Issuu

CHURCH / P6

BARMM brings governance Bishop calls for prayer, fasting against mining in South Cotabato closer to people

P10

Army: Suspect in bus bombings slain, pal nabbed

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

FACE OFF. Pro and anti-mining advocates gather in front of the South Cotabato provincial capitol in Koronadal City to air their stance on the issue of Tampakan mining. Photo coutesy of Nanardz Navarro

CARITAS OPPOSES VILLAGE, SK POLLS POSTPONEMENT

THE social action arm of the Catholic Church is strongly opposing the proposed postponement of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections set in December this year. According to Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, national director of Caritas Philippines, the vilklage polls havbe been suspendes twice since 2016. “Pushing back the barangay and SK elections for the third time since 2016 reflects how our national political leaders undermine the importance of barangay level politics in the exercise of our democratic rights,” Bishop Bagaforo of Kidapawan diocese said. The prelate of Kidapawan added that “it is not right for the government to suppress electoral processes, especially that the barangay and Sangguniang

Kabataan elections are seen as the most accessible and organic form of citizen’s engagement in public service and governance.” In 2020, the barangay and SK elections were postponed to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The same reason is being cited in the postponement bills, referring to the P8 billion pesos election budget being eyed to be utilized for the ongoing pandemic response, as previously stated by House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez. “Different government agencies still allocated funds

PAL flights to boost BARMM tourism, economy

for the ongoing COVID-19 response. And we know how even the Department of Health was not able to fully expend its budget last year,” explained by Fr. Tony Labiao, Caritas Philippines executive secretary. “Thus, like in any other organization, our government needs to step up its game to ensure good planning and better execution, and not to use this as a lame excuse to postpone the December elections,” Fr. Labiao added. Last year, a bill was filed in the House of Rerpesentatatives seeking to postpone Barangay

Bruce to appoint sectoral deputy mayors

By Edwin O. Fernandez THE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT) in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) today Director General Rossalaini Alontowelcomed the Philippine Air Lines (PAL) Sinarimbo said Monday. announcement of its first ever direct Alonto-Sinarimbo said at 9:30 a.m. flights within BARMM seen to boost it will return to Cotabato airport from tourism, moral governance and other Sanga-Sanga airport in Bongao, Tawirelated activities to attain economic Tawi. growth. In a statement, the country’s flag The historic flight will be taking place carrier said its Airbus 320 aircraft on June 9 at 7:30 a.m. at Cotabato Airport would fly every Mondays and Thursdays, in Barangay Awang, DAtu Odin Sinsuat, carrying passengers and offering Maguindanao, BARMM Ministry of business class and economy

PRESUMPTIVE City Mayor Mohammad Bruce Matabalao today said he will name four deputy mayors once he assumed as the city chief executive on July 1. “These deputy mayors will take charge of the issues of four major sectoral groups of Muslims, Christians, Chinese and Indigenous

By Ferdinandh Cabrera Peoples,” Matabalao of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), said in a phone interview. “It was my election promise that I will be serving all Cotabatenios,” he said, reiterated his campaign slogan “Bruce Matabalao para sa lahat (Bruce for all).” The four sectoral

deputy mayors, he said, will also form part of the city Council of Leaders who will serve as advisers how to effectively and efficiently manage Cotabato City governance. Matabalao refused to reveal the names of incoming deputy mayors “but I already have their names.”

Mindanao execs want peace among rival politicians OFFICIALS urged the political camps in their provinces to end their deep-seated rivalries and regroup to sustain the gains of Malacañang’s Mindanao peace process. “The elections are over. It is time for us to cooperate now on programs that can bring us peace and sustainable development,” Basilan Gov. Jim Salliman, just reelected to a third term, said. He told reporters here via online Messenger that his administration

By John Felix Unson is reassuring the Bangsamoro government of its commitment to its peace initiatives in Basilan. There are forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Basilan. The MILF’s central committee chairman, Ahod Ebrahim, is minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Gerry Salapuddin, administrator of the Southern Philippines Development Authority, said he is convinced

that the new president, Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., will support the Mindanao peace process that gained momentum in the past five years. Salapuddin, a Yakan, campaigned extensively for Marcos in Basilan prior to the May 9 actual electoral exercise. “I strongly believe President Marcos will nurture the gains of the national government’s peace process with Moro communities that took off with great momentum during

NOT TO BE OUTDONE. Applicants for Civil Service eligibility exams gather in front of the BARMM government center main gate on June 1 hoping to avail of limited slots only to be told the filing, scheduled on June 2, was postponed to later date. Photo courtesy of CJ Buenbrazo Alocilja

June 4, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

BARMM brings governance closer to people

THE Bangsamoro Region earmarks on improving basic local governance in more physical and institutional terms to bring the government closer to the people.

Minister Naguib Sinarimbo On May 20, the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) opened newly-built barangay hall buildings in the villages of Lower Bager and Patot, Pigcawayan Cluster, Special

Geographic Area (SGA). The Office of Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Al-Hajj Murad Ibrahim has appropriated funds for the two-storey buildings worth P3.5 million each through the MILG of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) MILG Minister Naguib Sinarimbo said BARMM has inaugurated a number of its distinctly designed two-storey barangay halls, and also groundbroke for more construction of such buildings in the interior adjacent villages of Cotabato Province’s 63-barangay SGA under BARMM. Sinarimbo said apart from the barangay hall buildings to physically enhance governance from the village level, the

MILG-BARMM also build capacities for local officials and appointive staff on administrative governance and operations. Officials of the BARMM MILG’s Project Management Division said similar halls are currently being built in more barangays of the SGABARMM’s Pikit, Pigcawayan and Carmen Clusters in North Cotabato. Sinarimbo congratulated the local officials for ensuring that all government projects in their political jurisdiction are well implemented. "Isa po kayo sa mga baranggay na maagang nakatapos ng kanilang proyekto," Sinarimbo said. Sinarimbo underscored

PH risks losing biodiversity resources

THE Philippines risks losing significant arrays of its biodiversity resources, unless better conservation efforts are in place to address threats from growing population, increasing pollution, and the impacts of climate change. This surfaced in assessments of experts disclosed at an eight-day biodiversity conservation training held by the U.S. Peace Corps to help address biodiversity threats in Minalungao National Park in Nueva Ecija, and in Panaon Island in Southern Leyte. The Philippines has one of the word’s broadest range of biodiversity, according to experts who also shared with the trainees the utilization of state-of-the-art biodiversity assessment in terrestrial, marine, and inland aquatic environments and GIS mapping. In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said the training was held in Laguna from May 11 to 19. It brought together nearly 50 participants

from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Southern Leyte State University, Nueva Ecija’s Protected Area Management Board, and Panaon Island local government. The statement said the training included specimen sampling and data collection at Taal Lake, Mt. Makiling, and Calatagan, and it also featured lectures from experts on state-of-the-art biodiversity assessment in terrestrial, marine, and inland aquatic environments and GIS mapping. “The aim of this critical workshop is to support academe and government partners in working together to reduce threats to biodiversity in Minalungao National Park and Panaon Island,” said U.S. Peace Corps Country Director Jenner Edelman. Through this training, participants have developed added skills on the conduct of biodiversity conservation research and development and were able to craft

management plans to address biodiversity threats. Funded by the United States Agency for International Development, the training was conducted by the University of the Philippines-Los Baños’ School of Environmental Science and Management, which is recognized by the Commission on Higher Education as a Center of Excellence on Environmental Science. The U.S. Peace Corps is the U.S. government’s premier volunteer service organization. Over 9,300 American volunteers have served alongside host communities across the Philippines since it was founded in 1961. In the absence of American volunteers due to the pandemic, the U.S Peace Corps is collaborating with host country partners to meet the Philippines’ most pressing development priorities, such as biodiversity conservation, through initiatives such as this workshop, the statement said. Nash B. Maulana

12 Dulangan-Manobo NPAs yield to 6th ID

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — Twelve more New People’s Army guerillas, three of them Dulangan-Manobo datus, bolted from the group Sunday, May 29. The 12 NPAs operated in hinterlands in the adjoining Lebak, Kalamansig and Palimbang towns in Sultan Kudarat, bastions of the Teduray and DulanganManabo indigenous communities. Datu Gawa, Datu Ume Digan, Sultan Tirso Gantangan and companions took turns

telling officials of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, during a dialogue here Sunday, that NPAs from outside misled them into joining the group with promises of protection from logging firms and agricultural companies intruding into their ancestral domains. “We did not get any protection from the NPA at all. We were merely used for its advantage,” Digan told 6th ID acting commander Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat. “We have realized that there is no way that

the NPA can defeat the government in its senseless communist insurgency,” Datu Gawa said. Gubat said the 12 NPAs yielded through the backchannel intercession of Col. Michael Santos, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade and officials of the 37th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. John Paul Baldomar. Gubat said they shall be reintegrated into mainstream society with the help of local government units. John

Felix Unson

Mindanao execs want peace among rival...from P1 the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte,” Salapuddin said. He said he supports the appeal of their governor, the now third-termer Salliman, for all political quarters in Basilan to “bury their rivalries," and thrive in peace again. South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo, Jr., reelected to a second term, said Saturday he has extended his hand, as “gesture of reconciliation” to his defeated challenger, South Cotabato Rep. Ferdinand Hernandez. “Our rivalry was but political and, for me, it ended after my proclamation as winner in the May 9 gubernatorial race in South Cotabato,” Tamayo said. Tamayo said while South Cotabato is

not part of BARMM, he will support its peace initiatives as courtesy to thousands of Muslim residents in his province. “My administration has been focusing big attention to my Muslim constituents, Tamayo said. It was only during the time of Tamayo when South Cotabato, where Christians and non-Moro indigenous people comprises a majority, started observing Muslim religious holidays to promote interfaith solidarity among constituents. Like Salapuddin of Basilan, Tamayo is also a staunch political ally of incoming President Marcos, who was voted for overwhelmingly by South Cotabato residents during the May 9 polls.

that under the leadership of Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, MILG was instructed to check the needs of all localities and ensure that there will be intervention from the regional government. Meanwhile, Patot Barangay Captain Abdullah Alamada expressed his gratitude to the Bangsamoro Government for the new project. "Nagpapasalamat po kami dahil nabigyan kami ng BARMM ng baranggay hall dahil lahat ng tao ay dito nagkakaintindihan,” he said, noting the importance of a barangay hall as a venue in addressing the problems and concerns of the constituents. He also disclosed that their barangay hall was previously

destroyed due to local conflict in the area. "Dati-rati po, palipat lipat yung barangay hall namin dahil sa kaguluhan tulad ng rido," Alamada explained. The village leader said he hoped that the new barangay hall building will ensure the smooth delivery of services to their constituents and added that the hall is considered as an iconic building in the locality. Barangay Patot—a home for more than 3,000 people, mostly Iranun— is one of the 63 barangays in North Cotabato Province that officially became part of BARMM after they voted affirmatively in the February 2019 plebiscite on the Bangsamoro Organic Law.

Nash B. Maulana

NoCot town wife-husband mayors tandem takes oath

A couple in Kabacan, Cotabato elected as mayor and vice mayor, respectively, today vowed to push aggressively for more development programs that will help improve the lives of their constituents. A first in North Cotabato and Soccsksargen region, the wife-husband tandem that won during the recent local polls here took oath Wednesday before Municipal Trial Court Judge Eugene Tancinco. Councilor Evangeline Pascua-Guzman was elected as mayor of Kabacan while her husband, incumbent Mayor Herlo Guzman Jr, was elected as vice mayor. Councilor Pascua-Guzman sits as member of the municipal council as ex-officio member being president of Liga ng mga Barangay. “For continuity, I will be pushing for all the development programs that the current administration had started,” Mayor electPascua-Guzman said.

“My leadership for every Kabakeño will be accompanied by motherly love for her children,” she said, adding that she will serve and love the people of Kabacan the way she loved and served her children. Outgoing Mayor Guzman told reporters that the political dynasty issue hurled against the will not affect their governance since they have the mandate of the electorate. Based on Comelec official results, Pascua-Guzman had 18,338 votes, more than 5,000 votes over her rival while her husband, Mayor Guzman Jr, got 25,636 votes, more than 15,000 votes over his rival candidate. Barangay Poblacion Councilor Edna Macaya will replace Pascua Guzman as village chair of Barangay Poblacion, Kabacan while Barangay Katidtuan chairperson Bienvenido Ticbe took her post as president of Liga ng mga Barangay and a seat in the Sangguniang Bayan. Edwin O. Fernandez

WIFE-HUSBAND TEAM. Mayor-elect Evangeline Pascua-Guzman (center) of Kabacan, Cotabato and husband, outgoing town mayor Herlo Guzman Jr, elected as vice mayor, took their oath of office before Municipal Trial Court Judge Eugene Tancinco. Photo courtesy of LGU Kabacan

P10-M worth shabu seized in Jolo

STATE agents seized from two peddlers P10 million worth of shabu in an entrapment operation Tuesday in Jolo, the capital town of Sulu. Suspects Al-Amin Ismael Sahipa, 39, and his 41-year-old accomplice, Alnasir Kasim Ismun, are now detained, to be prosecuted for violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002. In a statement Thursday, the Philippine Drug Enforcement AgencyBangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said Sahipa and Ismun were immediately arrested after selling 1.5 kilo of shabu to non-uniformed agents

in a tradeoff in Barangay Walled City in Jolo. The PDEA-BARMM, the provincial police force and military units under the Western Mindanao Command together confiscated more than P30 million worth of shabu in one sting after another in different towns in Sulu in the past 24 months. The PDEA-BARMM said Tuesday’s anti-narcotics operation that led to the arrest of Sahipa and Ismun was assisted by personnel of the Sulu Provincial Police Office and the military-led anticrime Joint Task Force Sulu. John Felix

Unson

PAL flights to boost BARMM tourism,...from P1

seating. Among 17 regions in the country, BARMM has recorded the second fastest growth with its economy expanding by 7.5 percent, according to Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). With the new air travel opportunities, traveling to Tawi-Tawi from Cotabato City, the regional seat of BARMM government, will be reduced tremendously in terms of fare and travel

time. Air travel to Tawi-Tawi from Cotabato City would mean passengers have to take the Cotabato-Manila flight and connecting flight from Manila to Zamboanga to Tawi-Tawi. Sea travel via sea vessel will take 46 to 50 hours from Zamboanga City. From Cotabato City, it will take another 20 hours by land via Pagadian City to Zamboanga City.

“It will improve my sea food business,” said a local trader here who are into buying and selling of dried fish. “This is my dream and will soon happen,” she said. BARMM leaders see the new fastest travel within the region as engine of economic development for the Bangsamoro region because it create more jobs and better government services

THE MINDANAO CROSS

June 4, 2022

CY 2022 Premium Contribution Schedule for All Direct Contributors As prescribed in Section 10 of Republic Act No. 11223 or the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act, and in accordance with PhilHealth Circular No. 2020-0005 onl the "Premium Contribution Schedule in the National Health Insurance Program (Revision 1)," all Direct Contributors are hereby advised that the premium rate for CY 2022 is 4.0%, with an income floor of P10,000.00 and income ceiling of P80,000.00 effective January 2022. Please see details below:

Year 2022

Monthly Basic Salary

P10,000.00 and below P10,0000.01 to P79,999 P80,000.00 and above

Premium Rate 4.0%

Monthly Premium P400.00 P400.00 to P3,200.00 P3,200.00

The adjusted premium rate shall take effect in the Electronic Premium Remittance System (EPRS) and the PhilHealth Member Portal starting the applicable month of June 2022. Members and employers who have already paid their contributions at 3% are advised to generate the corresponding Statement of Premium Account for the paid periods so they can settle the 19% differential payments/remittances until December 31, 2022. Further inquiries may be referred to the PhilHealth Action Center at Callback Channel: 0917-898-7442 (PHIC) or through email at actioncenter@ philhealth. gov.ph. Please visit https://www.philhealth.gov.ph for additional information.

(Sgd.) ATTY. DANTE A. GIERRAN, CPA President and Chief Executive Officer

Minister Yacob attends AGRICITIES meeting in Turkey MINISTER of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform Mohammad S. Yacob, Ph.D., attended the Second Ordinary General Assembly Meeting of the International Agricultural Cities Union (AGRICITIES) held in Konya Metropolitan Municipality in Turkey. Held on May 25-27, 2022, the activity aims to develop cooperation and project opportunities between municipalities in the agricultural and sustainable development field. “Congratulations on this initiative of bringing the different countries/cities to interact with each other and share experience and expertise in agriculture,” Minister Yacob said, speaking in behalf of BARMM. “Thank you for inviting the MAFAR-BARMM; this is not only an opportunity but an achievement for

us; it is indeed our pleasure to be a participant and become a member of the noble organization,” Minister Yacob added. He said the decision to establish the AGRICITIES is highly commendable as this will empower other members to where techniques and expertise are needed. It makes sense to pool resources and initiatives in areas of common interest to increase the impact of agriculture, promote breakthroughs and boost our ability to compete in world markets. The AGRICITIES identified the public institutions and municipalities from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, Philippines, especially MAFAR, to be a member of the union. AGRICITIES participants visited the Tumosan

1975, Turko Tractor Factory, Chocolate Factory, Turko Soiless Planting, Kalkan Meyve Processing Company for dry fruits. During the Global Agriculture Forum, Minister Yacob and different heads discussed their work towards climate change, which is an important title of Konya Model Municipality, and agricultural supports. Minister Yacob said: “We have taken measures against global climate change in three topics: supporting production, supporting livestock, and establishing a product distribution system in the region." In addition, Director General for Agriculture Daud Lagasi, Ph.D., and Director-General for Agrarian Reform Taugan Kikay, Ph.D., were present during the forum.

THE MINDANAO CROSS

June 4, 2022

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AS AN AIR PASSENGER The Ministry of Transportation and Communications-BARMM, through the Civil Aeronautics Board of the Bangsamoro (CABB-BARMM), presents this summary of the Major Air Passenger Bill of Rights for your guidance and information. Can I do anything if the airline refuses to provide me with any amenity or service I am entitled to? YES! Passengers may forward their complaints to or ask for assistance from the Civil Aeronautics Board of the Bangsamoro personnel at certain airports in BARMM. Passengers may also send an email to cab.motc@bangsamoro.gov.ph or visit its website cabb.bangsamoro.gov.ph. CABB is one of the seven sectors of the MOTC-BARMM mandated to regulate the economic aspect of air transportation in BARMM. Also, it advocates passenger’s rights for convenient, reliable, and safe air travel.

June 4, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

June 4, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Bishop calls for prayer, fasting against mining in South Cotabato

A Catholic bishop in southern Philippines appealed to his flock to turn to prayer and fasting after South Cotabato province opened its doors to big-scale mining projects.

Bishop Cerilo Casicas of the Diocese of Marbel in South Cotabato province. Photo courtesy of Christ the King Cathedral

Bishop Cerilo Casicas of Marbel on May 27 launched a nine-day novena, asking the faithful “to storm heavens with our prayers, begging God to intervene and pour wisdom to the decision makers”. He invited the faithful to observe any form of fasting “as a way of expressing our contrition for the sins we have committed against the environment”. The prelate made the call after local legislators recently overturned a 12-year-old ban on openpit mining in the province. The move would pave the way for large-

scale mining operations, including the Sagittarius Mines Inc.’s $5.9 billion

Tampakan gold-copper project. Roy Lagarde/

CBCP News

Archbishop cites urgent need to protect youth from ‘fake news’

THE Catholic Church must exert more effort to protect young people from the ‘toxic environment’ of online disinformation, a Catholic archbishop said Tuesday. Speaking during Mass at the Naga Cathedral, Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona of Caceres lamented that most victims of “fake news” are the youth. “Our Church must protect and guide our young people especially in this toxic environment of fake news,” Tirona said in his homily. The former head of the bishops’ Commission

on Youth also condemned what he claimed “the use of young people as trolls and agents of lies”. The archbishop then called on young Filipinos to be vigilant on social media and be careful with fake news. “They should know how to discern between right and wrong,” said Tirona, who also chaired the Youth Desk of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC). “So it’s important for the church to focus its attention on the youth.” During the Mass, he also installed Fr. Daniel

Vegas as the new director of the Caceres Youth Commission. The archbishop said he talked about some social issues affecting the youth to dispel the idea that youth ministry is just about festive activities. According to him, youth ministry is more than activity. “It is developing the youth’s relationship with God,” he added. “We need to develop among the youth the sense of the Church… for them to love and protect the Church,” he said. Yara De

Guzman/CBCP News

Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona of Caceres.

Photo courtesy of Caceres Archdiocese

Caritas Philippines Congratulates President Bongbong Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte "WE officially congratulate Bongbong Marcos Jr. as the next president of the Republic of the Philippines. We will, as always, exercise principled cooperation with the government. As such, we will support all his administration's programs that will:

1. Respect the rights and dignity of the Filipino people 2. Honor the rule of law and history 3. Make government more accountable to its people With our post-election accountability program, we will hold him and all elected officials liable of all

he day of Pentecost renewed with the Catholic coincided with the charismatic movement. Jewish Harvest Admittedly, our popular Festival. For this reason devotions were focused on there were many people the saints and the Blessed in Jerusalem. They were Mother. More recently, eflections from different tribes and the devotion to the Holy nationalities (Acts 2:1-11). Spirit is going strong with Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC The disciples who received the Catholic Charismatic tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com the Holy Spirit started Renewal. preaching to the crowd. Although the listeners were My first experience of the charismatic movement was varied, they heard the proclamation in their different with a group of non-Catholics. I was then a seminarian languages. The preachers received the gift of tongues and I was amazed by what happened during the prayer and the listeners also received the gift of session: people were weeping, shouting, understanding . This miracle came about prophesying, and speaking in tongues. by the power of the Holy Spirit. From Then came the laying of hands for healing this extraordinary event in Jerusalem, and the call to accept Jesus. I was kind the story of Jesus would spread and be of put off by my first experience. It was proclaimed in different tongues all over as a young priest that I again joined a the world. charismatic prayer session, this time Jesus gave the disciples His gift of with the Catholic renewal movement. the Holy Spirit. As the gospel narrates, It was more sedate but all the elements after the resurrection Jesus appeared to were there: bible sharing, speaking in the disciples, breathed on them and said, tongues, prophesying, healing, and call “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:19to conversion. Once I was called to assist 23). This was to take away their fear in the healing by laying of hands for the and disunity. After the crucifixion, the participants and I was surprised that disciples were discouraged, and the group was breaking people were falling, “slain in the spirit”. I thought that apart. Jesus knew what grace they needed at that others could do it but not I. Of course it was the Spirit moment. The Spirit brings courage and unity. According that did it, not I. My own devotion to the Holy Spirit to Paul in the second reading, “All of us, whether Jews or grew from the routine prayer to the Holy Spirit before Greeks, slaves or free, have been baptized in one spirit, meetings and assemblies to a personal petition for to form one body, and all of us have been given to drink assistance when making important decisions and for from the one Spirit” (1 Cor. 12-13). guidance. There are many symbols of the Holy Spirit: like fire The Spirit of the Lord blows where he wills. Like the Spirit spreads and cleanses, like water the Spirit the air that we breathe, the Spirit surrounds us. On our refreshes and nourishes, like air the Spirit gives life, and part we have to breathe in this “ruach” (Hebrew for air). the Spirit brings peace as symbolized by the dove. Even Like a sailboat that sails in the ocean, the sails have to when Jesus is no longer present physically He gives us be spread to catch the wind and move the boat. It is up His Spirit as our Helper and Advocate. In the Catholic to us to raise the sails and catch the wind that moves us tradition the devotion to the Holy Spirit has been in proclaiming the story of Jesus. MC

Breathe of the Spirit R

“The preachers received the gift of tongues and the listeners also received the gift of understanding”

their election promises. In all that is to come, we pray that his administration will be guided by justice, inspired by the people who elected him, and fueled by true patriotism." Caritas Philippines

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

Pentecost Sunday Readings:

Acts 2.1-11; 1 Corinthians 12.3b-7, 12-13 or Romans 8.8-17 John 20.19-23 or John 14.15-16, 23b-26 oday is Pentecost Sunday. In today’s gospel, Jesus sends his Holy Spirit to his disciples. Jesus says, “Peace be with you.” In today’s world, peace is something that is becoming rare. People are easily distracted with the world’s troubles. That is why people can easily turn on the television, open their social media accounts, chat with a friend, or simply encounter someone to look for inspiration and somehow they can have peace of mind. However, the peace that we experience when we are accompanied by the Holy Spirit is different. When we invite the Holy Spirit to come into our lives, we can accomplish things with confidence and joy. The peace that we all need to experience is that peace that the Holy Spirit brings us. It is the presence of God working in our lives. It is not something that we can get outside of ourselves but often comes from the inner part of our humanity where God dwells. This Sunday, may the Holy Spirit envelop our minds and hearts so that whatever circumstances we experience, eventually, everything will all turn into a blessing. Prayer: Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with your peace. Amen.

THE MINDANAO CROSS

June 4, 2022 EDITORIAL

Post election comments

ow that the hullabaloo of the past election is dying down, the time to look at the future is on hand. It is not enough to win in the election, the more important post election issues should now be put in place. For the next 6 years, a new president will seat in Malacanang to run the country, and the newly elected senators on the upper chamber and representatives in the lower chamber will start reviewing the legislative system. This system is echoed at the provincial and the local (municipal) levels. It is not enough for the winners to bask in their laurels, they run for the election with the sole purpose of serving the people. The people are therefore waiting how they will perform now that they were chosen as the best (?) among their peers. It is therefore important that the election platforms presented during the campaign period be now translated into strategies that will be the basis for the programs and projects that will be implemented by the winners and their chosen group. It would be an advantage, if the new dispensation also look at the plans of the past administration, and include these in their new plans. Some commendable activities have not been implemented before the election due to the lack of time and some of the election promises by the previous group still are relevant at present. It would be worthwhile to remind the winners that there are important documents that may contribute to the development of their plans for action. The past administrations have firmed up Comprehensive Local Development Plans which may include a Land Use Plan, Investment Plans, and many other plans. These were formulated with the assistance of Foreign Aid groups like the US Aid, LGSP (Canadian Aid), JICA (Japan Cooperative Assistance), Australian Aid, European Union, and other foreign foundations. It would please Donor Agencies to know that the assistance they provided is being used extensively. Another concern during the post election period is the appointment of personnel who will assist the local executive implement his services. We are fully aware that those who helped during the election are expecting to get jobs, especially the relatives. However, it is a difficult situation for everyone when the mayor appoints a relative to a lowly job as janitor or messenger. I witnessed in one of my visits to a municipal hall why the place is so dirty. Don’t you have a janitor, I asked. The personnel around me explained that the one appointed to the position of janitor happens to be a DATU, and they find it inappropriate to call his attention in cleaning the offices. Well, there goes another 3 years of struggle to keep the municipal hall clean. This also happens when the person appointed had no knowledge of the tasks that goes with the position like a clerk who does not know how to handle a computer. After election, let the party lines dissolve into to establish cooperation among those elected. This is true of the enmity that was produced by the elections. What the winners should have in mind constantly is that they were elected to serve the constituents. They should be the ideal ServantLeaders which all of us have been hoping for. MC +

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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.

eeks after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of South Cotabato amended Section 22 of the 2010 Environment Code of the province, lifting the ban on open-pit mining, various groups and individuals continue to express their opposition to the move. Three days after the May 16 decision of the provincial board, protesters gathered at the South Cotabato provincial capitol in Koronadal City demanding to keep the 12-year-old ban on open-pit mining in the province. On Wednesday, June 1, the first day of the yearly month-long commemoration of Environment Month in the Philippines as mandated by Proclamation No. 237 signed in 1988 by then President Corazon Aquino, they were back in front of the south Cotabato provincial capitol, standing face to face with supporters of the lifting of the ban and the operation of the Sagittarius Mines Inc. open-pit copper and gold mining operation in Tampakan, which covers at least 23,000 hectares across the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and Davao del Sur. Joining the call of the Diocese of Marbel and environment advocates across the province for the restoration of the ban on open-pit mining was the Sustainable Davao Movement which said “Opening the heart of Mindanao, to large-scale mining operations in South Cotabato including the highly controversial Tampakan Mining Project of the Sagittarius Mines Incorporated (SMI) exposes the river system networks and watersheds (on which irrigation, agriculture and the indigenous and local community’s water supply rely), to clear and present danger.” It added: “Mindanao is our Common Home and shared responsibility. We belong to only one Mindanao. As we grow sustainable cities like Davao, we need Mindanao’s environment and peoples to be spared from further destruction and harm.” Also joining the call for a veto of the South Cotabato provincial board’s move was the Sangguniang Panlungsod of neighboring General Santos City. In a resolution it passed the week following the move of the South Cotabato SP, the city council said “While the mining industry is vital to the economy, the economic benefits of open-pit mining cannot outweigh its long-term degrading impact on the environment. When the gains and risks are placed on a scale, the State must always err on the side of caution.” Even former Agriculture Secretary and Mindanao Development Authority chief executive Manny Piñol has joined the call, saying the Tampakan open-pit mining is an issue that transcends political boundaries and must not be decided by one province alone.

IKE the remarkable ‘Shoulder-To-Shoulder’ post9/11 advocacy for fair treatment of the Abrahamic Religions as they exist in the U.S., the synagogues, chapels and the mosques can once again shake the earth to lead caravan prayers and state-to-state stopover speeches—for Truth amid graduated rise in harmful viruses! Did I hear someone say they are much likely to regenerate into new names every time, just as are Philippine movie stars with their fledgling progenies on issues recurring? Abraham Lincoln once said: “I am the most stupid individual if I cannot bring matters that I couldn’t bear myself, to the one who has the Authority that is Greater than all the rest.” Maybe, that can give some push to flocks to convergence of ecumenical prayers. Where is the world heading to, as conflict erupts in Europe in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; and an economic tension that silently heats up in Asia between Taiwan and China? Didn’t World War II start with Germany’s invasion of Warsaw, Poland and its advancement over Leningrad, Russia in 1939? After sinking U.S. naval ships off Marianas Islands, Japan invaded Formosa (Taiwan) and that triggered World War II in Asia in 1941. Germany declared war on England and the U.S. declared war on Germany in 1940. The rest, so they say, is history. In our time, the U.S. is extending a modern-day role drawn on “all instruments of power” to defend Indo-Pacific interests, to deter aggression on American territory and allay threats against its allies in the region. I wrote this for the Manila Standard freshly last February based on a White House document declassified that month. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has apparently seen this coming which is probably why he isn’t even shaken by the political opposition’s prodding that his administration should assert the International Court’s

Shared space Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

One reality is commonly emphasized by all those who question and oppose the decision of the South Cotabato Sangguniang Panlalawigan: we live in shared space, we have a common home, and the environmental impact of a project as massive as the Tampakan open-pit mine will be felt in one way or another across the area it covers and even beyond. According to TreeHugger, one of the world’s largest information sites dedicated to driving sustainability mainstream, open-pit mining is environmentally devastating. “It consumes enormous amounts of water, heavily pollutes water and air, disfigures landscapes, and permanently destroys habitat. Even after pits are exhausted and sites are rehabilitated, the pit area retains elevated risks of erosion and flooding.” Earth Reminder, a website that is dedicated to caring for mother earth and its resources by providing well organized and researched articles on problems related to the environment, climate change, global warming, geography, renewable energy, and geology, lists the effects open-pit mining has on the environment: soil erosion and pollution, water contamination, species extinction, sinkhole formation, toxicity which affects the air, deforestation and vegetation loss. The Diocese of Marbel, various religious and pro-environment groups, local government units and prominent individuals have reasons for their concerns which are definitely backed up by scientific study and actual community experiences about mining, especially open-pit mining, and the threats it poses to our shared space and eventually our lives. It is not based on “pure speculation.” One such experience is the Marcopper mining disaster on March 24, 1996 on the island of Marinduque in the MIMAROPA region, considered to be one of the worst mining and environmental disasters in Philippine history and made headlines around the world. We believe one deadly community experience is more than enough reason to be wary of open-pit mining and its devastating impact on the environment and people MC

Emerging conflicts amid generations of viruses

Penlight Nash B. Maulana

nash.penlight@gmail.com

Arbitral Ruling on the West Philippine Sea territorial row. Rightly or wrongly, Duterte foresaw it could just trigger a modern-day clash of titans—in which we could helplessly fall down pinned. But the President sees it just right for the Philippines to observe and allow the Freedom of Navigation pacts to take natural course under pertinent inclusive foreign policies among IndoPacific allied nations, mainly the U.S.—minus China and North Korea. Corollary to that, the incoming President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met the ambassadors of allied nations in IndoPacific Region— Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Myanmar and Sri-Lanka—on May 23. *** Gone are the days of lacing-foul politics on foes, to look good. The Binays of Makati were literally demolished by the Senate Blue Ribbon inquiries (in-aid of legislation) long before an LP presidential bet officially declared his candidacy in 2016. And so were Duterte and Marcos mud-slung 2016 through 2022. Lesson: one can’t sink another to float and look good to the rest. Just like the old radio plug battery ad that once said this (translated from the original Visayan lines): “This is the battery that is wrapped in metal so it lasts long; unlike the other that is wrapped only in paper.” To which the other brand answered in Tagalog to mean: “This is the battery that keeps its power within to last long.” MC

of the Almighty to lead in love with a humble spirit; and this is beyond human comprehension that only the wise may understand. And to begin with – Fear God, and that’s the beginning of wisdom. Next step: “Turn at My rebuke; surely, I will pour out My spirit on you; I will make My words known to you” (Proverbs 1:23). This biblical reminder is what rulers and governments need to absorb and execute for the governed to enjoy peace, prosperity and coexistence in the midst of prevailing global threats and insecurities. Violence and food security issues take center stage this week with the Ukraine war still raging. With the food crisis, at least 31 indigents died from a stampede as hundreds took turn to receive food items from a church humanitarian mission in Southern Nigeria. While down South in the Philippines, reports of bomb blasts and shooting incidents were all over media outlets involving public utility vehicles. Security forces blamed terrorists and other armed groups out to destabilize government as probable culprits. Amid a number of skirmishes, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division reported voluntary surrender of armed communist rebels and ISIS-recruits in Sarangani, Maguindanao, North Cotabato and other outlying provinces. Military and police officials cited collaborative efforts of civilians and local government units to the mass surrender. Also this week, some 11,000 MILF and MNLF members took police entrance examination in the BARMM of which more than a thousand passed. The move is enticing Moro and other armed rebels to join the fold instead of fomenting chaos and violence to overthrow government of the people by the people and for the people, said BARMM officials led by Chief Minister Ahod Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim. BARMM’s inclusiveness in moral governance has made it possible under the Duterte administration’s Office of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process to decommission some Bangsamoro fighters into the fold of the AFP and PNP, officials said. MC

True to Form Charlie Señase

csenase@yahoo.com

ISIBLE things happening all around that some wonder, what made it so? That by the end of June PH President Duterte is set to relinquish his post to his Comelecproclaimed successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr. And citizens wonder what will be the country’s future under the hands of new elected head of state and other officials in government? What a numerical coincidence that Rodrigo Roa Duterte in 2016 was installed the 16th President, 77 years old now will end his term in 2022 while his daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio, the elected Vice President has just turned 44 at the end of May. Could it be a double whammy of sort with new list of the Marcos-Carpio cabinet members? For life’s reality is a guessing game to visualize the future. Among those in the Cabinet list of nominees and corresponding posts include Victor Rodriguez, VP DuterteCarpio, Benjamin Abalos, Benjamin Laguesma, Susan Ople, Trexie CruzAngeles, Benjamin Diokno, Felipe Medalla, Manny Bonoan, Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Alfonso Pascual, Arsenio Balicasan, Maria Zenaida Angping, Cristina Frasco, Amenah Pangandaman, Ivan John Uy and Erwin Tulfo. Palace sources said the President welcomes appointing his retiring predecessor as the country’s drug czar when the latter urges the Marcos leadership to pursue the government’s war on illegal drugs. Good leaders in government are those who place the needs of others above their own. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself; let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interest of others (Philippians 2:3-4). It’s time to empty the heart from these barriers, and hold on to the desire

specially the supposed golden era of her father’s term. That they would like to tell their version of the story which they were scared to do in the past 4 decades.. “ Sometimes a second chance he tuff of ife is better than the first time around because you learn your Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy franco1573victoria@gmail.com mistakes from the first time. It’s a second chance not just elcome back, Vice-Pres. Leni for the family as it were for my father and R o b l e d o , f r o m y o u r m u c h the revisit of his legacy. More importantly, deserved rest and recreation. it’s a second chance for the country. (June Congratulations on the graduation of 01, 2022 ABS-CBN) Jilliane from the New York University. Just like her siblings, she was That was a very soothing respite from the pampered growing up; unlike them, she hectic campaign over the last months. was a rebel, a non-conformist. In one of The results of the elections, not her group meetings as chaiman of a youth just the national but also all over the group, she met the dashing sportsman Philippines may not be according to our Tommy Manotoc., the future father of their expectations, “God’s plans for us are greater 3 sons. Interestingly, Mother dear did not than our dreams” approve. Poor Tommy was mysteriously Senate Minority Leader Franklin abducted. After a wild tantrum that shook Drilon, Senate President Vicente Sotto 3rd, the Palace, Tommy resurfaced, “wala lang”. Senate Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, will Tommy was then married to beauty titlist graduate as they end their 6 year term. Aurora Pijuan. One for the movies, right? Senator Manny Pacquiao , Senator Kiko Rotary Club of Cotabato East Pangilinan and Sen. Ping Lacson were celebrates 50 years . The pandemic indeed eligible for reelection but they ran for wreak havoc in our daily lives as well as in higher office.. They will be badly missed. organizations, gatherings, parties, church The last of the few worthy members of the etc. The lock downs kept us at home, august body. especially senior citizens who made up most They will be badly missed. Senator of the RC East’s membership roll. Panfilo Morena Lacson, Sr. served in Not these ladies. Some years back, government for 50 years. A graduate of male candidates for Rotarians were getting the Philippine MIlitary Academy, former scarce, and decided to invite qualified police general, served as Senator since female candidates. It was a masterful 2016 and previously from 2001 to 2013. He idea; it was not unique to this club; they was the Director General of the Philippine never regretted the move. The ladies were National Police from 1999 to 2001, and at par with the Rotarians, is fulfilling was a presidential candidate in 2004 and their objectives even more so, in many in 2022. Today is his birthday, happy instances. They are called Lady Rotarians, birthday sir, and may you enjoy your farm as against the wives of the Rotarians who and your family as you turn a new leaf in are called Rotary Anns. Today, the RC East your life’s journey. Thank you for your is dominated by ladies the likes of Dr. Tess unselfish, honest and dedicated services Mansilla, Dr. Cecille Campomanes, Fe to our country. You would have made an Jaboneta, Bai Sahara Salazar. excellent president. Dr. Tess Mansilla, despite the Senator Maria Imelda Josefa limitations of the current situation, would Remedios Romualdez Marcos , famously not let the 50 years of RC East go by unknown as Imee, older sister of Pres.-Elect celebrated. The Lady Rotarians moved Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was on Karen as one, bringing to an evening of fun, Davila’s Headstart at ABS-CBN. She was reminiscing their joys and triumphs as one game in answering the sensitive questions of the long-lasting service oriented civic from Karen. She allayed speculations organization in the whole wide world. Let’s regarding the revisionism of history drink to that. Bravo! MC

Health Corner

Reprint from Mayo Clinic

isk factors Your risk of becoming infected with the varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox is higher if you haven’t already had chickenpox or if you haven’t had the chickenpox vaccine. It’s especially important for people who work in child care or school settings to be vaccinated. Most people who have had chickenpox or have been vaccinated against chickenpox are immune to chickenpox. A few people can get chickenpox more than once, but this is rare. If you’ve been vaccinated and still get chickenpox, symptoms are often milder, with fewer blisters and mild or no fever. Complications Chickenpox is normally a mild disease. But it can be serious and can lead to complications including: • Bacterial infections of the skin, soft tissues, bones, joints or bloodstream (sepsis) • Dehydration • Pneumonia • Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) • Toxic shock syndrome • Reye’s syndrome in children and teenagers who take aspirin during chickenpox • Death • Who’s at risk? • People who are at higher risk of chickenpox complications include: • Newborns and infants whose mothers never had chickenpox or the vaccine • Adolescents and adults • Pregnant women who haven’t had chickenpox • People who smoke • People whose immune systems are weakened by medication, such as chemotherapy, or by a disease, such as cancer or HIV • People who are taking steroid medications for another disease or condition, such as asthma Chickenpox and pregnancy Low birth weight and limb abnormalities are more common among babies born

Welcome and Goodbye, what’s next?

to women who are infected with chickenpox early in their pregnancy. When a mother is infected with chickenpox in the week before birth or within a couple of days after giving birth, her baby has a higher risk of developing a serious, life-threatening infection. If you’re pregnant and not immune to chickenpox, talk to your doctor about the risks to you and your unborn child. Chickenpox and shingles If you’ve had chickenpox, you’re at risk of a complication called shingles. The varicella-zoster virus remains in your nerve cells after the skin infection has healed. Many years later, the virus can reactivate and resurface as shingles — a painful cluster of short-lived blisters. The virus is more likely to reappear in older adults and people who have weakened immune systems. The pain of shingles can last long after the blisters disappear. This is called postherpetic neuralgia and can be severe. The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults who have had chickenpox. Shingrix is approved and recommended for people age 50 and older, including those who’ve previously received another shingles vaccine (Zostavax). Zostavax, which isn’t recommended until age 60, is no longer sold in the United States.

Chickenpox (Part 2)

2022 Eye Opener

June 4, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Prevention The chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is the best way to prevent chickenpox. Experts from the CDC estimate that the vaccine provides complete protection from the virus for nearly 98% of people who receive both of the recommended doses. When the vaccine doesn’t provide complete protection, it significantly lessens the severity of chickenpox. The chickenpox vaccine (Varivax) is recommended for: • Young children. In the United States, children receive two doses of the varicella vaccine — the first between ages 12 and 15 months and the second between ages 4 and 6 years — as part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule. The vaccine can be combined with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, but for some children between the ages of 12 and 23 months, the combination may increase the risk of fever and seizure from the vaccine. Discuss the pros and cons of combining the vaccines with your child’s doctor. MC increases productivity and performance, and allows other members of the family to participate and learn the ropes of the business. Similarly, for a service provider or an employee, working from home allows them to save on transport cost and travel time, have a better work-life balance, work at their own pace and time, and save money (less expenses on clothing, eating food outside the home, etc.). What businesses can we operate out of our homes? One can produce commodities (such as food items, accessories, and other manufactures), buy-and-sell, or provide professional services from home as long as he or she can set up the system for distributing goods or services, payment system, recording system, among other requirements for a business. With technology, the entrepreneur can do business not only in his/her town or city but also in other parts of the country or even abroad. Products such as software can be sold to anyone, anywhere as long as both the buyer and seller have access to delivery system (e.g. through cloud technology) and electronic payment systems (e.g. PayPal for cross-border transactions or GCash for domestic transactions). Some of the work that can be done from a work-from-home arrangement include: conduct of online training, acting as a virtual assistant, writing documents or speeches, and transcribing. For one to do any of these works successfully, he/ she must learn what the work requires, develop skills, and possess positive work attitude (such as patience, perseverance, flexibility, and teamwork). Whether work is done as an individual service provider or while connected with a regular employer, it is important that we perform our tasks with utmost professionalism and do things effectively and efficiently. Working at home lessens active supervision which could tempt us to be lax and perform poorly and that could be our undoing.. MC

So, You Want to Work from Home….

Market Driven

Danny Buenbrazo

danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com

he current pandemic has given the less developed parts of the world a closer look at work-from-home arrangements, albeit, kind of a “forced” experience for many countries. For some people, working from home was quite easy and a welcome situation but for others a real struggle for various reasons. We can work from home either as an entrepreneur, service provider, or an employee. Depending on the nature of the business or operation that one is involved with, there is a variety of requirements to make working from home feasible. If the nature of the business or engagement involves research, writing, communicating, or making presentations, the basic requirements include: having a computer and/or electronic gadgets, stable internet connection, and a cloudbased video conferencing platform (such as Zoom, Webex, and Google Meet). For those involved in selling goods, arrangements with couriers and payment systems must be in place to make the business function effectively and efficiently. Both entrepreneurs and those who are doing work for others must learn how to use video conferencing software or applications that would connect them with clients, co-workers, and other institutions or persons. Knowledge of different kind of software and systems necessary to run a business or to perform specific types of work is basic to doing work successfully from home. Working from home or running a business from home has gained traction for the good number of advantages such arrangement provides. For the entrepreneur, it takes away rent and other expenses having a leased premise, reduces travel or going out of residence,

THE MINDANAO CROSS

June 4, 2022

Caritas opposes village, SK polls postponement...from P1 Elections. A separate measure seeking to postpone EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Spouses GREGORIO A. FILIPINAS SR. and ZENAIDA C. FILIPINAS who died on November 29, 1997 and April 25, 2016 in Kabacan, Cotabato and Iligan City, respectively, parcels of land Lot No. 3306, Ts268 and Lot No. 3586, Ts- 268, both situated in Bo. Poblacion, Mlang, Cotabato, containing the total area of 1,915 square meters, more or less covered by Original Certificate of Title Nos. P-59969 and P-59970 are the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Regerick L. Benito as per Doc. No. 68; Page No. 14; Book No. CXVII; Series of 2017.

MC: May 28, June 4 & 11, 2022

AFFIDAVIT Notice is hereby given that the late VIRGILIO N. PLANG, sole heir of the late BAI MATABAY PLANG registered owner of a parcel of land Lot No. 651-Lot 3491, Pls-217, situated in Bo. of Carmen, Kabacan, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-7333, with an area of 100,009 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of affidavit of extrajudicial settlement by sole heir before Notary Public Emmanuel G. Ferenal as per Doc. No. 615; Page No. 757; Book No. XCIX; Series of 2022. MC: Jun 4, 11 & 18, 2022

the December 5,2022 Barangay and SK elections to May 6, 2024 was also filed at the House. In 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act 11462, or the postponement of the May 2020 Barangay and SK elections to December 2022. The 19th Congress is eyeing to pass another bill that will reschedule the EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late JOSE D. INOT who died on May 2, 2022, left a Metro Money Market Fund with Metro Bank- Cotabato City Branch under Account No. UT160000071582 is the subject of deed of extrajudicial settlement before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. No. 965; Page No. 965; Book No. XXVIII; Series of 2022. MC: May 21, 28 & Jun 4, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late BIENVENIDO CARCILLAR and MAURA CARCILLAR, who died on March 24, 2012 and November 17, 2006 at Alamada, Cotabato, respectively, left a parcel of land situated at Bo. Polayagan, Alamada, Cotabato, containing an area of 630 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-70597, is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Roland D. Jungco as per Doc. No. 319; Page No. 65; Book No. 110; Series of 2021.

MC: May 21, 28 & Jun 4, 2022

barangay elections in order to save P8 billion which could be used to fight the pandemic. Aside from Caritas, poll watchdog Legal Network for Truthful Elections (Lente), has also expressed strong opposition to the proposed postponement village and SK polls. But outgoing Davao City Mayor and presumptive Vice President Sara DuterteCarpio is supporting bills seeking delay in the village and SK elections. "Well, I do think it is better to postpone the barangay elections because we can save money from the conduct of elections,” she said in a radio interview. Caritas

Philippines

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MANUEL C. PANZO, who died intestate on December 4, 2007, parcels of land Lot No. 1-C, Psd-12-010893(VLT), TCT No. CT-355; Lot No. 563-C, Psd-12-036318, TCT No. T-50221; and Lot No. 5-B-2-B-3-B, Psd-12022118, TCT No. T-32045, situated in Bo. Tubon, Pigcawayan, Cotabato, Brgy. Bambad, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat and Bo. Poblacion, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, respectively, with the total area of 16,190 sq. mts., more or less are the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Nasiff Brian O. Meditar, RN as per Doc. No. 462; Page No. 93; Book No. XI; Series of 2022. MC: Jun 4, 11 & 18, 2022

DEED OF ADJUDICATION

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late VICENTE VALDEZ, who died on March 22, 1987 in Midsayap, North Cotabato, a parcel of land known as Plan Si-11322, situated at Bo. Burungutan, Municipal District of Awang, Cotabato (now Upi, Maguindanao), containing an area of 196,249 sq. mts., more or less, described in OCT No. RP-21(37) is subject of deed of adjudication before Notary public Atty. Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. No. 2007; Page No. 2007; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late KADIL S. SABDAL, a parcel of land Lot 1210-A-1, Dulawan Cadastre, situated in Bo. Kitango, Datu Piang, Cotabato, containing an area of 1,450 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT N o . T- 2 7 0 1 2 i s t h e subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate among heirs with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Atty. Abbyr Ahmad Nul as per Doc. No. 15; Page No. 3; Book No. XXXIII; Series of 2022.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late VIRGILIO N. PLANG, a parcel of land Lot No. 651-Lot 3491, Pls-217, situated in Bo. of Carmen, Kabacan, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-7333, with an area of 100,009 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of addendum to the extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Emmanuel G. Ferenal as per Doc. No. 621; Page No. 77; Book No. XCIX; Series of 2022.

AFFIDAVIT

Notice is hereby given that the late PEPITO S. NUÑALA, who died on January 20, 2019 at Pigcawayan, North Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 3152-B-5, Plan GSD-12-005280 AR, situated in Capayuran now Midpapan I, Pigcawayan, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. 152-CARP2018011995, with an area of 11,340 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of affidavit of self-adjudication before Notary Public Renie Jay A. Soriano as per Doc. No. 118; Page No. 24; Book No. V; Series of 2020.

Notice is hereby given that the late LOURDES TELLORO and DEMETRIO TELLORO, SR. who died on December 1, 2009 and August 16, 2013, respectively, left a parcel of land Lot No. 157, PLS-620, situated in Milaya, Midsayap now Cawilihan, Aleosan, Cotabato, with an area of 29,163 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT-11042 is the subject of affidavit of selfadjudication of estate with simultaneous deed of sale before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 423; Page No. 85; Book No. CCXC; Series of 2022.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

MC: May 28, June 4 & 11, 2022

MC: Jun 4, 11 & 18, 2022

MC: May 21, 28 & Jun 4, 2022

ERRATUM: The above notice was erroneously printed on may 21 & 28, 2022 issues of The Mindanao Cross.

MC: Jun 4, 11 & 18, 2022

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MINDA D. DELA SERNA, who died intestate on April 30, 2022 at Libungan, Cotabato, a bank account maintained with BDO Network Bank- Libungan Branch under Account Number 040350002584 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Noel A. Gretare, CPA as per Doc. No. 5,428; Page No. 29; Book No. XC; Series of 2022. MC: May 21, 28 & Jun 4, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late FEDERICO R. SANTILLAN and EVELYN S. SANTILLAN, who died intestate on July 6, 1998 & July 27, 2021, respectively, a parcel of land Lot 2053-A, Psd-12-008063, situated in Burungutan, Upi, Maguindanao with an area of 50,000 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-8111 is subject of extrajudicial settlement and partition of estate with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Melquiades E. Cedeño as per Doc. No. 238; Page No. 48; Book No. CCCXXIII; Series of 2022.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Spouses WINEFREDA A. ASETRE and BENJAMIN ASETRE, who died on May 20, 2020 and October 26, 2000, respectively in Davao City, a parcel of land Lot No. 1-D-B, Psd-12076322, situated in Brgy. of Rosary Heights, Cotabato City, covered by TCT No. 154-2019000410, with an area of 156 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of affidavit of adjudication with simultaneous deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 1004; Page No. 1004 Book No. XXVIII; Series of 2022.

MC: May 21, 28 & Jun 4, 2022

MC: Jun 4, 11 & 18, 2022

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

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Allen S. Nahilat had filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the birth certificate of Allen S. Nahilat who was born on 28 May 1985 at Kidapawan, Cotabato and whose parents are Rolando R. Nahilat and Nilda Salazar Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office.

In compliance with R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Justine S. Mirabueno had filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the birth certificate of Justine S. Mirabueno who was born on 12 September 2003 at Kidapawan City, Cotabato and whose parents are Francisco T. Mirabueno and Lorna P. Suico. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office.

(Sgd.) MERCEDES P. TOLENTINO Acting City Civil Registrar

MC: May 28 & June 4, 2022.

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

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC 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 Jerlo Pearl B. Landesa has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Jerlo Pearl B. Landesa at Bao, Alamada, Cotabato and whose parents are Melanio M. Landesa & Jerlyn O. Baylestin. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this office not later than June 16, 2022. (Sgd.) MA. LENY B. BUENAFE Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Jun. 4 & 11, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MILA A. PEÑAFIEL who died on January 18, 2016 at San Pedro, Davao City, parcels of land Lot 3889-J-3-C, Psd-12-009194 and Lot 3889-J-3-B, Psd-12009194, both situated in Bo. Poblacion I, Midsayap, Cotabato, covered by TCT Nos. 85368 and 152-2018001917, respectively, with the total area of 400 sq. mts., more or less are the subject of deed of extrajudicial settlement with waiver before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 73; Page No. 15; Book No. CCXCI; Series of 2022.

MC: Jun 4, 11 & 18, 2022

MP Saliga’s office visits Blaan community in Datu Paglas IN pursuit to advancing inclusivity among NMIP groups within the BARMM, the office of MP Saliga conducted a community visit to Blaan indigenous group situated in Barangay Old Bunawan, Datu Paglas, Maguindanao on May 25, 2022. The visit sought to impart to the community the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), its composition, primary mandate, and the important BOL provisions protecting, promoting, and respecting the rights and well-being of NMIPs in the region. MP Romy Saliga highlighted that besides formulating policy measures, the office saw the immediate need of the non-Moro indigenous communities hence it implement other programs and services funded out of its Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE). By practicing the cultures and traditions, MP Saliga expressed that it would emanate a step towards the recognition of the rights provided for by laws. He further urged the community to not get ashamed of their identity as it is recognized by the Bangsamoro Government. With issues and concerns raised by the community members and leaders, the office committed to provide vegetable

seeds in support to the livelihood of women in the area. The youth sector manifested their need of scholarships so they may continue to pursue formal education. Its immediate need is water system and safe drinking water. With these at hand, MP Saliga vowed to endorse their needs to appropriate agencies so it may be properly addressed. “Nasisiyahan kami at napansin ninyo ang Barangay Bunawan. Malaking tulong ang mga programa ninyo,” said Barangay Captain Jay Tocao. “Nagpapasalamat po kami dahil napuntahan ninyo kami. Kung ano man po ang inyong ma-ibigay, taus puso po naming tatanggapin. Sana po ay matutukan ninyo ang mahirap na sitwasyon namin,” said Barangay Kagawad and Tribal Chieftain Tammy Saban. Further, after learning the absence of IPMR in the barangay up to the municipal level, the office eyes to conduct IPMR orientation which aims to provide better understanding on the importance of Indigenous Peoples’ representation in local legislative bodies as stipulated in the law and as directed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

June 4, 2022

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Army: Suspect in bus bombings slain, pal nabbed

MILITARY authorities announced Thursday that a suspect in the series of bomb attacks in North Cotabato, Koronadal City and Maguindanao was killed during focused military operation near the Liguasan marshland. Another member of Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group was also arrested. Lt. Colonel Rommel Mundala, 90th Infantry Battalion commander, said the joint police and military operations in Mlang, North Cotabato led to the killing of Monir Lintukan and the arrest of his companion, identified as Randy Saro, both member of terror group based in Maguindanao marshland. He said the focus military operation was launched in Barangay Dungguan, Mlang, North Cotabato at the break of dawn Thursday. After confirming intelligence reports about the presence of the two suspects in the marshland, an operation was immediately launched, according to Colonel Jovencio Gonzales, 602nd Infantry Brigade commander.

Citing intelligence information, Colonel Gonzales said the suspects in the recent Koronadal Yellow Bus bombing, the Tacurong explosion, bomb attacks on buses in Mlang and Aleosan, North Cotabato and the bombing of Rural Tours Bus in Parang, Maguindanao were sighted in Barangay Dungguan. The group was led by Dawlah Islamiya commander Almoben Camen Sebod and Omal Kamsa, a member of BIFF-Karialan faction. One of the passengers of Yellow Bus where a bomb was set off claimed she saw a man boarding the bus in Mlang, North Cotabato and seated at the rearmost part of the bus. She believed the man carried the bomb that exploded in a moving bus along a busy commercial district in Koronadal City on May 26 that left two

injured. Brigadier General Eduardo Gubat, 6th Infantry Division, commander, has assured the military will continue pursuit operations against terrorists operating in the 6th ID area of operation. He lauded the operating troops and directed them to maintain offensive stance against local terrorists hiding in the marshland of Maguindanao. “Your Army along with other government forces will continue to pursue those suspects responsible for the bombings here in our area,” Brig. Gen. Gubat said. “JTF Central and 6ID will sustain the military operations until the remnants of the terrorist group operating in South-Central Mindanao will be neutralized and the area will be free from any terror group,” he added. Edwin O. Fernandez

Barangay exec nabbed for shabu, gun possession

REBELS NO MORE. Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat acknowledged the surrender of the 12 Dulangan-Manobo tribe members who, on Sunday, turned themselves in to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division via the 603rd Infantry Brigade based in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. John Felix Unson

4 hurt in 3 Maguindanao ambush incidents

MAGUINDANAO'S new police director, Col. Christopher Panapan, said Tuesday they will do their best to identify for prosecution the culprits in Monday's ambush attacks in the province that hurt four persons. Gunmen shot and wounded a school principal in Datu Paglat town in Maguindanao Monday, the third victim in three gun attacks in the province on the same day. Three persons were wounded in separate ambush incidents in Maguindanao’s Sultan Kudarat and Datu Salibo town earlier Monday. School principal Baimon Ambalgan was in her car, en route to somewhere, when gunmen, positioned along a thoroughfare in a secluded area in Datu Paglat, opened fire and immediately escaped. Ambalgan, who was wounded in the attack, was rushed to a

hospital by responding policemen and barangay officials. Lt. Elmar Elacosa, Paglat’s municipal police chief, said Tuesday investigators are still trying to identify the gunmen behind the ambush of Ambalgan. A couple riding a motorcycle was hurt when men shot them with .45 caliber pistols while motoring through a stretch of a national highway in Sultan Kudarat. They were on their way to Cotabato City when they were attacked by men on motorcycles trailing behind. The spouses Paul and Genilyn Bacolor, who both sustained bullet wounds, are now recuperating in a hospital. The ambush of the Bacolors was followed, about five hours later, by a gun attack in Datu Salibo,

Maguindanao that left an aide of the town’s municipal election officer wounded. The victim, initially identified only as Sadam, and Datu Salibo’s municipal election officer, Jean Hangkal, were together in a car, travelling towards Datu Piang, Maguindanao, when men in a vehicle parked along the route shot them with pistols. Hangkal, who was driving their vehicle, managed to speedily drive through and proceeded to a hospital in the town proper of Datu Piang to have her aide, who was wounded in the arm, treated. Panapan, who assumed just last week as new Maguindanao police director, said Tuesday probers are still trying to put closure to all three bloody incidents in the province on Monday. John Felix Unson

2 BIFF dead, 7 hurt in AFP airstrikes

ONE more terrorist perished in the military’s airstrikes that targeted lairs of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Datu Salibo town in Maguindanao, the Mindanao Cross learned this week. Traditional Moro community leaders identified the fatality as Abdul Patir, whom they said succumbed to injuries sustained in the air attacks last week by the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, meant to flush BIFF members out from their hideouts in Datu Salibo. The 6th ID also received reports from local officials and barangay folk that seven gunmen, among them BIFF leader Abu Toraife, got wounded in its anti-terror maneuvers. Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, commander of 6th ID, said Thursday they are bracing for possible retaliations by the BIFF for the deaths of Patir and Sadam Salandang. Salandang was killed in the initial attacks Monday by helicopters equipped with machineguns from the Tactical Operations Group 12 of the Philippine Air Force.

The BIFF, fashioned from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syra, has a reputation for venting ire on non-military targets over losses in clashes with pursuing government forces. Gubat said the BIFF has helplessly been trying to “project strength” to disprove a mounting public perception that it has been weakened by the surrender of no fewer than 300 members to units of 6th ID in the past 18 months. “It is not too late yet for its remaining members out there to yield now, reintegrate into mainstream society via our local reconciliation program for the BIFF and its ally, the Dawlah Islamiya,” Gubat said. Both groups are tagged as behind all deadly bombings in central Mindanao since 2014. Besides six rifles, soldiers scouring interior villages in Datu Salibo also found improvised explosive devices and 40 millimeter grenade projectiles left by BIFF members as they escaped carrying their wounded companions. John

Felix Unson

TULUNAN, NORTH COTABATO — Antinarcotics agents clamped down a barangay councilor from whose house here they found P81,600 worth of shabu during a search over the weekend. Naravy Duquiatan, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-12, said Monday they are to prosecute Renan Balmediano Pragados for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 using the shabu found in his house as evidence. PDEA-12 agents subjected to an extensive search the house of the 38-year-old Pregados in Barangay La Esperanza here owing to persistent reports purporting he is hooked to shabu.

Besides the P81,600 worth shabu, PDEA-12 agents and personnel of the Tulunan Municipal Police Station also found a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition in his house. Pregados is an incumbent member of the Barangay La Esperanza council. Meanwhile, PDEA operatives also seized Saturday P6.8 million worth of shabu from a dealer. But the suspect, a certain “Arson,” had escaped when he sensed that he was dealing with an undercover agent during operation in Barangay Rosary Heights 3. Seized from him was a P6.8 million worth of shabu he left as he hastily left. John Felix Unson

Extortion likely angle in Basilan bombings

THE Army and police are considering "extortion" as the likely motive for the two bombings in Isabela City in Basilan at about dusk Monday. Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Army's 101st Brigade, said Tuesday they have been receiving reports from Basilan residents that the two bomb attacks were meant to intimidate the business community in Isabela City for them to shell out "protection money" to a local extortion ring. Gobway said they are now helping the local police identify the people behind Monday's bombings in Isabela City. An ambulant roadside vendor was slightly hurt in one of two explosions that rocked Isabela City in Basilan one after another at past 6:00 p.m. Monday. The victim, Evangeline Gudilla Francisco, who sustained superficial shrapnel wounds, is now recuperating in a hospital. The first blast was in the vicinity of a Jollibee food outlet in the city proper of Isabela. Security camera recordings showed that the improvised explosive

device used in the attack, inside a yellow plastic bag, was left by a man on a motorcycle and went off in less than three minutes after the suspect had sped away. Officials of the Army’s 101st Infantry Brigade and the Basilan Provincial Police Office said the IED was detonated from a distance using a mobile phone. Another explosion rocked several minutes later the premises of a private bus terminal in Valderosa Street in Isabela City’s Barangay La Piedad, a little farther from the scene of the first explosion. The IED was placed in a box delivered by someone, for shipment to somewhere via the unit 281 of the Biel Transportation Company. In an initial report, the Basilan provincial police said a vigilant militiaman guarding the private terminal noticed something inside the package, hurled it away and exploded as it landed on a concrete pavement. Francisco, who was near the scene, was hit by fragments of the IED, according to police investigators. John Felix

Unson