The Mindanao Cross | February 18, 2023

Small acts of kindness can change society— Cardinal Tagle

KAGI MURAD LETS WARRING MORO CLANS “SMOKE PEACE PIPE”

By Edwin O. Fernandez

UPON the intervention of the chief minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), two warring Muslim clans on Wednesday have “smoked the pipe of peace” and vowed to work for peace in their communities.

The representatives of warring Moro families, Ibay and Tomawis clans, have hugged each other and exchanged “As-salaam alaikum” (Peace be with you) and each replied “Wa-alaikum as-salaam” (And peace be with you too).

During the emotional yet festive reconciliation program held at the BARMM executive building, BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Kagi Murad” Ebrahim said the settlement was a mutual decision of both parties that was mediated by the Bangsamoro Government.

“Everyone knows that this reconciliation has no pre-condition, both sides have no request whatsoever in exchange for the dispute settlement,” Minister

Ebrahim said.

“Everybody is sincere as they have been working together in the areas of Parang, Barira, and Buldon. So, I am very happy finally, they decided to come together,” he said as members of both clans applauded.

Former Barira town Mayor Barok Tomawis of the Tomawis Clan and former Parang Mayor Dr. Ibrahim Ibay of the Ibay Clan led their respective families in ending a decade-long political dispute.

He added that the two political clans, residing in the northern part of Maguindanao del Norte’s towns of Parang, Barira and Buldon, more known as “Iranun country,” agreed to end their decades-long feud because

Local sectors bewail ambush of 3 children in Pikit

By John Felix Unson

VARIOUS sectors are ranting on the death of a 13-year-old boy in the latest gun attack in the troubled Pikit town in Cotabato that left two other 12-year-old children wounded.

Classes in the troubled Pikit town in Cotabato are suspended Wednesday until Friday following the incident that shook the communities in the hostile Pikit town to the core.

Three members of the 80seat parliament in the Bangsamoro

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao - Kadil Sinolinding, Jr., Suharto Ambolodto and Datu Jambo Matalam - on Thursday condemned the incident in separate statements and urged the police to identify the culprits for immediate prosecution.

No fewer than 40 people had been killed since 2021 in shooting incidents in Pikit, located in the first district of Cotabato province, all unsolved.

Two members of the business

THE United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) has expressed deep concerned over the shooting to death of a 13-year-old child in Pikit, Cotabato on Tuesday.

In a statement released here, Unicef Philippines deputy representative Behzad Noubary, said: “The killing of innocent

of their greater desire for sustainable peace and development in their towns.

Efforts to reunite the warring families started last year with the chief minister listening on the issues from leaders of both sides.

Minister Ebrahim said the Bangsamoro Government has adopted a holistic approach to unite the Bangsamoro.

He said the existence of “rido” (family feud) involving huge Moro families, if remained unsolved, will hamper progress and development across BARMM.

“This is holistic approach, this is not tribal, we want all of us to unite regardless P3

By Edwin O. Fernandez

children is unacceptable and must stop.”

“Children must be protected at all times and their best interests must be the guiding principles in every action by government and the community,” he added.

Noubary said under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)

and Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, the Philippines including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has a legal and moral obligation to promote, protect and fulfil the human

More wildlife rescued from on-line sellers in R-XII

Kins: Marine killed in Lanao Sur a good man

SPREADING LOVE. Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, police regional director for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) offers roses as symbols of love on Feb. 14 , 2023 in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte. Other police officers across BARMM also did the same. Photos courtesy of PROBAR

“Children must be protected at all times,” Unicef says

HAPPY TO SERVE. Partners of DXMS Radyo Bida join the station’s 66th founding anniversary by providing free health, medical and dental services, free legal consultation, free haircut and sim registration, among others, to the public.

Photo by Karl John Daniel

More wildlife rescued from on-line sellers in R-XII

KORONADAL CITY – Another set of endangered wildlife composed of 39 birds in cages, were confiscated by environment workers in Glan, Sarangani, more than a week after it rescued 21 endangered birds from a vlogger in Tampakan, South Cotabato.

Dr. Rosalinda Cortez, community environment officer of Glan, said the cages containing 39 endangered birds were recovered from a house in Barangay Pangyan.

The unidentified vlogger, who remained at large, had been engaged in hunting and selling of various birds using online platform.

Cortez said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 12 is preparing complaint against the vlogger for hunting and selling of birds, a violation against RA 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.

“The law prohibits possession and collection of wildlife species without necessary permits from DENR,” said Forester Garez Christian Al-ag, chief of CENRO Glan monitoring and enforcement section.

Cortez said that a total of 39 caged for sale “WhiteEared Brown Doves,” locally known as “Alimokon,” were seized by the team on February 13, including those surrendered by some residents upon learning that it is strictly prohibited by law.

Atty. Felix S. Alicer, DENR-12 regional executive director, commended the villagers who tipped DENR personnel and Major Andre Banguel Jr, Glan police chief, for helping save the wildlife species that are now under the temporary custody of DENR-12 Regional Wildlife Rescue Center for health examination before they will be released back to their natural habitat.

“The DENR continues to strengthen its surveillance and monitoring against illegal wildlife trade,” Alicer said, adding that his office is urging the public “to report any illicit wildlife activities to help us maintain the balance in our ecosystem.”

The seized Glan birds will be released back to its natural habitat in due time, Alicer said.

On Feb. 1, a total of 21 wildlife species were also confiscated by DENR-12 from wild-hunting vloggers in Tampakan, South Cotabato who were selling birds using the social media Facebook. Charges have been filed against the Tampakan bird hunters who remained at large.

The recovery of wild life in South Cotabato and Sarangani came five days after the DENR-12’s monitoring team spotted a solitary sea cow, locally known as “Dugong,” in Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS), playfully swimming in the bay.

The monitoring team and Protected Area Management Office of SBPS sighted the sea cow on

INDIGENTS who have sight issues in one of the country’s remotest communities but have not seen an eye specialist since birth were treated to a free eye-screening medical mission and cataract surgery, a Bangsamoro lawmaker today said.

On Wednesday, Amir Mawallil, member of parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), said he organized the medical mission along with the BARMM Ministry of Health after learning many indigents have eye issues.

About 690 indigent residents of a remote community of Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi have availed Sunday of free eye-

February 8 floating on the water surface at a safe distance from the shore of Barangay Kawas, Alabel town. A drone shot showed how huge the “Dugong” was.

Maria Elvira V. Lumayag, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) of Sarangani, said the sightings of “Dugong” was an indication the good health and condition of the bay’s coastal and marine ecosystems.

“The presence of sea cows in the SBPS is a valuable indicator of the success of DENR’s conservation efforts in the region,” she said.

“The sighting is an opening salvo of the upcoming

27th anniversary of the protected seascape. The SBPS week provides an opportunity to celebrate the success of conservation efforts in the region and to continue to raise awareness on the importance of environmental protection and conservation,” Joy C. Ologuin, protected area superintendent of the SBPS, said.

RED Alicer said DENR-12, through the PENRO Sarangani, continues to monitor and protect the marine and coastal habitats in the area to ensure the longterm survival of the dugongs (listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature) and other species in SBPS. EOF

Sitangkai indigents get gov’t free eye check-up, surgery

screening medical mission, including cataract surgery in an activity held at the town’s covered court.

MP Mawallil said many indigents who have blurry or poor vision have benefitted from the outreach program and can now, once again, clearly see the beauty of Sitangkai, an island town close to Borneo in Malaysia.

“The smiles of our senior-beneficiaries were heartwarming after they underwent screening, cataract pterygium surgery, and eventually getting free eyeglasses,” MP Mawallil said in a statement.

“Thanks to MP Mawallil for bringing it here, we almost lost

COMMISSION on Elections

hope of seeing anew until this project came over,” a 62-year-old Tausug eye patient named Abdul said in Pilipino. “Life is beautiful again,” he added.

“This is our way of reaching out to our people in the island provinces,” Mawallil said, adding his office will continue organizing similar outreach programs for the indigents in other parts of BARMM.w

Last December 9, MP Mawallil, along with MP Eddie Alih and eye physician MP Kadil Sinolinding Jr also conducted joint medical outreach program in Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi that benefitted more than 220 indigent eye patients. EOF

Comelec chair vows justice for slain poll officer 2 more hurt in latest gun attacks in Pikit, Cotabato

(Comelec) chair George Erwin Garcia on Tuesday vowed to seek justice for the slain election officer in Maguindanao del Sur who was shot dead in Lambayong town, Sultan Kudarat.

"The Commission on Elections strongly condemns the brazen killing of Haviv M. Maindan, Election Officer II of Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao,” Chairman Garcia said.

“The whole Commission on Elections commit to the family of EO Maindan that we will not rest until justice is served," he added.

“The Comelec strongly condemns such an abhorrent act, which we believe contributes to the intimidations threatening to

weaken our people right to suffrage,” Chairman Garcia said.

“We will not take this sitting down,” he added. The barbaric perpetrators of the brutal act that took the life of one of our own will never be tolerated under my watch,” the poll chief said.

Garcia said the Comelec is now working with the Philippine National Police (PNP) regarding the incident.

"Comelec is in cooperation with the Philippine National Police regarding this incident as they are already conducting hot pursuit operations while all personnel and checkpoints were alerted for possible arrest of the assailants," he said.

“We have spoken to EO Maidan’s wife to guarantee that we are one with her in the pursuit of justice

through every legal means available, and are also assuring that all other kinds of support will be afforded to her and their four children,” Garcia said.

Maindan was driving his Toyota Fortuner with a certain Rolly traveling from Sultan sa Barongis town to Lambayong on Monday afternoon when their attackers approached and shot them several times.

The victim was hit in different parts of the body while his companion survived but was terribly traumatized.

Maindan is set to turn 56 in March. He has been working in the poll body the past 15 years.

Maindan left behind his wife and four children, all of whom are still studying, with the youngest still in elementary. EOF

TWO more residents were seriously hurt in separate gun attacks Thursday in Pikit town in Cotabato, where more than 40 people had been killed in shooting incidents in the past 24 months.

Gunmen first shot and wounded in an ambush at about 2:00 p.m. Thursday a motorcycle-riding Moro man named Guima Lopez while motoring through a road in Pikit.

About five minutes later, an attacker shot with a .45 caliber pistol a Grade 9 Visayan student

named Justine Ababon while inside a roadside store not too far from where Lopez was attacked. Both victims were immediately rushed by barangay emergency responders to different hospitals, according to the local police.

Lt. Col. John Calinga, municipal police chief of Pikit, confirmed to reporters both incidents and said probers are trying to identify the perpetrators with the help of witnesses and barangay officials.JFU

RESCUED, FREED. The endangered birds seized from a safe house of the bird hunter and seller in Glan, Sarangani are now in DENR custody and soon to be released back to the wild.

Photo courtesy of DENR Soccsksargen

IMPROVING VISION. An eye specialist from the Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) examines the eyes of an indigent resident of Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi during outreach program and medical mission.

Photo courtesy of MP Mawallil

Kagi Murad lets warring Moro clans “smoke peace...from P1

of our political affiliations and convictions,” the chief minister said in the vernacular.

“Our family commits to peace, the national government is giving us the opportunity and the faith to establish peace and develop our communities, it will go to waste if we are not united,” Tomawis said.

Ibay said his family is sincere in putting an end to this “rido.”

“We came over to offer our hand of peace with the Tomawis clan, we used to be united as one but

politics divided us, now we agree to unite anew in the name of peace,” Ibay said, adding, “our respective supporters and people suffer the most if we do not reconcile.”

Both parties intentionally never mentioned the “casualties” of the clan war so as not to hamper the “healing process.”

“Let’s move forward in the name of peace,” Ibay said.

Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, BARM interior minister, said political and security issues must

be resolved first before development sets in across BARMM.

“We cannot promote development in areas where there is violence,” Sinarimbo said in the vernacular.

Witnessing the reconciliation and reunification of two huge Moro clans were provincial and regional political leaders, 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera and First Marine Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Eric Macaambac whose unit is based in Barira.

rights of every child.

“In situations of violence and conflict, children continue to pay a heavy price,” he said.

In the statement, the Unicef official said between 2005 and 2020, the United Nations verified over 266,000 grave violations against children in more than 30 conflict situations around the world.

In the Philippines, the Secretary General’s report on Children and Armed Conflict in July 2022 revealed that 67 children have been killed and injured between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2021.

“Conflict robs children of their life and childhood. Violence threatens children’s lives and wellbeing,” Noubary said.

“They are denied access to education and essential services, and live in an atmosphere of fear. We need to end violence. Children are zones of peace,” the official added.

Fahad Dilabuan Guiamalon, 13, a resident of Barangay Macabual, Pikit and junior high school student of Pikit National High School, was killed on the spot in the shooting the sparked outrage among the locals.

Lt. Colonel John Miridel Calinga, Pikit municipal police station chief, said Guiamalon and two companions were walking home along the irrigation canal lining in Barangay Gli-Gli when unidentified gunmen positioned across the canal opened fire.

His companions were slightly injured.

The suspects fled toward the bushy area of Barangay Gli-Glib.

Mayor Sumulong Sultan has issued executive order suspending classes in all levels across Pikit and convened the municipal peace and order council.

Sultan could not say how many shooting incidents or how many persons have died in the series of gun attacks since last year.

The police refused to issue statistics as to the number of fatalities due to gun attacks in Pikit.

“Most of these cases were due to ‘rido’ (family feud),” Mayor Sultan said in an interview.

He appealed for sobriety amid the series of gun attacks and assured the local government, with the help of police and military, is addressing the issue head on.

AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS

Notice is hereby given that FLORA J. MA, of legal age, Filipino, married and resident of Brgy. Poblacion 8, Midsayap, Cotabato is the registered true and lawful owner of a parcel of land Lot No. 2586-G-2-H-2-D, Psd-12-012921, situated in Bo. Katingawan, Midsayap, Cotabato, containing an area of 329 sq. mts., more or less, covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-90831; That the said certificate of title is missing and subject of affidavit of loss before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 427; Page No. 86; Book No. CCCXXXII; Series of 2023.

MC: Feb. 11, 18 & 25, 2023

EastWest Priority Lifestyle Series brings their Lunar New Year celebration to Mindanao-based clients

EastWest Priority Lifestyle Series’ Lunar New Year celebration was taken to Davao just a day after its Cebu leg where the Bank officially opened their first Priority Center in Cebu.

This celebration for the Year of the Water Rabbit kicked off the Series’ slew of events for 2023. This was the first face-to-face Lunar New Year celebration for Priority Center clients in Davao since the Center formally launched in 2020.

The Bank’s new CEO, Visayan Mr. Jerry G. Ngo gave his well-wishes in both Chinese and Bisaya which charmed the guests. He also expressed his eagerness to forge stronger partnerships with the clients in Mindanao.

“EastWest is more than prepared to meet any movement, circumstance, and potential headwind that can happen in the local and global economy. A bank that can always and consistently provide what our customers and clients need, no matter what, is what we constantly aspire to be. I’m confident that we can easily achieve this goal, even more so with your continued support,” assures Jerry Ngo.

An outlook on what to expect for the Year of the Water Rabbit was given by Feng Shui master Patrick Lim Fernandez. Guests were also delighted with a traditional lion dance. These are Priority Lifestyle Series staples that the Bank’s clients look forward to each year.

According to Fernandez, the Year of the Water Rabbit is the peak of spring. This will bring about a reinvigoration and a reintegration back in society. He added that industries with fire and metal elements will benefit the most in the Year of the Rabbit.

“Fire industries are going to be good this year so that would be technology on the software side, energy, communications and media, entertainment and events and food,” Fernandez said.

“Other industries that are also looking good have to do with metal – banking and finance, mining, jewelry, beauty products, medical, dental and healthcare, and technology on the hardware side or equipment,” he added.

Fernandez also shared that the creativity energy will be strong in the Year of the Rabbit and people should take advantage of this to brainstorm and come up with new ideas. ‘

“But try to guard against losing focus. Don’t try to do everything at once. Try to think and choose what is important and from there you will be able to get things done,” he said.

The celebration closed with Rafael S. Algarra, EastWest’s Senior Executive Vice President gladly shared with the guests that the Bank’s portfolio has only increased and grown further in 2022 because of the steady reopening of the country and the world.

“We will continue introducing more investment opportunities to help you strengthen your portfolio according to your needs and preferences. EastWest Priority and our qualified and expert RMs will always be here to guide you, navigate the markets, and grow your wealth,” he promised.

Clients who stayed on after the program proper got the chance to win raffle prizes like 2023 Feng Shui diaries, dinner voucher, spa gift certificates, and overnight accommodations.

The EastWest Priority Lifestyle Series is part of the Bank’s efforts to thank their loyal Priority clients. The Davao leg was held on January 25, 2023 at Dusit Thani Davao.

EastWest Priority provides bespoke banking products and services to affluent clients who are business executives, business owners, scions of affluent families, next generation of family-owned corporations.

For more information on EastWest Priority's products and services, visit priority. eastwestbanker.com.

“Children must be...from P1

REUNITED. BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Kagi Murad” Ebrahim (center) places his hands when former Mayor Barok Tomas (left) and former Mayor Ibrahim Ibay shake hands during “rido” settlement mediated by the BARMM government on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023. Photo courtesy of BARMM government

Hundreds of Lanao del Sur stakeholders attend consultation on proposed Bangsamoro Local Governance Code

MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR ― Over 600 government and non-government stakeholders in Lanao del Sur participated in the public consultation in Marawi City to provide their legislative input and recommendations for the proposed Bangsamoro Local Governance Code.

Local chief executives and representatives from Lanao del Sur’s provincial, city, municipal, and barangay local government units, as well as those from the academic institutions, health, security, and private sectors, and other relevant stakeholders, were given the opportunity to share their recommendations.

The BTA Bill No. 30, or the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code of 2022, will provide a clear direction between the local government units and the Bangsamoro government. It aims to strengthen the supervisory power of the Bangsamoro government through the Ministry of Interior and Local Government.

The proposed code applies to all component provinces, cities, municipalities, barangays, and other political subdivisions, as well as Bangsamoro government offices and agencies.

General provisions, local taxation and fiscal matters, local government units, and miscellaneous and final provisions are the four books of the proposed code.

Salha Abdulmajeed, a representative of the Bangsamoro Islamic Women Auxiliary Brigade in Lanao del Sur and del Norte, claims that this is the first time the group has been consulted on a crucial piece of legislation, a bill that will give the Bangsamoro government a more responsive and accountable local government structure.

Chairman Abu Saliha Macacuna of the Bangsamoro Development Agency supported the passage of the BLGC as long as it does not violate any Islamic beliefs or national laws.

Meanwhile, the President of the Lanao del Sur Mayors’ League and Butig Mayor Atty. Dimnatang Pansar has asked for the BLGC to be passed immediately, citing provisions that will improve the quality and efficiency of basic service delivery to the Bangsamoro people.

Mayor Pansar noted that if BLGC is approved, regional and local government collaborations will be strengthened.

Other concerns on the qualification and disqualification of running elective officials, the constitutionality of the BLGC, and anti-dynasty were also raised by Lanao del Sur constituencies.

Engr. Khalid Dumagay, MILG director general and one of the people who wrote the bill, says that the Chief

Marawi draft local governance code consultation

MARAWI CITY - The proposed Bangsamoro Local Governance Code received significant feedback from government and nongovernment stakeholders in Lanao del Sur during the public consultation here.

Butig Mayor and President of the Mayors' League in Lanao del Sur, Atty. Dimnatang Pansar, urged the Bangsamoro Parliament for the immediate passage of the proposed code as it will benefit the entire Bangsamoro people.

He said that the

code includes provisions that will strengthen the collaboration between the regional and local government units, paving the way for a better and more effective delivery of basic services to the people.

The BLGC is one of the priority codes of the BTA that will provide a clear direction between the Bangsamoro government and the local government units.

Engr. Khalid Dumagay, director general of the Ministry of the Interior

and Local Government and one of the bill drafters, presented the key provisions of the proposed code.

Stakeholders in Lanao del Sur shared their comments on the BLGC's anti-dynasty provisions, constitutionality, and the qualifications and disqualifications of elective officials.

Another round of public consultations for the stakeholders in Cotabato City, the BARMM Special Geographic Area, and Manila is scheduled to be conducted in February.

BTA Science and Tech adopts internal rules

THE Bangsamoro Parliament’s Science and Technology Committee has adopted its internal rules and procedures in a meeting held today, February 10.

COST Chair Suharto Esmael emphasized the significance of adopting the internal rules given that the committee has been referred a number of resolutions and a measure proposed by the Government of the Day.

The committee also discussed the findings of a feasibility study conducted on Parliament Bill No. 37, which seeks

to establish a Bangsamoro Science High School.

Nasrudin Buisan, research and development director of the Ministry of Science and Technology, presented the findings of the study, which included information about the expected number of students enrolled, the necessary requirements of faculty and staff, the appropriate curriculum, and the evaluation of standards of the proposed science high school.

Members of the committee also agreed to hold discussions with the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education about the establishment of a science high school.

The committee has authority over all issues pertaining to science and technology, including those enacted by the Congress or the BTA-Parliament that are relevant to the Bangsamoro. These issues include scientific and technological research, development, and advancement as well as climate and weather forecasting.

Minister and his cabinet asked their ministry to write the proposed code.

The MILG, Dumagay added, conducted a series of activities for the proposed code, including policy research, data and information gathering, research, and consultation with various relevant stakeholders.

Another round of public consultations will be held for the constituencies in Cotabato City, the BARMM Special Geographic Area, and Manila in February.

MORE than 50 student beneficiaries of the Angat Bangsamoro Kabataan (ABK) Tungo sa Karunungan program received educational assistance from the office of Member of the Parliament Diamila Disimban-Ramos.

Each elementary student received

P1,000, while each high school student received P1,500. Said program is part of the 2021 Transitional Development Impact Fund project of MP Ramos, which is being implemented by the Ministry of Social Services and Development.

FOLLOWING a series of public consultations, the proposed Bangsamoro Electoral Code is now up for committee deliberations.

The Committee on Rules, chaired by Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, started discussions on BTA Bill No. 29 with a briefing on the consolidated matrix of position papers. The committee held 12 public consultations in Manila, Cotabato City,

Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and the BARMM Special Geographic Area.

They received position papers from national offices, local government unit officials, civil society organizations, election watchdogs, academe, religious sector representatives, indigenous people, women,

youth groups, and other stakeholders. Atty. Dumama-Alba said that the consolidated positions will be carefully reviewed by the committee before submitting it to the plenary in February.

The proposed electoral code will outline the structural, functional, and procedural principles governing the election of officers in the Bangsamoro region.

50 students get financial aid from MP Ramos

BTA rules committee deliberates draft BLGC

BTA rules committee continues BLGC deliberation

THE Bangsamoro Parliament’s Rules Committee has started deliberating the proposed electoral code, a measure that would create an electoral framework responsive to the needs of the Bangsamoro people.

On Saturday, February 4, the committee discussed for nearly nine hours Articles I through V of BTA Bill No. 29. These articles cover the bill's introduction, the establishment of an electoral office and its bureaus, the creation of an electoral tribunal, and the frameworks of political parties.

Floor Leader and COR Chair Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba said that the committee aims to finish its work by February 10 and submit its report when Parliament resumes session in the third week of the month.

She said that the committee is thoroughly discussing the position

papers, recommendations, and sentiments of all the various experts and stakeholders.

The electoral code is one of the priority measures that the Parliament must pass during the transition period. It will outline the structural, functional, and procedural principles governing the region's officer election.

Under the proposed measure, the Parliament will be composed of 80 members: 50% will be party representatives, 40% will be district representatives, and the remaining 10% will be reserved seats and sectoral representatives.

BTA health committee in action

IN a meeting held this morning, the Ministry of Health presented to the Bangsamoro Parliament’s Health Committee the status of various projects supported by the Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF) and Special Development Fund (SDF).

Appropriation, allotment, obligation, and disbursement for fiscal years 2020, 2021, and 2022 of TDIF and SDF were also discussed by the committee.

As presented by the MOH, among the projects funded under the TDIF are: sea medical ambulances with emergency

equipment; land medical ambulances; mobile clinics; cadaver transport vehicles; and medical scholarship program, among others.

Meanwhile, SDF projects include infrastructure and purchasing equipment for hospitals in the Bangamoro region.

The committee, according to COH Chair Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., will hold another meeting to orient the MPs with the ministry’s programs and to address any issues and concerns encountered during the implementation of TDIF and SDF.

BTA rules committee completes debate Art. 1-10 of BLGC

THE Bangsamoro Parliament's Rules Committee finished its deliberations on Articles 1 through 10 of BTA Bill No. 29, bringing the proposed electoral code one step closer to committee approval.

Following a series of public consultations, the committee immediately started deliberating the 14-article electoral code.

On Wednesday,

February 8, the committee discussed Articles 7 to 10 of the code, such as the qualification of elective local officials, regular elections of officials, the conduct of elections, electorates, and election administration.

The deliberation today was presided over by Floor Leader and COR Chair Atty. Sha Elijah DumamaAlba.

Atty. Dumama-Alba said that the committee

BTA IOs complete stratcom workshop

INFORMATION officers and staff of the Members of the Parliament from BARMM's island provinces participated in the last leg of the strategic communications workshop.

targets submitting the committee report when the session resumes on the third week of February.

The electoral code is one of the Bangsamoro Parliament's priority measures that must be enacted during the transition period.

It will outline the structural, functional, and procedural principles that will govern the election of officers in the region.

BTA committee on Bangsamoro justice system meets

THE Committee on Bangsamoro Justice System held its first meeting on Friday, February 10, to elect vice-chairpersons and adopt internal rules and procedures.

MPs Atty. Randolph Parcasio, Abdulwahab Pak, and Ramon Piang, Sr. were elected as vice chairs of the committee, the Shariah, and tribal justice, respectively.

CBJS Chair Atty. Jose Lorena said that the committee agreed to convene regularly on the second Thursday of every month.

Said committee has authority over all matters relating to Muslim personal, family, and property relations as provided for in Presidential Decree No. 1083, including

concluding commercial, other civil actions, and criminal jurisdiction over

which the Parliament has legislative power under Republic Act No. 11054.

The five-day strategic communications workshop seeks to equip all information officers with the skills they need to develop consistent branding and messaging on all communications materials, highlighting the accomplishments and efforts of the Bangsamoro

Parliament.

An introduction to strategic communications, effective press release writing, photography, visual branding, video production, and dealing with emerging trends in media, radio, and online news programs were all covered in the workshops.

Resource speakers also provided a review of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the functions and responsibilities of the Members of the Parliament.

The Public Information,

Publication, and Media Relations Division organized the workshop in partnership with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), in which information officers from the Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Lanao del Sur took part. Information officers from Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Cotabato City, and the BARMM Special Geographic Area participated in the first and second rounds of the workshop.

BTA IOs complete stratcom workshop

THE Bangsamoro Transition Authority’s Committee on Basic, Higher, and Technical Education deliberated on the proposed measure seeking to establish an Islamic institution of learning.

The BTA Bill No. 31 intends to create a madrasah, which shall be known as the Bangsamoro Regional Institute for Higher Islamic Studies.

Once it is approved, Kuliyyah Higher Learning Institution will offer Islamic and Arabic studies courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. It will promote research, advanced studies, and progressive leadership in its areas of expertise.

The proposed measure, according to Chair Eddie Alih, will repeal the Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 164, also known as the Regional Madrasah Graduate Education Act of 2003.

The committee also amended and adopted the committee's internal rules in their meeting this morning.

The committee elected chairs and vice chairs for each subcommittee, including Mohammad Kellie Antao as chair and Jaafar Apollo Mikhail Matalam as vice chair for the subcommittee on basic education; Susana Anayatin as chair and Nurredha Misuari as vice chair for the subcommittee on higher education; Ali Montaha Babao as chair and Said Shiek as vice chair for the subcommittee on technical education; Abdulwahab Pak as chair and Abdulaziz Amenoden as vice chair for the subcommittee on Madaris education; and Jaafar Apollo Mikhail Matalam as chair and Mudjib Abu as vice chair for the sub-committee on sports development.

The CBHTE has jurisdiction over all matters concerning education, schools, universities, colleges, madrasahs, the welfare of teachers and students, alternative learning systems, scholarships, and special, non-formal, and technical education and training.

Small acts of kindness can change society— Cardinal Tagle

CHRISTIANS are called to counter evil with kindness and it can be the smallest thing, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle said.

Speaking during Mass at the Sta. Maria Goretti Parish Church in Manila’s Paco district, he said that kindness doesn’t have to be a grand gesture “but let us do it God’s way”.

“We should not allow evil and wickedness to kill all hope and all goodness that we have,” Tagle said in his homily. “We start with small acts of goodness.”

“We may not be able to solve all

the problems in the world… but let us do it the way Jesus did through little acts of goodness, by being a person that will try to bring creation or humanity back to goodness,” he said.

The pro-prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization is currently in Manila to preside over the episcopal ordination of Bishopelect Pablito Tagura of the Vicar Apostolic of San Jose in Occidental

Caritas PH helps raise aid for quake victims in Turkey, Syria

THE Philippine Catholic Church’s social action and humanitarian arm is helping raise aid for victims of the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria.

The Caritas Philippines asked the dioceses across the country to have a second collection during Sunday Masses to help relief efforts in the affected countries.

“We would like to prompt and inspire generosity from you to support our Alay Kapwa Solidarity Appeal for Caritas Turkey and Caritas Syria,” said its president Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo.

“We intend to send our solidarity assistance for Turkey and Syria by the end of the month,” he

said.

The death toll has passed 34,000, but victims are still being pulled from the rubble after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck southern Turkey and western Syria.

Speaking during the Angelus address in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, Pope Francis renewed his appeal for prayers and concrete help for the quake victims.

“Let us not forget, let us pray and think what we can do for them,” he said.

Donations to “Akay Kapwa Solidarity Appeal for Caritas Turkey and Caritas Syria” may be deposited to the CBCP Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc., BPI account number 49510071-08. CBCP News

Mindoro on Feb. 17.

The cardinal also stressed that spreading kindness has the power to change lives for the better.

He added that small things, when joined together, can be an amazing force of good.

“Let us not add to the chaos and violence in the world. Let us not add to the wounds of the world,” he said. CBCP News

Inthis Sunday’s gospel, Jesus said, “Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect (Mt. 5:48). In the first reading, the Lord said to Moses, “Be holy, for I the Lord, your God, am holy” (Lev.19:1). Perfection and holiness are qualities ascribed to God. God’s perfection and holiness consist in being all-merciful, all-loving, all-just, and all-compassionate, and many other positive qualities we identify with God. Of course, we cannot exactly be perfect and holy like God because God has no equal. We can however aspire for the ideals which we find in God. God is our model of holiness.

Growing in Holiness

Reflections

Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com

cannot claim to love God and grow spiritually if he is lacking in human virtues. There is a principle in theology that says, “Grace does not destroy nature but perfects nature” (Thomas Aquinas). Sin did not completely destroy human nature, so that our natural growth is also graced by God towards perfection. Hopefully in growing humanly, we also grow spiritually, with proper guidance along the way.

This means that we aspire to grow in many ways. By natural law we grow physically, emotionally, and intellectually, however growth is enhanced by human efforts and cooperation. Physically we eat the right food and perform physical exercises, emotionally we acquire self-knowledge and social skills, intellectually we obtain knowledge through a process of education, formal or informal. All of these processes become normal part of human growth. In addition, we also have to grow in terms of virtue and spiritual development so that we humans become more “in the likeness and image of God” as creation intended. What a misfortune it is if a person acquires physical, emotional, and intellectual excellence but is lacking in virtue and spiritual character. We decry the fact that graduates of the best schools in the land use their knowledge and skills to take advantage of others rather than enhance the well-being of their fellowmen and build the nation.

Character development is growing in the noble virtues such as self-discipline, honesty, truthfulness, fairness, compassion, and integrity. Spiritual development consists in loving God and neighbor. The traditional catechism speaks of the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. One

These reflections then point us toward the need for formation of people especially the young in terms of human and spiritual virtues. The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart. We have to form the human heart. Jesus emphasized this when he said, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks, “ ex abundancia cordis os loquitur (Mt. 12:34). Who forms the human heart so that a person grows to be loving, compassionate, just, and God-oriented?

There was a time when schools were focusing on “values education” and government offices tried to integrate “moral re-generation” in various trainings. Fine, these trainings may have some good effects. However, formation has to start earlier. We cannot just leave formation of the heart to the schools and teachers. Parents are the first educators of their children. Catechists too have an important role to play. The catechetical ministry should therefore be strengthened in the parishes and communities.

Personally, although it only took two summers in Grade 2 and 3, the Flores de Mayo had an impact in my own vocation. I can still remember going to our parish church with bunches of flowers, learning prayers and songs, playing with the other children, offering the flowers and the most exciting part, walking home in the rain after getting our treats of biscuits and candies. Finally, making our first confession and communion. Little things mean a lot, including pointing us on the path of spiritual growth.

Daily Scripture

7th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Readings: no. 341, p. 191

1st Reading: Sirach 1.1-10

Gospel: Mark 9.14-29

Readings: no. 342, p. 193

1st Reading: Sirach 2.1-11

Gospel: Mark 9.30-37

Readings: Lect. S&S, no. 219, p. 112, Lect. Wday

A, no. 219, p. 374; BG, p. 56

1st Reading: Joel 2.12-18

2nd Reading: 2 Corinthians 5.20–6.2

Gospel: Matthew 6.1-6, 16-18

Readings: no. 220, p. 377

1st Reading: Deuteronomy 30.15-20

Gospel: Luke 9.22-25

Readings: no. 221, p. 379

1st Reading: Isaiah 58.1-9a

Gospel: Matthew 9.14-15

Readings: no. 222, p. 381

1st Reading: Isaiah 58.9b-14

Gospel: Luke 5.27-32

EDITORIAL

ThePhilippines is the foremost country in Asia which can boast of a long experience in democracy and its institutions. However, an evaluation of how democracy works in the country is far from ideal. This can be traced to the party system that exists. To quote Allen Hicken , “the chronic weaknesses of the party system are the source of a variety of ills, according to scholars, including an acute “democratic deficit,” a lack of political accountability, an under-provision of public goods, and disillusionment with democracy among Filipino citizens”. The party system is so weak, that Filipinos have coined the term “political butterfly” to describe the politicians who change parties in the wink of an eye. Most political parties rely heavily on the charism of the leader (too personalized), and when the leader falls out of grace, all his members move to another political party. This may be because the party itself has no distinct character, no goals or purpose, and no plan of action on how the party will serve the constituents. Without a winnable leader, the party dissolves and is lost in oblivion. Some political parties come up with new (or integrated) parties with new names and new goals, which may exist only during elections. As expected, down the line of government, the local governments (LGUs) candidates select the party which they want to be affiliated with, at times with disregard of the purpose of the political party but with focus on the personalities who can help them win in the election. This is a big danger if one considers the regional affiliation of candidates for the coming election (2023).

Another factor to consider is the Partylist system. In its attempt to have a fair and proportional representation in the Philippine government, particularly in the legislature, the Constitution provides that the electoral process contributes to achieving this democratic feature in a policy reflected in RA 7491

As stated in RA 7491, “The State shall promote proportional representation in the election of representatives to the House of Representatives through a party-list system of registered national, regional and sectoral parties or organizations or coalitions thereof, which will enable Filipino citizens belonging to the marginalized and underrepresented sectors, organizations and parties, and who lack well-defined political constituencies but who could contribute to the formulation and enactment of appropriate legislation that will benefit the nation as a whole, to become members of the House of Representatives”.

As observed in the past elections, the party list system did not completely achieve the purpose of RA 7491. Dirty politicians who lacked a following to launch themselves in a political party organized their own organizations or coalitions and through 7491, easily got themselves entrenched in the House of Representatives. How did this politician win a sit for security guards when he himself is not one? It may cause other countries to ask how it became possible, but with shameless politicians, what else is new. MC

Four years ago, in February 2019, the Philippine government passed Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law.

RA 11203 was “relentlessly advocated” by the Department of Finance for congressional approval. In 2020, following its approval, the DOF hailed it as a “a proud achievement of the Duterte presidency, which was able to effect what Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III described as a ‘politically difficult’ reform, after around 30 years of failed attempts by previous administrations.”

It was considered as one of the “game changing reforms” implemented by the Duterte Administration, imposing farmer protection tariffs on rice imports in place of quantitative restrictions, which for then Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez broke the “stranglehold of inefficiency” in the domestic rice industry. Rice tariffication, Dominguez said, should be viewed as an “opportunity to revolutionize the agriculture sector and help farmers become more competitive in the global economy.”

Aside from the immediate goal of lowering rice prices and ensuring the stable supply of this food staple for 100 million Filipino consumers, the RTL also aims to fast-track the long-delayed modernization of the agriculture sector and help small farmers rise above rural poverty.

Did that happen? What is the situation of Filipino rice farmers now, 4 years after the RTL? We again ask: Kumusta na, Juan Magsasasaka?

In an infographic shared to media on February 14, the same day the RTL was signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2019, independent development institution IBON Foundation, Inc. compared relevant rice statistics in 2018 before the passage of the RTL and at the present time. The infographic showed that the volume of palay produced in 2018 was recorded at 19.1 million metric tons. 2022 palay production data was recorded at 19.8 million metric tons, or an increase of 700 million metric tons over four years. While this looks good at first glance, the picture becomes dire as we look at the other data provided in the infographic.

This increased production did not translate into better income for local farmers. In fact, according to the IBON infographic, the value of palay produced in 2018 recorded at Php385 billion dropped to Php344 billion in 2022. Volume of rice imports on the other hand increased from 2018’s 2.0 million metric tons to

hinking

3.0 million metric tons in 2021 or over a period of only three years. Philippine rice import dependency soared from 13.8% in 2018 to 18.5% in those three years.

Philippine rice self-sufficiency took a dip further from 86.2% in 2018 to 18.5% in 2021. The country’s 2018 rice trade deficit of US$819 million dollars ballooned to US$1.2 billion in 2021.

And how about the Filipino rice farmer? The value of his palay in farmgate price of PhP20 per kilo in 2018 has become a mere PhP17 per kilo in 2022.

In an edition of this column which we wrote in 2019, this writer quoted Federation of Free Farmers national manager Raul Montemayor saying: “the promised benefits have not come about, farmers are in dire straits, consumers have practically gained nothing, NFA is still losing money, and government has effectively lost control over the market. Only the importers and traders are smiling, happy to have been ‘liberated’ at last from competition and regulation from the NFA, and free to amass profits with minimal government intervention. “

Despite this, farmers, especially small farmers who till three hectares of land and below which make up the bulk of the Filipino agricultural communities in the countryside, still decry the lack of support from the government at every planting season. Time and again this situation force many of them to grab on to financing offered by traders in exchange for their harvest often at low prices. If such billions worth of help has indeed been provided by government, who got the bulk of it? Did these really find its way to those who need them the most? Has the RTL really fulfilled its promise of “raising the income of palay/rice farmers” by revolutionizing agriculture and helping farmers become more competitive in the global economy? Or has it instead only enriched further those who are already rich with its failed promise to the small rice farmer?

MC

is

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

Nash B. Maulana

NORTH / SOUTH COTABATO CORRESPONDENTS

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

ROADS

led Thursday (February 16) to a broad consultative clan meeting called for by Sultan Kudarat Mayor Datu Tocao O. Mastura in the midst of a contemporary challenge that literally shakes the Maguindanao Sultanate as an institution.

Up until this time, no one really has the “power of forecast” to tell about what might come out of that shura (consultation) but for one thing certain: it is meant to generate a consensus (ijma) in dealing with the issue of succession while the Sultan occupying the throne is still alive and able.

Stakeholders in a broad sphere of kinship, chiefly the SKDOP (Sultan Kudarat Descendants Organization of the Philippines) have reacted in varying ways; and adding his sharp and factual analysis at conflict management is Engineer Datu James N. Mlok, a silent descendant of the Sultanate of Kabuntalan, and the Piang Clan.

In a security review paper commissioned by the World Bank in 2011, I shared the unfortunate, bloody experience of the Sultanate of Magindanao in the terms of Sultan Bayanul Anwar and his brother Sultan Jaafar Sadiq Manamir (1725 – 1733), who was killed by his nephew (Datu Malinog) somewhere at the left riverbank of Kabuntalan (now part of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao).

Magindanao Sultan Kahar ud-Deen Kuda was slain by his cousin Sultan Shahab ud-Deen of Sulu in the rivalry between Manamir and Bayanul Anwar in 1725.

The family of Engineer Datu Macapado Benito of Balabagan and Binidayan, Lanao del Sur has signified to their relatives in Maguindanao that he is aspiring and, in fact, eyeing for the throne of the Sultanate of Magindanao. The engineer’s uncle Datu Lumna Benito was known in Balabagan and Malabang as Rajah Mudah sa Magindanao during his time.

Engineer Macapado is the son of Datu Pangadapun Benito who was anointed Sultan of Magindanao in ceremonies albeit at haste briefly preceding a Presidential meeting with Moro traditional leaders in 1981.

Heightened efforts by close relatives to dethrone then Sultan Datu Mohammad Esmael “Tato” prompted a crowning ceremony apparently unknown to and certainly

History repeats: The peril in Politics of Tradition

P enlight

Nash B. Maulana nash.penlight@gmail.com

against the will of the incumbent Sultan. This version was confirmed to me, no less, by the present throne occupant Sultan Salem Abdulaziz Guiwan Mastura Kudarat V—and separately by his Brother Prince Mudah Makuta Datu Mama Mastura. They are grandsons of 20th Century Sultan Hijaban Mastura, father of their father Sultan Abdulaziz Guiwan Mastura Kudarat IV.

In the version of the Esmael family, Sultan Datu Mohammad Esmael “Tato” had been the Sultan of Maguindanao for 57 years. Bai Annabelle Valencia Sultan Esmael said her family’s patriarch was never replaced until he died in 1991. A Malacanang employee recalled that President Marcos (Sr.) “was looking for ‘the old Sultan of Maguindanao’ during the 1981 meeting.”

When Sultan Esmael learned of the of the Presidential hosting of traditional Moro leaders and Sultan Pangadapun Benito was recognized as the Sultan of Maguindanao, Sultan Esmael went to Malacanang with his entourage to a tardy audience with President Ferdinand E. Marcos. at Malacanang Palace in 1982.

Information from the family of Engineer Macapado Benito discloses that his enthronement has been slated for February 19 in Cotabato City. (BUT THIS HAS BEEN CALLED OFF as of today and INSTEAD THE BENITOS will HOST a grand MEETING among their KINDRED in Calanogas, LDS on March 3, 2023, according to an FB post by Engineer Benito’s daughter). Another member of the family said she is not much familiar about genealogical and cultural backgrounds that keep the mood of a royal succession on track as far as the Benito’s were concerned.

COTABATO CITY / ARMM CORRESPONDENTS

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

of true peace and harmonious coexistence continue to abound as shown by day-to-day global news on crimes, lawlessness, armed conflict and imminent war in most countries. And peacemakers along with security experts, some already gone to the great beyond in frustration to completely resolve peaceful coexistence among nations and kingdoms.

Whatever happens, let’s hold-on to God’s peace that surpasses understanding devoid of pride, envy and greed. For heavenly peace is joy and contentment with the LORD whatever crisis humanity is confronted with.

Head of state must be steadfast to help one another by spreading love and humanitarian assistance to those in need and victims of man-made and natural disasters. And recent moves of the Marcos administration to assist Turkey and Syria from the deadly quake was on the right direction after authorities accounted more than 35K killed as of Feb 15.

Let’s hope and pray that the PH government’s support to Ukraine made public this week would not be misconstrued by Russia whose armed forces are still at loggerheads with the badly-battered Ukraine.

Knowing the diplomatic ties forged by former President Duterte with President Putin and a separate one with Chinese President Xi Jinping made them allies. But military and foreign affairs officials this week complained of a Chinese warship encroaching in PH waters without permission using laser devices as provocative. This prompted the US Pentagon to update government of any new development on provocation. The US, a longtime ally of the PH, has just strengthened its diplomatic ties by establishing new military bases in the country following abolition of the old US-ran Clark and Subic bases.

In the midst of efforts for peace to rein, we were saddened by the passing away of Sultan sa Barongis Election Officer Habib Macabangen when ambushed by still unknown assailants in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat on Feb.13. But earlier incident was

more devastating when 7 cops died and 20 others hospitalized in a three-vehicle smash-up in Misamis Oriental. It was amazingly unusual to learn all the victims carry the rank of police sergeants. If things happen for divine reasonWhy?

BIBLICAL PERSEVERANCE AND ENDURANCE

While we rejoice in hope for the glory of God, we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance, character and hope of God’s love on us (Romans 5:2-4). God said because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on earth (Revelation 3:10).

In the race of faith, let us lay aside every weight and sinfulness which easily ensnares us, instead let us run with endurance the race that is set before us (Hebrews 12:1). As prophesied, the Messiah will reign and people shall fear Him as long as the sun and moon endure throughout all generations (Psalm 72:5). His name shall endure forever and men shall be blessed in Him and nations shall call Him blessed (Psalm 72:17).

Christ’s disciples said, they labor with their hands and endure just to bring people to God despite being reviled and persecuted (1 Corinthians 4:12). Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:3). Let’s give thanks to the LORD for He is good and His mercy endures forever (Psalm 136:1). Christ reminded followers: You will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved (Matthew 10:22). The LORD also cautioned them: Do not labor for food which perishes but food which endures to everlasting life which the Son of Man will give you because God the Father has set His seal on Him (John 6:27). If anyone’s work on which God has built endures, he will receive a reward (1 Corinthians 3:14). True love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things and endures all things (1 Corinthians13:7). All flesh is like grass and man’s glory is like the flower of the grass. The grass withers and its flower falls-away, but the WORD of the LORD endures forever (1 Peter 1:24-25). MC

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.

Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, which is made up of trillions of cells. Normally, human cells grow and multiply (through a process called cell division) to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old or become damaged, they die, and new cells take their place.

Sometimes this orderly process breaks down, and abnormal or damaged cells grow and multiply when they shouldn’t. These cells may form tumors, which are lumps of tissue. Tumors can be cancerous or not cancerous (benign).

Cancerous tumors spread into, or invade, nearby tissues and can travel to distant places in the body to form new tumors (a process called metastasis). Cancerous tumors may also be called malignant tumors. Many cancers form solid tumors, but cancers of the blood, such as leukemias, generally do not.

Benign tumors do not spread into, or invade, nearby tissues. When removed, benign tumors usually don’t grow back, whereas cancerous tumors sometimes do. Benign tumors can sometimes be quite large, however. Some can cause serious symptoms or be life threatening, such as benign tumors in the brain.

How Does Cancer Develop?

ENLARGE Cancer is caused by certain changes to genes, the basic physical units of inheritance. Genes are arranged in long strands of tightly packed DNA called chromosomes.

Credit: © Terese Winslow

Cancer is a genetic disease—that is, it is caused by changes to genes that control the way our cells function, especially how they grow and divide.

Genetic changes that cause cancer can happen because:

Valentine’ Day. 2023

he s tuff of l ife Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy franco1573victoria@gmail.com

Howdid your Valentine’s Go? Kris Aquino turned 52, while Juan Ponce Enrile , the implementor of MArtial Law celebrated his 99th birthday , the former purchased a brand new house in Texas to be near her doctor-she is recuperating quite well while the latter was honoured with a gathering of Manila’s affluent and political personalities.

In Solar, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, cheerful policemen offer roses and heart shaped red balloon to motorists passing their way. Our own Mayor, Bruce Matabalao hang hundreds of pink and fuschia balloons across the entrance of People’s Palace, the city hall. For this, he earned the flack of netizens , muslims and Christians alike, Facebook was busy on that day.

In that FB post, many said that an Imam advised the muslim community not to celebrate Valentine’s Day .Since 2009, certain practices pertaining to Valentine’s Day, such as giving flowers, cards or other gifts suggestive of Valentine’s Day, are banned in Iran. Indonesia, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the day is banned due to the day’s conflicting views with Islamic culture.

In my opinion, Mayor Bruce is mayor of all constituents of the city, City Hall staff are a happy mix of religious affiliation, hence, he may choose to celebrate with those balloons or ignore the day . Undeniable is the fact that Valentine’s Day came about with the practice of St. Valentine of expressing love messages when he was incarcerated. Love is universal, it exists regardless of Valentine’s day. There is no schedule as to when to express love. If true love is there, neither flowers, balloons, chocolates; nor lovers, children and parents, best friends can prevent the expression of love.

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

Thisis the third article on the topic of promoting and developing business firms, especially the smaller ones.

The first article in the series talked about the internal and external environment of business firms and how these impact their operations as well as the effect of business enterprises on their environment.

In the second piece of this series, the reciprocal relationship of business firms and their host city or municipality was discussed. It was said that through developments or changes in policies and procedures, local governments can positively or negatively impact business enterprises.

Who can help promote and develop smaller enterprises?

Aside from local government units, there are other government agencies that are mandated to promote and develop smaller enterprises. The primary agencies tasked to help smaller industries are the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture (for agri-based enterprises), Department of Agrarian Reform (for beneficiaries of the Agrarian Reform Program), and the Department of Science and Technology. The Land Bank of the Philippines, Small Business Guarantee Finance Corporation (a GOCC under the DTI), and other government finance and lending institutions can provide financial services to the smaller enterprises.

Government do not have a monopoly in promoting smaller enterprises, there are private entities that also help them. Private banks and lending institutions can provide loans to smaller enterprises. Larger chambers of commerce and industry, big corporations, and other private entities also have programs and projects geared towards promoting and developing smaller enterprises.

The Micro, Small, and Medium

• of errors that occur as cells divide. of damage to DNA caused by harmful substances in the environment, such as the chemicals in tobacco smoke and ultraviolet rays from the sun. they were inherited from our parents.

The body normally eliminates cells with damaged DNA before they turn cancerous. But the body’s ability to do so goes down as we age. This is part of the reason why there is a higher risk of cancer later in life.

Each person’s cancer has a unique combination of genetic changes. As the cancer continues to grow, additional changes will occur. Even within the same tumor, different cells may have different genetic changes.

If you would like to reproduce some or all of this content, see Reuse of NCI Information for guidance about copyright and permissions. In the case of permitted digital reproduction, please credit the National Cancer Institute as the source and link to the original NCI product using the original product’s title; e.g., “What Is Cancer? was originally published by the National Cancer Institute.”

Enterprises (MSMEs) segment of the business community is a very diverse group considering their number of employees and capitalization. From the Philippine definition: micro-enterprises are those with capitalization of up to P3.0 million or employees of 9 persons and below; small enterprises have capitalization of above P3.0 million to P15.0 million and employs 10 to 99 persons; and medium enterprises are firms with more capital exceeding P15.0 million to P100 million and employees ranging from 100 to 199.

As of 2010, there were already almost 778,000 business firms in the Philippines with MSMEs dominating at 99.6% while large firms only number a little over 3,000 firms or .4%. Out of the MSMEs, microenterprises represent 91.6% of the total, small enterprises making up 8%, and medium enterprises accounting for the balance of 0.4%. By now, we can safely assume that the number of MSMEs would have reached the million mark.

Given the huge number if MSMEs, government agencies and local government units need to be strategic in helping out the smaller enterprises.

Which of the so many MSMEs should be prioritized for assistance?

The conventional wisdom is to help the smaller firms. However, going by the numbers, the micro-enterprises would be at least 900,000 and government does not have the resources to support such number of firms.

If I were to prioritize which segment of the MSMEs to assist, the following would be in my list:

1. Firms that have a good chance of survival (e.g. with at least P1.0 million in capital);

2. Firms that are engaged in manufacture or processing of products with good market;

3. Firms that belong to a priority sector (e.g. coffee for Region 12 and BARMM);

4. Firms that employ or could employ more workers; and

5. Firms that do not have easy access to funding (this would mean excluding firms with more than P10 million in capital).

Eva Tan

Marilou Biel Lugtu

Christine Chua

In Solon, Sultan Mastura, cheetful policemen handed out heart-shaped balloons to grateful, happy motorists

SULTAN PAWNSHOP

corner Bonifacio and Don Rufino Alonzo Sts., Cotabato City

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

MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

RANEN PAWNSHOP MAIN, BRANCH I, II & III

Don Rufino Alonzo & Don Tomas Martinez Sts, Cot. City

Notice for Auction

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

Patalastas ng Subasta

Lahat ng sangla noong Hulyo 2022 ay ipagbibili ng Subasta sa Marso 1, 2023 sa ganap na ika-8:30 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon. Kung maari ay pumunta bago ang March 1, 2023 para sa pagbayad ng tubo o pagtubos.

MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late CANDAO DILAO KEMPA, who died on December 3, 2017, left a Savings Account with Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) under Account No. 0376 4197 46 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. de Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 104; Page No. 104; Book No. XXIX; Series of 2023.

MC: Feb. 11, 18 & 25, 2023

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

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Meriam D. Sadio has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in the child’s date of birth from May 27, 1964 to May 24, 1964 in the certificate of live birth bearing registry No. 85 of Meriam Demagajes Dueñas duly registered at the Local Civil Registry Office of Upi, Maguindanao and whose parents are Roberto Dequilla Deunas and Aida Soberano Demagajes. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than February 28, 2023.

(Sgd.) JEAN P. BACAS

Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

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

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Justine Ace T. Bedico has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in the child’s sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Justine Ace T. Bedico who was born on May 12, 2000 at Magpet, Cotabato and whose parents are Jonathan Aman Bedico and Jackelyn Adas Tungcaling. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than February 27, 2023.

(Sgd.) CHONA M. PROVIDA, MPA Municipal

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses RESTITUTO TABAUSARIS and PATROCENIA ESPOSO, who died on July 6, 2020 and October 18, 2016, respectively at Pentil, Aleosan, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 766-B, Psd-124716-020827 (AR) situated in Malamote, Midsayap, Cotabato, with an area of 32,298 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale before Notary Public AlbertoT. Eramis as per Doc. No. 111; Page No. 22; Book No. CCLVII; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 11, 18 & 25, 2023

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

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Cherry Siabu-Consomo has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in the child’s sex from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth bearing registry No. 2008-392 of Anieryl Siabu Consomo duly registered at the Local Civil Registry Office of Upi, Maguindanao and whose parents are Reynan Panes Consomo and Cherry Tabanera Siabu. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than February 28, 2023.

(Sgd.) JEAN P. BACAS Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

Republic of the Philippines Aleosan, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Lenie C. Almendral-Calawigan has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Male to Female in the birth certificate of Lenie Calamba Almendral who was born on 12 October 1984 at Katalicanan, Aleosan, Cotabato and whose parents are Federico S. Almendral and Virginia C. Calamba. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than 17 February 2023.

(Sgd.) MARILOU G. NANLABI Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Local sectors bewail ambush of 3 children in Pikit...from P1

community in Pikit, one engaged grains business and the other an owner of a roadside eatery, said while there are apparent indications about the worsening security situation in Pikit, residents cannot complain for fear of reprisals.

“May Allah save all people in Pikit from these security threats,” one the sources said Thursday.

Sinolinding, an eye specialist operating a hospital in Kabacan town in Cotabato, not too distant from Pikit, said the police, the military and local officials in Pikit ought to expand their cooperation in addressing the wanton killings in the area.

Most of the deadly incidents in Pikit happened in barangays grouped as Special Geographic Area of BARMM.

Pikit Mayor Sumulong

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late RUDY I. INOCENCIO, who died intestate on December 12, 2017 at Nituan, Parang, Maguindanao, left an undivided portion of Lot No. 291-0-2, Ped-06035177, covered by TCT No. T-24853, containing an area of 1,567 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement /adjudication of estate before Notary Public Mimbalawag T. Mangutara Jr., CPA as per Doc. No. 89; Page No. 19; Book No. LXIX; Series of 2023.

MC: Feb. 11, 18 & 25, 2023

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with the publication requirements and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Grace Robles Pacquiao has filed with this office a petition for change of month of birth from September 24, 1974 to January 24, 1974 in the certificate of live birth of Grace Samaranos Robles, who was born on September 24, 1974 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Antonio V. Robles and Lydia F. Samaranos. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file/ his/her written opposition with this office of Municipal Civil Registrar, Midsayap, Cotbato.

(Sgd.) NORAH B. CABUGWASON

Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Anababeth C. Austria has filed with this office a petition for correction of the child’s date of birth from December 17, 1964 to March 17, 1964 and change of first name from Babylon to Anababeth in the certificate of live birth of Babylon J. Ceniza who was born on March 17, 1964 at Kidapawan, Cotabato and whose parents are Ricardo Ceniza and Julita Judilla. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office.

(Sgd.) MERCEDES P. TOLENTINO Acting City Registrar MC: Feb. 11 & 18, 2023

Sultan signed on Tuesday afternoon an executive order suspending until Friday the classes in all schools in barangays under his jurisdiction following the fatal ambush about four hours before of a 13-year-old student, Fahad Guimalon, in an attack in Barangay Gli-Gli.

Guimalon and his two companions who were

AFFIDAVIT OF SELF-ADJUDICATION

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MA. SUZETTE N. LAO, who died on December 26, 2022 in Cotabato City, an account with Metrobank under Savings Account No. 074-3-074-90598-7 is subject of affidavit of self-adjudication before Notary Public Atty. Edwin P. Matura as per Doc No. 122; Page No. 25; Book No. II, Series of 2023.

MC: Feb.18, 25 & Mar. 4, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

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

MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

wounded in the attack were on their way home from school when gunmen positioned along the road opened fire, killing him instantly.

A tricycle driver, Jose Neri Gonzales, was shot dead by two men together on a motorcycle last Monday near the town proper of Pikit, just four days after bakery

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late LUCIA TABADA SANCHEZ-ANGELES, who died intestate on May 10, 2011 at San Teodoro, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, left a parcel of land Lot No. 97-1, Psd-115996, covered by TCT No. T-29073, containing an area of 14,899 sq. mts., more or less, located at Tunggol, Pagalungan, Maguindanao is subject of deed of extrajudicial settlement with special power of attorney before Notary Public Atty. Hilarion P. Clapis, Jr., as per Doc. No. 445; Page No. 45; Book No. 29; and Emmy Louise S. Guiritan as per Doc. No. 21; Page No. 05; Book No. V; all Series of 2022.

MC: Feb.18, 25 & Mar. 4, 2023

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

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

MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

CONLUCK PAWNSHOP MAIN CONLUCK DON RUFINO BRANCH CONLUCK PAWNSHOP BRANCH 4 & CONLUCK PAWNSHOP PLAZA

Cotabato City ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sanla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula Enero hanggang Pebrero 2022 Ang Subasta ay sa Pebrero 28, 2023 sa ganap na ika 8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC:Febc 18 & 25, 2022

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 1-28, 2022 at 8:00

A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main 4J Bldg. Corner Jose Lim Sr., and Don Roman Vilo St. Cotabato City. Auction sale will be on February 22, 2023.

Patalastas ng Subasta

Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de OroPawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro

Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV sa Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong Pebrero 1-28, 2022 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 22, 2023.

owner Ansarie Luntayan was killed with a pistol by attackers in nearby Barangay Takepan in the same municipality.

Deadly gunfights between rival clans, some identified with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, also rocked different areas in Pikit in the past 24 months, causing the displacement of innocent villagers.

Brig. Gen, Jamili Macaraeg, director of the Police Regional Office-12 and his counterpart in BARMM, Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, had separately condemned the ambush of the three children.

Even tricycle drivers in Pikit were angered by the incident, something for them a direct insult on their LGU, now subject of rabid criticisms over its seeming lack of resolve to address the security woes besetting the municipality.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late NAPOLEON BATO SALAYSAY, who died on November 23, 2009 at Ampatuan, Maguindanao, a parcel of land Lot 18, Block 4, Psd-123804-000755, situated in Barrio Bagua, Cotabato City, covered by TCT No. T-334416, containing an area of 145 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Antonio F. Diocera as per Doc. No. 161; Page No. 33; Book No. C; Series of 2023. MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 12th Judicial Region BRANCH 13 Cotabato City

SPECIAL PROCEEDING CASE NO. 2022-1575 IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF DESIREE ANDOL MAÑARA UNDER LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY NO. 97-70, DESIREE MAÑARA NERI, Petitioner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, FLORANTE NERI, JESUSIMA M. NERI AND DJENABA MAÑARA NERI, Respondents, x--------------------------------------x ORDER

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

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

GIVEN this 30th of January, 2023 at Cotabato City, Philippines. (Sgd.) ANNABELLE D. P. PIANG Acting Presiding Judge MC: Feb. 4, 11 & 18, 2023

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato City of Kidapawan

Kins: Marine killed in Lanao Sur a good man

The remains of the Marine sergeant killed in an ambush in Lanao del Sur was buried Monday in Isabela City in Basilan, relatives hurt with losing a clan member known to them as a responsible family man.

Sgt. John Milbert Pamaran of the 2nd Marine Battalion and his companions were out for a community outreach mission last February 4 when they were ambushed in Barangay Cabasaran in Marogong, Lanao del Sur by members of the Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group.

The attack left three other Marines, Cpl. Mark Anthony Bañares, Sgt. Jeram Aradji and Sgt. Joan Aniñon, badly wounded.

The family of Pamaran resides in Barangay Tabiawan in Isabela City in Basilan, a component-province of the Bangsamoro region.

The Pamarans belong to the

pioneer, closely-knit PamaranCuevas-Furigay clan in Basilan, its members with different religions spread around the adjoining cities of Isabela and Lamitan in the island province.

“He is known to us, his relatives and friends as a very responsible husband to a wife who is a registered nurse, a good father to his two children who are still elementary pupils,” Pamaran’s cousin, Ronaldo Pamaran, told The Mindanao Cross before he was buried Monday.

Ronaldo said his slain cousin figured in many encounters with rebels in different areas in Mindanao,

Hunt for ambushers of Lanao Sur cops continue

but never bragged about his exploits as a Marine serviceman.

“He was a good man, good father to his children, a boy and a girl,” said a friend, Arnel Rosario.

Pamaran was a son of a retired member of the Navy’s Philippine Marine Corps, according to his companions in the battalion where he belonged.

Isabela City Vice Mayor Kifli Salliman visited Pamaran’s wake and extended cash assistance to his wife.

Pamaran was buried Monday at one spot in a family-owned land in Barangay Tabiawan. JFU

Peddlers in P3.4M worth shabu deal face raps

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao have filed cases against two traffickers arrested Friday last week in a P3.4 million worth shabu sting in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.

Christian Frivaldo, director of the PDEA-BARMM, said Wednesday that they have charged Alimudin Tapempi, 69, and his 37-year-old accomplice, Badrudin Abdulrahman Ebrahim, with violation of the

Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

“They will soon be brought to court for litigation,” Frivaldo said. A third suspect, Abdulpata Mohamad Mamalinta, who ran away when he sensed they were selling P3.4 million worth of shabu to nonuniformed PDEA-BARMM agents, had also been charged in absentia.

Frivaldo said the sting that led to the arrest of Tapempi and Ebrahim was assisted by different units of the

Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

The duo is now clamped down in a detention facility of PDEA-BARMM.

Frivaldo said part of the credit for the successful entrapment of Tapempi and Ebrahim goes to relatives and friends who provided the PDEA-BARMM with information pertaining to their large-scale trafficking of shabu in Cotabato City and nearby towns in Maguindanao del Norte. JFU

Smuggled cigars spread via island provinces

TRADERS in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur says the Indonesianmade cigarettes being peddled in towns in both provinces comes in via Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and the Zamboanga peninsula.

“That is clear. These are being delivered in coastal areas by men from either Tawi-Tawi and Sulu, some from Zamboanga City and they are very elusive. Very hard for them to get cornered by authorities,” Fatima Ramla, a 45-year-old Maranao businesswoman, said Tuesday.

Informed about it, Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, told The Mindanao Cross via text message that they have long placed under surveillance certain groups in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and police forces in both island provinces have seized

no less than P20 million worth of imported cigarettes in the past six months.

“We have also intensified our anti-smuggling operations in coastal areas in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur,” Guyguyon said.

The police seized P1.6 million worth of cigarettes from Indonesia found abandoned in a seaside barangay in Malabang, Lanao del Sur Friday last week.

Guyguyong said Tausugspeaking boatmen brought the 116 boxes of imported cigarettes to the coastal Barangay Tambara in Malabang, but hurriedly sailed away when they sensed that villagers have reported their presence to the local police.

“Obviously, the smuggled cigarettes were consigned to a local trader,” Guyguyon said.

Personnel of the Malabang Municipal Police Station and PRO-BAR’s mobile force units and members of the Navy’s 2nd Marine Battalion immediately confiscated the P1.6 million worth cigarettes, to be turned over to the Bureau of Customs.

“It was for the vigilance of the residents of Barangay Tambara that the attempt to smuggle imported cigarettes into Malabang municipality was foiled,” Guyguyon said.

Units of the Lanao del Sur Police Office and the Marine companies securing the adjoining seaside Malabang, Picong and Kapatagan towns have confiscated in the past 12 months some P20 million worth of cigarettes from Indonesia, brought in via the island provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. JFU

THE Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the 2nd Marine Battalion are together in the search for the ambushers who killed a policeman and wounded another in Picong, Lanao del Sur last week.

The attack resulted in the death of Sgt. Albert Magdayao and left his companion, Cpl. Sonny Marohom, wounded.

Brig. Gen. Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region and Lanao del Sur’s police director, Col. Robert Daculan, awarded the slain Magdayao with a posthumous citation for his gallantry as a policeman.

The two senior police officials also pinned a Medalya ng Sugatang Bayani to Marohom right in a hospital in Marawi City where he is confined for treatment of gunshot wounds.

The Lanao der Provincial Police and the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region said in separate statements this week that three of the ambushers, Aminola Acub Alilang and the brothers Lani and Fahad Alilang, are long wanted for

carjacking, drug trafficking and cattle theft.

Magdayao and Marohom, of the 2nd Lanao del Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company, were in a team of combined members of their company and personnel of the Picong Municipal Police Station that first impounded a stolen vehicle in Barangay Pindulonan and got ambushed while on their way to the town proper of Picong from an anticarnapping operation.

The ambushers, positioned at one side of a road in Barangay Pindulonan, immediately scampered away when companions of Magdayao and Marohom returned fire.

The Alilangs were implicated in a number of carnappings in recent months in Lanao del Sur, a component-province of the Bangsamoro region, and in nearby towns in Zamboanga del Sur in Region 9.

Guyguyon said the Picong municipal police force, units of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office and the 2nd Marine Battalion are cooperating in locating the gunmen responsible for the ambush that resulted in the death of Magdayao. JFU

No leads yet on Maguindanao del Norte ambush

PROBERS are still trying to uncover the mastermind of the fatal ambush on Sunday, February 12, of a Moro father in an attack that left his wife and adolescent son wounded.

Major Regie Abellera, municipal police chief of Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte, said this week they have enlisted the help of barangay officials and relatives of the slain Haron Maulana in their search for a solution to his murder last week by gunmen.

“We our doing our best to solve that incident,” Abellera said.

Maulana, was driving a Toyota Tamaraw FX, en route to Barangay Awang from the town proper of Datu Odin Sinsuat together with spouse, Joy, and their son, Jerone, when gunmen on separate vehicles trailing

behind shot them with assault rifles as they got close.

Abellera said responding probers have found out that the armed men, on board a black Toyota Innova, were noticed following the vehicle of the victims from barangays before Taviran area where they were attacked.

Maulana died on the spot from bullet wounds in the head.

Responding policemen and barangay officials immediately rushed to a hospital the wounded wife and son of Maulana.

Abellera said investigators are still trying to identify the persons behind the brutal killing of Maulana.

“That is something we are focusing our attention on very seriously,” Abellera said Wednesday. JFU

SOLITARY “DUGONG”. A drone filmed a solitary sea cow, locally known as “Dugong,” in Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS), playfully swimming in the bay. Photo courtesy of DENR Soccsksargen

CITED FOR GOOD WORK. Officials of the Bangsamoro regional police awarded this week with a Medalya ng Sugatang Bayani Cpl. Sonny Marohom, who was wounded in an ambush by vehicle thieves last week in Picong, Lanao del Sur. Photo courtesy of Police Regional Office-BAR