The Mindanao Cross | October 16, 2021

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Vol. LXXIII| No. 36| Cotabato City | Saturday, October 16, 2021 |8 Pages | P10.00

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MOH-BARMM gets 32 new “healthcare warriors”

CHURCH / P4

John Paul I to be beatified after miracle approved by Pope Francis

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8 more BIFF members surrender

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

2 SOLDIERS, COP FACE CHARGES FOR GUNRUNNING

John Felix Unson THE police is keen on prosecuting the five gunrunners, among them a policeman and two soldiers, caught in the act selling government firearms Tuesday in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

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70 FIYO BAGI…MEUYAG! MABUHAY. Members of Teduray Indigenous Peoples in South Upi, Maguidnanao perform traditional dance as the Oblates of Mary Immaculate-Indigenous Peoples Ministry (OMI-IPM) joined them in celebrating the 44th Indigenous Peoples’ Sunday on October 10. Photo courtesy of Fr. Juram John Sacil, OMI

Rules awaited but no fees in BARMM police training THE Bangsamoro regional government has clarified that police recruitment had yet to start for members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to join the uniformed service of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Mohaguer Iqbal, co-chairman

of Inter-Government Relations Body (IGRB), said the bilateral mechanism mandated by the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) had yet to finish the corresponding guidelines for the recruitment of qualified MILF AND MNLF members into the PNP uniformed service.

Iqbal, the Bangsamoro

Palace saves Pigcawayan mayor

Edwin O. Fernandez PIGCAWAYAN, North order is very clear that Cotabato – Mayor Jean Roquero is still the mayor of Dino Roquero has been Pigcawayan town,” he said.

A part of the copy of saved after Malacañang has turned around a preventive the Malacañang order read: suspension order against “The resolutions dated 18 him issued by the North August 2020 and 13 October Cotabato Sangguniang 2020 of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cotabato Panlalawigan (SP).

Lawyer Noel Gretare, are hereby reversed and counsel for Mayor Roquero, set aside.”

The decision dated said Wednesday his client will continue to function as Aug. 18, 2021, was signed

by Executive the town’s chief executive. “ T h e M a l a c a ñ a n g Secretary Salvador

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Nash B. Maulana Minister of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE), and a concurrent member of the BARMM Parliament, clarified that no recruitment fees are involved in the process of enlisting members into police training provided under the BOL. He made this remark

apparently in response to concerns raised on social media that some unscrupulous individuals purportedly took advantage of news about former combatants’ proposed integration into the PNP uniformed services.

Iqbal co-chairs the IGRB for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

Kidapawan driver still hoping to become gov

Edwin O. Fernandez KIDAPAWAN CITY – He did not make it the last five local elections. But tricycle driver Manuel Adajar was convinced he can make it this time.

Adajar, who has been driving passenger motorcycle in this city as source of livelihood, filed his certificate of candidacy at about 4 p.m. on Friday, October 8.

On Tuesday, Adajar declared his chances of winning is higher because the other candidates are fighting each other.

Also seeking the provincial top post are reelectionist Gov. Nancy Catamco and Vice Gov. Emmylou Mendoza.

Adajar admitted he was in an uphill battle against political bigwigs in the province since he has no money, no machinery and no campaign

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John Felix Unson TEN enlisted members of The 6th ID is also the Army’s 6th Infantry known as the Army’s Division were promoted “Kampilan” Division. a rank higher each Kampilan is a Wednesday in recognition centuries-old Moro bladed of their efficiency in public weapon that warriors had service. used in defense of religion The event was one of and lands from Spanish and the highlights of this week’s American conquests. commemoration of the 34th Major Gen. Juvymax anniversary of 6th ID, being Uy, commander of 6th ID, done without traditional led Wednesday’s donning gatherings in compliance of higher ranks to the 10 with state COVID-19 enlisted personnel containment measures. of the division in

October is Local Government Month

Photo courtesy of Gerald M. Cagayan

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10 efficient Kampilan soldiers promoted

DID YOU KNOW?

NEEDS ATTENTION. Its election season and commuters and netizens publicize this image in Kibleg, South Upi, Maguindanao, hoping it catches politicians’ attention.

Road accidents regularly occur here, it must be repaired ASAP to save lives, they say.

(BARMM) with Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez for the national government.

Of the six IGRB’s, the one of the Philippine Congress-Bangsamoro Parliament Forum, in-charge of crafting policies, is likely to take up the issue, pursuant to Article VI Section 3 of Republic Act 11054, the Bangsamoro

October and the second week of this month are declared Local Government Month and Local Government Week under Proclamation No. 63, which was signed Oct. 2, 1992, by then President Fidel Ramos.

The proclamation recognizes the contribution of local government units in nation-building. Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991 was signed into law on Oct. 10, 1991.

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October 16, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

MOH-BARMM gets 32 new “healthcare warriors”

THE Ministry of Health (MOH) hired 25 nurses and 7 support staff for its regional office to boost its current healthcare warriors battling the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Monday, October 11, the 32 new permanent employees took their oath of office before MOH Minister Dr. Bashary Latiph during a ceremony held in this city.

Latiph encouraged the newly hired frontliners to live up to being the modern day heroes tag in this time of health crisis.

“We must come up with innovative ways to address the problems that arises with the onslaught of this virus,” he said.

“This is a challenge for all of you,

a responsibility. As public servants, we must put first the welfare of our people above anything else.

We must know how to empathize for better delivery of our services,” Latiph further said.

Meanwhile, Bangsamoro Government Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim led the employees in taking the ‘oath of moral governance,’ vowing to reject graft and corruption.

“This is because we want na hindi lamang tayo answerable to

the government itself but we are also answerable to Allah (SWT),” Ebrahim said.

“We are proud to welcome you all,” Ebrahim told the employees, “I hope that you find joy in the thought that this will not just be a career development for all of you but a vocation and service to our people.”

Ending his speech, Ebrahim said the regional government is “forever committed in building better healthcare services for the Bangsamoro.” BIO-BARMM

MP ‘Ongpin’ mulls dialysis centers

A MEMBER of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority has sponsored

a resolution seeking to establish seven dialysis centers for five provinces, this city, and the special geographic area (SGA), comprising the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

M e m b e r o f Parliament Narciso “Ongpin” Yu Ekey, who represents the socioeconomic sector in the BTA, said a number of

BARMM constituents are indigent renal patients either undergoing dialysis or medically recommended for the costly periodic procedure.

The businessmanlawmaker said developing and establishing dialysis centers will effectively address the state of renal disease treatment in BARMM. He said under the resolution he filed last

10 efficient Kampilan soldiers promoted...from P1 Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

The ten soldiers, Technical Sergeants Lowell Telloro and Vidal Fenita got master sergeant ranks, Staff Sergeants Alejandro Villasor and Rey Tubac as technical sergeants, Sergeants Rose Mae Bulahan and Denice Martin as staff sergeants,

Corporals Jomar Pacong and Jhona Pardilla as sergeants and Privates 1st Class April Parreño and Jephone Bayeta, are involved peace-building activities.

“They were promoted based on their good performance,” Uy, also commander of the anti-terror Task Force Central, told reporters

Kidapawan driver still...from P1

propaganda except homemade campaign materials.

He said he ran and lost in the past five local elections - the 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019. Adajar used empty sacks as his propaganda materials.

He will use the same campaign materials.

“Determination to serve, vision for better North Cotabato are my only offers to our people,” he said in the vernacular during DXND Radio interview.

His campaign promises include an end to insurgency, improve buying price of rubber, rice and corn and an end to importation of agricultural products.

“Now is the time that farmers will lead the province,” he declared.

He claimed he was sad many provincial leaders failed to address farmers’ problems on prices of their produce.

Adajar is running as independent candidate.

C. Medialdea.

Earlier, the provincial board, chaired by North Cotabato Vice Gov. Emmylou Mendoza, issued a preventive suspension order against Roquero while the administrative case against him is pending before the board.

The case stemmed from administrative charges filed by seven local vendors against Roquero before the provincial board for revoking Municipal Executive Order No. 42 issued by his predecessor granting rights

to stall applicants under the town’s economic enterprise code.

Gretare said Roquero found irregularities in the granting of rights to manage stalls beside the municipal gymnasium so he ordered to revoke the EO issued by the previous town administration.

The mayor also found out that some of the grantees were related to the former town mayor.

On August 18, 2020, the provincial board issued a preventive suspension

week, a dialysis center will be established each in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao Sur and Marawi City, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and in Cotabato City, as well as one for the BARMM SGA made up of 63 barangays of Cotabato Province.

The businessman said from his day-today person-toperson engagement

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Thursday.

Uy said 6th ID’s 34th anniversary is being celebrated only by soldiers in the camp, a turnaround from the usual series of large gatherings of guests and personnel from different battalions and brigades from across central Mindanao for different activities during the yearly seven-day festivity.

Rules awaited but no fees...from P1 Organic Law (BOL).

Iqbal said the technical working group (TWG) of the Philippine CongressBangsamoro Parliament Forum is tasked to draft the recruitment guidelines, based on standards defined

by Congress under RA 11054.

He reiterated that collecting money for application or in exchange for offering police training slots in the name of the peace agreement shall “not be allowed and is considered

an illegal activity.”

Iqbal said that without such guidelines there would be no basis for acceptance of MILF and MNLF applying for service entry into the PNP. The Bangsamoro Education chief said the draft guidelines of procedure of implementing this aspect of the Annexes to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) has not yet been finalized by the TWG and is still being awaited by the IGRB.

against Roquero who quickly filed a motion for reconsideration but was denied outright.

With this, Roquero filed a petition before Malacañang to reverse the SP order.

“Malacañang found no basis for SP to place the mayor under preventive suspension and reversed the order,” Gretare said, adding that Roquero continues to serve as town mayor.

Under the local government code, a local elected official can only be

placed under preventive suspension if the evidence of guilt is strong or has the possibility that he will influence the investigation.

North Cotabato Gov. Nancy Catamco welcomed and favored the decision of the Office of the President on rejecting the SP resolution putting Roquero under preventive suspension.

The administrative case against Roquero continues before the provincial board and the mayor, through his lawyer, has filed a motion for dismissal of the charges.

Palace saves Pigcawayan mayor...from P1

2 soldiers, cop face charges for gunrunning...from P1 ELIVER Jay Angot Soverano, Gleen Aragones Sangyao, Reynaldo Dechavez Dichosa, Morjan Tumindig and Adams Tumindig are now clamped down in a detention facility of the Datu Odin Sinsuat municipal police.

“Cases against them are now being prepared,” Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region told Mindanao Cross Thursday.

Probers have confirmed that Soverano is a policeman under the Police Crime Laboratory-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region while his two accomplices, Sangyao and Dichosa

are both sergeants in the Philippine Army.

Ugale said the group was entrapped in Barangay Tamontaka, Datu Odin Sinsuat by personnel of the municipal police led by Lt. Col. Romel Dela Vega and other units under the Maguindanao provincial police office.

The sting that resulted in the arrest of the five suspects was laid with the help of intelligence agents from the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and local leaders aware of their gunrunning activities.

Seized from the suspects were three 5.56 caliber assault rifles, an M4 Carbine, two .45 caliber pistols,

two Glock 9 millimeter pistols and a Zigana PX-9 pistol, all marked “government property,” identical with service firearms of soldiers and police personnel.

“The Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police will build a strong case against them,” Ugale said Wednesday.

Ugale said credit for the arrest of Soverano, Sangyao, Dichosa and the Tumindigs, both residents of Barangay Tamontaka, should go to informants privy to their clandestine selling of government firearms.

Investigators placed at no less than P600,000 the value of the firearms confiscated from them.

Republic of the Philippines Regional Trial Court 12th Judicial Region BRANCH 13 Cotabato City SPECIAL PROCEEDING CASE NO. 2021-1520 PETITION FOR THE CORRECTION OF ENTRY IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH ABDUL KAMSA ADAM,

Petitioner

versus THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR FOR DATU ODIN SINSUAT, MAGUINDANAO, MONAWARA KAMSA ADAM, ROSIENDA KAMSA ADAM, DONG KAMSA ADAM, BAIMASLA KAMSA ADAM, RAMIL KAMSA ADAM, BONG KAMSA ADAM and ABRAHAM KAMSA ADAM,

Respondents. x----------------------------------------------x ORDER A verified petition has been filed with this Court by the Petitioner through counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an Order be issued directing the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao to make the necessary corrections in the Certificate of Live Birth of ABDUL KAMSA ADAM. The petition avers the following: 1. Petitioner is of legal age, Filipino, married and a resident of Sapalan, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao and may be served with such issuances and submissions relative to the instant case in the business office of his counsel; 2.All affected parties are impleaded as indispensable parties in the petition citing their addresses where they may be served with summons and notice of this court; 3.During their marriage, the spouses Kinding Mustapha and Norma Laban Kamsa (spouses Adam) begot eight (8) children as mentioned in the petition in the order of their birth as evidenced by their Certificates of Live Birth marked as Anneses “A-E”; 4.Petitioner’s birth was, however, not registered with the local civil registry until sometime later when petitioner sought to apply to work abroad where he was required by the recruitment agency to submit his certificate of live birth sometime in 2010; 5.Unable to present his certificate of live birth, the recruitment agency helped petitioner to obtain one and eventually he was able to secure his Certificate of Live Birth with Registry No. 2010-9235 but the date of birth as stated therein was erroneously entered as “12 October 1987” instead of “12 October 1995” which is the true and correct date of birth; 6.As far as he remembers, petitioner has been stating in his official records that he was born on October 12, 1995 and not October 12, 1987 as can be seen from his Palagiang Talaan sa Mababang Paaralan issued by the Department of EducationAutonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao where it shows that his “Petsa ng Kapanganakan” is on “10-12-95”; 7.In the same vein, petitioner has likewise stated in his college records that his date of birth is October 12, 1995 and not on October 12, 1987 as shown in his Official Transcript of Records issued by Headstart College of Cotabato City where it shows that his “Birth Date” is on “October 12, 1995”; 8.Further, petitioner has also stated in his voter’s registration that his date of birth is October 12, 1995 and not October 12, 1987 as shown by a “Voter’s Certification issued by the Commission on Elections where it is shows that his “Date of birth: is on 10/12/1995”; 9.For purposes of this petition, petitioner will present himself as witness as well as his mother, Norma Laban Kamsa, to prove that his true and correct date of birth is October 12, 1995 and not October 12, 1987. The Judicial Affidavits of said witnesses are appended hereto to form an integral part of this petition.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, it is hereby Ordered that the said petition be set for hearing before this Court on November 3, 2021 at 1:30 in the afternoon, at which place, date, time, all interested parties are required to appear and show cause, if they have any, why the petition should not be granted.

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

SO ORDERED. GIVEN this 14th day of September 2021, Cotabato City, Philippines.

(Sgd.) ANNABELLE D.P. PIANG Acting Presiding Judge (Per SC Admin Order No. 220-2018 dated November 7, 2018) MC: Oct. 16, 23 & 30, 2021

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

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular Guidelines in implementation of Administrative Order No. 1, series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Samsia Etem Otto has filed with this office, a petition for correction of sex from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth of Sahad Etem Otto bearing registry No. 2016-1058 registered at the Local Civil Registrar of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and whose parents are Salahudin Medag Otto and Any person adversely Samsia Suwaib Etem. affected by said petition may Any person adversely file his written opposition affected by said petition may file with this office not later than his written opposition with this office October 12, 2021. not later than October 20, 2021.

(Sgd.) KARIM O. OMAR, MPA (Sgd.) LESAIDA O. SABAN Municipal Civil Registrar Municipal Civil Registrar

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/R.A. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Marwan D. Ali has filed with this office, a petition for change of date of birth from April 19, 1997 to April 17, 1997 in the birth certificate of Marwan Dimasangkay Ali who was born on April 19, 1997 at Poblacion 2, Parang, Maguindanao and whose parents are Mustapha Raguit Ali and Maisara Abdul Dimasangkay.

MC: Oct. 16 & 23, 2021

MC: Oct. 16 & 23, 2021

October 16, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

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On the occasion of the Maulid-unNabi, I, together with our City Officials and the rest of the city government of Cotabato, join our Muslim Brothers and Sisters in commemorating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

As we observe this day, let us use this opportunity to contemplate on the decisions we make for it will greatly affect our future. Let us take a firm stand on these decisions, and always think of the greater good and the good of all Cotabatenos. May we also serve as beacon of hope to bring forth justice and harmony in our beloved land.

At the same time, let us live up with the values of being Muslims and practice honesty, accountability, and responsibility. May we always be guided by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on integrity and sincerity.

Together, as one Cotabato City, may we always remain steadfast and headstrong in facing the adversities of life and in facing all our endeavours to fully attain our vision and mission of making our City a better community. Finally, let us be thankful to the Almighty Allah (S.W.T) for all the blessings He has given us.

May the Almighty continue to bless us most especially during these trying times.

Sigay Ka Cotabato City!

ATTY. FRANCES CYNTHIA J. GUIANI–SAYADI City Mayor

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October 16, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

John Paul I to be beatified after miracle approved by Pope Francis VATICAN— Pope Francis has recognized a miracle obtained through the intercession of his predecessor Venerable John Paul I, who will now be declared “blessed.”

Often called “the smiling pope,” John Paul I died unexpectedly on Sept. 28, 1978, after just 33 days in office. A priority of his short pontificate was carrying forward the work of the Second Vatican Council.

But even before he was elected pope, Albino Luciani was known for his humility, his emphasis on spiritual poverty, and his dedication to teaching the faith in an understandable manner.

Pope Francis gave his approval on Oct. 13 for the cause of beatification of John Paul I to move forward, along with the causes of six other people on the path to sainthood.

John Paul I was declared Venerable

by Pope Francis in 2017.

According to a report this week from Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, John Paul I may be beatified before Easter.

Though beatification ceremonies usually take place in the country most associated with the life of the new blessed, as a pope, John Paul I is likely to be beatified at the Vatican by Pope Francis.

The miracle attributed to John Paul I’s intercession is the 2011 healing of a girl in the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, Argentina, from a severe form of encephalopathy, a disease affecting

the brain.

Last year, Pope Francis instituted a Vatican foundation to promote the thought and teachings of Venerable John Paul I. In an article in L’Osservatore Romano at the time, Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin wrote that “Pope John Paul I was and remains a reference point in the history of the universal Church, the importance of which — as St. John Paul II pointed out — is inversely proportional to the duration of his very short pontificate.”

In 2008, on the 30th anniversary of John Paul I’s death, Benedict XVI reflected on St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, when the apostle writes: “Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves.”

Benedict said this biblical text brought to mind John Paul I, who chose the same episcopal motto as St. Charles Borromeo, “Humilitas.”

John Paul I’s simplicity, according to Benedict, “was a means of solid and fruitful instruction, which, thanks to the gift of an excellent memory and vast culture, was enriched by numerous citations of Church and secular authors.” Hannah Brockhaus/

Catholic News Agency

Bishop Valentin Dimoc of Bontoc-Lagawe celebrates Mass to mark this year’s Indigenous Peoples’ Sunday at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Sagada, Mountain Province, Oct. 10.

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Photo courtesy of CBCPNews

Pope John Paul I.

Bishop appeals to protect IPs, environment from Kaliwa Dam project A church official marked this year’s Indigenous Peoples’ Sunday by urging Filipinos to protect the IPs and the environment from the “threats” posed by the China-funded Kaliwa Dam project.

Bishop Valentin Dimoc, head of the bishops’ Commission on Indigenous Peoples, said that the P12.2 billion project “threatens the integrity and the way of life” of the DumagatRemontado tribes.

“So they need to be protected because their lives are being threatened by this kind of project,” said Dimoc, who is also the Apostolic Vicar of

t was the Greek philosopher even heroic activity to serve Aristotle who said that the people. man by nature is a political The art and practice of animal. By this he meant politics is such that those who that the human species engage in it, be they neophytes naturally tend toward social or veterans have to do so with organization. He based his the innocence of doves and the political observation on his wisdom of serpents. To gain Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC experience of the polis, or the influence and power, one has to tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com Greek city states, such as negotiate, compromise, make Athens, Sparta, and Macedonia, hence the term politics. accommodations, build coalitions, establish and drop Aristotle has the idea that everything in nature exists for a alliances. The rule of Machiavelli seems to dominate, do purpose. For human beings, the purpose of living is to lead everything to win. The end justifies the means. The means the “good life “ or “well-being”. One can only be happy if can lead to political murders, character assassinations, he pursues virtue such as justice, goodness, and beauty. It sowing fear and threats directed not just at candidates but is the “polis” that enables human beings to pursue virtue. the voting citizenry as well.

The structures of the state such as leadership, laws, and This brings us to the gospel story of this Sunday. The customs protects the property and liberty of its citizens so apostles, James and John, who were the sons of Zebedee that they can live securely and happily. Aristotle then goes wanted power for themselves, over and above the other on to describe the different ways of government: rule by apostles. They were playing politics. They asked Jesus, one person, rule by a few, and rule by the many. Aristotle “Grant us to sit one at your right and one at your left when proposed the benefits of the rule of the many and the you come in glory” (Mk. 10:37). They were jockeying for participation of the citizens in the affairs of governance, positions, and even their mother would ask for the same which we now know as democracy. favor for her sons. Jesus was by now becoming a popular We cannot escape politics. In the history of humankind, figure and might well be the awaited Messiah. He was different cultures tried different forms of governing perceived popularly as one who would be establishing themselves to achieve their social goals. History showed a Jewish political kingdom, just like that of David his us tyrants, kings, republicans, dictators, freedom fighters, ancestor. To sit at the right or the left hand means to be parliamentarians, liberal democrats, and lately the rise close to the ruler and to be an adviser to the king. This of populist leaders. Politics asks the questions who should angered the other apostles, rightly so, some of them have rule and what is the basis for their claim of legitimacy. For similar ambitions. Jesus had to correct their self-serving example, in some societies, power is handed over within concept of the use of power and authority. He categorically the family circle. The rule of succession says only those told them, “whoever would be great among you must be who belong to the ruling families can govern. That may be your servant, and whoever would be first among you shall the reason why despite our claim of democratic process, make himself slave of all. Think of the Son of Man who certain families are fixtures in Philippine politics. Family has not come to be served but to serve and to give his life dynasties are multiplying. Political power is the way to as a ransom of many” (Mk. 10:45). The words of Jesus can protect family interests, especially in terms of wealth. apply to all who seek political office these days. Let us pray Politics can be a bane that becomes a hindrance in the for those who seek public office and for the citizenry who pursuit of the common good, or it can be a boon, a noble and support them. MC

Politics

REFLECTIONS

L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO

Bontoc-Lagawe.

The prelate made the statement in his homily during Mass at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Sagada, a town in Mountain Province.

The Commission on Audit has earlier flagged the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System for implementing the project without proof compliance of environmental prerequisites and submission of necessary permits.

The IP Sunday concluded the Philippine Church’s observance this year of the Season of Creation, which started September 1.

Dimoc pointed out that the celebration is also an invitation for the people to promote the protection and recognition of rights of indigenous peoples.

He said that when people respect the rights of IPs, they are also protecting the integrity of the environment.

“We protect the IPs, we protect the integrity of the environment. We exert effort to protect nature, we also protect the IPs,” the bishop added.

“This is what it means to celebrate the Season of Creation and conclude it with the IP Sunday,” he also said. CBCPNews

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

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Readings:

Isaiah 53.10-11; Hebrews 4.14-16; Mark 10.35-45 Indeed, “whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.” But if we are given the choice, I think most of us would surely choose to be masters rather than servants.

Right. All of us wants to be the greatest, the fastest, the wealthiest, the prettiest that often we forget the place of God in our lives because we are so focused on serving ourselves rather than God and others.

Let us be servants with one another. By serving others, we will find true greatness and happiness.

Prayer: Lord, help me seek to serve rather than be served. Amen.

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THE MINDANAO CROSS

October 16, 2021 EDITORIAL

On political dynasties

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t the end of the week long filing of Certificates of Candidacy for the May 2022 elections, we see the trend of candidates still leaning towards the perpetuation of family political dynasties. This stood out as a feature of Philippine politics not only at present but can be traced in history. Is this a carryover of the pre historic monarchial system in the Philippines? Many families look at politics as the only means that they can extend their hold on power in many areas in the country, especially in Mindanao.

What are political dynasties? ‘Political dynasties’ generally refer to traditional political families or the practices by these political families of monopolizing political power and public offices from generation to generation and treating the public elective office almost as their personal property.

During the 2013 Philippine mid-term national elections, two political scientists made a study – Professors Teresa and Eduardo Tadem of UP – on the rule of political dynasties in the country.

It showed that all 80 provinces have political families and 74% of the members of the House of Representatives come from political families.

It may be correct to say that the candidates are only taking advantage of the ability among the electorate to remember distinctly familiar names when they cast their votes. So having family names such as Marcos in Ilocos, or Garcia in Cebu, or Sinsuat and Mangundadatu in Maguindanao mean one has hurdled part of the name retention among the voters.

The paper of the Tadems pointed out that political dynasties have some disadvantage because the study areas covered tend to have the following characteristics: A. The perpetuation of poverty and underdevelopment.

B. The propagation of political and socioeconomic inequality.

C. The continuing prevalence of massive corruption.

Could this be a reason for the backwardness of many areas in Mindanao? Of course, some of its progress are attributed to the leadership, who belong to political dynasties.

For sure, the candidates who filed their candidacy especially in the BARMM region belong to these political dynasties. It even sounds confusing because they carry the same family name.

There are so many attempts to change the flow using constitutional mandates or strengthening civil society role in politics, (such as party list representations), but some leaders are just addicted to politics that they form their own party list. I sympathize with COMELEC official Guanzon who appealed to the candidates to stop making a mockery of the electoral system. If they feel they are not qualified or does not have the financial ability, to please stay away from the process. Many FB followers hoped that many candidates should follow the lead of Willie Revillame who declared that he will not attempt to enter politics because he fears that he might win, and if he does, what will he do in the senate? Hopefully, some of those candidates will follow his example, and not be carried away just to continue the political dynasty. MC +

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John M. Unson Ferdinandh B. Cabrera Charlie C. Señase Nash B. Maulana

NORTH / SOUTH COTABATO CORRESPONDENTS

Williamor Magbanua, Romer “Bong” Sarmiento, Roel Osano, Orlando Dinoy & Drema Quitayen Bravo CARTOONIST Lourd Jim Diazon Member: PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

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

R

epublic Act 7941, or the “Party-List System Act,” signed into law by then President Fidel V. Ramos on March 3, 1995, had a noble intention - to “enable Filipino citizens belonging to the marginalized and underrepresented sectors, organizations and parties, and who lack well-defined political constituencies but who could contribute to the formulation and enactment of appropriate legislation that will benefit the nation as a whole, to become members of the House of Representatives.”

These “marginalized and underrepresented sectors” were specifically identified by RA 7941 as labor, peasant, fisherfolk, urban poor, indigenous cultural communities, elderly, handicapped, women, youth, veterans, overseas workers, and professionals. The law provides that twenty percent of the 260 seats in the House of Representatives are reserved for partylist. Every 2% of total party-list votes cast gets a seat in the House, with each party allowed a maximum of three seats.

It was apparently meant to “give more in law to those who have less in life.”

Since the first party-list election in May 1998, the party-list system has enabled marginalized and underrepresented sectors to have a voice in the House of Representatives as intended by RA 7941. But the system has likewise become a way for the moneyed and privileged to further strengthen their hold on power. Mainstream politicians have managed to take advantage of the party-list law to put more members of their families in Congress. Certain business interests have likewise infiltrated the party-list system, more so after the Supreme Court ruled in 2013 that partylist groups need not represent a marginalized and underrepresented sector. This ruling abandoned the spirit of the law that was meant to provide the marginalized a voice in Congress and instead gave politicians and their families and allies the means to perpetuate themselves in power, said Etta Rosales, one of the pioneer lawmakers in the party-list system and who served as Akbayan’s representative from 1998 to 2007. “The SC ruling legitimized what political dynasts were already doing,” said Rosales. “It opened the floodgates to political families. So now you have several hundreds of families vying for positions through the party-list system.”

The dominance of such party-list groups whose loyalties lie with political dynasties, the ruling elite,

I

T’S a bit surprising, going over the latest PewResearch Center’s Survey on perceived “conflicts among people practicing different religions” in the United States.

I was privileged to have attended an academic briefing at the PewResearch Center in Washington D.C. on few developments, some 10 years after 9/11.

There was this story about bookstore shelves running out of books on Islam because of “increasing curiosity on Islam among young people.” Indeed, I was lucky those days that Amina Rasul was able to bring me home a copy of “The Crisis of Islam” By Lewis. On another side, there was a growing sympathy to bigoted or prejudiced American Muslims who had “nowhere to run to but the press,” owing to those stories of an obtaining situation resulting from varying social, political and institutional reactions in the aftermath of 9/11.

I heard the story first-hand from the president of the Muslim Cab Drivers Association in New York (his name escapes me) about authorities becoming wary on just about every Muslim act.

Now it’s different. Based on the results of the latest Survey by the PewResearch Center, about 49 percent of community respondents believe there are big conflicts among people following different religions in a society.

I have been to an independent coverage of the “Faces of Islam in the East Cost” in the auspices of the Foreign Press Center (FPC) of the Department of State.

The situation went back to normal sooner than expected from September 2001 onwards. I met Ms. Betty Shabazz, the widow of Malcolm Little (more popularly known as “Malcolm X”) at the Headquarter of the Nation of Islam (NOI) in New York in the Autumn of 2011. This had been the place where celebrities like heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali, and NBA superstar Kareem Abduljabbar embraced Islam during the heights of their sports career in the 1960s.

Much more surprising was the Shoulder-to-Shoulder Movement in which followers of the three Abrahamic Religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) endeavored on long-road state-to-state travel to preach sympathy as well as justice and equity for U.S. Muslims, including a common voice seeking to allow the construction

Stealing from the marginalized and underrepresented

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

and even big business instead of the truly marginalized and underrepresented is one reason why the status quo remains. It is the reason why farmers continue to suffer low prices for their produce amid high production costs and unabated importation of agriculture and fishery products. It is why laws that were meant to provide better conditions for marginalized and underprivileged groups like indigenous peoples have remained largely implemented in breach, why development aggression has continued in ancestral lands, and we see more legislation honoring and celebrating costumes and other cultural forms than ones that would substantially honor tribal rights to self-determination and ancestral domain.

As another election looms ahead of us, we are reminded of words from Professor Danilo Arao, convenor of election watch group Kontra Daya: “We expect party-list groups to be biased for the marginalized and underrepresented.” Arao says this is why voters should think hard when they cast that lone vote for a party-list group.

The same is true for all others we will put into positions of power. We are called to choose leaders, not rulers, says the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace; leaders with servant hearts, who provide direction and inspires the community to work tirelessly to help improve the condition of all Filipinos with preferential attention to the marginalized and excluded.

Choosing such a leader is not only advised in the Christian faith. Islam teaches that leaders should exercise justice, fulfill trust, observe righteousness, persevere in doing what is right, and honor promises.

At the end of the day, it is not only who we vote, but what we vote for.

Note: 270 party-list representatives filed their certificates of nomination and acceptance with the Commission on Elections for the 2022 elections as of October 30. MC

Americans now perceive ‘conflicts’ in plurality of religions

Penlight Nash B. Maulana

nash.penlight@gmail.com

of jama’an (small place of worship for Muslims) at Ground Zero in Manhattan, just as a council for the reconstruction includes plans to build a synagogue and a chapel there.

After the New York City leg of the coverage, journalist-diplomats treated us to a send-off lunch at the Sylvia’s Restaurant along Malcolm X Avenue in Harlem. This is the place where famous Black people, among them, Ali and Jabbar, Nelson Mandela, and music icon Michael Jackson, would occasionally and informally meet.

Edd Usman, then of Manila Bulletin requested me to bring him home a CD or DVD of either Simon and Garfunkel or the Eagles from N.Y. In Manhattan, I only saw an old 33 rpm plate record album of Simon and Garfunkel. No CD, no DVD, no Eagles. But mind you that outside Sylvia’s, I met two Black men vending DVDs and CDs by spreading a large cellophane wrapper for makeshift matting. Sidewalk vending is obviously illegal in that big city, as one of the two men kept turning his head or his eyeball on apparently on all directions.

The bigger of two men was telling me repeatedly in slang American English “I ain’t got eagles; but we’ve gotta Beatles for you here man…” I told them when I;m in in America I would prefer to buy an Eagles album; and Beatles when in England. He said where are you from? I said, “I came from the Philippines.” He said, “Oh man… They’ve got plenty of this in the Philippines.” Me: “Who do you mean by ‘they’?” Him: “From among you, your countrymen, man…” This made me believe that the source of their supplies of CDs and DVDs could probably be Quiapo in the heart of Manila. MC

6

October 16, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

own ranks of scalawags.

For even among good and disciplined men in uniform, the so-called “black sheep” in a family is inevitable.

That big-time corruption is indeed tough to account responsibility on – Who’s Charlie Señase who? As culprits would resort csenase@yahoo.com to finger-pointing when under probed and standing S the saying goes, “Action speaks more than words” especially when to face a legislative inquiry in aid of we are doers, not just hearers of legislation; and others would bat-in to say, God’s Word, that earthly measures and in aid of humiliation.

People with principle and delicadeza standard ought to emulate.

Beware of political rhetoric by would rather tell the truth amid would-be candidates who are belting out embarrassment and degradation on the election promises of “to kill or be killed belief that in the end nothing hidden will for constituents-sake” or heroic line of not be exposed or nothing covered that will “Willingness to offer one’s life so others not be unearthed. For after all our God who cannot lie since time began has appointed may live.”

Early this week, three tricycle drivers death then the judgment when all our aboard their individual vehicles were thoughts and deeds, including secrets, shall slain in Midsayap, North Cotabato by still be revealed for the world to know.

Thus, incumbent and incoming unknown assailants. One of the victims was a Midsayap resident while the two government officials here and the world others were from the neighboring Datu over have been striving to foster unity in Piang town of Maguindanao. Were the diversity as much as possible but reality merciless killings drug-related or personal is impossible for the law-abiding to coexist with outlaws as in light with darkness or vendetta? People on the streets asked.

In Cotabato City, meanwhile, a truth with falsehood.

Thought-provoking to entertain the pharmacy owner was shot dead in front of the victim’s establishment that police idea that as mortals, corruption is inherent probers are still facing a blank wall on in all of us that if we die unto salvation, the motive behind the broad daylight God will change us to become immortal attack that left behind CCTV footages of including our being corrupt to incorruption. the culprit and two lookouts wearing face And death is swallowed-up in victory (1 masks at the crime scene. Many suspect Corinthians 15:54) Genuine public service is anchored on them to belong to a gun-for-hire group. “freely give and freely receive.” But how, Why? Because shortly after, another news when most can’t survive without money? broke-out on the arrest of three “gun- And as role models on free choice, it pays to running suspects” - A police officer and two be humble and upright for God has chosen AFP members in Barangay Tamontaka, the weak things of the world to shame DOS, Maguindanao. Seized from the the wise and the mighty (1 Corinthians suspects were assorted high-powered 1:18-31).

It’s also written that “Eye has not firearms and ammunitions. Who could be the prospective buyers of these arms cache? seen nor ear heard nor have entered into Its origin and the brains behind the illegal the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 arms-trade?

Earlier, Police Director General Corinthians 2:9).

In all things trust in God not in men Guillermo Eleazar has warned political candidates on the use of campaign fund for we are just mere branches of the Vine that when detached or dismembered we sourced-out from illegal drugs.

Let’s hope and pray that the 2022 are nothing.

And only God-fearing leaders can truly national and local polls next year would not be chaotic and bloody with the proliferation lead constituents to the right path, for in of firearms and massive drug hallucination. righteousness exalts a nation (Proverbs MC It pays good for authorities to police their 14:34).

Leadership By Example

True to Form

A

COVID-19. The new experimental pill , the first of its kind cuts the risk of hospitalization and death by 50%. This is a pill that you can take home unlike other medications Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy that need to be given by intravenous injection. franco1573victoria@gmail.com Dr. Christi Risinger, Internal Medicine, explains lease don’t play with the electoral p r o c e s s . I t h i n k t h e i d e a o f how the new drug, Molnupiravir works substitution is a big mistake. It on the covid19. It works by disrupting was resorted to in 2016, look where it the replication process of the virus by brought us. Two weeks into the filling causing a huge number of mutation of COC, negotiations are still going on, so that they cannot almost continue in the national level, causing confusion to progress and cause worsening among us bystanders. I had imagined symptoms .

Merck has applied for Emergency this period would be Authorization Use a grand diversion with the US Food and from the pandemic Drug Administration. crisis, instead, this However, Dr. Christie is causing me more Risinger, has some stress. Why should reservations in the it? We are looking use of the pill. In at 6 years from an experiment with now, how shall we animals, it was manage our lives found that these between now and 6 experimental animals years later, assuming had deformities such COVID-19 is done as not having teeth, and over with? missing one leg and I quizzed my girls other birth defects. “do you love your She also is concerned with the work country”? of course , they replied.

“Why do you love your country”? of the pill that messes up the virus, Probably memorized from the pledge and might cause mutations elsewhere, during their elementary days, their possibly birth defects or cancer. This response was “It is the land of my mutagenecity could be potential to cause permanent changes in genetic birth; material .In another experiment, both It is the home of my people. men and women were asked to refrain It protects me and helps me to be from any sexual activity 4 days after strong, happy and useful..... taking the pill.

Dahil mahal ko ang Pilipinas Singapore was first to sign up for Tutuparin ko ang mga tungkulin the purchase of the pill, after Merck ng isang mamamayang makabayan; gets its EAU while the citizens of US naglilinkod, nag aaral ng buong can expect it to be in the market before katapatan Iaalay ko ang aking buhay pangarap, Christmas.

Fluvoxamine, another drug pagsisikap sa bansang Pilipinas.

T h e F i l i p i n o t r a n s l a t i o n i s proposed for the treatment of COVID-19 intentional. Have we been remiss has not shown much promise; while in inculcating love of country in our I v e r m e c t i n n e e d s f u r t h e r t r i a l s .

The only approved medicine at the schools and even at home?

N e w h o p e . A n o t h e r p o t e n t i a l moment is Remdesivir, and the prices breakthrough in the fight against are,skyrocketing. MC

A Mockery?

The Stuff of Life

P

Please don’t play with the electoral process.

limiting news to just a couple times a day and Stress during Pandemic Consider disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while.

HEALTH CORNER •Take care of your body

T

•Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditateexternal icon •Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals •Exercise regularly •Get plenty of sleep •Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco, and substance use •Continue with routine preventive measures (such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, etc.) as recommended by your healthcare provider •Get vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine •Make time to unwind — Try to do some other activities you enjoy •Connect with others — Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling •Connect with your community- or faithbased organizations — While social distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail

Reprint from Center for Disease Control and Prevention

he COVID-19 pandemic has had a major effect on our lives. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming, and cause strong emotions in adults and children.

Public health actions, such as social distancing, are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but they can make us feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. Learning to cope with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and those around you become more resilient.

Coping with stress: Stress can cause the following: •Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration •Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests •Difficulty concentrating and making decisions •Difficulty sleeping or nightmares •Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes •Worsening of chronic health problems •Worsening of mental health conditions •Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other substances It is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are ways that you can help yourself, others, and your community manage stress.

Taking care of yourself can better equip you to take care of others

Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress •Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed, but hearing about the pandemic constantly can be upsetting.

Helping Others Cope Taking care of yourself can better equip you to take care of others. During times of social distancing, it is especially important to stay connected with your friends and family. Helping others cope with stress through phone calls or video chats can help you and your loved ones feel less lonely or isolated.

Mental Health and Crisis •If you are struggling to cope, there are many ways to get help. Call your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row.

•During times of extreme stress, people may have thoughts of suicide.

Suicide is preventable and help is available. MC

Why Do We Invest?

the safer is your money.

Thus, one could have different forms of investments that could be aligned with certain life and financial goals.

Knowing the correct form Danny Buenbrazo danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com of investment for each life goal or financial target person that has come to the would allow us to mix and point of investing in an asset match out investible funds with the or basket of assets that can appropriate investment. provide income in the future is in an One of the common personal advance stage of money management. finance goals is to have a definite We can reasonably conclude that he or cash flow when we reach a certain age she had been able to set aside money or after retirement. For this purpose, to invest in financial instruments the appropriate investment vehicle (such as stocks, bonds, government would be one that would provide a securities) or in real estate (that will definite amount every year such as be used to generate cash flow or is a stock that has a regular dividend expected to be sold at a profit in the rate (could be payable annually, future). semi-annually, or quarterly). The Life, at least the financial aspects Pag-Ibig Fund also has a special Fund of it, could be easier if one crafts a where members can invest and expect personal financial plan early on. A an annual return in the range of 7% standard personal financial plan to 10 %. Investment in a property would include an assessment of your for lease (such as an apartment or a cash flow (income and expenditures), boarding house) could also serve the determination of net worth (total same purpose. assets less total liabilities), one’s For goals that would require g o a l s a n d o b j e c t i v e s ( w i t h t h e a larger, one-time expense, the planned timeline for accomplishment c o r r e s p o n d i n g i n v e s t m e n t and the corresponding financial i n s t r u m e n t s a r e t h o s e t h a t a r e requirements), and identified ways expected to appreciate overtime. t o g e n e r a t e i n c o m e ( i n c l u d i n g One option is to purchase a real investments in different types of property (say a residential lot) and assets). dispose it after a certain number of The general purpose of investing years when the target future value is to generate income that comes on had been realized. For example, lot a regular basis or at a future time that cost P800,000 could be roughly though the amount of return and P1,600,000 after ten (10) years the exact time for realizing profits if rate of appreciation is 10% per could not exactly be determined for year. We can also engage in pesosome assets. Some investments would cost averaging, buying a certain yield specific return (usually the rate company’s share of stock and buying is low to medium) while others could more every time its price falls, provide a large profit or could also hoping that over the years it’s market yield negative profits. price would have risen by a certain Different types of investments percentage, say 100%. provide different levels of yields The more aggressive and liquid or income and also different levels stock market investors engage in of risks. The general rule is, the regular buying and selling, taking higher the potential income from an advantage of the dips in the market. investment, the higher the potential Investing this way could be profitable risk. Conversely, the more certain and with the right knowledge and good lower the return on the investment, timing. MC

Market Driven

A

MP ‘Ongpin’ mulls dialysis centers...from P2

with business clients or customers provide him first-hand information on the status of communities

of Moro and non-Moro residents.

Yu Ekey also represents the Christian

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

Republic of the Philippines Region XII Pikit, Cotabato OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Jun A. Macungan has filed with this office a petition for correction of clerical error in the certificate of live birth of his child Jurhaimin Usman Macungan particularly the sex from Female to Male, he was born on October 21, 2001 at Macasampen, Talayan, Maguindanao and whose parents are Mimbai M. Usman and Jun A. Macungan.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later October 20, 2021.

(Sgd.) ILO L. NOR Municipal Civil Registrar

7

THE MINDANAO CROSS

October 16, 2021

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 given to the public that Hadiguia S. Abas has filed with this office, a petition for the correction of clerical error in the gender from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth of Aljory Solaiman Abas who was born at Bagoinged, Pikit, Cotabato on 23 November 2011 and whose parents are Jojo L. Abas and Hadiguia R. Solaiman.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than October 9, 2021.

(Sgd.) EDITHA I. MONTERDE, MAEd Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Oct. 9 & 16, 2021

MC: Sept. 25 & Oct. 2, 2021

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 Marso 2021. Ang subasta ay sa Nobyembre 01, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Oct. 16 & 23

RANEN PAWNSHOP MAIN, BRANCH I, II & III Don Rufino Alonzo & Don Tomas Martinez Sts, Cot. City

Notice for Auction

All unredeemed articles pledged on March 2021 will be auctioned on November 1, 2021 at 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Please come before November 1, 2021 for renewal or redemption.

Patalastas ng Subasta

Lahat ng sangla noong Marso 2021 ay ipagbibili ng Subasta sa Nobyembre 1, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:30 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon. Kung maari ay pumunta bago ang Nobyembre 1, 2021 para sa pagbayad ng tubo o pagtubos.

MC: Oct. 16 & 23

ANNOUNCEMENT Ang G-ROCE Pawnshop sa Cotabato City at G-ROCE Pawnshop Damosa, Davao City, ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Nobyembre 30, 2021 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Hunyo 2021 Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta.

MC: Oct. 16, 2021

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 October 1-30, 2020 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 October 27, 2021.

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 Oktubre 1-30, 2020 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 Oktubre 27, 2021.

MC:Oct. 16 & 23, 2021

community in BARMM, along with MP Susana Salvador-Anayatin in the BTC Parliament.

The proposed

dialysis centers, once completed, with all the medical facilities needed, will be placed under the administrative and

CONLUCK PAWNSHOP MAIN CONLUCK DON RUFINO BRANCH & CONLUCK PAWNSHOP BRANCH 4 ng Cotabato City ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sanla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula Setyembre 2020 hanggang Oktubre 2020. Ang Subasta ay sa Oktubre 30, 2021 sa ganap na ika 8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: October 16 & 23, 2021 Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Barira, Maguindanao OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Norsal M. Sarian has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the birth certificate of Norsal M. Sarian bearing registry No. 2001-96, who was born on November 24, 1998 at Barira, Maguindanao and whose parents are Cairoden Cadayon Sarian and Indera Mangorsi Mangutara.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later October 15, 2021.

(Sgd.) NAJAT GUBAT HASHIM Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Oct. 9 & 16, 2021

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 5 of RA 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Rafael Carbonel Eduarte has filed with this office a petition for correction for change of first name Rafael Edgar to Rafael in the certificate of live birth of Rafael Edgar Carbonel Eduarte who was born on October 24, 1958 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Wendelin M. Eduarte and Constancia C. Carbonel.

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

(Sgd.) NORA B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar MC: Oct. 9 & 16, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses KAGUI GAYAK KASAN AKMAD and AISA DIMACUTAC who both died intestate at Kapinpilan, Midsayap, Cotabato on May 14, 2020 and January 15, 2020, respectively, left a parcel of land Lot 674, Pls-134, in Bulanan (now Sadaan), Midsayap, Cotabato, covered by OCT No. V-12462 with an area of 66,368 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with partition and simultaneous waiver of portions before Notary Public Atty. Mohammad Jameel A. Singh as per Doc. No. 124; Page No. 24; Book No. 13; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late CRESENCIO CARILLO, who died at San Bonifacio, San Miguel, Pangasinan, left a parcel of land Lot No. 2885, B.L. Cad-107, covered by OCT No. V-1089 with an area of 61,849 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Atty. Romeo T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 326; Page No. 68; Book No. CXCII; Series of 2017.

MC: Oct. 9, 16 & 23, 2021

MC: Oct. 2, 9 & 16, 2021

operational management of government hospitals, such as the Cotabato Regional Medical Center Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT 1ST SHARI’A CIRCUIT COURT 5th Shari’a Judicial District Cotabato City

SCC Civil Case No. 2021-1878 -forCONFIRMATION OF TALAQ LAILA MAE ALI NANDING, Petitioner, versusABDULLAH ALI S. ALGHASHAM Respondent. x-------------------------------------x SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION TO: ABDULLAH ALI S. ALGHASHAM Pursuant to the September 10, 2021 Order of this Court authorizing service of summons by publication, you are hereby required within sixty (60) days from the publication of the summons and petition to file this court and serve on the petitioner your answer to the petition or any such responsive pleading. If you fail to appear and answer within the time aforesaid, this Court will motu propio hear the case ex-parte, upon which judgment may be rendered.

WITNESS THE HONORABLE CASIM S. BAILAN, SR., Alhaj, Acting Presiding Judge of this Court, this 13th day of September 2 0 2 1 , a t C o t a b a t o C i t y, Philippines (Sgd.) MOHAMMAD A. ABDULRAHMAN Clerk of Court II

MC: Oct. 2, 9 & 16, 2021

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

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 5 of RA 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Mohammad Raiz G. Baguadatu has filed with this office a petition for correction of child’s first name from Raees to Mohammad Raiz in his certificate of live birth who was born on November 1,1997 at Wilada Hospital, Madinah, K.S.A., whose parents are Saeeda G. Baguadatu and Resundo C. Baguadatu.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than ten days after the last publication.

(Sgd.) MARY GRACE JESSICA M. TAAL Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Oct. 9 & 16, 2021

(CRMC) in Cotabato City and the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC) in Marawi City.

The late Congressman Simeon A. Datumanong of Maguindanao had also supported the procurement and development of dialysis services in both the CRMC and in Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, utilizing the countrywide development fund (CDF) of his congressional district. Nash B. Maulana

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EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late MARIA LEA L. LEAL, who died on September 14, 2021 in Cotabato City, left a Savings Account at Banco de Oro (BDO) bearing Account No. 003340151207 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty.

Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. No. 702; Page No. 702; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

MC: Oct. 2, 9 & 16, 2021

AFFIDAVIT OF SELF-ADJUDICATION Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late GABRIEL ESTRADA and CARMENCITA CATADA ESTRADA, who died intestate on October 11, 2019 and February 8, 2017 at Kabacan, Cotabato, respectively, a parcel of land Lot C-9B-13-A, Psd-12-001645 at Poblacion, Kabacan, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-77512 is the subject of affidavit of self-adjudication before Notary Public Atty. Froilan R. Melendrez as per Doc. No. 146; Page No. 31; Book No. I; Series of 2021.

MC: Oct. 2, 9 & 16, 2021

ANNOUNCEMENT

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 Nobyembre 30, 2021 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Hunyo 2021

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 Nobyembre 30, 2021 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Hunyo 2021.

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

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” “Sa Feroce Pawnshop na tayo kumpleto na ang serbisyo” MC: Oct. 16, 2021

MC: Oct. 16, 2021

NOTICE FOR AUCTION CROWN PAWNSHOP will hold a public auction sale for all unredeemed, not auctioned or not renewed items that were pledged, renewed, or pawned January 2, 2020 to December 31, 2020. Auction will be on November 27, 2021 at its office from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Don Rufino Alonzo St. Cotabato City.

NOTICE FOR AUCTION TRIUNE PAWNSHOP will hold a public auction sale for all unredeemed, not auctioned or not renewed items that were pledged, renewed, or pawned from January 2, 2020 to December 31, 2020. Auction will be on November 27, 2021 at its office from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Jaycee Avenue, Midsayap, North Cotabato.

PATALASTAS NG SUBASTA CROWN PAWNSHOP ay magkakaroon ng subasta ng lahat ng sangla na hindi natutubos. Ito ay ang mga nasangla noog Enero 2, 2020 hanggang Disyembre 31, 2020. Ang subasta ay gagawin sa ganap na 10:00 A.M. hanggang 3:00 P.M. sa Nobyembre 27, 2021 sa opisina sa don Rufino Alonzo St. Cotabato City.

PATALASTAS NG SUBASTA

MC: Oct. 9, 16 & 23, 2021

TRIUNE PAWNSHOP ay magkakaroon ng subasta ng lahat ng sangla na hindi natutubos. Ito ay ang mga nasangla noon Enero 2, 2020 hanggang Disyembre 31, 2020. Ang subasta ay gagawin sa ganap na 10:00 A.M. hanggang 3:00 P.M. sa Nobyembre 27, 2021 sa opisina sa Jaycee Avenue, Midsayap, North Cotabato.

MC: Oct. 9, 16 & 23, 2021

8

October 16, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

8 more BIFF members surrender

EIGHT more members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters surrendered Wednesday.

The BIFF, tagged in all deadly bombings in central Mindanao since 2013, operates in the fashion of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said Thursday the eight BIFF members are led

by Johar Palaguyan.

Palaguyan, also known as “Daran,” told reporters he and his companions bolted from the BIFF after learning that those who surrendered ahead of them have been reintroduced to mainstream society and are now thriving peacefully as farmers.

Palaguyan and his followers agreed to yield through the backchannel intercession of Lt. Col. Nathaniel Balintong of the 92nd Infantry Battalion, Brig. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio of the Army’s 1st Brigade Combat Team and local officials in Maguindanao’s adjoining Datu Hoffer,

Salibo and Shariff Aguak towns.

The group turned in a 60 millimeter mortar, three bolt-action 7.62 rifles, an M14 rifle, an M16 rifle, an Ultimax rifle and a rocket-propelled grenade.

“It’s good that they have decided to return to the fold of law. It is not too late yet,” Uy said.

Palaguyan and his seven followers renounced their membership with the BIFF and pledged allegiance to the government during a simple rite in Shariff Aguak town Wednesday.

More than 300 BIFF members have surrendered in batches to units of 6th ID since 2017, many of them now being returned to the local communities with the help of the Bangsamoro regional government and local executives in different towns in central Mindanao. John

Felix Unson

No lead yet on deadly Midsayap gun attacks I N V E S T I G A T O R S “hired killers” could be watchmen and personnel have no suspects yet on Monday’s gun attack in Midsayap town in North Cotabato that left three tricycle drivers dead.

Lt. Col. Rolly Oranza, chief of the Midsayap municipal police, said earlier the fatalities, Nasrudin Mantikayan, 25, Paha Alimoden Ducay, 58, and the 29-year-old Ryan Usop Bano, all died on the spot from multiple bullet wounds in different parts of their bodies.

He told reporters that

responsible for the murder of thee tricycle drivers, without elaborating.

Oranza said probers need enough time to identify their killers.

The three tricycle drivers were together waiting for passengers along a busy street in Barangay Poblacion 2 in Midsayap when two men on a motorcycle arrived and shot them with pistols.

They quickly escaped before responding volunteer barangay

of the Midsayap municipal police could reach the scene.

Oranza said investigators are still trying to identify the culprits and their motive for the attack.

There has been a rash of killings in Midsayap since last month.

The Midsayap police and the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion are now cooperating to prevent a repeat of the deadly incidents. John Felix Unson

Cops hunt BPAT member in farmer’s murder

ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat — Police authorities here have launched manhunt against a village watchman who shot dead a man in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.

At the same time, Colonel Tom Tuzon, Sultan Kudarat provincial police director, condemned the act of the village watchman who was a member of Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT), a police force multiplier.

“The BPAT members, as trained force multipliers and strong partners of the police in the maintenance of peace and order, are expected to adhere to the existing laws and display

of good behavior,” Colonel Tuzon said in a statement released Thursday.

“We condemn his act and he must be charged,” the police director said.

“SKPPO will not tolerate such act and I remind all our BPATs as our partners in crime prevention to observe proper manner, remain calm and adhere to the rule of law,” he added.

Lt. Colonel Joel Fuerte, chief Police Community Affairs Development Unit (PCADU) of Sultan Kudarat provincial office, said investigation showed that BPAT member, Ronnie Catroverde, assigned in

Barangay Paitan allegedly shot Junmar Sarad, 44, farmer and resident of Barangay Paitan after heated argument at 8 p.m.

Tuesday.

Relatives rushed Sarad to the hospital where he died along the way while Catroverde fled with his cal.

45 pistol.

Police found empty shells for cal. 45 pistol in front of the victim’s home, the crime scene.

Manhunt has been going on against Castroverdo even as Colonel Tuzon appealed for his immediate and peaceful surrender. Edwin

O. Fernandez

Tacurong drug den operator charged

TACURONG CITY — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency has filed charges against a drug den operator and four others arrested here last weekend.

This was confirmed to The Mindanao Cross Thursday by PDEA-12 Director Naravy Duquiatan.

The drug den operator, Jomar Patiño, 35, was long wanted for distribution of shabu here and in nearby towns in Sultan Kudarat province.

PDEA-12 agents and members of the Tacurong City police found P78,400 worth of shabu in his hideout in Barangay Baras here that they

searched for drugs and firearms based on a warrant issued by a local court.

Patiño allowed his contacts to sniff shabu in groups in his hideout, according to neighbors privy to his drug trafficking activity.

Four persons inside the den, Crystal Galey Palmes, 20, John Berry Nimes, 29, Rogen Oncino, 36, and the 72-yearold Felipe Panes, were also arrested, now clamped down, along with Patiño, in a detention facility.

The PDEA-12 shall prosecute the suspects for violation of Republic Act 9165, or Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

John Felix Unson

US-PH Congressional Caucus launched

A US-Philippines Congressional Friendship Caucus has been launched in a hybrid virtual and in-person event hosted by the US Embassy in the Philippines on October 13.

The U.S. Embassy in Manila said the Friendship Caucus is a cross-party group of members of the Philippine Senate and House of Representatives seeking to strengthen bilateral relations between the United States and the Philippines.

Established in 2021 along with the 75th Anniversary celebration of the diplomatic relations between the United States and the Philippines, the caucus will sponsor events in partnership with the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and help deepen relations between the Philippine legislative branch and the U.S. government.

An Embassy statement said membership is open to any senator or member of Congress interested in joining.

At the launch, the U.S. Embassy shared insights on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the United States, and how those experiences have shaped U.S. assistance to the Philippines.

Participants heard from presenters in the State of California about that state’s experience in the pandemic and from representatives of U.S vaccine manufacturers.

Representatives from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also presented information about U.S. support to the Philippines both bilaterally and through the COVAX facility that delivers

vaccines around the globe.

The Embassy said the U.S. government is proud to support pandemic relief efforts in the Philippines since the outbreak began.

Through the COVAX facility, the United States has facilitated delivery of more than 24.3 million vaccines to the Philippines, including more than 16.4 million doses provided by the American people, the statement said.

Just since the beginning of October, the Philippines has received more than 7.4 million doses provided jointly by the United States and COVAX, it added.

Since the start of the pandemic, the United States has also provided more than P1.9 billion ($39 million) to support the Philippines’ pandemic response.

This assistance has helped train healthcare workers, establish quarantine facilities, improve public health communication, enhance vaccine rollout, and support economic recovery efforts.

The United States is the leading donor to the COVAX facility and has contributed P200 billion ($4 billion) to fund equitable vaccine access around the world.

With such funds provision, and those of other COVAX contributors, COVAX has already shipped millions of doses of AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, and Pfizer vaccines to the Philippines.

By the end of 2023, COVAX will have provided vaccines to one in every three Filipinos, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said.

Nash B. Maulana

PERSISTENT SERVICES. Health and public works officials of the Bangsamoro Region turnover the 100-bed capacity isolation center inside the Dr. Serapio b. Montañer Memorial Hospital in Malabang, Lanao del Sur. The center is ready to serve not only for Malabang folks but patients from nearby towns in Lanao del Sur. Photo courtesy of MOH BARMM

Lanao hospital gets COVID-19 isolation center

WHILE the region has the fewest number of Covid-19 infections in the country, the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) continues its preparedness and built additional isolation facilities for Covid patients.

Dr. Bashary Latiph, BARMM health minister and Engr. Eduard Guerra, BARMM public works minister, turned over Wednesday the 100 bed capacity isolation center to Dr. Serapio Montañer memorial hospital in Malabang, Lanao del Sur On Thursday, Minister Latiph said the isolation facility will not only benefit Malabang constituents but all nearby municipalities of Lanao Del Sur amidst Covid-19 pandemic.

The isolation center is fully airconditioned with CCTV and other

facilities that could serve the people of coastal towns of Lanao del Sur such as Malabang, Kapatagan, Balabagan, Marogong, Butig, Picong and Sultan Naga Dimaporo.

"We are changing the perception of the people on what public hospital is, its serves without boundaries," Minister Guerra said. “Health service is for all.”

Speaking to health frontiners in Lanao Sur, Minister Latiph shared that BARMM holds the record of having the lowest number of Covid-19 infections the entire country.

Aside from the Malabang isolation facility, Minister Latiph announced that MOH-BARMM and Ministry of Public Works are building more isolation facilities or Temporary Treatment Monitoring

Facilities (TTMF).

On top of that is the establishment of the RTPCR laboratory inside the Provincial Hospital in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.

“We assure you of our continuing and unabated services to our constituents,” said Dr. Alinader D. Minalang, Lanao Sur health chief and head of Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO).

He lauded MOH-BARMM and MPW for the new isolation center in Lanao Sur. "Indeed this isolation center is a public health imperative to protect our Bangsamoro people especially in our areas from getting Covid -19 infections," Dr. Romeo G. Montañer, chief of hospital, said. Edwin O.

Fernandez