Saturday, July 16, 2022

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Editorial: Regulating alcohol beverages consumption

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 08:08 AM PDT

DAVAO City First District Representative Paolo Duterte and Benguet Representative Eric Yap proposed recently a law prohibiting the selling of alcoholic beverages to individuals under the age of 21 years old. House Bill (HB) 1753, also known as the "Anti-Underage Drinking Act," was filed by the two congressmen on July 11, 2022. The bill seeks to prohibit the access of "unqualified individuals to alcohol or alcoholic beverages." Section 3 of the proposed bill defines unqualified individuals as "persons under the age of 21 years of age, or those over 21 years old but are unable to fully take care of themselves or protect themselves from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation or discrimination because of a physical or mental disability or condition." Section 4 of HB1753 prohibits unqualified individuals from obtaining or buying alcoholic beverages. Likewise, the bill prohibits establishments from selling, giving, or providing alcoholic beverages to unqualified individuals. In their explanatory note, the lawmakers pointed out how the Philipines is among the member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) Resolution WHA63.13 or the "Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol." The resolution provides a global strategy for the safe and responsible consumption of alcohol or alcoholic beverages. "Policymakers are herein prompted by the said resolution to establish an appropriate minimum age for purchase or consumption of alcoholic beverages and other policies in order to raise barriers against sales to, and consumption of alcoholic beverages by adolescents," the lawmakers said. The proposed bill "seeks to impose a minimum legal drinking age in the country, in pursuit to mitigate and regulate the availability of alcohol to Unqualified Individuals." The bill is quite timely considering some recent incidents. There are those who have also observed the number of individuals below the age of 21 in bars and clubs. Some have expressed concern that it is still too young for some to go to bars, drink, and get wasted. Hence, there is a probable need to set regulation on underage drinking. When the proposed bill was announced, sentiments were mixed though generally welcoming. However, there are those who questioned if it would really address the problem of underage drinking in the Philippines. There are also those who also pointed out possible loopholes in the proposed bill. For example, unqualified individuals may ask someone who is 21 years old and above to buy them an alcoholic drink. Similarly, someone who is 21 years old and above may voluntarily purchase an alcoholic drink for their underaged companions. There are also those who questioned how such a law will be implemented, especially in regulating sari-sari stores or mini-marts. But details on these would be ironed out in the implementing rules and regulations of the law once it is enacted. It is probably time for the Philippines to regulate underage drinking in the country. Not that they are being "killjoys" here but it is a necessity to protect the youth. As the law is being deliberated in the House of Representatives, we urge individuals to observe or practice drinking responsibly.

Mean Tan Guinoo’s visual diary

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 08:00 AM PDT

AT AGE six, she discovered her love for the arts. At 18, she pursued Fine Arts as a degree. On her 58th birthday, she mounted her first one-woman exhibit. What is in between is perseverance, patience and passion as a painter; dedication as an art teacher; a fighter who beat the odds and rise above the challenges; and tons of love as a daughter and mother. Each role she took was like adding another shade on the palette. With each episode along the way, whether it brings joy or heartache, her colors become more vibrant. It took time for Mary Anne Tan-Guinoo to finally nod to a solo exhibition. Many have asked why — her followers, family and friends, students, collectors, peers. She may have taken a break from the local art scene when she started a family and moved to Norway, but she never let go of the brush. Moving back to her hometown, even with several other hats she had to wear - daughter, teacher, businesswoman - her presence in the art circle is felt. She would take part in regular group exhibits and art fundraising projects, and her pieces find new homes to brighten. Those acquainted with the artist would know Mean has enough in her trove to draw inspiration from and fill a gallery on her own. Only Mean knew when her right time was. It is now. Mean's first solo exhibit happened with the encouragement and backing by her mentor, and a life-long dream for an artist to have one. What is essential is that MeAn managed to muster the courage to take a significant step along her journey as an artist. Memoirs are a visual diary of the artist, her life experiences expressed in colors bursting on 50 artworks. Each piece tells a story that can fill a hundred pages if expressed in words — a flower that reminds of her childhood, blooms that brings her back to her mother's greenhouse, an array of blossoms she encountered in parks and gardens in Norway, dancers honing their craft in a studio, sunsets and landscapes she fell in love with while traveling, her family, her children. All these memories bring her warmth and joy, which she now passes on to her audience through her canvases. Memoirs, Mean Tan Guinoo's one-woman show, is dedicated to her children. Memoirs exhibit is ongoing until July 24 at the art & Resource Center Library & Gallery of La Herencia Davao, F. Torres Street. Follow D' Durian Daily on Facebook For more lifestyle stories, visit www.dduriandaily.com For travel stories, visit www.jeepneyjinggoy.com

Hustling to the top

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 07:56 AM PDT

POVERTY may be a hindrance to someone's dream but it never means that you have to drop what you yearn for in life, because you're poor. Poverty never stopped a top notcher of the recent May 2022 Nursing Licensure Examination. Elizabert Derama Lamoste, a daughter of a taxi driver, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Ateneo de Davao University last April 2022 with a Magna Cum Laude distinction. Growing up with not a well-off family, Lamoste relied on scholarship grants to be able to study in college. AdDU has given her this opportunity to help her take a step in realizing her dream of becoming a doctor. However, this was not enough to finance her study considering how expensive medical programs can be. In the middle of completing her degree, a pandemic happened. Although some have seen this as an unfortunate time, Lamoste thought that it was a blessing in disguise for her to make a living. "There are still other fees along the journey, like 'yong living expenses, 'yong medical supplies na kailangan namin if mag-hospital duty na, so to compensate po non nag-work po ako sa BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) industry full time, kasi nong third year and fourth year online class kami dahil sa pandemic (I worked in the BPO industry full time to be able to cover my living expenses and the supplies needed for hospital duty)," Lamoste said. Lamoste said aside from working in the BPO she also accepted jobs as a bookkeeper for some businesses in the city as well as selling medical supplies to her batchmates. "'Yong little rakets po, yon po naka-help sa akin na ma-sustain po ang mga needs ko all throughout my college journey (Those side hustles helped me sustain my needs all throughout my college journey)," Lamoste said. Amidst all these, Lamoste said time management is important to juggle work and studies. "Minsan po pag may break ako... doon ko gawin ang mga videos na kailangang i-pass or mga requirements (During breaks, I will do my assignments and requirements – like videos that needed to be submitted. I just have to balance my time)," Lamoste said. Lamoste said once their teacher will give them a task, she will do it right away and submit it before the deadline. Lamoste said working in the BPO company inspired her to finish her studies. "I am very grateful po sa BPO industry and everyone na aking na-meet like my teammates and my TL (Team Leader) na they really inspired me, kasi po sa BPO iba-iba po experiences ng mga tao, ma-open talaga eyes mo sa reality na hindi lahat na may same opportunity sayo, parang you get to reflect and then if I were in that position anong gawin ko (they inspired me. Because in the BPO industry we have different experiences. Your eyes will be opened to the reality that not all of us have the same opportunities. You get to ask yourself if I were in that position. What will I do?)," Lamoste said. Eventually, working and studying at the same time took a toll on her. "Exhausted ka masyado sa lahat and then sometime as human as we are, we tend to compare, bakit ganyan 'yong mga classmates ko? ...Kahit gaano pa kakapoy ang ginagawa mo, kahit over exert mo na ang effort but you're still at the same place, wala pa rin naga-move forward, minsan kasi may mga ganyan na days po na bakit at the end of the day unfair parin po siya (You get exhausted and then you tend to compare yourself to others. Why is it that with all the things I am doing, I am still in the same place? Sometimes it makes me feel that, at the end of the day, it can be unfair)," Lamoste said. Even though there are days she's down, she also sees a silver lining. "Pero ginaisip ko nalang po na at least may improvement sa sarili ko na mas nagiging independent po ako dahil doon sa mga experiences ko, at tsaka napatunayan ko po na kaya ko po, at yong self worth ko at mas naging confident po ako sa sarili ko (But I always think that at least I am improving, that I'm being independent because of those experiences I've been through and I was able to prove that I can do it. I have better self-worth and confidence)," Lamoste said. Lamoste said she is grateful to her aunt who supported her since she was in elementary school. "Siya po yong unang nagbigay ng trust sa akin na kaya ko, kaya ko sa Ateneo... Ngayon po nga nag-top na po ako sa board exam, sobrang laking pasasalamat ko po sa tita (She believed in me, that I can graduate from Ateneo. Now that I topped the board exam, I am grateful to my aunt)," Lamoste said. Also, she's thankful to her family but most of all to God. "Kasi throughout my battle po, siya po yong nagpatatag ng loob ko po, kapag hindi ko na kaya siya lang po talaga masabihan ko ng lahat without judgement (Because all throughout my battle, He made me strong, that whenever I feel down I can always lean on Him and I can say whatever I want without judgment)," Lamoste said. Left with two weeks Instead of having a little vacation after her graduation, Lamoste still continued working, and she only had two weeks to prepare for the May 2022 Nursing Licensure Examination. This led her to stop working and focus more on her review. Lamoste said during her two weeks' review at home, her family supported her. "Wala po talaga akong ginawa sa bahay non, syempre nakaguilty po kasi nasa room ka lang naga-study, and then thankful ako sa kapatid ko na siyang nagsalo sa lahat ng gawaing bahay at lahat ng utos nila mama at papa, kasi nagkulong po talaga ako sa kwarto (I felt guilty just being inside my room studying and not doing anything else. Therefore, I'm thankful for my brother because he did every household chores as well as attended to our parents' requests)," Lamoste said. Aside from studying, Lamoste also went to their church every night. "Kasi sa Iglesia po naniniwala po kami sa pagpapanata, pagpapanata ka everyday at humiling ka sa Diyos tapos magtiwala ka na diringgin to ng Diyos ibibigay niya ito, sa awa ng Diyos binigay naman po niya sa akin at sobra sobra pa po (For us going to Iglesia, we have to have faith. Faith that the Lord will give you what you desire. By the grace of God, he answered my prayers)," Lamoste said. KSD

BFP-Davao records 527 fire incidents in Davao Region

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 07:52 AM PDT

IN the first half of 2022, the Bureau of Fire Protection-Davao (BFP-Davao) has responded to a total of 527 fire incidents in the Davao Region with total property damage estimated to be at P60 million. Data from BFP-Davao showed that residential fire is the most common in the region with 226 cases, followed by industrial factories with 27, and commercial or mercantile structures with 26 cases. BFP-Davao Chief of Operations Division FSINSP. Esequil Tabon said on July 15, 2022 in an interview with Philippine Information Agency-Davao (PIA-Davao) Virtual Presser that the total number of fire incidents in the first half of 2022 is higher by 13.8 percent compared to the same period in 2021. However, they have observed that residential fire has decreased by 9 percent. Meanwhile, fire at industrial factors have neither decreased nor increased. "Based on investigation and analysis kaya dumadami yong commercial since nagbabalik na po ang mga kababayan natin nga nag-engage into business (there are more fire incidents in commercial establishments since more people have opened their own business)," Tabon said. Tabon said there are also reported cases of non-structural fire incidents such as grass fires and motor vehicles, but the number is not that high. Data from BFP-Davao also showed that Davao City has the highest number of fire incidents from January to June 2022 with 253; followed by Davao del Norte with 104, Davao del Sur with 77, Davao de Oro with 41, Davao Oriental with 36, and Davao Oriental with 16. KSD

Marijuana, most in demand illegal drug in PH - PDEA

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 07:50 AM PDT

MARIJUANA tops the most commonly bought illegal drug in the Philippines in 2022, said the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Davao (PDEA-Davao). "Dati ang shabu ang number one drug of choice in our country, as of today medyo naungosan na siya ni marijuana, why? Nagamahal man gud ang shabu (Before the most common drug in our country was shabu. As of today marijuana is high in demand because meth now expensive) because there's already a scarcity of supply," Noli Dimaandal, PDEA-Davao Spokesperson said in an interview with the Davao City Disaster Radio. Dimaandal said the price of illegal drugs fluctuates depending on the supply and demand. Meanwhile, Dimaandal said the street value of illegal drugs in Davao Region is among the most expensive in the country. He said the current price of the illegal drugs in the region is roughly P12,000 to P16,000 per gram. "[Its expensive] due to checkpoints, entry points maglisod silag pasulod, ang atoang mga Task-Force Davao personnel hawod na pud kaayo maka-detect og mga drugs, isa pa ang closed coordination with the PDEA and other law enforcement agencies, ug ang pinakaimportante gyud ang support sa community particularly sa atong campaign sa illegal drugs (it is not easy for them to smuggle illegal drugs here because our Task-Force Davao personnel are equipped to detect illegal drugs. They are also in close coordination with the PDEA and other law enforcement agencies. It is also important to note that we have the support of the community when it comes to our campaign against illegal drugs)," Dimaandal said. Dimaandal said the community plays a big role in fighting against illegal drugs in the city. "Sila na ang nagahatag sa atoa og information kung kinsa tong mga taong nainvolved sa illegal drugs activities, ngano man? Community man gud ang naa gyud pinakadako nga contribution why is it that those drug perpetrators in our region is atoa gyud ma-apprehend (They give us information about who are the people involved in illegal drug activities. The community has the biggest contribution when it comes to apprehending drug perpetrators in our region)," Dimaandal said. KSD

DavOr remaining province in Davao with guerilla front

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 07:48 AM PDT

DAVAO Oriental is the lone province in the region with a remaining guerilla front, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines 10th Infantry Division (10ID) on Friday, July 15. Capt. Mark Anthony Tito,10ID Spokesperson, said the remaining rebel group is the weakened Guerilla Front 18 which is also the last guerilla front in Davao Region. Once this group is dismantled, Tito said Davao Oriental would also be considered insurgency-free along with the rest of the provinces in the region. "Mao ni atong gipaningkamutan karon na ma-dismantle kining nahibilin nga naginusa na lang na guerilla front sa tibuok Davao Region (This is want we are working on right now, to dismantle the last guerilla front in Davao Region)," Tito said during a radio interview. Parts of the region were slowly declared insurgency-free this year starting with Davao City in March, followed by Davao del Norte in June, while Davao Occidental, Davao de Oro, and Davao del Sur are also considered insurgency-free but no formal declaration has been announced yet. "These provinces naa na sila'y mga respective resolutions declaring provinces, including cities and municipalities as insurgency-free provinces," Tito said in a previous interview. The dismantling of guerilla fronts (GF) in the country was implemented through Executive Order No. 70 of the previous Duterte administration, creating the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTC-ELCAC). Since the implementation of the NTC-ELCAC program in 2018, the 10ID were able to dismantle 15 guerrilla fronts in Davao Region. ICM

City eyes weekend vaccination in district health centers

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 07:45 AM PDT

A WEEKEND schedule for anti-Covid-19 vaccination at district health centers in Davao City is being eyed by the Davao City Covid-19 Task Force. "Isa na sa mga ginatanaw nga proposition sa ubang district health offices, kasi just like before daghan gihapon ug gusto og (That is one of the proposition of our other district health offices because just like before, many want a schedule on) Saturday but our district health office is operational Monday to Fridays only," Spokesperson Dr. Michelle Schlosser said during an interview with the Davao City Disaster Radion on July 15, 2022. She mentioned that the district health center in Barangay Agdao is the first to conduct a weekend vaccination rollout and hopes that other centers can follow soon. Schlosser said the City Health Office is making arrangements to properly schedule the human resources and logistics at the district health offices for the weekend rollout. "It's a matter of arranging and putting up a team na mag fill in didto sa Saturdays (to fill in during Saturdays)... Offsetting lang gyod na but it also needs arrangement," she said, clarifying that the other services in the district health center should not run out of personnel for the sake of the weekend vaccination. She added, "I'm pretty much sure the other district health centers are also doing their scheduling and offsetting para ma-serve nila ilang katawhan (so they can cater to their constituents)." At the same time, Schlosser mentioned that the Task Force will raise the concern to Mayor Sebastian Duterte and come up with a concrete plan regarding the Saturday Covid-19 vaccination. Meanwhile, Schlosser said almost all of the district health centers designated for the Covid-19 vaccination are fully functional as of this week, except for the center in Paquibato which is expected to begin its rollout next week. Based on the Department of Health in Davao Region (DOH-Davao) Covid-19 Case Bulletin, 3,206,629 are already fully vaccinated against Covid-19, while 507,120 are administered with the booster dose.

City notes increase in animal bite cases

Posted: 15 Jul 2022 07:40 AM PDT

THE City Government of Davao, through the Animal Bite Center of the City Health Office (CHO), has recorded an increase in animal bite patients in the first half of the year. Animal Bite Center Head Dr. Fe Consuelo T. Plania, in an interview with the City Information Office Friday, said there is a significant rise in the number of clients they had to administer anti-rabies and tetanus toxoid shots to during the quarter. This, as the office also observed a steady rise in animal bite and scratch cases each year. This is largely due to the increasing number of individuals from neighboring regions who would come to the city to avail of the affordable treatment and care here. Plania said that the Animal Bite Center caters to 300-350 patients each day. "We are serving not only Dabawenyos ha, but also outside of Davao City. All patients coming in, we are not supposed to refuse. Bawal gyud na sa amo mubalibad (We are not allowed to refuse patients). We have to accept patients, treat them as patients. And give them the favor that they need, the services that we have to render for them so that they can feel comfortable with us. Unya ma-feel pud nila (Then, they can also feel) how Dabawenyos can serve them as a whole through the City Government of Davao," she said. In the second quarter of 2022, the center served a total of 5,716 patients, a significantly higher figure than the 4,238 patients catered to in the first quarter of 2022. Of the 5,716 cases from the last quarter, 2,199 are pediatric patients 15 years old and younger. Of the total 9,954 recorded animal bite cases in the first half of the year, 7,016 cases involved dogs while 2,931 were Hence, Plania is urging all Dabawenyos to be more responsible in looking after their pets due to the increase in the number of animal bites and scratch cases in the second quarter of this year. Meanwhile, Plania said that although the animal bite cases in the city are rising, the center is still able to deliver treatment to all patients. In addition, the center continues to strive in making its services even more affordable and accessible to all by waving service charges – the P50 for dressing and P130 for anti-rabies vaccine and tetanus toxoid – for marginalized social groups. "Libre dinhi ang senior, PWD ... And then also, we have to check the indigenous patients. Makita man nimo sa ilang data because we have to check tapos di na namo sila pabayron. Dili pwede nga mahadlang na ang serbisyo namo gumikan lang wala'y kwarta ang pasyente (Senior citizens and PWDs are exempted from service charges. And then also, we have to check the indigenous patients. We look at their data to check and then we waive the fees. Our service must not be hindered just because the patients lack money)," Plania added. On the other hand, the center is eyeing to make Davao City rabies-free by 2030; the animal bite center is encouraging community-based information campaigns at the barangay levels to achieve this goal. Plania said it is vital to educate pet owners on responsible pet ownership. And, since a major fraction of animal bite cases are pediatric cases, preventive measures, such as education campaigns, must be endeavored holistically by the family unit, schools and local authorities. Dabawenyos are also reminded to educate themselves on laws regulating pet ownership. "We should know our limitations. Number one, we have to know ang balaod ana. Three months ang iro and iring, start na sa vaccination. And kinahanglan ang iro ug iring dili na sila magtambay sa gawas, chances are mamaak gyud na. So kinhanglan makakulong or matali na sa sulod sa balay. Unya kinahanglan ang pet owners should be accountable sa ilang iring ug iro kung makapaak na" Plania warned (We have to know the laws surrounding this. Dogs and cats that are three months old can be vaccinated. And dogs and cats must not be allowed to linger outside, chances are they will really bite someone. So, they must stay inside the home. Also, pet owners should be accountable for their dogs and cats when they bite)," Plania warned. From January to June of this year, 5 mortality cases due to rabies were recorded in Davao City. CIO

Tagum gov’t vows to help investment scam victims

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:42 PM PDT

TAGUM City Mayor Rey Uy vowed to assist his constituents who had been victims of the illegal investment schemes. In a press statement, the city government said helping the victims is part of its "100 days checklist" under his administration after being reelected again as mayor after years of political hiatus. "Ginapadayon ang pag-aghat sa mga nabiktima sa investment scams labi na kadtong pursigido mu-file ug kaso nga mukonektar sa City Government pinaagi sa CITY MAYOR'S OFFICE aron mahatagan ug legal assistance (We continue to encourage the victims of the investment scams especially those who are persevere in filing cases to the City Government through the City Mayor's Office so that they would be provided legal assistance)," the city said. City employees who invested in these scams are also urged to come forward. The city urged them to pursue their complaints. "Tambayayong natong hatagan [og] kasulbaran ug hustisya ang mga nabiktima niini nga mga scams (We will help the victims who were scammed by giving them solutions and justice)," the city said. SunStar Davao reached out to the mayor's office for additional details, but they have yet to grant an interview. It was in Tagum City, Davao del Norte where Rigen Marketing and other similar investment scams were first established in early 2019. From there, a lot of others had been founded in other parts of Mindanao and have since branched off to different areas. These scams had already been operating for several years but had only gained attention in early 2019. A month after the release of the cease and desist order (CDO) for Kapa on February 14, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) made permanent the order prohibiting Kapa from soliciting investments after they failed to file a motion to lift CDO within the given period. The schemes have business permits different from the investment nature of how they actually operate, as stated by SEC. Former President Rodrigo Duterte, in the same year, ordered the closure of these illegal schemes. "When it is too good to be true, it is fraud. Biro mo 'yung P100,000 mo would earn P30,000 a month? Ni bangko na 'yung Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas natin magbigay tres lang porsyento. Annually ha...It is a continuing crime. So arrest them and investigate it," said President Rodrigo Duterte on Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy's TV program Give Us This Day aired on June 8, 2019. In October 2021, the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic, Repa (Repa Paluwagan) emerged, which victimized some clients in Davao Region. Later that month, SEC declared Repa a Ponzi scheme and "does not appear as a registered corporation or partnership." SEC issued an advisory after receiving reports and inquiries from the public asking whether Repa's operations in Bohol, Davao, Bukidnon, and Cebu are registered with the Commission and if it can solicit investments from the public. RGL

Those planning to join Kadayawan events urged to get vaccinated

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:40 PM PDT

KADAYAWAN Festival 2022 participants are urged to be vaccinated before August, especially if the organizers decide to make it a requirement before they can join the events, said Task Force Covid-19 Vaccination Cluster-Davao. On July 11, 2022, Al Ryan Alejandre, Kadayawan Execom Spokesperson, said in an interview with the Davao City Disaster Radio that Kadayawan participants might be asked to be fully vaccinated before they are allowed to join events however Dr. Josephine Villafuerte, Vaccination Cluster Head, said that participants should be vaccinated ahead of time before the event. "If we intend to say i-vaccinate nato atong mga participating contingencies we have to do it earlier than the Kadayawan to make sure na mag-spike na ang ilahang immune level (If we intend to have the Kadayawan participants vaccinated, they should get vaccinated before the Kadayawan to make sure their immune levels are high)," Villafuerte said in an interview with Davao City Disaster Radio on July 14, 2022. Villafuerte said getting the vaccine a week before the event is not recommended. "Dili ta pwede maghimo og activity sa vaccination a week before, three days before it has to be a minimum of two weeks (We cannot conduct a vaccination activity a week before or three days before the event, it has to be a minimum of two weeks)," Villafuerte said. Villafuerte said that a vaccination card should be presented upon entry to Davao City for participants coming from outside the city. "Kinahanglan pangayoan guro sila og vaccination card if we wanted them na mag-abot sila dire na vaccinated, mao man pud ginahimo sa laing lugar pud (We need to ask for a vaccination card if we want them to come here vaccinated, this is also being practiced in different cities)," Villafuerte said. Villafuerte said it is important to be vaccinated, especially since the event is face-to-face. "Ang problema man gud ani (the problem is), we never know who carries the virus, labi na karun nga asymptomatic ang kadaghanan nga mogawas sa atong mga survey, sa atong mga swab (especially now that our survey and swab tests shows that most of positive cases are asymptomatic)," Villafuerte said. As of July 9, there are 155 active Covid-19 cases from 101 on July 2 in Davao City, 94 are asymptomatic and 61 are mild. Recently, Dr. Michelle Schlosser, spokesperson of TF- Davao said the predicted influx of cases would only happen if Dabawenyos become complacent in following the minimum public health standards and wearing masks. Schlosser also reiterates that being vaccinated with the primary and booster doses will help shorten recovery time if ever the individual contracts the coronavirus. KSD

856 brgys in Davao declared “drug cleared”

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:39 PM PDT

A TOTAL of 856 out of 1,162 barangays in Davao Region have been declared "drug cleared," said the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency- Davao. PDEA-Davao Spokesperson, Noli Dimaandal said that as of May 2022, Davao Region showing a big progress in clearing their barangay. Dimaandal said that Davao City has 67 barangays declared "drug cleared," Davao del Sur has 184, Davao del Norte has 147, Davao Oriental has 168, Davao Occidental has 97 and Davao de Oro has 193 barangays. "Pag moingon man gud kag 'drug-cleared' barangay mao ni siya ang barangay nga affected, so nag-conduct ta og Barangay Clearing Program, pag moingon ta og 'drug-free' nga barangay mao ni siya ang barangay nga has not been ever plug, so pasabot wala gyud siya'y presence ng user and pusher (If you say 'drug-cleared' barangay it's a barangay where illegal drugs were rampant and where we have conducted a Barangay Clearing Program. But if you say 'drug-free' barangay, this is a barangay that has not ever been plugged, meaning no presence of user and pusher)," Dimaandal said in an interview with Davao City Disaster Radio on July 14, 2022. Dimaandal said there are still barangays that have to be cleared. "Aside from that basin karun nga month naa na pud tay barangay sa Davao City na ma-declare as 'drug-cleared' barangay kung ma-comply nila tong mga requirements nga kinahanglan (we are expecting a barangay in Davao City to be declared as 'drug-cleared' barangay if they will be able to comply the requirements)," Dimaandal said. Dimaandal encouraged barangay officials to make their barangay a 'drug-cleared' barangay. "That is their legacy if imuhang barangay is 'drug-cleared' less na gyud kaayo ang crime nga mahitabo diha sa imuhang barangay (if their barangay is 'drug-cleared' that would also mean fewer crimes in their barangay)," Dimaandal said. KSD

SPMC notes influx of patients in Emergency Dept.; Mostly non-Covid-19 cases

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:36 PM PDT

THE Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) is experiencing an uptick of patients at the Emergency Department (ED), averaging 160 patients a day said SPMC Chief Dr. Ricardo Audan. In an interview with SunStar Davao on July 14, Audan said the influx of patients at the emergency room started to increase last week and even reached almost 200 patients, which is more than the current capacity of 115 beds. "Medyo na-alarm na rin kami (We were alarmed) that's why we released an announcement na kung pwede, yung mga moderate or mild, doon na lang tayo sa hospital (that if possible, moderate or mild cases can turn to the hospital and not the emergency)," Audan said, referring to the announcement on July 13 advising patients that the ED will admit critical cases only for the meantime. He clarified that the ED is accustomed to handling many patients at a time but the sudden influx as of late was unusual for them. "Ang mga cases na marami ang (Most of the cases are) pneumonia, stroke, heart attack or heart diseases and problems, kidney problems, and of course trauma cases," Audan said, clarifying that the patients are non-Covid-19-related. As an alternative, patients with non-urgent cases may turn to SPMC's clinics or online teleconsultation as the ED is inclined to cater to more serious cases. "They make use of our teleconsultation kasi doon pa lang, ma-screen na namin ang patients kung talagang bagay ba sa amin or hindi (because using the teleconsultation, we can screen the patients and determine if they need to be admitted at the ED or not) for that matter," Audan said. The SPMC Chief is hoping that the original emergency room, which is currently under renovation, can finally open next week on July 20 as its approximately 90 beds will help decongest the temporary ED stationed at the veterans ward. Audan said the ED and SPMC are working hard to cater to all patients since most of them cannot afford care and treatment from private hospitals but they are also hoping the traffic of patients will lessen soon. At the same time, the hospital chief said they are waiting for the new trauma facility in order to separate patients with trauma cases from the ED.

Road slip renders road connecting Brgys Callawa, Fatima impassable

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:34 PM PDT

THE road connecting Barangays Callawa and Dalagdag to Barangay Fatima in Paquibato District is closed indefinitely beginning July 12, 2022 due to road slip. Road slip causes great damage to a portion of the concrete pavement wherein a section of a road collapses rendering it impassable. "The probable causes of the slope failure based on our initial findings, the soil saturation caused by the continuous downpour of rain that resulted in water runoff likely weakened the bottom of the slope," Spokesperson of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Davao Region (DPWH-Davao) Dean Ortiz told SunStar Davao in an interview on July 14. Ortiz said DPWH-Davao observed ground movement in the area before the incident took place, particularly 150 meters in the ground, which weakens and damages the pavement due to the manifestation of cracks. "Halimbawa may cracks, tapos dinaanan pa ng tubig, there is a possibility na lalaki ang mga bitak (If there are cracks, then rain or water passes through, there is possibility that cracks worsen and become bigger)," he said. The cracks were first observed on the eve of July 9 due to persistent ground movement which is a natural occurrence, Ortiz said. He added another factor is the characteristic of the soil which ranges from clay to silty. The road will be closed until further notice since there is still an indication of another landslide. The DPWH-Davao will also conduct various tests and surveys, as well as constant monitoring in the area. "Beyond repair na yung area (The area is beyond repair) so we will request funds for the implementation of remedial measures in that section," Ortiz said. There is no timeline yet as to when the repairs will begin and finish. In the meantime, motorists are advised to take the Katualan - San Roque - Malativas Road going to and from Barangay Fatima. ICM

DOH records 12 cases of Covid-19 variants in Davao

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:32 PM PDT

THE Department of Health (DOH) confirmed on July 12, 2022 that there are 12 new cases of three Covid-19 variants of concern in the Davao Region. Ten individuals are positive with the BA.2.12.1, and one each with the BA.5 and BA.4 sub variants of coronavirus, as presented by DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire during a DOH media forum. The detection was based on the latest whole genome sequencing (WGS) results covering the period of July 7 to 11, 2022. "Sa kasalukuyan hindi pa natutukoy ang exposures (As of now the exposure is not yet determined) because of verification," Vergeire said. She added some of the cases also have mild symptoms but the majority are still being verified whether or not they have a severe case of the disease. It was also not disclosed during the media forum which provinces exactly the cases were detected from but the DOH in Davao Region (DOH-Davao) said they are already coordinating with the local government units (LGU) for investigation. "The DOH-Davao Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) is closely coordinating with the concerned LGUs for intensive case investigation, and to ensure the case management is aligned with the interim guidelines in the management of emerging variants of concern," the agency said in a statement on July 13. Nationwide, 60 new cases with the BA.5 variants were detected wherein as of July 12, 43 are tagged as recovered, 14 are undergoing isolation, and three are being verified. In total, 293 cases were detected with the BA.5 variant. BA.2.12.1 variant had 17 new cases, of which 15 are recovered and two are in isolation, for a total of 87 cases. While BA.4 had two new cases wherein both are tagged as recovered. This variant had a total of 12 cases. With this development, the DOH reminds the public to adhere to the "BIDA" minimum public health standards which include wearing the best-fitting mask, isolating when sick, double-up on protection with vaccines, and ensuring good airflow. ICM

DavOr Gov. reiterates strict enforcement of mining rules near Mt. Hamiguitan

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:30 PM PDT

GOVERNOR Corazon Malanyaon strongly reiterated her position in enforcing strict regulations of all mining activities in the province of Davao Oriental. Earlier today, during the Mining Industry Briefing with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) at the Provincial Capitol, Malanyaon asserted the Provincial Government's authority as an independent Local Government Unit over the mining operations in the province. During the briefing, Malanyaon checked the inventory of all existing mining tenements in the province and the status of mining operations and permits granted by the MGB. "Davao Oriental has never made mining a priority," she said. However, as sustainable mining is part of the national policy, it has compelled the province to assert its rights over taxes and revenue generated from it, which some mining companies have failed to comply with. "If there are no taxes and our province is being exploited, anong benepisyo sa aming mga tao? (What is the benefit to our people). I am just here to protect the interest of my people and my province," Malanyaon said. In the Governor's Inaugural Address, she specifically stated her policy on Revenue Generation. "We will intensify the collection of real property taxes. We will undertake all measures possible to collect every centavo of the extraction and permit fees on sand and gravel, aggregates, stones, and ores sourced everywhere in the province, and which tax collection will be shared with the barangays, municipalities/city. These are the only two major sources of revenue for the province; thus, extensive collection should be enforced," said the Governor. For the province to fully enforce mining regulations, Malanyaon appointed Brigadier General Leopoldo Imbang, Jr. (Ret.), who is tasked with enforcing mining regulations and environmental laws in the province. Brig. Gen. Imbang served as the Commander of the 28th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, and later became the Deputy Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. "I requested General Imbang to help me see to it that everything that is due the provincial government will be given to us, especially concerning extraction and mining fees," she said. While he would enforce the regulatory function of the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO), Environment Planner Dolores Valdesco, ENRO Officer, will take charge of environmental protection, preservation, and conservation concerns. Aside from the strict enforcement of mining laws, Malanyaon also emphasized her stand not to allow mining operations within the vicinity of the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Mindanao's only Unesco World Heritage Site. She objected to any plan to expand the mining operations near Mount Hamiguitan. "This early, they [mining operators] should be warned that there should be no encroachment in the protected areas of Mount Hamiguitan," said Malanyaon, noting the province's painstaking efforts to have it inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2014 and its agreement with the Unesco to "protect the area from any intruder." MGB Regional Director Atty. Jasper Alberto Lascano assured the Governor that there are currently no mining activities near Mount Hamiguitan. He said the only area where there is active mining is in Banaybanay town, operated by the Riverbend Consolidated Mining Corporation-Arc Nickel Resources, which has just resumed operations following the lifting of the cease-and-desist order after the company complied with the required and "costly" corrective measures. Lascano further assured the Governor that the agency will fully support the province's stand and will make every effort to ensure that the province's environment and its people's interests are protected. DAVOR PIO

Regan Industrial Pipes: Supreme, Superior, Tri-R and Strux

Posted: 14 Jul 2022 11:23 PM PDT

BECAUSE of its affordability, galvanized iron pipes have been the prime pick for large projects to cut down costs. But how can you guarantee that you are purchasing quality material? Most of the time, despite the great deals, cheaper materials don't turn out to be better. Choosing the wrong supplier can result in acquiring a low-cost material with weak quality, life span, and durability. Fortunately, we're here to present to you the most trustworthy supplier in the Philippines for galvanized iron pipes – Supreme Steel Pipe Corporation! Over the years, Supreme Steel Pipe has sustained its dominance not only with galvanized iron pipes but with different piping needs. The company is known to have only the most qualified galvanized iron pipe price in the Philippines! Quality and affordability are unmatched. Here are some of the qualities and characteristics you can attain from Supreme Steel Pipe's galvanized iron pipes: Durability and Endurance Supreme Steel Pipe offers galvanized iron pipes with the highest class protective zinc barrier to ensure that your projects withstand even the most critical corrosions and circumstances. Thereby making it immune to wear and tear and adding to its lifespan. A piece of the galvanized iron pipe is expected to last more than 50 years in average environments, with little to no maintenance required. Why Choose Us? Now that we've tackled galvanized iron pipe, let's take a look at the reasons why you should be partnering with Supreme Steel Pipe. Choosing a company plays a huge and critical role when it comes to your projects. Understanding what they stand for and what they value gives you guidance and puts you at a sense of security. With Supreme Steel Pipe, you will be effectively and efficiently accomplishing your project goals, and here are the reasons why: Time-Tested Quality If you're looking for a company to partner with, an effective way to see how competent and reliable they are, is through their track record. You'd be glad to know that Supreme Steel Pipe Corporation is a proudly Philippine-made brand that you will use and trust. Supreme Pipe has worked hard over the last three decades to provide consistency in all aspects of their products – from sizing, strength, fitting, and finishing. All products have proven to exceed customer expectations! Dependable Supply When you're in need of pipes, Supreme Steel Pipe always makes sure they're always available for a complete range of sizing whenever customers are in need. Products are also easily accessible for your convenience. Supreme Steel Pipe is servicing the Philippines nationwide! Products are also available at local and hardware dealers all over the archipelago! On-Time Delivery Supreme Steel Pipe values being on time to meet customer expectations and delivery requirements. We maintain accurate inventory records, create and maintain realistic and promising schedules, monitor efficiency, and celebrate your success! We are utilizing our logistics team and partners nationwide to assure you of our great service. Quality at Competitive Price Without a doubt, Supreme Steel Pipe offers the most competitive and quality materials in the market today. We are continuously innovating, changing, and upgrading products to make sure that our customer's expectations are being met. ISO Certification and PNS Mark To top it all off, you are 100% guaranteed that the products and materials you purchase conform to the highest standards. This has been proven through our ISO Certification and TUV Rheinland Certification. We assure you that we will consistently produce outcomes that satisfy the customer and applicable regulatory requirements. The Philippine National Standards certification further proves that our products are approved by the Bureau of Product Standards. Choose Supreme Steel Pipe for the most affordable galvanized iron pipe price in the Philippines Whether you are looking for the most practical black iron pipe price in the Philippines or otherwise, Supreme Steel Pipe ensures quality products and services. So what are you waiting for? Make sure that you are getting in touch with only the most reputable and reliable galvanized iron pipe supplier in the Philippines – Supreme Steel Pipe Corporation! As one of the most highly reputable steel pipe suppliers in the Philippines, we are the top choice of industries today. Click here to get in touch with us! For more information about Regan Industrial Sales, Inc's products and services, visit their website at www.reganindustrial.com or visit their Davao office at Damosa Business Center, Lanang.

Jitters over content

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 07:35 PM PDT

SINCE being invited back to provide guidance to Sun.Star Davao, I signed up with TikTok and reactivated my Instagram just to have the feel of what's going on. I was comfortable with Facebook since it's all about connecting with family and friends and that's all I needed from social media. But now, I have to be back in the loop and that uneasiness over what I see in Facebook Reels is reinforced. When social media encourages everyone to get at least 1,000 followers to start earning, the young, gullible, and less discerning ones can easily be victimized — knowingly and unknowingly. I cringe at how everyone is dancing, gyrating, and staring at themselves to get those reactions and followers. What divides social media engagement and narcissism and mental health? Nothing. What about those children made to see themselves praised (and bashed) by hundreds, is that even healthy? What delusions can random daily praises by family and strangers create in the minds of the impressionable? How big an ego can be borne from videoing yourself everyday to drive up likes and stars and shares? I don't have the answers, I can only pray that the educational system is equipped to counter the negative effects, which I doubt. As a child, mom would constantly remind me of leaving a clean plate; to never get more than what I can eat and just get more if what I have on my plate isn't enough. That's why I do not appreciate it when some well-meaning friend or host fills up mine in that very Filipino way of encouraging a visitor to taste as many of what has been prepared. Taste this, taste that, you have to have more of this and that... The programming I was subjected to, which I'm aware of but can't fight off, tells me to eat what is on my plate, and so I will eat... and eat... In my younger years when I was not yet in control of my temper, I have snapped back at these well-meaning friends and offended many. Now, I just glare at them. But many can be insistent, Pinoy nga eh. I'd bite my tongue long and hard and just slink to a corner away from sight. What does that have to do with the concerns above? Think, here I am, a full adult nearer senior citizenship than debut, still controlled by a chldhood program to consume all that is on my plate. How about those children now who are made to believe it is perfectly all right to gawk at themselves daily, expose body parts to entice viewers, and even do suggestive acts with their girl/boy friends. Then there are those who are not really studying how social media works to engage and earn, but are just out there to make a splash, a viral post, at all cost. And that all cost may indeed cost. A lot. To the person. In the future. At 21, I thought I already knew it all. I was an adult. I have the drive and the intelligence and the talent, I. AM. GOOD! Guess what? At 58, I still cringe at that 21-year-old me and her braggadocio. I am lucky, I was a young girl, a teenager, and a twenty-something BEFORE social media and smart phones came to be. All the mistakes I made, all cringe-worthy acts and more were never videoed, photographed, and shared in the Internet for all to see and follow. The toddlers, the children, the teens, and the young adults today are not that lucky. saestremera@gmail.com, FB @saestremera, TikTok @stellaestremera, IG @saestremera

Proposed expanded Anti-VAWC law to cover abused men, LGBTQ+

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 07:26 PM PDT

A DAVAO-based lawmaker has filed a bill that seeks to expand Republic Act (RA) 9262 otherwise known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act which will also cover the male equivalent of battered and abused wives, and members of the LGBTQ+. Pwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Representative Margarita Ignacia "Migs" Nograles filed on July 6 House Bill (HB) 1365 or the "Expanded Violence Against Women, Partners, and their Children Act" or otherwise known as "Domestic Violence Act of 2022." Nograles told SunStar Davao in an online interview on Wednesday, July 13, the bill aims to break the norms of abuse, as men are also vulnerable to it. "The amendment of the VAWC law to make it domestic abuse law is to cater to the reality that all genders—men, women, children, and the LGBTQI+ community — are and can be victims of all kinds of abuse as provided under the current law," the neophyte lawmaker said. She added that expanding the VAWC law would be a "faster response" of protection to all kinds of abuse such as "psychological, economic, sexual, and physical abuse." "It's about time that we stop domestic abuse and give everyone equal rights and protection regardless of gender and gender preference," Nograles said. In her explanatory note, she said that men and the LGBTQ+ continue to be discriminated against by society at large "on the basis of misconception and ignorance." "More adversely, members of this community have suffered domestic violence leading to their loss of dignity without the protection of federal legislation," the official said. Nograles hailed her hometown, Davao City, for being the few local government units in the country to have begun the enactment anti-discrimination ordinances that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The city passed, in 2012, the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, which sanctions and penalizes discriminatory acts based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, descent, national or ethnic origin, religious affiliation or belief, and health status. Gabriela: No need for VAWC amendment Women's group Gabriela Party-list said in a statement that including men as possible victims of domestic violence "trivializes the fact that an overwhelming majority of victims of domestic violence are women." Citing the 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority, one in four Filipino women aged 15-49 has experienced physical, emotional, or sexual violence by their husband or partner. Gabriela said that in 2020, the number of cases of violence against women and children reported in the Philippines reached more than 11,000 "Moreover, this data is just the tip of the iceberg, considering that not all victims report their abusers due to fear of retaliation," the group said. Gabriela said there is no need to pass such a bill to protect husbands from alleged abuse from their wives as they can easily file a case for physical injury. "Domestic abuse is about power and control. Therefore, in an abusive relationship, only one person can be the aggressor. And to be called an abuser, you have to have the upper hand in terms of social and monetary capital," the partylist said. In response, Nograles, in a statement posted on her official Facebook page, defended her bill, saying that it "does not diminish the reality that women and children are domestically abused." "The Anti-VAWC law is a law existing and will still exist to protect women and children, the amendment simply makes this cater to all genders and gender preferences to remove, if not eradicate, domestic abuse being done to not only women and children, but now to include men and the LGBTQI+ community," she said. RGL

Rep. Duterte proposes law prohibiting selling of alcoholic drinks to below 21yo

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 07:23 PM PDT

DAVAO City First District Representative Paolo Duterte has proposed a law prohibiting the selling of alcoholic beverages to individuals under the age of 21 years old. Duterte, along with Representative Eric Yap, filed House Bill No. (HB) 1753 or the "Anti-Underage Drinking Act", which was released to the media on Tuesday evening, July 12. The bill, he said, prohibits the access of unqualified individuals to alcoholic beverages. The definition of "unqualified individuals", according to HB 1753, refers to ages under 21 years or years, or even those above 21 but "are unable to fully take care of themselves or protect themselves from abuse, neglect, cruelty. exploitation or discrimination because of a physical or mental disability." In the bill's explanatory note, the proponents cited the World Health Organization (WHO) study on the Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol that alcohol use is the third leading risk factor for poor health globally as it causes an estimated 2.5 million deaths every year. The WHO study emphasized that deaths mostly occur among the youth. In addition, the proponents also said that the Philippines is among the member states of the WHO Resolution WHA63.13, which primarily provides for a global strategy toward improved health and social outcomes for individuals, families, and communities to considerable reduce morbidity and mortality due to harmful use of alcohol and their ensuing social consequences. Among the prohibited acts includes unqualified individuals possessing, purchasing, giving or providing alcoholic drinks. Establishments and qualified individuals who will be selling or giving drinks will also be held liable. Unqualified individuals who will be violating the bill will face the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) for counseling before being handed over to their parents or guardians for the first offense. For the second offense, they will be required to attend, together with their parents or guardians, two consecutive regular sessions of counseling by BCPC. Those who will not be attending the counseling will undergo disposition to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). For the third and subsequent offense, violators will be handed over to the DWSD with jurisdiction over the locality of the residence of the children for counseling and disposition. Establishments and those of legal age who violate the act will be slapped with a P50,000 fine or imprisonment of not more than three months. For succeeding offenses, both penalties shall apply, and the revocation of license to erring establishments. RGL

Davao City Library to open on July 15

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 07:19 PM PDT

THE Davao City Library and Information Center (DCLIC) announced that it will be opening on July 15, 2022. On July 13, 2022, DCLIC said on its Facebook page that visitors will be required to get a Library Card at P30 for a regular ID card or P100 for a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) type of ID. The IDs will have a validity of one year. Those with a regular ID will allow library users to do research inside the library but will only be allowed to use the books but not the computers. On the other hand, the visitors with PVC IDs will be given 1-hour internet access and will be allowed to borrow books and bring them outside the library. The library will be open on weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. only. However, DCLIC plans to conduct a survey to determine the preferred time of library users in the city or if they should open 24/7. Earlier, Arnel Enoc, Overall Head, Mobile Library City Library & Information Center (CLIC) said clients should also download the Davao Safe QR application since it will be needed to get inside the building. Once they are inside, they will be instructed to process their ID and fill out a form. The four-storey DCLIC building will include reading areas for kids and adults, an amphitheater, an information technology center, and conference rooms. Also, CLIC will have a coffee shop on the first floor and an open-air organic garden on the rooftop. KSD

Comelec-Davao urges voters to download, print reg form

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 07:13 PM PDT

THE Commission on Election-Davao (Comelec-Davao) advised those who planned to register for the Barangay and Sangguniang Election this year to download the registration form on their own due to the lack of supply. "We encourage people also na mag-download nalang daan sa form kung naa silay facility sa ilahang balay, naa silay computer, naay printer before going to Comelec offices (to download the registration form if they have the means, if they have a computer and printer)," Lawyer Gay Enumerables, Assistant Regional Director, Comelec-Davao, said during the AFP-PNP Press Conference on July 13, 2022. She added that this is to save time and to avoid long queues in getting a registration form. Enumerables said the lack of registration supply was due to the recent National and Local election registration. "Ang forms gyud karun, kulangan gyud me due to the last registration, but our election officers naga papa-reproduce sila sa mga forms, ginapariso nila sa uban sa gawas (We are out of forms right due to the last registration for the May elections. But our election officers are reproducing it by outsourcing it)," Enumerables said. Meanwhile, Enumerables said that there are satellite registrations scheduled on July 16, 2022, Saturday at SM Ecoland for the 1st District. The 2nd District is planned to be at SM Lanang Premier while they are still looking where they can have the registration in the 3rd District. "Pero dili pud the whole time mall, naa silay schedule... didto gyud tanan like walay registration mahitabo sa opisina (But this does not mean that it will be always in the mall and if there's a satellite registration that means there's no registration in Comelec offices)," Enumerables said. Comelec reminded everyone that the registration of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan for the December 5, 2022 election is until July 23, 2022 only. KSD

Official: Davao City hospitalization low despite rise in Covid-19 cases

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 07:01 PM PDT

THE Davao City Covid-19 Task Force said on Wednesday, July 13 that the hospitalization rate remains low despite rising cases in Metro Manila. Spokesperson Dr. Michelle Schlosser said during a radio interview that this is mostly because Covid-19 cases remain low and majority of patients are home isolated while some are admitted to Temporary Treatment and Monitoring Facility (TTMF) due to the mildness of the cases. The TTMF currently has a less than ten percent occupancy rate while the admission rate at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) is not alarming. "Katong sa SPMC, approximately 90 percent ang atong utilization dira (In SPMC, the utilization rate is approximately 90 percent) because it's not just Davao City patients, tanan na siya sa Davao region (it caters to anyone in Davao region)," Schlosser said. She added the situation would only cause alarm if private hospitals start to run out of available beds for patients. This follows after the Department of Health Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire said the hospitalization rate might increase by August or September due to rising cases. As of the moment, Schlosser said the Task Force and the local government unit (LGU) of Davao are preparing for more Covid-19 facilities including constructing Covid-19 Cluster Clinics (CCC) and TTMF per district. "We are preparing for the worst all the time. Ingana man ang Davao City (That's what Davao City does), we always prepare for the worst... However, if ang atong giconstruct na TTMF (if the TTMF we are constructing) is not enough, definitely, we will reactivate our previous strategies," Schlosser said, referring to renting hotels and similar establishments to use as additional isolation facilities. The spokesperson said the predicted influx of cases would only happen if Dabawenyos become complacent in following the minimum public health standards and wearing masks. At the same time, Schlosser reiterates that being vaccinated with the primary and booster doses will help lessen recovery time if ever the individual contracts the coronavirus. As of July 9, active Covid-19 cases in Davao City increased to 155 from 101 on July 2. Of the 155 cases, 94 are asymptomatic and 61 are mild. On Wednesday, Schlosser reported 20 new cases. ICM

31 Repatriated OFWs receive financial aid

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 06:58 PM PDT

A TOTAL of 31 Overseas Filipino Workers has already received financial aid under the Assistance to Individual in Crisis Situation (AICS), through the OFW Families Welfare and Crisis Center. In an interview with Byaheng DO30, Jupanie Bebillo-Simpao, Assistant Focal Person of the OFW Families Welfare and Crisis Center said that those who have availed of the P5,000 assistance are OFWs who got repatriated due to COVID-19. Simpao said that the center, located on the fifth floor of the CSWDO building, remains open to cater to OFWS who are seeking financial assistance. "Visit lang sila diri kay pag ma-interivew sila dili lang na siya diretso-diretso mi muhatag sa assistance, gina-home visit pa na nato sila kay para ma-assess gyud nato ang kinahanglan sa family so magdepende siya sa need sa family (They are welcome to visit our office for an interview. We do not directly give the assistance, we conduct home visits to really assess the need of the family, so it will depend on the need of the family)," she said. Apart from financial assistance, the center was also able to rescue four individuals through the report they received. Among these individuals, three are children, and one is an adult. Of the children, one is a 10-year-old girl who is a victim of sexual abuse, the other two are siblings who are a victims of physical abuse. CSWDO already extended intervention for these individuals. Meanwhile, the rescued adult is an OFW who is a victim of a hit and run incident in Naga City. Simpao said that the financial assistance and rescue of individuals are only among the assistance given by the center. "Gikan nagsugod ang OFW Families and Crisis Center naa nata'y mga 100 plus ka mga natabangan. Ubay-ubay napud ang atoang na-refer sa ilahang mga provinces tungod kay ang Davao City OFW Families and Crisis Center is for Davao City residents ra gyud siya so ang atong ginabuhat atong ginatawagan ang CSWDO sa mga provinces kung asa gyud sila nagpuyo (Since the OFW Families and Crisis Center started, we already extended help to 100 individuals. We also already referred many to their provinces because the Davao City OFW Families and Crisis Center is for Davao City Residents only, so we contact the CSWDO of other provinces where they reside)," Simpao added. The center, launched last May 2022, serves as a central referral hub for concerns of migrant workers. Those who want to raise their concerns may reach the OFW Crisis Center thru 0999 994 3577, or thru their landline number (082) 225 6214, email ofwcenter.davaocity@gmail.com, or message their official Facebook Page: OFW Families' Welfare and Crisis Center Davao City. CIO

Davao City to train corn farmers

Posted: 13 Jul 2022 06:56 PM PDT

THE Davao City Agriculturist Office, in a bid to further bolster the city's food production and curb dependency on external food supply and importations, will be assisting corn farmers in sowing their crops by conducting training on corn-farming technology. In an interview during the Madayaw Davao Program aired over the Davao City Disaster Radio Monday, the City Agriculturist's Office (Cagro) Head Edgardo Haspe said that the city's plans to increase food production warrant ample assistance to all farmers. The thriving corn market, which is currently attracting farmers to plant a cash crop due to its high market price, is given particular attention by the city government. The Cagro Head said that their office slated training programs and other assistance for the city's corn farmers. The Cagro chief said, "Atong makwaan ang dependence sa ubang lugar kung mapalapdan ang production sa humay ug mais dinhi sa Dabaw ... Isa sa ayuda nato kay training. Naa ta'y profiles sa atong mga farmers then we will train them para sa teknolohiya sa pagpananom og mais (We will reduce our dependence on external supply once we have expanded rice and corn production in Davao City ... One of our assistance programs comes in the form of training. We have the profiles of our farmers then we will train them in corn-farming technology)." Aside from the existing pool of corn farmers, the Cagro is currently expecting an increase in the number of corn farmers and cornfield areas in the city. The previous damage caused by the fusarium wilt disease on the city's banana plantation areas encouraged more farmers to resort to corn farming; a transition the office welcomes. "Very wide nga disease ni; dili lang dinhi sa siyudad, apil na pud ang ubang Davao regions. Naa ta'y mga areas gyud na na-igo gyud og fusarium wilt. Mao ni'y isa ka disease sa saging, labi na sa cavendish, nga dili na gyud matamnan og usab og saging for more than thirty years 'no. So ang ilang pwede himuon aning area kay dili na man pwede matamnan og saging, ila na lang I-convert 'no to cash crop (This disease was very far-reaching; not only crops in the city were hit, but also other Davao Regions. We have areas that were really hit by the fusarium wilt disease. This is a banana disease that renders the soil unsuitable for bananas. So what farmers can do since they can no longer plant bananas, they can convert their farm lands into cash crops)," he said. The land is still suitable for cash crops such as corn even after infection from the fusarium wilt disease. However, converting the banana plantations into cornfields can be particularly tricky and will require extensive assistance from the government. "Dili man delikado sa mais ang fusarium wilt so pwede gyud matamnan ... Although kasagaran sa mga farmers nato, labi na sa mga mga karaang farmers, kabalo na gyud sila mananom og mais no, though naa ta'y i-improve gamay. Of course, ang pag-prepare sa luna kay daghan man kayo na'g stumps sa saging, dapat i-prepare 'sa na una tamnan og mais (The fusarium wilt is not dangerous to corn crops so they can really grow that ... Although most of our farmers, especially among the experienced ones, they already know how to farm corn, though we need to improve some areas. Of course, preparing the land since there are a lot of banana stumps, there must be preparations before corn can be planted)," Haspe added. Cagro has already distributed Trichogramma insects to corn farmers. Trichogramma is a species of insect that is often released in farm fields to control the number of other parasitic bugs such as corn borers. The Department of Agriculture cultivates the Trichogramma in BioCon Laboratories all over the country to be distributed to farmers; the insects are then released to corn farms to regulate the number of parasites without resorting to the use of pesticides that contain dangerous chemicals. "Isa man na kay naa man tay BioCon laboratory para sa pasugpo sa Corn Borer no. Naa ta'y Trichogramma 'no gipanghatag para sa atong mga mang-uuma sa mais para sa pagsugpo sa corn borer (One of our subsidy programs comes in the form of training. We have profiles of our farmers then we will train them on corn farming technologies. That's one thing because we have a BioCon laboratory that can help in fighting corn borer. We have been giving out Trichogramma to our corn farmers to help them control corn borers)," Haspe said. As of June 2022, there are over 5, 534 corn farmers in Davao City; this number is expected to rise in the coming months. CIO
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