The Mindanao Cross | February 4, 2023

Congratulations to the Mindanao Cross for celebrating her 75 years of service to the constituents of Mindanao. The “Little paper with a big cause” has touched and affected the lives of the people in so many ways through her truthful information of real events happening not only in Mindanao but also in the whole country and the world; insights and commentaries on real events that provoke critical thinking; reflections on the Word of God that inspire and guide people to be better individuals promoting peace, unity and justice; issues on health as well as other concerns relevant to our life today.

In the name of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate of the Philippine Province, I extend to her the blessings of our One, True, Almighty and Ever Living God. May she continue making a difference to the lives of the people through her untiring commitment and service.

We reached the DIAMOND!

Thank God we persisted despite the terrible events that came our way – the earthquake, the storms, the COVID pandemic. It made us older but stronger. As retired Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo said on our 70th anniversary celebration five years ago, the papers role in bringing truth and promoting justice and peace is not only in Central Mindanao but in the whole island as embodied in its vision and mission. “The Big Cause of this Little Paper is the Truth of Peace and Solidarity. Peace as the cessation of hostilities in Mindanao and Peace as we all wish it to be. Peace to the heart of every Mindanaon and Solidarity as the unity and collaboration at all Mindanaons especially with those who are marginalized and excluded in the process of development.”

I wish to congratulate the Mindanao Cross on its 75th anniversary. Surely, it was through divine inspiration that the first Oblate missionaries responded to the need for social communication, particularly the print media in this part of the country. Seventy-five years post its foundation, The Mindanao Cross, one of the oldest newspapers in the Philippines, has indeed withstood manifold challenges and remained true to its mission of being the “little paper with a big cause.” Journeying with the people of Mindanao with various cultures, faiths, and tribes enriched throughout different epochs and evolution of Philippine society, this provincial newsprint has humbly walked the path of peace- building through just and objective journalism.

Truly, this is the time to celebrate and thank God the Almighty for the gracefilled years, especially for all the people who have significantly contributed to the growth of this weekly paper. We are grateful to the many individuals who, both past and present, performed the role as chief editors, news writers, contributors, staff, and all the countless readers and subscribers. As the years ahead bode well with opportunities for all the local inhabitants here in the southern Philippines, the task remains for the cross section of Mindanao society to protect the many gains which we now enjoy and continue working together toward achieving the values of peace, inclusivity, and justice. Hopefully, the Mindanao

DID YOU KNOW?

Diamond Anniversaries

Currently two DIAMOND anniversaries are celebrated – one at 60 and one at 75 years. The 75th anniversary is the original diamond anniversary and the 60th was added when Queen Victoria (English Empire Monarch) celebrated her Diamond Jubilee on her 60th anniversary of accession to the throne in 1897.

MESSAGE

I wish to congratulate the management, staff, and contributors of The Mindanao Cross on its 75th anniversary this February 6; and to the Oblates of Mary Immaculate that sees to its publication. It is a time of celebration, of thanksgiving to the Lord and of recommitment to this mission of spreading news to the people of this region.

The Mindanao Cross is now focusing on peace development in our region as a major objective. How truly relevant this is in our day! We have to build a critical-minded peace constituency. We have to erase cultural and religious biases and prejudices. We have to know the root causes of conflict as well as the fundamental aspirations of all the people in our region. We have to contribute our share towards the lasting solution of conflicts and divisions.

Towards these objectives, The Mindanao Cross is contributing its own share. It does so by striving to report events objectively without sensationalizing, to present issues without partiality or bias, and to analyze developments without being judgmental. Such objective and impartial treatment of news in Cotabato and Mindanao is not always done in national media, written or broadcast.

My prayers are for all of you who make this "Little Paper with a Big Cause such a wonderful part of the mass media. Once again, my warmest congratulations.

“HFM” DISEASE HITS KIDAPAWAN, SOCOT TOWN

By Edwin O. Fernandez

A Kidapawan City health official has raised the alarm bell over rising cases of the highly contagious Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) while a disaster official said the virus that hit Banga town has slowly been contained.

The municipal disaster office said 51 patients were confirmed to have the HFMD, mostly children in 15 of 22 villages in the town of Banga.

“In 2022, we only monitored about 21 cases but in January alone this year, Kidapawan City has 48 cases in 40 villages, and probably this is under-reported,” Dr. Jose Martin M. Evangelista, Pediatrician

ng City Health Office told DXND Radyo Bida. He said the virus usually hit 5 years old and below, especially the one year old and below.

Evangelista said efforts from the city health office and the local government are under to contain the spread of the disease.

In Banga, Joseph Franco, municipal

disaster risk reduction and management officer, said the HFMD was confirmed in the village of Rizal Poblacion, Parreo Street, Barrio 9 and Punong Grande.

“Since most of the patients were children and coming from one or two schools, we already conducted disinfection in at least two elementary schools,” Franco told DXOM Radyo Bida in Koronadal.

“All the children who have been diagnosed with the disease are now on a 10-day isolation in their respective homes,” Franco said.

He said parents have confirmed that their children first complained of sore throat, fever and show wounds around the mouth, in their hands and feet.

“We thought it was it was a case

3 sued for P596,960 worth of shabu in Lanao

Fr. Gerry Gamaliel de los Reyes, OMI Provincial Superior

Fr. Rogelio C. Tabuada, OMI Chief Executive Officer

+ORLANDO B. CARDINAL QUEVEDO, OMI Retired Archbishop of Cotabato

More peace programs under new 6th ID chief

THE new commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, Major Gen. Alex Rellira has assured to sustain and even expand 6th ID’s peace programs aiming to secure the surrender of more violent religious extremists and members of the New People’s Army.

Rillera took over the 6th ID’s leadership from the now WestMinCom chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido in a turnover rite here Friday, January 27, officiated by Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr.

Galido was commander of the 6th ID from August 2022 until he took over WestMinCom’s highest post also last week.

Rillera told reporters he will sustain the peacebuilding projects of his predecessors, particularly in securing the surrender and reintroduction into mainstream society of New People’s Army guerillas and members of local terrorists groups inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

“I’m confident the new division commander, Gen. Rillera, will do better than us, who led the 6th ID before him,” Galido

said after the turnover of command.

Galido and Rillera had separately assured of their support, as 6th ID and WestMinCom commander, respectively, to the peace programs of the Bangsamoro government and Malacañang that aim to put diplomatic closure to the “Moro issue” hounding Mindanao since the 1970s.

Units of the 6th ID and local government officials in central Mindanao had, since 2017, secured the surrender in batches of more than 400 members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and its allies, the Dawlah Islamiya and the AlKhobar.

No fewer than 200 NPAs had also returned to the fold of law, through the intercession of the 6th ID and local executives, in the past 14 months. JFU

Kidapawan’s fruit plantations hit by fungus

KIDAPAWAN CITY — Vast fruit tree plantations in at least 26 of the 40 villages in this city have been hit by a fungus called algal spots disease, an agriculture expert confirmed Thursday.

Elpedio Gaspan, the city assistant agriculturist, disclosed that at least 900 hectares of fruit trees have been infected and can no longer bear fruits due to infestations that was earlier reported in 2019.

Gaspan said the infestation affected a total of 1,041 fruit growers and farmers. Most of the fruit trees plantations are already in a productive stages thus affecting the development of its fruits.

Hardest hit fruit varieties are lanzones, rambutan, mangosteen, mango, cacao and even oil palm plantations.

"Our office has documented at least 932 hectares of fruit trees that were damaged due to infestations," Gaspan said.

Gaspan said spots brought by fungus will cover the entire leaf preventing the process of photosynthesis to nourish the trees in order to produce good quality of fruits.

He recommended that a synchronized spraying of fungicide is necessary to

prevent the spread further of the fungus.

However, he suggested to the fruit growers to use power spray or drone sprayers in treating the trees.

"This is to ensure that the fungicides can penetrate in every leaf of the tree to kill and prevent the spread of the disease,” Gaspan said.

He admitted that he was sad despite massive information campaign and dispersal of free fungicide only few farmers have availed of it.

"In fact out of more than a thousand farmers affected, only 26 of them availed our free fungicide to combat the disease," Gaspan said.

Mayor Jose Paolo Evangelista has ordered the city agriculture office to strengthen their information dissemination campaign and encourage farmers to avail of free fungicides.

More known as the "City of fruits and highland springs" due to abundance of fruits, the city council approved an ordinance for the conduct of annual fruit festival every August.

Due to the dwindling and scarcity of tropical fruits brought by the infestations, officials believed it could affect future fruit festival celebrations WM

MP Sinolinding seeks creation of Bangsamoro Popcom

A member of parliament in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is seeking to establish the Bangsamoro Commission on Population Management and Development (BCPD) to ensure an improve mechanism in the implementation of the Philippine population management program in the region.

On Wednesday, MP Sinolinding, an eye doctor, said he filed the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Bill No. 110 or the proposed Bangsamoro Commission on Population and Development Act of 2022, “seeking to create an enabling environment for people to achieve their development goals through a wellmanaged population.”

Sinolinding said a well-managed population is one that realizes population processes and outputs that are consistent, complementary, and facilitative to the region’s socioeconomic and human development.

Under the proposal, the proposed BCPD which will be under or attached agency of the Bangsamoro Planning

and Development Authority (BPDA), will be in charge of recommending, planning, coordinating, executing, and monitoring population management and development policies and programs in the Bangsamoro region. The commission will have the same structure as that of the Population Commission (PopCom), supervised by the National Economic and Development Authority, for efficient mechanisms from the national to the local level.

Once enacted into law, the BCPD office will also create the Population Management and Development Program (PMDP), in the context of human rights, gender equality, and existing cultural norms and religious convictions of the people, to ensure sustainable human and socio-economic development and better health outcomes in the region.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) 2020 Census Population and Housing results, BARMM recorded 4.4 million population, a 3.26 percent increase from 2.89 percent in 2015. EOF

BARMM releases P21-M to Mercury Drug for indigent patients

INDIGENT patients in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) can now avail of free medical assistance from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) through Mercury Drug pharmacies, officials said today.

This after MSSD Minister Atty. Raissa Jajurie issued a P21 million worth of checks to Mr. Daniel Ulep, Mercury Drug Cotabato branch manager to efficiently provide medical services for indigent patients in need.

It was held at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex inside BARMM government center on Jan. 26 as the region celebrates its 4th founding anniversary.

Patients holding referral from MSSD can withdraw medicine from Mercury Drug Pharmacy branches in in Cotabato City, Tacurong City, Iligan City, Zamboanga

OFFICIALS were elated with how the 4th founding anniversary celebration of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) went, grateful to all sectors that supported the activities during the weeklong event.

BARMM Senior Minister Abdulrauf Macacua said Thursday he is grateful to the police and the military for ensuring the safety of the BARMM capitol as the 4th regional merrymaking proceeded.

“For that we are thankful to the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and the 6th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army,” Macacua said.

Transportation and Communication Minister Paisalin Tago told reporters he was elated with how employees of agencies under

– City, Midsayap and Kabacan branches, both in North Cotabato.

Minister Jajurie said the amount aims to enhance the delivery of MSSD’s Bangsamoro Critical Assistance for Indigents in Response to Emergency Situations (B-CARES) Program for indigent patients to immediately receive the medicines they urgently need.

Jajurie said patients or their authorized representavtives will be interviewed and assessed by social workers to determine if they qualify as beneficiaries of the program.

"Once deemed qualified, a guaranty letter will be issued, they can proceed to Mercury Drug to get the medicine," Jajurie said.

She added that patients seeking assistance may go to MSSD’s office and present the prescription of the medicines,

him participated in all of the activities during the celebration of BARMM’s 4th founding anniversary.

“There was enormous zeal, utmost enthusiasm among them,” Tago said.

The BARMM was established in early 2019, after residents in its proposed core territory then --- the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Cotabato, Lamitan and Marawi --- voted for the ratification of its charter, the Republic Act 11054.

The creation of BARMM was premised on two compacts between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the 2012 Framework on Bangsamoro and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on

which includes the date of issuance of the prescription, complete name, and the PRC license number and signature of the attending physician.

"Through this, the indigent patients or a representative will no longer go through tedious process of seeking assistance from BARMM,” Jajurie added. “We have no program like this in the past, so indigent Bangsamoro are luckier now.”

Mercury Ulep lauded MSSD BARMM for choosing Mercury Drug company as partner in providing fast, right and adequate health services for the indigents.

"Hopefully, this program will continue to help make life easy for indigents, especially those in need of immediate medication,” Ulep said. “Mercury Drug is a happy and efficient MSSD partner.” EOF

Bangsamoro, replacing the less empowered Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“The creation of BARMM was not an easy process. It is, thus, fitting to commemorate its creation every January,” BARMM’s Deputy

Senior Minister Abdullah Cusain said.

Cusain said he and Macacua are also grateful to the provincial and city officials in all of BARMM component provinces and cities for their presence in some of the important events at the regional capitol.

Regional spokesperson Naguib Sinarimbo, who is BARMM’s local government minister, said the seven day 4th regional anniversary celebration was a showcase of what the still infant Bangsamoro government had accomplished in 48 months and what it aims to do in years to come in

terms of governance and in furthering the Mindanao peace process.

Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr., who was special guest to an event facilitated by Sinarimbo’s office during the anniversary feast, had said in a message that he was impressed with how far the Bangsamoro government had gone in strengthening governance in its territory, in the context of autonomy based in RA 11054.

The celebration was capped off with presentations that showed the religious and cultural solidarity among BARMM residents, according to Brig Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the regional police.

“That for me is so important because I belong to an indigenous community in Luzon,” he said. JFU

NEW OVERSEER. Major Gen. Alex Rellira (left) was installed Friday, January 27, as new commander of the 6th Infantry Division by Philippine Army’s top officer, Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr. in a symbolic rite held at Camp Siongco, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.

Photo by John Felix Unson

Cotabato city

SPL. PROC. CASE NO. 2022-1601

IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE

BIRTH OF DJENABA LYNN ANDOL MAÑARA UNDER LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY NO. 2001-2127

DJENABA LYNN MAÑARA NERI Petitioner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, FLORANTE A. NERI, JESUSIMA M. NERI, DESIREE MAÑARA NERI, PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF DAVAO OCCIDENTAL AND CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION REGION XI, Respondents. x--------------------------------------------x

ORDER

A verified petition was filed by the petitioner, assisted by counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY to correct the following entries in the Certificate of Live Birth of DJENABA

LYNN MAÑARA NERI, under Local Civil Registry No. 2001-2127, to wit:

iii. Petitioner’s middle name, from ANDOL to MAÑARA; and

iv. Petitioner’s last name, from MAÑARA to NERI;

An Order be issued allowing the Petitioner to be able to retain her surname, NERI by virtue of being a legitimated child of private respondents FLORANTE and JESUSIMA; FINDING the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on March 28, 2023 at 1:30 o’clock in the afternoon, 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 16th day of January, 2023.

(Sgd.) KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN

Acting Presiding Judge

MC: Jan. 28, Feb 4 & 11, 2023

SPECIAL PROCEEDING CASE NO. 2022-1575

IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF DESIREE ANDOL MAÑARA UNDER LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY NO. 97-70,

DESIREE MAÑARA NERI, Petitioner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, FLORANTE NERI, JESUSIMA M. NERI AND DJENABA MAÑARA NERI, Respondents, x--------------------------------------x

ORDER A verified petition has been filed with this Court by the Petitioner through counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an Order be issued directing the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Cotabato City to correct the Certificate of Live Birth of DESIRRE MAÑARA NERI under Local Civil Registry No. 97-70. Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, it is hereby ordered that the said petition be set for hearing before this Court on March 7, 2023 at 1:30 in the afternoon, at which place, date and time, all interested parties are required to appear and show cause, if they have any, why the petition should not be granted.

WHEREFORE, let this Order be published in a newspaper accredited, 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 and at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

GIVEN this 30th of January, 2023 at Cotabato City, Philippines.

(Sgd.) ANNABELLE D. P. PIANG Acting Presiding Judge

MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

NOTICE OF LOSS

Collection Receipt Series

CR E# 15494-15500 of Visayas Ram Cycles, Inc (RUSI) under the custodianship of Lorben Jay C. Montejo, resident of Salimbao, Sultan Kudarat are no longer found and deemed lost, therefore, null and void effective immediately.

Visayas Ram Cycles, Inc. will no longer honor any transaction involving any of the aforementioned series of receipts.

MC: Feb. 4, 2023

MISSING PERSON

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC that URBANO EBALLES CEDEÑO who was born on April 07, 1927, 95 years old, Filipino citizen and a residence of Midsayap, North Cotabato and married to a certain FLAVIA SUMALPONG was MISSING since he left his hometown last January 1986. Until this date and time of reporting said missing person has nowhere to found.

IF FOUND in your respective area, PLEASE CONTACT

MRS. FE B. APATAN MRS. ELVIE BIGTASIN

0910-908-4044

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

0909-265-9677

MC: Jan. 28, Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL

SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ELEUTERIO CALUNGSOD, who died on May 2, 1991 at San Isidro, Midsayap, Cotabato, and wife LUCIANA JUMUAD CALUNGSOD, a parcel of land Lot No. 2404-B,Psd-27275, covered by TCT No. T-4803, located at Barrio Katingawan now (San Isidro) Midsayap, Cotabato with an area of 118,024 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with partition among heirs before Notary Public Teresita Carreon Llaban as per Doc. No. 40; Page No. 08; Book No. 23; Series of 2022.

MC: Jan. 28, Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late LUISA ASUNCION BUENO, who died intestate on January 20, 2023 in Midsayap, Cotabato, left a bank deposits at Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), Midsayap Branch under Savings Account No. 0133-0024-78 is subject of extrajudicial settlement with waiver of rights with deed of indemnity before Notary Public Renie Jay Abad Soriano as per Doc. No. 481; Pahe No. 97; Book No. XXXVII; Series of 2023. MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late CONCORDIA YAP, who died intestate in General Santos City, on December 02, 2022, left parcels of land Lot 2586-G-29-D, (LRC) Psd-114673, TCT No. T-28153, area of 1,027 sq. mts. in Katingawan, Midsayap, Cotabato; Lot No. 1890, TCT No. T-6664, area of 72,516 sq. mts. in Municipal District of Dalauan; Lot No.10 Bsd-11551, OCT No. P-57851 Free Patent No. FP-124709-92-820P, area of 227 sq. mts., more or less are subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Teresita Carreon Llaban as per Doc. No. 130; Page No. 26 Book No. XXVII; Series of 2023. MC: Jan. 28, Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Leah C. Cajutol has filed with this office, a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the birth certificate of Arly Cantallopez Cajutol who was born on 18 July 2006 at Pentil, Aleosan, Cotabato and whose parents are Arnel C. Cajutol and Leah O. Cantallopez. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than 6 February 2023.

(Sgd.) MARILOU G. NANLABI Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato City of Kidapawan LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Mariel Angelo N. Ferrer has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Mariel to Mariel Angelo in the birth certificate of Mariel Ng Ferrer who was born on 12 July 1989 at Kidapawan, Cotabato and whose parents are Mario Ferrer and Marichu Ng. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office.

(Sgd.) MERCEDES P. TOLENTINO Acting Civil Registrar

MC: Jan. 28 & Feb 4, 2023

Shaping Public Policy for Peace and Good Governance

The Institute for Autonomy and Governance congratulates the Mindanao Cross on its 75th foundation anniversary. For more than seven (7) decades, Mindanao Cross has not only reported the developments and upheavals in Mindanao. It has, more importantly, helped shape perceptions and public policies towards a just, humane and open society as envisioned by its founder, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. The call for a peaceful, caring, and prosperous Mindanao made 75 years ago by the founding fathers of Mindanao Cross rings true today.

Today, our quest for sustainable peace and development is facing many challenges. Intolerance, bigotry and dominance of self-interests over the common good threaten our communities which long for a peaceful and prosperous life. For good or bad, social media is the main source of fast but not always reliable and credible information and analysis of news and developments. Mindanao Cross has reinvented itself not only as broadsheet but also gaining a significant presence in social media. The “little paper with a big cause” may have joined the bandwagon along the modern technological highway, but the vision laid down for the newspaper 75 years ago rings strong today.

IAG shares Mindanao Cross’ vision and mission and will continue to be its partner in insuring that our society is open, democratic and tolerant of differences. With Mindanao Cross, we will help facilitate that citizens receive accurate and credible information so that they can make informed and evidence-based decision on their choice of leaders and issues that directly affect them.

Atty. Benedicto Bacani Executive Director, IAG

Bishop visits anti-mining barricade in Sibuyan Island

BISHOP Narciso Abellana of Romblon on Wednesday visited Sibuyan Island residents who have been protesting a large-scale mining project, which the local clergy opposes.

Social media photos showed the bishop shedding tears while talking to demonstrators who have been blocking the entry of heaving trucks to the mining site since January 29.

Residents put up a human barricade at Sitio Bato, a village in the island’s town of San Fernando to protest the alleged illegal mining activities of Altai Philippines Mining Company.

Environmental groups claimed the mining firm failed to secure necessary mining permits and documents.

The clergy warned of ‘tragic consequences’ if the nickel mining project pushes through on the island, often referred to as the “Galapagos of Asia” because of its rich biodiversity and pristine remoteness from all the mainlands.

“Unchecked human activity will have its tragic consequences, running the risk of destroying nature, thus running the risk of destroying humanity,” the clergy

Caritas Philippines, the social action and advocacy arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) welcomes the resumption of the International Criminal Court’s investigation of the bloody drug war and extrajudicial killings that took place during the Duterte administration.

“The resumption of the probe will allow due process to run its course and ensure justice and truth will prevail,” said Caritas Philippines executive director Fr. Antonio Labiao, Jr. “This is a step in the right direction to promote transparency, fairness, and trust in public institutions.”

On January 26, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) said it had approved ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan's request to continue its probe into "the Situation of the Republic of the Philippines".

"Following a careful analysis of the materials provided by the Philippines, the Chamber is not satisfied that the

said in a statement.

“Land is life. Water is life. We only have one world to live in. Let us protect the environment! Let us protect nature! No to mining!” they said.

The Romblon Diocesan Council of the Laity also issued a statement on Sunday deploring the continuous attempts of the mining company to mine the island.

The lay organization also criticized the government for “turning a deaf ear and permitted the corporation to reach our soil” despite strong public opposition.

“Together with all the people of good will in the Diocese who cry out against mining, we cry with one voice, stop mining in Sibuyan,” they said.

“As an expression of solidarity, we appeal to all the faithful to storm the heavens with our prayers, and provide every possible support to the people of Sibuyan who struggle for justice,” they added. CBCP News

Caritas Philippines welcomes resumption of ICC probe

Philippines is undertaking relevant investigations that would warrant a deferral of the Court’s investigations on the basis of the complementarity principle," the international court said.

Fr. Labiao added, “the Senate and the House of Representatives should exert pressure and issue a resolution addressed to President Marcos allowing the ICC to resume its investigation. If the government has nothing to hide then it has nothing to fear.”

A Technical Working Group on Human Rights is being spearheaded by the CBCP, Caritas Philippines, and the Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines (CMSP), with the Swiss Catholic Lenten Fund, Bicol Consortium for Development Initiatives (BCDI) Inc., and Task Force Detainees of the Philippines also part of the initiative. The group is working on a human rights campaign and is looking to the UN Joint Programme on Human

Salt and light make a difference. Salt adds flavor to food. We who experience darkness whenever there are brownouts know how a little light makes a difference. For these reasons Jesus chose the similes of salt and light in this Sunday’s gospel, “You are the salt of the earth…you are the light of the world.” This is a clear challenge of discipleship. One who chooses to follow the way of Jesus has to make a positive difference in the surroundings where she moves, either by way of salt or by way of light.

Rights for support on its work on education/capacity building, documentation of cases, resource mapping, and assistance to victims of human rights violations.

“We urge President Marcos to allow the ICC to conduct its investigation freely and show that the

government is sincere in its vow to promote accountability and protect human rights,” said BCDI president Fr. Jovic Lobrigo. CMSP co-executive secretary Fr. Christian “Toots” Buenafe meanwhile said there is a need “to humanize the discussions

on human rights in the Philippines which is currently focused on redtagging, militarization, and culture of impunity/ violence. There should be meaningful discourse and engagement instead of vilifying perceived critics.

“We are calling on

all sectors, especially the academic and business sectors, to join the campaign and advocate for a culture of respect for human dignity and protection of human rights for everyone, regardless of their circumstances,” he added. Caritas Philippines

Reflections

order to proclaim the message of the kingdom. They are seen in pulpits, in media, and they become public figures, even celebrities. One such shining light was St. Pope John Paul II. He was an international leader. He travelled, preached, taught, and became involved in world events, even in the political scene.

Salt is important and has influenced the growth of civilizations. Salt is manufactured, traded, and even took the place of money. Roman soldiers were paid in salt, hence the word salary. Salt is used for seasoning, for food preservation, and for cleaning. Today, in our country due to a weak salt industry, there is a shortage of salt, going the way of sugar and onions. In that famous movie “Gandhi”, the British rulers outlawed the locals from making salt. Gandhi led the famous salt march to the sea where he made salt from the seawater, in defiance of British law. Jesus therefore chose a very simple object in everyday life to show the disciples that they are as important as salt. When salt is used as seasoning, it may not be seen but there is a difference in terms of flavor. Some disciples proclaim the kingdom in silent ways, especially by their witnessing.

Light on the other hand is more noticeable during darkness. Light cannot be hidden. Just a little bit of light is visible. And so it is that sentries or guards are not supposed to smoke when they are on duty at night so as not to be easily seen by the enemy. Like a shining light, some disciples may have to keep a high profile in

There are therefore two ways of making a difference as a disciple of Christ. It really depends on one’s talents, personality, and gifts. There is the way of the salt, simple, lowly, and unseen but they make a difference. There is the way of the light, publicly noticeable, and recognizable. The important thing, is that the messenger knows that he is not the center. The center is Jesus and His message about the Kingdom.

All of us, at some point in our life have been influenced by some person for the better. It could be our parents, our teachers, our bosses, and anyone who took the time to teach and mentor us. Many times, in retirement ceremonies, I have listened to former students giving accolade to their teacher in the elementary grades. I remember particularly one teacher in religion who corrected my answer in her class. I was in first year high school and I answered her question about confession. I said, “We are not sure if we are forgiven.” She told me, “Remain after class” and taught me the value of confession. She was one of the sign posts in my vocation to the priesthood. She took the time to explain the sacrament of confession to me. After ordination, forty-seven years ago, I took the effort to track her down in Luzon to tell her I have become a priest. She died as a nun in her eighties knowing she made a difference in my life. Did you make a difference in someone’s life? Who made a difference in your own life?

Readings: no. 329, p. 161 or no. 528, p. 639

1st Reading: Genesis 1.1-19

Gospel: Mark 6.53-56

Readings: no. 330, p. 164

1st Reading: Genesis 1.20 – 2.4a

Gospel: Mark 7.1-13

Readings: no. 331, p. 167

1st Reading: Genesis 2.4b-9, 15-17

Gospel: Mark 7.14-23

Readings: no. 332, p. 169

1st Reading: Genesis 2.18-25

Gospel: Mark 7.24-30

Readings: no. 333, p. 171 or no. 530, p. 639

1st Reading: Genesis 3.1-8

Gospel: Mark 7.31-37

Readings: no. 334, p. 173

1st Reading: Genesis 3.9-24

Gospel: Mark 8.1-10

Bishop Narciso Abellana of Romblon talks to protesters who set up barricade against a large-scale nickel mining project in Sibuyan Island on Feb. 1, 2023.

Photo courtesy of Rev. Bonn Jovie Divino

EDITORIAL

What’s Next, Mindanao Cross?

With the fast growth of technology in the world today, many media of communication have slowly melted into oblivion and are replaced by new ones that are more responsive to the lifestyle of the new generation (as represented by millennials). It is not just the typewriter that is viewed as archaic by many, but the telephone is also going its way. The typewriter was first replaced by the word processor, which had to give way to the computer when all the bulky tubes were done away with.

In its 75 years of existence, the Mindanao Cross has tread all these progress in communication. It has served as a logbook of events that took place in this part of Mindanao. Because of this, the Ateneo de Manila University Library has taken the complete issue of the MC and converted these into digital copies for easy access of researchers. It is therefore available in Manila at the Ateneo, and in the Notre Dame University library here in Cotabato City.

Realizing the importance of this weekly newspaper, vis a vis the rise of the modern communication technology it becomes imperative to keep up with trends. It is general knowledge that the Oblates of Mary Immaculate as a congregation has been using communication in its missionary endeavour. Reaching the far away missions becomes easier with the use of communication technology. Realizing its importance, the Oblates established radio stations and a newspaper to reach these far flung rural areas, and keep its missionaries updated with the more urban areas.

The history of the Oblates forey into Mass Media is detailed in the book entitled “ Evangelizing the Poor in the Philippines (50 Years of OMI Presence with the People in the Philippines). The Oblates are known for pioneering in this powerful instrument of evangelization. It formally involved itself in Mass Media as early as 1947 when it set up the Notre Dame Press. A year later, it published the Mindanao Cross with Fr. Cuthbert Billman as its first editor. Since then, it set up the local Catholic radio station DXMS in Cotabato City in 1957, DXND in Kidapawan in 1974, DXOL in 1988, DXMM in Jolo in1986, DXMI IN Bongao in 1988 and recently 2018– DXOM in Koronadal. Added to this is the I-Watch, a social media outlet based in Cotabato City.

The Oblate pioneering spirit in the mass media continues as more Oblates use these as powerful instruments of evangelization. As the world gets older, the trends in mass media also changes. This is composed of many forms of electronic communication. Those associated with the Internet, now accessible through both computers and mobile phones, include e-mail, instant messaging services, chat rooms, forums, social networking sites, interactive online gaming networks, etc. It is not only logical but imperative for the Oblates to keep up with the trends, particularly in the Social Media which is saturating the mass media market at present. Although the printed copies of MC has decreased due to the high cost of printing, the Mindanao Cross is available in the internet at mindanao.cross at gmail.com.

Although the Oblates have been discussing the importance of integrating the various mass media outlets into one Oblate Communication Center, the creation of new development structures in this region makes this move more imperative as soon as possible. MC

“The Philippine economy ended 2022 with the fastest growth in over four decades underpinned by a robust final quarter, but analysts and policymakers warn that a global slowdown and soaring inflation will make for a difficult year ahead.”

So opens an online report by Reuters datelined January 26 Manila.

In its official website, the Philippine Statistics Authority said the country’s Gross Domestic Product posted a growth of 7.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2022, resulting to a 7.6 percent full-year growth for that year. The figure is higher than the government’s target GDP growth range of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent.

Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the outstanding fourth-quarter growth performance can be attributed to increased demand following the lifting of pandemic restrictions and full reopening of the economy in the last three months of 2022. He expressed confidence that the country’s high growth trajectory will remain.

But where is the windfall?

Thus asks House Deputy Minority Leader and Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera. Herrera, in a January 29 statement, said “Economic growth must be inclusive and it must be felt all across the country for all Filipinos.” Herrera said it is unfortunate that despite reports on improving economy, the reality is that “millions of Filipinos remain poor and have to struggle daily to earn a living.”

According to Herrera many people are saying they do not feel the growth that the country’s economic managers and President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. are so proud. Instead, what they feel are the high electricity rates, slow internet connection, inefficient public transportation system, rising food prices, and stagnating real wages. Herrera said Filipinos who called themselves poor in the fourth quarter of 2022 according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey rose to 51 percent – an estimated 12.9 million – higher than the 12.6 million or 49 percent recorded in the previous quarter.

The same survey, as this writer had cited in the previous edition of this column, also showed that around 11.8% of Filipino families, three million families, had nothing to eat at least once in the past three months. This was slightly higher than both the 11.3% hunger rate in October 2022 and 11.6% in June 2022. This latest survey showed that hunger rate was highest in Mindanao at

IMET this senior police officer who spent much of life’s wasted time in detention, pending 10 years of marathon hearings on the Maguindanao Massacre murder cases. Life behind bars literally devastated him and his family.

While he was in detention his wife died of terminal illness secondary to physical stress, and that they had to sell the family’s home to sustain a legal battle that kept him under state-restraint in a decade-long detention on criminal charges stemming from the massacre.

Having regained his freedom by acquittal in 2019, the officer keeps being too reserved. His conduct of professional affairs remains at very low-key, along the track of a second lease in public life. Even after being restored to service, he kept his distance from the media lest his acquittal gets caught on spotlight by a sense of “activism” that might generate a subjective public opinion.

Remembering post-massacre coverage in Shariff Aguak for the Inquirer, I did share in exchanges with two close-in lawyers there that a statement condemning the incident would have made a difference for the media, and particularly the families of the victims.

Indeed, a distinguished member of the Ampatuan clan, then Maguindanao Congressman Simeon A. Datumanong delivered his privilege speech in the House of Representatives on December 10, 2009, condemning the massacre by acknowledging that some of his relatives were involved. This was the December 10 bicameral deliberation on the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato City by Malacanang on December 3, 2009.

12.7%, followed by Visayas at 12.0%, Metro Manila at 11.7%, and Balance Luzon at 11.3%.

According to IBON, the government only distributed P18.3 billion in targeted cash transfers out of the P37.2 billion budgeted for this. It said that while the program was supposed to give P3,000 in cash assistance to 12.4 million households or the poorest half of Filipino families. Social welfare department data show that it only gave P2,000 to 9.2 million families. And this “stinginess” will probably continue this year given that allocations for regular emergency assistance programs have been cut by P7.5 billion from P97.4 billion in 2022 to less than P90 billion this year. The government has also reduced funding for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, or 4Ps, by P5.1 billion and of the KALAHI-CIDSS community development program by P2.8 billion.

And what good is this hyped growth if it is not felt by ordinary Filipinos?

According to Representative Herrera economic growth is useless if its benefits do not redound to the entire population, adding: “The challenge now for the present administration is to address these valid concerns (high electricity rates, rising food prices, and stagnating real wages) of our people.”

IBON believes a more productive starting point for policy to address this is, first of all, being more candid about the real conditions of poor and low-income Filipinos instead of relentless spin and propaganda. The group also said that Marcos Jr and company should spend less time and government resources on their trips abroad and instead prioritize immediate and substantial aid, wage increases, and small business and production support.

Indeed, when the trickle-down effect comes in droplets instead of trickles, it will definitely be hardly felt at all. It could, in fact, potentially lead to bigger problems and even more explosive situations.

The other side of justice: Meek and innocence

P enlight

Nash B. Maulana nash.penlight@gmail.com

Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 221. The families of the two of them, however, believe that justice remained not served well for as long as they and few others are still behind bars.

Their families believe that at least two of them were in Shariff Aguak; not in the crime scene at the time of the gruesome killings. Also it was maintained that one of the Ampatuan scions was in Manila at the date and time of the incident to attend a meeting in Malacanang which the President then had attested to in writing.

But many have expressed opinion that the “time was up” really for the (inner-core members) of the powerful political family that even a Presidential testimony could be “demolished” by an electoral fraud testimony of a resigned provincial administrator charging a former President, no less, based on his affidavit, and the respondent was herself sent to detention.

John

COTABATO CITY

Williamor

With just about everyone’s mode at story sourcing set on a high-tone of universal emotion, Inquirer editors wanted me to watch over local developments amid state of disorders in the field. This small pie given to local reporting was practically left to the Ampatuans who’d then have little chances gaining shares of time-and-space anywhere in the national and international reporting. That was the essence of the Inquirer brand of journalism—‘Balanced News Fearless Views’. In big stories like that, news organizations involve workers in the field in story planning, or at least their essential part of the coverage is given preference.

Back to the police officer: The story of the lone junior military officer designated to monitor the situation that day, failed to convince the court that the senior police officer was involved in the mass murders, directly or indirectly.

Three other senior police officers currently serve terms for 57 counts of murders in the historic Decision of the

In other words, the Ampatuan men were in sheer quandary then to be spared from charges. One state witness pinned down that family scion with a testimony that that accused allegedly called him up on mobile phone to clean up the mess—to “bury” the corpus delicti (body of the crime), effectively establishing himself as that “missing backhoe operator.”

The fate of a 58th victim has remained unknown, and his daughter cried over his perceived exclusion from the count of murder cases that the respondents were convicted for. On the other hand, there should not be this much of a fuss, as his perceived disappearance was charged to each of the convicted respondents as a separate crime. But calling the incident “Ampatuan Massacre”? It will cast but will hardly delve on implications and sensitivities of a “double-meaning” that will be too much for the young, the innocent members, even the unborn among them to bear in a lifetime of perceived “involvement.” I mean enough; it may not be that perfect, but justice has already been served by the court.

Point Blank

Charlie Señase csenase@yahoo.com

Deadly frailties to human pitfalls abound to no end as the world is so engrossed on self-love to amass wealth through deceit and manipulation. We have been forewarned of last days as perilous times when majority prefers the broad way to destruction than the difficult narrow path to life (Matthew 7:13).

News about people indulging in illegal drugs, gun-for-hire, smuggling, extortion, hoarding and other corrupt and unlawful acts abound despite government tight security vigilance. And proof enough are these PH headlines: Former PSG chief and current Army Brigade commander and 7 of his men charged of murder for killing fashion model-turned entrepreneur in Davao City; Batangas intelligence cop shot dead in Lipa City; A father charged for killing 7-year old son in Sarangani; A Lebak village chair was gunned down in Tacurong City; 43 persons in Batangas City arrested for possession of illegal drugs worth P612,000; Business man shot dead in Batangas; Former village chief killed in Pangasinan. And worst inhumanity abroad is this headline – A US citizen in Utah kills family of seven then kills himself.

Time-and-time again, we keep asking, what’s happening amid leaders and rulers promising for peace and prosperity to reign with Ukraine-Russia war still raging despite peace efforts by allied countries. Notwithstanding other developing countries in the brink of war as so-called “super powers” initiate joint military exercises with them.

A possible nuclear war is in the offing that we have to rebuke and pray-for, knowing that any chemical warfare is hazardous to health more than COVID affecting plants and other living creatures. If this happens, God forbids, even the freshclean air that we breath will soon be for sale which is contrary to God’s free gift of life and all other resources from light, water and air to humanity. But our disobedience and stubbornness to His precepts made

it so because of humanity’s inherent pride, envy and greed as major contributory factors that we have to reap in return. And it pays to know our weaknesses and its origin.

THE BIBLICAL LIES ON DECEPTION TO PONDER

Christ speaking to evil doers: You are of your father the devil and his desires you want to emulate. He was a murderer from the beginning and there’s no truth in him. He speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it (John 8:44). Thousands of years ago, Christ warned His disciples on deceitful-men who will proclaim they are Christ and will deceive many (Matthew 24:4-5). He went on saying that false prophets will also rise up to deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:11-13).

If someone says, I love God and hates his brother, he is a liar. For he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? (1 John 4:20). Prophet David in haste said: “All men are liars” (Psalm 116:11). God abhors the cowardly unbelievers, the abominable murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters and all liars. They shall have their part in the lake burning with fire and brimstone which is the second death (Revelation 21:8).

Beware, lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit according to the tradition of men and the basic worldly principles and not according to Christ (Colossians 2:8). True Christians must endure in faith for Christ Himself suffered for us, leaving an example that we should follow His steps (1 Peter 2:22). And to all those who will be saved on Judgment Day, it is written that their mouths are without deceit for they are faultless before the throne of God (Revelation 14:5).

Take heed that if someone is willing to give-up his life so others may live is leadership beyond compare that Christ our LORD did in obedience and love to redeem mankind. Prudence dictates that righteousness exalts a nation as God exalts the humble that the last will be first. With God, who can be against us? MC

Early Childhood Development

The first years of life are critical for the physical, emotional and intellectual development of a child

Early childhood is the most crucial time in a child’s life. Before age 5 our brains develop faster than during any other time in our life, and we develop physical, mental, and emotional foundations for our entire life ahead. Investments in parents and their young children are highly effective and among the most cost-effective methods used to prevent future high spending on health and poverty alleviation services.

In 2018. UNICEF and World Health Organization adopted a document –“Nurturing Care Framework” which gives clear guidelines for policies and practices supporting children during their earliest years. According to this document, to reach their full potential, children need the 5 interrelated components of nurturing care:

1. good health , 2. adequate nutrition, 3. safety and security, 4. responsive caregiving, 5. opportunities for playful learning in early childhood through interactions with their parents.

Early childhood development programmers are most beneficial for children from the most disadvantaged families and significantly benefit to lowering inequality between peers. Parents are a child’s most important support, guides, windows into the world and teachers. Support programmes that empower parents set the ground for optimal early childhood development and long-term resilience throughout life.

For children in Serbia to develop and have better childhood experiences and life outcomes in adulthood, UNICEF supports:

•Strong infant and young child policies and services that are aligned with the Nurturing Care Framework and that include care for the well-being of children and their caregivers, especially in vulnerable families, such as families living in poverty, Roma families and families with children with disabilities.

•Improvement of maternal care that includes promotion of exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months, so that every child can

survive and thrive.

•More efficient procurement and distribution of essential child vaccines, more effective data management systems on immunization and child health, communication through the health services and media platforms, as well as a betterprepared outbreak response.

•Quality cross-sectoral response and further advancement of services in early development through the work of homevisiting nurses, pre-school institutions and social protection services in order to empower parents and caregivers for quality child-rearing so they can provide children with affection, attention and stimulation through play and exploration through interacting with both parents.

•Introducing quality early childhood intervention, starting with timely detection of developmental risks and including intervention through three key support systems – health protection, preschool education and social welfare – to build on a family-oriented approach in addressing needs of children with developmental delays and disabilities, their parents and caregivers.

•More efficient procurement and distribution of essential child vaccines, more effective data management systems on immunization and child health, communication through the health services and media platforms, as well as a betterprepared outbreak response.

•Quality cross-sectoral response and further advancement of services in early development through the work of homevisiting nurses, pre-school institutions and social protection services in order to empower parents and caregivers for quality child-rearing so they can provide children with affection, attention and stimulation through play and exploration through interacting with both parents.

•Introducing quality early childhood intervention, starting with timely detection of developmental risks and including intervention through three key support systems – health protection, preschool education and social welfare – to build on a family-oriented approach in addressing needs of children with developmental delays and disabilities, their parents and caregivers.

Three of the five contestants for Booth competition held in connection with the Fourth Anniversary of the BARMM were declared winners at the concluding program held at the Bangsamoro Government Center here in Cotabato City. These are; Basilan, Tawi-tawi and Lanao del Sur.

It was one of the most difficult judging experience I ever had. While the other judges were visual artists, I am inclined towards the masterful handiwork of the tribes. We hold in our hands the precious treasures of our cultural heritage.

The Basilan booth featured the products of the Yakan Tribe , Traditionally, they have used plants such as pineapple and abaca converted into fibers as basic material for weaving using herbal extracts from leaves, roots and barks. The Yakans dyed the fibers and produce colourful combinations and intricate designs. Their booth also had a Yakan actually weaving while a gentleman demonstrated how the head cloth Seputangan was wound around the head.

Lording over the booth of Tawi-tawi was

the photograph of the Mayor and his wife, garbed in their traditional wedding special garment made of velvet material with multi studs on the chest, cascading down the length . The Badjao tribe are scattered along the coastal areas of Tawi-tawi, Sulu, Basilan and some coastal areas of Zamboanga. The Badjaos are also known as “Sea Gypsies” whose culture and livelihood are tied to the sea. The Tawi-tawi booth had tarpaulins featuring the many exotic places to visit in their place. One day, we may find ourselves in the heart shaped lake, or having selfies with the houses on stilts as backdrop, riding the banka along Sitangkai, the Venice of Tawi-tawi. Their Tepo, finely textured mats are often framed on the walls rather than being slept on.

Not to be outdone, Lanao del Sur had the presence of a newly enthroned Sultan, The Sultan sa Talaguian, his highness Ali Magal Macadaag. His throne was filed with what we call “baul” , but unlike the familiar baul to most of us, these are laden with mother of pearl insets. Some are long, for keeping the clothes while the small ones are for trinkets. They say these are ideal for gift giving especially for weddings. Famous for the dance of Muslim royalty, the Sinkil, the Lanao Booth’s ceiling was adorned with the colourful canopy, the material of which is made of golden satin and heavily handembroidered like umbrellas.

Solving Business Problems…

“There are no big problems, there are just a lot of little problems.”—Henry Ford

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”—Albert Einstein

“Learn to use your brain power. Critical thinking is the key to creative problem solving in business”—Richard Branson

A business firm does not exist in a vacuum and has to deal with both its internal and external environment. There is a myriad of things that can happen in a business firm/s environment that can affect its operation. The adverse changes or occurrences are deemed as problems or concerns.

The internal environment consists of its owners, officers, employees, as well as, the rules, procedures, and systems that were put in place to allow the enterprise to operate effectively and efficiently.

Depending on its size and scope of operation, the external environment that would matter to an enterprise could just be the locality where it operates or extends up to the national level or even global arena for the larger companies. The local government units where the firm is located or operates, the national government, and other countries and international organizations (e.g. World Trade Organization, World Health Organization, and organs of the United Nations) could make or change policies and procedures that can benefit or negatively impact business enterprises.

What is a problem?

One definition of problem is “a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome.” There

are two important items in the definition. First, a problem is something that we do not want and can be detrimental to the enterprise and the results of its operations. Second, the matter or situation that arose needs to be dealt with as to prevent damage or even threaten the very existence of a business enterprise.

To be really effective in solving a problem, we need to be very analytical and creative.

First, we have to be able to correctly identify the problem, its gravity, and how pervasive it is.

Sales, more particularly a fall in the level of goods or services sold, s often one of the biggest challenges for an enterprise. When there is a dip in sales, we have to understand what is the real cause. Is it just due to seasonal changes in demand, actions of competitors (e.g.. they introduce better products, lowered their selling price, etc.), due to difficulties being encountered by consumers (e.g. occurrence of a calamity), emergence of a new product that could replace existing ones in the market, or negative events in the local economy (loss of jobs).

Second, the firm has to identify the options it has in dealing with the problem.

Following the above example (fall in volume of sales), a firm has various options (depending on what caused the fall in sales). If the main competitor/s had lowered their selling price, the firm may opt to lower its own selling price, do a sales promotion (e.g. buy one, take one), or even do nothing (if the firm is certain that the competitor cannot afford to keep the low price for a long period of time).

Third, the alternatives had to be evaluated on their ceertainty to solve the problem immediately and permanently.

Based on the result of its analysis, the firm decides which option is best and implements it and observe if the solution is effective.

AR ket d R iven Danny Buenbrazo danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com

Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy franco1573victoria@gmail.com

“HFM” disease hits Kidapawan, SoCot...from P1

of chicken fox or prickly heat but the blisters were contained only around the mouth and hands and later in the feet,” Arlene, a mother of one of the child confined in a private hospital here, said.

Franco said aside from disinfection in possible sources of the “coxsackie viruses,” parents are also advised to ask hygiene kits from their respective barangay health stations to help contain the outbreak.

Dr. Cynthia Corneta, Banga OIC municipal health officer, also appealed to parents to teach their children to always wash their hands “every now and then” or provide them with alcohol to avoid getting the virus.

“Should there are symptoms like fever and skin irrigation, bring your child to the nearest health station or hospital,” Dr. Corneta said.

In Kidapawan, Dr. Evangelista said the HFMD is very contagious that transmitted via

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao City Government of Cotabato OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

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 Japheth C. Cabigas has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex/gender from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth of Japheth Canoy Cabigas who was born on April 30, 1992 at Cotabato City and whose parents are Flordeliza B. Canoy and Alvin C. Cabigas. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this office.

(Sgd.) EDRES A. SAMAMA

Asst. City Civil Registrar OIC-City Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

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

respiratory secretions like coughs, sneezing of patients and close contact with the HFMD patients or sharing of kitchen utensils. “This is very contagious especially during the first week of illness,” Dr. Evangelista said a video post in Kidapawan City LGU social media account.

The most common signs of the disease are rashes in the patients hand, foot and

mouth, coughs and fever.

Evangelista said hardest hit are Barnagays Poblacion, Singao, Magsaysay, Macebolig, Amas, Perez, Lanao and Indangan. He said many parents are unaware that their children have already the virus thus the city has ventured into massive information campaign, especially in schools, as one of preventive measures.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN REFORM

Tunay na Pagbabago sa Reformang Agraryo

PREFATORY STATEMENT

The 1987 Constitution under Article XIII, Section 4 provides that the State shall, by law, undertake an agrarian reform program founded on the right of farmers and regular farmworkers, who are landless, to own directly or collectively the lands they till or, in the case of other farmworkers, to receive a just share of the fruits thereof; Presidential Proclamation No. 13 instituted a comprehensive agrarian reform program (CARP) on July 22, 1987, and E.O. No. 229, provided the mechanics for its implementation;

On June 10, 1988, R.A. No. 6657, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law of 1988, was enacted; Section 50 of R.A. No. 6657, as amended, provides that the DAR has primary jurisdiction to determine and adjudicate agrarian reform matters and shall have exclusive original jurisdiction over all matters involving the implementation of agrarian reform;

The primary thrust of Sections 49 and 50 of Republic Act (RA) No. 6657, as amended, is embodied in DAR AO No. 03, Series of 2017 (2017 Rules for Agrarian Law Implementation (ALI) Cases, amending DAR AO No. 03, Series of 2003 to proceed to hear and decide all cases, disputes or controversies in a most expeditious manner, employing all reasonable means to ascertain the facts of every case in accordance with justice and equity and the merits of the case in a manner that is just and inexpensive;

Indispensable in the judicious determination of cases by the Office of the Regional Director is the avoidance of further delays in the issuance and furnishing of Notices, Orders and Resolutions and the receipt of case folders and pleadings to and from the parties;

Finally, pursuant to A.M. No. 11-9-4-SC (Efficient Use of Paper Rule) and the Revised Guidelines on Submission of Electronic Copies of Supreme Court-Bound Papers Pursuant to the Efficient Use of Paper Rule, and that this guideline does not in any way amend or modify DAR AO No. 03, Series of 2017, and in pursuance to ISO Standards, that this Office hereby adapts the same.

GUIDELINES ON SUBMISSION OF ELECTRONIC COPIES FOR THE AGRARIAN LAW

IMPLEMENTATION CASES FILED BEFORE THE REGIONAL OFFICE XII

(1) Coverage.- These Guidelines shall govern the submission of electronic coples of all ALI Cases lodge before the Regional Director of Region XII which shall include but not limited to the following to viz:

a) Petition

A field worker of the municipal disaster risk reduction and management office of Banga, South Cotabato conducts disinfection in public schools in the Poblacion after the outbreak of hand, food and mouth disease.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late NAPOLEON BATO SALAYSAY, who died on November 23, 2009 at Ampatuan, Maguindanao, a parcel of land Lot 18, Block 4, Psd-123804-000755, situated in Barrio Bagua, Cotabato City, covered by TCT No. T-334416, containing an area of 145 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Antonio F. Diocera as per Doc. No. 161; Page No. 33; Book No. C; Series of 2023.

MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late HADJI MUKAMAD ZACARIA, who died intestate on December 27, 1997 at Bagua III, Cotabato City, left a parcel of land Lot No. 522-A-2, (LRC) Psd210426, covered by TCT No. T-12637, situated in Bagua, Cotabato City with an area of 500 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Atty. Abbyr A. Nul as per Doc. No. 398; Page No. 76; Book No. XL; Series of 2023.

MC: Jan. 28, Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato Municipality of Aleosan LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

In com pliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that April Gie C. Campas has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male and the first name of the father from Nesto to Nestor, in the birth certificate of April Gie C. Campas who was born on 23 April 2004 at Sta. Rosa, Aleosan, Cotabato and whose parents are Nestor Q. Campas and Melanie T. Calicaran.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than 6 February 2023.

(Sgd.) MARILOU G. NANLABI Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

Photo courtesy of DepEd-Banga

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ROWAIDA ABO, who died on November 11, 2016, a parcel of land Lot 641-A-5-C-2-A, Psd12-009018, situated in Barrio Kakar, Cotabato City, covered by TCT No. T-23314, containing an area of 200 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous absolute sale before Notary Public Hazruddin E. Usman as per Doc. No. 181; Page No. 36; Book No. I; Series of 2023.

MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late LUTHER ABALDE MANEJA, who died intestate on 20 September 2022, left a PHILAM AIA POLICY INSURANCE Policy No. 0611579178 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate/ partition of specific property (Insurance Claims/proceeds) with special power of attorney before Notary Public Atty. Roniel L. Inot as per Doc. No. 393; Page No. 80; Book No. 13; Series of 2022.

MC: Jan. 28, Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

Republic of the Philippines Magpet, North Cotabato OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Gino Culam Indoy has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Dino to Gino in the certificate of live birth of Dino Culam Indoy who was born on June 08, 1979 at Lanaokuran, Magpet, Cotabato and whose parents are Amado E. Indoy and Saring Lantong Culam. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than February 21, 2023.

(Sgd.) CHONA M. PROVIDA, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 4 & 11, 2023

b) Notice to File Comment/Answer/Interlocutory Orders

c) Answer/Comment d) Position Papers

e) MARPO Investigation Report

f) Motions of any kind

g) Summons

(h) Case Brief/s

(i) Any other legal documents with the same and similar import

(2) Manner of Transmittal.- All the legal documents mentioned in the immediately preceding item shall be submitted within twenty-four (24) hours from the filing of the hard copies (filed personally, by registered mail or any mailing courier companies) by transmitting them through electronic mail.

(3) Date and Time of Filing.- When the paper or hard copy is filed in person, by registered mail or any other mailing courier the same shall be deemed to have been filed on the date and time of filing of the hard copy, not the date and time of the transmission of the electronic copy.

(4) Proof of Filing of Hard Copy.- The electronic copy submitted should be the EXACT COPY of the paper filed before the Office of the Regional Director through personal filing, registered mail or through any other mailing courier. The following shall be considered as proof of filing;

a.) For Papers filed in person, the one filling is strongly encouraged to submit an electronic copy of the papers submitted.

b.) For paper sent via registered mail or through any other mailing courier, the electronic copy shall include the scanned copy of Proof of mailing (document/receipt) issued by the Postal Office or the mailing courier opted evidencing payment of necessary fee/s for the delivery of the legal document.

(5) Electronic File Format.- The electronic copy of the proof of mailing as in item (4) (B) of these guidelines shall be in PDF format. The petitions and other legal documents as mentioned in item (1) of these guidelines shall be submitted through electronic mail under MS WORD format (.docx)

(6) Receiving of Regional Office Bound Documents. Electronic copies submitted by e-mail must be addressed to the legal division of the Regional Office XII with the email address (legaldivdarro12@gmail. com)

(7) E-mail Format. The submission of electronic copies by electronic mail shall use the following format:

To: (email address of the Regional Legal Division)

From: (filer’s e-mail address)

Subject: Docket Number/Nature of the case/Pleading or Document Title

Example:

To: legaldivdarro12@gmail.com

From: juandelacruz@gmail.com

Subject: 1200-0001-2023/Disqualification/Petition

The body of the e-mail shall contain the basic details of the case so as to guide this Office in ascertaining the nature of the email sent.. It shall contain the full title of the case and basic details/information regarding the case.

Example: Good Day!

Respectfully forwarding the case folder with Docket No. 1200-0001-2023 captioned as “Petition for Partition/Survey filed by Juan Dela Cruz, Annie Batumbakal and Juana Dela Cruz situated at Barangay A, Municipality B, Province of C

Thank you!

In cases of direct filing before the Office of the Regional Director the filler shall leave the middle portion of the docket number (i.e. 1200-____-2023)

(8) Verified Declaration. The filer shall also attach to the e-mail a Verified Declaration that the Pleading submitted electronically are complete and true copies of the printed documents. The declaration shall use the following format:

I,________hereby, declare that the documents hereto submitted electronically are complete and true copy/ les of the documents filed by (personal, registered mail, or any mailing courier).

Signature Printed Name Position Date

SUBSCRIBE AND SWORN TO BEFORE ME, this____day of __________, 2022 in __________, Philippines, personally appeared the above-named person exhibiting before me competent evidence of his/her identity. Doc No. ___ Page No.___

Book No.___ Series of 2022

The declaration attached to the e-mail must be the PDF copy of the Verified Declaration attached to the hard copy filed before the Office.

(9) Repealing Clause.- All prior issuances of this Office inconsistent with these guidelines are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

(10) Effectivity. - These Guidelines shall take effect after fifteen (15) days of posting in four (4) conspicuous places (in each Provinces) of the Region and publication in two (2) newspapers of Regional Circulation.

3 sued for P596,960 worth of shabu in Lanao

POLICE investigators have filed criminal cases against three men detained since Sunday after a search team found P596,960 worth of shabu and two handguns in their residence in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur.

Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, BARMM police regional director, said the suspects, Malic Banto Macaundas, 33, Basim Undong Dicretan, 52, and the 80-year-old Bambaran Bantug Taha, are now awaiting prosecution.

Macaundas, Dicretan and Taha were immediately arrested after combined agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and personnel of police units in Lanao del Sur found 87.1 grams of shabu, valued at P596,960, a .38 revolver and a .45 caliber pistol in their residence in Barangay Tatawayan in Tamparan town.

Guyguyon earlier said the search operation, covered by a warrant from a court, was premised on tips from vigilant residents of Barangay

3 BARMM cops feted for bravery

Tatawayan, aware of the shabu peddling activities of the suspects.

Besides the 87.1 grams of shabu and two firearms, CIDG-BAR agents also recovered from the three men two digital weighing scales that provincial police officials said were essential to their sale of shabu on a retail basis.

"The suspects shall soon have their day in court," Guyguyon said. JFU

Bloody Lamitan City clan war settled

ALL is well now. Hatchets buried for good.

Two rival groups in Lamitan City forged a truce last week, ending years of animosity that exacted fatalities on both sides.

Rajan Abdulrahman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Mohammad Muddalan, a senior member of the Moro National Liberation Front, reconciled through the intercession of the Lamitan City local government unit and other peace advocacy groups in Basilan.

Brig. John Guyguyon, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao police director, told reporters that he is thankful to Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay, the Lamitan City Police Station and the Basilan

Provincial Police Office for cooperating in resolving the clan war amicably.

“This is a good development. We ought to help sustain the enforcement of the peace accord reached by both sides to keep the peace in the areas where they had encounters in the past,” Guyguyon said.

The groups of Abdulrahman and Muddallan, chairman of Barangay Parangbasak in Lamitan City, figured in deadly clashes in past years that had repeatedly displaced hundreds of innocent villagers.

Reports reaching the Bangsamoro regional government center here stated that the bloody gunfights between the two groups were sparked by deep-seated political

differences and territorial disputes.

Furigay said credit for the settlement of the Abdulrahman-Mudalan conflict must also go to the Bangsamoro Ministry of Public Order and Safety, to the top leaders of the MILF and the MNLF in Basilan, to the international peacekeeping entity Nonviolent Peaceforce that

supports the Mindanao peace process, and the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion.

Bangsamoro Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo, regional spokesperson, said Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim was thankful to the parties that helped reconcile the groups of Abdulrahman and Muddalan. JFU

THREE policemen wounded in a shootout with drug traffickers in Lanao del Sur each got a merit medal Saturday last week for gallantry and dedication to service.

Major Bobby Egera, police chief of Marantao, Lanao del Sur, and his subordinates, Corporals Mujahid Taurac and Al-Sadat Jahiri, were hurt in a clash with gunmen led by Abbas Dimnang Rampa, wanted for murder, illegal possession of firearms and trafficking of narcotics.

Rampa and his followers are identified with a local terrorist group fashioned from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, according to senior members of the Lanao del Sur provincial peace and order council.

Egera led a team out to serve Rampa different warrants of arrest in his hideout in Barangay Nataron in Marantao but the operation turned haywire when he and his followers opened fire, sparking a gunfight.

Rampa was killed

in the ensuing firefight that waned only after his followers scampered away.

Two of Rampa’s companions - Ansaruna Mulingan Magi and Johari Taban Barani - were cornered and arrested by policemen after a brief chase.

Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, BARMM police regional director, had said that crime scene probers found an M16 assault rifle and a fragmentation grenade beside Rampa’s cadaver. Police Forensic experts also recovered a small bag containing five sachets of suspected shabu at the scene of the encounter.

Guyguyon said he has visited the wounded Egera, Taurac and Jahiri in the Amai Pakpak in Marawi City and awarded them each with the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting.

Guyguyon also handed out initial cash assistance for the medication of the three wounded policemen. JFU

The Mindanao Cross officers, contributors and staff through the ages