Mindanao TImes, April 2, 2020

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Lifestyle:

Opinion: Some measures are getting extreme

Life Goals, study, work, life in Australia

BY VIC N. SUMALINOG

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VOL. 74

NO. 091

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

DAVAO CITY - PHILIPPINES

16 PAGES

P10.00

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MOTORCYCLE cops from the Traffic Group of the Davao City Police Office put packaging tapes to ensure that commuters observe physical distancing while riding public utility vehicles. BING GONZALES

Eateries shuttered • Owners violated social distancing rule: City Hall BY WARREN ELIJAH E. VALDEZ AND SAMANTHA T. BURGOS

AT LEAST five eateries were shuttered on Monday for violating the physical distancing protocol imposed by the city government as part of the community quarantine. In an interview with customers to dine inside mented by the city governDavao City Disaster Ra- their places. ment during this period dio, Mayor Sara Duterte Even with the strict of community quarantine, said these eateries allowed guidelines being imple- some eateries and food

stalls are still allowed to operate as long as they sell food on a take-out basis. “When I saw it, I was disappointed because of course, (you) already had the chance to continue your

Coronavirus sidelines 8 health workers in Davao Region: DOH BY SAMANTHA T. BURGOS

EIGHT health workers have so far been temporarily sidelined from the battle to contain COVID-19 after testing positive for the virus. In a live press confer-

ence on Tuesday, DOH XI regional director Dr. Annabelle Yumang said that three nurses and five doctors have been contaminated by the disease. But Dr. Leopoldo Vega,

Southern Philippines Medi- tocols while responding to cal Center (SPMC) chief of a patient in the emergency hospitals, said that the three room. So far, they are only nurses are not from SPMC. showing mild symptoms. A doctor and another “The protocol is that nurse in SPMC were in- when you try to resuscitate fected when they broke pro- ( / CORONAVIRUS / 5)

w w w. m i n d a n a o t i m e s . c o m . p h

Mindanao Times

business while others were already ordered to close. But you just violated the conditions set for you to open,” Mayor Duterte said. She said these eateries were allowed to continue to

serve mainly city government workers who could not work from home. “We have created an inspection team who will roam around (the establish( / EATERIES / 5)

Davaoeños warned against discriminating frontliners MAYOR Sara Duterte has For example, one inwarned people that they cident involved a patient would be arrested if they dousing water on one discriminate and assault healthcare staff. Another healthcare workers. incident involved verbal In an interview with abuse where the frontlinDavao City Disaster Ra- ers were yelled at and dio, she said that they called as “virus.” received reports of harass“These healthworkers ments and discrimination are our frontliners who are against the frontliners. ( / DAVAOEÑOS / 5)

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News

MINDANAO TIMES

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

SARA:

ECQ inevitable at his point BY SAMANTHA T. BURGOS AND WARREN ELIJAH E. VALDEZ

AS DAVAO City is preparing to undergo an enhanced community quarantine, the local government released some of the guidelines to take the sting out of the more stricter rules. In her statement, May- since they are not satisfied need to tighten up our conor Sara Duterte said the with the behavior of the trol measures to mitigate epidemiologist and infec- community in following the the spread of the virus,” tious disease doctors have safety measures. she said. recommended the ECQ “The doctors said we During the ECQ, mass

transportation in the city will be suspended. No public utility jeepney or any other mass transportation will be allowed to operate. Few establishments will remain open as long as they are under the disaster,

social services, health and security sectors. Private sectors that are allowed to operate include groceries, supermarkets, wet markets/palengkes, food commissaries, food processing and manu-

facturing, food delivery services, wholesale food stores, convenience stores, sari-sari stores, hospitals, medical laboratories, pharmacies, drugstores, doctors and dentist clinics, other ( / ECQ / 15)

Mayor to go after creators of memes using her image BY WARREN ELIJAH E. VALDEZ

A SECURITY guard of a pharmacy along Porras Street, Poblacion hands out priority numbers to waiting customers. Establishments have been limiting the number of customers they allow inside to practice social distancing. BING GONZALES

SPMC gets additional DCWD P5,000 kits from RITM advisory BY SAMANTHA T. BURGOS

THE SOUTHERN Philippines Medical Center has acquired 5,000 test kits from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) last week. SPMC chief Leopoldo Vega said that they now perform an average of 60 to 65 tests a day, but they can ramp it up to 70 to 80 tests. SPMC, being a subnational laboratory to independently test and validate

swab samples from suspected COVID-19 cases, can now release the confirmatory results within 24 to 48 hours. “That is why we have been increasing our positive cases already because we can now validate and confirm tests samples. As we are capable of doing it, test results from suspected cases can now be released (

/ SPMC / 15)

DAVAO City Water District advises the public that its Matina office and Bajada sub-office are closed on April 9 and 10, 2020 in observance of the Holy Week. Their operations will resume on April 13, 2020 with office schedule from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM to accept New Service Connection Application and Reconnection of Water Service requests and water bill payments only.

mizing the possibility of the people to go out and go to the public markets. Trisibots are modified pedicabs typically using a Kobuta marine engine. But they are banned by the Land Transportation Office as the engine was not designed for road use. “They will put fish (and other products) and then

they will call out (customers) just like the balut (vendors). If the balut vendors are using a tricycle, the vendors on this will be using trisibots,” she said. “They will be a big help in declogging our public markets,” Duterte added. However, the trisibot operators could not sell

proliferating around. “These are the social media cards which contain a picture of me with a quote that I have (allegedly) said,” she said, pointing out that some of these memes are no longer appropriate. She said she is already discussing it with her lawyer on the possible legal actions to take against their creators and those who share them. Previously, Duterte already disowned the voice ( / MAYOR / 15)

3 confirmed cases in Mati; no local transmission yet BY RHODA GRACE B. SARON

DESPITE the three confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection in the City of Mati, health authorities said on Tuesday that they still have not monitored any local transmission of the disease. As of March 30, the city has recorded 17 persons under investigations (PUIs), where four have

Trisibots to help get crowds away from city’s wet markets THE LOCAL government is planning to bring back the trisibot to roam around barangays to sell essential products once the city will be placed under the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), an official said. Mayor Sara Duterte said that they intend to bring it back during the ECQ as it will help in mini-

THE CITY government is looking for means to go after some memes of Mayor Sara Duterte being posted on social media that are peddling false information. “We are currently discussing on what we are going to do with these fake ‘memes’ proliferating (around social media),” she said during her interview with the Davao City Disaster Radio. Although this is not related to the COVID-19, she said there are already quite a number of these memes

anything else other than basic food commodities. It is also one way to help those daily wage earners whose income were severely disrupted by the coronavirus. They also need to comply with the requirements demanded from rolling stores. “[J]ust like our strict requirements to the rolling ( / TRISIBOTS / 15)

already been cleared. There were also 109 persons under monitoring as of 12 noon of March 30. Dr. Ben Hur Catbagan Jr., Mati's Incident Management Command head, said on Tuesday that all PUIs are monitored and in stable condition. While all PUMs are still not showing any symptoms. (

The PUIs are set to be tested this week. Catbagan said the two patients are still in recovering in the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City. The third case is a female patient who underwent home quarantine for two weeks. She showed flu/ 3 CONFIRMED / 5)

Customs donate PPE, equipment to SPMC THE BUREAU of Customs (BOC)-Davao donated medical equipment to the Southern Philippine Medical Center (SPMC). In a press statement released by BOC-Davao on Tuesday, the bureau said that the donation to SPMC was a response to address the needs of the hospital amid its fight against COVID-19. Recent reports bared

that the hospital is also currently facing a medical crisis in sustaining adequate equipment needed in treating patients, particularly the scarcity of personal protective equipment (PPEs) for the medical frontliners. “Being the central care unit of Davao Region and the largest government hospital in Mindanao, this donation will boost their pa(

/ CUSTOMS / 5)


THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

National

MINDANAO TIMES

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Pinoys infected with virus abroad now at 368: DFA

MANILA – A total of 368 Filipinos abroad has so far been infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. Of this number, at least "The DFA clarifies "Furthermore, upon 117 have recovered and some changes in the con- further verification, one been discharged while 242 firmed cases and deaths in case reported in the Ameriare still undergoing treat- the European and American can region was withdrawn, ment. regions. The reported death thereby reducing the numThe death toll, on the yesterday in the European ber of countries reporting other hand, has reached region was that of a former in that region to one," he nine: six were recorded Filipino (not a dual citizen), added. in Europe, one in the Asia and therefore based on offiAccording to the latest Pacific region, one each in cial documentation was not data from the World Health the Middle East, and in the included in today’s tally," Organization, there are a Americas. he said. total of 693,224 Covid-19 In a statement, DFA He pointed out that cases globally. Assistant Secretary Ed- the total number of deaths In the Philippines, the uardo Menez clarified some remains the same at nine number of confirmed Covdiscrepancies in the info- since there was one re- id-19 cases has already graphics the DFA released ported Filipino death in the reached 2,084 as of March on Monday. Americas. 31. (PNA)

Lorenzana tests negative for Covid-19 MANILA – Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced late Tuesday that he has tested negative for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). "Guys, my test came out today (Tuesday). I am negative of the (Covid-19). On the advice (of) the doctor, I will complete my quarantine until April 6," Lorenzana said in a message to reporters. His test results came out early morning on the same day. On March 27, Lorenzana began his self-quarantine after Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Felimon T. Santos, tested positive for the virus on (

/ LORENZANA / 15)

18M poor families to get emergency subsidy in April

M A N I L A – A r o u n d of at least PHP5,000 to 18 million low-income a maximum subsidy of households affected by the PHP8,000 per month for coronavirus disease 2019 two months (April and (Covid-19) pandemic in May) for basic food, medithe country will receive cine, and other essentials,” the two-time emergency it said. subsidy from the national The PCOO said benefigovernment starting April, ciaries would be provided a the Presidential Communi- “social amelioration card,” cations Operations Office a form distributed by vil(PCOO) announced on lage officials which conTuesday. tains the family profile for Each eligible family them to get access to the will get government as- government’s social amesistance whether in cash or lioration programs. in kind from various social It added that the soamelioration packages un- cial amelioration card also der the emergency subsidy serves as a “validation tool” program (ESP), the PCOO to determine the eligible said in a press statement. families and a “monitor“(There will be) cash or ing tool” to account for the non-cash subsidy to 18-mil- services received by them. Ad (8x5.5in).pdf 1 1/29/2020 3:06:14 PM “The Emergency Sublion low-income household beneficiaries in the amount sidy shall be distributed

Ilocos Norte reports 2 Covid-19 cases LAOAG CITY — A cop and a truck helper from the province tested positive for Covid-19 on Tuesday, the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center confirmed. The hospital's report said the 42-year-old male from Barangay Sungadan, Paoay, Ilocos Norte has no travel history while the 49-year old male from Barangay Magnuang, Batac City traveled to Metro Manila several times. Both were admitted at the said hospital and in stable condition. More stringent measures are being undertaken as authorities urge everyone to stay home and go out only when necessary. “We have already quarantined those who have been in contact with the two Covid-19 patients and we are in close contact with the Department of Health, mayors, city/municipal health officers, and

barangay captains to further contact trace these patients,” said Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc in a public statement released on Tuesday evening. Manotoc has also ordered a lockdown of the barangays where the patients reside. “May we all prioritize the common good and protect and provide for each other. We do not know the duration or severity of this calamity but we do know our actions will affect the outcome,” he said. Meanwhile, the Bangui District Hospital announced on Tuesday the hospital's temporary closure due to a suspected Covid-19 patient who went to the hospital for treatment but opted not to reveal his true condition. As a result, at least four doctors and eight hospital workers need to undergo selfquarantine. (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY --- The three positive coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients in Albay province have refused to be brought to the designated Covid-19 referral facility here and opted to remain on self-quarantine in their respective homes. Early Tuesday, the Albay Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) said the three persons tested positive for Covid-19 and currently undergoing self-quarantine would be taken for admission to the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hos-

pital (BRTTH) quarantine facility here. Albay IATF Chairman, Governor Al Francis Bichara, in a phone interview, said this would ensure that the patients would be closely monitored and given the necessary treatment until their condition improves. “I already directed Dr. Antonio Ludovice, provincial health office chief, to coordinate and ask the patient and their family if they are willing to be taken to the quarantine facility for close medical observation of

Covid symptoms,” Bichara said. But in a separate interview, Ludovice said the three patients who are currently about to complete their 14-day mandatory selfquarantine, resisted the proposal, preferring to remain in their homes where they feel more comfortable. The provincial Covid-19 tracker indicates that Albay has three confirmed cases, two patients under investigation, and 25,581 persons under monitoring. (PNA)

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/ 18M POOR / 15)

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Covid-19 patients in Albay insist on home-quarantine

through any of the social amelioration programs so long as the total amount from various social amelioration programs does not exceed the prescribed thresholds,” the PCOO said. The amount of emergency subsidy a poor family can get depends on the minimum wage levels per region. Low-income households from Metro Manila will receive PHP5,000 each, while those from Central Luzon and Calabarzon will get PHP6,500 each, the PCOO said. Around PHP6,000 subsidy will be given to each poor family from Western Visayas, Central Visayas,

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4

Business

MINDANAO TIMES

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

MINDANAO Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol (center) discusses the “Quick Turn-Around” Plan for Rice Production to North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco (beside Sec. Piñol) and other provincial officials. The “Quick Turn-Around Plan” for the Rice Industry of Mindanao was crafted in view of the projected tight supply of rice in the country resulting from the announced intentions of major exporting countries to stop or limit their exports as a result of the 2019 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

Rice program eyed to sustain production BY NICOLE BURLAS

THE MINDANAO Development Authority (MinDA), in coordination with the North Cotabato government, will launch a program designed to provide sustainable rice supply in Mindanao. In a press statement, pansion, is aimed at ex- are made to regenerate for the agency said the two panding rice production a shorter second cropping. components of the “Quick to 300,000 hectares with a “The only downside to Turn-Around” program third devoted to ratooning, this technology for rice (ra– ratooning and farm ex- a mechanism where plants tooning) is that the harvest is usually only 1/3 of the harvest of the normal planting process while the upside is that there is a Quick Turn-Around because there ( / RICE / 14)

CORPORATE NEWS

NGCP donates P1-B to gov’t

IN SUPPORT of President Rodrigo Duterte and the national government’s efforts to combat the outbreak of COVID-19 in the Philippines, grid operator and transmission service provider NGCP will be donating PhP 1 BILLION to aid medical frontliners. In a letter to the President, NGCP declared its ( / NGCP / 14)

Bank helps clients adapt to ‘new normal’ KEEPING banking channels open. BDO ATMs and Cash Accept Machines are open for clients to withdraw and deposit money, and even pay bills. Ever since the enhanced community quarantine was implemented in Luzon to curb the spread of the ( / BANK / 14)

Big retailers following price freeze order, say

THE REGIONAL office of the Department of Trade and Industry has not found a violator to the price freeze order among big retailers. DTI Regional Director

Maria Belinda Ambi said last week that based on the monitoring of the agency, all big retailers followed the order. On its implication, Ambi said, “I think ang

message nga ginapaabot ana is atong mga establishments, they are practicing social responsibility in this time na kinahanglan nato magtinabangay.” ( / BIG / 15)

SEC continues online company Bids for 35-day registration amid quarantine T-bill rejected MANILA -- The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) continues to accept applications for registration of corporations and partnerships online, with at least 2,500 applications processed while Luzon and other regions undergo enhanced community quarantine to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. The SEC Company Registration System (CRS) has remained online since the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases implemented the

month-long quarantine over Metro Manila and eventually the entire Luzon effective March 15. The CRS allows for the full automation and online pre-processing of the registration of corporations and partnerships, as well as licensing of foreign corporations. To register online, an applicant may log onto https:// crs.sec.gov.ph/. In the system, the applicant can verify its proposed company name, generate its articles of incorporation, bylaws and other company registration docu-

ments, and upload all required documents for processing, review, and approval. However, the verification of payment and generation of Certificate of Incorporation or Certificate of Filing of Articles of Partnership may be made and released by the SEC Company Registration and Monitoring Department (CRMD) only after the enhanced community quarantine has been lifted because of the limitations in the mobility of individuals and operations of establishments.

(

/ SEC / 14)

MANILA – Bids for the 35day Treasury bill, a tenor last issued nearly two decades ago, were fully rejected by the Bureau of the Treasury’s (BTr) auction committee on Tuesday due to the demand for high yield. Had the auction committee issued the paper, its

(

/ BIDS / 14)


MINDANAO TIMES

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

DAVAOEÑOS...

(from front page)

battling the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the city. You should give utmost respect to them because without them we will all be miserable,” she said. She said the police are instructed to arrest anyone who will violate any of the rules under the community quarantine. They are also told to book anyone who for verbal and physical abuse on frontliners.

CUSTOMS...

“There are people like that. You better watch out, or the police will arrest you. There are already many arrested individuals because of their irresponsible actions,” she said. She reminded the public that healthcare workers-doctors, nurses, medical technicians, nursing aides, and even security guards-must be treated with the utmost respect. By Samantha T. Burgos

(from page 2)

tient-care capacity making sure that all patients coming in are properly taken care of and accommodated,” the BOC-Davao said. A total of eight 40-foot container vans delivered various medical equipment on March 28 and another batch of three deliveries

3 CONFIRMED...

was done last March 29. Meanwhile, the remaining vans delivered gurneys, wheelchairs, bedside and operating tables, dialysis chairs, medical trolleys and crutches, pharmaceutical refrigerators, and sterilizers. By Warren Elijah E. Valdez

(from page 2)

like symptoms and underwent testing. However, her condition already improved even before the results came out. But as a protocol, the patient was transported to the Davao Regional Medical Center for further evaluation. The local government,

meanwhile, is rehabilitating the Milagrosa Retreat House in Pahamutang, Matiao to house the PUIs. The property is owned by the Archdiocese of Mati and is offered for free by Mati Bishop Abel Apigo. The renovation will be finished in 3-4 weeks. But there are other facilities in

EATERIES...

(from front page)

ments) to ensure that people are following the measures being implemented by our doctors on the ground,” Duterte said. Ambulant vendors allowed, however... Meanwhile, ambulant or warik-warik vendors will be allowed to work even during the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine. “As long as they will follow the protocols, they will be allowed to work,” Duterte said on Tuesday. They will help decongest the public markets as they can help deliver food and other goods from household to household. However, she said these ambulant vendors must sell basic commodities, such as rice, meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits. “This will also help these warik-warik vendors to have a work and cope with their income loss,” she said. However, street food vendors will not be allowed

to operate. “You do not go to the public market to buy fishballs or kwek-kweks. They are not allowed to work,” she said. Duterte bared that three rolling trucks are expected to start operating within the week. These rolling trucks will serve as a mobile wet market that will also sell those products in the market. The rolling trucks were proposed by a group of businessmen so that people won’t be forced to risk their health in the crowded wet markets. But Duterte said that the rolling markets should also follow the strict protocols on social distancing and proper hygiene. Any violation of the agreement will result in the revocation of their permit. Finally. sari-sari (sundry) stores will also be allowed to operate but only before the curfew hours, which starts from nine o’clock in the evening.

the City of Mati that will also be used, pending approval by the local government and the Department of Education. The Mati Incident

Management Command had also submitted its sixthmonth COVID-19 contingency plan to Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat for review.

CORONAVIRUS...

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(from front page)

a person in the emergency room--because they resuscitated a patient in the emergency room--they did not put on their necessary PPEs (personal protective equipment),” he said. “Their mindset at that time is that they thought the patient has no COVID-19. But we changed that mindset already. All people who come around should be seen as a positive patient even without the test results. This is to ensure that they wear their proper PPEs,” he added. The DOH also said that some health workers are now being assessed for COVID-19. He also said that they are set to test 50 frontliners a day to make sure that they are not handicapped with the disease. “This will also give them the confidence to work,” he said. Meanwhile, Vega said patients who have pneumonia must be referred immediately to SPMC regardless if they are positive or not. “Refer patients with pneumonia to SPMC because it is part of the severe acute respiratory infection, which can also be a symptom of the disease,” he said. If the patient tested negative, then they will be returned to the private hospital with a certification

stamping it with a nonCOVID-19 patient mark. Challenges Meanwhile, health officials admitted that contact tracing is far from being accomplished. “We are not even halfway through,” Dr. Cleo Fe Tabada, DOH XI medical officer of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance unit said during a live press conference on Tuesday. She said that contact tracing takes a lot of effort and time, which makes it difficult since they are severely understaffed and have a wide area of coverage. However, the records kept by the different sectors have helped pinpoint the whereabouts of patients. They are particularly paying attention to those who attended the cockfight derby in Matina New Galleria before the city-wide quarantine on March 15. She also credited the timely announcement to limit movements in Davao City to contain the damage. “We are hoping people to stay at home and not go outside anywhere. This way we track all people in the trace-list. We will be able to quarantine them or isolate, and mainly, assess,” she said.


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MINDANAO TIMES

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

Some measures are getting extreme

One man’s vision THE WORLD has produced many great men, men who had the ability to see the future with great wisdom and care. This month, Mindanao Times would like to honor its founder, Atty. Guillermo E, Torres, a great man who quietly helped build the city from the ruins of World War II, providing precious human resources through the years. We take the liberty of printing excerpts of the book One Man’s Vision Guillermo E. Torres by former Mindanao Times publisher, the late Josefina C. San Pedro and University of Mindanao Senior Vice President Ronnie V. Amarado. “World War II had EDITORIAL just ended. In Davao City, there was great joy all around, as the residents who had left for evacuation centers during the war started filtering back to their homes or what was left of them. The victorious American forces were flooding the city with goodwill and chocolates, butter, cheese, corned beef and pork luncheon meat, canned milk, even canned egg powder, and all the good food the people had missed during the four years of harsh and stringent conditions under the Japanese Occupation. “A group of Filipinos who had worked under the Laurel government was systematically herded and brought in for questioning. Among them were young lawyers Guillermo E. Torres of Batangas, Leopoldo M. Abellera of Ilocano heritage and Amado A. Munda, a barrister of Pangasinan roots. All had worked briefly with Gen. Paulino Santos, Commissioner for Mindanao and Sulu during the Japanese Occupation. “Though anxious about their situation, the three enjoyed their incarceration in the old PC barracks. The Americans did not act like jailers. They were free to tell jokes, laugh and talk to one another and the other prisoners, regaling each with their life stories and their plans for life once they were free. “It was a day of joy for their families when at last they were released. No witnesses had come forward to testify and to prove that they had done anything inimical to the country. On the contrary, there were people who testified to their favor. In fact, it turned out that they had even helped many of their countrymen in their work in the Mindanao and Sulu Commission. “The two lawyers put up their own law offices and the barrister left for Manila with his wife, the former Rosa A. Santos,

Correspondents:

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a UP law graduate and the eldest daughter of Gen. Paulino Santos, to prepare for the bar examinations. “Bering Torres established his law and accounting office at the family residence at the corner of Claveria and Rizal Streets. He immediately noticed the lack of a “real” community newspaper in the city. Davao City was then in the process of reestablishing the government and rebuilding its infrastructures. He realized the urgent need for a vehicle of information that could convey to the community what was happening around them, like who their government officials were at the time, and where to go for assistance in time of need. “In those days, the people depended on the radio for news and other information. The national newspapers, if they came, were several days late. After the liberation of the city by the combined Filipino American forcers, the Philippine Civil Affairs Unit (PICAU) No. 29 of the 24th Division of the US Army, assumed control of all Japanese owned properties including the printing press. “With some friends, among them Don Pedro Lat and Mr. Roman Tesoro, both fellow Batangeños, Bering formed a corporation and bought the printing press, including the Davao Times from the PICAU. It was renamed the Mindanao Times . It was registered at the Post Office in April 1946, with Bering as its first editor, the tabloid-sized paper carried news and news features in English, Cebuano, Tagalog and Spanish. Now, 74 years later, Mindanao Times forges ahead boldly, bearing the ideals its founders – to be vigilant at all times – well into the new age.”

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NANCY MARTINEZ LYNETTE VIDA

Philippine Press Institute member

THE PLACING of the entire country in a health emergency situation as a result of the CoViD 19 pandemic is revealing a lot of things in the character of the Filipinos. Among the ordinary citizens, the emergency situation shows quite clearly the best in us --our resilience, our courage and determination to survive in the midst of this most terrible crisis that sweeps the nation. The emergency is manifesting our spirit of responsibility towards our own fellowmen. Many among us are rising to the situation, pooling resources to help respond to the needs of those who are extremely and adversely affected by the crisis. We work hand-in-hand with the government to address the situation. We have men and women who are giving their best talents and skills out there in the front lines to treat those already infected – our health professionals like doctors, nurses, medical technologists, nursing aides, pharmacists, hospital staff, ambulance men, employees of pharmaceutical firms, etc. There are also those among us who brave the rains and heat of the sun, and the cold or humid nights to implement measures resorted to by the government in order to prevent the massive spread of the virus. However, the same crisis also manifests the undesirable nature of some among us. There are those who take advantage of the extreme needs of the less fortunate by enhancing their businesses – hoarding supplies and food items and jacking up costs when disposing them to the needy public. The crisis is also a convenient reason for some to discriminate against their fellow Filipinos who are confirmed or even merely rumored to have contracted the deadly disease. They evade them (the CoViD victims – confirmed or not) like the plague itself. As for our local government leaders the CoViD emergency is also bringing out the most innovative among them. That is why we have heard of mayors having done certain measures considered most beneficial to their constituents now becoming the benchmark for others. Nevertheless, there are also local government executives who, in their efforts to make their cities, and towns or provinces maintain their status of CoViD-freedom level, are taking up extreme measures that seem to further the misery of people both from their own localities and from their neighboring towns, cities or provinces. In Davao City for example, we believe Mayor Inday Sara has given her imprimatur on the measure adopted by barangay councils of some of the city’s more developed areas and centers of commerce like Calinan and Toril or Tibungco and Lasang. We have heard that starting next week barangays like Calinan and Toril are scheduling the marketing days of people residing thereat or in the nearby villages buying their household needs in the earlier-mentioned areas’ markets. In Calinan, the neighboring barangays and sitios are grouped into clusters and assigned a day starting next week to do their marketing. The purpose of the measure is to ensure that market goers can easily be made to comply with the social distancing order to prevent transfer of the virus from one who may be infected to another. Another example of this kind of situation and could be considered extreme, is the lockdown imposed by a municipality in Bulacan Province. The municipal mayor has ordered all its borders closed from its neighbors and for its residents wanting to go out of their town for whatever purpose. The chief executive of the town has the four ingress and egress to and from inside closed; all because the mayor is afraid that the CoViD will gain entry to the municipality that would trigger the epidemic among his constituents. The mayor of the said town does not even allow vehicles transporting food and other related items to its neighboring municipalities or cities claiming that these could be bearing risk of carrying the virus. And the worst thing that has happened because of this measure by the Bulacan town mayor is that of two siblings whose houses are near each other but are located at the boundaries of the LGU concerned and that of a neighboring city. The

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/ ROUGH CUTS / 14)


MINDANAO TIMES

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

Nurses BERN (MindaNews) – I am conflicted with the recent news items saying that German and American BY BRADY EVIOTA hospitals and healthcare recruitment sites are urgently hiring nurses to add to their medical workforce. Because the implications are clear: in a period of national medical emergency like now, the continued flow of nurses out of the Philippines can be fatal to the country. In such a critical period as now, the manpower drain will hugely contribute to the life-and-death situation that the Philippines now faces. This site: RNstaff.com claims there are openings in all 50 US states, and “Urgent Need” rates are being offered for medical surgery, ICU, and ambulatory registered nurses. A Filipino congressman, meanwhile, has urged the labor department to halt overseas deployment of Filipino nurses temporarily, in reaction to a news item that Germany was sending a plane to Manila to carry at least 75 intensive care unit nurses to take care of German COVID-19 patients. The US and Germany cannot be faulted for hiring new nurses to their countries. They have been longterm employers for Filipinas looking for better work conditions and higher incomes. What these western powers are at fault, however, is taking much-needed medical professionals from the home country during this crisis period. It is like the proverbial taking food away from the hungry hand. I am not the only one in conflict on this issue. Our Filipino nurses are. Jocelyn Andamo, the secretary general of the Filipino Nurses United, told ANC today that contrary to popular thought, not all Filipino nurses want to work abroad. Many choose not to leave their families and to serve their country. What Jocelyn is asking the government is just compensation for the local nurses, and – for this emergency – extra benefits such as hazard pay. And also the requisite PPE, because they will avoid the unnecessary contamination and likely deaths of our nurses. And may I also add: for our people to give human and compassionate treatment for our nurse frontliners, who are now being ostracized out of ignorance over COVID-19. Our nurses diligently perform protocol to protect themselves and others from being infected. Why are they being shunned or cast out of their rented homes as irresponsible carriers of the disease? What ungrateful treatment for the sacrifices that our nurses (and our doctors and other medical frontliners, for that matter) do every day! But now to go back to my question: should the Philippines still allow our nurses to leave? The timing is critical and the answer crucial. Let me offer a compromise, based on my layman terms: Why not allow those nurses already with guaranteed contracts and employment to leave? They have already made the choice to seek greener pastures, and even if they have doubts now, they have invested so much in following their decision. If they opt out now from their contract, then that should be voluntary. But those nurses on confirmed agreements such as TripleWin between the Philippines and Germany should be allowed to leave, if the visa or other restrictions are now being let up. But let there be no more new hirings for the period of this pandemic. The Philippines is already losing too many doctors and nurses in the early phase of this pandemic and the country needs its workforce. Giving just compensation and extra benefits, along with providing them the requisite PPEs, may be enough to make our nurses stay at this critical period. [Brady Eviota wrote and edited for the now defunct Media Mindanao News Service in Davao City and also for SunStar Cagayan de Oro. He is from Surigao City and now lives in Bern, the Swiss capital located near the Bernese Alps.]

ALPSIDE DOWNED

7

Fake cures, risky rumours: virus misinformation hits home FROM being duped into taking poisonVipin Nijhawan from the Toy Associaous “cures”, to watching businesses tion of India. crumble and avoiding life-saving mediThe World Health Organization has BY KATIE FORSTER WITH cation, people are suffering devastating said the virus does not last long on inaniUZAIR RIZVI IN NEW DELHI real-world impacts of a deluge of online mate surfaces, so it is unlikely imported virus misinformation. goods would remain infectious even if As the new coronavirus that has killed more than contaminated. 20,000 people causes markets to crash and sets scientists - Heart meds scrambling for a solution, rumours and false claims are The rapid spread of information online means that fuelling confusion and deepening the economic misery. when scientists discuss as-yet unproven theories, anxious The effects can be tragic -- in Iran, one of the hardest- patients can take unnecessary risks. hit countries, more than 210 people died from drinking Confusion has been sparked by letters and theoretitoxic alcohol after claims circulated online that it could cal papers published in scientific journals about whether treat or ward off COVID-19, the official Irna news agency some types of heart medication can raise the chance of reported. developing a serious form of COVID-19. Dangerous fake cures debunked by AFP include conThis has prompted health authorities across Europe suming volcanic ash and fighting infection with UV lamps and America to advise heart patients -- already more ator chlorine disinfectants, which health authorities say can risk for the disease -- to continue taking their drugs. harm the body if used incorrectly. Carolyn Thomas, who runs a blog for women living Another remedy that “kills the coronavirus”, according with heart disease, said dozens of her readers had conto misleading social media posts, is drinking silver particles tacted her for advice after seeing tweets warning about in liquid, known as colloidal silver. ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers. “I am making colloidal silver now. I have asthma and “Until I get in to see my own cardiologist, I’m still it really works... worried/stressed over the virus. Does this taking my own drugs, even as I wonder if they are increashelp if I take a teaspoon a day. New to this...” said a post ing my own vulnerability to catching the virus,” Thomas, by a user named Michelle in a public Facebook group, who is self-isolating at home in Canada, told AFP. alongside a photo of a jar of water with a metal rod in it. “I’m afraid to take them, yet I’m afraid to stop,” she The side effects of taking colloidal silver can include said. a bluish-grey skin discoloration and poor absorption of Professor Garry Jennings, chief medical advisor for some medicines including antibiotics, according to the US Australia’s Heart Foundation, said the theoretical papers National Institutes of Health. were “based on a number of factors which are all disBut this has not put some people off. An Australian puted” and warned that if patients stopped taking their man who said he regularly buys the concoction told AFP medication there could be an upshot in heart attacks and it had “sold out in my town ... but before the virus, I could deaths. always get some”. “In the absence of any other evidence that it’s actually Cocaine and bleach-like solutions are also among the happening, and with the knowledge that these drugs are risky fake cures touted online. “No, cocaine does NOT beneficial... it’s not a good idea to stop,” he said. protect against #COVID-19,” the French government And a man died in the US from taking a form of tweeted in response. chloroquine -- hailed by President Donald Trump as a Businesses hit hard potential “gift from God” remedy” -- after he took a form As panic buying leaves supermarket shelves empty of the drug his wife had used to treat her pet fish. around the world, some Indian traders and farmers have The woman told NBC News: “I saw it sitting on the had the opposite problem -- people shunning their products back shelf and thought, ‘Hey, isn’t that the stuff they’re due to false information. talking about on TV?’” Retailers in Delhi told AFP they had stocked up on Banner Health, a non-profit health care provider based Chinese-made goods such as toy guns, wigs and other col- in Phoenix, said on its website that “a man has died and ourful accessories ahead of Holi festival earlier this month. his wife is under critical care after the couple, both in But “misinformation about Chinese products -- that their 60s, ingested chloroquine phosphate, an additive they might transmit coronavirus -- caused a downfall in commonly used at aquariums to clean fish tanks.” the sales of Holi goods. We witnessed a reduction in sales kaf/je/mtp of around 40 percent compared to previous year”, said © Agence France-Presse

ANALYSIS

Eat, Love, and Pray NAAWAN, Misamis Oriental (MinHave they organized health daNews) – Fifteen days has passed brigades at the barangay level since the lockdown, past COVID-19 throughout the archipelago to visit WILLIAM R. ADAN, PH.D. incubation period, it is presumed that every household and identify and by this time those infected (even without being tested rescue victims? positive) would already show symptoms of the infecThis is a crucial activity attended to the lockdown tion, symptoms like those sick of the FLU, bronchitis to stop the spread of the virus. or pneumonia, and should now be attended by health The next 15 days is the observation period for authorities and treated accordingly in appropriate health the next level of infection. If we are extra efficient in facilities. monitoring enemy movement from day 1 after the first Those infected but showed no symptoms (asymp- 15 days, then we have a great chance of defeating the tomatic), on the other hand, are presumed to have fully worst enemy that have reached our soil in all history. recovered, healed by the medicine in their own body – Boost your immune system. The fight is far from by their healthy immune system. They have destroyed over. the corona in their body. They no longer can infect. We Stay healthy. Stay home. Eat, love and pray. no longer have to worry for them. (MindaViews is the opinion section of MindaNews. We are concerned with corona victims who are now William R. Adan, Ph.D., is retired professor and showing symptoms of infection. They are the spreaders. former chancellor of Mindanao State University at Were health authorities prepared for this? Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines.)

TURNING POINT


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MINDANAO TIMES THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

Life Goals, study, work, life in Australia

BLESSING on March 8, 2020

SHORTLY before any restrictions to travel abroad and around the country were placed, we met Kim Molina, a graduate of Bachelor of Business in Accounting and has a Diploma of Marketing Certificate 3 and 4 in Business Administration. It was the blessing of the office of Life Goals Consultants on March 08, 2020 at Park Avenue, Corner JP Laurel Avenue. .rev. Fr. Haniel Taganas performed the blessing of the office. According to the team who organized Life Goals Consultants, Australia has become one of the top countries of choice for international studies. It has seen a drastic growth from 150,000 enrolments in 2000 to 600,000 enrolments in 2010. Australia has continuously experienced steady growth and in 2018has had over 800,000 enrolments. Life Goals Consultants helps promote, engage and oversee genuine overseas students to reputable education providers. It was established by well-experienced education officers in 2018 and has since then been assessing and assisting prospective international students to study with the most suitable education providers. LGC primarily assesses professionals and paraprofessionals who want to develop and update their skills and add value to their academic credentials which augment their

career advancement and business development goals. Qualified education counsellors analyze prospective students’ background and circumstances to effectively assist students to choose the finest education provider in Australia, offering these services: Professional advice and assistance in course selection; Processing applications and enrolment in Australian education providers; Acquiring Overseas Student Health Cover; Preparation and Lodgement of visa applications, Follow up regarding existing application, airport Pickup and Providing assistance in securing accommodation. Officers are Kim Molina and Issandra Molina, an Australian Registered Nurse. Team members who take charge of the Pramatta Office in New South Wales are Jjessa Marie Blanco and Ivory Joy Oandasan. At the Davao office is Adrian Vic Molina. We asked Kim about her thoughts on the present situation we are facing here in Davao City and here is what she says: “The COVID 19 Pandemic has claimed many lives and caused so much uncertainty, but we should not panic and should be a part of the solution by following the government’s directive. This global problem can be addressed locally by implementing measures that would improve the health and well-being of our community.”

KIM Molina and Dr Camille Monforte

KIM MOLINA

KIM with dr. Ismael Mahani

MEMBERS of the team Lifegoals


MINDANAO TIMES THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

G

OVERNMENT has never stopped reminding us to keep ourselves safe inside our domicile to prevent getting infected - or worse, becoming carriers - of the covid-19 virus. While some people have been very obedient from the start, there are still others who are just stubborn, giving the usual we-need-to-buy-groceries plea. However, with the growing number of app and Facebook-based delivery services, such as FoodPanda and GrabFood, there’s no excuse anymore for us not stay at home. Local companies have, such as NCCC’s Groce-ring, have addressed the Dabawenyos’ concern for convenient

and safe delivery of household provision. This homegrown brand starts its door-to-door delivery on April 1. Simply, call the branch nearest you: Downtown area (via NCCC Buhangin) at 09094328254/ 2216222 local 1302;. North Davao area (via NCCC Panacan) at 09094439041; South Davao area (via NCCC Centerpoint) at 0909-0130966/ 297-5155 local 121. Minimum amount for delivery is PhP1,500 while delivery fee is for as low as PhP100 for 6 bags/boxes. Need fresh fruits and vegetables? There’s the app-based Palengke Boy, your virtual “tig-pamalangke” (includes LPG

13 9

FRESH vegetables can be safely delivered to Davao homes

SHOP AT HOME, SAVE LIVES delivery as well), and JJ Enterprises Fruits and Vegetables on Facebook. The latter requires only a kilo minimum order of vegetables and gives free delivery within 5 kilometer radius from F Torres Street.

For pick-up, delivery and errands, there’s the app-based Rider Dash (09266846005) and Facebook-based Cinderallabelle Delivery (09672501696), Kuya Juan (09213706111), and Errands Davao (09938692017). Like your «kasam-

FOOD delivery services, such as DavEx, get a lot of demand with the government’s call for citizens to stay at home

bahay», they can pick up food, buy grocery, parcels, medicine and other household needs, pick up/ deliver laundry, and even pay bills for you. Cinderallabelle services can be availed for as low as PhP99 while Kuya Juan and Errands Davao guarantee «no bill markups» for their clients. Other similar local delivery services include Facebook-based Oz Rider Express (09366680760) and Happy Mart Online Grocery Davao (09177049491), and appbased DavEx (0822339735). Considering the high demand of their services nowadays, make sure you follow their respective ordering procedures properly and increase your patience a little bit. With these bunch of delivery service available, we can now assure our families with regular availability of food and other provisions and INNOVATIVE homegrown app Palengke Boy makes going to market our safety in procuring them. more convenient and safe

IF YOU can't go to the grocery, NCCC's Groce-ring brings the grocery to you

Food delivery services, such as FoodPanda, are now king of Davao's empty streets

GRAB Food drivers practicing social distancing in picking up orders (photo: GrabFood Davao)


THURSDAY, APRIL 2020 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31,02, 2016

DAVAO GEVIN PAWNSHOP, INC. All pawned items that expired during the month All pawned items that expired during the of JANUARY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed on month MAY, 14, 2015 notberenewed reor beforeof MARCH 2020ifwill sold to theorpublic deemed on or before JULY 14, 2015 will be on MARCH 16, 2020 at 9:00a.m. at our pawnshop sold to the public on JULY 16, 2015 at 9:00 premises.

a.m. at our pawnshop premises.

Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang FIRST COLOR PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired Gipahibalo na prenda ang FIRST sa bulan sa ENEROang 2020.tanan Ang tanan ibaligya COLOR PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa 9:00 tanansa sa publiko karong MARSO 16, 2020 sa alas buntag. nga nag-expired sa bulan sa MAYO 2015.

DAVAO FIRST COLOR

Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko karong HULYO 16 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

PAWNSHOP

#47 Lao St., Toril, Davao City Tel. No. 295-2460

Anino Bldg., Prk 28 Villafuerte Street, Calinan, Davao City

Tel. No. 295-0751

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All pawned items that expired during the month of FEBRUARY 2020, must renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00am. Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang DAVAO GEVIN PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nagexpired sa bulan sa PEBRERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag. BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NOS.

CALINAN, Villafuerte (Main) APRIL 03, 2020

295-0751

MINTAL, Sampaguita St.

233-0712

APRIL 03, 2020

All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020, must renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00am. Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang GOLDVALUE PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES AUCTION DATE TEL. NOS. BAJADA MARCH 03, 2020 321-8705 (Beside NBI Office) BABAK SAMAL MARCH 24, 2020 301-4019 SAN PEDRO MARCH 6, 2020 227-6772 CABAGUIO MARCH 27, 2020 321-6223 TIBUNGCO MARCH 30, 2020 222-2494 (OPENING)

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020, must renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior to the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed, it will be sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00 a.m. Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang NARDING PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag. BRANCHES Lapu-lapu, Agdao Matina Crossing Tibungco

AUCTION DATE MARCH 10, 2020 MARCH 24, 2020 MARCH 17, 2020

TEL. NOS. (082) 222-3524 (082) 297-5786 (082) 296-4130

PANABO’S PAWNSHOP, INC. Panabo (Main) MARCH 16, 2020 (084) 628-8418 Panabo (Branch) MARCH 16, 2020 (084) 628-842

9GEMS Pawnshop Inc. Egger Bldg., Matina Crossing Davao City Tel. No. (082) 285-7069

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020, must be renewed or redeemed on or before MARCH 07, 2020. If not redeemed or renewed, it will be sold to the public on MARCH 10, 2020 at our pawnshop premises from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days before the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed, it will be sold to public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00 A.M. Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang DIAGOLD PAWNSHOP INC., magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan ENERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa na nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag. BRANCHES

All pawned items that expired during the month of DECEMBER 2019, if not renewed or redeemed on or before FEBRUARY 15, 2020 will be sold to the public on FEBRUARY 17, 2020 at 9:00a.m. at our pawnshop premises. Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang AL-JOS PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa DISYEMBRE 2019. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko karong PEBRERO 17, 2020 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

AUCTION DATE TEL. NOS.

Agdao MARCH 12, 2020 (Toy Bldg., Lapu-lapu St.)

284-9017

ROSEGOLD PAWNSHOP & JEWELLER Main – San Pedro Cor. Anda Street Davao City Tel. Nos. (082) 221-1477; (082) 221-0355; (082)222-5039 Accepts: Jewelry, Appliances, Watches, CellPhones and Any Valuable Items Highest Appraisal and Low Interest Rates at 3% Wholesaler and Retailers on all kinds of jewelry Rosegold Pawnshop Lapu-lapu Street, Agdao Davao City Tel. No. (082) 225-3637

Rosegold Pawnshop Ilustre St., Davao City (Fronting Limso Hospital) Tel. No. (082) 222-2104

Rosegold Pawnshop Ilustre Street, Davao City (Beside NCCC Hardwaremaxx) Tel. No. (082) 295-6199

Rosegold Pawnshop KM6 Crossing Buhangin, Div. Road, Davao City Tel. No. (082) 241-2355

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All Jewelry and other articles pawned at Rosegold Pawnshop San Pedro-Main, Rosegold Pawnshop Ilustre, Rosegold Pawnshop Bolton, Rosegold Pawnshop, Agdao and Rosegold Pawnshop Buhangin from SEPTEMBER 16, 2019 to OCTOBER 15, 2019. If not redeemed or renewed on or before MARCH 13, 2020 will be sold to the Public Auction on MARCH 16, 2020 at Rosegold Pawnshop San Pedro-Main from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

GOLDSTANDARD PAWNSHOP

San Pedro street, Davao City (Fronting Queen Bank) Tel. No. (082) 222-1561 ; (082) 321-0128 Accepts: Jewelry, Appliances, Watches, Cellphones and any valuable items Highest Appraisal and Low Interest Rates at 3% Wholesaler and Retailers on all Kinds of Jewelry

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE

All jewelry and other articles pawned at Goldstandard Pawnshop San Pedro, Goldstandard Pawnshop Ilustre from SEPTEMBER 16, 2019 to OCTOBER 15, 2019 if not redeemed or renewed on MARCH 13, 2020 will be sold to the Public Auction on MARCH 16, 2020 at our Pawnshop premises from 9:00am to 6:00pm.


THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items at METRO GOLDBRILL PAWNSHOP that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed on or before MARCH 13, 2020 will be sold to the public on MARCH 17, 2020 at 9:00 A.M. Ginapahibalo ang tanan na ang METRO GOLDBRILL PAWNSHOP magasubasta sa tanan nga nag-expired sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko karong MARSO 17, 2020 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag.

2nd Level, Gaisano Mall of Davao, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City Tel. No.: (082) 221-3355 • (082) 305-9496 2nd Level, SM Lanang Premier, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City Tel. No.: (082) 295-1505 • (082) 321-0525 email: jrosejewels@yahoo.com • www.jrosejewels.ph

PAWNS NOT REDEEMED/RENEWED WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS AFTER EXPIRY DATES WILL BE AUCTIONED ON MARCH 16, 2020 AT 10:00 A.M. AT THE RESPECTIVE PAWNSHOPS WHERE THE ITEMS WERE PAWNED.

DAVAO GOLDWIN PAWNSHOP, INC All pawned items of GOLDVISION PAWNSHOP, INC. that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020, if not renewed or redeemed it will be sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises at 9:00 a.m. Gipahibalo ang tanan na ang GOLDVISION PAWNSHOP, INC. maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag-expire sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanan prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag. BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

General Lao, Toril

MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH

Agton. Toril Buhangin Magallanes Tagum Saavedra, Toril Agdao

17, 2020 17, 2020 13, 2020 10, 2020 26, 2020 17, 2020 19, 2020

TEL. NO. 291-2406 291-2952 241-0223 224-3138 216-3425 291-1349 327-2348

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items that expired during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior to the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed, it will be sold to the public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00A.M. BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NO.

C.M. RECTO (MAIN) LANANG BRANCH 1 SAN PEDRO

MARCH 17, 2020 297-8081 MARCH 17, 2020 235-3473 MARCH 17, 2020 327-8832

GABBY’S BRILLIANT PAWNSHOP INC. / GABBY’S INFINITE PAWNSHOP INC. TEL NO.: 321-2185 / 234-4844

All pawned items that expire during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will be sold to public on its respective auction schedule and premises @9:00a.m. Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang GABBY’S INFINITE PAWNSHOP INC. magasubasta sa tanan nga nag expire sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag. BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NOS.

SAN PEDRO

MARCH 16, 2020

321-2185

ILUSTRE

MARCH 02, 2020

234-4844

MARCH 13, 2020

All pawned items from SEPTEMBER 2019 – OCTOBER 2019


THURSDAY, APRIL 31, 02,2016 2020 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST


THURSDAY, APRIL 2020 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31,02, 2016

Davao Ros-Ver Pawnshop, Incorporated

DAVAO 3 SURE PAWNSHOP, INC. NOTICE OF AUCTION SALE All pawned items that expire during the month of JANUARY 2020 must be renewed or redeemed two (2) days prior the Auction Schedule stated below. If not renewed or redeemed it will be sold to public on its respective auction schedule and premises @ 9:00 a.m. Gipahibalo ang tanan nga ang DAVAO 3 SURE PAWNSHOP, INC., maga-subasta sa tanan nga nag expire sa bulan sa ENERO 2020. Ang tanang prenda ibaligya sa publiko sa mga petsa nga nakabutang sa ubos, sa oras nga 9:00 sa buntag.

BRANCHES

AUCTION DATE

TEL. NOS

SAN PEDRO BUHANGIN

MARCH 10, 2020 MARCH 17, 2020

225-0033 241-1071

Ilustre St., Davao City Tel # 224-1204; 222-6086

AUCTION SALE! The DAVAO ROS-VER PAWNSHOP, INC. and NEW PAG-ASA PAWNSHOP will be having its JOINT AUCTION on all unredeemed pawned items left during the month of November 2019. The said items will be sold to the public at the following VENUE AND DATE. Gipahibalo ang publiko na ang DAVAO ROS-VER PAWNSHOP, INC. og ang NEW PAG-ASA PAWNSHOP; magsubasta sa tanang prenda nga naremata atong Nobyembre 2019. Ang tanang prenda dungan nga ibaligya sa publiko sa mga sumusunod nga dapit og petsa:

DAVAO CITY Digos Rizal Digos Luna Digos Magsaysay Tagum Rizal Tagum Roxas Tagum Pioneer Tagum Public Market Tagum Quezon Santo Tomas Nabunturan Davao Branches Mati Burgos Kidapawan Panabo

Tel.#234-2268/cell#09078756193 ask for Ram and Jen between 8am-5pm

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR LEASE for Motorcycle display area, appliance store, convenience store Baguio Proper, Baguio District

Call (0932) 372 7799

Digos Magsaysay March 6, 2020 At 9:30am

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Tagum Pioneer – GRAND AUCTION March 6-7, 2020 At 9:30am Santo Tomas March 11, 2020 At 9:30am Nabunturan March 14, 2020 At 9:30am Ilustre – GRAND AUCTION March 19-21, 2020 At 9:30am Mati Burgos March 21, 2020 At 9:30am Kidapawan March 25,2020 At 9:30am Panabo – GRAND AUCTION March 30-31


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MINDANAO TIMES

RICE...

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is no need for the farmer to till and prepare the field and sow seeds or plant again,” said Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, MinDA chair. On the expansion of upland rice and rain-fed farms and those that use irrigation systems will be made to plant TH 82, a new hybrid rice variety that only produces higher yield but also uses a little amount of water in growing it The new rice variety underwent a Department of Agriculture (DA)-administered field test in early 2018 which resulted in a yield of between eight to 10 metric tons a hectare, said Piñol. The rice program was

NGCP...

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

ROUGH... created to respond to the projected tight supply of rice in the country due to the halt of major exporting countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Piñol added that North Cotabato Nancy A. Catamco and Agriculture Assistant Secretary for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARRM) Sailila Abdula gave positive feedback about the program during its meeting last Monday. Starting in North Cotabato, the eighth top rice producing provinces in the country, the program will be replicated in other rice-producing provinces

of Mindanao. It will be implemented by MinDA and the local government unit (LGU) with the support from DA and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). Piñol said he asked the DA to release early the Inbred Rice Seeds under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program (RCEP) and to provide additional support for the participating LGUs. He also asked the NIA to release early the irrigation water in systems where water is still available and to defer any maintenance and repair works for the next season.

The PhP 1 Billion donation is over and above earlier NGCP assistance, including a donation of personal protective equipment (PPE), face masks, meals, and other supplies for the frontline workers in the health industry and the Meals on Wheels program conducted to distribute hot meals to indigent members of the community. NGCP’s technical partner, the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), also donated 500,000 face masks through the Philippine Red Cross.

“Our stakeholders, particularly the public, can be assured that NGCP will continue to look for opportunities to support the government in battling this pandemic. We recognize that the only way to defeat this global health threat is through our collective efforts,” stated the company. NGCP is a Filipinoled, privately owned company in charge of operating, maintaining, and developing the country’s power grid, led by majority shareholders Henry Sy, Jr. and Robert Coyiuto, Jr.

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support to the ongoing battle against the pandemic with a PhP 500,000,000 donation in the form of goods and medical equipment and another PhP 500,000,000 for the procurement of other COVID-19 response measures, as may be determined by the Office of the President. “Through our initial coordination with their Office, we were instructed to donate entirely in the form of medical equipment, with specific items such as video laryngoscopes, ventilators, and total face masks,” stated the company.

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one residing in the municipality imposing the border closure cannot even pay his brother a visit. And neither the other can come to his sibling to help or ask for assistance. The best that they can do is communicate through mobile phones and other related gadgets. And if they want to see each other personally they have to go to the road by its borders and shout at each other since there are checkpoints at both sides of the boundary keeping watch of constituents’ movement. This scenario is very much like that at the South and North Korean borders.

BIDS...

gency situation like the one prevailing in the country and all over the world today leaders have to resort to certain measures, including extreme ones, if they feel these will protect the greater majority of the people from sure perdition. And the measures like the ones adopted by certain LGU leaders are, without doubt, likely to benefit many in the end even as there are those who stand to suffer as well. This is the situation where we Filipinos are known to stand tall. And we will survive even if bruised to the maximum.

the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). “We have measures identified for this as outlined in (the) Bayanihan Act,” she added, referring to Republic Act (RA) 11469, which provided the President emergency powers to re-align some portion of this year’s national budget for Covid-19 measures. Initially, the government announced the allocation of PHP27.1 billion for sectors affected by the pandemic. Under the Bayanihan Act, some PHP200 billion will be distributed as cash and inkind aid for poor households whose livelihood was affected by the enhanced community quarantine implemented in

Luzon from March 17 to April 12. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has announced several policy measures to help address the economic impact of the global pandemic. These measures include the total of 75-basispoint reduction in the BSP’s key policy rates, 200-basispoint cut in universal and commercial banks’ reserve requirement ratio starting March 30, early remittance of PHP20-billion dividends for this year to the national government, and the acquisition of PHP300 billion worth of government securities that would be repurchased by the BTr at a maximum period of six months. (PNA)

The SEC also continues to accept applications for monitoring clearance for amendments to the articles of incorporation and bylaws of companies during the enhanced community quarantine. The complete requirements may be emailed to crmd_emer_amend1@sec. gov.ph for ordinary amendments such as change of corporate name, business purpose or principal office address. For applications for increase or decrease of capital stock, and merger and consoli-

dation, applicants may send their complete requirements to crdm_emer_amend2@sec. gov.ph. “We are working to ensure the CRS will remain accessible in order to facilitate the registration of companies while the enhanced community quarantine remains in force,” SEC Emilio Aquino said. “We will continue finding ways to limit the disruption in our everyday operations and to ensure our stakeholders can cope with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Given the enhanced quarantine procedures and the limited transportation available, we have taken steps to ensure continuity of service and ease of adjustment on your part during this difficult period,” the bank said in a statement. Online and mobile banking BDO encourages its clients to bank from home via its online and mobile banking services. Using its digital channels, clients can pay bills, send money, load up their prepaid mobile phones, and check account balances. To sign up for online banking, visit bdo.com.ph, click on “Online Banking Login,” then “Enroll Now!” on the login box. After filling out the forms, expect an ATM activation code. Use this code to confirm enrollment at the nearest BDO ATM. Clients with an activated online account can enjoy the ease and convenience of banking using their mobile devices. They can download the BDO Mobile App and access its features using

their registered username and password. A One-Time PIN (OTP) will be sent via SMS to add their device for further security. To learn more about BDO Online Banking, click here: bdo.com.ph/personal/ebanking/online-banking BDO reminds its clients to never give away their personal information to anyone when banking online. Personal information consists of bank account numbers, usernames, passwords, and One-Time PINs (OTPs). The bank will never ask for this information. Other banking channels BDO has its wide network of ATMs and Cash Accept Machines available. Here clients can withdraw and deposit money, and even pay bills. Cash Accept Machines also allow card-less transactions like cash deposits to Peso savings/checking accounts or cash cards. To learn more about its other services, visit: bdo.com.ph/ebanking/ cash-deposit-machine.

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rate would have averaged at 3.390 percent, higher than the prevailing interest rate of government securities and the 3.01-percent rate in the secondary market on Tuesday. The BTr offered debt security for PHP15 billion and tenders reached PHP29.6 billion. The rejection was made after a similar decision was made for the regularly issued 91-, 182-, and 364-day T-bill on Monday. National Treasurer Rosalia de Leon said they rejected the tenders because the bureau has “plenty of ammunition.” De Leon said government funds remain enough despite the huge requirements needed as soon as possible to address

SEC...

The extreme measure was only adopted by that LGU in Bulacan some four days ago. We have yet to hear of any development resulting from the total isolation of the said town. But one thing we can be certain about. That is, that it will ensure the possibility of a continuing freedom of the municipality from CoViD infection. But at the same time, it is very likely to put its residents in extreme hunger when the local food supplies and other resources for human existence run out. But again we subscribe to the dictum that in an emer-

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From March 16 to 27, the CRMD processed 2,500 applications. Of the total, 314 were promoted for the generation of the corresponding certificates of registration, 1,014 were assessed for payment, and 1,172 were required to include additional requirements. Alongside, the CRMD processed 562 name verification appeals, of which 429 were approved and 133 were denied. Applicants whose name verification appeals were approved may now proceed with the registration process.

BANK...

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COVID-19 pandemic, banks have been serving their customers in new ways. The number of open branches is reduced, banking hours are shortened, and skeletal force is in effect where possible. While the objective is to keep serving the urgent banking needs of clients, the adjustments in operations aim to protect the health and safety of both the customers and the front liners. In this unprecedented situation, customers’ understanding and openness to adapt to the “new normal” is valuable. BDO Unibank, for instance, is offering alternatives to branch banking, from promoting its online and mobile banking services to keeping its other channels available. This way, even if the branch near them is not available or handling heavier than usual transactions, their banking activity will not be hampered. “Over the past few days we have taken steps to ensure, as best we can, continued and uninterrupted service you have grown accustomed to.


MINDANAO TIMES

THURSDAY, APRIL 02, 2020

SPMC...

early compared to when sending it to RITM,” he said. They already tested 280 patients as of March 31. Meanwhile, the SPMC has currently 70 to 80 supplies of ventilators. He said

TRISIBOTS...

MAYOR...

SPMC decided to suspend some of their departments to utilize the equipment exclusively for COVID-19 patients. He said they are still sourcing for hospital supplies in case of a surge in patients.

(from page 2)

palengke, we would also be strict on the hygiene requirements of the food products being sold on mobile in our puroks and barangays,” she said. The city already gave a private sector the go signal to roll out three trucks

that will bring frozen meat products, vegetables, and fruits to the communities. The mayor said she was informed that these rolling stores are targeting to go to the barangays this weekend. By Warren Elijah E. Valdez

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recording proliferating on Facebook that people believed was her. Duterte said spreading false information will not help the city’s dilemma on how to contain the spread of COVID-19. “This is one of the

ECQ...

18M POOR...

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challenges for us right now on how to make the correct information reach the people and how to stop the fake news, misinformation, or deliberate malicious sending out of wrong information made by people,” she said.

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health personnel/services, banks and ATMs, savings and credit cooperatives, money-transfer services and bayad centers, courier services, other delivery services, gas stations, water refilling stations, LPG stations, business process outsourcing/call centers and mass media outlets. Restaurants, cafes, eateries or karenderia, food stalls and other related establishments will be allowed to operate but only cater to take-out orders. Employees who work for the said sectors will be allowed to go to work and may take the free bus transportation to their work. No work pass will be issued. A valid identification card should be presented to verify your work status. The people are also given food and medicine (FM) passes for them to be allowed to go outside and buy the necessities. They should also have a valid ID when they go out, as well as face masks. “There is no need to fear if Davao City will be placed under ECQ,” she said. “One or two members of the household can still go out using the food and medicine pass or FM pass.” One FM pass will be distributed to a boarder, sharer or renter. One pass will also be given to each family, and one pass for an individual with no family and who leaves alone, including a senior citizen. The ECQ will last until 11:59 on April 19, but may be extended to 11:59 on April 26, depending on the

decision of the doctors. After it is lifted, Davao City may revert back to community quarantine. “If there is no more Davaoeno who is infected, we can now lift the quarantine,” she said. For now, Duterte is preparing the executive order to declare the ECQ. No turning back The mayor was hoping that Davao City would not reach the point where she had to declare the ECQ. “What the doctors want to be done is to stop the time, to stop everything. All people must stop from moving so that they will not infect other people. All those people who need to be isolated should be put in isolation, so they will not infect others. That is what the doctors would want to happen,” she said. Duterte said there are still many presumptive COVID-19 positive patients in Davao City that could not be traced. And they continue to infect others if they are not on self-isolation. On late Tuesday night, the Department of Health (DOH)-Davao reported a total of 47 COVID-19 patients in Davao City bringing the total to 59 positive cases in Davao region. Eight of the 47 patients have been recorded as fatalities while six have recovered. “From the start I have already said that we do not want to do all of these but the doctors have said that this is the only way to end the spread of the infection,” she said.

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Northern Mindanao and Davao Region, while PHP5,000 worth of assistance will be distributed to each beneficiary from the Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Region, and Cagayan Valley, it added. The PCOO said a subsidy amounting to PHP5,000 will be given to each lowincome household residing in Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen, Caraga, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. “The ESP shall be provided by the national government, through various national and local government social amelioration programs, computed based on the prevailing regional minimum wage rates, and taking into account the subsidy amount given under (Social Welfare department’s) conditional cash program and the rice subsidy program, estimated at an average of PHP2,150 per month per family,” it said. “In this regard, the national government will augment the CCT and rice subsidy in order to reach the applicable emergency subsidy amount,” the PCOO added. Families qualified to receive the emergency subsidy should have at least one member who is a senior citizen, a person with disability, pregnant or lactating woman, solo parent, or overseas Filipino in distress. Households who are indigenous peoples or who belong to underprivileged and vulnerable sectors are also qualified to receive the

LORENZANA...

emergency subsidy. Social amelioration packages There are 13 social amelioration packages under the emergency subsidy program, the PCOO noted. The PCOO said one of the social amelioration programs is the distribution of food and non-food items to poor families. It said eligible family can also avail of “assistance to individuals in crisis situation,” an aid that allows beneficiary to receive an outright cash grant of either PHP3,000 or PHP5,000 and a PHP25,000 burial assistance in case a member of family dies due to Covid-19. The PCOO said families who have no incomes or savings may also be part of the expanded and enhanced Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. It stressed that qualified Sustainable Livelihood Program family beneficiaries who have at least one member working in the informal sector can receive a one-time grant of a maximum of PHP15,000 when the enhanced community quarantine is lifted. Another program is Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program that grants “one-time, nonconditional” PHP5,000 financial aid to affected formal workers, regardless of employment status. The government will also pay informal economy workers’ wages equivalent to 100 percent of the prevailing highest minimum wage in their region, provided they are willing to disinfect select areas for four hours a day for a maxi-

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March 26. He said he had close contact with Santos on at least three occasions -- during the turnover of medical supplies at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on March 22 and two different functions at the AFP General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, and Heroes' Hall in Malacañan Palace, Manila on March 23. During that time, Lorenzana said he did not experience any symptoms of Covid-19 but decided to go on a 14-day self-quarantine in compliance with medical protocols. In an earlier interview, he said he was not inclined to recommend the conversion of the Philippine Navy's (PN) two strategic sealift vessels, which are the largest in the fleet, into temporary hospital ships to house and treat Covid-19 patients. "Possible but not advis-

able. First, of our two landing docks that can qualify as a temporary hospital ship, only one is here. The other one is in Oman and will not be back until the end of April," Lorenzana said. He was referring to the BRP Tarlac (LD-601) and the BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602). The BRP Davao del Sur is still in Muscat, Oman with the BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) for a possible repatriation mission of Filipino overseas workers after tensions heated in the Middle East due to the USIran confrontations early this year. " S eco n d , on c e w e convert these ships into hospitals, we will not be able to use them for other purposes. We have only these two as transport ships. Third, the crew numbering 140 will be in danger of infection," Lorenzana said. (PNA)

mum of 10 days. Micro, small and medium enterprises operating for at least a year but suffered “drastic reduction in sales” due to Covid-19 crisis may also avail of PHP1-billion financing program, the PCOO noted. Small enterprises with assets not more than PHP10,000 may get a loan of up to PHP500,000, while micro enterprises may borrow money worth up to PHP200,000, both repayable at a discounted 0.5 percent monthly interest rate. The PCOO said the government would also impose moratorium on loan payments of small business corporation borrowers. “Affected borrowers shall be allowed to pay only their interest due for the succeeding six months, but interest rate will continue to accrue throughout the moratorium. The term of their loan shall be extended based on the number of months covered by the moratorium,” it said. Eligible farmers may also opt to have a one-time provision of PHP5,000 or a loan assistance worth PHP25,000. Micro and small enterprises engaged in agriculture and fisheries production at a concessionary rate may also seek loan assistance worth PHP300,000 up to 90 percent of their projected cost not exceeding PHP1.5 million. Micro-entrepreneurs may also receive assistance in the form of enterprise development training, livelihood kit worth between PHP5,000 and PHP8,000, and business counseling. The PCOO also emphasized that prices of basic necessities should remain frozen at their prevailing price while the entire country is under a state of calamity.

BIG...

Largest, widest social protection program In a presidential address on Monday night, President Rodrigo Duterte said government has allotted PHP200 billion for the largest and widest social protection program in the country’s history. “The government is now launching the largest and widest social protection program in our country’s history... to make up for the loss of economic opportunities due to the quarantine measures in place for COVID-19,” Duterte said. Duterte said the PHP200 billion is for lowincome households “badly affected” by the Covid-19 crisis. “Sila ang nasa (They are in the) informal sector and those who live day-to-day on subsistence wages or no-work, no-pay arrangements. Beneficiaryhouseholds will receive emergency support for two months based on the regional minimum wage,” Duterte said. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the Department of Social Welfare and Development would in the coming days roll out details of the PHP200 billion ESP. “This public health crisis has disrupted the lives and livelihoods of many of our countrymen, but government will exert all efforts to ensure that millions of Filipino families are taken care of; di po kayo pababayaan ng gobyerno ninyo (Your government won’t let you down),” Nograles said. Funds for the ESP will be sourced from the PHP275 billion the government has been allowed to tap under Republic Act No. 11469 or the Bayanihan We Heal as One Act. (PNA)

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Since the declaration of the country under a State of Public Health Emergency through the Proclamation no. 922, Series of 2020, the prices of basic commodities must remain in their r prevailing levels until May 8. “Pag declare pa lang og (State of) Public Health Emergency, naay gihimo nga price freeze ang national government agencies,” she said. “We’ll be doing regular monitoring, there will also be individual monitoring to check the level of production.” The agency is only monitoring basic commodities in big outlets, she said. The Department of Agriculture monitors prices of agricultural products, while the Food and Drugs Administration monitors

medical supplies. Although there are no violators yet, Ambi reassured the public that their office is open for any concerns or complaints. Thhose who have complaints may contact the agency through its email, r11.davaocity@ dti.gov.ph; landline, (082) 224-0511; or on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/ DTI.RegionXI/ Ambi urged all establishments to participate. “Panawagan nato sa mga establishments karon kung pwede na dili mag-take advantage (sa) atong crisis situation right now. I think this is the time na kinahanglan kita tanan magtinabangay and importante ang cooperation sa atong mga traders, retailers, ug uban pang tindahan,” she said. by Nicole Burlas


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