The Mindanao Cross | January 21, 2023

CCTV CAMS IN VOTING PRECINCTS PROPOSED FOR BARMM ELECTION CODE

By Ferdinandh Cabrera

Members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) presented the draft (BTA Bill No. 29) to stakeholders during the consultation at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center to solicit their stance, opinion, position and suggestions on the draft code, one of the priority codes BARMM has to approve into law during the transition period.

Dominant among the issues presented during the forum were the security of the electorate and teachers serving before, during and after elections.

Abdulwadud Lumabas, Liguasan marsh youth association for peace and development president, proposed the putting up of close circuit television (CCTV) cameras in all voting precincts.

Lumabas suggested the solidification of biometrics among voters as preventive measures against electoral fraud.

“Prohibit candidates from entering polling precincts except to vote, especially in remote areas where hostilities erupt when politicians enter polling places,” Lumabas said in the vernacular.

Serpent eagle, 2 sea turtles sent back to the wild in Sox

STAKEHOLDERS took as a vote of confidence for the Bangsamoro government the expansion of the peace and development efforts of the European Union and the United Nations Children’s Fund in the autonomous

By John Felix Unson

region. Officials of the European Union, most known by the acronym EU, donated last Monday to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority two 24-seater airconditioned coasters that its

80-members, comprising the regional parliament, can use.

Parliament members told reporters they were elated with the gesture of the EU that has actively been helping

EU envoy urges BARMM to boost forums on poll, governance codes

By Edwin O. Fernandez

THE European Union ambassador to the Philippines has urged the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to intensify consultations with the most vulnerable and marginalized sector in the region in crafting the draft Bangsamoro governance and electoral code.

EU Ambassador Luc Veron made

EU, UNICEF expands programs in BARMM DID YOU KNOW? Year of the Water Rabbit

the call Monday as the EU, through the Support to Bangsamoro Transition (Subatra) program donated two mini buses and LED movable display wall to Bangsamoro Transition Authority to help it in the conduct of consultations with greater sectors across the BARMM.

“We witnessed the BTA is working hard in fast tracking

2023 is the Year of the Rabbit based on Chinese zodiac, starting from Jan. 22, 2023 (Chinese New Year) and lasting to Feb. 9, 2024. Rabbit ranks fourth in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs. The Years of the Rabbit include 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023 - Travel China Guide

By Edwin O. Fernandez

TACURONG CITY — Environment officials in the Soccsksargen region have released back to the wild a juvenile Philippine Serpent Eagle here and two sea turtles in Sarangani province, environment officials said.

In a statement, the Tacurong City environment office said Keith Chester, a senior high school student of Notre Dame of Tacurong College, has found the juvenile Serpent Eagle weak and unable to fly in Barangay New Carmen on Friday, Feb. 13.

He then sought the help of the police to ensure the wildlife will be in good hands.

Dr. Badjury Mustapha, DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) officer of Tacurong City, said Police Patrolman Romnick Valenzuela, in turn, handed the bird over to CENRO “for proper

handling and care.”

“After its full recovery, the bird was sent back to its natural habitat in Tacurong City,” Dr. Mustapha said.

Tacurong has migratory bird sanctuary in Barangay Baras.

In the shores of Purok Pananggalon, Barangay Poblacion in Malapatan town Sarangani province, environment officials released back to the wild on Sunday, Jan. 15, a female Olive Ridley sea turtle after several days of rehabilitation.

The endangered specie was found and rescued on January 9 by local residents who turned over the sea creature to Engr. Joey Coliao, municipal environment and natural resources officer (MENRO) of Malapatan.

Coliao said the marine turtle was found stranded at the coast of Malapatan, weakened due to

BARMM urges learners to write stories, opinion on transition

Creation of 8 new BARMM towns on

Caritas PH calls for more gov’t support to onion farmers

VARIOUS issues were presented during public consultations Wednesday in Cotabato City about the draft Bangsamoro Electoral Code (BEC) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The rescued Philippine Serpent Eagle in Tacurong City Photo courtesy of DENR-12

STUNNING SCENERY: A small barge crew ensures that the boat docks are safe as it approaches the calm and shallow turquoise water towards the shoreline of Tandang Mairan Rock Formation in Omar, Sulu. Sulu in the Bangsamoro region is home to a plethora of pristine beaches with powdery white sand. Story on page 2 Photo courtesy of BIO

BARMM urges learners to write stories, opinion on transition

THE autonomous government has launched the “Bangsamoro Learner, a Face of Resilience and Excellence,” initially as a theme for high school and college students to express in written words through the First Salah Jubair Essay Writing Contest.

Officials of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) education ministry have said the competition will form part of the on-going weeklong celebration of the Bangsamoro Foundation, from late January to early February.

Two major events happened during these months about three years agothe two plebiscites in January and in February 2019 when Republic Act 11054 was voted by residents on the creation of BARMM and on expanding the autonomous territory to 63 barangays in North Cotabato.

“As part of the celebration of the

upcoming Bangsamoro Foundation Day, the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education will be holding the First Salah Jubair Essay Writing Contest with the theme, ;Bangsamoro Learner, a Face of Resilience and Excellence',” said Deputy Minister Haron Meling of the region’s Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE).

The MBHTE statement said the essay competition for senior secondary students as well as tertiary students “will give Junior High, Senior High, and Tertiary students in the autonomous region a platform "to share personal

stories and examine the impact of the Bangsamoro transition period on the lives of young people and how it shapes their vision and plan for the future.”

The Salah Jubair Essay Writing Contest is open to all students in BARMM—be they Muslims or Christians; All participants will be categorized according to their level (Junior High, Senior High, and Tertiary).

The entry must be written in English with a minimum of 600 words. Download the template by visiting the link below. Template Link: bit.ly/3iBymM6 Font face should be Times New Roman, Font size: 12 and Line spacing:

1.5

“Failure to comply with the abovementioned requirements will be automatically disqualified,” the MBHTE announcement said.

Entries can be sent on the prescribed template to salahjubair.2023ewc@gmail. com.

The awarding of winners will be on January 24, 2023.

The criteria are: Relevance to the Theme: 45% Originality : 25% Structure : 15% Style : 15% Total : 100%.

A grand prize of P75,000 awaits each winner for high school, junior high and tertiary category. NBM

THE European Union (EU) is set to provide technicalvocational training to about 600 former Moro combatants as part of the transition and transformation of former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camps in Mindanao.

Minister Mohaqher Iqbal of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) in the Bangsamoto Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), said the decommissioned MILF will undergo training through the EU Programme on Assistance for Camp Transformation through Inclusion, Violence Prevention and Economic Empowerment (PROACTIVE).

An agreement between MBHTE and UN Development Programme (UNDP) was signed on Monday, Jan. 16.

The program aims to enhance local capacities to facilitate the transition and transformation of the six major declared camps of the MILF into peaceful and productive communities.

and promoting confidencebuilding, through improved access to basic communal services and facilities.”

Ramachandran said the project hopes to enable "social cohesion and community resilience." It hopes to increase participation of local stakeholders, including women, youth, and faith-based leaders in peacebuilding, promoting a culture of peace, and conflict transformation in their respective communities.

He said the vocational skill development training and accreditation will provide richer environment for income source for the 600 decommissioned combatants.

"We hope this partnership will continue until the exit agreement is signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” Minister Iqbal said.

Minister Iqbal lauded the EU’s persistent support to the Bangsamoro and the Mindanao peace process in various aspects.

THE tourism bureau of the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) is keen that promising business opportunities await potential tourism investors in the region.

On the second day of the 3-day first ever Bangsamoro Business Congress, Bureau of Tourism Director Marites Maguindra presented a glimpse of tourism in the region vis-a-vis with the national tourism road map.

"We wanted to promote the region as an equally competitive tourism haven in the country like Boracay and Palawan, among others," said Maguindra.

She stressed that BARMM has so many tourism destinations comparable to the traditional tourist destination in the country. In the data presented, the region has posted around 784,495 tourist arrival since

2019.

While there are challenges such as gateway access, infrastructure, health and safety (due to the pandemic), and economic impact, the region remained to be competitive. The tourism sector in the region also continuously faces challenges in equalizing promotion, tourist safety and security, and the lack of employment opportunities.

In the plenary session, one of the mechanisms seen to resolve identified tourism challenges is the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach. As defined on its official website, it is a contractual agreement between the Government and a private firm targeted towards financing, designing, implementing, and operating infrastructure facilities and services that were traditionally provided by the public sector.

Responding to a question on how

would PPP become a viable option for developing tourism opportunities in the region, Maguindra emphasized that tourism investment is not something that can be easily afforded by the government hence private corporations can be engaged as partners.

"The tourism development is not just a million worth of money. It is a very big investment for our government could hardly afford," said Maguindra hence PPP is the best option.

Some of the potential tourism developments shown in today's event are the following: the development of Bulubudtua falls and Liguasan Marsh in Maguindanao, Ramba park in Lanao del Sur, Mahatallang War Memorial in Basilan, Timpuok Lake in Sulu, and Sitangkai Urban Renewal and Seaweed Facility in Tawi-Tawi. BIO

BARMM health ministry opens 4 village health stations

HEALTH authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have opened and inaugurated four new barangay health stations in Maguindanao del Sur as the health ministry intensified delivery of basic health services.

BARMM Ministry of Health minister Dr. Rizaldy Piang said with the threats of COVID-19 slowing down, his office has stepped up the delivery of other basic health services in far-flung communities.

The four new barangay health stations (BHS) in Maguindanao del Sur aims to provide the residents with easier access to health services.

Minister Piang said the BHS are located Barangay Manindolo in Datu Paglas town; Barangay Muti in Guindulungan municipality, and in Barangays Kakal and Kapinpilan in Ampatuan town.

He said each of the BHS was worth PHP2.5-million complete with Php500,000 worth of equipment. The BARMM “Tiyakap Bangsamoro Kalusugan Program” (TBKP) funded two of these projects while the other two were under the Special Development Fund (SDF).

Minister Piang described the project as “health milestone.”

"Ampatuan town residents will no longer travel to distant health stations since they already have one in their community,” Dr. Piang said, adding that health personnel were also deployed to man the health stations.

Dr. Tato Usman, MOH-BARMM director for operations said residents of these four villages are lucky since they have new building that are manned by health providers. EOF

“EU's generous support to the Philippines,” was how UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran described the project that costs US$4.6 Million and to run for two-years.

He said it will contribute to "creating enabling environment for sustainable employment and enterprise development, delivered initial peace dividends

“We are very happy one of the interventions of the EU is the skills training for the decommissioned MILF combatants," he added.

The 600 techvoc beneficiaries are part of the more than 20,000 former MILF fighters who have been decommissioned as part of the Normalization Process of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

EOF

SEIZED. The 21,000 marijuana plants uprooted Monday in Tampakan, South Cotabato were immediately set on fire by agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-12 and policemen.

Photo courtesy of PDEA-12

Promising opportunities await tourism investors in BARMM

EU to fund techvoc skills training for ex-MILF fighters

Mariam Ali, Mindanao Organization for Social and Economic Progress, Inc. (MOSEP) project manager, suggested to reduce notarial fees for groups joining political parties in BARMM.

Ariel de Asis of BARMM Office for Settler Communities, said the proposed number of political party membership to 10,000 is too huge. “We suggest that this be omitted, there should be no figure for the purpose,” he said.

Ustadz Abdulkarim Tan

Misuari, BTA deputy speaker, admitted the proposed figure of party membership before they can join BARMM political activities is big.

In the BTA parliament, there are eight seats for sectoral representatives.

MP Misuari admitted the same sentiments were raised during consultations in island provinces. “The issue is very much valid and the BTA is taking that seriously,” he said in the vernacular.

Mayor Datu Lester Sinsuat

UNICEF expands programs

push the Mindanao peace process forward.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim said Thursday the continuing support of EU to the BARMM administration is, for them, a show of trust on its dedication to foster peace and sustainable development in the five provinces and three cities in its core territory.

The two shuttle coasters were turned over Monday to Ebrahim by EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron in a symbolic rite at the BARMM capitol here, witnessed by Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr.

Four members of the BARMM parliament, Dan Asnawie, the physician Kadil Sinolinding, Jr. and the lawyers Ras Mitmug and Omar Sema separately told reporters at the sideline of the event then that they appreciate EU’s show of confidence on the Bangsamoro government, manifested via Veron’s visit to the regional capitol.

Representatives from EU and UNICEF, BARMM officials and local executives launched Wednesday in Marawi City a program dubbed “Building Community Resilience

and Delivery of Essential Services for Post Conflict Recovery in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City.”

UNICEF has current humanitarian activities in the Bangsamoro region, mostly in areas wracked by conflicts in years past.

The program aims to strengthen community resilience, increase coverage of essential services, and promote “child-friendly family and community behaviors” among beneficiaries in 44 municipalities Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte and Bukidnon.

The €4 million (P245 million) budget for the program is earmarked for health, education, child protection and disaster risk reduction thrusts that would benefit at least 680,000 children, 200,000 parents and 120,000 persons affected by Marawi City siege.

“Children have a right to just be children and play, learn and spend time with family and friends. Safeguarding the next generation from the effects of armed conflict is our collective responsibility,” Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov, UNICEF’s representative to the Philippines, said

of Datu Odin Sinsuat, said he will attend once it is held in Maguindanao del Norte.

“Public consultation is a democratic process, I will attend and share my suggestions,” Mayor Sinsuat said.

The passage of proposed electoral code is also the concern of European Union envoy to the Philippines Luc Veron. He suggested to BARMM to hold more consultations on this with more people.

Massive consultation and dialogues are also beneficial to

during the launching of the program.

Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. said he is thankful to the EU and UNICEF for embarking on projects essential to the recovery of the conflictstricken communities in Marawi City and in other towns under his jurisdiction.

“We are grateful to the EU and UNICEF,” Adiong said.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late CANDAO DILAO KEMPA, who died on December 3, 2017, left a Savings Account with Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) under Account No. 0376 4224 53 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 104; Page No. 104; Book No. XXIX; Series of 2023.

MC: Jan. 21, 28 & Feb. 4, 2023

EU

all, according to a political thinktank Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG).

“We observe more important issues were raised from local officials, civil society organizations and emerging political groups that may be considered into the draft code,” Atty. Benedicto Bacani, IAG executive director, said.

Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, BARMM interior and local government minister, really pushed for extensive consultations with the electorate

and major stakeholders.

“We would like to know the position of stakeholders on provisions disallowing dynasties like in a town if the father is the mayor, his wife should not be elected to office of vice mayor or council, his sons or daughters are barred from seeking a seat in the town council,” Sinarimbo said in the vernacular.

The BTA hopes the passage of proposed electoral code during the first quarter of this year, the first year of extended transition period.

envoy urges BARMM to boost .. .from P1

passage of two vital and priority codes – electoral code and local governance code,” Ambassador Veron said in his speech.

“These codes are important pieces of legislation that will ensure political stability in BARMM in the years to come and further promote peace and development,” he added.

Ambassador Veron said the UE, through the Subatra, is accompanying members of the BTA parliament in ensuring inclusive participation through open, transparent and extensive public consultations so that all voices from various groups are heard.

He was hoping for active participation from various groups, especially the marginalized and vulnerable groups among Muslims and non-Muslims, Christians and Indigenous Peoples like women, youth, elderly and people with disabilities.

The EU envoy was hoping the twin vehicles EU has donated as well as the LED wall will help in reaching out to the people in the remote areas.

“More voices heard, information widely disseminated and public services are more known and efficiently delivered,” he stressed.

Ambassador Veron said the EU is confident that after the transition period (year 2023-2025) “we would have contributed in putting in place a more responsive and capacitated Bangsamoro government espousing principle democracy and inclusive governance as specified in the Bangsamoro Organic Law.”

“Support to Bangsamoro Transition” (Subatra), a 5-year program funded by the European Union, and co-financed by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), through an agreement with the Philippine government.

Subatra contributes to a smooth and timely undertaking of the transition through capacity building of the three branches of the Bangsamoro Government (executive, legislative and judiciary) and civil society organizations.

Ambassador Veron also revealed that the EU-Subatra steering committee gathered before the turnover program where important matters were discussed “to make sure that objectives will be achieved and milestones delivered on time.”

In November 2021, The Bangsamoro Government and European Union officially launched the five-year Php1.5-Billion Subatra Programme.

The program aims

to help BARMM lay the foundation for lasting peace and development by strengthening its institutions’ democratic governance capacities during the transition period.

It is co-funded by the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation and Development started in July 2020 and will run until June 2025.

Through this program, the BARMM executive, along with the parliament, judiciary, and civil society, will strengthen their capacities to drive and coordinate key transitional policies, exercise lawmaking, and oversight functions, adjudicate litigations, improve access to justice, and contribute to a peaceful transition.

“We pray that Subatra will always be our partner during this transition or even beyond the transition when we have the regular government,” BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim said during the turnover program.

“It is my genuine hope that your succeeding programs will be replicated and enjoyed by the communities of the Bangsamoro Region and that those initiatives will leave a lasting legacy that will be enjoyed by our

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 12th Judicial Region BRANCH 14 Cotabato City

SPL. PROC. CASE NO. 2022-1594

IN RE: PETITION FOR THE PROBATE OF THE NOTARIAL WILL OF JESUS PERFECTO MARQUEZ MARTINEZ AND THE ISSUANCE OF LETTERS TESTAMENTARY

MICHELLE B. MARTINEZ, Petitioner. x---------------------------------------------x ORDER

A verified petition was filed by petitioner, assisted by counsel, praying that the Honorable Court: a) Set the present petition for hearing and thereafter issue the required notices to the following: (i) Vivian Biruar Martinez, Marie-vie B. Martinez, Anthony John B. Martinez42 Ramon Rabago St., Rosary Heights XIII, Cotabato City; (ii) Tomas Ringo B. Martinez- 71 First St., Don E. Sero, Rosary Heights V, Cotabato City (iii) Agnes Farida Bagaforo- 40 Don T.V. Juliano Avenue, Bagua II, Cotabato City; and (iv) Erlie Josefa R. Babayen-on- 360A Uriel St., Peñafrancia Subdivision, Rosary Heights XII, Cotabato City; b) Admit the notarial will of Jesus Perfecto Marquez Martinez dated 10 September 2021 into probate; c) Issue letters testamentary in favor of Agnes Farida Bagaforo-Arellano, or in case of her incapacity to Erlie Josefa R. Babayen-on, without the necessity of filing a bond.

FINDING the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on February 9, 2023 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, at which place, date and time, any person who may have interest, if any, may show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published in a newspaper edited and of general circulation in the City of Cotabato and Province of Maguindanao once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks prior to the date of hearing at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

Cotabato City, Philippines, this 9th of January, 2023.

(Sgd.) KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN Acting Presiding Judge MC: Jan. 21, 28 & Feb. 4, 2023

incoming generation,” he added.

He told the Bangsamoro leaders and EU delegates that “the way we build today in the transition will matter in the regular government of the Bangsamoro, God willing.”

Chief Minister Ebrahim was elated with the presence of newly designated National Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr and publicly his unending contributions to peace in Mindanao.

Sec. Galvez, in his speech, said that he remains the Presidential Adviser the Office of the Peace Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) while heading the defense department.

Galvez assured Bangsamoro people and its leaders he will remain peace advocate for Mindanao and the country.

“Peace process will always be in my heart and I promise to you chief minister and all the members of the parliament that all of my remaining life will be dedicated to achieving peace in the Bangsamoro, it's my commitment and my eternal commitment to you,” Galvez said, getting resounding applause from the BARMM officials and UN delegates.

SPECIAL PROC. NO. 20221580 -for-

CANCELLATION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF AL-SHAMER SINSUAT SANGKIGAY (REGISTRY NO. 96-1813)

AL-SHAMER FOUZIE

-versus-

A verified petition was filed by petitioners, assisted by counsel, Atty. Jirah L. Jareta, praying that an Order be issued directing the Civil Registrar of Cotabato City to CANCEL Shamier Sinsuat De Castro’s Certificate of Live Birth (Registry No, 96-1813).

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on February 21, 2023 at 1:30 o’clock in the afternoon.

Let this Order be published in a newspaper edited and of general circulation in the City of Cotabato and Province of Maguindanao, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks prior to the date of hearing at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

Cotabato City, Philippines, this 13th day of December, 2022.

(Sgd.) KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN Acting Presiding Judge MC: Jan. 14, 21 & 28, 2023

SINSUAT SANGKIGAY a.k.a. SHAMIER SINSUAT DE CASTRO and MANUEL L. DE CASTRO, JR., Petitioners,

VICKY GARDNER SINSUAT, JERRY PANGAWILAN SANGKIGAY, AND CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, Respondents.

Bangladesh envoy pays courtesy visit to Speaker Balindong update

BANGLADESH Ambassador to the Philippines F.M. Borhan Uddin and other delegates paid a courtesy visit to Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Atty. Pangalian Balindong on January 12, in Cotabato City.

Bangladesh Ambassador to the Philippines F.M. Borhan Uddin and other delegates paid a courtesy visit to Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Atty. Pangalian Balindong on January 12, in Cotabato City.

Parliament Speaker Atty. Balindong

gave updates on the accomplishments and activities of the Parliament.

Floor Leader Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, Member of Parliament Eddie Alih, and Secretary General Prof. Raby Angkal were also in attendance during the visit.

BTA public order, safety committee forms TWGs to expedite forum on 9 draft resolutions

THE Bangsamoro Parliament's Public Order and Safety Committee has formed three technical working groups to expedite deliberations on the nine proposed resolutions referred to the committee.

Among the proposed resolutions discussed were calling on the Bangsamoro government and other appropriate agencies to conduct a parliamentary inquiry and investigation and submit recommendations pertaining to several killings in the region.

Committee members have also agreed to schedule a parliamentary inquiry in aid

of legislation into the series of killings and alarming state of public order and safety in Maguindanao and the BARMM Special Geographic Area.

The CPOS has jurisdiction over all matters concerning peace and order, Bangsamoro Police, fire and jail management, suppression of criminalities, regulation of the private security services, firearms, firecrackers, pyrotechnics, destructive fires, rescue, emergency medical services, and research and development in the internal security aspects within the Bangsamoro region.

MPs undergo orientation on legislative procedures

A three-day orientation on the Bangsamoro Transition Authority’s house rules, legislative processes, and legislative secretariat support services was held this week for the first-term Members of the Bangsamoro Parliament.

that this will help the new MPs in understanding the Parliament’s rules, processes, and procedures, especially now that the second Parliament is working on the passage of the two priority codes ― the electoral code and local governance code.

They also discussed the Bangsamoro Organic Law,

organizational structure, and budgetary process.

The MPs were also given an overview of the functions and roles of various BTA offices, services, and divisions.

The activity is in partnership with the Support to Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA).

BTA rules committee okays amended skeds for election code consultations

THE Rules Committee of the Bangsamoro Parliament has approved the amended schedules for public consultations on the proposed Bangsamoro Electoral Code in the region's mainland provinces.

Based on the meeting presided over by Floor Leader Atty. Sha Elijah DumamaAlba, public consultations took place on January 18 in Cotabato City, on January 19 in the BARMM Special Geographic Area. On January 30 and 31 in the provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur.

Atty. Dumama-Alba said that the committee intends to adhere to the schedule of having the bill approved in Parliament by the first quarter of the year.

The BTA Bill No. 29, also known as the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, will prescribe the structural, functional, and procedural principles for the elections of members of the Parliament in the Bangsamoro region.

Local chief executives and nongovernment stakeholders are expected to participate in the said consultations.

The

OVER twenty women's cooperatives and associations in Camp Darapanan, Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao received financial assistance worth P50,000 to P250,000 from the Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF) of Member of the Parliament Engr. Aida Silongan.

cash aid, provided under the Ministry of Labor and Employment’s Bangsamoro Rural Employment through Entrepreneurial Development (BREED) program, seeks to provide start-up capital to qualified workers from the informal sector.

Deputy Speaker Atty. Omar Yasser Sema said

300 students get education aid from Deputy Speaker Sema’s TDIF

OVER 300 students from Ibay National High School in Matanog, Maguindanao, received educational assistance from the Office of Deputy Speaker Atty. Omar Yasser Sema, through the Angat Bangsamoro: Kabataan Tungo sa Karunungan (ABK) program of the Ministry of Social Services and Development.

Students from low-income families were given priority in MSSD's ABK program, that helps them with schoolrelated expenses.

The payout was funded through the Transitional Development Impact Fund of DS Sema.

BTA environment committee adopts internal rules, procedures

THE Bangsamoro Transition Authority’s Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy has adopted its own internal rules and procedures.

Committee Chairperson Tawakal Midtimbang said that, as this is the committee's first

meeting, it is necessary to discuss the internal rules before proceeding with bills and resolutions referred to the said committee.

He also urged the committee members to work together to fulfill their mandates and cater to the needs of the Bangsamoro.

PRO-BAR gets 2 patrol cars thru MP Abas’ TDIF

MEMBER of the Parliament Akmad Abas recently turned over two units of patrol vehicles to the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR).

The two patrol cars will be given to the Maguindanao del Sur police stations in Datu Paglas and Pagalungan to help them in their efforts to keep the area safe and peaceful.

MP Akbas funded the project through his Transitional Development Impact Fund.

BTA holds forum on draft governance code in Cotabato City, SGA

THE Bangsamoro Parliament’s Committee on Local Government is set to hold another round of public consultations for Parliament Bill No. 30, or the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code, in the region’s mainland provinces this January and February.

Farmers in Maugindanao, SGA get farming equipment thru MP Gayak’s TDIF

IN an effort to help farmers increase agricultural production, Member of the Parliament

BARMM Special Geographic Area. The distribution of the said inputs and equipment was funded under the Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF) of MP Gayak and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform.

The CLG held consultations with local chief executives and other relevant stakeholders on Friday, January 20 in Maguindanao, and on February 1 in Lanao del Sur, and February 24 in Cotabato City and

the BARMM Special Geographic Area.

MP Atty. Raissa Jajurie, CLG’s committee chair, said that the proposed priority code is expected to be enacted by March of this year.

The BLGC, filed by the Government of the Day, will provide a clear direction between local government units and the Bangsamoro government.

The first round of public consultations for the BLGC was conducted in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi in December last year.

Abdullah Gayak has turned over several farming equipment and inputs to farmers from various areas in Maguindanao province and the

Caritas PH calls for more gov’t support to onion farmers

Caritas Philippines issued a statement Monday calling on the Department of Agriculture to help farmers increase onion production at less costs in a bid to lower their prices in the market.

“The government should provide financial incentives or subsidies to help our farmers grow more onions and lower the cost of production,” said its president Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo.

“This will make them more competitive with producers from other

countries, who are already receiving large subsidies and other forms of support from their government,” he said.

Aside from the financial support, the bishop also urged the DA to improve onion farming infrastructures in the country.

“Another thing that can be looked into is infrastructural investments that would improve the productivity and efficiency of onion farms,” Bagaforo said.

“More cold storage

facilities should be established to lessen the cost surplus of our farmers and meet the rising demand for agricultural products in the market,” he added.

The national Caritas issued the statement as prices of local red onions are now between P500 to P720 per kilogram, while local white onions are priced at P600.

The amount is far from prices in 2021, when the prevailing price of locally produced onions stood at around P140 per kilo. CBCP News

Father of Asian Theology,’ Father Catalino Arevalo, dies at 97

PROMINENT Filipino Jesuit priest Catalino Arevalo, dubbed the “Father of Asian Theology,” died early morning of Wednesday, January 18, three months before his 98th birthday.

“Our dear mentor and friend, Fr Catalino Arevalo, SJ, whom we fondly called ‘Fr Revs,’ has passed on,” read a note posted on social media by Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan.

“May this great teacher to whom we owe our love for theological learning and the spiritual discipline of

discernment rest in the peace of God’s embrace,” said the prelate.

In 1998, Father Arevalo was named the “Father of Asian Theology” by the Ateneo de Manila University at a convocation commemorating the feast of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.

The university cited the priest’s more than 9,000 pages of theological writings “with an Asian emphasis” in the name of bishops’ conferences and other Church leaders.

The Jesuit was the first

Asian on the Holy See’s International Theological Commission and the first convenor and founding member of the Theological Advisory Commission of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC).

After a 1970 trip to Latin America, Father Arevalo gave the first lectures on liberation theology in the Philippines. That same year he served as a “peritus” (expert) at an Asian bishops’ meeting that would evolve in 1974 into the FABC. Jose Torres Jr./LiCAS.news

Balanga diocese will resist BNPP revival

THE Roman Catholic Diocese of Balanga has vowed to continue its fight against plans to revive the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP).

Bishop Ruperto Santos said they stand firm against the project because “we don’t want to put life on the brink of danger, in the shadow of impending death, and in a future with no certainty of goodness, safety, and beauty”.

“We acted then and will continue to act today. We are against it. Stop it. Enough. We do not agree. We are against any ideas or plans for the rehabilitation of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant,” Santos said in a pastoral letter.

“The Diocese of Balanga objects and it cannot be changed. Life is more important to us than profit or money from low-cost electricity or just to satisfy someone’s personal selfish motives,” he said.

The prelate made the statement as the House Special Committee on Nuclear Energy recently began talks on the development of nuclear power, including the possible revival of the

BNPP, to fix power shortage.

The diocese maintains that nuclear energy remains a high-risk technology, will be harmful to the environment, and the amount of waste it will produce “will be tremendous and so does the cost to dispose it”.

“We don’t want to put life on the brink of danger, in the shadow of impending death, and in a future with no certainty of goodness, safety, and beauty,” Santos said.

“We don’t want our sea to be uninhabitable to marine life, resulting in the disruption of our ecosystem. We don’t want our soil to be poisoned and no longer viable to be cultivated. We don’t want our livelihoods to be destroyed,” he said.

The late former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr ordered construction of the 620-megawatt nuclear facility in the 1970s.

Beset with safety concerns and corruption allegations, the project was mothballed after Marcos was ousted in 1986 and in the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. CBCP News

“Christ is the Light of the World.” This is the opening statement of the Church’s Dogmatic Constitution of the Second Vatican Council. This is the reason for the Church’s missionary activity. The light of Christ must be shared to all nations. By reason of Jesus being the founder and head of the Church, the Church continues the saving ministry of Jesus.

This is what the first reading and the gospel proclaim this Sunday. The gospel speaks of Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah (first reading), “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light , upon those who dwelt in the land of doom, a great light has shown ” (Isaiah 9:1). Jesus brought light by beginning His public ministry and proclaiming the coming of the Kingdom (Mt.4:17). In order to spread this light, he first chose apostles, co-workers whom He would teach and form according to the values of the Kingdom. He then started his ministry of proclaiming the Kingdom and healing those who were sick as signs of the coming of the Kingdom among them.

Jesus taught mostly by way of stories about what the Kingdom is like. It is like a banquet to which everyone is invited, including the sinners and the outcasts. The kingdom is like the father who waits for the return of his prodigal son. The kingdom is like a small shrub that grows into a big tree. The kingdom of God is the fulfillment of people’s desire for love, justice, reconciliation and forgiveness. The kingdom of God is not an exclusive club which only welcomes perfect people, rather it is inclusive of those who were sinners and sought a new life. Indeed everyone is called to join God’s kingdom . Everyone is called to holiness (made

whole by God’s grace).

During baptism, we are given the candle as a symbol of accepting and sharing the light of Christ. We too become carriers of the light of Christ. As the prayer of St. Francis says, “Where there is darkness, let me bring light, where there is injury, pardon and where there is sadness, ever joy.” This is what evangelization is all about. It is not so much about multiplying quantitative memberships into the church but bringing Christ’s message of love, compassion, and care. It is bringing spiritual, emotional, physical, and environmental wellness into people’s lives.

Gentium

Throughout the centuries the Church has been sharing this light in many ways: education to conquer ignorance, healing for those who are sick, peace-making and dialogue in situations of conflict, advocacies for human rights, ecological wellness, and “actions for justice”. As the Synod of Bishops (1971) had prophetically declared, “Action on behalf of justice and participation in the transformation of the world fully appear to us as a constitutive dimension of the preaching of the gospel.”

Each of us in our own capacities and situations can help to spread the light of Christ. There was a lady who transferred to a new neighborhood and she noticed that there were no flowers. She started planting flowers around her house and later her neighbors asked for seedlings to plant. Eventually the neighborhood became a place that attracted visitors because of its many flowers. As the song goes, “It is better to light just one little candle than to stumble in the dark … and if everyone lights just one little candle what a bright world this would be”.

Daily Scripture Readings

Readings: no. 317, p. 132

1st Reading: Hebrews 9.15, 24-28

Gospel: Mark 3.22-30

Readings: no. 318, p. 134 or no. 518, p. 628

1st Reading: Hebrews 10.1-10

Gospel: Mark 3.31-35

Readings: no. 519, p. 628

1st Reading: Acts 22.3-16 or Acts 9.1-22 Gospel: Mark 16.15-18

Readings: no. 520, p. 632

1st Reading: 2 Timothy 1.1-8 or Titus 1.1-5 Gospel: no. 724(8), p. 812: Luke 10.1-9

Readings: no. 321, p. 141

1st Reading: Hebrews 10.32-39

Gospel: Mark 4.26-34

Readings: no. 322, p. 143 or no. 522, p. 634

1st Reading: Hebrews 11.1-2, 8-19 Gospel: Mark 4.35-41

THE Catholic Church’s social action and advocacy arm urged the government to provide farmers with needed assistance amid the soaring prices of onions in the market.

The control room of the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) in Morong, Bataan province. Photo courtesy of CBCP News

Fr. Catalino Arevalo, SJ

EDITORIAL

Caught in Heavy Traffic

Oneof the downside of development is the terrible traffic condition in urban areas.

It is a wonder why humans have this love affair with the 4 wheels or 2 wheels vehicles. They take it as a sign of success (or prestige) to be seen driving a vehicle. They prefer to spend their money on a vehicle than a house. One person have this more humble opinion of driving. For him, it is independence – being able to go anywhere he wants to. I have the same notion in my younger days; but seeing a colleague nearly ran over by a friend, I gave up any dreams of independence. I simply cannot push through a dream in exchange of the life of a friend.

Drivers will agree with me when I say that driving in Cotabato is “torture”. Several years ago, one has to wait long for a jeep to stop and bring one to his destination. Now, jeepneys and tricycles compete to get passengers. It’s a microcosm of Metro Manila – the terrible traffic. Can our urban planners avoid this with proper planning strategy? Let us stop being reactive and be pro-active for once – especially in meeting the traffic problem.

What are the disadvantages of being caught in heavy traffic? Both drivers and passengers have to keep the urge to “pee” because there is no way of relieving oneself once you are in the vehicle. Don’t you wonder why there are so many persons undergoing dialysis? It’s hard to be nice to your kidneys when you are caught in traffic. Traffic also causes road rage. Altercations due to traffic leads to fights or deaths. “Ayaw magbigayan”. See how drivers try to overtake others in a road that is already full of vehicles. Motorcycle drivers are notorious for doing this, as if they are snakes that will push themselves when they see a small space in between. And see how they drive in highways – as if they are alone using the road. There is a psychological effect of the wind slapping on a driver’s face. He becomes unaware of other road users.

What then should an LGU do to avoid these? Hire a lot of traffic enforcers, although they cannot do anything when drivers are ignorant of traffic rules. The Land Transportation Commission (LTO) has a big role on this - make sure that the drivers who are getting their licenses or renewing their licenses know by heart traffic rules and regulations, not just having a permit or have undergone test emission.

When certain areas are foreseen to have a lot of activities, the public should be warned of the traffic condition so they can avoid using the road. Avoid closing the roads to traffic without warning the public so they can use alternate routes. Strictly enforce the no overtaking policy. Motorcycle drivers are notorious of doing this. Can you imagine a street with 4 lanes where a line of 5 are occupied leaving only a counterflow of one lane? As they say, only in Cotabato. Please, Mayor Bruce, and whoever heads the LTO right now? Make our life more pleasant! MC

ThePhilippine government and most of the Filipino people proudly proclaim this country to be democratic. But is it really?

We ask this in the face of the latest “abduction” of two young development workers and human rights advocates in Cebu City recently. The two – Armand Dayoha and Dyan Gumanao – went back to Cebu on board a ferry from Cagayan de Oro on January 9 after spending the holidays with their families here in Mindanao. Dyan informed her father Danny of their arrival in Cebu the morning of the following day, January 10, but they have not been heard of from since then, prompting their families to report them missing to authorities on January 13.

The couple’s disappearance alarmed their families and colleagues since both have reportedly experienced being followed by unidentified men after attending protests and demonstrations since 2020. Dyan was among eight activists, collectively known as Cebu 8, arrested in June of 2020 while staging a protest against the government’s pandemic response in front of UP Cebu. According to Karapatan-Central Visayas, the most recent incident of tailing and surveillance happened to Dyan in the last quarter of 2022.

A native of Kidapawan City, Dyan was part of a group of school children who hosted the award-winning radio program Usapang Pambata supported by the Provincial Government of Cotabato and was broadcast on radio station DXND of the Notre Dame Broadcasting Corporation in the mid-2000’s. She was an outstanding student and graduated class salutatorian at the Kidapawan City National High School before taking up BS Mass Communication at UP Cebu where she graduated Cum Laude.

A video showing the couple being forced inside a vehicle by men in civilian clothes made the rounds on social media and a number of news websites following the report of their “abduction” and calls to “surface” them. Dyan and Armand were reported found on January 16 in Carmen, Cebu where they were left in a resort by those who took them. The couple said they did not know anything as they were blindfolded the whole time. They also said they were separately interrogated during the days they went missing.

MOST institutions grew far and wide from the seed—to the bud. Some build from the roof to shelter a bunch of first-timers, because the old-timers’ time has just faded or bowed out of the door for the beginners to come and start, and discover when and how to start all by themselves without the guidance of the retirees.

Some thought of building a hospital that might end up becoming a clinic if investment can’t be rolled out for a sustainable medical staff development in decades.

Still others think of building a university named in honor of some great historical figure. But the problem would run similarly accumulative of the fact that a faculty development forms a larger part of the institution building.

Faculty institutions build on career development that in more cases prosper in state universities and colleges than in private institutions. Blame that to salary differentials, fringe benefits, security of tenure and the advantage of career development in most state employment.

In terms of policy and funds appropriations, a legislator, for instance, can think about building more schools and hospitals—but establishing them sustainably would be a different story altogether.

I have seen private individuals who endeavored at building college schools in the city in the 1990s. One stood on its mere façade from an abandoned beer house and was enrolled in, physically by students seen lining up for the morning “flag ceremony” as one passed by on rush hours along Sinsuat Avenue then. The late Pat Diaz foresaw it right in his column that “the (school’s) feasibility study fell through.”

Another one on Kimpo Subdivision was said to be a new tertiary school that parents thought their kids could go to (also in the early 1990’s).

We found out later that some bank managers then had formulated alternatives to “revive” “dead assets” in foreclosed properties in a bid to transform them in the realm of active economic engagements in the community, by utilizing their acquired assets before ultimately policies would have to let them go into public auction.

I was in groups of new and old friends in recent weeks and I seized some moments to share untold stories of the physical transformation of

hinking A loud

Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

In a recent report, Central Visayas Police Regional Director Brig. Gen. Jerry Bearis was cited as saying that they have started looking into the alleged abduction of Gumanao and Dayoha. He was cited as saying there was a need to conduct a “deep, thorough and impartial” probe on the abduction of the couple, assuring transparency in the investigation and immediately updating the parties of developments in the probe.

No less is expected from them. UP Cebu of which Dyan and Armand are both alumni has earlier called for immediate police action on the disappearance of the couple, saying “It is both in the interest of the PNP and UP Cebu for the police to investigate Armand and Dyan’s reported disappearance, and if they are found in danger, for them to be returned to safety so that they can continue working for genuine social change and development by eradicating poverty in the rural areas and the countryside.”

In their statement, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers-Philippines issued a strong call to punish those who have allegedly abducted Dyan and Armand while describing the incident as a “rabid intent” against unions who fight for workers’ rights and decent wages.

Karapatan Central Visayas meanwhile asserted that there is nothing wrong with what Dyan and Armand are doing as development workers and human rights advocates, and they and others like them should not be harassed, threatened, silenced, or arrested.

Danny, Dyan’s father, said that even if their children are already with them, they continue to condemn what happened. They also continue to ask why this happened, why this continues to be the norm for state forces.

Building an institution

B. Maulana nash.penlight@gmail.com

government offices and institutions, from the ORC (Office of the Regional Commissioner) to the LTP (Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook) and thence to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Most of the buildings that we still see standing now were constructed in the mid through the late 70’s in the stewardships and tenures of the ORC and the LTP. The edifices literally held ground to withstand earthquakes, including the August 17, 1977Intensity 7.8 tsunami earthquake that razed to the grounds many of the buildings and establishments that once finely stood in the city.

In the age of millennium, we mention these things in passing not to brag up to high heavens of any human capability to defy Nature. Rather, it is in the context of propriety that things were made, in accordance with how they should be, how they were planned technically—in other words, an institutional evidence of how far, how firm, how strong can we humans be compliant with the dictates of policies and the “Deen” to the fullest.

Indeed, by our own social experience as a people, the autonomous region by whatever way it is, and has been implemented (be it ORC, LTP, ARMM, and BARMM), was built on the ground by the Bangsamoro Struggle.

And by our own experience of institutional transformation from the ORC and LTP to the ARMM and the BARMM), we can always look back with heads held up high to say that this has been us. And all other elements (abus, isis etc.) however undesirable by state reckoning were spontaneous and incidental.

Similarly, one doesn’t start constructing the building from the roof, or the bridge from the beam, but from the bedrock and in the case of bridges, by riverbed on some diverted downstream course.

Nash

COTABATO CITY / ARMM CORRESPONDENTS

John M. Unson, Ferdinandh B. Cabrera, Charlie C. Señase Nash B. Maulana

NORTH / SOUTH COTABATO CORRESPONDENTS

Williamor Magbanua, Romer “Bong” Sarmiento, Roel Osano & Drema Quitayen Bravo CARTOONIST Lourd Jim Diazon

Fr. Rogelio Tabuada, OMI, Chief-Executive-Officer Eva Kimpo - Tan, Editor-in-Chief Edwin O. Fernandez, News Editor Gemma A. Peñaflor, Administration and Marketing Executive Julito P. Torres, Circulation Officer Karl John B. Daniel, Graphic-Layout Artist

Why is this happening in a democracy

Turning Point

Charlie Señase csenase@yahoo.com

IT’Sa question in life on which way to go – Left or Right? In the midst of global sorrow and pain regardless of personalities, the blatant burden on our shoulders is felt for the world to wonder – Why?

A biblical passage in Isaiah 41:10 puzzled many to fathom on “God’s righteous right hand” and not His left. This brings us to the prophetic judgment day when Christ and His angels will gather all nations and separate them as sheep on His right and goats at His left. Then the King will say to those at His right, they are blessed to inherit the kingdom, while those on the left, He said you are cursed and depart from Me into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:31-46).

What is leftist and rightist all about in the world we live in? Why topple government by force and through lawless violence when all authorities that exist come from God? Enough proof when Christ said render to Caesar the things that are Caesar and to God the things that are God’s (Matthew 22:21).

Let’s hold-on to what’s right before God or anything done that delights Him. Hoping with steadfast faith that national and local leaders in government are alongside with the biblical food-for-thought. President Marcos’ frequent travels abroad to meet with political counterparts on ways to improve economy and downgrade inflation seem right only when we allow Divine guidance at all times.

With soaring prices of agricultural products unearthed to be handiwork of hoarders, manipulators, smugglers from unscrupulous business and political moguls – A thorough internal cleansing is a must.

Indeed, God’s wrath is upon us that even a wealthy coastal community in California, USA is not spared of recent weather-related disaster that left casualties and destruction to properties. In like manner the PH’s LPAinduced rains and flashfloods this week, displaced 211,000 out of 1.4 million affected

individuals in the Visayas and Mindanao. The Office of Civil Defense reported 28 fatalities and accounted P274.1 million damage to agriculture and P171.5 million to infrastructure. So far, the OCD said only P74 million was released this week as government assistance by its disaster agency.

Amid bad weather and its destructive effect, the Bangsamoro government in Muslim Mindanao is preparing to hold its weeklong Foundation Anniversary celebration that starts on January 21-27. Its activities will focus on strengthening a united spirit on peaceful coexistence and economic prosperity. BARMM officials led by Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim has underscored the need to set-aside personal interest. As shown by its non-stopped reaching-out activities that included the distribution this week of 800 native chickens to North Cotabato farmers under BARMM’s Special Geographical Area in Kabacan town. It’s close rapport with the European Union, BARMM’s 600 decommissioned MILF combatants directly benefited from the EU-funded technical skills project through non-violence and economic empowerment.

Health Screening Test every woman needs

Healthscreening tests are important for every woman. They can help detect problems with bone mineral density such as osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, and other conditions in the earliest stages when they can be treated most effectively. Exams can detect abnormalities before symptoms are apparent. The types of tests a woman needs depend on her age, personal and family health history, and specific risk factors. Certain tests are recommended for every woman while others are individualized depending on additional risk factors.

CATCH BREAST CANCER EARLY

Breast cancer is most treatable when caught in the earliest stages. In general, the smaller the tumor, the less likely it is to spread to organs or lymph nodes. The American Cancer Society recommends that women in their 20s and 30s have a clinical breast exam (CBE) by a healthcare professional about every 3 years and an exam every year for women 40 years of age and over. A clinical breast exam does not replace breast cancer screening by mammography.

the ages of 50 and 74 have a mammogram every 2 years. Women who have certain risk factors for breast cancer may be advised to follow a different health screening schedule.

GET CHECKED FOR CERVICAL CANCER

-PAP SMEARS ARE CRITICAL FOR DETECTION

With regular Pap smears, cervical cancer (pictured) is easy to prevent. The cervix is a narrow passageway between the uterus (where a baby grows) and the vagina (the birth canal). Pap smears find abnormal cells on the cervix, which can be removed before they ever turn into cancer. The main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a type of STD.

-WHAT IS A PAP TEST?

-GUIDELINES HAVE CHANGED

Mammography is a low-dose X-ray test that may help find a small malignancy at the earliest stages when it is still very treatable. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends a baseline mammogram for all women by age 40 and yearly mammograms for women 40 and older for as long as they are in good health.

During a Pap smear, the physician takes a scraping of cells from the cervix. The cells are analyzed in a lab. The sample can be checked for HPV, the virus that causes cervical malignancies. Other kinds of testing hat can be performed at the time of pelvic examination include tests that can also detect gonorrhea and chlamydia. A woman should be tested for those annually if she is sexually active. Certain STIs increase the potential for health problems in unborn babies, so expectant mothers should be tested for these infections and treated if they test positive for them.

Anything good may be right and biblical, but what really is righteousness with God who promised to look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13). And if we know that God is righteous, we ought to know also that whoever practices righteousness is born of God (1 John 2:29). ). As people of God, we have to proclaim the good news of righteousness in the great assembly without restraint (Psalm 40:9). If mercy and truth joined together, righteousness and peace have kissed, for truth shall spring-out of the earth and righteousness shall look down from heaven, and the LORD will give what is good; that our land will yield its increase and righteousness will go before Him and shall make His footsteps our pathway (Psalm 85:10-13). The works of the LORD are great, honorable and glorious, loved by all who have pleasure in them for God’s righteousness endures forever (Psalm 111:23). And finally, treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness delivers humanity from death (Proverbs 10:2). MC MC

Explore South Cotabato: Hidden Tourist Spots

t he s tuff of l ife

By danielsecotravel.com

Strawberry Guyabano Farm (SG Farm)

Located at the Municipality of Tupi, this tourist spot in South Cotabato is known for its ambiance and of course, its products which are strawberries and guyabanos (soursop). This South Cotabato tourist spot is a perfect place to find peace and joy after a long, stressful week. SG Farm is a great alternative to going to Baguio City as it has the same vibes.

Many adults and teenagers will love this tourist spot in Mindanao not just because of strawberries but also because this is a perfect place to capture Instagramable photos. Strawberry Guyabano Farm will give you an extra special glamping experience. Nothing can go wrong when you have a beautiful sunrise and a view of Mt. Matumtum in the morning.

Magsangyaw Land of Praise

This religious sanctuary located at Mt. Matumtum can surely give your vacation a spiritual touch. It is located on a mountainous peak, that’s why you will surely enjoy the scenic view of this tourist spot in Mindanao. There are also structures in this Cotabato tourist spot which you can enjoy taking pictures of, such as the magic carpet and the broomstick.

And after enjoying the picturesque view of this tourist spot in South Cotabato, you can chill and feel comfortable in their nipa cottages in the mossy forests. There are also stores where you can buy some snacks. Magsangyaw’s entrance fee is only Php 50 per head in the morning (6 AM-5 PM) and Php 100 in the evening (5 PM-6 AM).

The best time to come to this place is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun’s scorching heat.

River Ranch Resort

River Ranch Resort is one of the newest tourist destinations in South Cotabato located at Tupi as well. There are several activities that you can do at the cold water of this resort. First, you can enjoy their natural pools to the feel the fresh turquoise waters. You can also take a walk in their

nature park if you love to relax outdoors. Another activity that you can enjoy at River Ranch resort is outdoor fishing. For just Php 100, you can rent one of River Ranch Resort’s fishing rods and try to catch your next meal in their nearby fishing spot. And if you wish to spend the night there, you can have the best glamping experience in one of their deluxe tents.

Emilio’s Kawa and Flower Garden

Aside from Tupi, Lake Sebu is one of the municipalities known for its tourist spots in South Cotabato. One of these top tourist destinations is Emilio’s Kawa and Flower Garden, located at Brgy. Talisay, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

Emilio’s kawa and Flower Garden is the first-ever flower kawa bath in South Cotabato. The tourist spot in Mindanao does not only offer lush greenery and “kawa bath” perfect for nature lovers.

You can also have an overnight stay and enjoy their golden rice fields and colorful hills in this destination at Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. Their restaurant is also open if you want delightful meals during your visit.

The main attraction of this Cotabato tourist spot, of course, its kawa bath where you bathe and relax in a wok filled with warm water and flower petals that are perfect for relaxation. As of now, Emilio’s Kawa and Flower Garden is still in its developmental stage but rest assured that this tourist spot in Mindanao is ready to accommodate guests.

Mambukal Hot Spring Resort

Mambukal Hot Spring Resort is a tourist spot in South Cotabato where every Cotabato tourist can experience nature’s peace and calmness. It is located in Brgy. Mambucal, Koronadal City, South Cotabato, also known as Marbel, the “Crown City of the South”. According to the Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Museum Unit, this is one of the best tourist attraction sites in South Cotabato.

They also offer huts and lodging for their guests. The best activity you can do here is relax and experience their Sulphur hot springs. The benefits of the natural pools and hot spring include treatment of skin irritations and improvement of blood circulation. The warmth of this tourist spot in Mindanao complements the cold temperature of Koronadal City.

In certain women (those with “lumpy breasts” or breast symptoms, or women with a high risk of developing breast cancer,) sometimes a baseline or first mammogram at 35 years of age is recommended. However, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine mammography screening for women before 50 years of age and suggests that screening end at 74 years of age. The USPSTF suggests that women between

WATCH OUT FOR OSTEOPOROSIS

-FRAGILE BONES AND HEALTH PROBLEMS

Osteoporosis causes weak, fragile bones that are prone to fractures. The condition is more common as women age and lose bone mass. Sometimes, the first symptom of osteoporosis may be a bone break after a relatively minor fall or blow. At least half of all bone breaks in women over the age of 50 in the US are due to osteoporosis. Approximately 25% of bone breaks in men over the age of 50 are due to the condition. Women over the age of 50 should discuss having a bone mineral density test with their doctor. Those age 65 or older should have the test at least once.

So We Want to Be First World….

of agricultural land as it opted to undertake land reform and distributed small parcels of land to farmers. Unfortunately, not all of the beneficiaries of land distribution are interested in using their lands for agricultural activities and/or have the resources to plant or do other productive activities.

tradition.”—Theodore Bikel

“Democracy, good governance, and modernity cannot be imported or imposed from outside a country.”—Emile Lahoud

“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” —John Maxwell

The transformation of a country from a less developed to a modern society involves changes in the structure of the economy, property regime, social policies, and other aspects of society.

In the case of the Philippines, changes in the policies and systems that hinder or slows down the march towards a more modern and progressive state should be dealt with, radically changed when necessary.

What are the major things that prevent the country from moving up and becoming a more modern and equitable society?

The laws of the country regarding property rights, especially those pertaining to real properties, are some of the biggest reasons for social and economic inequities.

For this week, I will discuss issues with land ownership, land use,other land-related issues.

Land had become a major repository of the wealth of individuals and families as there is no legal impediment to the ownership, with the exception of agricultural land. As such, instead of people invest their money on productive activities (e.g. manufacturing or processing businesses), they go on accumulating land, taking advantage of increases in valuation as it becomes scarcer.

On one hand, government have restricted acquisition of big tracts

Rapid transformation of forest land, watershed areas, and agricultural land into residential (since single-detached housing is still the preference in most areas of the country) or commercial use does not augur well for the country’s sustainable development.

To address these land-related concerns, the following policies may be adopted by the Philippine government:

1. Place a limit on the number of years that a parcel of land could be owned by a private individual or company.

2. Promote vertical structures for housing and commercial establishments.

3. Allow companies to own larger tracts of agricultural land as long as such will be continuously used for production.

By placing an expiry on the length of time that a person could utilize and retain possession of a particular piece of land, people will be discouraged from acquiring so much land (for speculation) and would instead use their money for other forms of investment. For example, if a piece of land could just be owned for 50 years (and successors in interest will only be entitled to ownership rights for the balance at the time of sale, people will just buy land that they actually need.

Promoting vertical and multi-story houses and commercial buildings would lessen the number of structures and require less land for these purposes.

The country is currently facing problems with the supply of rice, sugar, onions, and other agricultural commodities. This situation is due to low productivity and the inefficiency of those in the agricultural sector. Allowing people and companies to use larger tracts of land for agricultural purposes would not only improve our productivity but also create additional and more stable employment opportunities.

h e A lth c o R ne R

A reprint from HEALTH FOR ALL. Reviewed By: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

“You don’t really need modernity in order to exist totally and fully. You need a mixture of modernity and

AR ket d R iven

Danny Buenbrazo danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com

fishing hook ingestion.

Workers of Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) rescued the marine turtle and transported to the Marine Wildlife Rescue Center Barangay Ladol, Malapatan where Dr. Roy Mejorada, inhouse veterinarian of SBPS, conducted a surgical operation to remove the steel wire in the turtle's throat.

After successful minor medical work, the rescued Olive Ridley was placed in a recovery area where it regained its appetite and vitality.

The sea creature was released back to its natural habitat along the shores of Barangay Ladol on Friday (January 13).

"We owe it to the quick response of our local partners and ‘Bantay Dagat’ that we were able to do a timely rescue and rehabilitation,” said SBPS Protected Area

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late LAMBERTO LACUMBO PRAGADOS, who died intestate on October 19, 2003, left parcels of land Lot No. 1491, Pls-222, OCT No. V-11349, area of 99,576 sq. mts. in New Panay, M’lang (now Tulunan), Cotabato; Lot 2165B, (LRC) Psd-136752, TCT No. T-32877, area of 46,420 sq. mts. in Tuburan, Tulunan, Cotabato; and untitled land Lot No. 2969-TS268, area of 800 sq. mts. in Poblacion, M’lang, Cotabato; Lot No. 2778, Pls-222, area of 600 sq. mts. and Lot No. 2777, Pls-222, area of 600 sq. mts., more or less, both in Poblacion, Tulunan, Cotabato are subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with deed of partition before Notary Public Jose Robelle C. Portaje as per Doc. No. 484; Page No. 98; Book No. LXXXII; Series of 2023.

MC: Jan. 14, 21 & 28, 2023

Superintendent (PASu) Joy Ologuin.

Earlier, on January 10, environmentalists also released in Sarangani Bay a critically endangered female hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) after 74 days of recuperation in Pawikan Rescue Center in Barangay Burias in the town of Glan.

Dr. Rosalinda Cortez, DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer

(CENRO) of Glan, said the weak and stranded turtle was rescued by barangay officials along the shores of Barangay Big Margus at the height of tropical storm “Paeng” in October 28 last year.

Based on the assessment of CENRO Glan Ecosystems Management Specialist I Marivic G. Quisto, the sea turtle is healthy and fit for release.

Hawksbill sea turtles are categorized

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

P1

as critically endangered species.

Sarangani provincial environment officer Maria Elvira Lumayag has urged the people along the coast of Sarangani Bay to keep all beaches clean to allow “pawikans” to lay eggs.

"During this turtle nesting season, we highly encourage our stakeholders, coastal communities, and local industries to keep our beaches clean to give

ADJUDICATION

BY SOLE HEIR

ample space for the marine turtles to lay their eggs," she said.

Lumayag said Sarangani Bay is home to four species of marine turtle such as the the Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta), and the critically endangered Hawksbill

Republic of the Philippines Pikit, Cotabato

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata).

She urged the public to contribute in making Sarangani Bay a “pawikan-friendly bay.”

“If you spot a pawikan coming ashore, you should keep your distance and report the incident to your local Bantay Dagat, MENRO/CENRO, or nearest DENR Office. Edwin O. Fernandez

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

SDC SPL. PROC. NO. 2022-578 IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ERRONEOUS ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH UNDER REGISTRY NO. 2015-08 IN THE NAME OF FAHAD BLAH RAPA

FAHAD BLAH RAPA Petitoner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF MAMASAPANO, MAGUINDANAO PROVINCE Respondent. x———————————x

ORDER

Filed with this Court is a petition for correction of erroneous entries in the Certificate of Live Birth of the petitioner, FAHAD BLAH RAPA who alleged, among others: That his parents are Rapa Dalangalan Tiago and Nor-ain Ahmad Puasa; That he was born on January 01, 2003 at Bagumbong, Mamasapano, Maguindanao; That in his Certificate of Live Birth, the name of his mother was erroneously entered as “Gandalia Idza Blah” instead of “Nor-ain Ahmad Puasa”; That his middle name was erroneously entered as “Blah” instead of “Puasa”; That Gandalia Izda Blah is not the biological mother of petitioner but the one who took care of him when his mother Nor-ain Ahmad Puasa was working abroad, and; That the purpose of filing this petition is to straighten petitioner’s record, not to deceive anybody.

The Court after reading the petition finds the same sufficient in form and substance.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Spouses SALILAGUIA K. MASABPI and PINDA B. MASABPI who died on February 27, 1990 and November 4, 1992, respectively in Brgy. Poblacion VII, Cotabato City, a parcel of land Lot 6990, Buluan Pls-73, containing an area of 97,785 sq. mts., more or less, covered by OCT No. (V-334) P-149 is subject of extrajudicial settlement with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Agnes r. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 080; Page No. 080; Book No. XXIX; Series of 2023. MC: Jan. 14, 21 & 28, 2023

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MACARIO B. BEGONIA, who died intestate on June 24, 1985 in Libungan, Cotabato, a parcel of land Lot No. 188, Pls134, containing an area of 66,061 sq. mts., more or less, covered by OCT No. P-37678, located in Montay, Midsayap now Libungan, Cotabato is subject of adjudication by sole heir with simultaneous deed of absolute sale of a portion of land before Notary Public Noel A. Gretare, CPA as per Doc. No. 4315; Page No. 17; Book No. LXXXVIII; Series of 2022.

Mc: Jan. 14, 21 & 28, 2023

NOTICE

VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I AND BRANCH II will hold a public auction sale of all unredeemed and unrenewed items pawned from July 1 to August 31, 2022 on February 8, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. at VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., and VGM PAWNSHOP INC. II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City

Be There, Management

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1 Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Enrique J. Macaraeg Jr. has filed with this office, a petition for change of day of birth December 10, 1972 to December 18, 1972 in the certificate of live birth of Enrique Junio Macaraeg, Jr. at Pikit, Cotabato and whose parents are Enrique Junio Macaraeg Sr. and Natividad Junio.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than 28 January 2023.

(Sgd.) MICHAEL C. TOBIAS, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar Mc: Jan. 14 & 21, 2023

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1 Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 series of 2012 (IRR on R.A 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Datu Puti Masukat Gayak has filed with this office a petition for change of day of birth 21 December 1992 to 15 December 1992 in the certificate of live birth of Datu Puti Masukat Gayak who was born on December 21, 1992 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Ali M. Gayak and Sona A. Masukat.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this office of Municipal Civil Registrar, Midsayap, Cotabato.

(Sgd.) NORAH B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar Mc: Jan. 14 & 21, 2023

SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

SUBASTA

Ang VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I ug BRANCH II magsubasta sa tanan nga wala lukata ug wala tubui gikan sa bulan sa Hulyo 1 hangtud sa bulan sa Agosto 31, 2022 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag karung Pebrero 8, 2023 sa VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., ug sa VGM PAWNSHOP BRANCH II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City.

MC: Jan. 14, 21 & 28, 2023

Ang Nagdumala

PAWNSHOP MAIN, BRANCH I, II & III Don Rufino

Notice for Auction

All unredeemed articles pledged on July 2022 will be auctioned on February 1, 2023 at 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Please come before February 1, 2023 for renewal or redemption.

Patalastas ng Subasta

MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/R.A. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Mary Jane Seguiente Caspe has filed with this office a petition for change of date of birth from 10 April 1979 to 29 March 1979 in the birth certificate of Mary Jane Seguiente Caspe who was born on April 10, 1979 at Sarmiento, Parang, Maguindanao and whose parents are Antonio Galache Caspe and Estelita Seguiente.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than February 1, 2023.

(Sgd.) KARIM O. OMAR, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Jan. 21 & 28, 2023

WHEREFORE, premises considered, the case is set for hearing on February 8, 2023 at 8:30 in the morning. The petitioner must cause the publication of this Order once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation. Furnish copy of this petition to the Honorable Solicitor General for information and proper representation. Anybody who maybe prejudiced by this petition may file his/her comment thereto, or appear on said hearing and show cause why this petition should not be granted.

SO ORDERED.

Marawi City for Cotabato City, Philippines, December 15, 2022.

(Sgd.) Hon. RASAD S. LAGUINDAB Acting Presiding Judge

MC: Jan. 14, 21 & 28, 2023

SULTAN PAWNSHOP

corner Bonifacio and Don Rufino Alonzo Sts., Cotabato City

Ang Sultan Pawnshop ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong Hulyo 2022. Ang subasta ay sa Pebrero 1, 2023 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng mga umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Jan. 14 & 21, 2023

Lahat ng sangla noong Hulyo 2022 ay ipagbibili ng Subasta sa February 1, 2023 sa ganap na ika-8:30 ng umaga hanggang ika4:30 ng hapon. Kung maari ay pumunta bago ang February 1, 2023 para sa pagbayad ng tubo o pagtubos.

MC: Jan. 14 & 21, 2023

Notice for Auction

Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV in Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak announce the Auction Sale of all unredeemed pledges contracted January 3-30, 2022 at 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main 4J Bldg. Corner Jose Lim Sr., and Don Roman Vilo St. Cotabato City. Auction sale will be on January 25, 2023.

Patalastas ng Subasta

Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de OroPawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV sa Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong Enero 3-30, 2022 sa alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:00 ng hapon sa Agencia de OroJose Lim Branch, corner Jose Lim Sr, and Don Roman Vilo St., Cotabato City sa Enero 25, 2023.

MC: Jan. 14 & 21, 2023

WE, TENG B. DALINDING, BEDIR TUMINDEG KADATUAN, ABDULKAHAR B. AMPILAN, IBRAHIM A. PUNDAG, ALLADIN R. MATAS, and FATIMA D. ABDULLAH, H. SALIK BACAR ESMAEL, all legal age, Filipinos and all residents of Cotabato City, Philippines, respectively all heirs/relatives of the late DATU WALIA USONG, married to KADIGUIA DAUD (deceased) who died intestate sometime in 1962 at Bario Kakar, Cotabato City, have made constituent and appoint I hereby name constitute, and appoint BEDIR TUMINDEG KADATUAN and TENG B. DALINDING, both heirs likewise of legal age, Filipinos, married and presently residing at Cotabato City, to be my true and lawful attorney-in-fact for me and in my name, place, and stead to do and perform the following acts and deeds, wit:

1. To transact, follow-up, verify and ask pertaining papers/documents of a parcel of land containing an area of 1,882,011 square meters, more or less, being a portion of Lot No. 232, new B-2-B situated in Kakar, Cotabato City;

2. To decide, sign and receive in our behalf any papers/documents and perform such other acts and thing and/or related works for the documentation or having any case against the respondent who may be liable in the occupation and cultivation of the above-described parcel of land;

3. To contract of hire lawyer counsel to personally represent us any court of justice and any court proceedings; and

4. We are the heirs of the late DATU WALIA USONG owners of the said real property and we divide equally our shares among the heirs.

HEREBY GIVING AND GRANTING unto my said attorney full powers and authority to do perform all and every act requisite or necessary to carry into effect the foregoing authority as fully to all intents and purposes as I might or could lawfully do if personally present, and hereby, ratifying and confirming all that my said attorney shall lawfully do or cause to be done under the by virtue hereof was the subject of a SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY by the Sole Heir and among the Heirs before Notary Public Atty. Mohammad Jameel A. Singh as per Doc No. 304; Page No. 61; Book No. 23; Series of 2023.

Serpent eagle, 2 sea turtles sent back to the wild in Sox ...from

RANEN

Alonzo & Don Tomas Martinez Sts, Cot. City

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT 5th SHARI’A DISTRICT COURT Cotabato City

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parang, Maguindanao OFFICE OF THE

Creation of 8 new BARMM towns on

Residents of what is now known as the Special Geographic Area of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao voted in favor of the inclusion of their barangays into the proposed core territory of BARMM during a plebiscite in early 2019.

The physician Kadil Sinolinding, a member of the 80-seat BARMM parliament, said Saturday there is a proposal each for the creation of the eight municipalities that would cover 63 predominantly Moro SGA barangays.

“There is a need to establish these municipalities so that new local government units can oversee the communities it shall cover that got detached from different towns under Cotabato province in 2019,” Sinolinding said.

The BARMM only has political and administrative control over the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi and the cities of Cotabato, Marawi and Lamitan.

Residents of the 63 barangays, originally under Cotabato towns covered by Region 12, told reporters Saturday they are grateful to Sinolinding and four other BARMM parliament members, Datu Jambo Matalam, Kelly Antao, Suharto Ambolodto and Paisalin Tago, for helping initiate the establishment of the eight towns.

Barangay officials and traditional Moro elders in the 63 barangays said they are optimistic the BARMM parliament will approve the creation of the eight towns within 2023.

The enabling bills for the creation of the eight towns had been filed at the BARMM regional parliament based in this city last year.

Barangay officials, members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation

Front in the SGA barangays had repeatedly ranted, in previous peace dialogues organized by Sinolinding’s office, about the separation, without what is for them "fallback preparation," of their communities from LGUs under Cotabato province.

“Grouping these 63 barangays into eight different municipalities will address that issue. The local communities shall have new LGUs that can serve local residents and implement community peace and development projects,” Ambolodto, a lawyer, said Saturday.

Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza and Congresswoman Samantha Santos separately assured on Saturday of their support to the proposed creation of the eight municipalities.

“These barangays are no longer under our jurisdiction but the provincial government has not stopped from helping provide residents with vital government services,” Mendoza said.

Mendoza, chairperson of the multi-sector Regional Development Council 12, said her administration is also for the creation of eight BARMM-led LGUs to oversee the 63 SGA barangays.

“We also have a continuing focus on how we can support socio-economic projects of the BARMM government for MILF and MILF communities in the SGA barangays,” Mendoza said.

Both fronts have separate peace agreements with Malacañang.

Santos, a first term congressional representative of the 3rd district of Cotabato, said residents of SGA are to benefit too from her office since their barangays are in towns in the district she is representing in the House of Representatives. JFU

2 MNLF dead, 6 hurt in gun attacks

TWO were killed while six others were hurt in separate gunfights here and in nearby Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte between late Tuesday and before dawn Wednesday.

Col. Querubin Manalang, director of the Cotabato City Police Office, told reporters Wednesday two members of the Moro National Liberation Front were killed while five others were hurt when men armed with assault rifles from Barangay Bitu in Datu Odin Sinsuat town attacked their village in Barangay Tamontaka 2 here early Wednesday, sparking a gunfight.

“Our personnel who went to the scene of the encounter to investigate found out that two MNLF members were killed while five more were wounded in the encounter,” Manalang said.

He said the group that attacked the MNLF’s enclave in Barangay Tamontaka 2 is led by a certain Sammy, who has enemies in the area.

Manalang declined to reveal the names of the MNLF fatalities and their wounded companions due to possible retaliations by relatives residing in

Manalang said investigators are still trying to determine what precipitated the deadly gunfight in Barangay Tamontaka 2 that waned only after Sammy and his followers scampered away when they sensed that responding policemen were closing in.

The incident was preceded by sporadic exchanges of gunfire that lasted for about two hours on Tuesday night between two heavily armed groups in Barangay Sapalan in Datu Odin Sinsuat, about 25 kilometers south of this city.

In a report to the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region Wednesday, the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station said a 65-year-old villager named Edna Pablo Urbano was wounded in the crossfire as the two groups, one led by Mohaimin Abas and the other by Eden Mantawil, traded shots.

Traditional Moro elders and local officials told reporters the duo are locked in a deep-seated political dispute. JFU

SIX more members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters surrendered to the Army Sunday.

Major Gen. Roy Galido, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said Monday the six men renounced their BIFF membership during a simple rite at the headquarters of the 1st Mechanized Battalion in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town in Maguindanao del Sur.

They also turned in a 60 millimeter mortar, assault rifles and improvised explosive devices.

Galido declined to reveal the exact identities of the six BIFF members who have returned to the fold of law pending their relocation to safe areas.

The BIFF has a reputation for venting ire on members who have availed of 6th ID’s local reconciliation program for violent religious extremists.

“These six BIFF members agreed to surrender through the intercession of local executives in different towns in Maguindanao del Sur and the officials of the 1st Mechanized Battalion and the 1st Mechanized Brigade,” Galido said.

More than 200 BIFF members have surrendered to units of 6th ID in central Mindanao in the past 14 months.

The group and its two allies, the Dawlah Islamiya and the Al-Khobar, are together tagged in all deadly bombings in the region since 2014.

AUTHORITIES arrested Tuesday in President Roxas, North Cotabato a wanted bomb-maker of the Dawlah Islamiya wanted for deadly bombings in central Mindanao.

Brig. Gen. Roy Galido, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, and Brig. Gen. Jamili Macaraeg, director of the Police Regional Office-12, separately confirmed Wednesday the arrest of the suspect, Jordan Akmad, now detained.

Local officials in the adjoining Maguindanao and Cotabato

provinces

Galido said personnel of the 602nd Brigade, the 90th and 72nd Infantry Battalions and policemen from units of PRO-12 cornered Akmad in his hideout in Barangay Salat in President Roxas, a hinterland town in North Cotabato, before dawn Tuesday.

Akmad voluntarily turned himself in when policemen showed him copies of warrants for his

arrest in connection with multiple murder and multiple frustrated murder cases pending in different courts in Mindanao.

He was also implicated in recent bus bombings in the neighboring North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato provinces.

The Dawlah Islamiya and its two allies, the Al-Khobar and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, have a reputation for bombing public conveyances and business establishments whose owners refuse to pay “protection money” on a monthly basis. JFU

FREED. Environmentalists in Malapatan, Sarangani prepare to send back to the wild a female Olive Ridley sea turtle, stranded due to fishing hook ingestion, after few days of rehabilitation at the Marine Wildlife Rescue Center

STAKEHOLDERS are expecting the approval within 2023 of separate proposals to create eight towns out of the 63 Bangsamoro barangays in Cotabato province in Region 12.

Photo courtesy of DENR Soccsksargen

Suspect in YBL bombings, arson falls in NoCot

6 more BIFF members surrender to Army

Datu Odin Sinsuat against their attackers from the municipality once they would know.

JFU

told reporters Wednesday Akmad belongs to the Hassan faction of the Dawlah Islamiya, tagged in deadly bombings in central Mindanao since 2014.

DETAINED. Alleged Dawlah Islamiya bomb-maker Jordan Akmad is now in the custody of the police. He was nabbed by soldiers and policemen last Tuesday in President Roxas, Cotabato.

Photo courtesy of 602nd Infantry Brigade