Issuu

BARMM, NGO consult public on draft local governance code

CHURCH / P4

Candidate’s character matters, says ex-PPCRV chief

P12

PDEA arrest 13, destroy 3 drug dens in BARMM

The Mindanao Cross issuu.com/mindanaocross mindanao.cross@gmail.com

RAINSTORM DESTROYED P143-M CROPS IN TULUNAN By Williamor A. Magbanua

KIDAPAWAN CITY — A rice producing town in North Cotabato has suffered losses to crops following heavy downpour with strong winds early this week, an agriculture official said. Rice fields in at least 14 villages have been flattened by the whirlwind that hit farming communities, according to Engr. Maria Luz Tabacolde, Tulunan municipal griculturist. She named these villages as Bagumbayan, Bual, Damawato, F. Cajelo, Kanibong, La Esperanza, Maybula, Minapan, New Bunawan, New Culasi, New Panay, Popoyon, Sibsib and Tambac, all are rice producing villages. Tabacolde said at least 864 hectares of these rice fields were totally damaged

while 829 hectares were listed as partially damaged. Most of the rice fields were underwater due to heavy down pour while the rest were flattened by strong wind due to weather disturbances. She estimated the total damages to more than P143 million in 8,600 hectares and affecting 1,298 farmers in 14 barangays. "Farmers planted hybrid seeds because of high yield but lost to calamities,” Tabacolde said, adding that most of the affected rice fields were not

Comelec listing poll “areas of concern”

By Edwin O. Fernandez THE Commission on “Areas of immediate” Elections (Comelec) in the concern are barangays, Bangsamoro Autonomous m u n i c i p a l i t i e s a n d R e g i o n i n M u s l i m provinces where violence Mindanao (BARMM) is are likely to occur due to rushing the determination intense political rivalries, of areas in the region to be huge presence of armed classified as security areas group, private armies and concern. lawless elements. Atty. Renault “You know in BARMM Macarambon, Comelec- during election season the BARMM assistant regional security of voters, poll director, said for sure there officials and the public will be areas in the region is a major issue,” Atty. to be classified as areas of Macarambon said in a immediate concern and radio interview. areas of concern. “But we are

MBHTE crafting IRR for educ code

By Nash B. Maulana and Moby Pandi/MBHTE T O P o f f i c i a l s o f t h e Cross on Thursday that Ministry of Basic, Higher, the Education Code IRR and Technical Education was being finalized more (MBHTE) are crafting than a year after it was the Implementing Rules passed by the Bangsamoro and Regulations of the Transitional Authority Bangsamoro Government’s Parliament in 2020. Education Code at a forum The Bangsamoro in Davao City, it was Education Act was authored learned. by Minister Mohaguer Iqbal M B H T E D e p u t y of the MBHTE Bangsamoro Minister Haron Meling and Autonomous Region in Director-General Abdullah Muslim Mindanao Salik Jr. told The Mindanao (BARMM).

DID YOU KNOW?

February 14 is St. Valentine’s Day

In the third century AD, Roman emperor Claudius II is said to have decided that young men should not be allowed to marry so they can be committed to joining the army. A priest named Valentine saw this decision as unfair and decided to marry young couples in secret and was put to death after the emperor got to know he disobeyed his orders. In 1969, the Roman Catholic Churc h removed St. Valentine from t h e G e n e ra l Ro m a n Calendar, because so little is known about h i m . H o w e v e r, the c hurc h still recognizes him as a saint, listing him i n t h e F eb r u a r y 14 spot of Roman Martyrolgy.

ONLY FOR LOVERS? Stalls a Tantawan Park display flowers and gifts items for sale to those who want tot greet their loved onces on Valentine’s Day. Karl John Daniel

Rep. Caoagdan wants probe on delayed gov’t home project NORTH Cotabato 2nd District Rep. Rudy Caoagdan has filed a bill seeking for a congressional investigation in aid of legislation as to why, despite national government’s intervention, many earthquake-displaced families remained in evacuation camps. On Wednesday, Rep. Caoagdan said he filed Resolution 01-2022 requesting the House Committee on Good Governance to conduct an investigation in aid of legislation on the release of allocation by

By Edwin O. Fernandez the national government through the National Housing Authority (NHA) for the implementation of the establishment of evacuation facilities, housing and relocation sites and construction of houses for the victims of 2019 twin earthquakes that hit North Cotabato. The series of quakes that occurred on October 16, 2019 at magnitude 6.3 and two quakes on October 29, 2019 at magnitudes 6.6 and 6.1, respectively, and on

October 31, 2019 at magnitude 6.5, had affected more than 100,000 people affected. Many of whom are yet to return to their respective places of origin. The second legislative district of North Cotabato that Caoagdan represents covers Kidapawan City and the towns of Arakan, Antipas, Pres. Roxas, Magpet and Makilala. The calamity made majority of Caoagdan’s constituents, including senior citizens, adult and minors alike, homeless

P11

Biz blocs support BARMM investments promotion

OFFICIALS are to support a common program of an entity under Malacañang and another in the Bangsamoro region, meant to generate investments for five southern provinces. The Southern Philippines Development Authority and the Regional Board of InvestmentsBangsamoro Autonomous

By John Felix Unson Region in Muslim Mindanao the MOA is a boost to crossforged a memorandum section efforts of promoting of agreement (MOA) on the Bangsamoro region as a January 26 in Davao City potential investment hub. binding both to cooperate The Bangsamoro region on promotion of businesses c o v e r s M a g u i n d a n a o , in BARMM. Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Lawyer Ronald Hallid Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, Dimasicil Torres, president all still recovering from of the BARMM Business the effects of decades of Council, told Mindanao secessionist strife. Cross last weekend that The MOA was signed

by the administrator of SPDA, Gerry Salapuddin, who hails from Basilan, and the chairman of RBOIBARMM, Ishak Mastura, who belong to a big clan in Maguindanao. Salapuddin, a battlescarred former top leader of the Moro National Liberation Front in Basilan, and Mastura

February 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

BARMM, NGO consult public on draft local governance code

THE legislative body of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has started holding consultations with local officials and other stakeholders on the draft Bangsamoro Local Governance Code (BLGC). The legislative body of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has started holdi ng consultations with local officials and other stakeholders on the draft Bangsamoro Local Governance Code (BLGC). The first of a series of consultations initiated by Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and its partners were simultaneously Cotabato City and Marawi City. MP Atty. Rasol Y. Mitmug, Jr, Atty Ishak V.

Mastura, Sittie Sauda NulGani, Atty. Anwar Malang, Atty. Rico Pelandoc and Atty. Ronald Torres, served as panel of reactors. MP Atty. Laisa Masuhud Alamia joined the discussion via zoom. The Cotabato City consultation and round-table discussion was facilitated by Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG), led by IAG Executive Director Lawyer Benny Bacani, with Australian Aid and Notre Dame University Graduate School.

Up for discussion was BTA Bill No. 58 (An Act Providing for the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code). In attendance, aside from local officials, were representatives from religious sector, Indigenous Peoples, settlers, academe and business sectors. In Marawi City, the BTA held the consultation at the Lanao del Sur provincial capitol where the comments, position papers and legislative inputs will be gathered.

Peace activists mourn death of Army Colonel

THE Philippine flag is at half-mast in an Army brigade camp in Marawi City as respect for a senior official who perished in a scuba diving activity in Initao, Misamis Oriental last week. The fatality, Col. Noli Anquillano, was the deputy brigade commander of the Army’s 103rd Brigade. Senior members of the ceasefire committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and employees of the office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process were saddened by his demise. Anquillano, 54, was declared dead on arrival in a hospital where he was rushed by other divers when they discovered that he was drowned while being taught scuba diving by experts off the seaside Initao

Police supports Basilan interfaith peace efforts them on that regard,” Ugale said. Muslim preachers and Salliman, chairperson of the provincial peace and order council, held on Thursday a dialogue at the provincial capitol and agreed to continue cooperating on programs sustaining the peace now spreading through all four corners of the island province. Salliman’s administration has various programs attuned to the peace and development initiatives of the regional government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Basilan’s Islamic religious leaders are also close to their counterparts in the Catholic and

other Christian religious groups in the province. Muslim and Christian preachers in Basilan initiate periodic dialogues facilitated by the office of their provincial governor. In their dialogue Thursday last week, Salliman expressed gratitude to his constituent-Muslim clerics for helping maintain peace and order in the province via religious interventions. “Interfaith dialogues are so essential to our security missions in areas in BARMM where there are mixed Muslim and Christian residents,” Ugale said. John Felix

Unson

More infra projects rising in BARMM-SGA

MORE government infrastructures are rising in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), an unprecedented move under the new autonomous set up and under the administration of Pres. Duterte. “These are the dividends of peace,” BARMM Senior Minister Abduraof Macacua said during groundbreaking ceremonies of a structure in Midsayap, North Cotabato where several villages are now part of BARMM and called Special Geographic Area (SGA). On Wednesday, BARMM officials, led by Executive Sec. Macacua, Local Government Minister Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, Public Works Minister Eduard Guerra, SGA Administrator Kellie Antao, led the groundbreaking ceremony for a public market and inauguration of a town hall in Midsayap Cluster of SGA. Also in attendance as witnesses were SGA Field Office Chief Zaiton Abas, and Col. Jovencio Gonzales, commander 602nd Infantry Brigade. Worth P15-million, the public market will be constructed at Barangay Kapinpilan, while the newlycompleted 2-storey barangay hall worth P3.5-million was built at Barangay Sambulawan.

Unson

Tboli vows to safeguard IPs from NPA abuse

PROTECTING THE HOPE OF OUR MOTHERLAND. CRMC launched on Feb. 7, 2022 the vaccination for children aged 5-11 years old against COVID-19. Photo courtesy of Lenileen Olivo & CRMC

THE Bangsamoro regional police directed over the weekend its units in Basilan to support the peace efforts of Muslim clerics and their provincial government that both sides reaffirmed this week. Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, director of the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region, said Saturday the consensus reached during a meeting Thursday by Muslim preachers and Gov. Jim Salliman to expand their bilateral peace programs complement PROBAR’s security programs in the island province. “Their efforts are good and we in PRO-BAR will extend support to

town. Companions first noticed him missing underwater at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and found his lifeless body four hours later. Anquillano had served in a Philippine contingent to a United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Middle East. He also had a stint in the government’s ceasefire committee that worked along with MILF counterparts in preventing hostilities in flashpoint areas in Mindanao while peace talks between Malacañang and the MILF were underway. The government-MILF peace overture culminated with the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in 2019. John Felix

Both projects were funded by the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG), through the Bangsamoro Local Economic Support Service (BLESS) for the public market, and Local Government Facilities Development Project (LGFDP) for the barangay hall. Sinarimbo, also BARMM spokesperson, disclosed that public markets rising across strategic locations in the region are among the priority projects of BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim. "Public market would provide venue for locals who want to sell their products while encouraging individuals from other places to trade their commodities as well," Sinarimbo explained, adding that the venue is ideal for convergence of people and culture. Once this market structures are completed, people will converge and vendors will no longer bring their goods to other markets. Market places are engines for economic development. Minister Macacua said the new market resembled the traditional one where exchanges of goods and other business activities transpire. But it is now unique. “All goods and services available in the Bangsamoro market places are halal and approved

KORONADAL CITY — The local government unit of T’boli in South Cotabato vowed to safeguard its indigenous peoples (IP) community from the manipulation of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels. In a statement Wednesday, T’boli Mayor Dibu Tuan said they can carry out such undertaking through the mechanism of the government’s National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). “The ideology of Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples’ Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) is a poison that destroys the culture and tradition of the IPs,” he said. The mayor’s pronouncement came after the surrender on February 4 of two NPA rebels to the Army’s 11th Special Forces Company, 5th Special Forces Battalion in the

area. The surrenderers were identified by the military only as alias Dagul, a political guide, and alias Tata, both of the Platoon Central, NPA Guerilla Front Musa, Far South Mindanao Region. Both are IPs and residents of nearby Lake Sebu town, Tuan said. The surrenderers brought along with them an M79 grenade launcher with five rounds of 40mm ammunition. With the help of Dagul, government troops were also able to unearth an arms cache containing an M16 rifle and another M79 grenade launcher in Barangay Laconon, T’boli. Brigadier General Pedro Balisi Jr, commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade believes that the surrender of Dagul and companion is a big loss to the GF MUSA. “With this

P11

ASF station seizes hogs from NoCot “red zone”

KIDAPAWAN CITY — Municipal agricultural personnel in Makilala, North Cotabato have prevented entry, or passing by, of hogs possibly contaminated with African Swine Fever (ASF), a veterinarian said. Dr. Rufino Suropia, provincial veterinarian, said personnel from municipal agriculture office seized hogs while being transported to Makilala or passing by toward another area from Mlang, a high risk area for

ASF. An ASF outbreak was declared in Mlang in January that led to the culling of hogs as preventive measure. Suropia said 57 live hogs aboard cargo truck were intercepted at the quarantine station in the MakilalaMlang border. The driver could not present documents allowing transport of hogs. It call came from the village of Tawan-Tawan, one of the villages with high confirmed cases

BARMM BLIO formed, aims broader info reach THE Bangsamoro Information Office sets the collective goal for a broader reach of public communication, by leading the formation of the Bangsamoro League of Information Officers (BLIO) Members of the BLIO) are public information officers of the region’s ministries of line agencies, as well as offices, commissions and government boards. Executive Director Andrew Ameen Alonto of the Bangsamoro Information Office said BIO has the

mandate, among others, is “to establish a network of information officers for better coordination and so that we can improve our reach and be more responsive to the needs and concerns of our people.” Administratively under to the Office of the Chief Minister, the BIO serves as the communications arm and center of information of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The office is also mandated to promote transparency, moral

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 12, 2022

UP, Sen. Gordon pay tribute to Bai Fatima P. Sinsuat

The University of the Philippines (UP) and the country mourns the loss of former UP Regent and Chair of the Board of the Philippine Red Cross Cotabato Chapter, Bai Fatima Palileo Sinsuat, who passed away on the morning of February 4, 2022, according to a text from her niece. A humanitarian and a Filipino princess who was truly royal in both her heritage and actions, Bai Fatima Palilio Sinsuat time and time again helped Filipinos through various projects and organizations that she had both created and led. She was the daughter of the late Datu Blah Sinsuat. Even at a young age, she was an actual princess because she had the power to help Filipinos with her unique status and devoted her life to doing so. She helped organize labor with her father, and, in 1986, all dockworkers in Cotabato City port became members of an organization she created and led, the Progressive Labor Union (PLU). A true civic leader, she took part in various organizations with the ultimate goal of serving the public. She served as mayor of Upi, Maguindanao from 1980 to 1986 and was eventually appointed Head of the ARMM Board of Investments. Later, she was appointed as a member of the UP Board of Regents, the University’s highest governing body, by Philippine President Joseph Estrada, and remained a Regent for three terms. She was also the first Muslim woman in the last 30 years to be elected to the national board of the Philippine National Red Cross and, most recently, as the Chairman of the Board of Red Cross in the Cotabato

MBHTE crafting IRR for educ code...from P1

Chapter. The year 2003 marked her most significant achievement as a social worker. Sinsuat was awarded the National Outstanding Volunteer Award (NOVA) in Malacañang Palace for her blood donation advocacy in the Philippine Red Cross in Cotabato City and initiation of the Organization of International Humanitarian Law Core Group of PRC for the protection of the civilian population in times of armed conflict. Sinsuat never stopped offering kindness and compassion to every Filipino through various projects that aided them. A true royal, this princess has always looked out for the safety and well-being of her people. An actual modern-day princess who went beyond the expectations for past royals with her humanitarian work while serving as a beacon of encouragement for Filipinos to someday surpass her ideals in making the world a better place for all countrymen. From Philippine Red Cross "A great great loss. A great woman leader of the Red Cross. She was very protective of PRC. An institution and respected by all leaders in BARMM and Mindanao and throughout PRC. I am very close to her and I loved her as a sister. I will never forget her." - PRC Chairman Sen. Dick Gordon A petite lady with a massive capacity for public service and a gigantic heart for helping others has quietly passed away after more than half a century of devotion and steadfastness to public service. The Cotabato-based authority on

Iqbal said the law was written on the collective aspiration that “No Bangsamoro child shall be left behind”. As this developed, some 200 teachers attended on Tuesday, February 8, an MBHTE orientation-seminar on serving as Board of Elections Inspectors, pursuant to Section 164 Article XIV of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881, the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines. Under an implementing Resolution promulgated ever election by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the teachers in attending such orientation had been prior chosen and their names submitted by highest education officials from the precincts and clustered precincts of the municipalities, cities and provinces where they will be serving as BEIs The coming May 9, 2022 local and national elections will be the first polling event under the three-year old BARMM. “Being our first, we want it to be the best. We want to set the bar in order to deliver honest, orderly, and peaceful elections,” said MBHTE Minister Iqbal in his speech during the activity held in the city. “I cannot do it alone, and neither the Comelec can do it. The only chance that we can achieve this hope is through the cooperation of our teachers who will serve as members of the Electoral Board or MBHTE Supervising Officer, the other term for that is the DESO,” Iqbal added. Of the 200 participants, 45 were nominees (of the highest education officials) from Cotabato City, 135 from Maguindanao I and II, and 20 from BARMM’s Special Geographic Area. A similar orientation will be conducted in the coming days for those in Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and TawiTawi. Iqbal mentioned that most elections held in this autonomous region have been critical. “Mostly, if not all, the provinces in the defunct ARMM then were considered hot spot and there were no substantial changes at present,” he said, citing that teachers were often the subject of threat, intimidation, violent attack, and the likes, which is why some decline to serve during election. “Inshaa Allah, with the coming of the BARMM, a people-centered leadership will be a game changer. It has been the mantra of the BARMM Government to conform to the principle of Moral Governance,” Iqbal said. “Part of Moral Governance is providing our people the opportunity to choose their leaders freely. Free from all forms of violence, force, intimidation and undue influence. I hope we will help each other in achieving this goal,” he added. On November 8, 2021, the MBHTE and

the Comelec entered into a memorandum of agreement to protect the rights of BARMM teachers and other personnel who will serve in the 2022 elections. TOP officials of the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) are crafting the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Bangsamoro Government’s Education Code at a forum in Davao City, it was learned. MBHTE Deputy Minister Haron Meling and Director-General Abdullah Salik Jr. told The Mindanao Cross on Thursday that the Education Code IRR was being finalized more than a year after it was passed by the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority Parliament in 2020. The Bangsamoro Education Act was authored by Minister Mohaguer Iqbal of the MBHTE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Iqbal said the law was written on the collective aspiration that “No Bangsamoro child shall be left behind”. As this developed, some 200 teachers attended on Tuesday, February 8, an MBHTE orientation-seminar on serving as Board of Elections Inspectors, pursuant to Section 164 Article XIV of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881, the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines. Under an implementing Resolution promulgated ever election by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the teachers in attending such orientation had been prior chosen and their names submitted by highest education officials from the precincts and clustered precincts of the municipalities, cities and provinces where they will be serving as BEIs The coming May 9, 2022 local and national elections will be the first polling event under the three-year old BARMM. “Being our first, we want it to be the best. We want to set the bar in order to deliver honest, orderly, and peaceful elections,” said MBHTE Minister Iqbal in his speech during the activity held in the city. “I cannot do it alone, and neither the Comelec can do it. The only chance that we can achieve this hope is through the cooperation of our teachers who will serve as members of the Electoral Board or MBHTE Supervising Officer, the other term for that is the DESO,” Iqbal added. Of the 200 participants, 45 were nominees (of the highest education officials) from Cotabato City, 135 from Maguindanao I and II, and 20 from BARMM’s Special Geographic Area. A similar orientation will be conducted in the coming days for those in Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and TawiTawi.

Comelec listing poll “areas of concern”...from P1 Rainstorm destroyed P143-M crops in...from P1

still in the process of finalizing our lists of areas for classification, every now and then we conduct assessment with our security sectors,” he added in the vernacular. BARMM is comprise of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Cotabato, Marawi and Lamitan. The presence of Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group, the Abu Sayyaf Group in western part of BARMM, the private armed groups, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and other lawless groups are among the issues being discussed by military and police authorities in the region. Macarambon said

regular meetings and assessment of security matters will eat up most of the time of Comelec personnel as part of the poll body’s efforts to ensure the May 9 elections will be peaceful, orderly and acceptable to all. “This is our main objective, orderly, peaceful and safe national and local elections,” he added. He said the Comelec provincial and municipal offices will launch “Oplan Baklas,” a campaign to remove unauthorized campaign materials of candidates, both local and national. Macarambon has appealed to all candidates and their supporters to remove their unauthorized propaganda materials

displayed outside common poster areas. “Campaign posters must not be nailed on trees, but only in Comelec identified common poster areas,” Macarambon added. Brig. Gen. Arthur Cabalona, newly installed police regional director for BARMM, also assured the public that the police, as Comelec deputies, will ensure that the May 9 elections in the region will be peaceful and orderly. During his assumption as BARMM police director, Brig. Gen. Cabalona urged his subordinates to contribute in the national government’s desire to come up with a honest, orderly, peaceful, credible, safe and problem-free national and local elections.

Biz blocs support BARMM investments...from P1

are supporters of the peace process between the national government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front headed by BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim. “The BARMM Business Council appreciates this good effort of the SPDA and the RBOI. We shall be their partners in implementing that MOA,” Torres said. Minister Romeo Sema of the Ministry of Labor and Employment said improvements in the business atmosphere in BARMM’s five provinces shall, as an immediate effect, generate employment. “Employment is one of several solutions to domestic peace and order problems. Me and my subordinate officials in the Bangsamoro labor ministry are to support that SPDA-RBOI agreement,” said Sema, also MNLF vice chairman for political

affairs. Bai Sandra Siang, president of the Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Cotabato Incorporated, said they shall help the SPDA and RBOI forge ahead with objectives of the MOA. Siang said the SPDA’s economic intervention for BARMM can also help correct wrong notions about the security situation in the Bangsamoro autonomous region. “Our crafting of the MOA marked the beginning of cooperation between the SPDA and the RBOI,” Salapuddin said. He said the MOA that he and Mastura crafted complements the peace and development agenda of BARMM’s charter, the Republic Act 11054, also known as the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

insured with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). The Tulunan LGU has already sought assistance from the provincial agriculturist office. The municipal disaster council has recommended

to the town council to declare state of calamity so interventions can be given to affected families. Hog raisers were also downed by ASF. Heavily affected are the village of Bagumbayan where more than 50 hogs have

been culled as preventive measure. Swine raisers could only shed tears as town agriculture workers, backed by police, hauled their hogs for depopulation. “I pity them,” village chair Vanessa Saylama said.

Catholic schools reject bets engaged in...from P4 of truth, social justice, and democracy. “We support leaders who wield power as social responsibility and not self entitlement, and who can connect to the spiritual in their lives, through their conscience, discernment, and faith in God,” it added.

“Our society is now languishing in the darkness of lies, injustice, authoritarianism, and dysfunctional leadership and governance. The May elections is the opportunity that will break this darkness,” CEAP said. CBCP

News

Vatican acknowledges challenges in...from P4 countries,” it said. The statement outlined five “recurring challenges” facing the current diocesan phase of the synod: 1) Formation “in listening and discernment” is needed to ensure that the synod remains a spiritual process. 2) There is a temptation to be “self-referential” in group meetings rather than being open to others. 3) Getting young people to participate is a challenge. 4) Reaching out to and involving “those who live on the margins of ecclesial institutions” can be difficult. 5) Some clergy are reluctant to participate. “There is growing awareness that the synodal conversion to which all the baptized are called is a lengthy process that will prolong itself well

beyond 2023,” the Vatican statement said. “The desire all over the world is this synodal journey which has begun at the local level continue this journey well beyond Synod 2021-2023 so that tangible signs of synodality might increasingly be manifest as constitutive of the Church.” The statement also announced that the Vatican would send a note to dioceses and bishops’ conferences with further details on how to format reports on the local consultation, which will be sent to the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops. “The note proposes the idea that the drafting of the report is itself an act of discernment, i.e. the fruit of a spiritual process and teamwork,” it said. The synodal process

is a global, two-year event featuring “listening and dialogue” that Pope Francis formally launched in October 2021. The first stage is a diocesan phase expected to last until Aug. 15. The Vatican has asked all dioceses to participate, hold consultations, and collect feedback on specific questions laid out in synod documents. At the end of the current process, an assembly of the Synod of Bishops is scheduled to take place in Rome in October 2023 to produce a final document to advise the pope. The Synod of Bishops’ statement invited Catholics to read its weekly newsletter, as well as visit its website for prayers for the synod and synod resources page.

Courtney Mares/Catholic News Agency

February 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Candidate’s character matters, says ex-PPCRV chief

A former head of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) on Wednesday urged the people to examine the character of a candidate before voting him or her to office.

PPCRV chairperson emeritus Henrietta de Villa said government posts should be given to good candidates, and people should vote for politicians by judging their character. “Have the perseverance to know the character of the candidate. During the campaign, they make sweet promises but their character will still come out in the end,” she said in a televised public briefing.

De Villa also underscored the importance of studying the platforms of candidates in voting for the May 9 local and national elections. She encouraged the electorate to learn more about the platforms of candidates and assess records in public service. “Take time to listen to the candidates in their interviews, during debates, and at their rallies about

Catholic schools reject bets engaged in martial law historical revisionism

A network of Catholic schools in the country on Monday chided political candidates who use disinformation on social media in an attempt to win the May elections. The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines did not identify any politician by name but it criticized the “brazen” efforts to portray the martial law years as the country’s glory days. “We vehemently reject the candidates who run under this platform of lies and historical distortion,” CEAP said. “We value truth, and thus we deplore the massive disinformation that is deceiving our people, especially our youth, in a way that is unparalleled in our history,” it said. CEAP made the pronouncement in a statement titled, “A call to moral courage in the 2022 elections”. It was signed by the association’s board of trustees led by its president, Sr. Marissa Viri, RVM. Similarly, the Catholic educators will

CEAP office in Quezon City.

“B

also reject bets that back the “unjust” actions of President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. These, it said, include the government’s ruthless war on drugs “and the blatant lack of remorse and accountability from the country’s leadership”. CEAP also rejected candidates who supported the Duterte government’s seeming inaction towards China’s incursions within the Philippine territory. On the other hand, the Catholic schools said they will support candidates that have no record of corruption, proven competence in participatory governance, and transparency and accountability in public service. CEAP said they value integrity and they also support candidates who have love for the poor and their empowerment, ability to sacrifice for the sake of the common good, and readiness to fight for values

Photo courtesy of CBCP News

their plans when they get elected,” De Villa said. The forwwmer Philippine envoy to the Holy See said such discernment must be the basis in choosing candidates, and not who gives the highest amount to buy their votes. “To those who love the country and themselves, do not sell your vote,” she added. The 90-day campaign period kicked

“In God’s kingdom, the earth’s resources will be distributed so that there will be no more hunger.”

News

Vatican acknowledges challenges in global synodal process VATICAN— The Vatican acknowledged on Monday that the Church’s effort to listen to the 1.34 billion Catholics worldwide through a synodal process is facing challenges. “Many of the faithful perceive the synodal process as a crucial moment in the Church’s life, as a learning process, as well as an opportunity for conversion and renewal of ecclesial life,” said a Feb. 7 statement following a meeting of the ordinary council of the Synod of Bishops on Jan. 26. “At the same time, various difficulties have

also emerged. In fact, fears and reticence are reported among some groups of the faithful and among the clergy. There is also a certain mistrust among the laity who doubt that their contribution will really be taken into consideration.” The statement cited the pandemic as a further obstacle to gathering in person for communal discernment, underlining again that the local synodal process leading up to the 2023 Synod on Synodality “cannot be reduced to a mere questionnaire.” But the organizers reported that, despite the

challenges, participation among Catholic bishops’ conferences worldwide has been high and efforts have been made to translate the synod documents into many local languages. According to the council, “close to 98% of the Episcopal Conferences and Synods of Eastern Churches worldwide have appointed a person or an entire team to implement the synodal process.” “The synodal process has been particularly welcomed with joy and enthusiasm in several African, Latin American, and Asian

Pope Francis takes part in a moment of reflection for the opening of the synodal path at the Vatican’s New Synod Hall, Oct. 9, 2021. Photo courtesy of Vatican Media

lessed are you, ” of Jesus, the Son of Man, can be rendered for they will be rewarded as “Fortunate in God’s kingdom for are you.” It can describe their perseverance amidst a present state such as adversities. when a doctor tells a Such beatitudes will eflections patient, “You are now well, make sense if there are fortunate are you.” Or it agents and bearers of God’s Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC may describe a state of blessings. God’s kingdom tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com affairs that is still to come is a promise in the future as in, “You are fortunate, you will recover with this and in the afterlife, yet also becomes present in the medicine.” Or in the case of the victims of a calamity, present moment whenever the hungry are fed, the “Maswerte tayo, dumating na ang ayuda.” Blessed sick are healed, the sorrowing are comforted, and the can also mean “maswerte” or “pinagpala”. poor are cared for just as Jesus did in His own time. According to our first reading, “Blessed are those The disciples of Jesus today are challenged to become who trust in the Lord… they are like the proclaimers and the bearers of a tree planted beside the waters” the blessings of the kingdom. The (Jer. 17:7-8). Just like a tree planted kingdom of God or God’s reign has near a stream, this person receives been inaugurated by Jesus through constant nourishment from God. His incarnation. The complete Prophet Jeremiah says that a person realization of God’s kingdom is in cut off from God withers and dies. the time of His second coming, the We recall Jesus’ own words, “I am Parousia. The in-between time is the vine you are the branches,” apart the time for His followers and for His from the vine, the branch dries up. church to continue Jesus’ mission of In this Sunday’s gospel, Jesus giving life. announces that something good We, the followers of Jesus should is coming, because of which the see our role of proclamation of the listeners are fortunate.” Blessed are kingdom as a privilege rather than a you who are poor for the kingdom of burden. We are privileged to become God is yours” (Lk. 6:17 ff). The poor are to be given partners of the Lord in this mission. There is the more attention and care. They are a priority in story of a church in Europe where the image of the this new state of affairs called the kingdom of God. crucified Lord is without hands. Because of the “Blessed are you who are now hungry, you will be bombings during World War II, the image fell and satisfied.” In God’s kingdom, the earth’s resources lost its hands. During the reconstruction after the will be distributed so that there will be no more war the parishioners debated whether they should hunger. “Blessed are you who are now weeping, put in a new statue or just reconstruct the hands. for you will laugh.” People cry for many reasons Finally, they decided to put back the statue without such as deprivation, broken relationships, dreams hands, with a plaques that says, “You are the hands shattered and abuse. In God’s kingdom there is a of Jesus.” And so it remains until today. We are the reason for hope and for better life. Blessed even bearers of the good news. We are the agents of the are those who are persecuted and insulted because kingdom’s blessings. We are God’s hands. MC

Bearer of Blessings R

off Tuesday for candidates seeking national elective posts. On Election Day, De Villa urged the voters to prepare their list of candidates to vote for in order to cast their votes faster. She, however, stressed that the list must be written on a paper and not saved on a cell phone, which is not allowed in polling precincts. CBCP

Meditation Fr. Rock Saniel, OMI rocksaniel@gmail.com

6thSunday in Ordinary Time Readings:

Isaiah: 6.1-2a, 3-8; 1 Corinthians 15.1-11 (longer) or 15.3-8, 11 (shorter); Luke 5.1-11 To be poor in spirit, to mourn, to be meek, to hunger and thirst for righteousness, to be merciful, to be clean of heart, to be a peacemaker, to accept persecution for the sake of righteousness, and to be insulted and persecuted and to have every kind of evil uttered about you falsely because of Jesus. Do you desire these beatitudes? These are no easy wishes and desires. It takes courage and faith to do and believe these things And yet the Lord constantly reminds us, that in our struggles to be good, in our pains and sacrifices to find goodness, there will always be rewards waiting for us – something that the world’s happiness cannot give, a thirst that only God can satisfy. Prayer: Lord, help me to be humble and meek, pure of heart and merciful, a peacemaker and one who accepts any persecution that comes my way. Help me to receive all with joy and with a longing for Your Kingdom. Amen.

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 12, 2022 EDITORIAL

How prepared are our LGUs?

ay back in history, if we review the platforms presented by political candidates at the local level, we see them echoing what the national level candidates carry around as they are interviewed – more investments, more employment, better social services in health, education, housing, security. Should these also characterize the promises that the local level candidates present to the electorate? In the first place, the national candidates do not promise to establish their projects in particular areas. This is probably why voters always vote for the candidate that has interest in their areas. National candidates come up with general promises for health, housing, education, etc. leaving the agencies In charge to set up priorities. Third, there is not enough money to implement the promise in all the regions. Therefore, it is the local governments to fight among themselves who deserves the promise of the winning national candidate. This is the scenario that the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991 (RA 7160) wants every LGU to achieve…to work out the attractiveness of their locality to merit the national project. With the aid of various plans, the national government will be sure that LGUs will have more capability to effectively manage their own local development. Section 20 of the LGC mandates LGUs to prepare a comprehensive land use plan (CLUP) enacted through a zoning ordinance, while Sections 106 and 109 of the same Code mandate the LGUs to prepare comprehensive multi-sectoral development plans (CDP) and public investment programs. With all these prepared and on hand, it will not be hard for the winning president to pinpoint the area where his or her election promise will be implemented. Of course, there is a problem if the winning governor or mayor do not have like the plans prepared by his predecessor. It will take time to synchronize the local plans with the national priorities. In this regard, it will be an added beneficial option for the local candidates to put into their election promises, plans that will complement their national candidates. If for example, candidate Pacquiao talks about housing for the poor, the local candidates should already have an area in their land use plan to accommodate this project. If the candidate talks about improving port infrastructure, LGUs like Lebak and Malabang should have pinpointed these in their plans. The problem is that, like the national candidates who have generalize concept of their election platforms, the same holds true with the local candidates. This coming March, we would like to see what the governors and mayors have in their list of election promises. It is but a matter of synchronizing the national objectives with the local ones. With almost all LGUs have already prepared with their Comprehensive Land Use Plan and their Comprehensive Multi Sectoral Development Plans and Investment Programs, this is not a tall order, but a move that will modernize our antiquated electoral process. MC +

is published every Saturday by the Mindanao Cross Publishers, Inc., Sinsuat cor Quezon Avenues, Cotabato City. Tel Nos. (064) 4217161 and E-mail Address: mindanao.cross@gmail.com | mincross101@ yahoo.com.ph

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 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

Member: PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

Entered as Second Class Mail at Cotabato City Post Office under Permit No. 91-01 Dated August 15, 1991.

whopping thirteen trillion pesos. That is how much the Philippines may owe creditors this year according to Sultan Kudarat Representative Horacio Suansing, sponsor of the budget of the Department of Finance, during budget deliberations at the House of Representatives in September 2020. Current debt data shows this to be on point. As of the end of 2021, according to the Bureau of Treasury, the Philippine government racked up a total outstanding debt of P11.73 trillion, up by 20% from P9.8 trillion in 2020. The treasury agency said domestic debt rose by more than 22% to P8.17 trillion, while foreign borrowings increased by 15% to P3.56 trillion. The total 2021 debt accounted for 60.5% of gross domestic product, higher than the government’s target of 59.1%, which has raised concerns about the government’s ability to pay. How to address this is only one of the challenges facing the incoming administration and whoever is at its helm. There are more. “The next administration will not only have to pick up the pieces in the aftermath of the Duterte administration’s COVID-19 response. It will also have to fix many things going wrong with the economy even before the pandemic hit.” This is how independent socioeconomic research organization IBON describes the task ahead for those running for the country’s top national posts. According to the organization in its Birdtalk 2022 Yearstarter economic and political briefing paper the economy the Duterte government leaves behind as it exits mid-2022 has degraded further from policy missteps since 2016 and especially upon COVID-19. This erroneous approach of continuing policies that prematurely opened up the economy and were ideologically opposed to protecting and supporting domestic farms, fisheries and industrial firms, IBON said, resulted in arguably the weakest economy in the country’s history in terms of productive capacity, which is so essential for national economic development. The agriculture and fisheries sector which makes up the base and bulk of Philippine economy has indeed been crying for ages about the government’s audacity to rely on importation as a solution to price and supply

EFORE I was won over by intercollegiate journalism and off-campus adventurism, I was in my third year in college of engineering when the late Jolly Lais nominated me to edit the weekly Bangsa (Bangsamoro Student Alliance) newsmagazine sometime in 1987. Bangsa was an intercollegiate Moro student paper that evolved from a smaller magazine (Agong), to a literal level of a serious newsmagazine. The guy that I replaced was Gerard Glenn Annudin, editor in-chief of Agong magazine. Gerard who dropped out of the UP College of Mass Communication was both prolific and hilarious. He would even make fun of his own surname, as one “taken from a carabao deworming tablet” by his forefathers. Gerard resettled to Cotabato in the late 1990’s on invitation of Kaka Guiamel Alim, and died years later as a professional working on an NGO magazine published by the CBCS. In those years of student activism, I would often miss (due to insufficiency of funds) the academically required plant (lab) exposure trips for students of electrical engineering. But soon, I would find convenience working in an editorial room at a small rented house, adjacent to the MLQU College of Law Building along Arlegui Street in Quiapo. Outside my working desk room was a big table frequented by students, mostly campus journalists. In school of journalism, who needed a lab exposure when one was working on the real thing from desk-to-bed? In the layout and presswork time, I and Jon-Jon Lidasan (who’d later succeed me as Bangsa’s EIC) would work overtime in the tutelage of Tony Nieva who taught at UP College of Mass Communication. The early post-Edsa years would divert my student life from one’s tunneled track to engineering to a lit path to print journalism. I shifted to school of journalism—and completed the degree program, years after I stopped counting the sweets and sweats of college days. *** But it’s nice to look back to engineering every once in a while. My brother, a civil engineer, asked me the other day if I happened to see on YouTube a power generator with a huge flywheel heavy enough to produce a big torque to keep a dynamo-load rotating. As it appears, one does transfer-switch a plug to a second outlet that draws currentand-voltage supply from a different (generator) source for a “free energy.” I don’t know how my brother (a Presidential

Tough job ahead

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

woes which has been their bane, on top of a lack of adequate support. RA 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law which aims “to provide affordable prices for consumers, coupled with the goal of raising the income of palay/rice farmers” has only benefitted importers and traders who realized a P57.5 billion windfall during the first year of the Rice Tariffication Law, while farmers lost P40 billion worth of income. The increased importation of pork at lower tariffs to address increasing prices amid low supply as an effect of the African Swine Fever may favor consumers but hog raisers believe it will lead to a further decline in hog numbers already decimated by ASF as this could discourage growers from rebuilding their herds. Many wonder why the importation of the round scad or galunggong, a staple on many Filipino tables especially among poor families, continue when we are an archipelagic country surrounded by supposedly bountiful seas. While the importation is justified by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries as a need to combat dwindling local supplies there are those who believe it is done because “there is money in it” for those involved in pushing and implementing the policy. Only recently, sugar planters scored the move of the Sugar Regulatory Administration to import sugar at the height of the sugar harvest season in the country. These policies and more have caused the decline of the agriculture sector, IBON said. Agricultural sector growth averaged just 1.2% annually in 2017-2021, less than onethird the historical average of 3.8% since the end of the Second World War. Add to all that the problem of unemployment and top it with the need to effectively address the continuing pandemic. Those who are presenting themselves to be the country’s next leaders undoubtedly have a tough job ahead of them. MC

From the tunneled track to a lit path

Penlight

Nash B. Maulana

nash.penlight@gmail.com

awardee inventor) could believe that that innovation had been “registered by a (Pakistani) electrical engineer with the U.S. Patent Office. Rationally, I said, I reserve my own doubt that the technology (as shown on YouTube) had (allegedly) passed the strict safety standards of the U.S. Patent Office. Watching the video, I have the outright impression that the device lacks the safety mechanism: The transfer-switching (if that is for real) from one circuit source to another is the shortest cut to disaster. Because in the process, the first source (utility power) has to be very close to, if not equaled or surpassed by a second source (generator) in terms of the voltage-current (V / I) ratio called resistance in Ohm. The utility power supply has a bigger current in a bigger loop. Whereas, the generator power supply has a smaller current of the same voltage in a small circuit or mesh. The second case, therefore, has a smaller ratio or amount of resistance. At the very least, this situation makes the load-appliances vulnerable to damage. The two power sources are like David and Goliath in terms of size, and electromagnetic range with two separate power-sources that certainly mismatch. . Basically, the voltage at any given loop is directly proportional to the current. A sudden decline in the range and domain of the electromagnetic field due to sudden change in two mismatched sources of power (from a giant loop to a very small mesh or circuit) will occur. Mechanically, the friction in the belts-and-pulleys connect is high in that case. Applying that technology, you will have a high mechanical maintenance cost on motor and shafting bearings. But there was a time when even professional electricians got hooked by the video fantasy, that rusting heavy flywheels sold like hotcakes in many junkshops in Davao City. MC

February 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS Aguinaldo who died at 94 inside the Veterans Memorial Hospital due to lingering illness, we were saddened by the passing away of comedian actor Romeo Pastrana, 63, better known as “Dagul,” the popular TV program host of “Going Bulilit.” Here’s another who perished not in war or military combat but in leisure. Considered by peers as a gentleman and an officer, Army Col. Nolie Anquillano, 103 Brigade Deputy commander based in Marawi City died in a scuba diving accident in Initao, Misamis Oriental. The Bangsamoro government mourns his untimely death being part of the successful implementation of the GRP-MILF Coordinating Committee on Cessation of Hostilities. With steady prices of fuel and other basic necessities skyrocketing. What’s next if not pain and sorrow to the marginalized segment of society? That Presidential and other political contenders in the May polls are optimistic to quell and cushion all the difficulties and challenges along the path of survival. Faith with love shared is enough hope to cling to in these trying times as we await The LORD’s Day. And His prophetic return will be a day of darkness and gloominess. A day of clouds and thick darkness, like the morning clouds spread over the mountains. And people come, great and strong that the like of whom has never been, nor will there ever be any such after them; even for many successive generations (Joel 2:1-2). Time to live and walk in the Spirit so as not to fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the fruit of the Spirit that dwells in us is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. And finally, to really succeed before God and fellowmen, let us not be conceited, provoking one another through envy and greed. Let us bear one another’s burdens in order to fulfill the law of Christ, our LORD and Savior (Galatians 5:16-26;6:1-2). And finally, when the corruptible put-on incorruption and our mortal has put on immortality, then it will come to pass, as foretold: “Death is swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:54). MC

People are dying True to Form Charlie Señase

csenase@yahoo.com

O die or not to die? Is the question that a jester quipped: Never say die for tomorrow is another dye. We are all anxious to be what we want to aspire in life. But death is inescapable and a hindrance to worldly aspirations of fame and fortune. Thus, the world is ready to come up with all kinds of scientific remedies to prolong life amid health and other threats to human survival. It has been foretold though that the days of our lives are seventy years. And if by reason of strength we reach 80 or beyond with our only boast confined to labor and sorrow, for it will soon be cutoff, and we fly away (Psalm 90:9-10). Short-lived or prolonged, earthly life has to end. And that’s reality amid pandemic, armed conflict, socioeconomic difficulties and disaster of sorts. For God has appointed man to die once then the Day of Judgment. Recently we mourned the passing away of Cotabato City pioneers Dr. Ramon Rabago, Jr, a known medical and media practitioner and Bai Fatima Sinsuat, a Red Cross volunteer and ICRC board of governor that the University of the Philippines regarded as its former regent. Sinsuat was acclaimed during the time of her PNRC predecessor Ranulfo Nartatez. And on Wednesday Sigrid de Guzman, wife of the late political kingpin Simeon Datumanong, also bid adieu with her remains laid to rest beside him in Sharif Aguak, Maguindanao. Datumanong had held key regional and national posts from different administrations. Apart from being pioneering steward of Muslim Mindanao region, he served as public works and highways secretary then justice secretary before he finally retired from government service to finally rest in peace at 85. As we commemorate early this week the 58th Death Anniversary of the country’s first President Emilio

Despite her many civic duties, she has always looked out for the safety and well-being of others. She would pop-up anytime at her nephew Pepe Quitco’s he tuff of ife shop, bringing basketful of fruits from their farm, Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy sometime exotic orchids franco1573victoria@gmail.com too. She was never afraid princess for her people, a former of confronting conflict, but genuine Filipino princess, Bai has a soft heart for all her constituents. Fatima Palileo Sinsuat. She was She will be badly missed ,as she quietly former mayor of Upi, Maguindanao departed in the morning of Feb. 4, 2022. from 1980 to 1986 and was eventually Rest now Bai Patty, your mission on appointed Head of the ARMM Board of earth is completed to great satisfaction. Investments. Later she was appointed Another highly respected honourable as member of the Board of Regents lady passes away. The lovable Sigrid G. of the University of Datumanong, wife of the Philippines, the the late Congressman University’s highest Simeon Datumanong governing body by the of the First District Philippine President of Cotabato. She is Joseph Estrada, and fondly remembered remained a Regent by the members for 3 terms. She was of the defunct also the first Muslim Sampaguita Court woman in the last 30 no. 2 of the Order years elected to the of the Amaranth national board of the Kutangbato Lodge Philippine Red Cross. 110 for her kindness She was the and achievements in daughter of the late the Court. Datu Blah Sinsuat She kept to her and Esther Palileo. role as wife of the Even at a young age, she had the Congressman, mother of their children, power to help Filipinos with her unique never interfering in politics, a constant status and devoted her life to doing quiet supporter of the Congressman, so. She helped organize labor with her very approachable too. father, and, in 1986, all dockworkers in Cotabato City port became members of x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x an organization she created and led… the Progressive Labor Union. Even as the World Health It is a known fact that , if we Organization bannered a total of 400 associate Rosal Rosal as the icon of the Million Covid Infections worldwide, Red Cross, Bai is just as much if not Omicron variants leading the pact, more .She was awarded the National The University of Santo Tomas issued Outstanding Volunteer Award (NOVA) results of their studies that the Omicron in Malakanang Palace for her blood protects against all variants. We should donation advocacy in the Philipppine expect significant population protection Red Cross in Cotabato Cty and initiated after the Omicron passes; but we the Organization of International should realize that the Omicron is the Humanitarian Law Core Group of PRC beginning of the end of the pandemic. for the protection of civilian population The far side. “When a politician says in times of armed conflict. (from Cot. he will end poverty, he is referring to his Chapter Newsletter) own.” Paolo Coelho. MC

Problems You’re Actually Not Too Young For (Part 1) Health Corner

f you’re a woman in your 20s, you probably think you don’t have to worry about health problems such as strokes and colon cancer yet. But according to new research, they could affect you sooner than you think. Recent studies indicate that some disorders associated with older age are affecting younger adults, while others are greatly influenced by what you do in your 20s and 30s. “With the epidemic of obesity and sedentary lifestyles, we’re seeing a rise in risk factors like high cholesterol, smoking and high blood pressure in younger adults,” says Erin Michos, M.D., M.H.S., associate director of preventive cardiology for the Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease at The Johns Hopkins University. “But it’s important to know that these risk factors are largely preventable. If women make lifestyle changes now, they can greatly lower their risk for developing these health problems.” Protect yourself from conditions increasingly affecting younger women. Here’s what you need to know.

High blood pressure High blood pressure (when your blood pumps too forcefully through your veins) is often called a silent killer. That’s because most people who have it don’t have symptoms, even though the disorder is damaging the heart, kidneys, blood vessels and brain. Seven percent of women between ages 20 and 34 have high blood pressure. While the rate may seem low, the big issue is that young adults are far less likely to be diagnosed and treated for the condition. If left untreated, high

Promoting Local Investments…

Market Driven

“Despite her many civic duties, she has always looked out for the safety and wellbeing of others”

Type 2 diabetes You could have diabetes and not even know it. That’s the case for an estimated 3.1 million women in the United States, who likely don’t know they have the disease because they haven’t noticed any symptoms. Obesity is a leading risk factor for diabetes. Younger generations — even children — have much higher rates of obesity than ever before. Because of that, it is on the rise, says Michos. “Type 2 diabetes and the obesity epidemic are driven by the ways many people live these days. We consume more calories, sweet beverages and fast food, and spend far too much time sitting.” Hispanic, African-American and Native American women have to be especially careful when it comes to factors that contribute to type 2 diabetes. That’s because they are up to four times more likely to develop the condition. Developing type 2 diabetes also puts women more at risk for heart disease. You can also experience a form of the disease called gestational diabetes during pregnancy. If you do, you’re 20 to 50 percent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes at a later point. This means it’s crucial to be screened for the disease more often after delivery. MC

“You could have diabetes and not even know it. “

Farewell Princess

a reprint from Johns Hopkins

blood pressure can result in heart disease later in life and is the leading cause of strokes. In fact, just keeping your blood pressure in check reduces your risk of stroke by 48 percent. Pregnancy may give you a preview of your risk for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. If you have preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), you have a much greater chance of having high blood pressure and heart problems later on. Michos explains, “Pregnancy is like a stress test for your body. If you develop complications, it’s a sign that there may be health issues that will re-emerge afterward.”

Danny Buenbrazo

danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com

he infusion of new business investments is the catalyst for the growth of economic activities in a country and its localities. Pioneering and larger investments diversifies an economy and foster the birth of more business firms and create higher rates of employment. Investments at the national level, especially those coming from foreign sources, are well-recorded. National government organizations (e.g. the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and Department of Trade and Industry and its attached agencies: PEZA and the Board of Investments, in the case of the Philippines) religiously record investments being made by local and foreign business firms. Investments from abroad are typically of two types: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Portfolio Investment. Portfolio investments are those that come in the form of purchase of stocks traded in the Philippine Stock Exchange or purchase of other financial assets such as government securities and bonds issued by private companies. Of these two, FDI is preferred since these are investments on tangible business operations (amount of investment is used on purchase or lease of real property, acquisition of machineries and equipment, payment of wages, and other similar expenditures). Portfolio investments can be quickly liquidated and repatriated back to its country of origin while FDIs are more permanent in nature. Currently, FDIs in the Philippines are concentrated in Metro Manila, CALBARZON, Metro Cebu, and few other places in the country. The requirements of foreign investors for infrastructure, logistics, utilities, manpower, government services, and other services are quite stringent that most local government units are presently unable to provide these needs. With the current health emergency and the devolution of more powers (and

responsibilities) brought by the implementation of the Mandanas-Garcia rulling, local government units (LGUs) need to generate more investments to compensate for businesses and employment lost due to the pandemic and create revenues for the city or

municipality. How should a local government units go about promoting investments in their respective jurisdictions? Let us go through the imperatives for a local government unit seeking to significantly increase business investments in its territory. First, the LGU must conduct an assessment of what could be the types of businesses that would thrive within its boundaries. This would depend on the factor endowment (e.g. availability of materials for processing, supply of educated/skilled workers, and access to seaport and airport) and current role of the city or municipality (e.g. educational center, agricultural production area, center of trade and commerce, and/or tourism area). After having determined the present economic role/s and the potential business activities or the locality, the LGU should identify what more needs to be done to persuade potential investors to place their money in priority projects. These would include policy and legal matters such as land use and zoning as well as incentives. Labor policies that protect the employees but consider the welfare of employers should be in place to ensure harmony. Specific areas (with good access) where investors may locate their projects should also be identified, better if an economic zone would be established. Utilities, such as power and water, communication, and transport services should be upgraded to such level as may be needed. Officials and employees of the LGU must have the commitment and the level of knowledge and skills to render high quality of service to the business sector. Finally, the LGU must write and implement its investment promotion plan through missions, forums, and other means. MC

More infra projects...from P2

by Islam,” Minister Macacua said in the vernacular. B a r a n g a y Sambulawan Chairman Kadir Abdul was emotional in welcoming the new structure in his village. “I t only happened now, it only happened under BARMM and only happened under Pres. Duterte,” he said in local dialect. He also lauded AFFIDAVIT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the l a t e T E O D O R O T. BISCARRA, who died intestate on April 10, 2015 at Pob. Libungan, North Cotabato, parcels of land Lot 2760-D-22-C, Psd-12-93806; Lot 2760-D-22-B, Psd-1213806; Lot 2760-D-22-A, Psd-179947; Lot 14, Block 7, Psd-165446; Lot 13, Block 7, Psd-165446, all situated at Poblacion, Libungan, North Cotabato with the total area of 1,584 sq. mts., more or less and Lot 2921D, Psd-179221, situated at Sinawingan (formerly Batiocan), Libungan, North Cotabato with an area of 13,079 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT Nos. T-77542, T- 7 7 5 4 1 , T- 7 7 5 4 0 , T-74827, T-55503 and T-69787, respectively are the subject of affidavit of self-adjudication before Notary Public Marylyn B. Flauta-Lim, CPA, LLM as per Doc. No. 498; Page No. 100; Book No. LXIV, Series of 2017.

MC: Jan. 29, Feb. 5 & 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 12, 2022

ASF station seizes hogs from NoCot “red zone”...from P2

BARMM. “We are grateful to BARMM for this project because it would make the government closer to our people.” Minister Sinarimbo also credited Chief Minister Ebrahim for this projects. “Let me thank the chief minister for his continuing support to our ministry in the implementation of projects aimed at supporting LGUs so they can better deliver basic services to our people,” he said. Edwin Fernandez

of ASF. Suropia’s office culled the seized hogs despite the absence of lab test “since they come from red zone area.” The hogs were later buried in Singkatulan village. If the hogs are positive for ASF, the owners will be penalized.

In Kabacan town, the local government released some P1.2 million worth of aid to farmers whose hogs were affected by ASF. Dubbed as "Assistance to Swine Farmers," 57 hog raisers received a cash grants on Monday. Mark Osoteo said the amount of aid

depends on how many culled hogs each owner has in nine villages of Bangilan, Dagupan, Katidtuan, Lower Paatan, Malamote, Malanduague, Osias, Upper Paatan, and Kuyapon. At least 678 hogs were depopulated by LGU amounting to about P5.3 million. Williamor A. Magbanua

Sambulawan Sansaw, Yahyah Kasim Macapendeg, Noraida Sabdullah Bansil and Jasim Sabdullah Bansil. Agents seized some PHP102,000 worth of shabu, various paraphernalia and drug money. In the same village, agents also

dismantled a drug den and arrested Joy Kasim Sansawi, 48, Mansor Badrudin Celad, 30; Sandatu Tuan Ampatuan, 39. A certain Jojo Bansil eluded arrest. Confiscated were 24 pieces of suspected methamphetamine

hydrochloride worth PHP60,000, mobile phone and shabu paraphernalia. Daculla said cases for violation of RA 9165 are being prepared for filing against the suspects who are now under the custody of PDEA detention facility.

governance, and to enrich the quality of public discourse. On Friday, January 28, members and newlyelected officers of BLIO took their oath before Bangsamoro Spokesperson

Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, who was virtually present. BLIO officers said they will finalize the constitution and bylaws of the league. Earlier, members went through a four-day strategic planning workshop, from Jan. 24-27 in General Santos City in partnership with The Asia Foundation and the Australian Aid. “One of our tasks as information officers is to make BARMM a good government; not just accessible to the people, but that they hear about it, they understand it, and to

PDEA arrest 13, destroy 3 drug dens in BARMM...from P12

BARMM BLIO formed, aims broader info reach...from P2

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late MAXIMIANO R. GARCIA who died on October 13, 2013 in Midsayap, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 2186-B-10, Psd-043202, situated in Bo. Lower Katingawan, Midsayap, Cotabato, containing an area of 300 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of sale before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 124; Page No. 23; Book No. CCLXXIV; Series of 2022. MC: Feb. 12, 19 & 26, 2022

ascertain that they feel it,” Sinarimbo said. “I have great confidence in the abilities of all of you. I’m also confident that your work in the Bangsamoro Government will truly result in empowering our people, not just our government,” he said. Moby Pandi of the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) was elected president of the BLIO. Other officers are: Vice President Manal Sugadol of the Ministry of Public Order and Safety;

PDEA

External Vice President is Nureesa Phemeena Lynn B. Mambatawan of the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT); Secretary Salembai Abdulla of the Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD); Treasurer is Hamim L. Lim of the Office of the Chief Minister - Finance Division; Auditor Sahara K. Ali of the Bangsamoro Women Commission. Elected Board of Directors are Saidah Ali (Ministry of Health), Jidday Lucman (Ministry of Social

UP, Sen. Gordon pay tribute to Bai Fatima...from P3 volunteerism and regional leadership, Bai Fatima Sinsuat, died on Feb. 4, 2022 at the age of 82. Forty seven years of loyal service to the Red Cross and her devotion to duty was widely recognized as was her leadership in social welfare that extended to thousands who benefited from more than 5 decades of community service. Serving on the Board of Governors for the Red Cross won her recognition and awards as her commitment and support to the Blood Programs was exceptional and appreciated. Her innumerable awards and certificates of recognition (65 and counting with 12 from the Red Cross) span four decades and came from top government officials, private and

MP Saliga joins TLADC 3D map launching On February 4, 2022, the Timuay Justice and Governance (TJG) spearheaded the launching of Tëduray-Lambangian Ancestral Domain Claim (TLADC) 3D Map, a project funded by the Legal Rights Center (LRC) and delineated by the Philippine Association for Intercultural Development (PAFID) in Tuladan Center, Kifëngfëng, Upi, Maguindanao. The ceremony was graced through a ritual. MP Saliga expressed his support on the undertaking and added that it would be of huge contribution to the assertion of the aspirations of Tëduray and Lambangian tribes. He also shared resolutions and bills he has filed for the recognition, promotion, protection and respect of matters concerning the Ancestral Domain or the Fusaka Ingëd. The 57th Infantry "Masikap" Battalion, 6ID of the Philippine Army led by Maj Jerry C Santig committed to support activities that would help uplift the rights and well-being of the above-named tribes.

Services and Development), Musrifa M. Mago (Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform), Sami Ysmael U. Ebrahim (Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority), Al-Musawwir Mohammad (OCM-Communication Team), Agnes D. Manampan (Ministry of Transportation and Communications), Harjen Gullon (Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs), and Raimarie S, Losaria (Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage). Nash B. Maulana

civic organizations, the Armed Forces, MISG, educational institutions, and both Muslim and Christian leaders. "When you volunteer, be serious about it. Sana for those who are here, you will have a heart even how hard it is. Life is to be pleasant." These were her words in one of the Safer Access Training in Cotabato City. Bai Fatima’s sincere efforts and volunteer work in areas of armed conflict were phenomenal and bound her life story to channeling the credo of the Red Cross – to alleviate suffering, to assist and uplift while preserving individual personal dignity. She will be sadly missed... Franco Gargantiel II and

Philippine Red Cross

Rescued and rehabilitated sea turtle..from P12

Pawikan (marine turtle), you can report it to your barangay captain, local

ENRO, or the closest DENR Office, and we will respond," PENRO Lumayag added.

| with report and photos from PAMO-SBPS. DENR

BTA Member of Parliament (MP) Jose Lorena led the public consultations with local officials in Lanao del Sur. "The Bangsamoro Local Governance Code will give a clear direction between local government units and the Bangsamoro government," MP Lorena said. The code aims to strengthen the supervision power of the Bangsamoro government through the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG).

He added that this would prevent MILG and DILG from having double supervision. Instead of the word “government” the draft Bangsamoro code used the term “governance” to emphasize citizen participation, Lorena said. "Further, governance means inclusivity rather than exclusivity, association rather than isolation, and accommodation rather than marginalization," he added. Similar consultations

will also be held in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi as well as in 63 villages in North Cotabato that are now part of BARMM. BTA Speaker Pangalian Balindong said the BTA has accomplished most of its tasks, including the passage of three priority codes mandated by the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). During the transition period, the BTA is mandated under the BOL to enact priority legislative measures. The priority legislation are administrative code, revenue code, electoral code, local government code, education code, civil service code, and Indigenous Peoples' code.

Soccsksargen

BARMM, NGO consult public on draft...from P2

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 February 1-27, 2021 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 February 23, 2022.

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 Pebrero 1-27, 2021 sa alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:00 ng hapon sa Agencia de Oro - Jose Lim Branch, corner Jose Lim Sr, and Don Roman Vilo St., Cotabato City sa Pebrero 23, 2022.

MC:Jan 12 & 19, 2022

Edwin O. Fernandez

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late KASID SAGAN SANGGUYOD who died intestate on September 21, 2021 in Cotabato City, left a parcel of land Lot 4, Block 7 of subdivision plan LRCO 122761, situated in Bo. Kakar, Cotabato City, containing an area of 526 square meters, more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of real property with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Sandy Balucan Sendad as per Doc. No. 412; Page No. 41; Book No. II; Series of 2022.

MC: Feb. 12, 19 & 26, 2022

February 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Province of Maguindanao MUNICIPALITY OF UPI email add: sb_upi@yahoo.com Office of the Sangguniang Bayan

EXCERPT FROM THE MINUTES OF THE FORTY FOURTH (44TH) REGULAR SESSION OF THE 17TH SANGGUNIANG BAYAN OF UPI, MAGUINDANAO HELD AT THE SB SESSION HALL ON DECEMBER 15, 2021 AT 9:30 A.M. Present:

Hon. Wilfredo T. Ibañez Hon. Geraldine G. Bacas Hon. Alex A. Peñaloza, Sr. Hon. Saidie O. Lidasan Hon. Janito M. Rabelo, Sr. Hon. Maria Elena II T. Castro Hon. Rodolyn P. Andres

Presiding Officer PO Pro Temporé SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member SB Member

EXPLANATORY NOTE WHEREAS, the paramount concern of the present society is to effect social, economic and political reforms through discipline and order;

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the Local Government to effectively implement the Ecological Solid Waste Management Program; WHEREAS, there is a need to practice waste segregation to facilitate reuse and recycling, and reduce the cost of collection and disposal of garbage; WHEREFORE, on motion of Hon. Maria Elena II T. Castro, Chairman of the Committee on Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, duly seconded by the majority, it was; RESOLVED as it is hereby RESOLVED to enact and promulgate the following ordinance. ORDINANCE NO. 2007-003 “A COMPREHENSIVE ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF UPI “. (Updated December 2021) ARTICLE 1 Title Section 1. Title. This shall be known as the Comprehensive Ecological Solid Waste Management Ordinance of the Municipality of Upi.

SM Member SB Member (LnB President) SB Member (IP Mandatory Rep.) SB Member (SK Fed. President)

Hon. Datu Michael C. Sinsuat I

SB Member

streets, public places, and open spaces; d.

WHEREAS, to attain these reforms, we need to have a healthy citizenry and provide special protection for them s well as to visitors; WHEREAS, to make these objectives realistic, it should be the duty of every citizen and resident of this municipality to keep the environment or surrounding clean and wholesome;

Absent:

Hon. Neil Christopher Platon Hon. Ariel M. Layson Hon. Jay V. Olubalang Hon. Arbe A. Olvido

Section 7. Technical Terms. The technical terms used in this ordinance are defined as follows: Compost refers to decayed organic materials for use as soil conditioner of fertilizer.

Composting refers to biological degradation under controlled condition; the process of making degradable such as food waste, garden waste, human waste into compost by mixing them with soil, domestic COVID waste materials, water, biological additives/ activators (optional) and air.

Clinics refer to facility for diagnosis and treatment of usually walk-in or outpatients, includes among others veterinary, dentist and other related services.

Non-Recyclable any waste materials that have no other use anymore and considered as residual waste which shall be collected and dump at the prescribed disposal facility.

Department/Grocery Stores refers to store selling wide variety of goods and products.

Domestic COVID-19 Health Care Wastes refers to infectious, hazardous, and/or contaminated healthcare wastes including, but not limited to, used face masks, cottons, tissue papers, and other similar items, generated at the households.

Special Waste any waste materials that are toxic and hazardous such as busted lamps/bulbs, batteries, chemical containers, used syringes, pathological wastes, COVID waste materials, etc.

Domestic Waste refers to the refuse from households as distinguished from industrial waste, agricultural waste, hospital waste, etc., which may be classified as biodegradable(compostable) or non-biodegradable (noncompostable).

a. b. c.

Factories/Plants refer to establishments for manufacturing and production such as canneries and other related establishments.

Factory Refumables/Recyclables refer to all nonbiodegradable, non-compostable such as tin cans/metals; bottles/glass including broken pieces; plastic Styrofoam, rubber, dry paper, dry cardboard, dry cloth, fibers, leather, hard shells, hard bones, etc. which are segregated in separate containers or place in one sack (cans, bottles, containers already rinsed) and are sold/given away to collectors.

e. f. g. h.

ARTICLE 3 Authority and Purpose/Goals Section 3. Authority. This ordinance is enacted to supplement the provisions of existing laws and ordinances related to solid waste management (SWM). Section 4. Purpose. This ordinance is enacted for the following purpose: General: a)

To guide, control and regulate the generation at source, storage, collection, transportation and disposal of solid wastes within the locality and promote an orderly and sanitary system for the same. To enhance the rehabilitation of the locality through the necessary control and mitigation of negative environmental impacts attributed by solid wastes.

Specific: a)

To minimize generation of solid waste and maximize possible resource recovery/recycling and utilization by: • Maximizing the use and consumption of goods; • Encouraging the recovery of possible recyclables from solid waste in every backyard through composting and biogas production process; • Encouraging the recycling and resource recovery of solid wastes in every backyard through composting and biogas production; • Providing assistance and cooperation in the recycling of solid wastes.

Section 5. The primary goal of this ordinance is to help enhance ecological balance in the community through sustainable ecological solid waste management. Section 6. Objectives. The objectives of this ordinance are the following: a.

To ensure round the clock cleanliness through orderly waste management;

To cease and desist from utilization of open garbage dumps which serve as breeding places of disease-causing organisms, foul odors, harmful fumes, “greenhouse gases” contributing to global warming and thinning of the ozone layer. The same also generate “ leachate” which pollutes soil and water resources and create unhealthy scavenging activities in the vicinity;

To eradicate , uncovered and overflowing waste receptacles in

Recyclables refer to i. metals such as tincans, aluminum cans, iron, copper, etc.; ii. glass/bottles including broken pieces; iii. plastics such as polyethylene (bags), propylene (straws, jute sacks), polyurethane (foam mattresses), polystyrene(Styrofoam), polyvinyl (tubes, pipes, linoleum); iv. polyacetate such as fibers, cloth, rayon, etc.; v. rubber natural and synthetic such as cloth, twine, etc.; vi. dry leathers such as skin, feathers, etc.; vii. hard shells and bones.

Section 2. This ordinance shall apply to:

ARTICLE 4 Definition of Terms

Eateries/Carenderias refer to small eating places that serve light meals usually without so much amenities (no air conditioner) accommodate fewer people.

All individuals in the Municipality of Upi; Residential houses; Commercial establishments such as markets, sari-sari stores, eateries, grocery stores, department stores, lodge and boarding houses and other commercial establishments; Institutions like hospitals, clinics, health centers, schools, mosques, churches, banks, public and private offices; Industrial establishment like factories, plants, slaughterhouses, livestock facilities, mills and dryers; Transportation facilities such as buses, jeepneys, tricycle, trisikads, hauler trucks and other mode of transportation; Parks, open spaces and thoroughfares; Agricultural areas.

Compostable/biodegradable refers to: i. food/kitchen waste such as peelings, leftovers vegetables trims, fish/fowl/meat animal entrails/innards/cleanings, soft shells, seeds. ii. garden/agricultural wastes such as leaves/flowers, twigs, branches, stems, roots, trimmings, weeds, seeds/edible fruits, etc. iii. human/animal wastes such as excreta, manure/urine, carcasses, etc.

To maximize pollution arising from harmful gases, smoke, particulates produced by needless burning/dumping; polluted run-offs into water sources/supply and hazardous substances.

ARTICLE 2 Coverage

10. Feed Materials refer to all food waste peelings, vegetable trims, fish entrails, fowl innards, spoiled fruits, leftovers, egg shells, rice/ fish/meat washing, etc. that should be collected and kept in covered containers as hog/chicken/duck/pets/fish feeds. 11. Fermentable refers to fruit peelings, spoiled or over-ripe fruits juices e.g. buko juice, etc., are made into vinegar, wine or “nata-de-pina”. 12. Fertilizer Materials refer to all compostable or biodegradable such as garden waste (leaves, twigs, and weeds), animal waste (manure, carcasses), human waste (feces, urine, blood, and all excreta), soiled wipes such as tissue papers, pads, diapers (removed plastic portions) are made into compost for organic gardening. 13. Fine crafts refer to many of the non-biodegradables could be used as materials for handicrafts, cottage industries, art works, toys and other livelihood projects such as paper Mache, paper basketry, tin craft, plastic twine or rope braids, feather crafts, wooden crafts, etc. Styrofoam melted in small amount of gasoline solvents provides cheap glue of “binder” for many of the projects. 14. Hospital refers to an institution where the sick and injured are given medical cure which includes both private and public.

22. Solid Waste Management refers to the purposeful, systematic control of the generation, storage, collection, transport, separation, processing, recycling, recovery, and final disposal of solid waste. 23. Sorting at Source refers to the segregation or separation of waste at the point of generation or at the very place where they are produced into biodegradable and non-biodegradable. ARTICLE 5 Solid Waste Management System Section 8. Establishment of Sanitary Landfill Section 8.1. Legal Basis a. R.A 9003. Pursuant of the provisions of Section 5 of RA No. 9003 otherwise known as the “Philippine Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2003 “ provides that LGUs are required to maintain a sanitary landfill. b. Environmental Compliance Certificate. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have issued a certification that the Municipality have passed the final validation/ inspection for the site of Sanitary Landfill containing an area of 52,000 sq. m more or less located at Barangay Kibleg, Upi, Maguindanao. Section 8.2. Scope and Coverage This covers the proposed construction and development of Sanitary Landfill Facility (SLF) within 5.2890 hectares located in Barangay Kibleg, Upi, Maguindanao that will accommodated a total segregated residual waste of three hundred Fifty (350) tons per year. Section 8.3. General Conditions Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan The LGU - Upi shall strictly implement the following guidelines and requirements: 1.

The implementation of the solid waste management shall be in accordance with Republic Act No. 9003 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations. No toxic, hazardous, hospital and industrial waste shall be allowed to be disposed of in the Sanitary Landfill Facility.

That any use of chemicals shall be properly controlled and regulated pursuant to the provisions of RA 6969, otherwise known as “Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Act of 1990”.

That Wastewater Discharge shall be secured from this Office prior to operation of the SLF Facility pursuant to RA 9275.

That a 3”x4” Billboard Containing This Message “Notice to the Public. This Construction and Development of Sanitary Landfill Facility of Upi, Maguindanao was issued an Environmental Compliance Certificate with Ref. Code No. ECCARMM 20192013-09-120 by the DENR-ARMM on February 13, 2019”. This message must be installed at the entrance of the project to inform the public within thirty (30) days from receipt of this Certificate. Picture verification of compliance to the posting of notice shall be submitted to EMB, this Office, within ninety (90) days from receipt of this ECC.

15. Individual refers to any person who is within the vicinity of the Municipality that includes both residents and transients. 16. Livestocks are domesticated animals raised in an agricultural setting to produce labor and commodities such as meat, eggs, fur, leather and wool. It includes poultries, large cattles, piggeries, and other related activities. 17. Mills/Dryers refer to facilities handling agricultural products such as rice, corn, and other related farm produce for milling. 18. Open Dumpsites refer to any area or space (public or private) utilized as dumping ground of unsegregated waste. 19. Recycling refers to the reuse, retrieval, recommission of element/matter for any and all purposes necessary to healthful and productive living; the process by which waste materials are transformed into new products in such a manner that the original product may lose their identity. 20. Resource Recovery refer to the extraction of material or energy from wastes. 21. Solid Waste refers to any discarded materials thrown away such as garbage, rubbish, trash, litters, junk and refuse from any source (homes, businesses, farms, industries, or institutions). These are discarded materials with insufficient liquid content to flow. Examples are those non-liquid wastes resulting from the domestic, commercial, agricultural and industrial activities which can be divided into four categories/kinds;

Section 8.4. Specific Conditions: Further administrative conditions shall be strictly complied with. 5.

That approved plans and specifications of submitted drainage system and Leachate Treatment Facility for the effluents shall be strictly observed and implemented. All liquid wastes shall be properly treated and shall not exceed the DENR Effluent Standards;

That establishment of green buffer zone and planting of appropriate tree species within and along the periphery of the project shall be undertaken to help attenuate noise levels, abate

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 12, 2022 ORDINANCE NO. 2007-003 heat and absorb some pollutant emissions; 7.

That peripheral canals or ditches shall be constructed around the site to divert run-off;

That fence shall be constructed around the sanitary landfill facility to prevent unauthorized entry of waste pickers and stray animals.

The base of the landfill call per properly provided with clay liner of at least 60 centimeters thick or synthetic lines with at least 1.5 mm thick High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) membrane cover at least 60 cm thickness of compacted clay materials;

10. That a leachate collection and treatment system with installed pipes at the low areas of the liner shall be provided to collect the leachate for storage, treatment and discharge; 11. That exposed residual wastes at the landfill cell should be covered with soil of at least six (6) inches thick at the end of each working days to prevent emission of foul odor or methane gas. Sufficient soil cover materials shall be readily available in the stock place area of the facility for ready use. 12. That monitoring wells shall be constructed and maintained within the project site and identified impact areas which shall include the following; a) b)

A semi-annual groundwater qualify sampling shall be conducted and the results of the same shall be submitted to this Office; and Cisterns/holding tanks shall be installed to minimize the extraction of groundwater for domestic purposes.

13. That the proponent shall orient workers in the facility to observe proper health and sanitation practices and that annual medical check-up shall be done to monitor their health conditions;

Report to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) or other concerned office such the Office of the Barangay Chairperson, the PNP or the Office of the Municipal Mayor for any uncollected solid waste in the vicinity;

Maintain and keep clean the thoroughfares (frontage of the house to the street gutter) and grounds fronting their residences;

Section 14. Collection and Transportation

Avoid indiscriminate burning, littering, dumping and throwing of solid waste in public places including canals, streets, vacant lots, rivers, creeks, etc.

The LGU including the barangays, private owners and operators of collection vehicles for solid waste collection shall undertake the following system:

a. b. c. d. e. f.

Monitoring requirements as defined under the EMP Monitor actual project impact vis-à-vis predicted impacts and management measures in the EMP; Make recommendations for the revision of the EMP if necessary; Ensure that post-assessment permits are in place; Ensure and monitoring and reporting are undertaken; and Ensure compliance of all conditions and restriction of the approved ECC.

16. That the Environment Management Plan (EMP) incorporated in the IEE Report shall be strictly observed and implemented by the proponent to address all possible negative impacts perceived during the conduct of environmental impact assessment. 17. The DENR-ARMM reserves the right to cancel or withdraw this Certificate for misrepresentation of facts vital to the insurance of this ECC and for any violation of the conditions stipulated hereof. 18. That On-the-spot monitoring and inspection of the project can be initiated by the EMB, DENR-ARMM anytime without prior notice to ensure compliance of the proponent. 19. That in case of abandonment, the proponent shall notify the DENR-ARMM Regional Office within three (3) months prior to the abandonment and submit its abandonment mitigation plan. 20. That the proponent shall submit quarterly Self-Monitoring Report (SMR) to the EMB, DERN-ARMM using the standard format. Section 8.5. Restrictions 21. That no other activities shall be undertaken other than what are stipulated in the IEE Report. Should there be expansion of the approved areas beyond the project description, construction of other structures beyond those stated in the IEE Report or any change in the activity shall be subject to a new Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirement; 22. This Certificate shall be automatically revoked if the project will not be implemented within five (5) years from the date of its issuance or if the project is suspended of stopped for a period of more than two (2) years such that significant changes in land and resource use have accrued in the project areas and immediate vicinities; 23. That relevant permits from other concerned agencies must be secured first prior to project implementation; and 24. That in case of transfer of ownership of this project, the same conditions and restrictions shall apply. The transferee shall be required to notify this office within fifteen (15) days from the date of such transfer.

Use baskets such as those made from nito, bamboo or rattan or other reusable bags during marketing and avoid use of sando bags and other disposable cellophane-based materials;

Maximize purchase of products packaged in biodegradable, reusable or recyclable packaging materials and maximize avoidance of using disposable materials/products to reduce volume of waste generated;

Segregate properly their generated solid waste into 4 types: (1) compostable; (2) recyclable; (3) non-recyclable; and (4) special waste, by using separate and properly labeled receptacles/containers with cover for sanitary and efficient handling. Unsegregated solid waste shall not be collected by the appropriate agency/ies;

Reuse materials that are reusable or recyclable such as cans, bottles, plastics, papers, cartons, etc. or recycle these materials into other products or sell to junk dealers/buyers;

Put-up backyard composting facility such as drums, tires, or other composting methods for compostable waste materials;

Bring out segregated solid waste in front of the gate or door or along the route of collection vehicle or cart during collection period or when the collection truck has already arrived. The specific collection scheduled shall be determined and properly disseminated by the concerned agency;

Toxic and hazardous wastes such as empty chemical containers shall not be thrown or dumped anywhere but must be kept in sealed containers (e.g. drums) or containment facility (e.g. septic tank/vault.)

Unsegregated solid wastes shall not be collected.

All commercial, market and industrial establishments shall undertake the following solid waste management system.

Segregated solid wastes shall be collected separately and must not be mixed in one collection vehicle unless the vehicle has separate compartments for segregated solid wastes.

Establish properly disseminated collection schedule for various segregated solid wastes.

If collection vehicle is a dump truck, cover shall be provided during transit to the processing center or disposal facility to avoid scattering and spilling of solid waste.

Collection drivers and crew members shall be properly trained on the collection system and must be provided with personal protective equipment such as overalls, gloves, boots and masks.

Minimize volume of waste;

Maximize purchase of products that are packaged in biodegradable, reusable or recyclable packaging materials and avoid using disposable materials/products to reduce volume of waste generated;

Segregate properly their generated solid waste into four (4) types 1) compostable; (2) recyclable; (3) non-recyclable; and (4) special waste, by using separate and properly labeled receptacles/containers with cover for sanitary and efficient handling. Unsegregated solid waste shall not be collected by the appropriate agency/ies;

If area is available, put-up backyard composting for composting for compostable waste materials;

Bring out segregated solid waste in front of the gate or door or along the route of collection vehicle or cart during collection period or when the collection truck has already arrived. The specific collection schedule shall be determined and properly disseminated by the concerned agency;

Maintain and keep clean the fronting sidewalks, canals and immediate grounds/areas of the establishment;

Avoid indiscriminate burning, littering, and dumping/throwing of solid waste in public places including canals, streets, vacant lots, rivers, creeks, etc.;

Industrial toxic and hazardous waste shall be disposed of in accordance to the provisions of RA 6969 by the concerned industries.

Section 15. Materials Recovery Facility a)

There shall be establishment of Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in every barangay as required by RA 9003 for temporary storage of recyclables and composting of compostable materials. The area and size of the MRF shall depend on the volume of recyclables and compostables to be collected by the barangay.

The barangay shall allocate specific budget for the establishment of MRF in their barangay.

The barangay shall operate the MRF in partnership with nongovernment organization, people’s organizations, or the private sector.

The Municipal Government shall establish its own MRF to complement the barangays that can not afford to put up its own MRF.

Section 16. Disposal The LGU shall prohibit the use of open dumpsite and establish controlled dumpsite as its disposal facility. The operation of the controlled dumpsite shall be in the following manner: a)

Establish an appropriate permanent site as controlled dumpsite

Section 11. Institutions (Schools, Offices, Churches, Hospitals, etc)

Provide a well-maintained all-weather access roads.

All institution shall undertake the following solid waste management system:

Ensure security fencing of the facility for environmental reasons as well as elimination of access of human and animal scavengers.

To reduce volume of solid waste generation, minimize the use and purchase of disposable materials and patronize products that are packaged in reusable /recycles/materials;

Keep basic records of waste received daily and other related incidents.

Segregate properly their generated solid waste containers with cover for sanitary and efficient handling. Unsegregated solid wastes shall not be collected by both appropriate agency and organization;

Cover daily all solid wastes with inert materials or soil at least 6 inches in thickness. This shall apply at the end of working day.

Provide aerobic and anaerobic decomposition to control odor.

Provide septic vault for the disposal of special and residual waste.

Provide at least 0.60 meters final soil cover at closure, and postclosure maintenance of cover, drainage and vegetation.

Reuse materials that are reusable or recyclable such as cans, bottles, plastics, papers, cartoons, etc., or recycle these materials into other products or sell to junk dealers/buyers;

If area is available, put-up backyard composting for compostable waste materials;

Bring out segregated solid waste in front of the gate or door or along the route of collection vehicle or cart during collection period or when the collection truck has already arrived. The specific collection schedule shall be determined and properly disseminated by the concerned agency;

Section 17. The collection pattern will start at Poblacion covering all Puroks, municipal streets and national highway, public market, business district, institution and offices and health related sources with established common collection points. Far-flung barangay will be covered. Section 18. An Ordinance Adopting the Interim Guidelines on the Management of COVID-19 Related Health Care Waste in the Municipality of Upi, Province of Maguindanao A. Policy Content and Guidelines Section 18.1. On Generated Wastes

Maintain and keep clean the fronting sidewalks, canals and immediate grounds/areas of the institution;

LGUs shall consider all COVID-19 related wastes as potentially infectious and contaminated health care wastes.

Avoid indiscriminate burning, littering, dumping and throwing of solid waste in public places including canals, streets, vacant lots, rivers, creeks, etc.;

Section 18.2. On Segregation and Storage at Source

Section 9. Household /Residential All residents shall undertake the following solid waste management system:

Section 10. Commercial Establishments, Markets & Industries:

14. That the open dumping and burning of wastes anywhere is strictly prohibited. 15. The proponent shall employ or designate a Pollution control Officer (PCO) in accordance with DENR Administrative Order 2014-02, who shall handle the environmental aspects of the project, which shall have the following responsibilities;

but properly composted.

Funeral, hospital, pharmaceutical, waste must be stored, collected, transported and disposed of in accordance with the guidelines, rules and regulations of the Department of Health (Refer to the Manual on Hospital Waste Management, PD 856 known as the Sanitation Code of the Philippines).

Section 12. Public Transportation Vehicle (PUV’s, etc.) & Facilities (Terminals, etc.) All public transportation vehicles and facilities shall undertake the following solid waste management system: a)

Buses, jeepneys, tricycles, and trisikads must provide waste receptacles/containers for its passengers.

Operators of transport terminals must provide separate receptacles for compostable, recyclable and non-recyclable materials placed strategically around the terminal premises conveniently accessible to passengers.

Bring out segregable solid waste along the route of collection vehicle or cart during collection period or when the collection truck has already arrived. The specific collection schedule shall be determined and properly disseminated by the concerned agency.

The driver/conductor/operator of the public transport vehicles must ensure that the passengers are properly informed to throw their solid waste into the receptacles.

Section 13. Agricultural Areas All farm owners or operators shall undertake the following solid waste management system: a)

Agricultural wastes such as rice straws, corncobs, animal manure and other biodegradable materials shall not be burned

The Local Government of Upi shall strictly implement proper waste segregation at source, and shall ensure that COVID-19 related wastes are not mixed with other domestic solid wastes but are rather stored in yellow bags, container, bins properly labeled.

The Municipality shall ensure that all Barangays within their jurisdiction shall enforce proper segregation at the household level so that COVID -19 related wastes are not mixed with biodegradables/compostable, recyclable and residual wastes.

The Municipality shall make available proper storage bags and container bins following the national standard to store infectious wastes.

The Barangays shall ensure that all households have container bags/bins which shall be used as storage for COVID-19 related wastes.

The Barangays shall, as much as practicable, provide households with adequately labeled storage bags or bins where the same could temporarily store their COVID-19 related wastes.

The BESW Team shall collect the COVID-related waste in every household in their barangay once a month. COVID-related waste shall be immediately stored in the septic vault.

The Municipality and the Barangays shall strictly monitor and ensure that waste collection personnel abide to the following guidelines:

The Municipality shall ensure that all waste collection personnel, whether LGU-managed or contracted, are oriented on the proper handling of COVID-19 related wastes, and the hazards associated with it.

The Municipality shall ensure that all personnel directly engaged in the collection, transport, and storage, and treatment and disposal of COVID-19 related wastes must be and/or goggles, gloves, and

February 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

ORDINANCE NO. 2007-003 closed shoes/industrial boots, which shall be used at all times.

officials. Failure of the LCE and the Sanggunian Members to comply with this provision, as deemed necessary by existing facts and circumstances, shall be tantamount to violation of the provisions of these guidelines.

Section 18.3. Treatment and Disposal The LGU shall: 1.

Ensure that COVID-19 related wastes are properly treated with available technologies (i.e. sterilization, thermal processing like pyrolysis and gasification, incineration, etc.) approved by DENR, DOH and other concerned regulatory agencies. The microbial laboratory test results shall be submitted to DOH and DENR for validation as prescribed. In case of contracted waste service providers, the LGU shall require the provider to give the LGU a copy of any document issued by the DOH or the DENR, either approving the technology used or a copy of the test results duly received by the DOH and DENR. Ensure that its waste disposal facilities, whether own facility or contracted, follow the guidelines provided hereunder. The LGU is encouraged to conduct regular inspection to strictly monitor its operations:

Treated infectious and contaminated health care wastes and/or residues shall have a dedicated separate cell within the approved sanitary landfills where such shall be disposed of;

Waste disposal personnel must be informed and aware of the classification of wastes being delivered to take precautionary measures, and to maintain a safe distance from, and avoid direct contact with the wastes;

A manifest system shall be implemented to ensure that the collected infectious waste are properly recorded, treated and disposed;

Collect the records generated in its designated disposal facilities for monitoring purposes.

The DILG Regional Offices, through their legal departments, shall submit to the Legal and Legislative Liaison Service, copy furnished the offices of the Undersecretary for Local Government, the Undersecretary for operations and the Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs, all reports relative to monitored, and/or confirmed violations of local government units of any provisions of these guidelines.

Section 20. Functions of the Municipal Ecological Solid Waste Management Board (MESWMB).

The Local Government Unit of Upi shall secure the compliance of their waste service providers to the following:

Periodically assess and monitor the implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management in the Municipality of Upi.

•

Development and formulation of own occupational health and safety (OHS) plan for the strict implementation and guidance of their personnel, consistent to the OHS Plan of the LGU;

Monitor and evaluate range of compliance with respect to reduction and segregation at source, to include backyard composting per barangay.

Adherence to enhanced hygiene norms, including frequent change and cleaning and disinfection of PPEs (including, but not limited to, reusable coveralls, face masks and/or goggles, gloves and closed shoes/industrial boots);

Review and refinement of procedures for SWM operations and enforcement.

Review and refinement of incentives command and control system to reinforce the proper practice of solid waste management.

Regularly meet at least quarterly to assess the implementation performance of the MESWM Office.

The fees shall be collected according to the following levels:

c.2. Municipal Level – the municipal SWM Board shall define the manner of collection of fees consistent with the accounting and auditing system of the local government.

The Municipal Ecological Solid Waste Management Board (MESWM) shall be composed of the following: Chairman: Municipal Mayor Vice Chairman: MENRO Members: Law Enforcement Agencies (PNP, AFP, BPAT) District Supervisors Head of Schools Women Sector CSOs Religious Organizations Barangay Chairmen

According to SW general type; Cost of management; Cost of construction; Type of technology.

c.1. Barangay Level - the Barangay may impose fees for collection and segregation of compostable and reusable wastes from households, commence, other sources of domestic waste, and for the use of Barangay MTFs. The computation of the fees is based upon the user fees established by the municipal SWM Board. The manner of collection of the fees shall dependent on the style of administration of respective Barangay Councils. However, all transactions shall follow the Commission on Audit rules on collection of fees.

Section 19. Composition of the Municipal Ecological Solid Waste Management Board (MESWMB).

Formulate policies for the implementation of ESWM for adoption of Sangguniang Bayan.

•

ARTICLE 6 Creation of the Municipal Ecological Solid Waste Management Board

Section 18.4. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)

b.3. b.4. b.5. b.6.

c.3. Private Sector/civil society group – on the basis of the stipulation of contract or Memorandum of Agreement, the private sector or civil society group shall impose fees for collection and transport of segregated solid waste as established by the Municipal SWM board. Receipts and invoices shall be issued to the paying public or to the government. d)

Collection & Retention of Fines – the collection of fines under the penal provisions of the act and this ordinance shall be conducted by the Municipal SWM Board or any authorized body. The collection shall be given receipts. The Municipal SWM Board shall determine the retention & remittance rate.

Special SWM Account – the Municipal SWM Board shall establish appropriate special accounts for the fines, fees, donations and other monies collected or generated under this ordinance. ARTICLE 8 Education & Advocacy

Section 24. Integration of ESWM in School Curricula and Various Programs of Local and National Government a)

Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) shall be integrated in the elementary and high school curricula, and shall be a special program for the college (both public and private) through the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education and Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Non formal education.

ESWM shall be integrated in the pre-marriage counseling and in seminar and training programs of the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture (DA) and other agencies.

ESWM shall be integrated in the community outreach programs of the schools, civic Organizations, religious groups, NGOs, POs, GSP, BSP, Red Cross, and other relevant Organizations. Free ESWM training shall form part of the requirements in procuring business license/permits to operate.

•

Ensuring the availability of disinfectants, and hand sanitizers in every collection vehicles;

•

Conduct of orientation to train workers on the proper usage, and maintenance of PPEs;

•

Conduct of trainings on OHS, including description of the hazards in the workplace, environmental and administrative controls, properties of PPEs, etc.;

Section 21. Financing

•

Observance of basic hygiene practices (i.e. wash hands with soap and water, avoid touching face, mouth, eyes, nose or open sores and cuts while handling infectious or special waste, etc.) of waste workers to reduce risks, and protect them from illness due to exposure to COVID-19 related wastes; and

There shall be an allocation of specific budget for SWM from Annual Investment Plan of the local government:

There shall be creation of a Local Solid Waste Management Fund, also known as The FUND which shall be a special account in the local treasury and administered by the municipal ESWM Board.

The MSWMB shall source out the fund from the following:

Section 25. Information Dissemination. There shall be information dissemination of ESWM through communications systems like broadcast media (TV, radio, films) and print (handouts, brochures, billboards, streamers, signboards, news features, strikers, t-shirts).

•

Make available handwashing stations in the garage and motorpool, nd waste treatment and disposal facilities to ensure hand hygiene practices.

ARTICLE 7 Financing, Incentives & Cost Recovery

c.1. Loans, grants, donation & contributions from local & foreign sources; c.2. Collection from garbage fee; c.3. Collection from fines & penalties; c.4. Sales from recyclable & reusable waste; c.5. 10% to be taken from 20% Local Development Fund; c.6. National Solid Waste Management Fund; c.7. Rentals from post-closed controlled dumpsite.

Section 18.5. Institutional Mechanism The Local Government of Upi shall: •

Establish a composite team in their Local Solid Waste Management Board that shall include, among others, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer of his/her designate, the Municipal Health Officer, a representative from the Sanggunian and the president of the Liga ng mga Barangay of the municipality or its equivalent position, to develop necessary programs, and to cause the implementation of the provisions of these guidelines;

•

Empower the Barangay Ecological Solid Waste Management Committees (BESWMC) to support the strategies and measures of the municipality on proper management of COVID-19 related wastes.

•

Develop a COVID-19 waste management plan consistent with all existing and relevant guidelines, and shall strictly implement the same. The COVID -19 waste management plan shall be incorporated as an addendum and submitted as part of the updating of the LGU in its 10-year Solid Waste Management (SWM) Plan. Barangays, through their BESWMC, shall prepare their compliance plans to the measures as incorporated in the municipal COVID-19 waste management plans.

•

Together with their component barangays, allocate or realign a portion of their funds to adequately support the proper implementation of their COVID-19 waste management plan, and

•

Together with their component barangays, conduct orientations and other information, Education and Communication (IEC) strategies to all concerned stakeholders on proper management of COVID-19 related wastes.

•

Provide each barangay storage bins which shall serve as septic vaults, colored yellow (rubberized drums) which shall be properly in the MRF for safety. It shall be properly sealed and be taken-cared of by the BESW Team since it contains toxic waste materials.

Section 18.6. Reporting and Monitoring. The DILG Regional Offices shall facilitate the monitoring of LGUs compliance through the prescribed template. The DILG Regional Offices shall submit a consolidated report to the Bureau of Local Government Supervision (BLGS) every end of the quarter, to be submitted on the 10th day of the succeeding month. Section 18.7. Dissemination. All DILG Regional Directors and the BARMM Minister of Local Government are herby directed to cause the widest dissemination of this Memorandum within their respective area of jurisdiction.

2. 3.

The Municipality shall exercise its power of supervision over barangays, and shall, through its Sanggunian, at the instance of the local chief executive, hear violations, misconduct, and/or dereliction of duty of barangay officials and impose sanctions as maybe allowed by existing laws against such erring barangay

The criteria for BLGU and private sector to avail fund shall be focused on the SWM plan of the proponent from which the project/activity was designed and approved by the MSW Board. Only one project/activity shall be eligible for support. Proponent may avail the SWM fund once in every 3 year but not the same project/activity.

Section 22. Incentives Incentives shall be provided to encourage BLGU and private sectors to participate in developing socially accepted, effective and efficient SWM program. The incentives shall include: a) Rewards - shall be provided to BLGUs, individuals, private organizations, NGOs, CSOs, that have undertaken outstanding innovative projects, technologies, processes and techniques or activities in the reduction, reuse, and recycling. The reward shall be appropriately sourced from the local ESWM Fund or other external sources.

Promote Solid Waste Management through plugging in all cinemas, radio and TV stations.

Stickers, posters or signboards shall be placed in all public utilities, transportation (buses, jeepneys, taxis, tricycles, trisikads, skylab - single motorcycle for hire).

Local Manufacturers shall place symbols or instructions on Solid Waste Management on all product labels and advertisements.

Garbage trucks/compactor shall be equipped with public address system and make use jingles or music while collecting.

Slogans, instruction and ordinances must be placed in strategic places (public markets, terminals and parks) through billboards, signboards and sound system as regular reminders.

Primers, flyers and brochures shall be furnished to all households.

Section 26. Seminars and Trainings. There shall be scheduled seminars and trainings to be conducted to all sectors including government employees, teachers, students, commercial and industrial establishment, religious organizations, civil society organizations (NGO’s, PO’s) media sector, PNP, and Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Grants - the BLGU SWM Committee and private sectors with SWM plans shall be eligible to receive project/activity grants.

Section 27. Upi Ecosavers Program. The Upi Ecosavers Program is an innovative recycling scheme conceptualized by one of the members of the Philippine Youth Leadership Program (PYLP). This program is implemented by PYLP in coordination with LGU of Upi and the different schools in order to promote a culture of discipline among the youth through ecological solid waste management. At the LGU level this program is being lodge in the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO). In order to encourage greater participation among the youth and students, a points and incentives systems were highlighted and achievers were awarded with corresponding cash incentives and recognition such as Best Eco-Savers Student and Best Eco-Savers Class.

Technical assistance - provide technical assistance to qualified prospective SWM project proponents.

ARTICLE 9 Enforcement Mechanics

Knowledge and skill enhancement - the SWM board shall arrange cross study visits to areas in and outside the region in order to model SWM projects. The travel cost requirements shall be in consonance with existing rules and regulations.

Section 28. Enforcement Mechanics – the following shall be the enforcement mechanism to effectively implement this ordinance.

1. 2. 3.

The SWM board shall formulate standards of innovativeness, pro-activity, exemplary and outstanding SWM endeavors. The ESWM Board shall determine the amount of the rewards. There shall also be recognition of exemplary performance, criteria of which shall be determined likewise by the ESWM Board.

There shall be recruitments, screening, and training of volunteers to be deputized as SWM enforcers. The volunteers shall be identified and endorsed by the MSWMB through a Board Resolution to the Local Chief Executive. The Mayor shall issue an appointment and issue identification cards to the volunteers who will be deputized.

There shall be issuance of charge sheet or citation tickets to all violators who will be caught violating the provisions of this ordinance.

The SWM service fees shall be computed based on but not limited to the following minimum factors.

There shall be provisions of incentives to the enforcers which the SWM Board shall determine accordingly.

b.1. Volume of waste; b.2. Distance covered in the transport;

There shall be establishment of hotlines for coordination and monitoring.

Section 23. Cost Recovery a)

Section 18.8. Penalties. LGU officials who fail to comply with the provision of this Memorandum Circular may be penalized in accordance with existing laws and policies. 1.

Criteria for the availment of Local SWM Fund

The SWM Board shall impose user fees on the services provided by the LGU or its authorized organization or unit. It shall determine the amount of user fees only when it is based on a study and with proper consultation with various sectors. A supplemental ordinance shall be passed in support of this provision.

ORDINANCE NO. 2007-003 e) There shall be a conduct of contest/search to recognize best implementations of exemplary practices and initiatives of the SWM program. The Local Government through the MSWMB shall take the lead in the conduct of the contest/search. f)

The MSWMB or the appropriate agency shall conduct visits as the need arises to households, commercial and industrial establishments, schools, hospitals, offices, etc.

The local government shall provide legal assistance to enforcers/volunteers when cases are filed against them for the reason of enforcing this ordinance. ARTICLE 10 Cultural, Religious, and Gender Provisions

Failure to properly dispose industrial, toxic and hazardous waste in accordance to the provisions of RA 6969.

1st Offense – ₱ 200.00 fine and seminar on ESWM or 1 hr. community service and seminar on ESWM

Failure to properly dispose funeral, pharmaceutical, hospital waste in accordance with the guidelines, rules and regulations of the Department of Health, Hospital Waste Management and PD 856 known as the Sanitation Code of the Philippines.

2nd Offense – ₱ 1,000.00 fine and seminar on ESWM or 4 hours community service and a seminar on Solid Waste management

Failure of buses, jeepneys, tricycles, and trisikads drivers and conductors to provide waste receptacles/ containers for its passengers.

Failure of operators of transport terminal to provide separate receptacles for compostable, recyclable and non-recyclable materials placed strategically around the terminal premises conveniently accessible to passengers.

Failure of the driver/conductor of the public transport vehicles to ensure that the passengers are properly informed to throw their solid waste into the receptacles.

Burning of agricultural wastes such as rice straws, corncobs, animal manure and other biodegradable materials but should be properly composted.

Failure to properly dispose toxic and hazardous wastes such as empty chemical containers.

Section 29. Cultural Provisions a)

SWM Facilities shall be situated far from mosque, churches, cemeteries and cultural landmarks.

Collection shall not be done during prayer time/hour (12:00nn-1:00pm, 3:00pm – 3:30, and 6:00 PM - 7:00PM) and on special occasion.

Section 30. Religious Provisions a)

Religious leaders shall be encouraged to help in SWM advocacy.

SWM shall be integrated in religious practices/advocacy.

Section 31. Gender Provisions a)

Women shall be given priority for recycling and related livelihood programs.

Women shall also be prioritized for SWM employment opportunities (e.g. street sweeping, enforcers). ARTICLE 11 Punishable Acts

Section 32. Punishable Acts. The following shall constitute acts punishable according to this Ordinance: a.

Non segregation of solid waste according to compostable. recyclable, non-recyclable and special wastes with the use of properly labeled receptacle/container. Failure for residential to put-up backyard composting facilities such as drums, tires, or other composting methods for compostable waste materials.

Bringing out of segregated solid waste in front of the gate or door or along the route of collection vehicle when the collection truck has not yet arrived.

Failure to maintain and keep clean the (frontage of the house to the street gutter), sidewalks canals, and grounds fronting their residences and business establishment.

Indiscriminate burning, littering, and dumping/throwing of solid waste in public places including canals, streets, vacant lots, rivers, creeks, etc.

ARTICLE 11 Fines and Penalties Section 33. Any act done in violation of this ordinance shall subject the offender(s) to the following penalties:

1. For the individuals, vendors, rolling store, markets stalls, sari-sari stores, flowers shops, mosques, churches and residential houses; trisikads, tricycles, and the like 2. For eateries/carenderias, barbers/massage shops, dress/tailoring shops, shoe shops, parlor/ beauty shops, bake shops, boutique, coffee shops, schools, farmers: PU jeepneys, private vehicles and the like 3. For banks, offices (either public or private) printing shops, bookstores, drugstores/ pharmacies, pawnshops, lending institution; PU buses, and the like. 4. For recreational centers, entertainment spots, transport terminal/garage (private or public), clinics, inns/pension houses, hotels, grocery stores, restaurants, machines shops, warehouses, mills/dryers, appliance centers, hardware, haulers and vans and the like 5. For resorts (beach, spring, or mountain), hotels, (either public or private) airport, hotels, laboratories and the like. 6. For local government, barangays, solid waste collectors (public and private) factories/ plants, livestock, slaughterhouses, department stores/ malls, hospitals (public or private) funeral parlors, hotels and the like.

Tboli vows to safeguard IPs from NPA abuse...from P2 accomplishment, we are expecting more surrenders to happen in the next few days,” Balisi said in a separate statement on Wednesday. Major General Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the troops for the surrender of Dagul and Tata, as he also commended for the T’boli LGU’s support to the government’s

deradicalization campaign. “We are one with you in protecting your communities and families from the atrocities and exploitations of the NPAs,” Uy said Uy said the campaign to crush the NPA will continue for those who refuse to surrender. The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United

States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the NDF as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973. PNA

Rep. Caoagdan wants probe on delayed...from P1

because their houses were totally destroyed and were not allowed to return to their communities since these were declared danger zone. Local government units’ response, like building of housing units, were not enough due to lack of budget, thus the national government, through the NHA, provided funds to help LGUs in addressing the victims’ shelter needs.

“Notwithstanding the aid, both material and financial, many if not majority of the evacuees are still living in temporary evacuation sites owned by private individuals by reason that no relocation sites and housing facilities have been fully established notwithstanding the release of allocation by the national government through the NHA,” Rep. Caoagdan said in his

AFFIDAVIT

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSE ROGER P. BISCARRA, who died intestate on August 13, 2021 in Cotabato City, a parcel of land Lot 2760-D-22-C, Psd12-93806, situated at Poblacion, Libungan, North Cotabato, containing an area of 335 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT N o . T- 7 7 5 4 2 i s t h e subject of affidavit of self-adjudication before Notary Public Marylyn B. Flauta-Lim, CPA, LLM as per Doc. No. 229; Page No. 46; Book No. XCIII; Series of 2021. MC: Jan. 29, Feb. 5 & 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 12, 2022

Notice is hereby given that the late JOHNSON S. GO, who died intestate on January 16, 2021 in Cotabato City, left 2 parcels of land covered by TCT Nos. T-21251 and T-19452 with the total area of 547.67 sq. mts., more or less, both situated in Cotabato City and Cash deposit with RCBC in the amount of P167,437.55 as of Dec. 6, 2021 are the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with Special Power of Attorney before Notary Public Eugenio U. Soyao as per Doc. No. 391; Page No. 79; Book No. 51; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 5, 12, & 19 2022

resolution. Without providing the exact number of persons still in evacuation sites, Rep. Caoagdan said “until now these evacuees have to content themselves of the uncomfortable and hazardous effect of living in temporary evacuation sites since 2019.” Caoagdan said this undue delay have caused the evacuees to voice

their complaints in all platforms available “and this did not escape the knowledge of this humble representation.” Caoagdan is hopeful this resolution will be shed light on the issues raised by his constituents who have been longing to return home after surviving the difficulties brought about by the pandemic.

Republic of the Philippines Indanan, Sulu LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

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

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Wadzrena Kirantes Ispilin has filed with this office a petition for correction of entr on birth day from 29 to 28 in the certificate of live birth of Wadzrena Kirantes Ispilin who was born on February 28, 1997 at Indanan, Sulu and whose parents are Alnaser S. Ispilin and Ema Kirantes. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file a written opposition with this office not later than last day of this publication. (Sgd.) ADBULMALIK B. IMMID, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 5 & 12, 2022

In compliance with the publication requirement of 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 Ernie Montaño Franco has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Ernie Montaño Franco who was born on March 15, 1984 at Magpet, Cotabato and whose parents are Enrique T. Franco and Elizabeth L. Montaño. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file a written opposition with this office not later than February 28, 2022.

(Sgd.) CHONA M. PROVIDA, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 12 & 19, 2022

Subsequent violations - ₱2,500.00 fine and seminar on ESWM or 1 day community service fine and seminar on ESWM and revocation of business permit for establishment. Or by imprisonment of not less than one (1) day nor more than one (1) year, or both fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court without prejudice to the imposition of a higher penalty under any other law or decree such as indicated in Section 3 of Part V Rule 18 of the IRR of RA 9003 which also states “if offense is committed by a corporation, partnership or other judicial entity duly organized in accordance with law, the chief executive officer, president, general manager, managing partner or such other officer-in-charge shall be liable for the commission of the offense penalized under this Ordinance. Failure to comply with the herein provisions shall result to the cancellation of business permits. ARTICLE 12 Final provisions Section 34. Repealing Clause. All provisions of the municipal ordinance, orders or regulations inconsistent herewith are hereby amended, modified and repealed accordingly. Section 35. Effectivity Clause. This ordinance shall take effect 15 days after publication of three (3) consecutive issues on a newspapers of general circulation and shall be remain in force until it shall revoked. Enacted by the Sangguniang Bayan of Upi, Province of Maguindanao in its 44th Regular Session held at the SB Session Hall on December 15, 2021. I HEREBY CERTIFY to the correctness of the afore-stated ordinance. WILFREDO T. IBAÑEZ

Presiding Officer

ATTESTED:

MERCEDES A. SUENAN Administrative Officer V APPROVED:

RAMON A. PIANG, SR. Municipal Mayor

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late PATERNA L. SUANO who died on October 14, 2019 in Kidapawan City, left a parcel of land Lot No. 3113, Ts-268, situated at Bo. Poblacion, Mlang, Cotabato, containing an area of 657 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-114510 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with Special Power of Attorney before Notary Public Regerick L. Benito as per Doc. No. 141; Page No. 29; Book No. CXLVII; Series of 2022.

Notice is hereby given that the late FELISA BOSE BARRIOS and CONRADO BARRIOS, SR. who died on January 25, 2001 and August 13, 1982, respectively in Cotabato City, left a parcel of land situated at Brgy. Baguer, Libungan, Cotabato, containing an area of 3.1410 hectares, more or less, covered by TCT No. T-39383 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with Special Power of Attorney before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 3224; Page No. 3224; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb 12, 19 & 26, 2022

MC: Feb. 12, 19 & 26, 2022

Republic of the Philippines Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parang, Maguindanao OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Zohra Marandang Yusoph has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Male to Female in the birth certificate of Zohra Marandang Yusoph who was born on January 19, 1996 at Pacoma, Poblacion 2, Maguindanao and whose parents are Asgar Yusoph and Baimia B. Marandang. Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than February 23, 2022. (Sgd.) KARIM O. OMAR, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 12 & 19, 2022

MC: Feb. 12, 19 & 26, 2022

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Upi, Maguindanao OFFICE OF THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to Section 5 of the R.A. No. 9048, notice is hereby served to the public that Mudjahidin M. Mama has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Mudjaludin to Mudjahidin in the certificate of live birth bearing registry No. 84-00482 of Mudjaludin Mustapha Mama duly registered at the office of the Local Civil Registrar of Upi, Maguindanao and whose parent are Manguda Mama and Bai Lidang Mustapha. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file a written opposition with this office not later than February 23, 2022. (Sgd.) JEAN P. BACAS Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Feb. 12 & 19, 2022

February 12, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

PDEA arrest 13, destroy 3 drug dens in BARMM

THIRTEEN persons, including a village watchman, were arrested, three drug dens destroyed in simultaneous anti-drug operations carried by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Wednesday. PDEA-BARMM Regional Director Rogelito A. Daculla, MPA, said in a report Thursday that more than P260,000 worth of illegal drugs in sachets were confiscated during the law enforcement operations carried in partnership with the police and Philippine Army. In Marawi City, PDEA agents conducted buy bust operation in Barangay Barangay Papandayan

Caniogan that led to the dismantling of a drug den and arrested five persons, namely Asmirah Sambaie Abubakar alias Ante, Richard K. Solis, Arjun C Auditor, Sainor R. Montawa and Jalil A. Aloyodan. Their companion, alias Ano Aloyo, eluded arrest. Daculla said the PDEA agents confiscated and recovered were 17 pieces of suspected methamphetamine

hydrochloride known as shabu amounting to about PHP102,000. Agents also seized bust money, drug paraphernalia, mobile phones and identification cards. In Maguindanao, agents of PDEA provincial office conducted anti-drug operation Rosary Heights 7, Cotabato City which resulted to the dismantling of a drug den and the arrest of Sammy Sabar Racman, Nora

Rescued and rehabilitated sea turtle, released in Sarangani Bay

A male olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), which was trapped on January 29 inside a fishing net at Sitio San Vicente, Barangay Silway, General Santos City, was recently released by the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) of Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) and City Environment and Natural Resources Office of General Santos after five (5) days of recuperation. According to a

report, Victoriano Picar, the responding bantay dagat in the area, noticed a nylon string hanging from the turtle's mouth and suspected ingestion of fishing hook. Dr. Roy Mejorada, SBPS-PAMO in-house veterinarian, performed a basic surgery to remove the fishing hooks lodged in the turtle's esophagus. “We needed to perform basic surgery for the marine turtle. The hook

may disrupt its feeding, causing starvation and eventual death," Mejorada said. SBPS Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) Joy C. Ologuin said that marine turtles are indicative of a healthy bay. They signify the abundance of prey such as jellyfish, small fishes, crabs, shrimps, algae, and sea urchins within the seascape. "To date, this is the fourth marine turtle

stranding we recorded for 2022. Two of the stranded turtles were successfully released back to the sea, while the other two were already dead when they stranded," PASu Ologuin added. Sarangani PENR Officer Elvira Lumayag urged the fisher folks to refrain from fishing in areas with presence of marine turtles. "If you come upon a stranded

SAVING PAWIKAN.Veterinary Dr. Roy Mejorada performs basic surgery to remove the fishing hooks lodged in the turtle’s esophagus. The endangered Pawikan was released back to its habitat in Photo courtesy of DENR Soccsksargen Sarangani Bay.

2 NPA bomb couriers yield in SoCot

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — Two bomb couriers of the New People’s Army surrendered in T’boli, South Cotabato over the weekend, a regional Army official told Mindanao Cross this week. The duo, whose names were withheld pending their relocation to safe areas, belonged to the NPA’s self-styled Guerilla Front-Far South Mindanao Region. Major Gen. Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said Tuesday the two NPAs yielded through

the intercession of the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion and T’boli Mayor Dibu Tuan. Tuan is chairperson of the multi-sector T’boli municipal peace and order council. More than 100 NPAs have surrendered in batches to units of 6th ID in central Mindanao since last year. The duo have confessed to reporters their roles as couriers of improvised explosive devices used in the bombing in the past five years of public conveyances and

construction equipment whose owners refused to shell out protection money on a monthly basis. Uy said the 6th ID and the office of Tuan shall cooperate in reintroducing the two NPAs who have renounced their membership with the group after turning over their firearms and grenade launchers to the 5th SF Battalion during a symbolic rite last weekend in Barangay Laconon in T’boli. John Felix Unson

BARMM MHSD begins home projects in Tawi-Tawi

FOUR municipalities in Tawi-Tawi will benefit from resettlement projects of the Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD). Officials said the MHSD, the housing and settlement agency of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will bankroll on a 200-unit housing, following a series of ground-breaking ceremonies from Feb. 1 to 3 for proposed settlement sites in Tandubas, SapaSapa, Bongao, and Simunul municipalities. Atty. Hamid Aminoddin Barra, MHSD minister, said that despite being a newly-established agency, all was set to fullswing implementation of programs for MHSD this season. Minister Barra said 50 houses will be constructed in each of the municipalities. The housing project in Sapa-Sapa and Tandubas are funded under the social infrastructure provisions of the Bangsamoro Appropriations Act 2021.

On the other hand, the housing project in Bongao and Simunul towns are funded under the Fiscal year 2020 BARMM Special Development Fund. “In fact, we always say: we do not commit, we do not promise, but we deliver. MHSDelivers. This is our platform of administration,” Barra said during the groundbreaking in Simunul. Tawi-Tawi Governor Yshmael Sali, provincial government officials, Bangsamoro Youth Commission Tawi-Tawi Commissioner Pratima Sabal-Samsaraji, and others, attended the ground-breaking ceremonies. “Thank you MHSD. True to your tagline, you don’t promise, but you deliver,” said Governor Sali. The provincial and municipal government units committed to provide support for the smooth implementation of the project. Nash B. Maulana

COTABATO CITY — Two members of the New People’s Army balked from burning construction equipment of three firms as ordered and surrendered instead to the Army the other day. The duo, both members of group that earlier burned bulldozers, payloaders and dump trucks of construction firms, one of which is the Gemma Construction Company, in nearby towns in South Cotabato, returned to the fold of law via the local government unit of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat and the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion. They turned over a firearm each to officials of the 37th IB before renouncing their membership with the NPA during a simple surrender rite in Lebak, a seaside town in Sultan Kudarat. The two guerillas, who pledged to reform for good in the presence of local officials, had told reporters they were ordered by their leaders to burn the construction equipment of

three private companies that refused to shell out “protection money” on a monthly basis. One of them said they hesitated to carry out the mission since most workers of the construction outfits they were to subject to arson attacks are poor members of the indigenous communities. Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the two NPAs, whose names he declined to reveal pending their relocation to safer areas, shall be reintroduced to mainstream society by local officials and the 603rd Infantry Brigade based in Lebak. The two men belonged to the NPA’s self-styled East Daguman Front-Far South Mindanao Region, whose leaders are mostly wanted for criminal cases pending in different courts in central Mindanao. More than a hundred NPAs have surrendered in batches to units of 6th ID since last year. John Felix

Two more in Sultan Kudarat bolt from NPA

Unson

Dawlah Islamiya revenge plot foiled

THE Dawlah Islamiya members killed in a clash with soldiers Monday and the two others arrested the same day were out to avenge the death of a bomb-maker shot dead by Marines last week. Police and military intelligence officials said Tuesday the slain Arafat and Gazali, who perished in a gunfight with personnel of the 51st Infantry Battalion in Barangay Palacat in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur Monday, were out to avenge the death of companion Saifudin Ayok in a clash with Marine troops the week before. Ayok, an expert in fabrication of improvised explosive devices, was killed in a brief gunfight with personnel of the 1st Marine Brigade in Barangay Lumbac in Balabagan, Lanao del Sur. “Arafat and Gazali were identified with Polo Alim, leader of the group where

Ayok belonged,” an Army official said Tuesday. Three senior police officers separately corroborated the assertion of the Army official. Two other Dawlah Islamiya members were arrested in a joint Army-police operation in Barangay Talao in Piagapo three hours after the encounter in Barangay Palacat that resulted in the deaths of Arafat and Gazali. The now detained duo had confessed to their supposed terror plot against Marine and Army personnel in Lanao del Sur in retaliation for the death of Ayok. The police and Army team that arrested the two Dawlah Islamiya members recovered from them components for improvised explosive devices and pistols. John Felix Unson

Drug den owner, cohorts nabbed in GenSan GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Four shabu dealers and a drug den operator fell in an entrapment here, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-12 announced Thursday. Naravy Duquiatan, director of

PDEA-12, said Thursday agents had seized from the suspects P74,000 worth of shabu on Tuesday. Drug den owner Brad Joshua del Rosario, 26, and his accomplices, Zipporah Reyes, 26,

Giselle Abacacial, 20, Francis John Faeldonia Chong, 30, and Jasper Cadeliña, 25, are now in the custody of PDEA-12, awaiting prosecution. They were arrested after selling their illegal merchandise

to non-uniformed PDEA-12 agents during a sting at noontime Tuesday at the Superville Subdivision in Purok 31 in Barangay Lagao here. Duquiatan said the operation that resulted in their arrest was assisted by the General Santos

City Police Office. The five detained suspects have been charged with violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. John Felix

Unson