delegation to the 2001 Arafura Games in Darwin that enabled Ramirez to see the “world of sports.”

Ramirez said the mayor has a well-established political machinery “and more to that, the mayor has a good heart for the poor, he is a good politician and a good lawyer”.

“I don't have any association with other politicians. It's only with the mayor, that's why my entry to politics lies in him. It's up to him what position (I will aspire for).

Ramirez submitted his resignation following the country's dismal performance in the Beijing Olympics last August.

Ramirez had been very vocal about his intention to help the sports program of Davao City the moment he would leave PSC where he served as regional representative in 1998 before he was appointed as commissioner in 2000 and its chair in 2005. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

On Ramirez' resignation: PSC's loss is Davao City's gain

2009-01-31T21:51:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/22 Jan) -- It is the city government of Davao that would "gain much" from the departure of William "Butch" Ramirez at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for he can now focus his energy on Davao sports, local sports leaders said.

"It's PSC's loss and the bright side would be, its Davao City's gain," said Moses Billacura, officer-in-charge of the City Sports Development Division (CSDD).

Joseph Encabo, the PSC chief's senior executive assistant, confirmed reports that Malacañang had accepted the resignation of Ramirez as chairman of the PSC, putting an end to the former Ateneo de Davao University professor's 10-year stint at the national sports agency, 3 of which as its head.

Ramirez submitted his resignation following the country's dismal performance in the Beijing Olympics last August.

Long before his resignation was accepted, Ramirez had been very vocal about his intention to help the sports program of Davao City the moment he would depart from the PSC where he served as regional representative in 1998 before he was appointed as commissioner in 2000 and its chairman in 2005.

Billacura said Ramirez,58, one of the longest serving PSC officials, would help the Duterte administration in the area of sports.

"He (Ramirez) has been wishing to come home and has expressed his desire to help sports in Davao City," said Billacura, who was one of the staff of Ramirez when he was the city sports chief of Duterte several years back.

With the homecoming of Ramirez, expect more changes at the CSDD as the man who was largely credited when the Philippines won the overall Southeast Asian Games in 2005 would bring his exceptional sports leadership in this city, Billacura said.

"We have a lot of work to do," he added. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Abap to set tup training center in Mindanao

2009-01-31T21:48:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/8 Jan) -- The new leadership of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) is planning to set up a regional training center in Mindanao, and president Ricky Vargas wants to put it up in this city.

"We prefer to set it up in Davao City and make this city as a center for Mindanao," Vargas told sports journalists in a press briefing following a consultative meeting with the boxing stakeholders in the region.

But Vargas clarified that they would not intervene on the decision of the stakeholders as to where they want to put up the training center.

" If they have other place in mind, it would be up to them," added Vargas, who was accompanied by ABAP secretary-general Patrick Gregorio.

With regards to where to set up the training center, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William "Butch" Ramirez said boxing stakeholders across the island will discuss it during the ABAP national congress in Bacolod City on January 14-17.

Ramirez, who is a member of the board of directors of ABAP in the Davao Region, said it is best that stakeholders all over Mindanao, who are expected to attend the national congress, be consulted on the issue.

Vargas, who also held a consultative meeting Wednesday in Baguio City, came here to seek support from the stakeholders in the region aimed at helping improve the programs of ABAP.

The ABAP chief sought the help of Cotabato Vice Gov. Manny Piñol, former Davao del Norte congressman Tony Boy Floreindo and Ramirez.

"Hopefully, with their assistance we can do better for the development of the sport of boxing," said Vargas.

Piñol said they have gone out their way in helping boxing in the country but the problem is with ABAP. "ABAP is very exclusive. They don’t want others to help them. They are not even helping local chapters, " Piñol said, referring to the previous ABAP leadership.

Having a good program and a bunch of potential boxers, Piñol pointed out, "we just need a little help".

For his part, Ramirez said that the set up of the coaching staff needs to be overhauled because some of them have been there for many years.

With the training center, according to the PSC chief, ABAP can get the best coaches and conduct coaches’ leadership seminars, among others.

"It would help us take a smooth quality development of boxing in the country," said Ramirez.

Vargas visited the boxing facilities at the back of the Davao City Recreation Center where more than 20 boxers have been training hard. His observation: "It’s not in good shape".

"But there are lots of potential young boxers, " he noted. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Davao Del Norte maps out sports dev't plan

2008-04-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

TAGUM CITY, Davao Del Norte (MindaNews / April 4) – The opening rites
of the first-ever Davao Del Norte Sports Summit on Thursday prepared the red
carpet for the provincial government's journey towards making the province as
the region's sports capital.



Addressing the opening rites of the two-day sports summit at the
Bulwagan ng Lalawigan here, Gov. Rodolfo Del Rosario said he believed that the
summit and the "redevelopment" of the provincial sports complex "would make
the biggest banana exporting province as the region's sports hub".



"(Davao del Norte) is the region's sports capital in the making," said
Del Rosario. " The possibilities are boundless and this is where it all
begins," He added.



The summit was graced by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman
William "Butch" Ramirez.



Del Rosario said "this is the beginning of the comprehensive genuine
sports development program of the province".



Former Vice Governor Anthony Del Rosario, the governor's son and
currently the provincial sports chief, said that "with the active participation
of all the provincial sports stakeholders, the province will have a genuine
sports development program that focus on sport disciplines where local
athletes have good chances in excelling".



"With your active participation and through this sports summit we can
map out a genuine strategic plan for sports development," the younger Del
Rosario told the summit that was attended also by barangay captains,
chairpersons of the Sangguniang Kabataan chapters and private sports
groups.



"This is the kind of program that needs to be sustained. We really need
to
set direction for our sports development programs," said Danny
Sumalinog, a
sports summit participant from Island Garden City of Samal.



Ramirez said that the completion of its sports complex in 2010, the
province
"perhaps, could be the regional training center in the south".



"We will no longer go to Manila, we will just train here. This is the
better
place to live, away from pollution, and work for the future champions
of the
country," said Ramirez.



The Davao Del Norte sports complex project was also unveiled during the
summit.







Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Del Norte unanimously
approved in special session on Wednesday the resolution authorizing the
provincial government to enter into a loan agreement with Land Bank of
the
Philippines.



"We have approved the authority to borrow P500 million, and the P250
million
of that will be used for the sports complex," Vice Governor Victorio
Suaybaguio, Jr., said.



The construction of the proposed P250-million sports complex will start
soon, according to the provincial engineers office.



The 15-hectare sports complex will rise in Barangay Mankilam across the
province's Government Center, where the old sports complex once stood
until
it was razed by fire in March 2003.



The complex would have a total of 49 spans of concrete bleachers, a
rehabilitated and upgraded Olympic-sized swimming pool, a modern oval
track
with rubberized track materials and synthetic foot soccer field.



"The swimming pool and track oval will have eight lanes," said
provincial
engineer Josie Jean Rabanoz.



The complex would also have a parking area that could accommodate more
than
300cars.  (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

City gov't awards cash incentives to Davaoeño Thailand Seag medalists

2008-04-04T18:56:00.000-07:00


DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / April 4) – Twenty medallists in last year's
Southeast Asian Games in Thailand who hailed from here received cash
gifts from the city government "for bringing honor and pride to the city and
the country".



The medallists were top-billed by Olympic-bound divers Shiela Mae Perez
and Ryan Rexel Fabriga, who each received P25,000 each for their single
gold and silver medals respectively.



Acting Mayor Sara Z. Duterte awarded cash incentives to the Davaoeño
athletes on Wednesday in a brief awarding rite held at the Pag-asa Bar of the Marco
Polo Hotel.



Duterte handed over a total of P260,000 cash gifts with  gold medal winner took home P15, 000
while the silver and bronze medal medallist got P10,000 and P5,000, respectively.



Perez and Fabriga personally received their cash bonus from Duterte but
many of the other awardees were in Manila. Their parents received the awards
on their behalf.



Last December, the Davaoeño medalists also received cash incentives
from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.



"More than the cash gift, we congratulate them (the athletes) for
bringing honor and pride for the city and the country," Duterte said.



She encouraged the athletes "to continue to work hard for better
glory".



"We are very thankful for the cash bonus given by Vice Mayor Duterte,"
said Rodrigo Porala, father of Ruditha who was part of the 10-member women's
traditional boat race that won bronze medal in the 1,000-meter contest.



Luvelyn Maganda, who played a vital role in the gold medal finish of
the national softball squad, brought home P15,000. Cue artist Lee Van
Corteza and Mary Anne Basas got P10,000 apiece for winning silver in the men's
9-ball and women's 6-Red snooker, respectively.



Other awardees were marathoner Jho-Ann Banayag (silver), batters Edmer
Del Socorro and RuelBatuto (bsilver), golfer Jhonnel Ababa (silver),
traditional boar racer Amina Anuddi and Sanita Kasim (silver), diver Jaime Asok
(gold),
diver Zardo Domenios and Nino Carog (silver), tri-athlete George Vilog
(silver), sailor Richly Magsanay (silver), judoka Ruth Duga-Duga
(bronze)
and water polo team member-brothers Frazier and Norton Alamara and
Monsuito
Pelenio (silver).   (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Pinoy US-based coach to conduct seminar in Davao City

2008-04-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/01 April) -- Three years ago, he left this city for the US to be with his family where he eventually continued his coaching career as assistant coach for a high school basketball team.
And now, with the world class basketball knowledge he learned in the US, Ronel Leuterio will be back to conduct a free seminar for Davao coaches on April 10 to 11 at Barangay 35-D gym.

The project, jointly organized by the basketball association and the city's sports development division under sports coordinator Christopher “Bong” Go, is open to all Davao coaches who are willing to know about the latest trends in coaching in the U.S.

The Chicago-based Leuterio has attended many seminars and conferences in his three years in the U.S. and will be coming to share his knowledge, including his newly-developed "Spread Offense".

The “Spread Offense” is a result of a three-year work of Leuterio who attended numerous seminars under U.S. college coaches.

“It is an offense that is out of the box, something unconventional. The positions are different or at least they are viewed in a different way,” he said in an email from Chicago.

He said basketball is usually thought of in terms of point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, and center.

“It is not 1, 2,3,4,5 like most teams do. Here you have two guards, two forwards, and a center. The guards and forwards are interchangeable, the center is the only position that is not,” he added.

Leuterio coached the Ateneo High School to several championships in local and national tournaments before he left for the US.

He is best remembered for mentoring the Ateneo HS team that won the Milo BEST national title in Cebu. He was also an assistant coach of the Davao Eagles in the Metropolitan Basketball Association, a short-lived play-for-pay league.

For more information about the seminar, contact the sports division at 2278074 and look for seminar coordinator Bert Malinao. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

Cultural exchange to mark 6th BIMP-EAGA Games

2008-03-27T01:51:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/25 March) - A four-nation "youth exchange program" will coincide with the holding of the 6th Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines -East Asian Growth Association (BIMP-EAGA) Friendship Games on November 28 to 30 in Brunei Darussalam.

The youth from the four countries' growth areas will promote their respective cultures and economic movement, among others.

"This is the first time that we will hold this program and we recognize the importance of this program," said Haji Matassim Bim Jibah, director of Brunei Ministry of Cultural, Youth and Sports during the friendship games road show here Tuesday.

He added the program, acknowledged as a significant side event of the biennial meet, will boost the growing good relationship of the four nations.

The BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games was conceived in 1995 as a venue for sports development, as well as educational and cultural exchange among athletes from the four countries. It aims to promote opportunities to intensify interaction among peoples and governments within BIMP-EAGA other than trade and enhance unity and cooperation among the youth of participating countries through friendly sports.

Joseph Encabo, Mindanao representative to the BIMP-EAGA Sports Council, said the participants in this "holistic program" will learn the culture and economic movement, among others of Brunei and other growth areas in the region.Eight slots are allotted to the Philippines or four apiece for Mindanao and Palawan, according to Encabo who is also the senior executive assistant to Philippine Sports Commission chairman William "Butch" Ramirez.

Asked who will represent Mindanao, he said "we are encouraging local government units to send representatives to discuss their cultures and economic movement in this holistic program".

Encabo explained that the LGU's will only shoulder the airfare to and from the venue.The host country will bear the cost of accommodation, food and inland transportation, said Haji Jibah, adding Brunei is well prepared for the 6th edition of the Games.

Carrying the theme "Cooperation through sports", the four-nation friendship games, touted as a venue for strengthening economic cooperation in the region, will feature competitions in athletics, aquatics, sepak takraw, badminton, futsal, tennis and pencak silat.

Traditionally, the choice of events depends on the limited budget available for the athletes' transportation and needs of the host country and its growth area.

Since it also aims to promote friendship, the BIMP-EAGA sports council has preferred to feature mostly non-contact sports."We have already discussed the aspect of logistics issue and also the accommodation of the participants," said Haji Jibah.

There are 13 growth areas who are participating in the meet: Brunei Darrusalam, Gorontalo, East Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, Central Sulawesi, South East Sulawesi and West Papua of Indonesia, Sabah, Sarawak and Federal territory of Labuan of Malaysia and Palawan and Mindanao of the Philippines.

Team Mindanao-Philippines will be composed of athletes from the island whose participation will be bankrolled by their LGUs."LGUs will take care of the airfare of their athletes and the rest of the operational expenses will be shouldered by the PSC," Encabo clarified.

In 2005, Team Mindanao-Philippines bannered by athletes from Davao City, Davao Oriental, Panabo City, Gen. Santos City and Koronadal City placed third overall. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

Give little support to sports, firms asked

2008-03-27T01:43:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/06 March) - The British chief executive officer and founder of the American style restaurant here yesterday encouraged corporations to provide support to organizations that help "the people of Davao, especially the kids."

Alan W. Barnett, CEO and founder of the Al's Diner, cited American boxing patron Ron Doran, who helps train young boxers to stand out in the sport.

"As a business, we have a responsibility to the city where our business is situated to help the people in any possible way," Barnett told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum at the Tower Inn Hotel.

Al's Diner, touted as the little restaurant that cares and home of the giant burger, sponsored the uniforms of the Davao City boxing team under Doran that saw action in the recent Kalilangan festival boxing competition in Gen. Santos City.

After four days of competition, the team brought home two gold, three silver and four bronze medals. A victory party for the triumphant boxers is scheduled on March 8, 2 p.m. at Al's Diner.

Barnett promised to give P1,000 as incentive to the gold medal winners, brothers Engilbert and John Vincent Morante, and P500 and P250 to the silver and bronze medal victors, respectively.

Concerned over the lack of equipment for the daily training of the young boxers, the restaurateur said he is now encouraging other corporations to extend any assistance to the kids who train in rings with holes and without light.

He cited that helping this kind of endeavor is "just giving thank you to the community, the people of Davao, in practical way and it's also an investment in the future".

"Their business comes from the people of Davao and just give back to the people of Davao," said Barnett.

Doran said he is seeking for corporate sponsors to take care of the needs of the young boxers, mostly indigent kids. Jonas Aleonar, regional sales manager of Petron Corporation, said their company has been supportive to the sports development programs in the localities.

"We are supporting various sports programs just like in volleyball, basketball and taekwondo,” said Aleonar who also graced the forum to give an update on the ongoing Petron Basketball Tournament.

Sports organizers acknowledged the vital role of corporate sponsors in staging tournaments as part of the sports development programs saying “without corporate sponsors the program usually dies". (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: Davao del Norte to boost grassroots sports dev't program

2008-03-27T01:39:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/17 March) – Grassroots sports development program in Davao del Norte will get a boost with the provincial government eyeing to focus on sport disciplines where local athletes have good chances in excelling.

Former vice governor Anthony Del Rosario, the provincial sports coordinator, said it was time to give attention to this ‘forgotten’ program.

Del Rosario, 41, acknowledged the importance of sports development program and its impact to the community which, he said should be understood by the people of Davao del Norte.

He also announced the staging of a two-day sports summit in cooperation with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Sports Institute on April 3-4 with at least 600 participants expected.

The bulk of these delegates will come from the barangays, the public schools, and the youth sector, he said, adding he hopes that the sports summit would "strengthen our ranks" from the provincial government down to the barangay government.

"We need to achieve a common bond and a common goal to have a uniform program and common direction for sports," he said.

The sports official said he expects the stakeholders to identify the focus sports where the athletes from the province would excel nationally or internationally.

He also encouraged the barangays to formulate their own sports programs anchored on their chosen focus sports using funds for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).

A true-blue sportsman, Del Rosario said he is seeking an additional P2-million budget for his office which is only receiving an annual allocation of P1-million.

Davao del Norte has laid down the groundwork for a reinvigorated thrust towards positioning itself as a major sports destination in the country.

Gov. Rodolfo Del Rosario made three major bold steps towards achieving that goal. First, he appointed his son, Anthony to head the province’s sports front office.

Second, he programmed the reconstruction of the burned old sports complex into a spanking new state-of-the-art facility. Third, he conducted a province-wide consultative sports summit to redirect the policies and programs on sports. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: VM Duterte's team rules Davao City cycling tourney

2008-03-27T01:22:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/24 March) -- Team Inday Sara did it again.

The wards of Vice Mayor Sara Duterte ruled the recent Mayor Rodrigo Duterte – 71st Araw ng Dabaw Cycling Challenge here.Team Inday Sara, which won the Samal Cycling challenge last month, clocked in fifteen hours, eight minutes and 23 seconds to rule the 154-kilometer race.

University of Mindanao placed second with a time of 15:13.20, trailing most of the way Team Inday Sara bannered by Marcial Catangue, Glen Yap, Dany Tapao, Tatu Labaya, Alan Salutillo, and team captain Rosano Bontia.Team 3MJ-Gen.Santos ended its campaign at third place with 15:43.14 and the Great Circle Logistics at fourth with 15:52.14.

Inday Sara topped the Samal event in 11 hours and 46 seconds, beating UM which clocked 11:05.18, and Great Circle Logistics/Kambras which finished the race in 11:11.39.

Glen Yap took the individual title for Inday Sara while the runner-up was a promising young rider, Marvin Aleonar. Glen Ibanez settled for third place.In the veterans class, Jerry Castillon of 3MJ won over Danny Samaniego and Dominic Carpio while Romeo Mascardo shared the limelight by taking the juniors title over Nathaniel Caresma and Andrew Jurilla.

Joel Parba bagged the masters title at the expense of Carlofer Salonga and Andres Pedregosa.Hilario Saronel was the oldest rider at 66 while the youngest participant was Cliff Collence Prospero.

PhilCycling regional director Salvador Paholio Jr. thanked the supporters of the recent Araw ng Dabaw-Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte Cycling Challenge for the success of the race.

Radio Mindanao Network's dxDC, Davao City Sports Coordinator Christopher "Bong" Go, Unilever Phils., Emperador Brandy, Lipovitan Amino sports, Phoenix Fuels, Coca-Cola, Rain Water, 3rd District Rep.Isidro Ungab, Davao Sports Council Inc., Karancho Inc.and SK Federation president Halila Sudagar backed the race.

In chess, law student Henry John Lopez overwhelmed titled veteran chess players to bag the Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and Vice Mayor Inday Sara – 71st Araw ng Dabaw Open Chess Tournament at the Market Basket in Damosa Gateway.

Lopez, SEA Paralympics gold medalist, tallied 6.5 points to clinch the title in the tournament, one of the 17 sport events that highlighted the Araw ng Dabaw sporting conclave.

Cagayan de Oro City bet and National Master (NM) Levi Mercado beat four other 6.0 scorers via tiebreak to grab the runner-up honors.

NM Jimmy Dano placed third followed by Erwin Aton, Perkins Bayron and Carlo Doctolero in fourth, fifth and sixth places, respectively.

In dama, hometown bet Cerelio Enobio took the spotlight after bagging the Mayor Rodrigo and Duterte and Vice Mayor Inday Sara – 71st Araw ng Dabaw Dama competition played at the Osme¢¥a Park.Enobio beat Daniel Asor from Digos City in the finals to claim the masters crown. Edwin Cabalquinto placed third and Roy Rodas bagged the fourth place. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: BIMP-EAGA Games roadshow slated in Davao soon

2008-03-27T01:18:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/18 March) -- Brunei Darussalam delegates led by its Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports permanent secretary will arrive for the road show and launching of the 6th Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines- East Asian Growth Association (BIMP-EAGA) Games on March 25, 9 a.m. at the Apo View Hotel.

Dr. Zafri Mohamed, the ministry secretary, will spearhead the road show which signals the start of preparations for the four-nation friendship games slated November 28 to 30 in Brunei, said Joseph Encabo, Mindanao representative to the BIMP-EAGA Sports Council.

Encabo added delegates from Sabah, Malaysia will also be coming over to attend the road show.

This year’s edition of the four-nation friendship games carries the theme “Cooperation through sports.” Sports coordinators from various local government units in Mindanao will be invited to attend the road show, according to Encabo who is also the senior executive assistant to Philippine Sports Commission chairman William “Butch” Ramirez.

The list of LGUs to be invited included those from Compostela Valley, Davao Del Sur, Davao Del Norte, Davao Oriental, Davao City, Sarangani Province, General Santos City, South Cotabato and Lanao Del Sur. Encabo said the LGUs will select the events they want to participate in and determine the number of athletes they will be sending.

This year’s edition of the four-nation biennial meet, touted as a venue for strengthening economic cooperation in the region, will feature competitions in athletics, aquatics, sepak takraw, badminton, futsal, tennis and pencak silat.

Traditionally, the choice of events depends on the limited budget available for the athletes' transportation and needs of the host country and its growth area.

The BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games was conceived in 1995 as a venue for sports development, as well as educational and cultural exchange among athletes from the four countries.

It aims to promote opportunities to intensify interaction among peoples and governments within BIMP-EAGA other than trade and enhance unity and cooperation among the youth of participating countries through friendly sports.

Since it also promotes friendship, the BIMP-EAGA sports council which is composed of the heads of the various sports councils of the four-member countries in the growth area preferred to feature mostly non-contact sports.

There are 13 growth areas entered in the meet: Brunei Darrusalam, Gorontalo, East Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, Central Sulawesi, South East Sulawesi and West Papua of Indonesia, Sabah, Sarawak and Federal territory of Labuan of Malaysia and Mindanao and Palawan of the Philippines.

In a previous interview with MindaNews, Susannah Liaw, permanent Secretary of Sabah, Malaysia's Ministry of Youth and Sports and chair of the Sabah Sports Council, said sports tourism around the region could be an offshoot of the games.

She said that through sports, regional cooperation takes a new pace as it gives more reason to come together.

"With the friendship games, we strengthen similarities and celebrate differences," she said. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: Davao del Norte: the new sports capital of the South

2008-03-27T01:15:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/11 March) -- Davao del Norte hosted the recently concluded Mindanao elimination of the prestigious 12th Nestea Beach volleyball which was held at the Tagum City Volleydrome in Tagum City. And, later this month, the first official provincial trip of the 2008 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Cup that will feature the inaugural game of the import-laden conference will take place in the country's biggest banana exporting province at the Multi-Purpose Tourism, Cultural and Sports Center in Panabo City.

Even before the talks on these two big events got underway, the province has been poised to become the new sports capital of the South. It has laid down the groundwork for a reinvigorated thrust towards positioning itself as a major sports destination in the country. Gov. Rodolfo Del Rosario made three major bold steps towards achieving that goal.

First, he appointed his son, former vice governor and true-blue sportsman Anthony del Rosario to head the province’s sports front office. Second, he programmed the reconstruction of the burned old sports complex into a spanking new state-of-the-art facility.

And third, he conducted a province-wide consultative sports summit to redirect the policies and programs on sports. All these are geared towards an immediate goal—to host the 2010 Palarong Pambansa, the country’s national biggest school-based sports competition, according to a statement sent to MindaNews.

Davao City and other provinces in the Davao region have been eyed as possible hosts of the annual national sports conclave. However, the unavailability of a venue made the region lose in past biddings. In contrast, Southwestern Mindanao neighbors Koronadal City, Sarangani Province and General Santos City have all hosted the Palarong Pambansa, the former having hosted the meet in 1995 and in 2006.

The new sports complex project will start soon in Barangay Mankilam across the province’s Government Center, where the old sports complex once stood until it was razed by fire in March 2003. "We expect this project to be completed by 2010," Gov. del Rosario said.

The younger Del Rosario, who owned the Davao Eagles franchise in the defunct MBA, is now laying the cornerstones of the province’s sports program that will lead to the possible hosting of other major sports events like the revived Mindanao Friendship Games and the Davao Regional Athletic Association, or even national competitions conducted by the National Sports Associations.

In November, it was reported that the provincial engineer’s office had prepared the blueprint of the proposed 15-hectare sports complex project originally amounting to P171 million. But based on today’s prices of construction materials, the appraised value of the project could reach up to more than P200 million.

Construction of a total of 49 spans of concrete bleachers, rehabilitation and upgrading of the Olympic size swimming pool, construction of a modern oval track with rubberized track materials and synthetic foot soccer field, proposed parking area that can accommodate more than 300 cars, among other vital components are the priorities of the project.

An executive clubhouse is also included in the plan, while the existing mini-forest shall be retained to provide an ecological balance.

The PBA is taking its act down south with an exciting match-up pitting the Coca-Cola Tigers and the Talk N Text Phone Pals on March 29 at the Panabo Multi-Purpose Tourism, Cultural and Sport Center in Davao del Norte, the PBA website reported.

Organized by the city's local government unit led by Mayor Jose Silvosa Sr., the lone game scheduled at 4:30 p.m. highlights the celebration of the 7th Araw ng Panabo City.The Panabo stop is an official provincial game of the import-laced 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Cup, which opens on March 30 at the Araneta Coliseum with a double-header featuring Welcoat against Air 21 at 4:30 p.m. and Red Bull facing Barangay Ginebra at 6:50 p.m. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

15th Iligan National Writers Workshop now open for applications

2008-03-27T01:14:00.000-07:00

The Iligan National Writers Workshop is accepting manuscripts on its 15th year this year.Fifteen (15) slots, five each from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao are available for writing fellowships to the INWW.

Applicants are required to submit five poems, or, one short story, or, a one-act play in Filipino, English or in Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Kinaray-a, Waray (with translations) and Chabacano along with the applicant’s biodata, two 2X2 photos and a certification that his/her work is original.

For short stories or plays, please submit a hard copy and a 3.5 diskette with the manuscripts encoded in MS Word 7.0. Unpublished works are preferred. Writing fellows will be given free board and lodging, honoraria and a travel allowance.

Applications must be postmarked on or before April 15, 2008. No applications or manuscripts will be accepted if sent by fax or e-mail. Applicants are also advised to keep copies of their manuscripts since these will not be returned.Send all applications to the 15th INWW Director, Christine Godinez-Ortega c/o OVCRE, MSU-IIT, Iligan City . For more information call Pat Cruz tels. (063) 3516131; or e-mail:
' );
//-->\n
ovcre-mepc@sulat.msuiit.edu.ph
' );
//-->

This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
' );
//-->

/
' );
//-->\n
cherlyadlawan@yahoo.com
' );
//-->

This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
' );
//-->

PGMA brings ‘Serbisyo Muna Caravan’ to Surigao Del Norte tomorrow

2008-03-27T01:10:00.000-07:00

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will arrive in Malomino, Surigao Del Norte on Friday (March 28) to spearhead the delivery of her administration’s enhanced social services to this province as part of her commitment to uplift the welfare of the Filipino people.

The Serbisyo Muna Caravan is the Arroyo administration’s service and goods-laden assistance program that provides livelihood, health and financial support to the poorest families in the country.

The President, who is expected to arrive at 10 a.m. at the Malimono Elementary School, will be welcomed by Surigao del Norte Gov. Robert Ace Barbers and Malimono Mayor Teodoro Sinaca Jr., among others.

STATEMENT: Union of Peoples' Lawywers in Mindanao

2008-03-27T01:04:00.000-07:00

Mindanao lawyers, law students, paralegals: Oust Gloria Now!Uphold the Rule of Law and the People's Sovereign Will!The lawyers, law students and paralegals from the Union of Peoples' Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM) call on Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to step down from Malacañang, for having lost the legal, Constitutional and moral ascendancy to rule the country with the latest ZTE broadband scam and the looming sell out of our national territory in the Spratly Islands.

The Senate probe on the ZTE deal has not only revealed the truth of corruption involving the First Family, but also the underhanded means of the Arroyo government to suppress the truth. There was the abduction of ZTE witness Rodolfo 'Jun' Lozada to prevent him from testifying in the Senate, and the invoking of Executive Order 464 to prevent former Neda chair Romulo Neri from appearing in the Senate. Both instances showed the government's attempt to violate the Senate power to conduct investigation and violate Lozada's life and liberty.

That Arroyo later admitted to having known about the anomaly in the ZTE deal but still signed the contract makes her culpable of graft – an impeachable offense.This ZTE deal is only one of the many cases of corruption involving Arroyo and the First Family.

It is disgusting how Arroyo has suppressed the truth, the same way she has done in the Hello Garci election fraud in 2004; the many anomalous projects such as the P728-million fertilizer scam, the P200 million Diosdado Macapagal Highway, and the P503-million North Rail project; and the current reported sell-out of the Spratly Islands to China in exchange of the ZTE deal, North Rail and South Rail Projects.

Arroyo has run this government like a Mafioso bent on corruption and repression, without regard to the rule of law and the people's sovereign will. She has run this government like a dictator, imposing Draconian measures to silence critics and giving tacit approval to the culture of impunity that is responsible for more than 900 cases of political killings and disappearances of activists, media and professionals, including lawyers, judges, and paralegals.

But it is the sovereign will of the people that had put her in the presidency through people power in 2001.

It is this same sovereign will that now decides to remove her from power.Impeachment under a rubber-stamp House of Representatives is not an option, as evidenced with the killing of impeachment complaints in the past three years.

A probe by a partial Ombudsman would just cover up the Arroyos. We see the Ombudsman probe as a smokescreen to the ongoing Senate investigation.

Only the ouster of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo remains the choice of the people to remove the illegitimate, corrupt and evil occupant in Malacañang. Only the ouster of Arroyo would restore the rule of law and the supremacy of the people's sovereign will.

SPORTS: Montana Pawnshop captures Araw ng Dabaw cagefest title

2008-03-27T00:57:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/17 March) - Former pro Henry Fernandez lived up to his billing in the game that mattered most.

Fernandez hit a three-pointer as time expired to lift Montaña Pawnshop to victory over Duterte Agilas-Goldstar Hardware, 80-79 in their winner-take-all championship match in the 71st Araw ng Dabaw-Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Inday Sara commercial basketball league Sunday night at the jam-packed Davao City Recreation Center.

Following a timeout and with only two seconds left, Montaña forward Lendy Dawal made an inbound pass to the sweet-shooting Fernandez who threw up a semi-fade away triple at the right corner that swished the net before the final buzzer sounded.

Fans proceeded to storm the court to celebrate Montaña’s victory that came as a big surprise as the Pawnbrokers were trailing all throughout the game.Agilas forward Apple Coronado split his free throws after his teammate John Gonzaga missed two bonus shots in their previous possession that boosted their advantage to 2, 79 – 77 with 2 seconds remaining.

Fernandez, who was named Most Valuable Player, scored 25 points, 10 of which came in the payoff period including the buzzer-beating triple that upset the Agilas who squandered their chance to cop their first title in several years.Michael Maniego drilled an open layup that tied the count at 74 all.

He chipped in 16 points for the Arman Quibud-owned Montaña Pawnshop which trailed 59 – 65 going to the final period.Gonzaga had 24 points for the Agilas who was up 78 – 77 before the high-flying guard missed his pivotal bonus throws via penalty with 30 seconds left.

Arian Daja also canned 24 markers for the Agilas who was enjoying a 4-point lead, 78-74, after Gonzaga made an open layup with only 1:42 remaining.

The Agilas opened the game with a bang behind the heroics of Gonzaga, Coronado and Daja, taking a 24 – 17 lead after ten minutes of play.But Montaña went into a scoring rampage in the second quarter behind Maniego and Fernandez, a former Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants player, to tie the count at 41 all at the half.

The Roi Josol-mentored Agilas then came out strong in the third period, gaining a 12-point advantage, 60 – 48, the biggest lead of the ballgame.

M. Lhuiller Kwarta Padala of Cebu City clobbered Zamboanga City Latinos to cop the third place honor.Councilor Edgar Ibuyan awarded cash prizes to the winners in the tournament which was the centerpiece sport event in this city’s charter day celebration. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: PSC bankrolls RRD-Araw ng Dabaw sportsfest

2008-03-27T00:51:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/17 March) -- The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has bankrolled five sport disciplines in the 2008 Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte-Araw ng Dabaw Sports Festival calendar of sport events.

The PSC, chaired by Dabawenyo William "Butch" Ramirez, is sponsoring dancesport, chess, arnis, taekwondo and swimming competitions."We will be sponsoring events that are focus sports in Davao City," said Ramirez, a former sports consultant of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, in an earlier interview.

The City Government of Davao through the Sports Development Division-City Mayor's Office has supported 17 events in line with the city's charter day celebration.Football for the young and veteran players opened the festival on March 8 to 9 at the Tionko field.

Bodybuilding started on March 9 at the Victoria Plaza.The other events include commercial basketball, boxing, table tennis, sepak takraw, billiards, lawn tennis, volleyball, cycling, among others.

Four teams are vying for the title in the ongoing commercial basketball league which offers cash prizes and trophies.

They are M. Lhuiller Kwarta Padala of Cebu City, Zamboanga City Latinos, Montana Pawnshop and Duterte Agilas Goldstar Hardware.In table tennis, Some 140 paddlers across Mindanao are vying for top honors in the tournament which opened on March 16 at the SIR Elementary School.

"There will be players from Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Panabo, Cotabato, Davao Oriental and Iligan, " said Frendee Nunez of Metro Davao Table Tennis Association (MEDATTA). (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

Commercial Basketball:

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/11 March) - Zamboanga City has confirmed its participation in the 2008 Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte-Araw ng Dabaw Basketball Tournament on March 12 to 17 at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Zamboanga City, bannered by local talents, is the fourth squad to confirm its entry. A team from the Visayas is also set to join the competition.M.Lhuillier Kwarta Padala of Cebu City, Montaña Pawnshop Davao and Philippine Air Force have been invited to join the six-day event which is one of the sporting highlights of the 71st celebration of the Araw ng Dabaw.

Entrance is free.Another Davao squad, possibly a combination of players from the Duterte Agilas and Goldstar Hardware, will join the tournament presented by Mayor Duterte.

The Zamboanga squad which is expected to arrive Tuesday or Wednesday morning will parade Cris Concepcion, Darwin Cordero, Emrey Ramirez, Jomie Alvarez, Junie Navarro, David Sebastian, Tantan Parreño, Eter Chua, Jeffrey France and Ronald Saracho.

Two other big men will be named soon by team manager Jun Navarro.Meanwhile, the organizers have advised would-be spectators to follow the security measures to be implemented by local authorities.

Montaña Pawnshop is eager to do battle in the tournament organized by the BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas XI and supported by the Sports Development Division-City Mayor's Office.Nick Serafica will do the coaching chores for the Pawnbrokers.

He will be assisted by former head coach Dodong Cagampang and Peter Epe.Serafica will put his hands full on veteran erstwhile PBA standout Henry Fernandez, Mike Manigo, Harold Sta.Cruz and Marvin Poloyapoy, former Adamson falcon in the UAAP.

Biboy Clavel, Charlie Braga, Ryan Abanes, Dado Ayson, Ronald Lamocha, Junel Jawod, Lendi Dawal, Jojo Endrinal and Arden Guiyab are expected to provide support. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: 'Araw ng Dabaw' sporting highlights unfolds this weekend

2008-03-27T00:47:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY (Mindanews/5 March) -- Dabawenyos can now look forward to an exciting and fun-filled sports activities as the 71st Araw ng Dabaw sporting highlights take center stage this weekend.Football and cycling will signal the start of the sporting spectacle as the Araw ng Dabaw celebration kicks off this weekend in separate venues.

Dubbed as Araw ng Dabaw football festival, the event will unfold March 8-9 at Tionko Football Field.

The two-day event will feature competitions in elementary girls, high school girls, boys 10 and under, boys 12 and under, boys under 14, men's 35 and above and ladies open.

The boys U-14 will serve as a tryout for the Philippine team that will compete in the AFC Festival of Football in Malaysia this May, according to a press statement from the Davao Football Assocation (DFA) emailed to MindaNews.

The selected players will compose the Mindanao team and later on compete with their counterparts in Luzon and Visayas to determine the team's final line up. Mindanao Center of Football Excellence coordinator Consur Manreza will scout the players.

The Mindanao team will be coached by David Dwight Penano.In cycling, after successfully conquering the Island Garden City of Samal cycling challenge, the Inday Sara Team is gunning for honors in the 71st Araw ng Dabaw Cycling Challenge on March 9.

The race starts at the Rizal Park at 7 a.m. PhilCyling XI Director Salvador Paholio Jr. said the next race on Sunday will be another exciting competition as other teams are planning to exact vengeance after losing to the riders of Inday Sara.

Marcial Catanque will lead the squad of the Davao City Vice Mayor against teams from University of Mindanao, Great Circle Logistics/Kambras, Davao Oriental, among others. Paholio said this Sunday's race, sponsored by City Government of Davao through City Sports Coordinator Christopher "Bong" Go, offers prizes to the winners.

Inday Sara topped the Samal event in 11 hours and 46 seconds, beating UM which clocked 11:05.18, Great Circle Logistics/Kambras which finished the race in 11:11.39. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

2008-02-29T20:48:00.000-08:00

From Left to Right: Bing Gonzales of Mindanao Daily Mirror, Dennis Lazo of Bombo Radyo, Fiscal Emelio "Nonot" Dayanghirang III, Coach Huebert Paz, BAP-SBP Executive Director Patrick Gregorio, BAP-SBP Davao region chief Regino "Boy" Cua, Marianne Saberon-Abalayan of Sunstar Davao, Pastor Gary Visitacion of Philippine Challenge Ministry, Rico Jhone Biliran of MindaNews and Charles Maxey of Sunstar Davao.

SPORTS: PSC chief calls for unity in Davao sports

2008-02-29T20:39:00.000-08:00

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez has called on sports stakeholders inthis city to "unite and work with unity" in order to attain sustainable sports development program.

"This is for the better of sports in Davao City. We need to move andlook forward," Ramirez told sports journalists here following theawarding rites of the Edsa Unity Basketball Tournament Saturday night.

Ramirez, a former city sports coordinator, said he personally wants tohave a sustainable sports development program in Davao City that wouldplan and implement an integrated program of physical fitness andsports development for the city as well as sustain sports trainingactivities.

Davao City Sports Council, Inc. (DCSCI), which is composed of regionalchapters of the National Sports Association (NSA), the citygovernment, the private sector and other sports stakeholders, shouldwork hand in hand for Davao City's sports development program, hesaid.

"It's much better for us to work together to achieve our goal ofbetter sports program," said the former Ateneo de Davao Universityprofessor and chief mentor of the Blue Knights.

The national sports agency chief pointed out that the city governmentshould be the "hub of the wheel" of all the sports activities in thecity.

"By simply staging tournaments here and there is not a program. Weneed programs here, a sports development program, " he lamented.

Ramirez, the first Dabawenyo chief of the PSC, also reiterated theimportance of the creation of a sports commission that, according tohim, would give direction to the sports program of Davao City.

The formal creation of the Davao City Sports Commission (DCSC) throughan ordinance, however, had endured setback.

The envisioned DCSC, according to the proposed ordinance, will beacting as an umbrella body for all sports associations, organizationsand groups in the city, both from the public and private sectors.

The powers of the commission include to plan and implement anintegrated program of physical fitness and sports development for thecity as well as sustain sports training activities, particularly foroutstanding athletes and help the city government to identify, planand manage sports facilities required for the training of athletes andconduct of sports tournaments.

"It is the mandate of our office to help draft sports developmentprograms for the local government units and to have grassroots sportsprogram nationwide," said Ramirez.

He also said the opening of the PSC Mindanao satellite office herecould help achieve the common goal for Davao sports.

The PSC board has decided with board resolution to put up a Mindanaosatellite office to help augment the talent identification andgrassroots development program of the national sports agency.

It will also coordinate with various local government units theprograms of the PSC in Mindanao, which has 27 provinces and 33 citiesas well as the promotion of Philippine Sports Institute. (Rico Biliran/ MindaNews)

SPORTS: Palaro-bound DAVRAA delegation faces budgetary constraints

2008-02-29T20:20:00.000-08:00

The Davao Region delegation bound forPalarong Pambansa in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan is facing"budgetary constraints, " reports said.

But Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) officials are nowtaking measures and finding solutions to the financial woes, accordingto Dr. Fidel Japos, head of the Department of Education's (DepEd) TaskForce on School Sports.

"We are now taking measures for that (problem)," said Japos. "One ofthat is to trim down the number of the technical officials in thedelegation."

At the moment, Japos said, the DAVRAA delegation is composed of 484delegates, 85 of which are "technical officials" taking care of threecommittees -- kitchen, transportation and communication.

"We cannot cut the number of athletes and coaches," he said, noting that some of the technical officials may have to go.

Apart from the 85 technical officials, there are 339 athletes and 53coaches from the Davao Region delegation attending the nationalmulti-sport events for elementary and secondary students on April21-26.

He said they are also negotiating with airline companies for a cheapercharter flight to Palawan since "we have found out that traveling byboat is much more expensive."

Japos estimated that the DAVRAA participation would cost P8 to P10million, including transportation, food, supplies, uniforms andallowances.

Explaining where the funding would come from, Japos said the localgovernment division offices will provide P150,000 each and the centraloffice will give P4 million.

"The DepEd regional office will also give its counterpart, " he said.DepEd-XI has nine division offices, including the cities of Davao,Digos, Tagum, Panabo and Island Garden City of Samal and the provincesof Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and CompostelaValley.

During his courtesy visit to DepEd-XI regional director SusannaTeressa Estigoy, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William"Butch" Ramirez has reportedly vowed "to provide help."

Ramirez said he will also hand out equipments that would be used for the training of the Davao Region athletes beginning on March 23 toApril 15 in the City of Mati in Davao Oriental.

"We will also send lecturers there to conduct leadership training andcoaches' education training," said Ramirez. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Reconstruction of Davao’s oldest bridge completed by early August

2008-02-29T20:11:00.000-08:00

MindaNews photo by: BJ Patiñ0

The reconstruction of the Gov. Generoso Bridge, the oldest span in this city, will be completed by early August this year, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane assured President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during her visit here Wednesday.

Formerly known as the Bankerohan Bridge, the 58-year-old bridge along the Davao-Cotobato Road was badly damaged during the typhoon that battered Davao last year.

The President arrived here Wednesday to look into the status of ongoing government infrastructure projects in Region XI, including the Gov. Generoso Bridge, which is situated in the heart of the city’s bustling commercial district.

Ebdane, who accompanied the President in her inspection of public works projects here, said the DPWH will see to it that the contractor of the span will meet the August construction deadline.

The President also congratulated Ebdane for the P10 million the government saved from the implementation of the project.

The DPWH chief said that the original cost estimate of the 170.88-linear bridge project was P216 million but his department awarded the contract to the bidder who offered the lowest bid of P206 million, thus the P10 million savings.

The President, in a light-blue raincoat jacket, braved the slight shower to view the ongoing construction of the bridge. Ebdane informed her that Pier I of the bridge was already completed, and that the contractor has started the construction of Pier II.

The President expressed elation over the progress of the project which, when completed, will cut the travel time between the neighboring provinces of Davao and Cotabato.

Moreover, the bridge will improve traffic conditions on the Maa Road intersection along MacArthur Highway in Matina, all the way to Quirino Avenue on the other side of the Davao River, the DPWH said.The old Bankerohan span, which had a maximum load capacity of 45 tons, was built over five years from 1946 to 1950.

Notice to the public: From the 1987 Philippine Constitution

2008-02-29T20:08:00.000-08:00

Article III - Bill of Rights SEC. 18.

(1) No person shall be detained solely by reason of his political beliefs and aspirations.

(2) No involuntary servitude in any from shall exist except as punishment for a crime whereof the party shall be duly convicted.

Tell the Truth, Now, says AdDU community

2008-02-29T20:04:00.000-08:00

Our country today is in a very deep political and moral crisis. We see its impact on the face of Jun Lozada, the reluctant star witness. He fears for his life and for his family’s safety, as he struggles to speak out what he knows about the NBN-ZTE deal.

This $329-million controversial deal apparently has a built-in $130 million kickback. This is very disturbing! Whoever has the key to the solution to this problem, speak! We want to know the truth! Whistleblower Lozada, of course, is not a saint. He himself confesses his previous wrongdoing. But his bold witnessing overcomes the tricks some authorities employ to avoid saying what they know and to prevent those who know from speaking out.

The greatest casualty here is the truth. So tell us the truth, now!For if all this is true, then it will confirm the grand scale corruption that the Philippine bishops have relentlessly been preaching against.

According to the Editorial of the official publication of the Philippine Bishops, “Graft and corruption in the government are so endemic and extensive that socio-political integrity in governance has seemingly become a moral impossibility to achieve during the remaining three-year tenure of the present national leadership” (CBCP Monitor June 25-Jul8 2007, p. A4).

This is a heavy statement. We would be hypocrite, however, if we blame only the government. At the moment, no social institution in Philippine society seems immune to corruption. So, like Lozada, the media must also say, “Mea culpa” for some distorted reporting.

Like Lozada, the Church must also admit its lack of transparency in its institutions, and should also say “Mea culpa”. Like Lozada, the private sector must stop bribery and not yield to extortion, and say, “Mea culpa”.

This collective admission of guilt is part of our communal cleansing. And this Lenten Season should be a good time to confess the sad truth of our participation in corruption!The Blessing of IntegrityThank God, there is another truth to be told.

The probinsyanong Intsik is not alone. There are many more whistleblowers who, in less sensational ways, live up to the demands of living a life of integrity. We witness the heroic citizenship of ordinary employees who continue, despite low salaries, to pour their energies into their public service. We know of judges who retire with peace of mind because they have held fast to their principles.

All this is also true! We bless the dynamic leaders who literally walk the streets in delivering basic services to their people. We affirm the achievements of conscientious individuals in the corporate world and the religious groups who combine professional competence with social conscience.

All this is must also be hailed for they are true! We celebrate, with both sacred rage and serene faith, the death of our contemporary martyrs who have sacrificed life, job, and family for the sake of justice.

They lived in the joy and consolation of the truth! Communal Action for TruthNow, in response to the call of Philippine bishops and various vigilant groups, the Ateneo de Davao University students, faculty, administration, staff, and other concerned citizens here in Davao City join together in “communal action,” to pray hard and work even harder for enlightenment, cleansing, and the courage to live by the “truth that sets us free.” (John 8:32).

We commit ourselves to continuous struggle---within our own selves, our families and institutions---to abhor lies and to uphold truth. At the same time, we challenge those who hold positions of public trust---please check and recheck your values.

We call on their relatives to interrogate the acts of their fathers or mothers or sons or daughters in positions of power. Do not be the cause of their downfall.We call on the students and alumni---you are the best contribution of schools to society.

Remember the values that your school stands for. Do not bring shame to your Alma Mater. We call on the religious communities and members of civil society. Support the authentic whistleblowers. Give them shelter. Help them discern.

Take care of their families. More importantly, don’t leave individual whistleblowers to carry the burden of shaking the conscience of society. Let’s transform our groups into prophetic communities and communal whistleblowers.

We call everyone to tell your stories of pain and anger, your dreams and energies. In homes and classrooms, talk about Filipinos who tell the truth. Tell children not to cheat their way to success. Teach them hard and honest work.

Tell them to respect the real value of words---and numbers. Remind them of the dignity of our people. We believe that the present crisis is not in our genes. Even our seemingly immovable social structure and incorrigible culture of corruption cannot be our eternal destiny.

If we dare to change, things will change. So let us change!What we now see as an apparent dead-end may yet turn out to be the threshold of a new creation. In the “darkness that covered the abyss” in the beginning of creation, God’s “mighty wind swept over the waters. God said, ‘Let there be light. And there was light’” (Genesis 1:2-3).

In the seemingly desperate situation our country is in today, let the mighty wind of God’s spirit move us. Let there be movement! And there shall be change!But first, give us no less than the truth, and the faith to face it---now!

(This is the statement of the Ateneo de Davao University community, read out last Feb 22, during our mass officiated by Fr. Antonio Samson, SJ, University President, and also read during the prayer rally held at the gate of ADDU after mass.The prayer rally was convened by Ehem! and ADDU, and joining us were various groups, including Pakisama, Bayan, Mindanao Commission on Women, Mincode, and other schools in the city)

Nograles urges nation to join CBCP in fight against corruption

2008-02-29T19:43:00.000-08:00

House Speaker Prospero Nograles today urged the Filipino nation to join hands with the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in its fight to weed out the culture of graft and corruption that has permeated in Philippine society.

The House Speaker said he welcomes the CBCP statement and stressed that this should motivate our people into joining the Church in its call for communal action to revive the Christian values that would help restore the dignity of each and every Filipino individual.

Nograles also said that this is now the time for the whole nation to unite and participate in the call of the Church to uproot graft and corruption from our political system pointing out that the House of Representatives under his leadership has jumpstarted the call for reforms with the formation of an oversight committee that has been tasked to draft the reform package in the Lower House that would yield greater accountability, transparency and the prudent utilization of government funds particularly the so-called development funds.

Nograles also urged the Filipino people to join the government in its fight to either eliminate or reduce the level of corruption in the public sector by remaining vigilant and conscious of their roles as citizens by participating more actively in the political process.

Citizenship bears some responsibility and primary among the duties of every Filipino is to help the government establish a society that would promote social justice, equal distribution of the country's wealth and resources, greater accountability and, integrity in public service, said Nograles.

The CBCP statement, he said, should provide both the Arroyo Administration and the Filipino people with the opportunity to come together and examine where our country now stands and where we want out nation to go from here.

We are all in the same boat and we cannot afford to see the country sink deeper in the abyss of poverty and political instability.

As such, we must all come together to ensure that our country remain afloat so that our vision of an economically stable Philippines may be fulfilled, Nograles explained.

Statement: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines

2008-02-29T19:40:00.000-08:00

Beloved People of God:

Greetings in the peace of the Lord!

Today in the midst of restlessness and confusion, we come to you as pastors, for that is our precise role. We do not come as politicians whose vocation it is to order society towards the common good. Our message contributes to the flourishing of a democracy which must not be built only on political formulae.

We face today a crisis of truth and the pervading cancer of corruption. We must seek the truth and we must restore integrity.

These are moral values needing spiritual and moral insights. Therefore, we address this pastoral statement to everyone particularly you our beloved people and in a special way to our political rulers and officials.

We are convinced that the search for truth in the midst of charges and allegations must be determined and relentless, and that the way to truth and integrity must be untrammeled, especially at the present time when questions about the moral ascendancy of the present government are being raised.

For this reason, we strongly:
1. Condemn the continuing culture of corruption from the top to the bottom of our social and political ladder;

2. Urge the President and all the branches of government to take the lead in combating corruption wherever it is found;

3. Recommend the abolition of EO 464 so that those who might have knowledge of any corruption in branches of government, may be free to testify before the appropriate investigating bodies;

4. Ask the President to allow her subordinates to reveal any corrupt acts, particularly about the ZTE-NBN deal, without being obstructed in their testimony no matter who is involved;

5. Appeal to our senators and the ombudsman to use their distinct and different powers of inquiry into alleged corruption cases not for their own interests but for the common good;

6. Call on media to be a positive resource of seeking the truth and combating corruption by objective reporting without bias and partiality, selective and tendentious reporting of facts;

For the long term we reiterate our call for “circles of discernment” at the grassroots level, in our parishes, Basic Ecclesial Communities, recognized lay organizations and movements, religious institutions, schools, seminaries and universities.

It is through internal conversion into the maturity of Christ through communal and prayerful discernment and action that the roots of corruption are discovered and destroyed.

We believe that such communal action will perpetuate at the grassroots level the spirit of People Power so brilliantly demonstrated to the world at EDSA I.

It is People Power with a difference. From the grassroots will come out a culture of truth and integrity we so deeply seek and build. We instruct our CBCP Commissions to take active role including networking for this purpose.

May the Lord bless us in this sacred undertaking to build a new kind of Philippines and may our Blessed Mother be our companion and guide in this journey to truth and integrity.

For and on behalf of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines:

Suara Bangsamoro chide PNP for using “terrorist” hysteria against nationwide interfaith rally vs. GMA

2008-02-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

The Suara Bangsamoro cannot anymore stomach the use of the Philippine National Police of the “terrorist” hysteria in a bid to make President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo look like a target of terrorist killing in the midst of a mammoth interfaith rally calling for her resignation.

“We condemn the PNP for using another Muslim as a fall guy to divert the public attention from the massive interfaith rally in Makati calling for President Arroyo’s resignation and ouster by staging a plot that another so-called Jeemayah Islamiya terrorist is out to kill the President,” said Amirah Ali Lidasan, national president of Mindanao-based group Suara.

Bangsamoro.Lidasan is afraid that another innocent Moro brother or sister will again be used as a pawn to make it look like there is a threat to the life of the President.

“The Moro people join the rest of the Filipino people in the nationwide interfaith rally because they cannot stomach anymore the list of human rights violations committed by the police and military because of the anti-Moro policies released during President Arroyo’s term,” said Lidasan.

Lidasan also lambast the PNP, saying that the people have become numb to their constant use of the “terrorist” hysteria, knowing full well that Police Director General Avelino Razon has a lot more to answer for the issues of abduction his men has done against NBN-ZTE star witness Jun Lozada.

Lidasan clarifies that the Moro people’s call for Arroyo’s ouster and resignation is part of the legitimate call of the Filipino people and should not be linked to any terrorist plot concocted by the PNP.

Lidasan said her group has joined various sectors in the interfaith rallies held in key cities in Mindanao and in Manila.(Press release by: Suara Bangsamoro)

RMC wins EDSA cagefest title

2008-02-29T19:29:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/25 Feb) -- The Rizal Memorial College Bulldogs defeated Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights, 102-96, to win the EDSA Basketball Tournament title Saturday night at the Davao City Recreation Center.

The Bulldogs leaned on their run-and-gun type of play to pull off the improbable title-clinching victory over the Blue Knights.

Hermann Dejito came out unstoppable, canning 32 big points for the Bulldogs who took a 73-68 lead going to the final period.

But it was Mohaledin Distancia who provided RMC's much needed lift, converting four straight points down the stretch to take a 92-84 advantage.

The high-flying Distancia split his free throw but superbly hauled the rebound for a put back plus a foul. He sank the bonus throw.

Kinny Rosil Isik and Ramfe Rodriguez added 18 and 11 points for RMC which took home the P10,000 cash prize personally awarded by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez.

The Blue Knights threatened to take the lead as Richard Madelo, Jarius Guingguing and Paulo Sta. Ana conspired for a 6-0 run that cut the deficit to 4, 94-90.

But Dejito was quick to answer with a short jumper to give RMC some breathing room, 96-90, with less than a minute remaining.

The next play saw Madelo who topscored for Ateneo with 32 points missing on his three-point attempt. With the time not on their side, the Blue Knights were forced to foul to stop the time but the Bulldogs showed nerves of steel as they calmly sank their free throws that eventually sealed the victory.

RMC took a 25-23 lead after 10 minutes of play and both teams managed to trade baskets in the second period to tie the count at 43 at the half.

Agro Industrial Foundation Sailors clinched the third place honor in the two-day tournament sponsored by PSC and backed by City Mayor's Office-Sports Development Division and sanctioned by Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas (BAP-SBP) regional director Regino " Boy" Cua. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

SPORTS: Powerhouse, UM, Holy Cross share DC-PRISAA athletics plum

2008-02-29T19:23:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/25 Feb) -- Holy Cross of Davao College and University of Mindanao shared top honors following two days of backbreaking track battle at the close of this year's Davao City Private School Athletic Association (DC-PRISAA) athletics competition Sunday at the University of Mindanao track oval.

Holy Cross hauled 24 gold, 15 silver and 10 bronze medals to clinch the men's division title while UM reaped 32 of the 39 gold medals at stake along with five silvers and four bronzes to capture the women's crown.

Led by middle distance runner Philip Ocon who won six gold medals, Holy Cross topped the men's medal board with huge victories in medal-rich relay events over UM which placed second with 15-22-2 gold-silver-bronze performance.

Ocon, who won numerous gold medals in the previous national PRISAA competitions, pocketed the gold in his favorite 800 meters and 1,500 meters and led the Holy Cross relay team to golden performances in 4x200m, 4x400m, 4x800m and classical relay.

The BIMP-EAGA gold medallist crossed the finish line 2:13.56 to bag the gold in the coveted 800 meters.

His teammate Flor Guimagan settled for silver with 2:21.00 while University of Mindanao's Belierba Satumcacal took the bronze after clocking 2:30.01.

Long distance runner Joselito Dugos contributed two gold medals to the Toto Lacanaria-mentored Holy Cross gold medal production by topping the 5-kilometer and 10,000-meter run.

In the women's side, UM stamped its class, ruling all contests apart from throwing event that was dominated by Holy Cross which clinched the second spot with 7-21-1 gold-silver-bronze showing.

Jose Maria College ended its campaign at third place with three silvers and six bronze medals. Genebeth Cantila, a middle distance runner, took six gold medals and a silver across her name to lead UM's medal production.

Cantila, who settled with silver in the long jump, won the gold in the 800 meters and 1,500 meters and led the UM relay team to win the gold in 4x100, 4x200, 4x400 and 4x800 relay events.

Vivian Avergonzado chipped in three gold medals for UM which dominated all the events except throwing. Avergonzado, a national medallist, topped the 5-kilometer, 10-kilometer run and 3,000 meters.

Holy Cross ace thrower Johanna Mae Pacaldo, a Palarong Pambansa medallist, won the gold in shot put and discuss throw.

In men's basketball, University of Mindanao Wildcats won their four consecutive titles by beating Agro Industrial Foundation College, 89-79 Sunday at the UM Matina Gym.

Arnold Adormeo, Ryan Calimpong and Aldrin Blanco combined for 44 points to lead the charge for UM. Brokenshire College bested Rizal Memorial College (RMC), 104-97, to cop the third place plum. In the distaff side, UM clobbered RMC, 103-55, to capture the title. Brokenshire College placed third by beating San Pedro College, 61-58. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Mindanao's 'Sports for Peace' is back

2008-02-18T23:21:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/7 Feb) -- The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) announced today the revival of the sports for peace program dubbed Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG) taking place simultaneous with the week-long celebration of the Mindanao Week of Peace.

The MFG, which has been dormant for half a decade, will be revived starting this year, commencing on Nov. 29 up to Dec. 5, according to Joseph Encabo, chief of staff of PSC Chairman William Ramirez.

Encabo said the "rebirth" of MFG will be held in Lanao del Norte following the provincial government’s acceptance to host anew the MFG. Lanao del Norte hosted the inauguration of the MFG in 2001.

"Gov. Khalid Dimaporo sent us a letter, confirming that the provincial government accepted the hosting of the revival of the MFG," Encabo told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum.

The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region in 2001, 2002 and 2003 was scrapped in the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage.

The multi-sports competition among the island’s local government units (LGU) was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) erupted in the municipality of Kauswagan in the same province.

The war eventually spread in some other parts of the island with MILF presence.The games were then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year.

Kicking off the preparation, Encabo said sports coordinators from various LGUs across the island, with the collaboration of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, will meet next month to discuss the staging of the MFG.

Encabo said that recently, PSC obtained a financial help of P10 million from "one company in Manila," and half of which will be used for the MFG.

The other half was allocated for the grassroots sports program. Encabo did not name the company. "That's why Chairman Ramirez is very optimistic to revive the MFG because of the agreement (financial assistance) that will be signed last week of February, " he added.

Encabo estimates that P5 to 7 million is needed for the staging of the MFG.

Last December, Ramirez mentioned the revival of the MFG as part of the measures that would be taken to enhance the national sports agency's grassroots sports program.

He had said the PSC has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs that includes the revival of Mindanao’s "Sports for Peace" program.

The national sports agency’s budget got an increase for 2008 after Ramirez, the former Ateneo de Davao professor, defended it in both chambers of Congress. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

PGMA cites importance of fight vs corruption in quest for peace and progress

2008-02-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

Amid unfounded allegations of corruption hurled against certain officials of the Arroyo administration linked with the long-cancelled National Broadband Network (NBN) project, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo underscored today the need to rid the bureaucracy of corruption to attain peace and economic prosperity.

In her opening statement at the Procurement Transparency Group-National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-Cabinet Group meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room in Malacañang this morning, the President stressed that the government has put anti-corruption campaign at the fore of its agenda.

''It is empirical that we fight corruption so we can attain further economic growth, increase investments that would create more new jobs for the people,'' the President said in Filipino.

Thus, she added, the government allotted last year some P3 billion in its war against corruption, ''the largest amount spent for an anti-corruption campaign.

'The President said among the measures taken by the government to stamp out corruption included lifestyle check on people in government.''

Dozens of officials have either been discharged from service or are facing corruption charges in courts as a result of the lifestyle check waged by the present administration,'' she stressed.

The President also said she has created the Procurement Transparency Group (PTG) chaired by Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. to ''monitor and evaluate contracting of government projects.''

''The PTG, which we are meeting now, has been tasked to partner with business, academe, religious and civil society groups to be government's watchdogs,'' she said.

''To rid the system of corruption, the participation of the civil society through the PTG is important,'' the President stressed.

She likewise cited the important roles the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman play in the government's quest to rid the system of corruption and let truth and justice prevail.

Thus, the President said, the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman was doubled to allow it to hire more investigators and prosecutors.

'The number of cases won by the Sandiganbayan increased by 5 percent due to more prosecutors and investigators who are focused on graft and corruption cases,'' she said.

The President expressed hope that the Ombudsman would be fair in its investigation, “no leanings, no politics and no drama involved but fair and just decision...just the truth in accordance with due process, based on solid evidence, and respects the rights of the accused and the accuser.''

''This is the democratic process in resolving peacefully and truthfully issues and accusations,'' the President said.“If we could resolve corruption charges in the democratic process, then our country would be respected as a democracy. Let us respect the rule of law, the key to peace and prosperity,'' the President said. (http://www.gov.ph/news/)

Metro Manila is not the Philippines, says Mindanawon lawmaker

2008-02-18T23:08:00.000-08:00

A Mindanao congressman today warned that they will secede from the Philippines and form an independent state if "the people of Metro Manila will continue dictating their will on the Filipino people."

Davao del Sur Rep. Marc Douglas Cagas said that many Mindanaoans are enraged by the "reckless misrepresentation of the people of Metro Manila" on the real sentiment of all Filipinos."

Many people in Mindanao are already anguishing on what's happening here in Metro Manila. We are already tired of being dictated upon by the people of Metro Manila. Metro Manila is not the entire Philippines," Cagas said.

Cagas warned that fresh moves to bring down the Arroyo administration and the constant political wrangling that is taking place in Metro Manila might force the people of Mindanao to assert their right to have an independent state.

"How can we achieve peace in this country when the people of Metro Manila is always in the warpath against the government? All these demonstrations, all these calls for President Arroyo to resign, all these anti-Arroyo investigations in the Senate are a distraction in our effort to bring progress in the countryside, particularly in Mindanao," Cagas said.

"We deplore all those Metro Manila-based personalities fomenting civil unrest under the guise of searching for the truth. This unholy alliance, which is claiming to speak for our people and our nation, does not have any inkling on or does not care to know what the people outside of Metro Manila really want and deserve to get from the government," Cagas said.

Cagas also deplored the so-called "arrogance of the noisy few" as he pointed out that those who have been calling for President Arroyo to resign "do not speak for the people Mindanao."

"All is quiet in most parts of the country because all that we want is to have more bridges, more school buildings, more paved roads, more scholarships, more post-harvest facilities, more jobs and more irrigation. We have no demonstrations in the countryside. We have better things to do than going in the streets shouting slogans and calling for the President to resign," Cagas said.

He added that the Senate investigation on the so-called ZTE scandal highlighted by the revelations of Rodolfo "Jun" Lozada is now focused on fanning public outrage to bring down President Arroyo but this do not have any effect on most people particularly those who are in the countryside.

"This is an arrogance of the noisy few. The should give it a rest and wait for the 2010 elections. Their so-called search for truth are actually motivated by their endless desire to grab power," he said."

They should stop pretending that they represent the will of all Filipinos because they don't. The desire of most Filipinos is to be spared from all these noise in Metro Manila so that the government can pump more funds to develop the countryside," Cagas said.

Earlier, Manila Rep. Tricia Bonoan-David warned that staging another People Power revolt and forcing President Arroyo to step down may lead to a "civil war" because many Filipinos still support her government.

Compostela Valley Rep. Manuel "Way Kurat" Zamora also said Mindanaoans would most likely secede from the government if the anti-Arroyo forces will have their way in bringing down her government. (Office of Rep. Marc Douglas Cagas of 1st district of Davao Del Sur)

PCID lauds SC Chief Puno for Court's "preferential option for the poor"

2008-02-18T23:05:00.000-08:00

Chief Justice Reynato Puno yesterday said he would spearhead a workshop, tentatively scheduled for March, aimed at "leveling the playing field" and providing legal help to the poor, including farmers, fishermen and indigenous peoples, who were usually intimidated by the abstract court processes.

The Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy applauds this latest effort from the Chief Justice.

Coming on the heels of his valiant efforts to defend the victims of extra-judicial killings, the move to give "preferential option for the poor" in terms of justice certainly deserves acclaim from all sectors.

We are particularly happy with the focus given by the Chief Justice to those who are, for a long time now, at the margins of our society.

This, we believe, is essential to reclaiming the trust of the people in our justice system. The Moro nation is poorest of the poor, the most marginalized, and the most affected by armed conflicts. We hope that the Chief Justice will bear this in mind.

Poverty, exclusion and discrimination have long complicated the struggle of the Bangsamoro for self determination.This is a vital step towards changing the perception that justice in this country are only for the rich and privileged.

This is a significant stride in ensuring that we do not only have court of laws but court of justice as well.

We support this effort and hope that the proposed workshop will give all marginalized sectors a forum to address the injustice that they have long experienced. We gently remind the Chief Justice to ensure that Muslims, long victims of exclusion, discrimination and poverty, are properly represented in the workshop. (Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy)

SPORTS: Samal cycling to push tourism industry

2008-02-18T23:01:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/16 Feb.) -- The Island Garden City of Samal Tourism Council has lined up sporting events to help promote the city’s tourism industry including the staging of the Samal Festival Cycling Challenge which reels off on March 2.

The one-day bikefest with out and back course at the Kaputian Beach Park is one of the sporting highlights in this year’s weeklong celebration of Samal’s founding anniversary on March 1 to 7.

“We have sport events in our calendar of activities for the founding anniversary that could help us promote tourism in IGACOS,” said Cecil Ayuste, Samal Tourism Council president.

Despite limited budget due to Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) cuts, the Samal Cycling Challenge was included in the calendar as part of its efforts to make known the “inland and island tourist spots of Samal”, Ayuste said.

“We are forming Samal to be a tourist destination,” she said during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum at the Tower Inn Business Hotel.

The 50-kilometer Samal cycling challenge is likely to attract participants and sport enthusiasts from various places to visit the island garden city. The place is composed of 46 barangays including Camudmud, the site of fine beaches.

Salvador Paholio Jr., PhilCycling regional director, said riders from Metro Manila and Cebu have already signified their intention to join the cycling challenge which is expected to attract elite riders across Mindanao.

The cycling championship will feature road bike and mountain bike competitions. "The road bike will be an open event while the mountain bike will have the 23 years old and under and 35-above categories," Paholio said.

Cash prizes and a slot to the national training pool are up for grabs in the cycling race presented by IgaCoS Mayor Roger Antalan in cooperation with Karancho and Samahang Siklista Kooperatiba ng Dabaw. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

Davao Oriental LGU told --- “Listen to your peoples’ grievances”

2008-02-18T22:59:00.000-08:00

A church group appealed to Davao Oriental’s provincial government to heed the evacuees’ plea to stop the military operations in certain militarized sitios and barangays in the municipalities of Baganga, Cateel and Boston .

The Promotion of Peoples’ Church Response (PCPR) encouraged the provincial government to listen to the victims’ sentiments. The PCPR, a group composed of church leaders and workers joined the evacuees and human rights violations victims from Cateel and Baganga in addressing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental Province yesterday.

“We urge the LGU to listen to the grievances of their people. Instead of dismissing the peoples’ complaints, initiate prompt action within the LGU’s mandate and see how the government can work for the people,” said Reverend Jurie Jaime, acting secretary general of the PCPR.

Reverend Jaime noted concern over the military’s “tagging” of the victims and of the organizations that represent the victims.

“Peoples’ issues should not be buried with the labeling of people or organizations facilitating the victims’ complaints. The LGU should instead focus on the grievances expressed by the people, the victims. The problem is that the victims who profess their problems are considered nuisance and the LGU is constrained by their desire to cover-up the issue to save face,” Reverend Jaime said.

The PCPR will conduct prayer meetings and dialogues among other church leaders and members to gather more support for the evacuees who are seeking shelter in the grace of church support groups. (Press Release: Reverend Jurie Jaime Acting Secretary General Promotion of Peoples’ Church Response (PCPR)

2008-02-18T22:55:00.000-08:00

Mindanao rallies call for ouster of US troops and GMA

2008-02-18T22:51:00.000-08:00

Cagayan de Oro - Thousands of people in Mindanao marched in key cities to protest the opening of the US-RP Balikatan exercises and denounced the Arroyo government’s puppetry to US interests.

Cagayan de Oro became a central point of the Mindanao anti-Balikatan protest, as 5,000 people joined the Peoples’ March for Sovereignty, Peace and Justice including contingents from Zamboanga, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and Caraga.

Bayan Muna Representative Satur Ocampo and Gabriela Women Party representative Liza Maza joined the march and later in the rally called for the unity of Mindanao people to oust the US troops and President Arroyo.

Moro, Lumad and Christian groups led by the US Troops Out Now! Mindanao and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) convened the caravan.Rallies in Cotabato City and Pikit, North Cotabato gathered around 10,000 people.

Davao City 3,000 protesters led a rally and a cultural program. In General Santos City, 500 protesters marched in the streets after negotiating with police to allow their rally to push through.

“Along with our call for the ouster of US troops, let us also call for the ouster of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for her puppetry to US interest,” said Ocampo, referring to the growing protest against Arroyo in Manila following the ZTE broadband exposé of Rodolfo Lozada.

Ocampo and Maza threw support to the resolution by some Mindanao congressmen to suspend the Balikatan, citing the February 4 incident in Sulu where US troops were alleged to be behind the killing of eight civilians in a military operation.

Amirah Ali Lidasan, vice president of Suara Bangsamoro, said the US troops have “turned the Moro people into live fire targets of their military exercises.” She cited various Moro civilians in Sulu and Basilan who have been killed or wounded during Balikatan war games.

She said US troops were found to be joining ground operations with the AFP, in clear violation of our national sovereignty.

Lidasan challenged local government officials in the ARMM to side with the people and oppose the Balikatan over the grave human rights abuses of the US military against the Moro people.

Lidasan also lashed against the so-called ‘humanitarian missions’, saying that “US troops give us aid with their right hand, but their left hand is brandishing firearms that kill us.”Groups such as the Sisters’ Association in Mindanao (Samin), Ranao Crescent Against Balikatan Exercises (Racabe) of Lanao del Sur, Kusog sa Katawhang Lumad sa Mindanao (Kalumaran), and Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao joined the rallies.

Samin executive secretary Sr. Elsa Compuesto, MSM, said that with the Visiting Forces Agreement, “the US perpetrates an unequal relation with the Philippines where we become dependent on their aid, while they secure resources for their own economic interests.”

Kalumaran and Racabe called for the unity of Lumads and Moro to defend their land against the entry of the American troops, which will pave the way for “development aggression.”Atty. Frederico Gapuz, chair of UPLM, a long-time anti-bases activist, shared a personal challenge to the protesters:

“I’ve been fighting US military intervention for fifty years. It’s been that long, but are we ready to ensure that in our lifetime we can drive them away?”

The protesters responded with a resounding yes.The march rally in Cagayan de Oro ended with the protesters burning the US flag and an effigy of Arroyo.

The peoples’ march was preceded by activities set by the Out Now! Mindanao coalition in various cities, including forums and rallies. In Marawi, protesters threw stones at US military vehicles in protest of their presence.(Press Release: Atty. Beverly MusniOut Now! convenor)

SPORTS: Lanao Norte plans to turn over sports complex to PSC

2008-02-18T22:49:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/12 Feb) – The provincial government of Lanao del Norte is planning to turn over its multi-million sports complex to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

The local government unit’s plan on the sports complex within the Mindanao Civic Center (MCC) in the capital town of Tubod is intended to boost the province’s economy, according to Joseph Encabo, the chief of staff of PSC chairman William Ramirez.

Lanao del Norte’s economy relies mainly on agriculture and fishing. Tourism is also a growing economy, with the province’s coastal shorelines in the north and high plateaus and mountains in the south.

Encabo said the provincial government under Gov. Khalid Dimaporo had submitted a proposal to the national sports agency with regards to its desire to turn over the P50-million sports complex.

"When the Tubod sports complex will be managed by PSC, it will be very beneficial for athletes in Mindanao to get proper training closer to their homes,” he added.

MCC is an impressive 71-hectare integrated complex with a 5-hectare trade center, various sports facilities spread in 18 hectares, and there is still a 48-hectare open lot for the proposed 18-hole golf course, picnic park and sports academy.

“They would like to turn over the sports facilities because they want to maximize its use with more sports competitions to attract more people to visit the province,”

Encabo said.The proposal is for a 50-50 sharing in revenues between the LGU and the PSC. The latter’s share will be used for the maintenance of the sports facilities.

The MCC sports complex hosted the inauguration of the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG), a sport for peace event for the various LGUs across the island in 2001.

It also hosted the Palarong Pambansa, a multi-sports event for the elementary and secondary students nationwide, the following year.

This year’s revival of the MFG, which became dormant for half a decade, will be held once more at the MCC on Nov. 29 to Dec. 5.

Should the planned turn over push through, the national sports agency is expected to open another Mindanao satellite office in Tubod.

The PSC’s first such office was opened here last week.Encabo also announced the plan of the provincial government to put up a sports academy wherein Mindanawon potential athletes get to train and study at the same time, thus making it the “training capital” of future national athletes from Mindanao.

“That concept is much better because the athletes would be kept away from various temptations in Manila that could imperil their training,” he said, adding that it would also mean less expense for the PSC because Mindanao athletes do not have to be brought to Manila anymore. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Notice to the public: From the 1987 Philippine Constitution

2008-02-18T22:46:00.000-08:00

Article 3 "Bill of Rights" - Sec. 12

(1) Any person under investigation for the commission of an offense shall have the right to be informed of his right to remain silent and to have competent and independent counsel preferably of his own choice.

If the person cannot afford the services of counsel, he must be provided with one. These rights cannot be waived except in writing and in the presence of counsel.

(2) No torture, force, violence, threat, intimidation, or any other means which vitiate the free will shall be used against him. Secret detention places, solitary, incommunicado, or other similar forms of detention are prohibited.

(3) Any confession or admission obtained in violation of this or Section 17 hereof shall be inadmissible in evidence against him.

(4) The law shall provide for penal and civil sanctions for violations of this section as well as compensation to and rehabilitation of victims of torture or similar practices, and their families.

STATEMENT: Bobby M. Pagusara / MASIPAG Mindanao

2008-02-18T22:39:00.000-08:00

We are expressing our utmost concern over the most recent plans of conducting another US-RP Balikatan Exercises in Mindanao.

Over the past years, we witnessed that these exercises affected most of all, small and resource poor farmers and their families.

It has also been a trend that in areas where US-RP Balikatan Exercises are held, there are huge interests in the establishment or expansion of various development aggression projects. In the Philippines and worldwide, the presence of US Troops is almost always equivalent to war.Mindanao hosts one of the richest biodiversity in the world.

Our island is a gigantic depository of fossil fuels and other mineral resources. Our lands are vast and fertile enough to support the food security of its people.

Mindanao catches the eyes of profit-hungry investors and the economies of industrialized countries dependent on foreign energy sources; top on the list is the US.

With the economic recession that US is experiencing, it cannot afford to spend for the expensive sending of forces in Asia just to conduct medical and dental sessions or train less capable forces of Asian countries with no larger interests.

Exercises of this sort aiming to produce well-trained Filipino soldiers insult the capacities of our own Armed Forces to resolve national threats to the state.

Who in the first place has enemies, but the US?Historically, the agreements that our government contracted with the United States were never impartial and ended up destroying the sovereignty of the Filipino people over their resources.

The 322 POs, 28 NGOs and 15 scientists under the network of MASIPAG-Mindanao convey our disagreement to the presence of the US Forces in our country.

We need genuine peace and security of farmers’ and Filipino people’s rights and not war. Balikatan are exercises to make war and not peace, hunger and not food security. Together with other sectors with sincere values for life, we say US Troops OUT NOW!

Intimidation will not stop us from protesting against the Balikatan

2008-02-18T22:35:00.000-08:00

The past two weeks, activities of Out Now Mindanao have been subject to military surveillance and intimidation in Marawi, Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon, showing the military's desperate attempt to suppress the people's protest against the Balikatan exercises.

The latest of these incidents is last night's harassment and dispersal of our volunteers who were posting anti-Balikatan posters in Osmeña Street by two military agents.

The volunteers were slapped in the head, pushed away, and dispersed by gunfire by these agents who appeared drunk.Agents were also spotted spying in our forums in Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon and Marawi with speaker Prof. Roland Simbulan, a noted anti-US bases activist from the Center for People Empowerment in Governance.

In the forum in Xavier University last February 7, an agent was spotted taking note of the participants and the program. A student saw this agent writing on his paper “wala man dinhi si Satur” (Rep. Ocampo is not here).

We are treating this as an indication of a threat on Rep. Ocampo, if not an insidious monitoring of his presence and activities. Another agent was seen in the forum taking pictures with his video phone in Valencia, Bukidnon on February 8.

When asked for his identification and invitation, this man quickly vanished.There was also the well publicized stunt by Major Benedicto Manquiquis who unashamedly disrupted a forum in Marawi State University by calling the forum a "communist activity" to brainwash and rouse the students to mount anti-government protests.

His unfounded and rude statement resulted to university officials and the students booing him away.With the growing protests of the people against the Balikatan execises and the Visiting Forces Agreement, the military has shown its desperation by resorting to these tactics.

Their moves have shown that they can not stand up to any debate on the merits and demerits of the VFA and Balikatan. They have clearly acted as mouthpieces for the US military.

These acts also betray the propaganda of the Philippine and US officials about the so-called good intentions of the humanitarian missions of Balikatan.

The military is using underhanded methods to repress our efforts to expose the real intent of the Balikatan exercises which is to establish a permanent basing of the US military in the Philippines to promote and protect US economic interest in Asia Pacific.

No act of desperation and repression from the military will deter the people’s patriotism. Our resistance will push on. We warn the US-Arroyo government against employing tricks to delay, disrupt, or suppress the Mindanao Peoples’ March and Caravan today and tomorrow. We shall fight for the national sovereignty until US intervention is ended in the Philippines.#(Press Release: ATTY. BEVERLY MUSNIConvenor, Out Now Mindanao)

SPORTS: Horse Club's new prexy vows to undertake "civic actions"

2008-02-18T22:32:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/16 Feb.) – Newly-installed Davao Horse Club president Jose Salvador “Pete” T. Batu has vowed to undertake “civic actions” on his term as the chief of the pioneering horse sport organization in Southern Mindanao.

Batu, 65, succeeded Francis R. Ledesma at the helm of the Club.

An erstwhile big biker and founding president of On Any Sunday Riders Club, the DHC chief pointed out that his leadership would engage in civic programs like “medical mission and operation “tuli” (circumcision).He added they would go to far-flung areas that can be reached by their horses to carry out environmental preservation programs.

“We will maximize our resources to achieve these programs, “ Batu told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum.

To ensure the success of his term as president, Batu has enlisted the full support of all the Club’s past presidents by appointing them as officers.

They are Bong Ledesma, Sally and Benedicto Lim, Jr., George W. Misa, Andrew Tan and Jeric Olaguer. Add to this list of officers Tito Sorongon, Chelo Tan, Luchie Olaguer, Albert and Carol Angel and Dean Gonzales. Likewise, he has appointed the following as directors: Mike Dizon, Vic Noble, James Velasco, Marlon Mabanag and Danny Barlis. Last month, the new officers were sworn into office by Councilor Danny Dayanghirang representing Mayor Rodrigo Duterte at Marina Park Stables, home of the DHC. Dayanghirang is a horse rider himself in his hometown in Davao Oriental.

The big switch from riding the iron horse to the real horse for the new president happened eight years ago when he was invited to join a trail ride by members of the then-emerging group of horse enthusiasts.

According to the businessman and bon vivant himself, the change was rather quick. The trail ride rekindled his cowboy days in General Santos where he spent his younger years.

Batu has proven himself as still the able rider and horseman, leading the pack in the toughest of trail rides and gamely competing in the Royal Category of the annual horse competition circuit of the Philippine Horsemen’s Federation.

“I love the Davao Horse Club,” Batu proudly declared, adding that apart from getting a different high from galloping on a horse, the Club is truly a family-oriented organization.

The love for the sport and the club has brought him and practically his whole family into the sport – from his wife Esperanza (Neneng) to his children and grandchildren.

Though his wife does not ride, she is known to support her husband totally in club activities while his son Petejun, daughter Melody and son-in-law Dean Gonzales have become active members.

Grandchildren Mikko, Alyssa and Nikki Boy are now also competing in horse shows. The family maintains a stable of Arabian and half Arabian horses. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: PSC puts Mindanao satellite office in Davao

2008-02-18T22:28:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/Feb. 9) – The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has set up here its first Mindanao satellite office amid robust moves to strengthen its grassroots development program in the island.

Joseph Encabo, chief of staff of PSC chair William Ramirez, said the Mindanao satellite office is the first extension administrative center of the national sports agency.

Its primary job is to help augment the talent identification and grassroots development program of the PSC, the country's highest sports body.

It will also coordinate with various local government units the programs of the PSC in Mindanao which has 27 provinces and 33 cities as well as the promotion of Philippine Sports Institute, Encabo said.

The PSC official said they chose Davao City for its first satellite office in Mindanao because of its "easy access to information.”

"The Davao office can communicate easily to other regions in (Southwestern) Mindanao and Caraga for instance, "he said"And, this is aside from the fact that Davao City is the center of economic mobility and growth in Mindanao," he added.

The PSC has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs in the countryside that aim to strengthen its search for new talents as future members of the national team.

The PSC is also planning to put up "another office" in Lanao del Norte (Northern Mindanao) and also in Zamboanga City (Western Mindanao) to cater to the Zamboanga Peninsula area and Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

"This (Mindanao satellite office) was also established for the revival of the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG), the Mindanao's sports for peace program, later this year," Encabo said.

The revival of MFG which has been dormant for half a decade, will be held in Lanao del Norte on Nov. 29 to Dec. 5.

The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region in 2001, 2002 and 2003, was scrapped from the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage.

The multi-sports competition among the island's local government units was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) erupted in Kauswagan town of the same province.

The war eventually spread to other parts of the island with MILF presence.

The games were then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year.Aside from Mindanao's sports for peace, the PSC will also revive the Philippine National Games and boost the Palarong Pambansa (National Games), a multi-sports competition for elementary and high school students. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

Touch of Wellness opens new clinic at Gaisano South

2008-01-27T07:26:00.000-08:00

Touch of Wellness last week opened its third massage clinic at the Mezzanine ground floor of the Gaisano South Citimall Ilustre.

The massage clinic operates daily from 9 a.m to 11 p.m with at least 15 well-trained blind masseurs and masseuses.

It offers comforting services at the great pleasure of the clientele that includes scientific therapeutic refloxology, shiatsu and sweedish rubdown.

“The customers can avail a lot from our services as it could help proper blood circulation, disappear stress and slow down the aging process,” said Leonie Español, 41, one of the blind masseuses in the clinic.

Therapeutic massage is defined as the manipulation of the soft tissue of the body, done with knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology of the structures, applied in a scientific, non sexual manner for therapeutic results, according to internet posting.

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage that uses thumb pressure and works along the same energy meridians as acupressure and incorporates stretching while sweedish massage utilizes long, flowing strokes, often but not necessarily in the direction of the heart and it has shown to be helpful in reducing pain, joint stiffness, and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee over a period of eight weeks.

A session of one hour whole body massage, a combination of all types, is only pegged at P180 while the 30-minute half body cost P90.

The 8-bed hygienic massage clinic is fully air-conditioned with relaxing instrumental music continuously playing.

At the present, the massage clinic has an average of eight clients, mostly Chinese, per day.

“We still need to promote and market by informing the people that we have already a massage clinic here in Gaisano South (Citimall), “said Touch of Wellness project director Riza Español.

Touch of Wellness is managed by United Blind Masseurs Associate Cooperative (UBMA), formed by 13 blind masseurs including Leonie and Riza with the help of Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) in 2004.

Currently, UBMA has a total of 39 incorporators.

Few months later following the formation of UMBA, the Touch of Wellness was established with the “grant money” of P169, 000 from the Department of Labor (Dole).

In the same year, Touch of Wellness opened its first two massage clinics at NCCC Mall and KCCC Mall in General Santos City in that order.

SPORTS: Upset marks DC-PRISAA volley opener

2008-01-27T06:59:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY (January 27, 2008) - University of Immaculate Conception (UIC) men’s spikers scored a resounding upset victory in the opening day of this year’s Davao City Private School Athletic Association (DC-PRISAA) men’s volleyball competition on Saturday at the Brokenshire College Gym.

UIC pulled off a stunning 23 – 25, 31 – 29, 27 – 25 upset win over defending champion University of Mindanao .

After dropping the heartbreaking first set, the Bonifacio Street.-based spikers played well enough and showed some spunk in the pressure-packed second and third frames to finally pull away with the win.

Last year’s runner-up Holy Cross of Davao College notched its first victory at the expense of Brokenshire College via default.

On the women’s contest, defending champion Holy Cross of Davao College lady spikers defeated University of Immaculate Conception , 25 – 15, 25 – 9 to open its title retention bid on a bright note.

Holy Cross displayed its awesome form to beat UIC and notch its first win in the tournament that serves as selection basis for the city's delegation to the Davao Region PRISAA Meet slated in second week of March.

The wards of Exequil Tomines came out blazing right from the outset hitting in all angles with its booming spikes courtesy of great set up by Elvie Mariquit who tallied an unusual eight ace serves.

Spikers Jasmine Burcelis, Aiza Armacion and Mykah Ramos combined for 29 kills with 12, 10 and 7 respectively.

UM volleybelles completed the opening day victors with a 25 – 9, 25 – 6 demolition of Brokenshire College .

In men’s basketball, University of Mindanao started its title defense on a right track beating DMMA-Davao College of Southern Philippines, 64 – 40.

Last year’s runner-up Holy Cross of Davao College bested San Pedro College , 82 – 27 while Rizal Memorial College shocked Ateneo De Davao University, 61 – 58. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

Tour of Mindanao: Davao City

2008-01-27T05:45:00.000-08:00

Davao City is a sprawling metropolis of over a million people located in the Southeastern part of Mindanao. It is one of the largest cities in the world with a land area of 2,443.61 square kilometers.

It is a place blessed with natural advantages. The soil is very fertile and rich in minerals. The city has abundant source of potable water. Located in a typhoon-free zone, its tropical weather is characterized by even distribution of climatic elements all year round. Temperature ranges from 15 to 34˚C.

Photo taken during the 2007 Kadayawan sa Dabaw. Kadayawan is the Dabawenyos and Mindanaoans thanksgiving celebration of cultural heritage, bounty, creativity and unity.
Photo from (www.landofpromise.com)

Strategically located in the Asia-Pacific rim, the city serves as a gateway to the world. It is a key player in the flourishing trading hub called the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA.

Davao City is in the southeastern part of Mindanao and is approximately 946 aerial kilometers from Manila.

On the west, the city’s boundary line cuts through the highest peak in the country, the inactive Mt. Apo at 3,142 meters above sea level. Cascading from the peak and going east down, one sees vast plains, unspoiled forests, fertile valleys, navigable rivers, the sprawling metropolis and world-class beaches facing the Davao gulf.

As 71 percent of the population resides in the urban area, its urban density is estimated roughly at 2,262 persons per square kilometer. Recent estimates place the population at around 1.4 million.

Photo from (www.kadayawan.com)

With predominantly migrant population, the city is a melting pot of cultures where diversities are appreciated and nurtured in a harmonious and peaceful environment. Major languages and dialects in the city are Filipino, Chinese, English and Cebuano.

The city has one of the highest literacy rates in Asia at 98.3%. Its labor force is cited as among the best in the region: educated, easily trainable, industrious, and English speaking.

As Mindanao’s center of commerce, trade, and services, the city’s modern infrastructures and world-class utilities provide viable support to economic activities.

Its urban center is home to quality residential and commercial units complete with modern facilities and amenities at very reasonable prices. Access is fast and easy to utilities such as power, water, landlines and mobile phones with IDD features, cable TV networks, and Internet service providers.

Considered by many as the de facto capital of Mindanao, the City’s strategic position provides accessibility and linkage to the 20 million market of Mindanao and the 51.4 million market of the East ASEAN Growth Area.

Davao is a place of perfect balance. It is fast-paced yet relaxed where the luxuries of cosmopolitan living complement the breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors.

Davao City is an investment haven, a place of perfect balance... where business and pleasure blend so well. (www.davaocity.gov.ph)

Media Advisory: "Walk out"

2008-01-27T05:34:00.000-08:00

Dear editors, writers, photojournalists:

Greetings

Attached is our media advisory for our press conference on January 28, 2008, 10.30am at the Conference Room-Fuchsia of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Davao City. We will be discussing issues currently haunting 'iskolars ng bayan' as state universities and colleges and being dragged into privatization... hence, a walkout on February 1. we are looking to seeing you cover this event. your presence of great help to our advocacy...

Thank you very much!

NUSP Secretariat

Statement: Press Secretary Ignacio R. Bunye on WEF

2008-01-27T05:21:00.000-08:00

The Philippine economy benefits significantly from the active role our nation and our people play in the global economy.

In addition, our security interests are well-served by the engagement we have with governments in our region and around the world during the World Economic Forum sessions and in informal dialogues outside those meetings.

The investment made by the President's participation in the World Economic Forum will deliver benefits in terms of new trade and investment opportunities, increased development assistance and an increased role for our country in international economic and political affairs and that is also why she is in Dubai meeting with government and business leaders and our OFWs.

Global engagement is a fact of life for the Philippines and our goal is to make certain we maximize the benefits of that process. (www.gov.ph)

Notice to the public: From the 1987 RP Constitution

2008-01-27T05:18:00.000-08:00

Article 3 "Bill of Rights" - SEC. 7.

The right of the people to information on matters of public concern shall be recognized. Access to official records, and to documents, and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, or decisions, as well as to government research data used as basis for policy development, shall be afforded the citizen, subject to such limitations as may be provided by law.

Solon wants mandatory human rights training in gov’t agencies

2008-01-27T05:06:00.000-08:00

A Mindanao lawmaker has filed a bill mandating all government agencies conducting training and seminars to include a regular course on human rights in their curricula.

In filing House Bill 2974, Rep. Datu Pax Mangudadatu (1st District, Sultan Kudarat), said it is necessary to strengthen the institutionalization of human rights not just in the context of law enforcement, but as a fundamental reason for serving the country, most especially for those working in all branches of government, from the rank and file up to the officials.

Mangudadatu sought the immediate approval of the bill as he noted reports tagging law enforcers as top violators of human rights.

Same reports placed government officials and employees as fifth in the list of perpetrators of human rights abuses, which include harassment, torture, forced disappearance, illegal arrest and detention and other gross disrespect for human rights and non observance of due process.

Mangudadatu said the bill will provide government officials and workers in the executive, legislative and the judicial branches a working knowledge of due process of law and human rights to significantly contribute to the efficient delivery of services.

HB 2974 mandates all branches of government including government-owned and controlled corporations and local government units to include mandatory study of human rights as an integral part of the education and training of all their officers and employees, giving priority to those units involved in the administration of justice, intelligence work and maintenance of peace and order.

To implement this act, the Civil Service Commission shall coordinate with the Human Rights Commission, advocacy groups, non-government organization and people's organization to formulate and design the course on human rights and provide resource persons and materials. (House of Representative press release written by Salvacion Beleo of Public Relations and Information Department)

SPORTS: Aussie sports envoys pursue Mindanao visit despite travel ban

2008-01-24T22:34:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Friday, 25 January 2008 07:33
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/24 Jan) -- Despite the Australian embassy’s travel warning, the Aussie sports ambassadors still traveled to Mindanao as part of their Philippine tour to "play friendship games, share the good news of the Lord, spread goodwill and make friends." "We still proceed here despite the travel warning given by the embassy in Manila to pursue our plans to share the good news of the Lord," said Greg Beacham, the team captain of the 10-member Australian sports ambassadors team. The embassy, according to Beacham, has a travel advisory cautioning its citizens to travel in some parts of Mindanao. It was Beacham's "great experience" in the island that dramatically convinced the other players to come and play friendship games and share the gospel. "It's important we do come. It's safe to come over," said Beacham on his third visit in the island. Australian Sports Ambassadors team captain Greg Beacham (center) explains the purpose of their visit to Davao City on Thursday's DSA Forum at the Tower Inn.Also shown are playing coach Jeff Long (left) and their Davao coordinator Pastor Gary Visitacion.DAVAO SPORTSWRITERS ASSOCIATION The Aussie sports ambassadors from Perth, Western Australia have played a series of friendship games in several towns in Bukidnon. In every game they played, the sports ambassadors held Bible studies at half-time, an interval between the two halves of the match that usually feature dance or song numbers or other side events, "to give time to know God, read the Bible and study God's words that would change our lives". "We have a wonderful stay in Bukidnon. We have experienced the Filipino hospitality in Bukidnon and here in Davao City," said Jeff Long, the team's playing coach, whose son, Kirk, is presently suiting up for Ateneo de Manila University’s seniors basketball team. In an unconditional gesture of generosity, the Aussie sports ambassadors visited hospitals and helped build a home for the orphans in Malaybalay City, the province’s capital. "We had a busy stay there. We played two games everyday and we mixed concretes for the orphans’ home," said Long, who was joined by Beacham, Hedley Taylor, Mike Valenti, Brad Potts, Giles Creelman, Danny Cook and Joshua Manthe in the team. The Aussies swept all 14 games in Bukidnon, including the 79-58 win against Northern Mindanao champion Bukidnon State University. "These basketball games make a difference in our lives," said Long. The Australian sports ambassadors will also play a series of friendship games in this city against collegiate teams, barangay squads and commercial teams that include the City Mayor's Office squad, according to Pastor Gary Visitacion of Ventures for Victory. "This is going to be tough but we look forward for the ministry side of our trip," said Visitacion. Visitacion said the objective of this visit "is to conduct some friendship games against local teams, learn the local culture of the Dabawenyos, establish camaraderie, and share the love of Jesus Christ to the people they meet during the games." "The last time this Aussie team was in the Philippines was three years ago. I will have the chance to work with 10 Aussies and play two games per day," he added. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

SPORTS: Davao region's best darters in 1st Fundador Cup

2008-01-24T22:25:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Friday, 25 January 2008 07:31
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/24 Jan) -- The Davao Region's top class darters will slug it out for crown when the 1st Fundador Brandy Corporate Cup gets going on Saturday (Jan. 26) at the Red Pam Diner's Dart Station and Retro Village here. Games proper will start following the short opening ceremonies set at 4 p.m. A total of 16 teams will dispute for top honors and some P50,000 cash prizes in the tournament, which is expected to attract teams from nearby cities and provinces. With the entry of powerhouse teams from Tagum City, Panabo City and Digos City, Jecle Rosales, member of the working committee, sees a stiff competition for all the participating teams. "This is a big tournament and surely, this would be a tough battle for all the teams," said Rosales during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum. The champion team will bring home P15,000 while the next three finishers will pocket P8,000, P5,000 and P3,000, respectively. The fifth to eighth placers will also get P1,000 each, according to Rosales. The tournament is jointly organized by Karaan Davao Darters Association, Inc., Madayaw na Agila Darts Club, Inc. and Dabawenyo Darts Club, Inc. and sponsored by Fundador Brandy. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

SPORTS: NBTC: more than just improving basketball skills

2008-01-24T22:23:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Thursday, 24 January 2008 00:59
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/23 Jan) -- “They can be winners in life, not just in court.” Thus, Eric “Coach E” Altamirano, Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas (BAP-SBP) National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) program director, forecast the upshot of the 40 young players who made it to the NBTC-Mindanao after their stint in the multimillion three-year program that aimed to develop and prepare talents for future international competitions. Under the program, Altamirano said, the young players would develop values, leadership and integrity. “But the most important of all, this program would help them develop love of country,” said Altamirano, a former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) chief mentor. He added “aside from improving their skills, we are also preparing them for the life after basketball.” He pointed out that “basketball is not forever”. “This program doesn't just make you better players or win back the country’s pride in basketball. The values you get out of this program is more important,” Altamirano told the players and their parents during the launching of NBTC-Mindanao on Sunday at the Bistro Rosario. Patrick Gregorio, BAP-SBP executive director, said this program would not just develop good players but also good Filipino citizens. “The best has yet to come,” said Gregorio of the multimillion program that is bankrolled by Tao Corporation and backed by Nokia. Tao Corporation president Jun Sy recently pledged P80 million as support for the three-year program of SBP's NBTC and the RP national youth team. On Sunday, NBTC Davao territory head Manny Nitorreda presented the 40 young players who qualified to the 14-15 and 16-17 years old age groups after the tryout conducted last January 12 at the Ateneo de Davao University high school gym. Of the 40 qualifiers -- 22 in 14-15 years old division and 18 in 16-17 years old class -- only four are not from Davao City. Gregorio and Altamirano have appealed to the parents of the young players to support the enrollment of their child in the program. They said the support of the parents would be a “big help” to the success of the program. And, they obtained a positive response. “We will give our full support to our child and to NBTC because this is a good program,” said Nonoy Bonleon, the father of six-foot-one Mario Emmanuel Bonleon, 13, who was identified by Altamirano as “one of the bright prospects.” His wife, Gerlie, added: “It’s very important. Being an athlete, he needs our support.” The SBP's NBTC program aims to identify, prepare and develop outstanding young boys and girls aged 14 to 17 in the countryside and serve as training ground for the national youth teams that would compete in all tournaments sanctioned by FIBA, the international governing body of basketball. “We want to give opportunities for the young players with national aspirations to train in the areas close to their homes by some of the country's topnotch coaches,” said Altamirano. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

Notice to the public: From the 1987 RP Constitution

2008-01-24T22:17:00.000-08:00

Article 2 'Declaration of Principles and State Policies' - SEC. 3.
"Civilian authority is, at all times, supreme over the military. The Armed Forces of the Philippines is the protector of the people and the State. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory".

Article 3 'Bill of Rights' - SEC. 1.
"No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws".

Lumads up against HEDCOR’s hydropower plant

2008-01-24T22:13:00.000-08:00

Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur—Bagobo-Tagabawa lumads are opposing the ongoing construction of the Tudaya hydro power plant, the biggest investment of the Hydro Electric Development Corporation (HEDCOR) which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aboitiz Equity Ventures.

“HEDCOR is in clear violation of our rights as indigenous peoples who have the inherent rights to our ancestral lands. There was no genuine consultation nor was there any genuine consent from the Tagabawa lumads as claimed by HEDCOR. If they claim to hold any proof, it was deceptively taken,” said Roger Limukon, chairperson of the Sinubadan Lumad Bagobo Mekatanod (SILUBAME).

SILUBAME, a local lumad organization that was formally convened on January 3, 2008, is a united effort of the Tagabawa lumads in Tudaya, Brgy. Sibulan Sta. Cruz who strongly oppose the HEDCOR hydropower plant which started their full-blown implementation this year. It represents their united stand on the defense of their ancestral domain, including the sacred Tudaya falls where they launched their rituals and now where hydropower plant is currently being built. (Press release by PASAKA, Confederation of Lumad Organizations in Southern Mindanao)

Fr. Paul Cunanan, 68

2008-01-24T22:10:00.000-08:00

Fr. Russell A. Bantiles/Davao Catholic Herald Editor in Chief
Tuesday, 22 January 2008 11:01
DAVAO CITY (Davao Catholic Herald/21 January) -- “Death comes as a new birth to Eternity. Live and love, then – Heaven is now,” runs the last line of the poem that Fr. Paul DC Cunanan composed last New Year’s eve. On Saturday, January 19, at around 3 p.m., he faced what he called “a new birth to Eternity”, as he succumbed to massive cardiac arrest at the Mindanao Heart Center. He was 68. Until his death, Father Cunanan was the director-curator of the Archdiocesan Church Cultural Heritage Commission (ACCHC) and held the said agency located at San Pedro Cathedral Parish compound since 2004. Born on June 3, 1939 to Ildefonsa Donayre and Blas Cunanan, Fr. Paul, as he is fondly called by brother priests and friends, is the fourth of nine siblings, and an older brother of Dr. Gerardo Cunanan, Davao Medical Center's Chief of Hospital who passed away last November 27, 2007, also of cardiac arrest at the same center. One of the two “most senior” Davao clergy – the other one is Msgr. Edgar Rodriguez, presently the chaplain of Sto. Niño Shrine – Fr. Paul was ordained priest on May 1, 1966 and would have celebrated his 42nd anniversary this year. In his more than 40 years in the priesthood, Fr. Paul has been assigned either as vicar or as parish priest in a total of 9 parishes of the archdiocese, including the parishes of Sto. Rosario (Malita, 1966-67) and Immaculate Conception (Bansalan, 1967-68). He was the former parish priest of St. Jude Parish (1974-76) and San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish (1978-83), during which term his pet project was the Comprehensive Resettlement Program (CRD) in Talomo area. In 1969, he founded Operation Build-Up (OBU), a movement which aims to develop Christian leadership and citizenship in the young people. It was an off-shoot of his 7-year stint as the director of the Archdiocesan Social Action Center (ASAC) of Davao from 1967-1974. He was also the founder of 4L (Love Life Live Love) Mission Foundation, Inc., an advocacy that promotes family and life, community services and scholarship programs. Since 1977, Fr. Paul was the chaplain of the Sta. Ana Multipurpose Cooperative and likewise a member of the Board of Directors. His love for cooperatives must be undoubtedly deep for he founded the San Lorenzo Development Cooperative of Talomo in 1985. A Datu Bago awardee in 1990, Fr. Paul was also a national recipient of the San Lorenzo for Peace and Unity Awards in 1991. In 1998, he became a delegate of the Church to the City Government’s Peace & Order Council. He was also involved in the Philippine National Red Cross as board member since 1989. He was also involved in farmers and workers apostolate from 1967 to 1974 and a member of the Association of Voluntary Arbitrators in the Philippines for 10 years (1989-1999). A master’s degree holder in Oriental Religion and a licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL) at the University of Sto. Tomas in Manila, Fr. Paul showed his passion for interreligious dialogue and ecumenism when he was appointed director of the Archdiocesan Center for Ecumenical & Interreligious Dialogue (ACEID) from 1996-2000. On Friday, January 19, Fr. Paul went to the doctor for a check-up. Confined to be scheduled for a heart operation, he gave in after struggling with a cardiac arrest at around 3:00 PM. His remains lie at the Chapel of the Saints of San Pedro Cathedral, San Pedro St., Davao City. Requiem masses are offered daily from January 21 to 28, at 5:30 p.m. Friends and relatives may also participate in the novena prayers during the wake from January 20 to 28 at 8 p.m. Necrological Services are set on January 28 at 7:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be on January 29 at 2 p.m. at the San Pedro Cathedral. Interment follows at the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Father Selga St., Davao City. A week before his death, in an interview for the “Know your shepherd” column of the Davao Catholic Herald, Fr. Paul quipped, “My heart plans my way, but my Lord directs my steps.” Truly, the Lord has directed the plans of Fr. Paul’s heart “to live and love” until he comes to what he calls “a new birth to Eternity.” (Davao Catholic Herald)

SPORTS: 'Sports for Peace' revival in PSC's P50-M grassroots sports budget

2008-01-24T21:49:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews

DAVAOCITY (MindaNews/26 Dec) – The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs that includes the revival of Mindanao’s “Sports for Peace” program. “With that grassroots sports budget, we will revive Mindanao’s Sports for Peace through the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG),” said PSC chairman William “Butch” Ramirez. The national sports agency will have an increased budget for 2008 after Ramirez, the former Ateneo de Davao professor, successfully defended it in both chambers of Congress. "We have a lot of genuine grassroots sports programs but we can’t implement them due to lack of funds. These are what we explained during the budget hearing at the House and the Senate," he said in previous interview. The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region subsequent to its three staging, was scrapped in the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage. The multi-sports competition among the island’s local government units in Mindanao was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the “all-out war” staged against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that sparked in the municipality of Kauswagan in the same province. It was then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year. Aside from Mindanao’s sports for peace, the PSC will also revive the Philippine National Games and boost up the Palarong Pambansa, a multi-sports competition for elementary and high school students nationwide. Ramirez said the PSC intends to strengthen its grassroots development program in search for new talents for the national team in the future. The grassroots sports allocation will be used also to boost the Philippine Sports Institute, rehabilitation of the boxing gym and of the velodrome, among others, he said. In related development, Ramirez said they have allocated P30 million for the country’s participation in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

20 percent discount on senior citizens' kerosene, LPG, petroleum products sought

2008-01-24T21:46:00.000-08:00

A lawmaker has filed a bill seeking to grant 20 percent discount on gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other petroleum products availed by qualified senior citizens.

Rep. Diosdado "Dato" M. Arroyo (1st District, Camarines Sur, Kampi) said House Bill 3183 will provide the elderly with adequate social assistance.

In filing the bill, Arroyo said the prices of these commodities nowadays are very volatile and are heavily dependent on international economic conditions.

"A fixed discount of 20 percent for senior citizens will undoubtedly be a welcome reprieve for them," Arroyo said.

This bill amends Republic Act No. 7432 dubbed as "An Act to maximize the contribution of senior citizens to nation building, grant benefits and special privileges and for other purposes," to include within its coverage gasoline, kerosene and other petroleum products.

"It is part of the mandate of the Constitution to prioritize the needs of the underprivileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women and children," Arroyo said.

"Expanding the terms of RA 7432 to cover these essential goods will be a step towards attaining our State's commitment of ensuring the security of our senior citizens," Arroyo added.

Arroyo urged for the immediate passage of the bill stressing the projected benefits that will result from the amendments. (House of Representatives Press release written by Michelle Sapnu of Public Relations and Information Department)

Group commemorates Mendiola Massacre and Edsa II, pushes Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill (HB 3059)

2008-01-24T21:23:00.000-08:00

Davao City – Anakpawis along with other progressive groups commemorated Mendiola massacre and Edsa II here today with a protest rally at the office of Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) saying “ the lessons of Mendiola massacre and Edsa II will continue to haunt Gloria Arroyo’s bogus presidency.”

Anakpawis southern mindanao spokesperson Editha ‘Inday’ Duterte said “Gloria Arroyo’s assumption of presidency through EDSA II was an affront of the people’s trust and the Filipino farmers’ legitimate struggles for genuine land reform.”

Duterte lambasted Arroyo regime’s proposal to extend the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) for another ten years considering the program’s inutility to liberate the Filipino farmers from ancient landlord exploitation.

“While the like of Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac owned by the Cojuanco’s remains untouched, the fact remains that 7 out of 10 farmers remain landless while CARP beneficiaries are being threatened of land confiscation,” Duterte added.

Duterte added Sumilao farmers’ unresolved claim of their 144 hectares ancestral land which manifests CARP’s bias for corporate interests and dereliction of the Filipino farmers’ welfare.

Anakpawis through the initiative of Congressman Crispin Beltran will push for the passage of the Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill or House Bill 3059 as an alternative to the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program and to finally realize for our farmers the genuine ownership of their lands.

“The Filipino farmers’ legitimate claim for land ownership is achievable only with the creation of a genuine land reform which will extend in giving subsidies for farm capitalization and sustenance,” Duterte said.

“Our advocacies in the House of Congress as the Filipino people’s representative will remain in liberating the oppressed especially the farmers who have suffered enough from the brunt of feudal bondages and state fascism,” Duterte ended. (Press release by Anakpawis Southern Mindanao)

Farmers crticical of jathropa planting, Biofuels Act

2008-01-24T21:20:00.001-08:00

As the debate over the Biofuels Act gets hyped in the Senate, the militant farmers group, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas – Southern Mindanao Region, pitches-in its piece on the issue.

“Foreign-funded Jathropa plantations are encroaching on agricultural lands and it only adds to the existing laws and policies that cause food deprivation among the poor Filipinos like the 70% farmers and farm workers in the country,” Celso Pojas, KMP-SMR spokesperson said.

He said KMP received reports from their members that 300,000 hectares of land in Compostela Valley alone are targeted for jathropa planting.

According to Pojas, “Jathropa investment is one of the agri-business investments so defined in the development framework of the Arroyo government which is causing the economy a great loss, and less food on the table for the poor and landless.”

Pojas lambasted the Arroyo government saying biofuel production would only make the foreign and big local capitalists richer.

Pojas recounted the statement of Noble Peace Prize winner Dr. Martmut Michel and UP professor Teodoro Mendoza who categorically said that biofuel production is counter-productive to food production.

“Production of biofuel over what the Filipino people primarily need reflects the unbalanced, unplanned, anti-people and pro-capitalist development scheme of the Arroyo government,” Pojas stressed.

“This shows clearly why the Macapagal-Arroyo government has no real intention to distribute lands for the poor farmers and indigenous peoples. It wants to maintain ownership of vast tracks of lands up for grabs by foreign multinational companies in cahoots with the local landed elites,” Pojas concluded. (KILUSANG MAGBUBUKID NG PILIPINAS (KMP)

SPORTS: BAP-SBP launches basketball training center in Mindanao

2008-01-24T21:16:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Monday, 21 January 2008 23:12
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/21 Jan) -- The Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas (BAP-SBP) embarked on its Mindanao National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) here on Sunday night with high hopes that the program could bring back the glory days of basketball in the country. The nationwide multimillion project was earlier launched in Luzon with the National Capital Region (NCR) training center while the Visayas training center will be inaugurated on Tuesday. "This is not a one shot deal. This is a three-year program that would provide world class training, " said Patrick Gregorio, BAP-SBP Executive director during the launching at the Bistro Rosario function hall. Gregorio, who had said he knows by heart the need for an honest to goodness countryside grassroots program for the sport, sees a bright future ahead for the country's basketball. "This is a good program, " Gregorio repeatedly said of the multimillion three-year SBP's NBTC program during the gathering that was also attended by NBTC program director Eric "Coach E" Altamirano and BAP-SBP Regional director Regino "Boy" Cua. The SBP's NBTC program, which is bankrolled by TAO Corporation, aims to identify, prepare and develop outstanding young boys and girls 14 - 17 years of age in the countryside and serve as training ground for the national youth teams that would compete in all FIBA, the international governing body of the sport, sanctioned tournaments. "We want to give opportunities for the young players with national aspiration to train in the areas close to their homes by some of the country's top notch coaches, " said Altamirano. During the gathering, NBTC Davao territory head Atty. Manny Nitorreda presented the 40 young players who qualified to the 14-15 and 16-17 years old age group's after the try out conducted last January 12 at the Ateneo De Davao University High School Gym. Of the 40 qualifiers -- 22 in 14-15 years old division and 18 in 16-17 years old class -- only four or 10% are not from Davao City. They are Mark Regalado and Chuck Orbase (14-15) and Paul James De Mesa and Jonathan Tonggal, the tallest of them who stands six-foot-two and one half (16-17). They are all from General Santos City's Holy Trinity College. This city's qualifiers mostly came from Holy Child School of Davao with 12 aspirants led by bright prospect Mario Emmanuel Bonleon, 13, who stands six-foot-one. The rest are from the Ateneo De Davao University (6), University of Mindanao (5), Stella Maris Academy (2), Jose Maria College (2), Holy Cross of Davao College (2), Southern Philippine Polytechnic College (1) and Davao Jones Academy (1). Bonleon, who won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) plum in the cadet category (14 years old and below) of the recently concluded Gaisano South Cup, is the youngest of all the qualifiers. Bonleon who took part in the 16-17 class during the try out can either play in the 14-15 or in 16-17 age groups, according to Altamirano. Nitorreda also named the NBTC Mindanao coaches as Pochollo Elegino, Miguel Solitaria and Caloy Salvador of Ateneo De Davao University, Roderick Conda and Augusto Banzali of University of Mindanao, Ferdinand Pastor of Jose Maria College, Ruel Josol of the Duterte Agilas, former Philippine Basketball League (PBL) standout Wynsjohn Te and Fil-am Ace Aspiras who is from Digos City. Basketball Buhay ng Pinoy , the SBP's official newsletter, which was distributed to the media, players and parents during the launching, reported that Tao Corporation president Jun Sy, an avid fan of basketball, recently pledged P80-million as support for the 3-year program of SBP's NBTC and the RP national youth team. "TAO Corporation is excited to be part of a dream to make Philippine Basketball a source of pride. We believe in the leadership of Manny Pangilinan (BAP-SBP president)", Jun Sy was quoted as saying in the newsletter. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: PRISAA in Davao City opens Feb. 22, judo & football back

2008-01-24T21:03:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Tuesday, 15 January 2008 02:08
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/14 Jan) – This year's edition of the Davao City Private School Athletic Association (DC-PRISAA) Meet will be held starting Feb. 22 with a total of 14 sport events and ushering in the reentry of judo and football. But advance games for basketball and volleyball will begin on Jan. 26, according to DC-PRISAA athletic manager Joaquin Sarabia. "We have decided to have advance games for basketball and volleyball because a lot of teams are competing in the two events," said Sarabia of the University of Mindanao. These games, he added, will be held every Saturday and Sunday until Feb. 9 and 10, a weekend before the opening ceremonies. Twelve of the 13 participating member schools are entered in the men's basketball led by defending champs University of Mindanao Wildcats. Half of this number will vie for title in the women's basketball. In volleyball, 11 teams will see action in the men's class and eight in the distaff side led by reigning titlist Holy Cross of Davao College volleybelles. Sarabia said football is back in the calendar of PRISAA activities after five years. "Football is now part of the regular event of the National PRISAA, that's why we will be having an elimination this year," said Sarabia. A total of four teams will vie for top honors in the revival of football in the DC-PRISAA with multi-titled University of Mindanao touted as heavy favorites. Expected to provide stiff competition for UM are Ateneo de Davao University, Agro Industrial Foundation College and Brokenshire College. DC-PRISAA officials are now screening the requirements of the team entries, most especially on the eligibility of the players. "There are few problems but we are optimistic that all of those will be OK before the competition starts, " he said. Winners in the city meet will represent Davao City in the Davao Region PRISAA Meet slated in second week of March. The National PRISAA Championships will be on April 7-13 in Zamboanga City. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

SPORTS: PATAFA says fewer track & field athetes now

2008-01-24T21:01:00.000-08:00

PATAFA says fewer track & field athetes now

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Tuesday, 15 January 2008 02:05
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/14 Jan) -- The number of track and field athletes in Southern Mindanao is declining, according to Belen Kempis-Taala, regional chief of the Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association (PATAFA). "We have athletes but only few. The number is reducing," Taala, who was alarmed by the current dilemma the sport is facing, told MindaNews on Monday. Taala blamed the lack of competition and slow promotion that slightly hampered the grassroots development of the sport in the region. "When I visit schools, it's sad to learn that there are only a few students who engage or has an interest in playing the sport," Taala lamented. "If this will continue, we will have a problem," she added. Addressing the debacle, Taala said she is planning to conduct monthly competitions to provide tournaments and encourage the young ones to play the sport. "This is one way of promoting the sport," said Taala. In this city, the Davao City Private School Athletic Association (DC-PRISAA) and its regional competition, the Southern Mindanao PRISAA, are the only tournaments for the tertiary athletes. In the case of elementary and high school athletes, only the Davao City Athletic Association (DCAA) and the Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) offer tournaments for track and field. Both school-based competitions are held annually. There is no track and field competition in the calendar of Davao Association of Colleges and Schools (DACS), one of the multi-sport inter-school competitions in the region. Track stars in Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte and Davao Oriental are also competing in the Southern Mindanao PRISAA and DAVRAA that serve as selection basis for the region's delegation to the annual National PRISAA championships and Palarong Pambansa. Taala also called for the development of the Davao City National High School track oval so that local athletes would have a venue for training and for future competitions. "It's beautiful. It's a standard oval," said Taala of the DCNH oval. Davao Oriental has its own track oval inside the Mati Centennial Sports Complex in the City of Mati while Davao del Norte has one at the Capitol Sports Complex in Tagum City, the capital. Despite the problems track and field is facing the past several years, the Southern Mindanao PRISAA men's team ruled last year's National PRISAA Championships Athletics competition in Iloilo City, according to Joaquin Sarabia, SM-PRISAA athletic manager. Also last year, Anthony Nevza, a native of Davao del Sur, won gold medal in the 400-meter run during the Palarong Pambansa that was held in Koronadal City, South Cotabato. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

SPORTS: Fitness center to organize cage fest for healthy living

2008-01-24T20:52:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Friday, 18 January 2008 00:12
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/17 Jan) -- Holiday Gym and Spa (HGS), among the leading fitness centers in Mindanao, is organizing a 3-on-3 basketball tournament in line with its campaign for healthy living. Dubbed as Holiday Basketball League (HBL), the tournament will kick off Feb. 16-17 at the Holiday Gym and Spa newly-built two 3-on-3 basketball courts. Ivy Fernandez, HGS chief operations officer, said the tournament is categorized into "three age categories" that includes 16-21, 22- 27 and 28 years old and above. "This is open to all Davaoeños," said Fernandez during the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum on Thursday. She added they will send invitations to schools and companies because "we are also looking for young professionals to engage in the sport," the country’s most popular. Mechanics of the tournament is now being finalized, according to Cocoy Malbog, gym supervisor and tournament director. "We are now finalizing the mechanics of the tournament and definitely, we will be using the usual format of a 3-on3 competition," said Malbog, who joined Fernandez in the weekly sports forum. HGS owns and operates a fully integrated sports, fitness and spa complex, offering quality facilities and services -- a world-class gym, boxing gym, covered jogging track, badminton courts, swimming pool, sauna and steam bath, group exercise classes, body, foot massage and now basketball court. It encourages everybody to integrate healthy and physical activity into their every day life -- at home, at school, at work, at play. Fernandez said HGS is planning to put up branches in the cities of Zamboanga and General Santos. "We have already a spa in GenSan but we are looking for a much bigger place to build the fitness center," said Fernandez, adding that everything is set for the construction of the fitness center in Zamboanga City. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

"Consequences of Mindanao war have been very painful - and costly"

2008-01-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

"Consequences of Mindanao war have been very painful - and costly"

Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society
Wednesday, 09 January 2008 23:00
MARAWI CITY (Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society/09 January) — It was early as 6:00 a.m. and some 20,000 people from all walks of life started to troop from the different towns of Lanao del Sur to Tomas Cabili Plaza in Barangay Banggolo, here. A number of them were transported by vehicles of different sizes; some crossed the Lanao Lake onboard water vessels; the rest were on foot. At 8:00 a.m. the city turned red with red streamers, placards, t-shirts and flaglets. Written on them was “Allahu Akbar!”, Arabic term for “God is Great.” It was Jan. 9, 2008, and the people in Lanao del Sur were having a march-rally. It was the second leg of the series of Mindanao-wide peace rally led by the Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS), a network of 164 civil society organizations (CSOs) in Mindanao. The organizer of the rally in the region is the Ranaw Regional Management Committee of CBCS, led by Amenodin Cali. “The failure of peace agreements in the past can be attributed mainly to the non-participation of the Bangsamoro people, because non-participation means they do not own a peace agreement,” said Abdullah Dalidig of the Islamic Movement for Electoral Reform and Good Governance (IMERGG) and Muslim Multi-sectoral Movement for Peace and Development (MMMPD). “As real stakeholders, their collective voice should be basis of authority and the last word in the solution of the problem.” “The consequences of war in Mindanao have been very painful and costly. More than 150,000 people died and 100,000 were estimated to be injured. Millions were displaced from their homes and several hundred thousands, including more than 200,000 Bangsamoro who sought refuge in the Malaysian State of Sabah have not returned home,” Dalidig added. Anwar Saluwang, deputy secretary-general of United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD), an organization of Muslim youths based in Cotabato City called for the immediate return to the negotiating table of both the Philippine government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels. “We the Bangsamoro in Central Mindanao feel exactly what is felt by people in Ranaw. The Government should not wait for the Bangsamoro to becomes Bangsamoro Armed Forces,” he cited. Saluwang was there with the Marawi-based members of UNYPAD. The first leg of the peace rally was held in Cotabato City and participated by more than 30,000 sectoral representatives. Still, the call is addressed to both the Government and the MILF to immediately resolve the present gaps in the peace talks. “The Bangsamoro does not belong to the MILF or the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) but the MILF and the MNLF belong to the Bangsamoro,” said Sammy Maulana, secretary-general of CBCS, as he called for the dismissal of early misconceptions that the rally was “pro-MILF” and anti-government. A number of questions have been raised by the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that participated in the second leg of the rally regarding the present status of the peace talks, as written in their united statements. “Is it due to the lack of sincerity of both parties? Or shall we blame the MNLF, MILF and ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) who seem disunited? Or is it due to inadequate international involvement of the paid spoilers (alleged terrorists)? Or is the review of the GRP-MNLF-FPA, an obstacle to the GRP-MILF Peace process? Can there be a creative and yet acceptable process without violating the Philippine Constitution? What will happen in the event of the collapse of the MILF-GRP Peace Talks?” “There is no doubt that the failure of peace agreement will lead to violence, chaos and war. But the people are tired of war. It is anti-people and violates the very core values of all religions and civil society: love, peace, nonviolence,” the CSOs stated. (Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society)

SPORTS: 2 Mindanawon RP standouts to train abroad

2008-01-24T20:48:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Wednesday, 09 January 2008 20:43
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/09 January) – Two Mindanawon members of the national baseball team are set to attend training camp abroad. Davao City ’s Edmer Del Socorro and Jonas Fonce of Zamboanga City will be joining training camp’s in Japan and Taiwan respectively. Del Socorro and Fonce were part of the Team Philippines that won gold medal during the 2005 Southeast Asian Games held in Manila and took silver medal in the recent 24th Seag in Thailand last December. Fonce, a center fielder, might end up playing for a professional team. He has been invited to join the try out of the Lanyo Bears in Taiwan , according to his teammate Ruel Batuto who is also from Davao City. Del Socorro, a product of University of Mindanao, will leave for Japan later this month in time for the February 1 -17 training camp of a Japan College Team. His trip is bankrolled by a Japanese citizen. "This training would be a big help for my personal evaluation of the game, "said the former UM star pitcher Del Socorro who gave Southern Mindanao several championships in the National PRISAA Meet before joining the national team. Philippine Amateur Baseball Association (PABA) Southern Mindanao chief Joaquin Sarabia said he is elated to learn the opportunity given to Del Socorroto to train in Japan . "We all know the baseball in Japan . It would help him understand more the game and boost his knowledge of the sport, of course, improve his skills," said Sarabia, who is also the UM sports coordinator and baseball team head coach. Del Socorro said he needs to go back to Manila hopefully next week to prepare his travel documents.(Rico Biliran/MindaNews)

SPORTS: Perez off to China for Beijing Olympics qualifying preparation

2008-01-24T20:46:00.000-08:00

Rico Biliran/MindaNews
Friday, 04 January 2008 02:36
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/3 Jan) -- Davao City diving sensation Shiela Mae Perez will leave for China today to join her fellow Dabawenyo teammates in the Philippine national diving team for a six-week training in time for the World Cup slated February 19. Perez, who won a gold and a silver in the 24th Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) in Thailand, will join Dabawenyos Zandro Domenios, Ryan Fabriga, Nino Carog and Jaime Asok who arrived in China two days ago. The China World Cup is a qualifying tournament for the August 2008 Beijing Olympics, with the top 36 making it to Olympics. The 22-year-old lass is optimistic that she would qualify to the summer games. But she was quick to add, with a laugh: “If I won't qualify, I will take a vacation here in Davao.” Perez had already showed her worth in the international scene. She made it to the Sydney Olympics in 2000, and winning three gold medals during the 2005 SEAG in Manila. Last month in Thailand, Perez, touted as Davao's wonder girl for her remarkable showing in the sport, won one gold medal. But she believes she won two. A native of Barangay Sasa, she convincingly won the gold in the 3-m springboard and settled for silver in the controversial 1-m springboard. “Wala tayong magagawa, e. Pero alam ng lahat na hindi ako natalo sa dive (referring to the 1-m springboard). Sa totoo lang, akin pa rin ang gold, sa judges ang silver,” she told sports journalist during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum on Thursday. She ruled the two events in the 2005 SEAG that was held in Trace College Aquatics Center in Los Baños, Laguna. Perez has set her sight now on the upcoming qualifying rounds for the Beijing Olympics. Winning an Olympic gold is her long time dream. "It's historic when you get the Olympic gold, especially if it's for your country. I want to have the honor of giving it to the Philippines," she said in http://firstfilipina.blogspot.com. She appeared in the prestigious blog for being the First Filipina to win three gold medals in the 2005 SEAG. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)

SPORTS: Mindanawons banners RP in Thailand Seag

2008-01-24T20:43:00.000-08:00

Mindanawons banners RP in Thailand Seag

Rico Jhone Biliran / MindaNews

Monday, 03 December 2007 10:16

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/02 December) -- After showing their worth in the previous Southeast Asian Games, Mindanawons will be at the forefront of Team Philippines’ bid to retain overall championship when the 24^th edition of the biennial meet unfolds on December 6 – 16 in Thailand.

Mindanawons led by Davao City’s diving sensation Shiela Mae Perez and South Cotabato’s Henry Dagmil contributed numerous gold medals when the Filipinos reigned supreme in the SEAG which the country hosted two years ago.

Perez won three gold medals while Dagmil pocketed two, one coming from the hotly-contested long jump event which he ruled in record-breaking fashion.

Perez and Dagmil will banner their respective events in the Bangkok SEAG where the Philippines will be sending more than 400 athletes for its title-retention bid.

Though Perez and Dagmil are both recuperating from injuries, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez was optimistic they could still deliver the goods for the country.

"She (Perez) has an injury, but she is set for Seag," said Ramirez who proudly told sports journalists here that the RP diving team is mostly composed of Dabawenyos.

Joining Perez in the Dabawenyo-dominated diving team are Jaime Asok, Niño Carog and Zandro Domenios who also won gold medals during the 2005 RP Seag.

Dagmil, who is still recuperating from a left hamstring injury he sustained in May during his training in Temekula, Southern California , will also be joined by several Mindanawons in the track squad, including Seag first-timer Jho-anne Banayag of Davao City.

Cue artist Lee Van Corteza of Davao City is also expected to win a gold medal in the Thailand Seag.

Batters Edmer Del Socorro and Ruel Batuto who played vital roles when the Philippines beat Thailand in the finals are still in the official roster of the RP baseball squad.

The other Dabawenyos who will see action in Bangkok are Mary Anne Basas of billiards, Anna Celina Gonzales of swimming, Ruth Dugaduga of judo, Frazier and Norton Alamara and Mansueto Pelenio of water polo and Merlo Albano and Rachelle Delos Reyes of football and golfers Jhonnel Ababa and Jay Bayron.

Ramirez acknowledged it would not be easy to defend the title in Thailand , although he remained confident the Filipino athletes are capable of doing it.

“We will go there to win and defend the overall crown not by finishing second, “he said.

Ramirez said the government is spending P100 million for the country's title-retention bid.

"We will not spend P100 million to be second. As a leader, you don't want to fight to be second. You fight to win,” he added.

SPORTS: Davao City's goodwill team seeks first MVBA win in 3 home games

2008-01-24T20:15:00.000-08:00

Davao City's goodwill team seeks first MVBA win in 3 home games

Rico Biliran/MindaNews

Wednesday, 07 November 2007 08:06

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/6 Nov) -- The Duterte Agilas-Goldstar Hardware is set to play three home court games in the resumption of the 2007 Mindanao Visayas Basketball Association (MBVA) and is looking to end its six-game losing skid and October blues that came along with it.

The Agilas-Goldstar will be looking for its first-ever win against Arthro Kontra Arthritis of Cebu on Nov. 9 at the Davao City Recreation Center with a hope that the victory would be the inaugural step toward curing an early conference debacle.

This Friday’s encounter is this city’s goodwill team’s first home game following a short break that gave the Agilas-Goldstar management a chance to beef up its roster.

During the time off, the Agilas-Goldstar acquired the services of ex-PBL cagers James Scott Razon and Joel Solis.

On Monday, the team signed up former Ozamiz Cotta shooter Melfred Sampilo.

The Agilas-Goldstar Hardware, jointly managed by Davao City Sports Coordinator Christopher “Bong” Go and Goldstar Hardware President Winston Ho, said the acquisition of Razon and Solis aims to provide a much bigger front line; Sampilo, on the other hand, is to beef up the outside shooting unit.

Following Arthro, the Agilas-Goldstar is also hoping for a home win when it faces the Manny Pacquiao Warriors on Nov. 13, 6 p.m. and will meet Misamis Oriental on Nov. 17, 6 p.m. at the same venue for its final game in the classification round.

On Nov. 15, they will battle the wards of the Filipino ring idol in Koronadal City. The Agilas-Goldstar management asked basketball fanatics in this city to support the team by watching the home games.

“While we are still looking for a win in the Mindanao-Visayas Basketball Association, we need your help to drum up Davao City residents' support to the Duterte Agilas-Goldstar Hardware team,” the Agilas-Goldstar management said in a press release emailed to MindaNews.

Go, who is also the executive assistant of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, said they will not be charging entrance fee to the viewing public, courtesy of the mayor.

Taking account on their last three games, the Agilas-Goldstar now has a good winning percentage, much better compared to their first three games. “It’s a strong team. Dili na pwede kumpyansa-an,” said MP Warriors head coach Ramon Pido of the Agilas-Goldstar team.

Backstopping the Agilas-Goldstar Hardware are Eleazer Berami, Wynsjohn Te, Dave Sagad, Arturo Atablanco, Alfredo Gonzaga, Jeff Bajending, Donald Delfin, Greg Delica, Morrison Mejorada and Bob Couzy Ilanga. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)