The Mindanao Cross | September 24, 2022

By John Felix Unson

Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur.“We in the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao are thankful to the teachers, the

barangay tanods and the local officials who helped watch over the activity,” Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon of PRO-BAR told reporters via Viber Tuesday.

in polling sites during the plebiscite day, according to Guyguyon.

By Edwin O. Fernandez was meant to determine if voters in the province are in favor of dividing Maguindanao into

A non-government organization working for peaceful and clean elections in Maguindanao has claimed that irregularities were recorded during the Sept. 17 plebiscite the divided the province into Intwo.a press statement titled, “Actual Peoples’ Participation can Hardly Support

SEPTEMBER 21, 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines by President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. This may be its golden anniversary but it was anything but a dark chapter in Philippine

the High Voters’ Turn-Out,” the Interfaith Movement for Peaceful and Clean Elections (IM4PEACE), the group said irregularities were monitored and reported.

The group’s coordinator, Goldy Omelio, said IM4PEACE had deployed 72 “volunteer-monitors” in 26 villages of Maguindanao’s seven municipalities.

He said there was no untoward incident

Logging a record high number of votes, residents of Maguindanao then voted to divide the province into two:

history that should never be forgotten and should not be allowed to happen again.

“They say we should move on as it has been 50 years since the imposition of Martial Law but there can be no moving on when there is no justice

and accountability, which resulted in more human rights abuses, and efforts to change history fueled by the desire to erase the tragedies of the past,” said Caritas Philippines national KidapawandirectorBishop

POLICE authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is gearing up for the creation of a new police provincial office following the ratification of RA 11550 that divided Maguindanao

into two new political entities.Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, BARMM police regional director, said officials of police regional office and Maguindanao police provincial office

have intensified necessary modifications to uphold the law and guarantee peace and order in the now divided Maguindanao province.

The people of Maguindanao, in a plebiscite on Sept.

3 past Presidents shied away from SKCC

By Nash B. Maulana

IN their terms, three past Philippine Presidents shied away from the 45-year old edifice, where President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. spoke to Bangsamoro leaders in what he described as “an important occasion in a glorious unfolding of history,” in Cotabato City last Thursday.

Mr. Marcos addressed members of the Second Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) inside the

Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center—which was built during the presidency of his father, Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. in 1977.

But for one common reason or another, past Presidents Corazon Aquino, Fidel Ramos and Benigno Aquino III never made use of the SKCC for a venue of meetings with regional and other local officials in all their visits to this city. Neither had they utilized other facilities built P3

TWO generals in the uniformed service separately cited Wednesday the roles of local government units and community public safety enforcers in keeping peace in polling sites during the September 17 plebiscite in the province. Proclamation No. FIDEL

Photo courtesy of ICRC

PARTNERSHIP VS. COVID-19: Hiro Yabusaki, head of ICRC Cotabato Sub-delegation and Dr. Marlow Niñal, Cotabato City Health Officer, sign the Memorandum of Agreement for ICRC support to the campaign against COVID-19. Story on page 10

COMMITTED EDUCATOR. Saida Kamensa, school principal of the Katidtuan Elementary School in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao, uses a canoe to make her way around the inundated school grounds shown in this undated. Story on page 2.

Photo courtesy of Bansamoro Information Office

BARMM building floodresilient schools

A ranking official of the education ministry in the Bangsamoro autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said the regional government is building flood-resilient schools for students whose classes and learning are regularly disrupted by natural calamity.

Mohaqher Iqbal, BARMM’s minister of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE), said the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on the learning process of Bangsamoro learners.

“Aside from pandemic, we are also facing flood problems that submerged many public schools in Maguindanao,” Iqbal said. Aside from Maguindanao schools, public school buildings in most of the 63 villages that joined the expanded BARMM, have been suffering from floods for years and decades.

He said MBHTE is looking for immediate solutions to this perennial problem to avoid accidents during floods and reduce the disruption of school operations in flood-prone areas.

Maguindanao has more than

500 public schools and about half of that are in 18 towns surrounding the Maguindanao marshland that regularly overflow whenever heavy downpour occurs upstream, especially in Bukidnon Cotabato provinces, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato.

“For a long-term consideration, we are designing school buildings that are resilient to flooding,” Iqbal told the BARMM Bureau of Information Office. He did not provide designs or blueprint of the flood-resilient schools, though.

Iqbal said there are school buildings that need reconstruction and repair, particularly in most affected areas such as schools in Cotabato City and the BARMM Special Geographic Area (SGA) in Cotabato province.

“We experience floods repeatedly

and it affected our school grounds and school buildings, we are addressing it,” Iqbal said. In Maguindanao, recent floods swamped 18 out of the province’s 36 towns.AsMaguindanao schools resumed face-to-face (F2F) setup, Iqbal said there were schools that are no longer use for everybody’s safety.

He said school administrators and teachers found alternative ways to provide venues to teach the learners in support of MBHTE's mission that says “no Bangsamoro child shall be left behind” in education.

Iqbal also said his office will soon distribute financial aid to public schools across the region as they prepare for full face-to-face classes in November. Edwin O. Fernandez

Troops glad with Pres. Marcos camp visit

SOLDIERS in central Mindanao got elated with the President’s appreciation of their efforts to contain local terrorists via peaceful interventions, Army officials saidPresidentSaturday. Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. met with officials the Army’s 6th Infantry Division here on Thursday, after his brief engagement in nearby Cotabato City with members of the 80-seat Bangsamoro parliament that he appointed last month.“Our morale soared high, motivating us to work harder in securing the communities in our area of responsibility through domestic peace programs,”

Army Major Gen. Roy Galido said.Galido is commander of 6th ID that has three brigades and more than a dozen battalions deployed in strategic areas in central Mindanao.ThePresident had explicitly told 6th ID officials and their subordinates to “keep up the good work” during a traditional military “talk to the troops” event while in this camp, where the division’s headquarters is located.Units of the Army’s 6th ID had secured the surrender, since 2017, of 367 members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and its

ally, the Dawlah Islamiya.

Both terrorist groups operate in the fashion of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria and are tagged in all deadly bombings in central Mindanao since 2014.

Galido said they were glad with the President’s recognition of their role in maintaining law and order in central Mindanao via backchannel peacebuilding maneuvers.6thID officials also showed President Marcos hundreds of assorted firearms turned in by local terrorists who have returned to the fold of law.

No fewer than 200 members of the New People’s Army have also surrendered

in batches to units of 6th ID in the past 24 months.

Many of them belonged to the indigenous communities in hinterland towns in Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato.Lt.Col. Edgardo Vilchez, 6th ID civil-military and communications programs chief, said what was equally consoling for them was how President Marcos had insinuated about the Army’s flexibility in dealing with challenges related to its peacekeeping missions everywhere.“Weare thankful to President Marcos for his visit to Camp Siongco,” Vilchez said. John Felix Unson

THE total production of marine municipal fisheries (MF) has increased by 3.82 percent in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) during the Fourth Quarter (Q4) of 2021, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The term “municipal fishery” is akin to municipal fishing which refers to “fishing within municipal waters using fishing vessels of three gross tons or less, or fishing not requiring the use of fishing vessel,” as defined under Section 57 of RA 8550, the Philippine Fishery Code of 1998.

Municipal waters cover seawater bounded by imaginary line drawn parallel at points 15 kilometers from the shoreline.

Based on PSA’s newly tabulated data, BARMM has produced 28,516.01 metric tons (MT), up by 1,004.78 or 3.82 percent from the 27,511.23 MT the region produced in the fourth quarter of 2020.

BARMM fishery has operational jurisdiction over 15 km. of municipal waters plus seven kilometres to constitute a Bangsamoro Waters (BMW), under the Annexes of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2014.

The value of production from marine municipal fisheries in BARMM has also increased by 4.39 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021, from PhP 1,804,363.66 in the previous year to PhP 1,883,636.04. In all, the value of production in in the region’s five component provinces has also increased during this period, except for Lanao del Sur.

Tawi-Tawi contributed 40.99 percent of BARMM’s total value of marine municipal fisheries production in Q4 2021. It was valued at PhP 772,035.39 which is 6.20 percent higher than the figures during the same period in the previous year. This was followed by the value of production of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Basilan with corresponding percentage shares of 23.18 percent, 16.78 percent, 14.78 percent, and 4.24 percent, respectively.

PSA figures showed that Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Maguindanao and Basilan have each posted a production growth of 5.03 percent, 1.93 percent, 6.12 percent, and 7.90 percent, respectively, during the same period as compared to those in the last year. The production in Lanao del Sur has decreased by 1.16 percent, the agency added.

It said that Tawi-Tawi has recorded the highest volume of production in marine municipal fisheries in the region during the period. The province contributed more than half or 52.68 percent of the total regional production.

Sulu follows with 19.55 percent share. Lanao Del Sur, Maguindanao and Basilan have respectively contributed 13.05 percent, 9.02 percent, and 5.70 percent.

About 65.29 percent of the total marine municipal fisheries production in BARMM has been sorted into top 10 species in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Among the region’s top 10 species in terms of total value of marine municipal fisheries production are: Yellowfin tuna (Tambakol/Barilies) posted the highest value of production, followed by Frigate Tuna (Tulingan), and Big-eyed Scad (Matangbaka).Otherspecies also posted high production level in the region during this period. Production of the top 10 species has increased by 6.10 percent between the fourth quarters of 2020 and 2021. The volume of municipal fishery production of Yellowfin tuna (Tambakol/Bariles), Frigate Tuna (Tulingan), Big-eyed scad (Matangbaka) and Bali sardinella (Tamban) has also increased to a total of 4.39 percent. Nash B. Maulana

17 that set the record of the most peaceful electoral process in the province, voted to ratify RA 11550 to create Maguidnanao del Norte and Maguindanao de Sur.

The Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous REegion (PRO-BAR) have commenced preparations for the staffing, restructuring and reorganization of the police offices for Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur.

While preparation are underway, Brig. Gen. Guyguyon said PROBAR “will continue to carry out the security measures being undertaken in Maguindanao province and will continue to intensify law enforcement operations while Maguindanao undergoes its transition period.”

He said preparations, in coordination with Camp Crame, include the identification and location of the new Police Provincial Office for Maguindanao del Norte, development of the organizational structure for each

of the new police provincial offices.

It also includes absorption of subordinate Municipal Police Stations and Provincial Mobile Force Companies following the National Police Commission’s directives for the establishment of the two provinces.

Brig. Gen. Guyguyon said with all the adjustments, Maguindanao Police Provincial Office will still be the overall in-charge to oversee the peace and order of the whole Maguindanao until such time that a new Police Provincial Office in Maguindanao del Norte will be established.

Incoming officials of Maguindanao del Norte, led incumbent Maguindanao Vice Gov. Ainee Sinsuat, are considering Datu Odin Sinsuat town as the new provincial capital where the new police provincial office may be established.

“We are finalizing acquisition of lands for the capitol grounds, capitol buildings, provincial offices, including police office,” Vice Gov. Sinsuat told reporters after the YES vote won by

landslide during the plebiscite.

Maguindanao del Norte will be composed of the towns of Barira, Buldon, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Kabuntalan, Matanog, Northern Kabuntalan, Parang, North Upi, Sultan Kudarat, Sultan Mastura, and Talitay. Datu Odin is the proposed capital.Maguindanao del Sur will be composed of Ampatuan, Buluan, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Datu Montawal, Datu Paglas, Datu Piang, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Unsay, Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun, Guindulungan, Mamasapano, Mangudadatu, Pagalungan, Paglat, Pandag, Rajah Buayan, Shariff Aguak, Shariff Saydona Mustafa, Sultan sa Barongis, Talayan, and South Upi.

The current Maguindanao police office will remain in Shariff Aguak town while the capitol stays in Buluan town.

Jose Colin Bagaforo. A wave of international law violations and serious human rights violations were unleashed during the nine-year military rule imposed by to“itregime.survivorsecretaryPhilippinesAntoniotonightcandleMartialduringalltooffreedom,”defendjournalistslawyers,rightschurchwhotheirfavorwidespreaddemonstratedmartialviolationslistcompiledkilled.andwerethousands1972,Ferdinandthen-PresidentMarcosinincludingtensofofpeoplewhoarbitrarilydetainedarrested,tortured,andAmnestyInternationalacomprehensiveofhumanrightsduringthelawera“thatclearlyapatternofsocialinjusticetotheMarcosfamilyandcronies.Manyofthosewerearrestedincludedworkers,humandefenders,legalaidlaborleaders,and-alltryingtoourdemocracyandaddstheprelateKidapawan.“Weareaskingeveryoneofferspecialprayersforwhogaveuptheirlivesthedarkdaysoflaw.Letuslightafortruthandjusticeat6pm,”saidFr.LabiaoJr.,CaritasexecutiveandhimselfaoftheMartialLawAccordingtoFr.Labiao,wasnevereasytryinghidefromablinded

government. During those years, I have seen how public officials allied to then President Marcos, can easily twist the facts and make you disappear. If we are not careful, vigilant, and become truly patriotic, the democracy and freedom that we enjoy today will soon be out of our hands again.”

Fr. Sanny Sanedrin, former executive secretary of Caritas Philippines, recalls that “during that time, Caritas Philippines was one of the few Church agencies that stood up against martial law and became the voice of the voiceless, defended human rights, served the poor, deprived and oppressed, and struggled for social transformation in Philippine society.”Thus, “Caritas Philippines is joining everyone in the call to #NeverAgain let the powers that be control the narratives of the Filipino people. We call on our faithful to look out and defend the truth, fight misinformation and disinformation by supporting legitimate sources of news and information, and by demanding accountability and transparency from government officials, especially those who hold greater positions of power,” Bishop Bagaforo said.

BARMM’s marine MF production up by 3.82%

Caritas Philippines

MEETING THE TROOPS. President Marcos Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. inspects the firearms turned in by terrorists who have surrendered to the 6th Infantry Division in recent months. Photo courtesy of 6ID

“Police precincts opened on time,” the IM4PEACE said. “But there were low number of voters who casted their votes in monitored polling precincts.”

It quoted many voters as saying “It is only now that we know there is a plebiscite” and “hindi namin alam ang plebistito.”Omelio said, “some voters thought it was barangay election day.”

She said the IM4PEACE observations of low turn out of voters from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. was consistent with the monitoring of Namfrel, PPCRV and local and national media.

The group claimed that there were

in the term of the Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook (the autonomy version of the first Marcos administration), which are very much in use to this day as government offices.

areas where voters hopped from one voting precinct to another to vote while some voters were surprised to find in the polling precinct that somebody had voted for “Somethem.members of PlebCom (plebiscite committee) allowed voters to vote for their relatives and family members,” the IM4PEACE said, adding that some Plebcom members distributed the official ballots to barangay officials to fill up.

The group also reported that one village in South Upi admitted to a voter that he was allowed to fill up the ballots “dahil mapagalitan kung low ang turn

out” and “ito ang order galing sa taas.”

The group recommended, for future political exercises, that civil society communities to actively engage on the importance of electoral and political processes, for the state to ensure security of communities who voted against the split, for Comelec to improve mechanism for peaceful community participation in democratic process, for stakeholders to actively participate in awareness rising and election monitoring programs.

It called for the national government to probe the reported irregularities in the plebiscite. PR

are lucky that you have this here. We don’t have one like this in Davao. This is beautiful; I wish we’ve had one like this, too.” Mr. Duterte said, though he didn’t cite anyone for a credit. Presidents shied away from SKC.

“We set our feet before this place and herald the triumph that we have won with courage, certainty and noble bravery,” said President Marcos Jr.

Local political observers have said the President’s visit was

importanttoleadershipout,ways,unprecedentedcomparativelyinsomeandforone,hepointed“Wehavebroughttheofthecountrywitnesstodaythisveryoccasion,”ashe

introduced officials one after the other: Senate President

Juan Miguel Zubiri; House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Supreme Court Justice Japar Dimaampao, and Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr., to Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, BTA Parliament Speaker Pangalian Balindong, and BTA Wali Sheikh Kalipa Nando, Political indifference

Reasons, though unconfirmed, could somehow be based on variety of factors, including political indifference, or bias on the part of post-1986 Edsa officials as “victors” on one hand, toward an immediately preceding administration viewed as “Marcos Dictatorship” on the other.

In her time, Presidential office arrangements made do with a makeshift stage at the façade of the SKC for then President Corazon Aquino and her Cabinet entourage, when she inaugurated the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in February 1991. Of course, she was then facing a bigger crowd of mostly nongovernment officials.

The first President to have made use of the theatric facility—which also houses a Museum established in 1977—is President Rodrigo Duterte during a consultation-series to generate support for the Bangsamoro Organic Law in 2018. Mr. Duterte commented in Bisaya: “You

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

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 Joerie Aquiño Panes has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Joerie Aquiño Panes who was born on December 30, 1985 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Edmundo L. Panes and Marilyn B. Aquiño.

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

(Sgd.) NORAH B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Sept. 24 & Oct. 1, 2022

NOTICE PUBLICATIONOF

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late DATU ULANGTUA SANGKI/ OLANTOWA SANGKI, died intestate on May 23, 2017 in Cotabato City, left parcels of land Lot No. 388, Pls. 544-D & Lot. No. 314-A, Pad (ARMM)-001407, containing an area of 203,115 sq. mts. and 57,320 sq. mts., more or less, located at Bo. Dicalungan and Bo. Kauran, Ampatuan, Maguindanao, covered by TCT Nos. T-11213 and T-18023, respectively are subject of deed of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Abbyr Ahmad Nul as per Doc. No. 210; Page No. 42; Book No. XXXVI; Series of 2022.

MC: Sept. 24 , Oct. 1 & 8, 2022

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Plebiscite peaceful, LGUs role cited...from P1 Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur.

Aside from the high number of votes, the voter turnout in the Maguindanao plebiscite became the second highest in the country’s history, according to Comelec spokesman Rex Laudiangco.

Of the 881,790 registered voters, 712,857 or 80.84 percent went out to vote.

“The Maguindanao plebiscite has the second highest voter turnout for orofPlebisciteresultsplebiscite,”thisvotersvoterstotalturnoutplebisciteLaudiangcocreateddelactivityplebiscites,nextprovince-widetoasimilarconductedinDavaoNortein1998,whichCompostelaValley,”said.TheCompostelaValleyrecordedavoterof89.73percent.“Butintermsofthenumberofregisteredandtotalnumberofwhoactuallyvoted,isthemostparticipatedLaudiangcosaid.BasedontheofficialreleasedbytheProvincialBoardCanvassers,the“yes”votesthoseinfavorofsplitting

Maguindanao were 707,651

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late EMILIO N. PADUA and FILOMENA E. PADUA, died intestate on April 8, 2000 at Nuro, Upi, Maguindanao, left parcels of land Lot C-1-H (LRC), Psd-125751 and Lot No. 107, Pls-730, covered by TCT Nos. 34734 and T-7537, containing an area of 2,745 sq. mts. and 78,672 sq. mts., more or less, situated at Poblacion, Nuro Upi, and Bo. Timanan, South Upi, all in Maguindanao, respectively are subject of deed of extrajudicial settlement of estate with partition before Notary Public Atty. Rolando L. Chew as per Doc. No. 3884; Page No. 389; Book No. 23; Series of 2022, Atty. Leonardo A. Sarmiento III as per Doc. No. 302; Page No. 61; Book No. XCIV; Series of 2022 and Vice Consul Kevin Mark R. Gomez as per Service No. 16961A; Doc. No. 013943; Book No. 024.

or 99.27 percent.

Only 5,206 residents or 0.73 percent voted against the division of the province.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia attributed the record high voter turnout to high public confidence.

“People are not afraid to cast their votes. They trust the process so much,” Garcia said.The Comelec cited the Department of Education, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the local government units for the high voter turnout as well as the peaceful and orderly conduct of the plebiscite.

Major Gen. Roy Galido, 6th ID chief, said few soldiers were deployed in polling sites last September 15 since there was certainty of a peaceful electoral exercise.

“Our troops were deployed that day in the outskirts in anticipation of possible movements by terrorists but there was none,” Galido said via Viber.

Galido said he and staff members of 6th ID are happy that the voters in Maguindanao have freely decided to vote for the division into two of Maguindanao province.“Itwas an exercise done well, by the book,” he said.

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 Myceyl Aquiño Panes has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Myceyl Aquiño Panes who was born on September 9, 1979 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Edmundo L. Panes and Marilyn B. Aquiño.Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this office of Municipal Civil Registrar, Midsayap, Cotabato.

(Sgd.) NORAH B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Sept. 24 & Oct. 1, 2022

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

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), a notice is hereby served to the public that Barnabas Sapal Endong has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Barnabas Sapal Endong who was born on February 1, 2003 at Dalican, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao and whose parents are Lawan M. Endong and Lot M. Sapal.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this(Sgd.)office.PRINCESS

ESNAIRA M. NUR Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Sept. 17 & 24, 2022

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Charlie V. Escobal has filed with this Office a petition for change of sex from Male to Female in the birth certificate of Charlie Vicente Escobal who was born on April 3, 1999 at Barangay Sarmiento, Parang, Maguindanao and whose parents are Charlito Celis Escobal and Rosalie Montargo Vicente.

Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than October 4, 2022.

(Sgd.) KARIM O. OMAR, MPA Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Sept. 24 & Oct. 1, 2022

Republic of the Philippines Region XII City Government of Cotabato OFFICE OF THE CITY 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), a notice is hereby served to the public that Cris Orola Dominisac has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth of Cris Orola Dominisac who was born on March 15, 1991 at Cotabato City and whose parents are Anthonio C. Dominisac and Nenita O. Orola.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this(Sgd.)office.

EDRES A. SAMAMA

Asst. City Civil Officer-in-chargeRegistrar

MC: Sept. 17 & 24, 2022

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 Nur-Aida Tuan Andal has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Aida to Nur-Aida in the certificate of live birth of Aida Tuan Andal who was born on December 1, 1995 at Linek DOS, Maguindanao and whose parents are Billy Anggao Andal and Soraida Tuan.

PMARK Pawnshop Main Branch ng S.K. Pendatun Avenue, Cotabato City, PMARK Pawnshop Alnor Branch, Mall of Alnor, Sinsuat Avenue, Cotabato City ay nagpatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula noong Abril 2022. Ang Subasta ay sa Oktubre 3, 2022 sa ganap na ika 9:00 ng umaga hanggang 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

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. 9048), a notice is hereby served to the public that Ashlea Bulanan Sawal has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Asleya to Ashlea in her certificate of live birth bearing registry No. 2004-0709, registered at the Local Civil Registrar office of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and whose parents are Gani A. Sawal and Racma A. Bulanan.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this office not later than September 26, 2022.

(Sgd.) LESAIDA O. SABAN Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Sept. 17 & 24, 2022

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this (Sgd.)office.PRINCESS

ESNAIRA M. NUR

Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Sept. 24 & Oct. 1, 2022

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), a notice is hereby served to the public that Sapia Z. Alawi has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Hashrin Z. Alawi who was born on December 26, 2008 at Cotabato City and whose parents are Aminodin Y. Alawi and Zapia H. Zacaria.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her written opposition with this office.

(Sgd.) EDRES A. SAMAMA

Asst. City Civil Officer-in-chargeRegistrar

MC: Sept. 17 & 24, 2022

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 Pebrero 2022. Ang subasta ay sa Oktubre 3, 2022 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng mga umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

RANEN PAWNSHOP MAIN, BRANCH I, II & III

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

Notice for Auction

All unredeemed articles pledged on February 2022 will be auctioned on October 3, 2022 at 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Please come before October 3, 2022 for renewal or redemption.

Patalastas ng Subasta

Lahat ng sangla noong Pebrero 2022 ay ipagbibili ng Subasta sa Oktubre 3, 2022 sa ganap na ika-8:30 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon. Kung maari ay pumunta bago ang Oktubre 3, 2022 para sa pagbayad ng tubo o pagtubos.

Republic of the Philippines Region XII City Government of Cotabato OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

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

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

PBBM vows support for BARMM’s peace process

Bangsamoro Parliament holdsinaugural session

COTABATO CITY —The newly appointed members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority formally convened for the inaugural session and election of the new set of officers of the Parliament on September 15, in Cotabato City.

As ceremonial head of the BARMM’s interim government, Bangsamoro Wali Sheikh Khalipha Nando officially opened the inaugural session at 9:26 a.m., with reappointed BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim as the presiding officer.

Atty. Omar Yasser Sema, Deputy Speaker;Atty.Paisalin Tago, Deputy Speaker; Benjamin Loong, Deputy Speaker; Abdulkarim Misuari, Deputy Speaker; Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, Majority

COTABATO CITY — Committing to support the peace process in the Bangsamoro region, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. made his first visit to the region after assuming office to lead the historic inauguration of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

“I assure the BTA and all the Bangsamoro people of this administration’s full and unwavering commitment to the peace process and the BARMM,” said President Marcos, Jr. on Thursday, September 15.

President Marcos and reappointed interim BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim led the ceremonial beating of the agong at 12:13 in the afternoon, hours after the inaugural session of the new members of the Bangsamoro Parliament.

The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Senator Miguel Zubiri, House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Moro National Liberation Front Founder Nur Misuari, and Justice Japar Dimaampao.

President Marcos expressed optimism in realizing BARMM’s vision of a united and enlightened self-governing, peaceful, just, morally upright, and progressive Bangsamoro.“Weare steadfast in our commitment to the peace process here in the southern Philippines, so we push for socio-economic development interventions to promote peace and development in areas affected by decades of conflict,” he said.

The 80 new BTA members took their “oath of moral governance”, under the leadership of Chief Minister Ebrahim, to reassure the public that the Bangsamoro administration is committed to sustaining good governance in the BARMM.

In his speech, Ebrahim highlighted the collective efforts and significant milestones of the Bangsamoro government.

According to Ebrahim, taking the oath of moral governance is a sign of the government’s “renewed commitment to dutifully finish the transition priorities, fight the ills of governance, and fulfill our Amanah, our trust to the Bangsamoro people.”

The previous BTA enacted a total of 31 laws, including three priority codes, such as administrative, civil service, and education.

Ebrahim also said they plan to file more than 20 cabinet bills upon the start of the formal sessions of Parliament, which includes the remaining priority codes.

“We commit to delivering the Bangsamoro Electoral Code and the Local Governance Code, if not by the end of the year, then by the first quarter of 2023,” he said.

They also intend to enact the Bangsamoro Indigenous People’s Rights Act, gender and development code, internally displaced people law, magna carta for persons with disabilities, irrigation system bill, and energy development corporation of the Bangsamoro charter, among other important legislation.

“I also encourage the BTA to pass measures that will ensure the welfare of the Bangsamoro, particularly in agriculture, fishing, healthcare, transportation, communication, digital infrastructure, and e-governance,” President Marcos said.

He urged the BTA to pass all the crucial legislative and fiscal policies, particularly on taxation, and to facilitate the conduct of elections in BARMM in 2025.

“We walk not because it is easy; we walk this path together because even if it is difficult, we know that at the end of the journey, this historical justice, progress, peace, stability, and unity of our people and nation that we have so aspired for are so rightly deserved,” Marcos said.

During the inaugural session, members of the Parliament voted on the speaker, deputy speakers, majority leader, secretarygeneral, and sergeant-at-arms.

Atty. Pangalian Balindong was reelected unanimously as Speaker of the Parliament.

“We cannot fail because our people have suffered enough. It is only through our unity that we can repay the blood that our brothers and sisters had spilt in order to achieve their dream towards peace, progress and right for self-determination,” said Atty. Balindong.

The following are the new parliament officers as nominated and elected by the BTA

Atty.members:Pangalian Balindong, Speaker;

Atty. Lanang Ali Jr., Deputy Speaker; Hatimil Hassan, Deputy Speaker; Atty. Nabil Tan, Deputy Speaker;

Leader;Prof. Raby Angkal, Secretary-General; and Abdulgani Caludtiag, Sergeant-atArms.The term of the Parliament Officers begins upon their election and ends after their successors have been elected.

During the transition period, the BTA is mandated to enact priority legislation, including the Bangsamoro Administrative Code, Bangsamoro Revenue Code, Bangsamoro Electoral Code, Bangsamoro Local Governance Code, and Bangsamoro Education Code, as well as the Bangsamoro Civil Service Code.

Three of the seven priority codes, administrative, civil service, and education, have already been approved.

The first parliament who served from 2019 to 2022 has enacted 31 bills and adopted 263 resolutions.

This afternoon, the Parliament will convene again for the inauguration of the BTA, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gracing the event.

Bangsamoro Parliament elects officers, committee chairmanships

COTABATO CITY — As the new set of members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority formally opened its first regular session on Tuesday, September 20, the BTA elected deputy floor leaders and chairpersons of different parliamentary and statutoryReelectedcommittees.Speaker Atty. Pangalian Balindong presided over the session, with the newly-installed Floor Leader Atty. Sha Elijah DumamaAlba nominating the MPs to oversee their respective committees.Asthe floor leader, Atty. Alba also chairs the committee on rules.

Lawyers Raissa Jajurie, Mary Ann Arnado, Anna Tarhata Basman, and Jose Lorena were the first to be elected as deputy floor leaders.

During the BTA’s inaugural session on September 15, parliament officers were elected, including Deputy Speakers Hatimil Hassan, Atty. Omar Yasser Sema, Atty. Paisalin Tago, Abdulkarim Misuari, Atty. Nabil Tan, Atty. Lanang Ali Jr., and Benjamin Loong, Secretary-General Prof. Raby Angkal, and Sergeant-AtArms Abdulgani Caludtiag.

The second parliament, which will serve from 2022 to 2025, has also started forming its parliamentary and statutory drawwillpractices,rules,Undercommittees.theparliamentaryprocedures,andtheBTAcommitteesconsider,recommend,andreportsconcerningthe

disposition of bills, resolutions, and other preparatory works before presenting them to the plenaryBelowsessions.isthe running

list of the BTA committee chairmanship:Rules:Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-AlbaAccounts: Atty. Anna TarhataWaysBasmanandMeans: Atty. PaisalinBlueTagoRibbon: Atty. Lanang Ali Jr. Ethics and Privileges: Atty. Omar Yasser Sema Amendments, Revision, and Codification of Laws: Atty. Mary Ann Finance:ArnadoArch. Eduard Guerra

Basic, Higher, and Technical Education: Eddie Alih Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy: TawakalAgriculture,MidtimbangFisheries and Agrarian Reform: Matarul Estino

Local Government: Atty. RaissaHealth:Jajurie Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr. Social Services: Engr. AidaLaborSilonganand Employment: Akmad

Development:Highways:LanangCommunications:MacasalongandTrade,AbbasInvestment,Tourism:MarjanieTransportationandAtty.AliJr.PublicWorksandHusseinMuñozHumanSettlementsandEngr.Don

Mustapha Loong Public Order, Security, and Safety: Suwaib Oranon Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs: Ramon Piang Sr. Science and Technology: Atty. Omar Yasser oversightabsencemeetingsmembershipfromMarawi:System:BangsamoroSemaJusticeAtty.JoseLorenaSpecialCommitteeonAliSolaimanVice-chairschosenwithinthecommittee’swillpresideoverandhearingsintheofthechairperson.Allcommitteeshavefunctionsand

responsibilities to ensure that concerned ministries implement laws, policies, and programs addressing specific concerns in their respective jurisdictions.Theyalso have the power to initiate legislation by drafting a bill or resolution and introducing it in the plenary session. It will be known as a committee bill or resolution.

The committees may also hold public hearings and consultations to gather information, facts, and a wider perspective on any legislative measures from professional and expert opinions, organizations, and the public.

Meanwhile, the resolution adopting the calendar session for the first regular session of the second parliament was also approved.

THE Bangsamoro Transition Authority adopted a resolution re-affirming the consensus of the Parliament on the appointment of Sheikh Khalifa Usman Nando as the Wali of the Bangsamoro Government.TheParliament also expressed its sympathy and condolences over the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s

THROUGH

By LTAIS-Public Media

BARMM Chief Minister Ebrahim commits to pass electoral, local governance code by end of 2022

COTABATO CITY — BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim has committed to delivering the Bangsamoro electoral code and the local governance code by the end of the year or first quarter of 2023.

During the inauguration ceremony on Thursday afternoon, September 15, Chief Minister Ebrahim personally handed over to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. printed copies of the draft electoral and local governance codes.

Chief Minister Ebrahim also said that they intend to enact the Bangsamoro Indigenous People’s Rights Act, gender and development code, internally displaced people law, magna carta for persons with disabilities, irrigation system bill, and energy development corporation of the Bangsamoro charter, among other important legislation.

They will also file more than 20 cabinet bills upon the start of the regular session.

“Rest assured, Mr. President, that we will complete all the remaining transition priorities and finish setting up a government

not only for peaceful and orderly elections in 2025 but also a government capable of continuing the transformation of the BARMM into a progressive and responsive region,” said Ebrahim.

The first BTA has enacted 31 bills and adopted 263 resolutions from 2019 to 2022.Healso highlighted the collective efforts and significant milestones of the Bangsamoro government.

“We once again take our oath of moral governance as a symbol of our renewed commitment to dutifully finish the transition priorities, fight the ills of governance, and fulfill our Amanah-our trust to the Bangsamoro people,” said Ebrahim.

Ebrahim also thanked President Marcos for heeding the call of the Bangsamoro people, particularly on the composition and leadership of the transition authority.

“We will make the successful implementation of the Bangsamoro peace process as one of your greatest legacies,” he said.

THE Bangsamoro Transition Authority's Gender and Development Focal Point System held its second round of gender sensitivity training today, September 14.

The training, which was attended by several employees, is part of the BTA's commitment to implementing GAD in its offices and operations.

Discussions in the training include differentiating sex and gender, addressing gender biases, and gender mainstreaming.

Following the training, GADFPS will also conduct training on GAD tools and frameworks to ensure that the policies, programs, activities, and projects of BTA are gender sensitive and responsive.

NEWLY appointed members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority gathered for an orientation on the rules, procedures, and practices of Parliament today, September 13.

"This is an important event for all of you, not only because it will provide you with a run-through on the processes of legislation, which most of you already have working knowledge

of, but more importantly because it will enable us to sync our parliamentary goals towards a common direction," said BTA Speaker Atty. Pangalian Balindong in his opening message.Deputy Speaker Atty. Omar Yasser Sema also reiterated the necessity of the orientation for first-term MPs in order to allow them to perform their duties in an orderly, smooth, and

efficientVotingmanner.procedures for the parliament officers, proper order, etiquette, and conduct of the MPs during the session, as well as the organizational structure of the BTA and functions of respective offices, were discussed in the said orientation.

The activity was initiated by the Office of Secretary General, in partnership with The Asia

TO support the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education in delivering its services to schools and other stakeholders, the Office of the Chief Minister Ahod

A three-day benchmarking activity was recently held in the House of Representatives by the heads of offices from the Plenary and Committee Affairs Department of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority to strengthen their understanding of their functions and duties and learn best practices.

Committee processes, legislative agenda-setting, tracking of priorities, processing of bills and resolutions, documentation of plenary proceedings and debates, drafting of bills, and legislative counseling, were among the topics discussed during the visit to the legislative secretariat of the Congress.

The PCAD, composed of three service offices such as the Plenary Support

Service, Statutory Committees Support Service, and Parliamentary Support Service, is responsible for ensuring that the Bangsamoro Parliament receives timely and effective delivery of substantive support services, as well as providing technical and administrative support services to all standing committees.

The delegation also met with Her Excellency Laure Beaufils, the British ambassador to the Philippines, reiterating that the UK Government through the Westminster Foundation for Democracy will continue to support the legislative secretariat of the BTA.

Said benchmarking activity was through the support of the WFD.

THE Office of Deputy Speaker Atty. Omar Yasser Sema, through the Ministry of Social Services and Development, provided financial assistance to students from several elementary and high schools in MaguindanaoImplementedprovince.under MSSD’s

Angat Bangsamoro: Kabataan Tungo sa Karunungan (ABaKa) program, the educational aid aims to support indigent students in the region meet school-related expenses.

The initiative was funded through the Transitional Development Impact Fund

Ebrahim, recently turned over a service vehicle. Chief Minister Ebrahim’s envision to produce more professionals and improve the quality of education in

the region. Said vehicle is supported through the Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF) of Chief Minister Ebrahim.

By LTAIS-Public Information, Publication, and Media Relations Division

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, will be among the speakers taking part at “Celebrate Asia in Manila”, a conference to mark the 50th anniversary of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC).

An initiative of the Pontifical Mission Societies – Philippines and the Manila archdiocese’s Office for the Promotion of the New Evangelization, the event will be held at the Manila Cathedral on Monday, Sept. 26.

Organizers said the half-day conference aims “to highlight and deepen the reflections and realizations” of the recent diocesan and national synodal consultations in the country.“Italso aspires to expand the experience of Synodality by joining the ‘Church in Asia’ in building awareness, interest and sense of participation as it celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the FABC,” they said.

Aside from Tagle, Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan and president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will also deliver a talk.

The conference will end with a Mass to be presided over by Cardinal Jose Advincula, the archbishop of Manila.

The FABC was established in 1970, when Asian bishops came together for the first time in Manila for Pope Paul VI’s visit to the Philippines.

Activities to mark the federation’s 50th anniversary were originally scheduled in 2020 but the Covid-19 pandemic hampered all the plans.

To commemorate the milestone, the Asian bishops will gather in a general conference in Thailand’s capital of Bangkok this coming October 12-30.

David will lead the Philippine delegation along with other members of the bishops’ Permanent Council and heads of some CBCP commissions.PopeFrancis has earlier designated Tagle as his special envoy to the largest gathering of Asian bishops. The cardinal will officiate the assembly’s closing Mass at the Assumption Cathedral on Oct. 30. CBCP News

Pope Francis: Christians cannot be indifferent to corruption

A huge statue of St. Padre Pi o will soon stand on top of a hill overlooking the city of Cebu, as part of a sanctuary dedicated to the popular Thesaint.Santuario di Padre

Pio project in Pulangbato village will start with the construction of a 100-foot-tall statue of the Italian saint. The ground breaking of the project was held on Sept. 17, in the presence of Archbishop

In This Sunday’s gospel reading Jesus tells an interesting parable about a poor man named Lazarus and a rich man (Luke 16:1931). The rich man was shown as enjoying a very luxurious life and was dressed in “purple and fine linen” and feasted every day. At his gate was a poor man who was waiting for some scraps from the rich man’s table. He was covered with sores which the dogs were licking. When both died the poor man went to heaven, where Abraham was. On the other hand the rich man went to hell. The rich man asked Abraham to allow Lazarus to alleviate his suffering by dipping his finger in water to cool the rich man’s tongue. It was not possible because of the great chasm between heaven and hell.

It is not clear in the parable what great sin or crime the rich man committed that condemned him to hell. What is clear is that he was indifferent to the situation of Lazarus, the poor man at the gate. He may have gained his wealth fairly but he did not care about Lazarus. He committed the sin of omission. In the first reading, the prophet Amos condemned the proud and those who live in a luxurious manner, overconfident that their wealth made them secure, “You drink wine by the bowlful and anoint yourselves with the finest oils (perfume); but you do not grieve over the ruins of Joseph.” They lie on beds inlaid with ivory and eat lamb from the flock (Amos 6: 4-7). Amos warned them that these times would end; they would be the first to be captured and exiled by their enemies. “The feast of prowlers will be over.”

At the beginning of the mass, we recite the “Confiteor,” or “I confess.” We are sorry for the sins we have done and for the good we have failed to do. Sin is not just an active enterprise such as stealing, hurting someone, or telling falsehoods. Sin is also neglecting to do our obligations such as a father not caring for his children, or an employer not giving the proper wage, or a student neglecting his

and a chapel with an altar that will replicate that of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Italy’s San Giovanni Rotondo, where the saint lived from 1916 until his death in 1968. Santuario di Padre Pio will also feature, among others, an adoration chapel, a confessional hall, lounges and social spaces for healing ministry and recollection. Fleriz Zacarias/CBCP News

VATICAN— Pope Francis said Sunday that Christians should not become discouraged or remain indifferent to stories of corruption, but instead “be creative in doing good with prudence.”Speaking from the window of the Apostolic Palace, the pope said in his Angelus address on Sept. 18 that people can “start to complain and play the victim” in times of crisis, even in the Church.

“Brothers and sisters … in our world today there are stories of corruption like in the Gospel: dishonest conduct, unfair policies, selfishness that dominates the choices of individuals and institutions, and many other murky situations. But we Christians are not allowed to become discouraged, or worse, to let go of things, remaining indifferent,” Pope Francis said.

“On the contrary, we are called to be creative in doing good with prudence and the cleverness of the Gospel, using the goods of this world, not only material but all the gifts we have received from the Lord, not to enrich ourselves, but to generate fraternal love and social fellowship.”

The pope’s comments on corruption were inspired by a parable in Sunday’s Gospel in the Church’s liturgical calendar, Luke 16:1-13, a reading that the pope admitted can be difficult to understand at first glance.

Pope Francis said: “Jesus tells the story about corruption: a dishonest manager who steals and then after being discovered by his master, acts shrewdly to get out of the situation. We ask ourselves: what is this

studies. The sin of omission is also being indifferent to the needs of the unfortunate and caring only for oneself, as in the case of the rich man in the gospel. In the scene of the last Judgement (Matthew 25), Jesus the King condemned those who failed to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, and cared for the sick.

The sin of indifference becomes possible when we have lost our sense of duty and sense of compassion. According to some philosophers, duty is a moral obligation imposed on us by obedience to a higher authority. We feel obliged to perform certain actions not because they provide benefits, but because they are demanded by the higher authority (God), or an ethical system (the Gospel), or an inner authority (conscience) or anything else that demands actions from us such as the natural law.

By the demands of natural law, parents are supposed to take care of their children. By the obligations imposed by contracts we are supposed to honor our agreements. By the demands of the Gospel we are supposed to care for the least among our brethren, by Divine Law we are duty-bound to observe the Ten commandments. By the demand of our conscience we ought to fulfill the promises that we have made. Duties imposed by laws seem to be harsh at times (Lex dura, sed lex), the law is hard but it is the law. There is also the softer kind of obligation imposed on us by a sense of compassion or mercy. One who has a sense of compassion has a soft heart for the suffering, be it people, animals, or nature. Our heart goes out to those who are suffering. As another philosopher said, “The heart has its reasons which reason does not know” (Blaise Pascal).

May we recover our sense of duty and our sense of compassion. Only then can we overcome indifference and the sin of omission.

SatFriThuWedTueMon

shrewdness about … and what does Jesus want to tell us?”

“Jesus uses this story as a way to put before us a provocation when he says: ‘The children of this age are more shrewed in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light.'”

Pope Francis commented that those who live by “certain worldly standards” today seem to know how to get by even when in trouble, while Christians can sometimes be “naive, not knowing how to take the initiative to find ways out of difficulties.”

“I am thinking of times of personal or social crisis, but also Church crisis: sometimes we give in to discouragement or we start to complain and play the victim. Instead, Jesus says we can also be clever according to the Gospel, awake and alert to discern reality and be creative to find good solutions for us and others,” he said.

Before praying the Angelus prayer with the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis encouraged people to remember: “To inherit eternal life then, there is no need to accumulate goods in this world, but what matters is the charity we have lived in our fraternal relationships.”

The pope prayed for people in Ukraine and all victims of war. He said that he was sorry to hear about the fighting in Armenia on the border with Azerbaijan and is praying for a ceasefire.

“Let us pray to the Blessed Virgin Mary so that she may help us be like herself, poor in spirit and rich in mutual love,” he said.

Courtney Mares/Catholic News Agency

Cardinal Tagle to speak at Manila conference on FABC’s 50 years Sunday in Ordinary Time

Readings:

Amos 6.1a, 4-7; 1 Timothy 6.11-16; Luke 16.19-31

Readings: no. 662, p. 1842; BG, p. 467

1st Reading: Revelation 7.9-17

2nd Reading: 2 Corinthians 4.7-15

Gospel: Luke 9.23-26 or Gospel: John 12.24-26

Readings: no. 456, p. 1641 or no. 645, p. 1845

1st Reading: Job 3.1-3, 11-17, 20-23 Gospel: Luke 9.51-56

Readings: no. 457, p. 1643

1st Reading: Job 9.1-12, 14-16 Gospel: Luke 9.57-62

Readings: no. 647, p. 1845

1st Reading: Revelation 12.7-12a or 1st Reading: Daniel 7.9-10, 13-14

Gospel: John 1.47-51

Readings: no. 459, p. 1647 or no. 648, p. 1848

1st Reading: Job 38.12-21; 40.3-5 Gospel: Luke 10.13-16

Readings: no. 460, p. 1649 or no. 649, p. 1849

1st Reading: Job 42.1-3, 5-6, 12-13, 15-17++ Gospel: Luke 10.17-24

100-foot-tall Padre Pio statue to rise in Cebu

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle during a press conference in the Vatican on Sept. 27, 2017. Photo courtesy of DANIEL IBÁÑEZ/CNA

A perspective of the proposed Santuario di Padre Pio project in Cebu City.

Photo courtesy of SANTUARIO DI PADRE PIO-CEBU

Jose Palma and members of the replicaclasssiteTheFoundation.ofPadretowillAtCebu.CommunityContemplativeofPadrePiodetheheartofthestatuebeanoratory,accordingtheprojectproponent,St.PioHomefortheRelieftheSuffering-PhilippinesenvisionedpilgrimagewillhousesomefirstrelicsofPadrePio,aofhisincorruptbody,

Focusing on Food security

Whentalking about poverty, the most important issue is food security. In every country in the world, poverty is reflected by people who look for food in garbage bins; or in the Philippines, people who scavenge for left-overs in dumps of fast food establishments. Without food, people become prone to sickness, which prevents them from contributing effectively to the development of their communities.

Food insecurity becomes obvious in urban areas because in rural areas, there is enough to food available. Planting of vegetables and other food crops, growing chicken and other animals, fishing for food, saves residents from going hungry. Why then is food security a primary concern?

According to the Philippine Institute of Development Studies, “Using various indicators for the four dimensions of food security, namely, food availability, food accessibility, food utilization, and stability, they found that food security goal is yet to be achieved. Even the country’s performance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger reflects that there have been some improvements, but significant and major challenges remain to be addressed.

In 2020, a research by the institute found that 64% of the population are chronically food insecure. These are highest in Lanao del Sur, Occidental Mindoro, and Northern Samar (50% to 52%) followed by Sulu, Masbate, Samar, Zamboanga del Norte, Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, Southern Leyte, Zamboanga Sibugay, Bukidnon, and Saranggani (40 to 49%).

It is worth noting that 4 of these provinces which are food insecure are found in the BARMM. With the wide areas of agriculture in Lanao and Maguindanao, these should easily be solved with projects targeting food security. Even the island of Sulu is said to be teeming with aquatic products. A focus on agriculture and fisheries would likely solve the problem. But there is the issue of malnutrition. Even with the abundance of food products, malnutrition would still be a problem if the population are ill equipped to take the necessary steps for a well-nourished family.

But lack of knowledge is not the only contributory factor to poor food security. The frequent typhoons, flooding alternating with drought, and the non-existent farm to market roads are also major factors to consider. In addition, with climate change that produces unpredictable weather patterns, whatever farm to market roads are available are destroyed and takes too long to repair.Itis no wonder that the factors cited to contribute to food insecurity are used by some corrupt officials to push for food importation. Ostensibly, importing food from other countries will stabilize the price of food commodities; but the government should monitor closely the local practice of importing food products. With food stability difficult to establish, corruption will show its ugly head. Hopefully, we stick to moral governance to lessen the pain caused by poverty to our countrymen. MC

Laudedby the Diocese of Marbel as “another victory” in stopping the controversial Sagittarius Mines, Inc. from operating in South Cotabato, Tampakan Mayor Leonard Escobillo revoked the permit of SMI on September 15 due to alleged “fraud and misrepresentation.”

Explaining his move in a press conference on September 16, Escobillo said he was implementing the Municipal Tax Code of 2012, which allows the local chief executive to revoke or deny business permits if the applicant deliberately makes false statements in its application.“There’s nothing personal in this case. We are just doing our obligation, which is to implement our tax ordinance,” Escobillo said, adding that “the description of the business on the undertaking that is to be conducted was falsely stated.” He said that as per the mayor’s permit, SMI is classified as a mineral exploration manufacturer, which is contrary to the LGU’s assessment that the company is not operating as a manufacturer but as a general engineering contractor. “Nothing personal about this case. No opinion for or against mining. We are just doing our obligation to implement ordinances,” Escobillo said.Prior to the cancellation of the mayor’s permit, the local government unit of Tampakan has demanded tax dues worth P397 million from Sagittarius Mines, Inc., a move which SMI has questioned before a local court. According to reports, the municipal treasurer’s office of Tampakan found SMI deficient for business tax from 2020 to 2022 and mayor’s permit fees and other regulatory fees from 2013 to 2022.

The Diocese of Marbel, with the support of local, regional, and national pro-environment and antimining groups, is at the forefront of the fight against the operation of the SMI’s $5.9 billion copper-gold mine project, considered the biggest untapped copper-gold reserve in Southeast Asia, expected to yield an average of 375,000 tons of copper and 360,000 ounces of gold annually. It covers around 10,000 hectares, straddling the four provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and Davao del Sur. The project was stalled for over a decade following a 2010 ban on mining, which was extended to open-pit operations in 2017. The ban was lifted late last year by former President Rodrigo Duterte, who ended his six-year term in June, paving the way for Sagittarius Mines to reopen the project amid opposition from various groups.

Three days after the May 16 decision of the South Cotabato provincial board to lift the ban on open-pit mining in the province, protesters gathered at the South Cotabato provincial capitol in Koronadal City demanding

IN all the time that I knew Datu Mama S. Dalandag, I held him in high reverence: He was a traditional authority, a lawyer-dean, a trial-lawyer, a historian, and one who indeed had, until the day of his demise, figured in many a diverse fields of endeavor.

I knew the late Atty. Datu Mama S. Dalandag from way back in 1984 when I was with OMACC, my first employment while I was then a student. From Cotabato City, he would occasionally visit his older brother Datu Culot S. Dalandag (RA) at 5954-A Fermina St. near the Makati City National High School in Burgos. He was simple in his lifestyle and moderate in his speech and in deeds. The place was just a few hundred steps from Belair Village, a millionaires’ row that I and Arnulfo Cayugan used to “trespass.” A few steps from the apartment was a serene dimly lit corner, a nightclub that none of us dared to enter, since it was held almost exclusively for FPJ where he’d at times fire his .45 pistols for the movie. But once it happened for real when while drunk, he shot the street lamps. I only read it on one evening edition of a daily tabloid through which the king of PH movies gracefully apologized.

Back home, I would pay Atty. Dalandag visits at his family-owned apartment behind the old Coca-Cola warehouse opposite the Cotabato State University.

Datu Mama was fond of sharing with me historical facts, even in those years when I barely read the works of Zaide and Guerrero. In one of those visits, he gave me a mimeographed copy of ‘Tadhana’’ in which President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. glorified the heroism of Rajah Silongan and Datu Ubal in the 1599 Figueroa Expedition to Cotabato. Notably, and in fairness, most of the sources cited in ‘Tadhana’ were from the works of the Jesuits. Atty. Dalandag also drew a genealogical diagram, which I have kept for quite some time, in which he traced the blood relations between Sultan Kudarat and Rajah Balatamay.

for the retention of the 12-year-old ban on open-pit mining in the province. They gathered again on June 1, the first day of the yearly month-long commemoration of Environment Month in the Philippines reiterating their call. Resolutions and statements opposing the resumption of the project likewise came from the Sustainable Davao Movement, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of General Santos City, and the Sangguniang Bayan of the town of M’lang in Cotabato Province, among others.

For the Diocese of Marbel, the decision of the Tampakan local government may be considered a timely move, even a blessing, as Christians around the world observe the “Season of Creation” with the theme “Listen to the Voice of Creation.” The observance, which started on September 1, will culminate on October 4, the liturgical memorial of St. Francis of Assisi, patron of ecology.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, said as the observance commenced that it is time to “listen to the voice begging us to change our abusive ways.” He urged Filipinos to be “mindful of the terrible and irreversible effects of our destructive and plunder-driven models of development on the earth, our common home.” In a pastoral letter issued in 2019 titled “An urgent call for ecological conversion, hope in the face of climate emergency,” the CBCP identified the destruction of nature through extractive mining as among the causes of the continuous escalation of greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere which, in turn, is causing the climate crisis, a climate crisis which, they warned, is bound to get much worse in the years ahead.

For Yoly Esguerra of Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc., the Tampakan local government’s revocation of SMI’s mayor’s permit is a step forward in ensuring that town’s residents will have a healthy ecology today and a better future. She added: “It gives an example for other LGUs that they have the power to exercise their authority under the law, to willfully decide on its development direction, protect its people and ecological systems, and assert its governmental autonomy.”

Balatamay backed up Kudarat in all the wars that the Maguindanao Sultanate fought against Spain. But Datu Mama rejected any assumption that the Rajah in Balatamay had in any inch differed in nobility of ranks with Kudarat as a Sultan.

He described Rajah Buayan Balatamay as a “Ligudan” which means a martial arts expert; as “Bangayaw” (raider of communities up north and taker of men residents for slave trading); and was the one who slew Padre Melchor Lopez in Simuay in 1645. It was not clear if Kudarat consented to Lopez’s killing, but Balatamay earlier told Kudarat that Governor-General Diego Fajardo should have come down instead of sending in the padre to sign for Spain on a crucial amity treaty that would entail the cession of Tamontaka, Caraga and Camiguin, before delineating Maguindanao from Las Islas Filipinas, under the 1645 Lopez-Kudarat Treaty.

Because of this, Balatamay exiled himself to Sulu and married one of the two daughters of Sultan Muwallil Wassit Bungsu--and begot Sittie Khabira, by the Buayan Genealogical records upheld by the late Atty. Datu Mama S. Dalandag. I realized that I was looking for his picture for days, after his demise. Not being set in “public” mode, I could not share the post of his former student, Atty. Bobby Katambak. And so I had his photo downloaded from Bobby’s post and modified it in size and in pixel resolution.

Never Again

INlife, fortune or misfortune happen for a divine reason for the world to know the essence of God’s wisdom behind lessonlearned.Here at home, people chanting “Never Again” has been going-on reverberating for fifty years since September 21 the day the Philippines was under martial rule wherein Communist-backed protesters and human rights advocates suffered and died. The struggle for independence from that dictatorial rule of 1972 lasted for 14 years when then President Ferdinand E. Marcos was ousted through a bloodless People’s Power Revolt in 1986.

With the dictator’s son and namesake Marcos Jr. at the helm with his unprecedented electoral victory early this year, the so-called “People’s Power Movement” has remained up-and-about with its “Never Again” stance.

In life, we often ask why did it happen? And in the case of Martial Law, why was it declared? And to all the victims (dead or alive), survivors quip – Why them and not us orMemory-wise,vise-versa?

Martial Law was meant to instill discipline with its nationwide battlecry - “Sa ikauunlad ng bayan, Disiplina ang kailangan,” which was neighboring Singapore’s major key to progress and peaceful coexistence.

In biblical times, the killer floodwaters that saved Noah’s ark, the fire that consumed Sodom and Gomorrah and many more catastrophes were manifestations of God’s wrath on men’s stubborn wickedness as in corruption and violence, changing God’s Truth for Reportslies.of never-ending crimes on lust for worldly possessions and lawless violence for monetary-sake, extortion, corruption, and all sorts of scam are worsening, that even law enforcers and pious men are “partners in crime.”Weall make mistakes is reality and to admit is humility in repentance. And comes this unusual headline that reads: After 39 years as jail inmate and found out wrongly convicted, the 72-year-old man was freed

and given P1 billion in cash by the government. This is something that other innocent incarcerated felons should hope for – With God’s grace expect for the unexpected as in fame or fortune.

One of the reasons why some refuse to join fraternal groups that espoused brotherhood or sisterhood is because of ceremonial hazing (physical harm) as a loyalty test to endurance of which cases of untimely deaths were reported.

It’s OK if we are servants working for God’s glory that public service through His WORD is free to be pursued despite trials and persecution so others may live to know God the Father, His Son and the Holy Spirit.

The recent Peace and Unity meeting by political bigwigs in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in the presence President Marcos hopes to usher-in optimism for a better future. Unfortunately, however, while hugs, hand-shakes and warm greetings surrounded the air at the city’s SKKC on September 15, three Army troopers were killed in an ambush by terror group in BARMM province of Basilan.

Early this week, unidentified man driving an Isuzu pick-up was gunned down by unknown assailant in Midsayap, North Cotabato. The broad daylight ambush was witnessed by many passersby that authorities are looking into the identities and motive behind the slay plot. The Bangsamoro government is closely coordinating with North Cotabato as some of Midsayap villages are now part of BARMM to help resolve the bloodyAmidmess.occasional break-down of law-andorder BARMM Interim Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim is steadfast to pursue peace and coexistence when he approved this week the distribution of P15,000 cash to each of the 333 indigent residents of Cotabato City and Maguindanao mostly senior citizens and those with physical disabilities belonging to all tribes. It was made possible through Ebrahim’s inclusive Project Tabang to the poor and disadvantaged settlers.

Thecolon is made up of the cecum, the ascending (right) colon, the transverse (across) colon, the descending (left) colon, and the sigmoid colon, which connects to theStool,rectum.or waste left over from the digestive process, is passed through the colon by means of peristalsis, first in a liquid state and ultimately in a solid form. As stool passes through the colon, water is removed. Stool is stored in the sigmoid (S-shaped) colon until a “mass movement” empties it into the rectum once or twice a day.

It normally takes about 36 hours for stool to get through the colon. The stool itself is mostly food debris and bacteria. These “good” bacteria perform several useful functions, such as synthesizing various vitamins, processing waste products and food particles and protecting against harmful bacteria. When the descending colon becomes full of stool, or feces, it empties its contents into the rectum to begin the process of elimination (a bowel movement).

Rectum

The rectum is a straight, 8-inch chamber that connects the colon to the anus. The rectum’s job is to receive stool from the colon, let you know that there is stool to be evacuated (pooped out) and to hold the stool until evacuation happens. When anything (gas or stool) comes into the rectum, sensors send a message to the brain. The brain then decides if the rectal contents can be released or not.Ifthey can, the sphincters relax and the rectum contracts, disposing its contents. If the contents cannot be disposed, the sphincter contracts and the rectum accommodates so that the sensation temporarily goes away.

Anus

The anus is the last part of the digestive tract. It is a 2-inch long canal consisting of the pelvic floor muscles and the two anal sphincters (internal and external). The lining of the upper anus is able to detect rectal contents. It lets you know whether the contents are liquid, gas or solid.

creates an angle between the rectum and the anus that stops stool from coming out when it’s not supposed to. The internal sphincter is always tight, except when stool enters the rectum. This keeps us continent (prevents us from pooping involuntarily) when we are asleep or otherwise unaware of the presence of stool.

When we get an urge to go to the bathroom, we rely on our external sphincter to hold the stool until reaching a toilet, where it then relaxes to release the contents.

CONDITIONS AND DISORDERS

What are some common conditions that affect the digestive system?

There are temporary conditions and long-term, or chronic, diseases and disorders that affect the digestive system. It’s common to have conditions such as constipation, diarrhea or heartburn from time to time. If you are experiencing digestive issues like these frequently, be sure to contact your healthcare professional. It could be a sign of a more serious disorder that needs medical attention and Short-termtreatment.ortemporary conditions that affect the digestive system include:

•Constipation: Constipation generally happens when you go poop (have a bowel movement) less frequently than you normally do. When you’re constipated, your poop is often dry and hard and it’s difficult and painful for your poop to pass.

•Diarrhea: Diarrhea is when you have loose or watery poop. Diarrhea can be caused by many things, including bacteria, but sometimes the cause is unknown.

•Heartburn: Although it has “heart” in its name, heartburn is actually a digestive issue. Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest that can move up your neck and throat. It happens when acidic digestive juices from your stomach go back up your esophagus.

•Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen, enlarged veins that form inside and outside of your anus and rectum. They can be painful, uncomfortable and cause rectal bleeding.

Despite good deeds there are others who are not recipients of the program would surely complain. Be patient to trust God more than anybody else. For each one has his own time as this old familiar song connotes – “May Be This Year”. But God knows best for us to say Never Again! MC MC

Not Meant to Be

Royal family stories fascinate me.

The past 10 days kept us glued to our television. It was told that this pageantry had been practiced, revised, reviewed many times over since 30 years ago, the mark of previous Kings enshrined in it while Queen Elizabeth II was very much into the preparation. Immediately after the funeral was done with, King Charles II was oriented for the same ritual when his time comes.

Many believe these are none of our business, not so. It is history in the making. “Don’t send for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for you”.

Marites muna. Senator Imee Marcos was going to the funeral, she was not seen in the crowd; her sister Irene and her husband Gregie Araneta were focused by the camera.Onthe other side of the world, Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivered his 15 minutes’ worth of talk to an almost empty hall at the United Nations General Assembly, save for the Philippine Delegation.

While other European colonial powers were barging into Africa and plundering resources, and taking African lives, Belgian King Leonard II built his Congo Free State and privately owned it. Here he established Belgian imperial power and committed widespread horror under his rule. Leopold’s goal at the time was to bring civilization to the people of Congo.

When slaves did not meet daily quotas for rubber and ivory, their hands were cut off and family members met their demise. Disease and malnutrition was rampant, and estimated that 10-15 million Congolese people perished.

But before Leopold set his sights on

Africa, he tried to negotiate a deal to purchase the Philippines. It is said that King Leopold’s intent was to establish the Philippines as a Belgian colony when he first ascended to the throne in 1865. King Leopold II wanted to expand his nation’s influence to the East. And this would begin with the Philippines due to its convenient location and its network to China and Japan.

His government however did not share his vision. In 1866 Leopold sent his envoy to Madrid to meet with Queen Isabel II of Spain, about the possible Belgian possession of the Philippines. His ambassador did not support the move and was therefore replaced with someone more agreeable. This was the first attempt.

The second attempt came 2 years later when Isabela II was overthrown. King Leopold again sought the outright sale of the Philippines with Spain’s new Belgianeventuallyindependentthefunds.heUnfortunatelyadministration.fortheking,didnothaveenoughHisplansonmakingPhilippinesancountryandacolonyofthemonarchycould

not materialize because the English banks from who he asked for personal loans did not want to lend him money.

King Philippe of Belgium recently made a historic visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo offered regrets but no apology. He amplified his first voiced regrets two years earlier over Belgium’s brutal colonial rule. The colonizers hauled away artworks and artifacts. Some of these were already returned and on display in their museum. DR Congo, a nation of 90 million people, is one of the poorest countries in the world.

Congratulations to my favourite designer and best friend Pepe Quitco. Too bad we missed the latest Bridal Fashion Show held at the Al Nor. It was a smashing success, I was told. Trust Pepe to come up with innovative and creative outfits. His models were lovely too.

The anus is surrounded by sphincter muscles that are important in allowing control of stool. The pelvic floor muscle

•Stomach flu (gastroenteritis): The stomach flu is an infection of the stomach and upper part of the small intestine usually caused by a virus. It usually lasts less than a week. Millions of people get the stomach flu every year.

Peso Depreciation: Causes and Impacts….

AR ket d R iven

weak currency is a sign of a weak economy and a weak economy leads to a weak nation.”—Ross Perot

The Philippine Peso depreciated by P7.50 from an exchange rate of US1.00 to P51.00 at the end of year 2021 to US1.00 to P58.50 as of 22 September 2022. This is a 14.70% erosion of value and the Philippine currency is posting a historical low almost every day this week.Prior to this episode of depreciation, the previous ow was posted in the year 2004 when the Peso traded at US1.00 tto P54.70.

Before we progress with our discussion, let us understand the meaning of currency depreciation and the possible causes for this phenomenon.

Investopedia defines currency depreciation as “a fall in the value of a currency in terms of its exchange rate versus other currencies.” Currency depreciation may occur due to factors such as weak economic fundamentals, interest rate differentials between countries, perception of or actual political instability, or risk aversion among investors. A country’s currency is affected by both internal (local situation) and external factors (by events happening elsewhere in the world).Currency depreciation is marketdrive in contrast to currency devaluation which is the “deliberate downward adjustment of the value of a country’s currency by government, particularly by the monetary authorities. A country devalues its currency for the purpose of achieving some economic goals such as to promote exports and discourage imports.Why is the Peso depreciating?

There are two external triggers

for the depreciation of the Peso (and other foreign currencies) visà-vis the US Dollar, the COVID-19 pandemic that constrained the movement of goods and people and the Russian invasion of Ukraine that cause a turmoil in the oil market and also disrupted supply of wheat and other commodities produced by Ukraine,

It may be ironic that the United States have a very high inflation rate for the last few months but businessmen and those in the financial markets find comfort in the US Dollar. A series of significant interest hikes by the US Federal Reserve in recent months (plus another big rate high looming) were done to persuade people to save their money and avoid spending that fuels inflation.

For the Philippines, aside from the external factors, things such as the widening trade deficit (import is higher than export) and a surge in the country’s foreign debt (due to huge external borrowings by the previous Administration) heighten demand for the US Dollar and other foreign Whatcurrencies.arethe impacts of a falling Peso?

A depreciation affects different sectors and people in different ways. In the business sector, those that export their products gain from getting more Pesos from the Dollars that their customers pay them but those that solely cater to the local market suffer from higher cost of imported materials. Loans will be more expensive for businesses and Familiesconsumers.of Overseas Filipino Workers benefit from getting more from the dollars they receive from abroad.

Ordinary Filipino consumers will suffer from the higher cost of imported products and those locally manufactured but with components imported from abroad.

How low can the Peso get?

At the speed that the Peso has dipped from around US $1.00 is to P52 to its current rate, it cannot be ruled out that the exchange rate could touch the US $1.000 to P60.00 level.

“Don’t send for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for you”.

he s tuff of l ife

Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy

“A

Danny Buenbrazo danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com

11 wanted robbers

in Lantawan on June 15, 2016, where they carted away P1.3 million worth of cash and valuables from the

victims.The Basilan Provincial Police Office, in a report to PRO-BAR’s headquarters

ANNOUNCEMENT

Ang Feroce Pawnshop & Money Changer-Main at Branches I, II, S.K. Pendatun, Sinsuat Avenue, sa Cotabato City, Branch III sa Midsayap, Kidapawan Branch, Isulan Branch at San Pedro Branch sa Davao City ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Oktubre 31, 2022 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Mayo 2022.

Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta.

“Sa Feroce Pawnshop na tayo kumpleto na ang serbisyo” MC: Sept. 24, 2022

ANNOUNCEMENT

Ang G-ROCE Pawnshop sa Cotabato City at G-ROCE Pawnshop Damosa, Davao City, ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Oktubre 31, 2022 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Mayo 2022.

Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta.

MC: Sept. 24, 2022

here, said the 11 suspects were preparing to leave Lantawan using a pumpboat when policemen, backed by

personnel of the Army’s 19 Special Forces Company, arrived, frisked and cuffed them one after another.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Ang Feroce Pawnshop & Money Changer Inc.- Main , Duterte, Davao City, at Branches I, II, III, IV, V, VI sa Cotabato City, Branch VII sa Parang, Maguindanao, Pigcawayan Branch Midsayap Branch, Pikit Branch at Kabacan Branch sa North Cotabato, ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Oktubre 31, 2022 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Mayo 2022.

Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta.

“Sa Feroce Pawnshop na tayo kumpleto na ang serbisyo”

MC: Sept. 24, 2022

Guyguyon said the operation that resulted in the arrest of the 11 long wanted robbery suspects was premised on reports by barangay leaders and local officials about their presence in the area, as if planning to perpetrate another heist. John Felix Unson

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE PUBLICATIONFOR

“PETITION FOR DIVORCE BY FASKH WITH PRAYER FOR CUSTODY OF MINOR AND SUPPORT”Civil Case No. 2022-68

NOTICE

VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I AND BRANCH II will hold a public auction sale of all unredeemed and unrenewed items pawned from March to April 2022 on October 6, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. at VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., and VGM PAWNSHOP INC. II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City Be There, Management

SUBASTA

Ang VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I ug BRANCH II magsubasta sa tanan nga wala lukata ug wala tubui gikan sa bulan sa Marso hangtud sa bulan sa Abril 2022 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag karung Oktubre 6, 2022 sa VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., ug sa VGM PAWNSHOP BRANCH II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City. Ang Nagdumala

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late JOAQUIN BERMEJO, who died on January 24, 2001 in Cotabato City, left a parcel of land Lot No. 3272-B, Csd12-006657-D, situated in Manuangan, Pigcawayan, Cotabato, containing an area of 40,511 sq. mts., more or less, covered by Katibayan ng Original na Titulo Blg. P-63066 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Atty. Nasiff Brian Meditar as per Doc. No. 359; Page No. 72; Book No. XVI; Series of 2022.

MC: Sept. 10, 17 & 24, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late ARTEMIO VILAR and NEMECIA VILLARUBIA , who died on November 5, 1990 and May 20, 1980, respectively, both in Midsayap, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 2404-A, PSD-27275, situated in Katingawan (now San Isidro), Midsayap, Cotabato, containing an area of 40,006 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T- 4802 is subject of extrajudicial settlement and partition of intestate estate before Notary Public Teresita Carreon Llaban as per Doc. No. 196; Page No. 40; Book No.LVIII; Series of 2020.

MC: 24, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses CENON ANTICRISTO and AMADA CARDOZA, died on March 18, 1985 and May 4, 1975, both at Abaga, Libungan, Cotabato, left parcel of land Lot 2463-B-4, (LRC) PSD49866, containing an area of 5,000 sq. mts., more or less, situated in Bo. Abaga, Libungan, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T15349 is subject of deed of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale of a portion before Notary Public Noel A. Gretare, CPA as per Doc. No. 627; Page No. 22; Book No. XCIII; Series of 2022.

MC: Sept. 24, Oct. 1 & 8, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses RICARDO M. MARTIN and ZOILA S. MARTIN, who died on September 5, 2008 & June 2, 2004, respectively, both in Midsayap, Cotabato, left a parcel of land PLAN H-800325, situated in Bolocaoan, Libungan, Cotabato (now Bulucaon, Pigcawayan), containing an area of 147,895 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-7519 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Karen Cate I. Pinto as per Doc. No. 471; Page No. 96; Book No. XX; Series of 2022.

MC: Sept. 10, 17 & 24, 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 September 1-30, 2021 at 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main 4J Bldg. Corner Jose Lim Sr., and Don Roman Vilo St. Cotabato City. Auction sale will be on September 28, 2022.

Patalastas ng Subasta

Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de OroPawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV sa Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong September 1-30, 2021 sa alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:00 ng hapon sa Agencia de Oro - Jose Lim Branch, corner Jose Lim Sr, and Don Roman Vilo St., Cotabato City sa September 28, 2022.

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late JUSTINIANO MORIDO, who died on March 10, 1997 at Cainta, Rizal, left a parcel of land Lot 8, Psd-12010508, containing an area of 6,308 sq. mts., more or less, situated in Sinawingan, Midsayap (now estateextrajudicialNo.Cotabato,Libungan),coveredbyTCTT-75683issubjectofsettlementofwithsimultaneous

deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Noel A. Gretare, CPA as per Doc. No. 885; Page No. 73; Book No. XCIII; Series of 2022B.

MC: Sept. 17, 24 & Oct. 1, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses MANUEL B. ESCALON and EVELYN C. ESCALON, who died on December 21, 2003 and July 25, 2011, respectively, both in Midsayap, Cotabato, left a parcel of land ½ portion Lot 1, Pcs-12-00217, situated in Central, Midsayap, Cotabato, containing an area of 39,936 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. CT- 10031 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous waiver of rights (by way of sale) before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 274; Page No. 55; Book No. CCCVIII; Series of 2022.

MC: Sept. 10, 17 & 24, 2022

MC:Sept. 17 & 24, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late whoCALOBERANANGELINAPAULOdiedonJuly28,2017at

Binoligan, Kidapawan City, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot 36-A, Psd-12030961, containing an area of 38,685 sq.mts., more or less, situated in Amas, Kidapawan (now Kidapawan City), Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-102692 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Enrico Vicente E. Remitio as per Doc. No. 205; Page No. 41; Book No. 108; Series of 2022.

MC: Sept. 17, 24 & Oct. 1, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late PRUDENCIO NOBLE, who died on March 26, 2016 at Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, left a parcel of land Lot No. 1583-Pls-504, located at Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, containing an area of 14,732 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. (T-34938) T-5226 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with deed of donation before Notary Public Atty. Gibbon G. Heyres as per Doc. No. 426; Page No. 86; Book No. 454; Series of 2022.

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), a notice is hereby served to the public that Hamida Magaleb Datuan has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Norhan Magaleb Datuan who was born on April 13, 2013 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Waren S. Datuan and Hamida M. Magaleb.

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

(Sgd.) NORAH B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Sept. 17 & 24, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late sq.3,less14,3148472-A-2,mts,withofCotabatoatintestateJUBILAN,EXALTACIONwhodiedonApril30,2001NotreDameHospital,City,leftparcelslandLotNo.8472-A-1,anareaof10,000sq.moreorless;LotNo.withanareaofsq.mts.,moreorandLotNo.8472-A-withanareaof14,315mts.,moreorless,all under Subdivision Plan12-065118, covered by Original Certificate of Title No. P-52537, and situated in Manuangan, Pigcawayan, Cotabato are subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Bai Sandra U. Sandialan, S.H.C as per Doc. No. 149; Page No. 30; Book No.II; Series of 2022. MC: Sept. 10, 17 & 24, 2022

JENNIFER ONGYAO KILAYON DELOS REYES, Petitioner, -versusALSABRE HASSAN DELOS REYES, Civil Registrar of Taguig City and Philippine Statistics Office,

x--------------------------------------xRespondents.

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

In compliance with the Order of this Court, dated August 16, 2022, allowing herein petitioner to serve summons by publication on respondent, ALSABRE HASSAN DELOS REYES, in accordance with Rule 14, Sec. 14, of the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure, SUMMONS IS HEREBY DIRECTED TO RESPONDENT, ALSABRE HASSAN DELOS REYES, whose present address is unknown but whose last known address is in Mahaboula, Door 15, 15th Floor, Bldg. 108, Street 221, Block 2, State of Kuwait 4025.

Said respondent is hereby required to enter his appearance in the aboveentitled case and answer the petition, a copy of which can be secured from this Court within sixty (60) days from publication of this summons in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks. Failure on the part of the said respondent to appear within the time aforesaid, this Court will motu proprio hear the case exparte, upon which judgement may be

WITNESSrendered.

THE HONORABLE CASIM S. BAILAN, SR., AL-HADJ, Acting Presiding Judge of this Court, this 17th day of August, 2022 at Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipality, Maguindanao Province, Philippines.

(Sgd.) NASHRAIDA DILANGALEN-GUIAPAR Clerk of Court II

CONLUCK PAWNSHOP SK PENDATUN CONLUCK PAWNSHOP BONIFACIO & CONLUCK PAWNSHOP ORC BRANCH

COTABATO CITY ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sanla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula Agosto 2021 hanggang Setyembre 2021 . Ang Subasta ay sa Setyembre 30, 2022 sa ganap na ika 8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Sept. 17 & 24, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late PRUDENCIO NOBLE, who died on March 26, 2016 at Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, left a parcel of land Lot No. 1, Psd-12-000198, located at Pasandalan, Sultan Kudarat, containing an area of 15,000 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. (T-52947)

T-12164 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with deed of donation before Notary Public Atty. Gibbon G. Heyres as per Doc. No. 421; Page No. 85; Book No. 454; Series of 2022.

EXTRAJUDICIALSETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late JACINTO NOBLE, who died on November 25, 1977 in Pasay City, left a personal property situated in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, 27 shares of the Capital Stock of Salaman Institute issued on June 30, 1963 and 13 shares of the Capital Stock of Salaman Institute issued on April 30, 1974 are subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Rene de Manuel, Jr. as per Doc. No. 188; Page No. 38; Book No. 66; Series of 2021.

Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT 5th Shari’a Judicial District 2ND SHARI’A CIRCUIT COURT Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipality, (Official Station) Province of Maguindanao-9601

MC: Sept. 17, & Oct.

Eagle rescued in Lebak, another found dead in Maasim

Barangay Salangsang, turned over the big bird to Forester Teresa Bretan, leader of DENR’s “Lawin Patrol of Lebak.”

“The eagle was healthy so far, but a veterinarian is checking it before its release back to the wild,” Dipatuan said.

Dipatuan lauded the community of Salangsang, an upland and thickly forested village of Lebak, for rescuing the endangered bird.“We should recognize its crucial role in keeping the gentle balance of our forest ecosystem and its help in naturally regulating the species population and regeneration of our forest,” Dipatuan said.

Hunting, killing, illegal collection, possession, and trafficking of wildlife in the Philippines are punishable under Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.

On September 19, a critically-endangered Philippine Eagle was found dead along the shoreline of Purok Maguid in Barangay Daliao,AccordingMaasim.to the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), the female eagle is around three to four years old.

its rapid decomposition.

On Tuesday, the dead eagle was turned over to PEF through its representative, Senior Biologist Rowel Taraya.

Sison said the eagle would undergo necropsy and temporarily be under the custody of the PEF. Further information on the cause of its death will be released in the comingVicedays.Mayor Visitacion Nambatac, who was present during the handing over of the eagle, said that the presence of the Philippine eagle in Maasim shows that “the town still has a good However,ecosystem.”shesaid, “our forest and the eagles’ habitat have been disturbed by illegal logging activities and climate change.”

“Because of the forest activities by humans, the eagles are forced to proceed to

the shoreline to look for food,” Nambatac said.

In a report Thursday, the DENR-12 said that based on the necropsy conducted by the PEF, the cause of death of the Philippine eagle found along the shoreline of Maasim, Sarangani Province is drowning.

“Its muscular and skeletal structure are good and intact but the state of its decomposition made it difficult to confirm whether the bird had any illness or disease when it was alive. The most probable cause of death though is drowning,” according to the PEF official website.

The PEF also observed in the eagle’s X-ray an air gun pellet lodged inside its left thigh but observed no open wounds that indicates that the shooting occurred some time ago since the wound has already healed.

Edwin O. Fernandez

The rescue of a Philippine hawkeagle (Nisaetus philippensis) in Barangay Salangsang came a day after environmentalists discovered a dead Philippine Eagle in Barangay Daliao, Maasim, Sarangani province.

Iskak Dipatuan, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) of Kalamansig, said a resident found the eagle at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Salangsang and turned it over to his office.

Benjamin Changco Sr., chairperson of

Maasim Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Alejandra Sison said the lifeless carcass of the eagle was found along the coastline of Barangay Daliao at about 9:30 a.m. by a municipal government employee who alerted the village officials.

It was believed the eagle was dead for some four to five hours before it was discovered.“Theeagle has no bullet wound or any injury but we noticed the water is flowing out of his mouth,” Sison said.

Veterinarian Roy Mejorada suggested having the eagle covered with paper, put in a plastic bag, and placed in the freezer to avoid

DESPITE the relatively high vaccine rate in the Philippines, many residents of geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas remain unprotected against COVID-19.Inthe Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), just about 51 percent of the target population have been vaccinated, according to the latest data from the Department of Health.

Experts have said that if we are going to end this pandemic and prepare for the next one, it’s vital that even those living in remote areas are given access to COVID-19 vaccines and other essential health

Withservices.thisin mind, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have partnered with the local governments of Maguindanao and Cotabato City to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines reach residents of far-flung villages and areas of armed conflict.

The partnership was formalized on 14 and 15 September through the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the ICRC and the Office of Health Services -Cotabato City and the Integrated Provincial Health Office –Maguindanao.Throughthis initiative, the ICRC will provide assistance in addressing vaccine misinformation while beefing up Cotabato and Maguindanao’s mobile vaccination

OFFICIALS of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Cotabato City medical practitioners mourn the untimely passing of a dedicated physician who unselfishly served the region at the height of the pandemic in 2020-2021.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Kagi Murad” Ebrahim, in a statement, said Dr. Amirel Usman, director general of BARMM Ministry of Health (MOH), was best remembered for risking his own life to protect the people of BARMM against COVID-19.

Dr. Usman passed away on Sept. 17 in his home in Cotabato City from complications of a medical ailment.

teams.The ICRC will also donate items and consumables such as syringes, personal protective equipment, facemasks, surgical gloves, and basic medical equipment.

“The pandemic is far from over, especially in BARMM. This partnership with the local governments of Maguindanao and Cotabato City is a continuation of the support that we provided to authorities and the vulnerable communities of Mindanao since the pandemic started. We hope that through this partnership, residents who have been left behind will be protected from COVID-19,” Hiro Yabusaki, head of ICRC Cotabato Subdelegation, said.

The ICRC will also support the local governments of Zamboanga, Isabela City, Sulu, Caraga region, Lanao del Norte, and Bukidnon.Inthe next few weeks, the ICRC and the local health authorities will facilitate the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in remote areas, in line with the government’s health campaign.

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance, regardless of their political affiliation. Baipulo Sultan/ICRCCotabato

“His leadership was an important part of our region’s ability to sustain low transmission rate and to assure that communities across the BARMM are vaccinated,” Chief Minister Ebrahim said of Dr. Usman who also served as acting Health minister.

“We will be forever grateful for Dr. Usman’s courage of leading the Bangsamoro Government’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as OIC of MOH,” Chief Minister Murad

Medicalsaid.

practitioners and health frontliners remember Dr. Usman for his passion for public health and serving those in need.

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is setting up another emergency response base in Basilan, this time on a 1,000-square meter seaside area donated by the Lamitan City government.ThePCG has an operation center in Isabela City, about 28 kilometers away, one of two cities in Basilan that also has 11 municipalities.Inseparate statements Wednesday, the PCG offices in the cities of Zamboanga and Isabela said Coast Guard officials were elated with the lot donation, sealed with a document signed on September 15 by Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay and Captain Rejard Marfe.

Marfe is a PCG district commander in Mindanao. He and Furigay affixed their signatures to the document during a simple rite at the mayor's office in Lamitan City.

Furigay said the 1,000-square-meter lot they donated to PCG, located in Barangay Kulaybato in Lamitan City, is owned by their local government unit.

He said they are ready to help the PCG put up a station in the area too.

“Basilan is an island and the setting up of a new Coast Guard station in Lamitan City is important,” Furigay said in a statement emailed early on to different media outfits.

Marfe said they are thankful to the Lamitan City LGU for the donation.

The crafting of the deed of donation was preceded by the grant by the central office of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to the Lamitan City mayor’s office of a plaque of appreciation detailing PDEA’s gratitude for the support of local officials to its antinarcotics campaign in barangays under their jurisdiction.Theplaque was personally turned over to Furigay, at the city hall, by the most senior PDEA officer in Basilan, Charishmon Labado.

The certificate of appreciation on the plaque was signed by PDEA Director General Wilkins Villanueva. John Felix Unson

11 long wanted robbers in Basilan arrested CAMP SK MaguindanaoPENDATUN,

— The police arrested Sunday, September 18, in Lantawan, Basilan 11 persons wanted for a P1.3 million heist in 2016.

Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) regional director, told reporters the suspects were cornered in Barangay Tairan in Lantawan, Basilan by combined policemen and soldiers, acting on tips by local officials.

The 11 suspects - Sarih Tandih Alam, Jalil Tandih Alam, Yaser Muharal Alam, Yakob Mohammad Alam, Atim Ladja Allani, Abdulhan Ladja Allani, Al Ladja Allani, Nasser Allama Jaafar, Sonny Boy Alam, Arasad, Omar Mukaddam and Cesar Ladja Pulalonare now locked together in a detention facility of the Lantawan Municipal Police Station.They were wanted for having robbed at gunpoint occupants of a house in Barangay Tairan P9

A Philippine hawk-eagle was rescued Tuesday by residents of an upland village in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, and turned the big bird over to environment officials. passing of Dr. vaccines to reach remote, conflict-affected areas in Maguindanao

Dr. Usman worked hard so that the people of the Iranun part of Maguindanao or those living in the towns of Matanog, Barira, Buldon and Parang, also known as Iranun area, would no longer travel to Cotabato City for medical services with the establishment of Iranun District Hospital in Parang.

“Iranun District Hospital the legacy of Dr. Usman to the Bangsamoro people,” Iranun district hospital workers said in a statement.TheCotabato Regional and Medical Center (CRMC) management and employees were also surprised at the news on DR. Usman’s demise.

Physicians, nurses and other health frontliners thanked Dr. Usman “for your incomparable commitment to work and exemplary leadership qualities. Thank you for putting in your maximum efforts in delivering stupendous support to CRMC,” said CRMC community where Dr. Usman also served in the past.

Dr. Allen Minalang, Lanao del Sur provincial health officer, was saddened by the untimely demise of a hardworking medical servant.“Too soon for a young physician, health manager and a good man like him,” he said of Dr. Usman. Edwin O. Fernandez

Coast Guard gets free lot for Basilan station

Photo courtesy of CENRO Kalamansig

CAPTURED, FREED. This healthy Philippine hawk-eagle, rescued in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, turned over to DENR and eventually sent back to the wild.

Photo courtesy of CENRO Kiamba QRT

UNLUCKY EAGLE. Environment workers in Sarangani collect vital data from the remains of a Philippine eagle found dead along the coast of Barangay Daliao, Maasim, Sarangani.