The Mindanao Cross | October 29, 2022

Days to Christmas

GAINS OF NORMALIZATION

LABOR’

In a panel session with journalists and storytellers on Tuesday, OPAPRU Executive Director Atty. Wilben M. Mayor said the interventions being carried out through the Normalization Program, especially those under its socioeconomic component, is the result of the strong collaboration between the government and the MILF.

secures surrender of

By John Felix Unson

GENERAL SANTOS

CITY — Fifteen members of the New People’s Army, six of them from a group extorting “protection money” from traders, surrendered Wednesday.

They pledged allegiance to the government, before Brig Gen. Jamili Macaraeg of the Police Regional Office-12 and local executives, during a surrender rite held at the PRO-12 headquarters in Barangay Tambler here.

Six of the 15 NPAs confessed to their participation in the collection of monthly “protection money” from

traders.

Boost in BARMM’s economic activities

“Because the peace and order situation is improving in BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), economic activities have already increased. Ito ‘yung mga magagandang nakikita natin because of the fruits of our labor, both from the national government and the MILF,”

NPAs

The 15 NPAs operated in upland towns in Region 12’s adjoining South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani provinces, according to provincial police officials present in the event.

Macaraeg said he is thankful to the local executives, the municipal and provincial police officials who cooperated in securing the surrender of the 15 rebels via backchannel dialogues.

The PRO-12 provided the 15 men, mostly members of different P3

Mayor said.

He noted that the Bangsamoro people’s quality of life continues to improve, as evidenced by the region's poverty incidence declining by a significant double-digit rate -- from 52.6% in 2018 to 29.8% in 2021, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.

“Because of the improved peace in the

Indigenous sports revived on IP Day tilt

THE Bangsamoro Sports Commission (BSC) is reviving the indigenous games as it organized a three-day competition from October 19 to 21 west wing of the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City.

In celebration of the Indigenous Peoples' (IP) Month traditional sports competitions were held for two main events in Sipa Sa Manggis and Sipa sa Lama.

BSC Chairperson Nu-man Caludtiag said that the sports events were designed to promote and preserve the traditional or cultural sports of the Bangsamoro people inherited in ages from forebears.

The term Sipa literally means "to kick"; Manggis means "sweet victory." Lama means "playground".

Sipa sa Manggis is one of the traditional sports of the Bangsamoro that symbolize fame, power, honor, and pride. This game is played by kicking a small ratan-made ball upward to hit the Manggis case, hung on a cable tied on both ends at about 10 meters above the ground. Each case box is P9

DID YOU KNOW?

BARMM, maraming economic activities at prospects. No less than Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said that there is a bright future in Mindanao,” Mayor said.

He also cited the increased complementation between the GPH and the MILF’s various peace mechanisms, which have resulted in more effective program implementation

welcomes new JICA rep

By Edwin O. Fernandez

THE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), through the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Management (MFBM), welcomed the new Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) representative for the region as it thanked the agency’s continuing support in managing finances of the regional bureaucracy.

JICA and MFBM have reaffirmed commitment for continued partnerships in advancing financial and budget management in the Bangsamoro region.

October 29 is National Indigenous Peoples Thanksgiving Day

National Indigenous People’s Thanksgiving Day is observed on October 29 every year in the Philippines. It is a day to honor and promote the hundreds of thousands of indigenous peoples who live in the Philippines archipelagos’ highlands. The day honors all indigenous people in the country who have been granted civil and human rights. The indigenous peoples of the Philippines are valiant people who, despite their traditional customs, were able to resist colonization by both Spanish and American conquerors who overran the Philippines archipelago’s lowlands. Please join us in calling for equal rights for these individuals. - Nationaltoday.com

Atty. Ubaida Pacasem, MFBM Minister, has expressed his gratitude for the invaluable support of JICA for autonomous government since the ratification of the Republic Act No. 11054 also known as the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

"To Mr. Yo Ebisawa, thank you for your efforts, especially in strengthening Public Financial Management (PFM) in BARMM," Minister Pacasem said.

"We see all of these as a gesture of goodwill that has proven

CARE

Reyes,

Photo courtesy of Fr. Pon Vasquez, OMI

CLIMATE CHANGE IS REAL.

the upland town of Upi, Maguindanao, particularly8 in Barangay Poblacion Nuro, was not spared by floods as an overnight rain spawned by Typhoon Paeng hit mainland Mindanao.

Photo courtesy of Fidel Talabon

Murder of Moro leaders condemned, P300K up for councilor’s killers

OFFICIALS have condemned the brutal murders this week of a leader of the Moro National Liberation Front and and a municipal councilor in separate gun attacks in Maguindanao del Sur and Cotabato provinces.

Mayor Otto Montawal of Montawal, Maguindanao, on Tuesday offered a P300,000 cash reward for any information leading to the arrest of the suspects in the murder noontime Monday of a constituentmunicipal councilor, Mubarak Abubakar.

Gunmen killed Abubakar, a member of the Sangguniang Bayan in Montawal, Maguindanao, while buying smoked fish along a stretch of a highway in the municipality at noontime Monday, October 24.

He was talking to a vendor in a roadside stall in Barangay Pagagawan, Datu Montawal when men with pistols approached from behind and shot him in the head.

He was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians at the Deseret Surgimed Hospital in Kabacan in North Cotabato, about five kilometers away from where he was attacked.

"I am offering a reward for

information that can help hasten the effort to identify who his killers were," Mayor Montawal said Wednesday.

Probers from the Montawal Municipal Police Station are still trying to determine who the culprits were and their motive for killing the Moro municipal councilor.

Abubakar was killed exactly 17 hours after gunmen killed in nearby Midsayap, Cotabato a Moro datu, Jordan Tayuan, a ranking leader of the MNLF.

Lt. Col. Oranza, chief of the Midsayap Municipal Police Station, told reporters Monday Jordan Tayuan died instantly from multiple bullet wounds.

Men with M16 assault rifles and .45 caliber pistols barged into his house in Purok Uno in Barangay Bual Sur, Midsayap at about 6:00 p.m. Sunday, October 23, and shot him repeatedly at close range.

The suspects fled towards Datu

Piang town in Maguindanao using a getaway black minivan parked right in front of the victim’s house.

Tayuan, who belongs to a big clan whose members are residing in Cotabato’s adjoining Midsayap, Pikit and Aleosan towns, was a senior MNLF official in the province.

In a statement Monday, Bangsamoro Labor Minister Muslimin Sema, MNLF chair, urged the police, relatives and followers of Tayuan to cooperate in identifying his killers.

Sema and other officials of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao had also condemned the brutal deaths of Tayuan and Abubakar in the hands of suspected hired killers.

Sema said Tayuan had actively participated in community-driven peace and security efforts in many areas in Cotabato province. John Felix Unson

PRO-12 chief launches health fund for cops, kins

A police general in the Soccsksargen region has launched a mutual fund program he envisioned to help colleagues and uniformed personnel in need of medical attention during emergencies.

Recognizing the unprecedented challenges of police personnel under Police Regional Office (PRO-12), Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, regional director, dubbed his health care project as “HEART” which stands for “Health and Emergency Assistance for Rehabilitation and Treatment.”

“Service with a HEART” is also the battle cry of Brig. Gen. Macaraeg that he formed as he assumed the regional police office’s top post.

HEART also stands for “Humility, Enthusiasm, Aspirations, Respect, Timely and appropriate response.”

This is an advocacy Brig. Gen. Macaraeg wants every member of

PRO-12 to bear in mind as they serve and protect the people.

On Monday, Brig. Gen. Macaraeg officially initiated the creation of the program that will provide financial assistance and benefits to its members and their beneficiaries who may have incurred injuries or sick.

The launching activity was graced by the Guest of Honor and Speaker, John Ralph T. Manilay, vice-president and Board of Trustee of Golden State College, wherein he turned over a cash donation of P100,000 that will serve as seed money for the newly-launched program.

“Rest assured that your investment to our program will be put to good use and will serve its purpose. Our police will be much more efficient and effective if they are well taken care of by the organization they work

for,” Brig. Gen. Macaraeg said.

The mutual fund will come from minimal contributions from all members of PRO-12, including nonuniformed personnel (NUP).

“Our personnel will benefit from this program, including your immediate families,” Brig.Gen. Macaraeg said.

“Ranking police officials will have higher contributions and lesser for those with lower ranks,” he said without mentioning the amount each police have to share.

“Our NUP will have the least contribution because they are not paid as high as police officers,” he explained.

“Let’s not think of the amount we share, let’s think how we can help our needy colleagues in the uniform service,” the police official told his subordinates. Edwin O. Fernandez

Maguindanao 4Ps “graduated,” get startup fund

NO longer poorest of the poor, about 167 family-beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Maguindanao have “graduated” from the government’s anti-poverty program, officials said.

As they cease receiving monthly conditional grants, the ex-4Ps grantees went home with a P15,000 startup capital from the Ministry of Social Services and Development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSDBARMM).

BARMM social welfare Minister Atty. Raissa H. Jajurie congratulated “the graduates” because during the course of being 4Ps beneficiaries, they were able to improve their lives, especially their children's health, nutrition, and education.

During the PugayTagumpay ceremony at the Sultan Mastura municipal gymnasium with the theme "Pagkilala sa Matagumpay na Pamilyang Bangsamoro," Minister Jajurie, a lawyer, told graduating 4Ps beneficiaries that government intervention continues.

“Now that you have graduated from the program, it does not mean we severed our relationships with each other,” Minister Jajurie told the recipientgraduates, mostly mothers.

“Through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), you are qualified to receive startup capital for your livelihood and income generating project,” she said, adding that she is hopeful the capital fund will grow and improve the lives of former 4Ps beneficiaries.

A total of 167 4Ps beneficiaries from

municipalities of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Sultan Mastura, Parang, and Upi of Maguindanao have received certificates of recognition for graduating from the program.

Jajurie said their “graduation” signifies that they have accelerated from being on the survival or subsistence level to being self-sufficient.

Aside from SLP, the BARMM has other programs that aimed to help improve the lives of indigent Bangsamoro. She named Bangsamoro Sagip Kabuhayan (BSK), and Angat Bangsamoro Kabataan tungo sa Kinabukasan (ABaKa) that are existing to further uplift their well-being.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) National Director Gemma B. Gabuya who was present during the graduation rites, said the government will continue to assist them through its sustainable programs which will give them more opportunities to continue improving their lives.

She also emphasized that exiting from 4Ps will give chance to other poor households to be part of it.

In addition to the certificates, the graduates also received P15,000 each as a business capital from SLP.

Out of over 4.4 million households under 4Ps Listahanan, a significant portion of it are from Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The 4Ps (formerly known as Bangon Pamilyang Pilipino Program in 2008) is a human development measure of the Philippine government, which provides conditional cash grants to poorest of the poor to improve the health, nutrition, and education of children aged 0-18. Edwin O. Fernandez

US P15-M support to PH judiciary reforms launched

THE United States government sends in a P15-million support package to judicial reforms programs being vigorously pushed by the Philippine Supreme Court.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo formally launched on Wednesday the $250,000 assistance program to support the Philippines’ on-going judicial reform efforts.

Chief Justice Gesmundo thanked the US government and other partner agencies for their contributions “that have helped the Supreme Court become more efficient and effective in the administration of justice,” he said.

Ambassador Carlson officially announced the grant during her courtesy

call on Chief Justice Gesmundo at the Supreme Court on October 21.

The US Embassy in Manila said the Department of State’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) “has awarded the grant to the U.S. National Center for State Courts (NCSC) to facilitate the implementation of the Manila Justice Sector Reform Program in support of the Supreme Court’s 2022-2027 Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations.”

“This 18-month long program seeks to set the foundation for future judicial reforms by evaluating the existing capacity of the Philippine judiciary, supporting strategic planning, and developing key performance baselines and tools for measuring success,”

the statement from the Embassy said.

Associate Justice Ramon Paul L. Hernando, Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul B. Inting, Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, Associate Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez, Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez, and Associate Justice Antonio T. Kho, Jr. were also present.

The NCSC is an American non-profit organization that provides technical assistance, training, and technology to enhance justice systems and services around the world.

“The rule of law is essential in ensuring equal access to justice for all, especially the most vulnerable,” Ambassador Carlson said as she spoke to the Philippine Chief Justice

and the Associate Justices.

Ambassador Carlson said: “We must preserve democratic institutions and bring together like-minded countries because the rule of law is vital to democracy. The United States values its longstanding partnership with the Philippines and remains committed to supporting the Supreme Court as it pursues judicial reforms.”

Globally, INL assists partner governments assess, build, reform, and sustain competent and legitimate criminal justice systems, and develop and implement the mechanism necessary to sustain crossborder law enforcement cooperation. Nash B. Maulana

BACK TO THE FOLD OF LAW. Fifteen more members of the New People’s Army pledged allegiance to the government through the efforts of units of the Police Regional Office-12. Story on page 1. Photo courtesy of PRO-12

on the ground.

“These mechanisms are composed of national government representatives, as well as the [those coming from the] MILF. Any decision that will be brought up by these mechanisms is a collective decision,” Mayor said.

“Palaging dini-discuss kung anong kailangan ng community o combatants,” he added, explaining that there should always be an agreement between the government and the MILF before these programs are implemented.

Decommissioning

Another testament of the strong partnership between the GPH and the MILF is the ongoing implementation of the decommissioning process of MILF combatants, which is among the key provisions of the Annex on Normalization of the CAB.

As of October 24, a total of 23,985 MILF members have already been decommissioned. This translates to nearly P2.4 billion in transitional cash assistance provided to them.

This financial assistance is on top of the other socioeconomic projects worth nearly P750 million, which these former combatants stand to receive from the government such as social protection, capacity development, livelihood and employment assistance, and small-scale infrastructure programs.

A total of P3.1 billion -- funds which have pooled from the national government and various international donor agencies - have been earmarked for the implementation of socioeconomic programs for the decommissioned combatants, their families and communities.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSE B. REGODO, who died on September 24, 2021, a parcel of land Lot 2463-A-2-B, Psd12-021656-AR, situated in Abaga, Libungan, Cotabato, containing an area of 10,169 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. CT-7920 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous waiver of rights before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 38; Page No. 8; Book No. CCCXVI; Series of 2022.

MC: Oct. 29, Nov. 5 & 12, 2022

AFFIDAVIT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses WILFREDO FERNANDEZ BINGIL and JULIET ALSADO BINGIL, who died on September 1, 2021 and April 26, 2021, respectively, both in Davao Oriental, left a parcel of land consisting of 240 sq. mts., more or less, located in Kakar, Cotabato City and covered by TCT No. T-26173 is subject of affidavit of self-adjudication with simultaneous conditional deed of sale before Notary Public Atty. Amira S. Pagayao, CPA as pr Doc. No. 215; Page No. 43; Book No. XII; Series of 2022.

MC:

Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., stressed that the implementation of the socioeconomic development aspect of the normalization track is crucial to the Bangsamoro peace process, as they are meant to uplift the lives of the former combatants and their families.

“We are optimistic that the funding requirements for the socioeconomic programs will be met in the succeeding years, as member-agencies of the Inter-Cabinet Cluster Mechanism on Normalization’s (ICCMN)

socioeconomic sub-cluster are gearing up towards the inclusion of normalization in its regular programs,” Galvez said.

“The work for the normalization track, as well as the political track, is a shared commitment and effort. I urge our MILF counterparts to continue working with us to fast track the implementation of our programs so that we can successfully transform the lives of our MILF brothers and sisters and bring sustainable peace and development to their communities,” he added.

OPAPRU

PMARK PAWNSHOP MAIN & PMARK PAWNSHOP ALNOR BRANCH Patalastas ng Subasta

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 Mayo 2022. Ang Subasta ay sa Nobyembre 2, 2022 sa ganap na ika 9:00 ng umaga hanggang 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Oct.. 29, 2022

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 Nobyembre 30, 2022 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Hunyo 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: Oct. 29, 2022

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 12TH Judicial Region BRANCH 27 Cotabato City

Special Proceeding No. 2022-1577

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF SHAHA KUSAIN MENTING BEARING REGISTRY NUMBER 2000-2652,

SHAHA KUSAIN LAGUI as represented by her attorney-in-fact, RASMIAKUSAIN LAGUI, Petitioner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, MASIDING ENTIK LAGUI, MASIDING ENTIK MENTING, SAMIRA KUSAIN LAGUI, AND SHARIFF KUSAIN LAGUI, AND OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL, LEGASPE VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY, Respondents.

A verified petition was filed by petitioner, assisted by counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the Office of the Local Registrar of Cotabato City, to make the necessary correction in the Certificate of Live Birth of Petitioner under registry No. 2000-2652 to change petitioner’s last name from Menting to Lagui and petitioner’s father from Menting to Lagui.

FINDING the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on December 20, 2022 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, at which place, date and time, any person who may have interest, if any, may show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published in a newspaper 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 at the expense of the petitioner.

ORDERED.

Cotabato City, Philippines, this 12th day of October, 2022.

KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN Presiding

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 12TH Judicial Region BRANCH 27 Cotabato City Special Proceeding No. 2022-1583

IN THE MATTER OF DROPPING THE SURNAME OF THE FATHER AND USING THE SURNAME OF THE MOTHER.

MUBEEN AN-NOUF MANTAWIL MIMBALA, represented by mother BAILENG S. MANTAWIL Petitioner, -versus-

THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, and OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL, LEGASPE VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY, Respondents.

ORDER

A verified petition was filed by petitioner, assisted by counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the Office of the Local Registrar of Cotabato City, to make the necessary correction in the Certificate of Live Birth of Petitioner particularly the surname of petitioner’s from MIMBALA TO MANTAWIL.

FINDING the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on December 20, 2022 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, at which place, date and time, any person who may have interest, if any, may show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published in a newspaper 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 at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

Cotabato City, Philippines, this 11th day of October, 2022.

(Sgd.) KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN Presiding Judge MC: Oct. 29, Nov. 5 & 12, 2022

indigenous communities, with initial food rations and other provisions after they pledged allegiance to the government in the presence of local officials.

No fewer than a hundred NPAs from different municipalities in Region 12 had surrendered in batches to units of PRO-12

in the past 24 months.

Macaraeg declined to reveal the names of the 15 NPAs who returned to the fold of law Wednesday for security reasons.

The NPA has a reputation for venting ire on members who have surrendered to the government and their relatives.

BARMM welcomes new JICA rep...from P1

helpful as we continue to work in achieving a transparent, inclusive, and responsible government anchored to the principles of Moral Governance,” he added.

During a brief meeting, Minister Pacasem welcomed the successor of Ebisawa who will have another station of assignment in the country.

Mr. Ide Soichiro has

replaced Ebisawa as the new JICA representative for BARMM.

“Mr. Ide Soichiro, we welcome you to the Bangsamoro Government as we embark on another milestone in advancing financial and budget management in Bangsamoro, MFBM remains committed to working with you," Minister Pacasem said.

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, 2022 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Hunyo 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: Oct. 29, 2022

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, 2022 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Hunyo 2022.

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

MC: Oct. 29, 2022

Japan, through JICA, has been a leading figure among international partners of the Philippine government in working for the achievement of lasting peace and development peace in southern Philipines, Especially in the Bangsamoro region.

The agency has been providing financial and technical support to the Bangsamoro region.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 12TH Judicial Region BRANCH 27 Cotabato City Special Proceeding No. 2022-1582

IN THE MATTER OF DROPPING THE SURNAME OF THE FATHER AND USING THE SURNAME OF THE MOTHER. MUNEER MUHAYMEEN MANTAWIL MIMBALA, Petitioner, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, and OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL, LEGASPE VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY, Respondents.

ORDER

A verified petition was filed by petitioner, assisted by counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the Office of the Local Registrar of Cotabato City, to make the necessary correction in the Certificate of Live Birth of Petitioner particularly the surname of petitioner’s from MIMBALA TO MANTAWIL.

FINDING the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on December 20, 2022 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, at which place, date and time, any person who may have interest, if any, may show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published in a newspaper 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 at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

Cotabato City, Philippines, this 11th day of October, 2022.

(Sgd.) KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN Presiding Judge

Republic of the

Judicial Region BRANCH 27 Cotabato City

Special Proceeding No. 2022-1581

IN THE MATTER OF DROPPING THE SURNAME OF THE FATHER AND USING THE SURNAME OF MOTHER.

PRINCESS AINON JAARIAHMANTAWIL TUANKALI, RAJA MU’MEEN BIN NASSER MANTAWIL TUANKALI, represented by their mother BAILENG S. MANTAWIL

Petitioners, -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF COTABATO CITY, and OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL, LEGASPE VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY, Respondents.

A verified petition was filed by petitioner, assisted by counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the Office of the Local Registrar of Cotabato City, to make the necessary correction in the Certificate of Live Birth of Petitioner particularly the surname of petitioner’s from TUANKALI TO MANTAWIL.

FINDING the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on December 20, 2022 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, at which place, date and time, any person who may have interest, if any, may show cause why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published in a newspaper 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 at the expense of the petitioner.

SO ORDERED.

Cotabato City, Philippines, this 11th day of October, 2022.

KASAN K. ABDULRAKMAN Presiding Judge

Notice is hereby given that the late ERNESTO R. MAGTULIS, who died intestate on November 18, 1990 at San Diego, California, USA, left parcels of land Lot 4038-A-2, Psd-12000382, area of 417 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70579; Lot 4038-A-9, Psd-12000382, area of 315 sq. mts., TCT No. 70586; Lot 4038-A-10-C-1, Psd-12009187, area of 397 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72334; Lot 4038-A-10-C-2, Psd12-009187, area of 397 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72335; Lot 4038-A-10-C-3, Psd12-009187, area of 400 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72336; Lot No. 4038-A-10-C-4, Psd12-009187, area of 400 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72337; Lot 4038-A-10-C-5, Psd12-009187, area of 400 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72338; Lot 4038-A-10-C-6, Psd12-009187, area of 400 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72339; Lot 4038-A-10-C-7, Psd12-009187, area of 420 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72340; Lot 4038-A-10-C-8, Psd12-009187, area of 2,827 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72341; Lot 4038-A-10-C-9, Psd12-009187, area of 781 sq. mts., TCT No. T-72342, all situated at Bulocaon (formerly Manuangan), Pigcawayan, Cotabato and Lot 4038-A-3, Psd-12000382, area of 315 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70580; Lot 4038-A-4, Psd-12000382, area of 315 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70581, Lot 4038-A-5, Psd-12000382; area of 315 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70582; Lot 4038-A-6, Psd-12000382, area of 418 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70583; Lot 4038-A-7, Psd-12000382, area of 315 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70584; Lot 4038-A-8, Psd-12000382, area of 315 sq. mts., TCT No. T-70585; Lot. 4038-A-10-B, Psd-120008386, area of 367 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71874; Lot No. 4038-A-10-D-1, Psd-12-079691, area of 6,285 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71376; Lot No. 4038-A-10-D-2, Psd-12079691, area of 6,283 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71376; Lot 4038-A-10-D-3., Psd12-079691, area of 6,281 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71376; Lot No. 4038-A-10-D-4, Psd-12-079691, area of 6,279 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71376; Lot No. 4038-A-10-D-5, Psd-12079691, area of 6,281 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71376 and Lot. No. 4038-A-10-D-6, Psd-12-079691, area of 6,328 sq. mts., TCT No. T-71376, all situated in Bo. Manuangan, Pigcawayan, Cotabato are subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of shares before Notary Public Atty. Nasiff Brian O. Meditar as per Doc. No. 86; Page No. 18; Book No. XVIII; Series of 2022.MC: Oct. 29, Nov.

OPAPRU: Gains of normalization...from P1 PRO-12 secures surrender of 15...from P1

Galvez says Bangsamoro government displays resolve to expedite passage of electoral code

Bangsamoro Parliament to expedite passage of electoral code

COTABATO CITY —

Bangsamoro Parliament Floor Leader Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba vowed to expedite the passage of a bill seeking to establish an electoral code for the region.

The BTA is doubling down on the enactment of the code in keeping with the commitment of Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim to have it approved by the first quarter of 2023.

will govern the region’s parliamentary elections is new in the Philippines.

She noted that the passage of such legislation is crucial because BARMM has a parliamentary form of government, which is not the case for the rest of the country.

She said that the rationale for holding public consultations is to facilitate wider participation in legislation and policymaking processes.

Galvez expressed his confidence that the electoral code would be passed on schedule, giving the Commission on Elections,regional political parties and other stakeholders sufficient time to prepare for the 2025 synchronized elections.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim has vowed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Bangsamoro constituents that the passage of the electoral and local governance codes would be hastened for the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to uphold its mandate under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)-led interim government in the region must enact the remaining priority codes, such as electoral, local governance, revenue, and indigenous peoples’ rights during the transition period.

It has already enacted three codes: administrative, civil service, and education.

Today, October 21, the Bangsamoro Parliament concluded the first of a series of public consultations on the region’s proposed electoral law, which outlines the structural, organizational, and procedural rules for regional officials’ elections.

To help improve the proposed electoral code, experts and resource persons from the Commission on Elections, the Philippine National Police, BARMM’s district representatives, election watchdogs, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders shared their inputs, comments, and recommendations for the draft code.

Atty. Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba stressed that the code reflects the uniqueness of elections in the Bangsamoro region, which has a parliamentary form of government.

“It’s going to be novel in the Philippines that’s why our fellow Filipinos

should also keep track, if its going to be beneficial to the Bangsamoro it might also be advantageous to the country,” said Dumama-Alba.

The electoral code, according to Deputy Speaker Atty. Omar Sema, is “at the very core of the democratic process that ensures our people will freely exercise their fundamental right to suffrage, to vote, and to be voted upon, as guaranteed by the 1987 Constitution.”

The proposed measure, he said, must pave the way for genuine, credible, free, honest, open, and orderly elections.

He also said that the Bangsamoro Parliament will ensure that the proposed law will be free of constitutional infirmities.

The first regular election for the Bangsamoro government under the Bangsamoro Organic Law will be held and synchronized with the 2025 national elections.

“By 2025, we expect to engage in political activity in which we will elect our leaders in the regular Bangsamoro government as well as our constituents to local government units,” said Deputy Floor Leader Atty. Raissa Jajurie.

She explained that Parliament wants to ensure that “this political exercise, as well as those that will follow it, reflects the choice of the people in the Bangsamoro and helps define the parliamentary system that we have chosen.”

The BTA’s Rules Committee will proceed to Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi for the next round of public consultations, followed by Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, and Special Geographic Areas.

The Bangsamoro peace process entails the completion of two tracks— normalization and political.

The political track is the setting up of the autonomous government, while the normalization track is the decommissioning of former combatants.

BTA legislators propose establishment of Bangsamoro Veteran Mujahideen Affairs Office

services in the protracted wars for selfdetermination “between the Bangsamoro people and the National Government” for at least 20 years.

Parliament Bill No. 44, also known as the “Bangsamoro Mujahideen Act of 2022,” prioritizes underprivileged veteran mujahideen who could not work due to old age, a lack of required education, or other employment requirements, and must be at least 55 years old at the time the proposed measure is enacted.

While expediting the passage of the proposed measure, the Parliament wants to ensure that the electoral code would be free of any constitutional flaws.

The Parliament’s Rules Committee has started holding the public consultations in Manila today, October 20, with experts and resource persons from the Commission on Elections, the Philippine National Police, and Bangsamoro district representatives

The committee’s chair, Floor Leader Atty. Sha Elijah DumamaAlba, emphasized the importance of holding public consultations to refine the draft electoral code.

According to DumamaAlba, the electoral code that

She also stated that it would provide the government with a better opportunity to take the most beneficial stance for the Bangsamoro people.

“The conduct of public consultations as part of the legislative requirement is important as it engenders transparency and accountability in the process of legislation and provides space for stakeholders and the public in general to participate,” she said, noting that they are adhering to their commitment to enact the code by the timeline.

Deputy Speaker Atty. Nabil Tan stated that getting expert insights and engaging with all sectors of the community is necessary because they will be active participants

in the election.

He added that the code would set the tone for the 2025 elections and provide parameters for the regular parliament elections.

Among the most urgent laws that the BTA must pass before the end of the transition period is the Bangsamoro Electoral Code of 2022, which will prescribe the structural, organizational, and procedural rules for the election of regional officials.

The proposed measure seeks to guarantee that elections are fair, open, and reflective of the true will of the electorate in the region.

The first regular election for the Bangsamoro Government under the Bangsamoro Organic Law shall be held and synchronized with the 2025 national elections.

The rules committee is also calling for position papers in order to solicit feedback on the proposed code.

Another round of public consultation will be held tomorrow, October 21, with election watchdogs and civil society organizations.

The BTA is the interim government of the region during the transition period.

Bangsamoro lawmakers push for bill declaring May 2 as Battle of Bayang Day

COTABATO CITY — A measure declaring May 2 of every year as Battle of Bayang Day has entered on second reading in the Bangsamoro Parliament.

Bill No. 40, originally introduced by nowCongressman ZiaurRahman Alonto Adiong while he was a member of the first BTA Parliament, has been refiled by the Government of the Day.

The proposed bill honors the valor of the Meranao warriors in defending their homeland and religion during the Moro-American war.

local events that helped transform the Bangsamoro society in general,” MP Marjanie Macasalong said during his sponsorship speech on Monday.

Once approved, the Ministry of Public Order and Safety, the Bangsamoro Commission on the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, and other concerned agencies of the BARMM will ensure that the special day is

properly observed.

In addition, the BCPCH, in coordination with the Ministry of Basic, Technical, and Higher Education, will monitor the annual activities prepared and implemented by BARMM government agencies, schools, colleges, and universities.

The proposed legislation was referred to the Committee on Rules for further deliberation.

COTABATO CITY — The Bangsamoro Parliament is pushing for the establishment of an office that will provide assistance to underprivileged veteran mujahideen in the region.

A Bangsamoro Veteran Mujahideen Affairs Office will be established under a proposed measure refiled by the Government of the Day to provide financial, medical, social, and other assistance to Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front veterans who have rendered revolutionary

Once approved, qualified beneficiaries will receive a monthly allowance, free medical assistance from any Ministry of Health-supervised facility, health centers, or hospitals, and will be excluded from any Bangsamoro government taxes, fees, and other charges.

The BVMAO’s operation will be supervised and controlled by the Ministry of Public Order and Safety, with three divisions, including processing and validation, benefit availment, and monitoring evaluation.

PB No. 44 has entered second reading and was referred to the Rules and Finance and Budget Management committees.

The American expeditionaray forces stormed Kota Pandapatan in Bayang, Lanao del Sur, on May 2, 1902, sparking the first battle between the Moro and the American army.

“We seek the approval of this measure to place this special day permanently in the consciousness of the people, and remind citizens of the legacy of their ancestors, and to immortalize pivotal

By: LTAIS-Public

COTABATO CITY — Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, said that the Bangsamoro government has shown “moral conviction” to uphold their commitment to the President of enacting the proposed electoral code in the first quarter of 2023.

Nine bills enter first reading in the Bangsamoro Parliament

contracts.

Sema also filed PB No. 57, the Bangsamoro Tripartism and Social Dialogue Act, which requires organizations representing both employers and employees to participate in the Bangsamoro Government’s policymaking, consultation, and decision-making processes.

The proposed bill shall apply to all private businesses in the BARMM and Bangsamoro civil service, including government-owned or controlled corporations, state and local universities and colleges, and local government units.

The Bangsamoro Magna Carta for Workers in the Informal Economy (PB No. 58) establishes a framework for workers to be legally recognized, included in, and eventually transition to the formal economy.

Children and dependents of BARMM employees, barangay health workers, and families of Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front are eligible to apply for a five-year medical scholarship through the Ministry of Health. The program is also open to health professionals working in government health offices and graduates of premedical or related courses residing in the region who are not enjoying any scholarships.

Tuition, miscellaneous fees, laboratory fees, student fund, books, uniforms, basic equipment, monthly lodging, living subsidy, transportation, school supplies, miscellaneous allowance, fees for licensure review and examination, and PhilHealth insurance will all be covered for a Bangsamoro medical scholar under the proposed measure.

Among the proposed legislation are the Bangsamoro Medical Scholarship Act of 2022; Bangsamoro Government Center 2024; Bangsamoro Medical School Act of 2023; Bangsamoro Nutrition Act of 2022; Bangsamoro Public Service Eligibility Equivalency Act; Bangsamoro Tripartism and Social Dialogue Act; Bangsamoro Magna Carta for Workers in the Informal Economy; Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code of 2022; and Bangsamoro Halal Food Act of 2022.

MP Romeo Sema, a labor rights advocate, introduced four bills, including Parliament Bill Nos. 56, 57, 58, and 59.

According to Sema, various sectors and local government units in BARMM’s five provinces and two cities participated in extensive consultations to help draft PB No. 59, also known as the Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code of 2022.

“The proposed BLEC emphasizes the development of human capital, enhanced and expanded labor and social protection coverage not only to regular workers but includes the differently-abled persons, elderly workers, non-plantilla workers in the public sector, and informal sector workers, among others,” Sema said.

PB No. 56, also known as the Bangsamoro Public Service Eligibility Equivalency Act, grants civil service eligibility and permanent appointment to all Bangsamoro government employees who have completed at least three years of satisfactory government service under casual and contractual, job order, contract of service, memorandum of agreement, memorandum of understanding, and similar

It seeks to promote, protect, and fulfill the right of all Bangsamoro workers in the informal economy to decent work, including but not limited to: adequate earnings and productive work; reasonable working time; equal opportunity and treatment in employment; a safe work environment; access to social protection; self-organization and representation in policy making and consultations; the right to stability and security in and around the workplace; the right to education, lifelong learning, and skills development; among others.

MP Susana Anayatin and several lawmakers refiled medical bills that would address the issue of the lack of medical schools and doctors in the region.

Parliament Bill No. 53, or the Bangsamoro Medical School Act of 2023, aims to provide the Bangsamoro young people with highly accessible, affordable, comprehensive, and rewarding medical education.

The institution shall offer a Doctor of Medicine degree and other related academic programs in order to give advanced instruction and professional training in scientific, technological, and special teaching in the field of medicine.

This will primarily benefit Bangsamoro young people and may extend its services in addition to other existing medical schools.

The Bangsamoro Medical Scholarship Act of 2022 seeks to address the shortage of doctors and provide the best healthcare service to the people of the BARMM by producing more competent, committed, and communityoriented medical doctors.

Anayatin also filed PB No. 52, which will establish a Bangsamoro Government Center in another place within Cotabato City.

Under the proposed bill, the BGC will be separated from the commercial, financial, and schools within the area of Governor Gutierrez Avenue to create opportunities for progress and spur development in the other portion of the city while reducing traffic congestion within its current location.

Two bills, the Bangsamoro Nutrition Act of 2022 and the Bangsamoro Halal Food Act of 2022, were introduced in the plenary by MPs Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr. and Amilbahar Mawallil.

In order to combat hunger and malnutrition in the region, the Bangsamoro government is required by PB No. 55 to establish a mechanism for facilitating collaboration and cooperation among various agencies, sectors, and stakeholders.

This shall be carried out through policies, plans, monitoring, and programs that are responsive to the needs of their constituents by the Bangsamoro Nutrition Council.

The promotion, packaging, labeling, display, sale, preparation, and serving of halal food are all subject to rules laid down in PB No. 60, also known as the Bangsamoro Halal Food Act of 2022.

The proposed legislation prohibits making any claims, whether verbal or written, that could lead a reasonable person to believe that a non-halal food or food product is halal.

THE Development Academy of the Bangsamoro proposed a P51 million budget in the 2023 Bangsamoro Expenditure Program.

In its function as the Bangsamoro government’s central human capital development training and research arm for its agencies and personnel, the Bangsamoro Academy will allocate resources toward BARMM human capital development and policy promulgation.

The DAB presented its budget to the Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management Subcommittee C in a meeting presided over by MP Marjanie Macasalong.

SINCE health is one of the Bangsamoro government’s top priorities for its proposed budget for 2023, the Ministry of Health proposed a total of P5.69 billion to help make healthcare services in the region better and more accessible.

The Bangsamoro Parliament’s Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management Sub-Committee B, chaired by Deputy Speaker Atty. Paisalin Tago, scrutinized the ministry’s proposed budget.

A large chunk of the budget is allotted to COVID-19 response programs, which include health human resources for isolation facilities; continuous health service operations for hospitals and public health offices; construction of health facilities; and acquisition of new health and medical-related equipment.

The MOH is responsible for formulating, planning, implementing, and coordinating policies and programs for health.

THE Bangsamoro Women’s Commission presented its proposed budget of P81 million for 2023 before the Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management subcommittee F, chaired by MP Engr. Aida Silongan.

The budget is intended to support the commission’s operations in policy development and capacity building; monitoring and evaluation; coordination and public engagement; women, peace, and security; and women’s participation in political empowerment.

The BWC is the primary policy-making, coordinating, and monitoring body for women, gender, and development in the Bangsamoro region.

It seeks to promote, protect, and uphold women’s rights as human rights to eliminate all types of discrimination against women as well as to ensure that legal measures are taken to promote gender justice and women’s rights

THE Bangsamoro Parliament’s Committee on Accounts convened to start discussing the Parliament’s proposed budget for 2023.

The Finance Service presented the BTA’s budget utilization for 2022.

Other BTA offices will also present their proposed annual work and financial plan for next year.

The committee, chaired by Deputy Floor Leader Atty. Tarhata Basman, has jurisdiction over all matters pertaining to the review and assessment of the Parliament’s budget.

AS the human rights institution of the Bangsamoro, the region’s human rights

commission has proposed a P114 million budget for 2023. Members of the

Bangsamoro Parliament’s Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management Sub-Committee F, chaired by MP Engr. Aida Silongan, asked the BHRC’s officials about what they had done in different human rights cases in the region.

They also asked about how the budget for 2022 was utilized and how the budget for 2023 would be implemented.

The BHRC allocated funds for human rights

investigation; legal assistance; monitoring of jail and detention facilities; financial aid to victims and witnesses of human rights violations; research, investigation, and documentation on social injustices; human rights education and training program; and human rights public awareness program.

The BHRC promotes and protects human rights and upholds international humanitarian law.

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

COTABATO CITY— Nine legislative measures were filed and refiled by several Bangsamoro legislators to improve the lives of Bangsamoro workers and medical students, combat malnutrition and hunger, and standardize the distribution of halal food.

Church growth, credibility depends on Gospel witness

Asian

remains a minority religion throughout Asia at a press briefing this week for the ongoing Asian bishops’ meeting in Thailand.

“The credibility of the Christian faith depends mainly on the witness of the lay people,” said

Cardinal Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovitvanit, archbishop of Bangkok.

He was responding to a question why Christianity

According to him, the “witness of the laity” who are “immersed in the life of society” could effectively help in the work of evangelization.

“[They] give witness to the people of other faiths,” he said.

In his message for the general conference of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences,

Pope Francis highlighted the important role of lay people in the Church.

“Let the laity assume their baptism, their function as laypersons,” the pope said.

Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay stressed that synodality entails church leaders and lay people working together in fulfilling the mission.

“And I do feel the necessity of the laity getting involved in all Church projects,” he said.

Roy Lagarde/CBCP News

Islamist rebels kill nun, six others at Catholic hospital in DR Congo

A Catholic nun serving in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was among the seven people killed Wednesday evening, Oct. 19, when gunmen aligned with the Islamic State attacked a Catholic mission hospital in a raid.

Sister Marie-Sylvie Kavuke Vakatsuraki and six patients at the hospital were killed Oct. 19 when gunmen with the Allied Democratic Forces raided Maboya village, in the country’s northeast province of North Kivu, International Christian Concern reports.

Several people who work or live near the hospital, including two nuns, were missing in the wake of the attack and are feared to be abducted by the raiders, according to International Christian Concern.

The Allied Democratic Forces are rebels from neighboring Uganda. They are aligned with the Islamic State. The group of gunmen which attacked Maboya also stole drugs and medical equipment from the hospital, and set it on fire.

Bishop Melchisédec Sikuli Paluku of Butembo-Beni lamented the killings and strongly condemned the attack. Sister Marie-Sylvie was a medical doctor and a member of the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Presentation of Our Lady at the Temple, the bishop said.

“May the soul of our dear Sister Doctor Marie-Sylvie Kavuke Vakatsuraki, who passed away in the service of her brothers and sisters, rest in peace through the mercy of God!” Paluku said in an Oct. 20

statement obtained by ACI Africa, CNA’s partner agency.

“Words cannot express the horror that has more than crossed the threshold!” he added.

Paluku deplored the burning of the hospital and the theft of medicine and equipment. The medical facility is run by the diocese’s Office of Medical Works, the bishop said.

The bishop voiced his condolences to the whole village and reassured them of the diocese’s prayers. He also voiced his condolences to Sister Marie Sylvie’s biological family, to the medical profession, and to all the Little Sisters of the Presentation.

There have been multiple attacks from the Allied Democratic Forces and the attacks appear to be increasing throughout October. The rebel group is engaged in a campaign to impose their vision of Islam on the region.

On Oct. 4, some 20 Christians were killed in Kainama in North Kivu, International Christian Concern reports. The group says there have been daily reports of Allied Democratic Forces attacks in the two provinces of North Kivu and Ituri.

In early February, a Catholic priest was murdered by armed men in the North Kivu territory of Lubero while he was returning to the parish of St. Michael the Archangel in the Butembo-Beni diocese.

The story of Zacchaeus is one of those stories that lends itself to an easy and interesting dramatization, just like the story of the Prodigal Son or the Good Samaritan. If I were a catechist I would assign the different characters of the story to the children for instant role playing. There is Jesus followed by his close disciples. There is Zacchaeus on a branch of a tree waiting for Jesus to pass by. There are the members of the crowd making negative remarks about Jesus and Zacchaeus. I would add some children laughing at the spectacle of Zacchaeus on the tree. The dialogue is easy, beginning with Jesus telling Zacchaeus. “Come down, I will stay in your house today.”

Zacchaeus, Come Down

Reflections

THAILAND — Asia’s Catholic leaders gathered in Thailand are working on a new document that outlines their work and mission in the years ahead.

Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), said the document would be reflective of the emerging pastoral needs of the people.

“That final document is the resolutions of the works that we are focusing on for the coming years,” Bo said in a press conference on Monday.

Around 200 cardinals and bishops from across the region are currently gathered in Sam Phran district of Nakhon Pathom, near Bangkok, since Oct. 12 for the FABC general conference.

Organizers said the ongoing meeting is the largest gathering of Asian bishops so far in FABC’s 50 years of history.

Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay said several consultations were held at the regional level to identify the “concerns, challenges and opportunities” that both the Church and society are facing.

“Having put all those together, we identified some of the concerns which were given to us, and then we had now the whole conference trying to respond, taking that already as a basis,” he said.

Among these challenges, he said, include issues on human rights, migration,

environment, poverty, natural calamities, women, and political instability.

“Now, the bishops here, representing the different Churches in Asia, are reflecting on how exactly we can promote human rights, how exactly we can promote human dignity, how exactly we can ensure justice, and peace, and reconciliation,” Gracias said.

The cardinal, who is also the convenor of this year’s FABC conference, said the meeting’s objective “is really reflecting on the richness of Asia”.

“We want to commit ourselves, the FABC, not only for a better Church but for the better Asia all over,” he said. “That, I think, is what we are going to discern”.

“At the end of this meeting, we will present a message to the people of Asia, and also begin the elements of the final document, which will be like a guide document or a pastoral plan for the churches of Asia,” he added.

The 18-day gathering will end with a Mass to be presided over by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who is Pope Francis’ special envoy to the FABC conference, on Sunday, Oct. 30.

The pro-prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization is arriving Thailand on Oct. 29, where he is also set to have a closed-door meeting with the bishops. Roy Lagarde

That Zacchaeus was on the tree branches was already a funny scene. He was a wealthy man and the head tax collector but he was short. That he took to the tree branches only emphasized his being short. He was an important man but he did not care for his dignity by climbing a tree just to see Jesus. In those days the task of collecting taxes was auctioned by the Romans for a particular district. When a person wins the bidding he must immediately pay the Romans the amount of the winning bid. It was now up to him and his agents to recover what they paid and whatever profit they can make. As expected, in this system the tax collector would demand exorbitant taxes from the people. That is why they are hated by their own countrymen and were considered as public sinners.

Jesus chose to enter the house of Zacchaeus, a sinner. This was unheard of. A rabbi and a prophet should keep oneself pure. By entering the house of a sinner he was likely to be contaminated. The opposite

happened. By entering the house of Zacchaeus, he purified it. Zacchaeus was converted. He decided to change his ways by giving half of his property to the poor. He also promised to return four times what he got from anyone he cheated. According to Jewish law if one voluntarily reimburses someone he cheated he has to add one-fifth of the amount. If one is caught actually cheating then he must return four times the amount. Zacchaeus voluntarily chose the heavier penalty. By these actions, Zacchaeus became a disciple as Jesus said, “Salvation has come to this house today, for he is also a true son of Abraham. The Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10).

If you were to be part of this drama, what role would you be playing according to your own situation as of now? Would you be Zacchaeus, or the gossiping members of the crowd? Would you be laughing at Zacchaeus or would you admire him? Would you be one of the disciples, puzzled at what Jesus was doing? Would you be able to put yourself in the place of Jesus and take the risk of being criticized for consorting with sinners?

The issue at hand is, why does Jesus make friends with the sinners? Jesus once said it is the sick who need the doctor This is the second consecutive Sunday that the gospel reading speaks of the sinner being forgiven and accepted by Jesus and both characters were publicans. It is the lost who have to be found. It is the least who have to be given attention. It is the sinner who needs forgiveness. If we recognize our own need for forgiveness and salvation then we would love what Jesus did.

Daily Scripture Readings

Mon

Readings: no. 485, p. 1702

1st Reading: Philippians 2.1-4 Gospel: Luke 14.12-14

Readings: Lect., S&S, no. 667, p. 813; BG, p. 442

1st Reading: Revelation 7.2-4, 9-14

2nd Reading: 1 John 3.1-3 Gospel: Matthew 5.1-12a

A number of readings are available for use today Lect., S&S: no. 668, pp. 816-826; Lect., Wkday B: no. 668, pp. 1867-1869; Lect., Ritual: nos. 1011-1016, pp. 834-880; Book of Gospels:no. 668, pp. 429 and 443 and no. 1016,pp. 815-831. See Ordo for details.

Readings: no. 488, p. 1708

1st Reading: Philippians 3.3-8a++ Gospel: Luke 15.1-10

Readings: no. 489, p. 1710 or no. 670, p. 1869

1st Reading: Philippians 3.17-21; 4.1 Gospel: Luke 16.1-8

Readings: no. 490, p. 1712

1st Reading: Philippians 4.10-19 Gospel: Luke 16.9-15

THAILAND—

“ Jesus once said it is the sick who need the doctor ”

Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay and Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon after speaking to the press about the ongoing general conference of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences in Thailand, Oct. 24, 2022. Photo courtesy of Roy Lagarde

KEVIN J. JONES with reports from Jude Atemanke/Catholic News Agency

Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCCtonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com

The past few weeks have been a stressful time for the residents of the BARMM - Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao –due to a number of threats to peace that happened in the area. Holdups of business establishments, ambushes, escalation of REDOs, the terrible vehicular traffic in areas where the BARM was said to be needed most. Ask the old residents of the place, Cotabato City in particular, what they found strange in the establishment of the BARMM. True, the Bangsamoro Extension Authority was designed to help in the transition (from ARMM to the new BARMM), but the transition happens at a snail’s pace, and the new appointees to the BTA still needs much coaching. Could the national government help in fast tracking this transition?

The Bangsamoro Organic Law mandates the interim chief minister to submit to the BTA within the first 60 days of the transition period a transition plan containing the Bangsamoro government’s “proposed organizational plan, as well as, the schedule for implementation therefor.” It also requires the approval or action of the BTA on the proposed plan within 10 days upon its submission. If there is failure to act upon the plan within 10 days, the plan would be automatically approved and implemented within 15 days. According to Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim, the start of the transition period for the purpose of submitting the transition plan was on March 29, or the inaugural session of the interim parliament. The plan’s deadline was stated to be in May 2019.

However, the presidential elections moved this deadline to a later date, presumably on 2025. This and the appointment of new members of the BTA parliament proved to contribute to the slow development of “priority legislation” enumerated in the Bangsamoro Organic Law.The Bangsamoro Transition Authority has acted as the Bangsamoro Parliament under an interim basis. There has been two meetings under the BTA acting as the interim parliament; the 1st (2019–2022) and the 2nd parliaments (2022–present). We are wondering whether the new deadline will be met following this pace of work.

Fortunately, the old ARMM has already made an assurance that the development during the BARMM will build on what has been accomplished by ARMM. The new investments that came at the latter phase of the ARMM has continued, and were found to be helping in providing a stimulus for more investments. This was found primarily in the greater help provided by JICA – the Japan International Cooperating Agency, the AISEED – the Spanish government assistance to the islands coursed through the IAG – the Institute for Autonomy and Governance, and the UN offices who responded to the Donor requests. We also wish to congratulate the new and former members of BTA who are in the forefront of vital activities.

We hope to see continued efforts in the new investments, in the continued programs for unity among the Muslims, Non-Muslims Indigenous Peoples, and the Migrant Settlers (Christians and other NonMuslim residents of BARMM), but especially to the security imposed by the military. MC

It is that time of year when practically all roads in the country lead again to cemeteries, memorial parks, and all other places where our dearly departed are buried. November 1 and 2 – All Saints Day and All Souls Day, collectively referred to as “Undas” – has traditionally been the time to gather and visit tombs of the dearly departed to light candles, offer flowers and prayers, and for quite a big number of families to share food.

In the Catholic tradition, All Saints’ Day commemorates all the saints in heaven. The feast dates back to the early Church, when communities would gather and celebrate the anniversary of the martyr’s death.

All Souls’ Day which follows All Saints Day on 2 November is also known as the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed and the Day of the Dead. It is a day of prayer and remembrance for the souls of those who have died.

As Filipinos gear up for the occasion, Fr. Antonio Labiao of Caritas Philippines urged the public to keep cemeteries “trash-free” and preserve their sacredness. Interviewed early this week on Radio Veritas, Labiao appealed to Filipinos “to make this year’s observance of Undas different from the pre-pandemic celebrations, which were marred by tons of garbage left by cemetery visitors and vendors.” This is the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 that cemeteries will be allowed to open. An influx of people is expected, and with it the possibility of a great deal of trash in cemeteries. Labiao said keeping cemeteries clean is part of the people’s responsibility to care for Mother Nature:

“It’s our shared responsibility to ensure that our environment, which includes us all, is protected against practices that pollute and degrade it.”

Environmental watchdog EcoWaste Coalition similarly emphasized the importance of being mindful not to litter the cemeteries when they visit the graves of their deceased loved ones on November 1 and 2. The group held a rally at the Manila North Cemetery on Tuesday, October 25, to encourage the public to “Untrash Undas: Enforce B.T.S. (Bawal mag Tapon sa Sementeryo).”

EcoWaste Zero Waste Campaigner Jove Benosa urged the faithful to be responsible by bringing their trash with them as they leave the cemetery or to dispose of their trash properly. Benosa appealed to fellow Filipinos to make this year’s observance of

Insupport to local DRRM efforts, community preparedness in rising water levels, we have come up with a Rolling Peace Table with a Floater Vessel, and equipped also with a Floodlight Distress Signal especially for school grounds in aid of schoolchildren, and also for homes and offices. It is roller-wheeled and its second level is a compartment to fill provisions and life-vests with. Good also to carry important materials such as books, annual, quarterly, monthly, reports, as well as records of legislations and of regional budget deliberations. One may donate one for a school considering topmost, the welfare of school children.

Good friend Prof. Mansoor Limba asks on an FB repost if a forewarning I wrote on December 20,, 2022, has yet come to pass, citing the massive floods triggered by continuous rains starting at Friday early dawn through midmorning. Another friend Josol Tayuan says it has.

But for me it hardly has. The first person I called up to at past 3:00 a.m. was friend and relative Tulondatu “Dhats” Piang to check on the water level at Dapdap in RH 3. Dhats told me in Maguindanaon: “This is now what you have been saying,” referring to an op-ed article I wrote on this space which I also posted on Facebook.

Since then, a warning has been posted on the side of the Quezon Avenue gate of a construction site that they would confiscate any camera that would be brought anywhere near the gate premises.

Baka nga patikim pa lang iyan (floods from heavy rains). I have still my youngest enrolled at a Catholic school next to Dapdap, and I could imagine the school ground flooded by heavy downpours on the surface of the Tantawan or Pedro Colina Hill, draining down its through own catch basin that in turn empties downslope to the north by the Bagua and Manday Creek, and to the east by the Maguindanao creek, straight to Kakar and left across the Quezon Avenue, Jose Lim Sr. St. and Tabunaway Boulevard by to city waterfront by the Matampay River.

Oh yes, my model is designed for a safe REFUGE in transition between the first strike of a rising water-level to the time the rescue operations of the local DRRMC

Undas different from the pre-pandemic celebrations, marred by tons of garbage left by cemetery visitors and vendors. According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, a total of 14 trucks of garbage were collected from the 27 cemeteries in Metro Manila following the commemoration of All Saints Day and All Souls Day in 2019. A similar situation or something close to it could be similarly assumed in most other parts of the Philippines, especially in big urban and rural centers given the Filipinos’ reverence for the dead.

Even as everyone of us is reminded to be mindful of the environment and keep cemeteries “untrashed”

this Undas, it is also equally important to remind ourselves of the real purpose of the occasion; that more than being an occasion of “rather inappropriate practices such as gambling, excessive drinking, and the littering of cemeteries,” it is meant to be a solemn commemoration of prayer and remembering departed loved ones.

Fr. Charles Belmonte, a theologian with more than 30 years of pastoral work experience in the Philippines and author of “Prayers for the Dead,” said the vast crowds that flock to the cemeteries on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day show that people in the Philippines are openly pious. However, he observes that there is a need for a greater understanding for the Christian reverence for the dead as well as of the meaning of Christian death among Filipinos. “Tombs are cleaned and repainted, flowers are offered and candles are lit, but many might have forgotten the significance of these commemorations as seen in the general lack of atmosphere of prayer in the cemeteries or during wakes,” he said.

Indeed, that is something important to also be mindful of even as we all collectively seek to achieve a trash-free Undas 2022.

comes into the flooded community. It is NOT designed for RESPONSE nor is it for a RESCUE use.

When the national government had the ‘Project Noah’ paper concept (2005-2010), I designed a model of a floating bed. But the DOST never paid attention to it (as its regional office then was too focused on its development of the S&T of halal development), until the Project Noah— which was apparently patterned after the Project Nuremberg—was finally dissolved. Now, beds are sinking!

As early as 3:00 a.m. Friday, I kept posting to remind friends, thus: “Ingatan mga saksakan/ OUTLETS ng kuryente sa tumataas na level ng tubig. OR i-or where they are below installed knee-level, i-OFF na lang sa corresponding breaker switch for safety!”

One even LOL’d, as I foresaw in my December 2020 post, that water level could rise right next to where a “marshy” catch basin along Lawasa Magindanao has been earth-filled!

Some barangays elsewhere procure speed boats for BDRRMC. But that would seem unfit (ALANGANIN) because fiber glass boats are designed for rescue operations—and so are the inflatable rubber boats; NOT for a REFUGE in incidents of rising water level. Worse yet, it’s too hot to the eyes of burglars, aside from the fact that it has a relatively lighter buoyant capacity

Our design of a Peace Table with a Vessel Floater is such that it can be used as conversational or study table for the students off-seasons of disaster or of rising water level. It has a buoyant capacity of 589 kilograms per my computation applying Archimedes Principle on the Law of Buoyancy.

Memories: Livingand Dead

PASTand present ought to be lessonlearned for the living to adopt a better future here and the hereafter. For what is earthly life really all about?

In Life, we are servants of two unseen masters that we allow ourselves to be used for our own survival at their delights. We either do good or evil, lawful or unlawful for money-sake and other lucrative concessions at stake in the world we are now.

Destruction of precious lives and properties are almost day-to-day activities by men and nature. Global news headlines at a glance, stagger imaginations to wonder, what lies ahead in the digital age of the millennials?

Can we really have genuine, lasting and durable peace, as most politicians mouth if laws on security, prosperity and coexistence are enacted? Since time immemorial till now, peace has remained so elusive despite money to temporarily appease them. That even in death, the living would declare to the departed Rest in Peace.

On Monday, an MNLF commander was reported killed inside his residence in Midsayap, North Cotabato while watching TV. Unknown suspect armed with .45 caliber pistol fled toward Datu Piang in Maguindanao.

Shortly after, a certain Yasser Manalondong was shot dead along national highway of Pagalungan in Maguindanao. Suspect and motive behind the shooting still being ascertained by authorities.

Relatives and friends of victims are crying for justice, including the recent killing of Datu Jamal Sinsuat, a prominent member of a political clan in DOS, Maguindanao.

An elected first-timer Councilor Moby Abubakar of Montawal, Maguindanao Sur was shot dead on Monday at national highway of Barangay Pagagawan, Montawal while aboard his pick-up vehicle. An ironic passing away of Abubakar

who chairs the municipal council’s Peace and Order Committee.

These provincial atrocities including the death of radio commentator Percy Lapid in Las Pinas City and other more recent killings by so-called “gun-for-hire” have made some meticulous people to wonder of the PNP down trend crime rate of 11.98 percent in 2022.

Notwithstanding this year’s Pikit town “rido” or vendetta killing between two Moro factions that left four dead, followed by the broad daylight gun attack that killed two women, according to local authorities.

BARMM election-related violence accounted to 13 fatalities that concerned authorities declared “at times high or low, but admitted security concern still is the issue,” an ANC report bared.

With all these killings here and there, notwithstanding the still on-going armed conflict in Ukraine with Russia plus the seemingly non-stopped natural catastrophes in quakes, floodwaters brought about by frequent typhoons. That as of this week the PH has its 16th tropical depression for 2022 code-named Paeng, prompting many to wonder about the present sorrow and life’s tribulation that the world has to persevere and endure in faith.

GOD’S TIME FOR EVERYTHING

TIME to be born and a time to die. For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing. Nevermore will they have a share in anything done under the sun, for God has already accepted man’s deeds.

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work, device, knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going (Ecclesiastes).

Concerning the resurrection of the dead, Jesus Christ said: “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. God is not the God of the dead, but of the living” (Matthew 22).

An introduction to Kidneys

Thekidneys are bilateral organs placed retroperitoneally in the upper left and right abdominal quadrants and are part of the urinary system. Their shape resembles a bean, where we can describe the superior and inferior poles, as well as the major convexity pointed laterally, and the minor concavity pointed medially.

The main function of the kidney is to eliminate excess bodily fluid, salts and byproducts of metabolism – this makes kidneys key in the regulation of acid-base balance, blood pressure, and many other homeostatic parameters.

The kidney is a very important organ in regards to body homeostasis. It participates in vital processes such as regulation of blood osmolarity and pH, regulation of blood volume and blood pressure, production of hormones, and filtration of foreign substances.

In general, the amount of blood in the body is 5 liters. Any excessive amount of fluid will increase the pressure on the arterial wall and cause the blood pressure to rise (hypertension). Luckily, the kidneys also feel this increase of pressure, and in cases when this happens, they increase the filtration rate of blood and production of urine, which subsequently leads to the increase fluid excretion and decrease of blood pressure. Of course, if the situation is the other way around (less than 5 liters of blood), blood pressure is too low (hypotension). Hypotension is a stimulus for the kidneys to increase the retention of fluid and thus increase blood pressure.

Besides blood volume and pressure regulation, kidneys also participate in the production of calcitriol (the active form of vitamin D). Also, in situations with notable blood losses, kidneys release a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates bone marrow to produce more blood cells.

a special system for the excretion of hydrogen ions, and in that way consistently maintain the pH of blood at 7.4. The opposite situation is possible too, if the kidneys excrete too many hydrogen ions, the pH of blood becomes too alkaline, and leads to a state called alkalosis.

The kidneys have their anterior and posterior surfaces. The anterior surface faces towards the anterior abdominal wall, whereas the posterior surface is facing the posterior abdominal wall. These surfaces are separated by the edges of the kidney, which are the major convexity laterally, and minor concavity medially. The center of the minor concavity is marked as the hilum of the kidney where the renal artery enters the kidney, and the renal vein and ureter leave the kidney. Learning a quick mnemonic ‘VAD’ can help you remember these structures (renal Vein, renal Artery, Duct a.k.a ureter).

The kidneys are positioned retroperitoneally, meaning that they are not wrapped with the peritoneal layers the way most abdominal organs are, but rather are placed behind it. On the other hand, kidneys do have relations with peritoneum, or precisely with the specific organs that are covered with peritoneum which are placed directly adjacent to the kidneys.

If we wanted to examine someone’s kidneys with ultrasound, we definitely must know where to find them. Since they are located deep retroperitoneally, the easiest way to examine them is from the patient’s back.

The kidneys are located between the transverse processes of T12-L3 vertebrae, with the left kidney typically positioned slightly more superiorly than the right. This is because the liver and the stomach offset the symmetry of the abdomen, with the liver forcing the right kidney a bit down, and the stomach forcing the left kidney a bit up. The superior poles (extremities) (T12) of both kidneys are more medially pointed towards the spine than the inferior poles (extremities) (L3).

He also said: “Do not fear those who kill the body, but cannot kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10). The dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live (John 5). MC MC

Cells in our body constantly produce hydrogen ions. An increased amount of hydrogen ions can acidify the blood and cause a state called acidosis. Kidneys have

One distinct feature of Central Mindanao (the former Empire Province of Cotabato) is the winding rivers of the longest river in the country. Called the Rio Grande or the local term Pulangi, it has dictated not only the history of the region, but its economy and social development.

What is disturbing about the recent occurrences is the big flood that is bothering the population in the area. As someone born in the city, I can only remember the big flood that occurred in the city during the early 1960s. With limited communication facilities, the coverage of the flood is limited only to the urban areas, but the strength of the storm then suggests a more serious destruction.

The cause of the flood then was the ever winding rivers that served to distribute the flow of water from the mountains to the open Illana Bay. The solution provided was to straighten the winding rivers to limit the expansion of water to the smaller streams where clusters of population are found.

This time, the region is being devastated by the storm codenamed “Paeng” which started to pour rain as early as of midnight of Oct. 29, 2022. As

a result, almost all areas in Cotabato City, including the municipalities surrounding the city are inundated by water, some even up to the roofs of houses. There were already victims from landslide, accidents, and other calamities due to the heavy rains.

Some of the calamities are attributed to the unexpected heavy rains, but at this time, we can look at the effect of climate change, which is a catch all for many things which cannot be explained caused by extreme weather conditions. Reports from the field were difficult to understand, but one thing is clear: due to the preparations made by government for coming disasters, the impact may be considered not as serious as expected. Considering that the country is located in a vulnerable area of the world, the government will have to be prepared for whatever can be expected from climate change. We have a succession of earthquakes, storms, high temperatures, enough to test the patience of Filipinos.

This is the right time to pray to God to spare us from disaster (although we thank Him for saving us from the likes of Ukraine). It is the time for officials to be actively implementing the promises made during election time; but most of all, this is the time for unity among our people. We have to think of the common good, and not resort to the actions that may solve our individual problems.

The hilum of the kidney usually projects at the level of the L2 vertebra. Thus, the ureter is seen paravertebrally starting from the L2 and going downwards.

and Making Arrangements….

One of the most important factors for great coordination is to identify the persons who would be leading the project or activity and their respective authorities and responsibilities.

“Coordination is critical to any largescale event, that is the lesson we are learning.”—Lynette Miller

We often hear the phrases “failure of coordination” and “poor arrangement” which are usually associated with a failed project or an unsuccessful activity. Mistakes such as these could damage the reputation or image of an organization and those who were negatively affected will view the persons responsible as being incompetent and/or unprofessional.

The common reasons for the so-called “failure of coordination” include: failing to inform certain people or organization; delay in giving out information; inadequacy of information; or wrong information were given out. Poor arrangement could mean that: venue for the activity is inaccessible, distant, or unsuitable for the purpose; a speaker or resource person is not fit or qualified to do the assigned task;

The Oxford Dictionary defines coordination as “the organization of the different elements of a complex body or activity so as to enable them to work together effectively.” It is also defined as “cooperative effort resulting in an effective relationship.”

Arrangement on the other hand is defined as “plans or preparations for a future event.”

The two terms are intertwined and are critical for attaining success for an activity or a project.

Effective and efficient coordination and arrangement are especially important for more complex activities and projects that could involve a large organization or two or more organizations working together for a common purpose or purposes.

What are the ways and means that we can achieve excellent coordination?

Second, establish the lines of communication. Who is supposed to be communicating with each other, particularly when there are different organizations involved or several departments or units within the same organization.

Third, identify and agree on the channels for communication such as via cellular phones, emails, online meeting software (such as Zoom or WebEx), or phone and applications such as Messenger, Viber, FaceTime, WhatsApp, among others.

It is important to also establish the time and frequency of communications, particularly meetings so that all parties will be prepared and available for calls or meetings. Meetings becomes more frequent when the event or major activities draw nearer.

What about arrangements, what can be done to ensure that events or activities are done with better preparations?

First, and perhaps most important, commit to making a written plan for the activity or event that you or the organization is proposing to implement.

Second,, establish the major objectives for your event and the clear outcomes that will be achieved through its implementation. For example, a strategic planning workshop aims at identifying the major programs and projects that an organization will undertake over a certain period of time. The immediate outcome of such an activity could be the draft strategic plan for each operating unit of the organization and eventually the strategic plan for the entire organization.

Third, identify the major sub-activities (and their time frame) needed towards the main event or activity. If an organizing will conduct an investment forum, the sub-activities would include: identifying the topics that will be discussed, selecting the venue for the activity, nominating speakers or presenters, buying materials and so on.

he s tuff of l ife

this due to climate change?

Señase csenase@yahoo.com

e A lth c o R ne R

from Kenhub

“Without coordination, there can never be progress” —Ruxton Adebigi

AR

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late WILMA JEAN DECENA ALIVIO who died on July 21,2021 in Cotabato City, parcels of land Lot 8 B, Psd-12-009743, located in Malagapas, Cotabato City; Lot B-3, Pad-12002487 in Blensong, Upi, Maguindanao; Lot 2488-A-2-A, Psd124709020654 and Lot 2488-A-1-K-2, Psd-12062676; both situated in Katingawan, Midsayap, Cotabato; covered by TCT Nos. T-24477, T-5744, T-88375 and T-1522012000352, respectively, containing the total area of 44,120 sq. mts., more or less are subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Keen John T. Usman as per Doc. No. 411; Page No. 83; Book No. I; Series 2021.

MC:

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ADOLFO T. ADRIATICO and PACIENCIA PEDROLA, who died on November 7, 2012 and November 1, 2017 in Kidapawan City and President Roxas, respectively, a parcel of land Lot 2-T-11, Psd12-004230, situated in Nuangan, Kidapawan, North Cotabato, containing an area of 289 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-66587 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Angeli Ness Casador Evangelista as per Doc. No. 5; Page No. 2; Book No. VIII; Series of 2022.

MC: Oct. 15, 22 & 29, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANDAMAN ANGKAD MANDUGAY, who passed away on April 30, 2015 in Cotabato City, a parcel of land Lot 2, Block 24, Psd123804-019622, situated in Malagapas, Cotabato City containing an area of 120 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-44942 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Atty. Jeihan Jein M. Gulo, RN as per Doc. No. 84; Page No. 17; Book No. III; Series of 2022.

MC: Oct. 15,

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Eldebrando R. Enoc has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Male to Female in the birth certificate of Jeallian T. Enoc who was born on 04 February 2006 at Kidapawan City, Cotabato and whose parents are Eldebrando R. Enoc and Rosemarie L. Tablante.

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

(Sgd.) MERCEDES P. TOLENTINO

Acting City Civil Registrar

:

Indigenous sports revived on IP Day tilt

packaged with a cash prize.

On the other hand, Sipa sa Lama is played by a group around in circle formation. Each player takes a turn-at-a-time hitting the ball up to keep it on air for as long as possible, until a player fails to kick the ball up.

Through the IP Month celebration, BSC encourages the preservation of indigenous sports as a tool for community peace-building and youth development, and be as athletics to foster a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and peaceful coexistence across culturally diverse populations in the Bangsamoro region.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late ROMUALDO T. CATBAGAN, who died on 15 September 2022 in Davao City, left a parcel of land Lot 25-E-1-B, Psd-12-000661, situated in Barrio (Osias) Poblacion, Kabacan, Cotabato, containing an area of 280 sq. mts., more or less is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Joy C. RubillarArao as per Doc. No. 498; Page No. 101; Book No. XXI; Series of 2022.

MC: Oct. 29, Nov. 5 & 12, 2022

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses RUFINO MANDOLADO and RELINDA BACAOCO ROALES, who died on January 29,1998 and September 25, 2021, respectively, both in North Manuangan, Pigcawayan, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 3261-D-27, Csd-12-006033, situated in Manuangan, Pigcawayan, Cotabato with an area of 492 sq. mts., more or less, covered by OCT No. P-61133 is subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous waiver of rights before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 286; Page No. 58; Book No. CCCVI; Series of 2022.

MC: Oct. 15, 22 & 29, 2022

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

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

In compliance with Section 5 of RA 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Celia Niñal Basal has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Arcelia to Celia in the birth certificate of Arcelia Ninal who was born on January 26, 1964 at Magsaysay, Parang, Cotabato and whose parents are Arturo Ninal and Rufina Villarmea.

Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than November 8, 2022.

O. OMAR,

"Aside from the promotion of our cultural sports, we also want the sports commission to revive and preserve our very own games and encourage the current Bangsamoro youth to play them," Caludtiag said.

The event was participated by the Maranao, Maguindanaon, and Iranun players coming from the provinces of Lanao Del Sur, Maguindanao del Sure, and Maguindanao del Norte, and players from Special Geographic Area

(SGA).

.from P1

BSC Director Salihwardi Alba underscored the necessity of promoting and introducing the cultural sports of the Bangsamoro since it has become an indigent game in the present generation.

"This is just the beginning of promoting our own native sports. We will bring these games to other areas in the Bangsamoro region including the island provinces," Alba said. Nash B. Maulana and Kasan Usop

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with the publication requirements and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Aida Alcano Lumogdang has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the certificate of live birth of Kyrielle Rich Caduada Lumogdang who was born on April 16, 2013 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Rogie A. Lumogdang and Noemi P. Caduada.

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

(Sgd.) NORAH B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Oct. 29 & Nov. 5, 2022

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), notice is hereby served to the public that Nevie Tumulac Cabanilla has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth of Nevie Camagos Tomulac who was born on April 5, 1982 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Arcadio C. Tomulac and Bitcherose C. Camagos.

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

NORAH B. CABUGWASON

Oct. 22 & 29, 2022

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

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

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE

PNP, PDEA support Lamitan City anti-narc program

COTABATO

CITY -

Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region, said Wednesday reports reaching his office stated that the Lamitan City local government unit launched on October 21 its Community-Based Rehabilitation Program for Drug Reformists (CBRP-DR).

The program aims to reintroduce to mainstream society people hooked to shabu, or marijuana, for them to thrive peacefully in their respective barangays.

Guyguyon said the program complements their efforts to help transform former drug dependents into productive citizens.

The Lamitan City Police Office and personnel in Basilan of the Philippine Drug Enforcement AgencyBangsamoro Autonomous Region helped the administration of Mayor Roderick Furigay craft the CBRP-DR.

AUTHORITIES are now coordinating the return to its owner in Davao City, possibly next week, of a stolen car policemen recovered Wednesday in Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur.

The Regional Highway Patrol Group-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police are now working on that together, the Mindanao Cross learned

Rogelito Daculla, PDEA-BARMM director, said Wednesday they appreciate the unique program that has comprehensive humanitarian objectives.

He said the PDEA-BARMM will help push the Lamitan City LGU’s CBRP-DR program forward.

The program was launched in Lamitan City in a symbolic event attended by religious leaders, representatives from the police and Army units in Basilan and agents of PDEA-BARMM operating in the island province.

Furigay had earlier said he is thankful to different government entities and the office of Gov. Jim Salliman, chairman of the Basilan provincial peace and order council, for assisting plan the CBRP-DR out, something new in the entire Bangsamoro region.

Lamitan City thrice received

late Wednesday. The police in Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur intercepted Wednesday morning a Toyota Vios car stolen in Davao City whose driver was to bring it somewhere in Zamboanga del Sur.

Col. Jibin Bongcayao, director of the Lanao del Sur provincial police, said Jaime Baria Olarte, the driver of the recovered car, is now detained.

assured support for

Lamitan City local

the vaunted Seal of Good Local Governance, or SGLG award from the central office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government in the past five years.

The DILG’s grant of SGLG to deserving provincial, city and municipal governments is a yearly program, based on the efficiency and sound budget management of recipients and involvement in the government’s peace and security thrusts.

The SGLG award cannot be given to LGUs whose local executives have issues with either the Commission on Audit, or the Ombudsman, or are involved in criminal activities.

The October 21 launching of the program was capped off with counselaing and free drug testing to all beneficiaries from Lamitan City’s more than 40 barangays. John Felix Unson

The dark brown Toyota Vios (LAH 7231), is owned by Susan Montero, a resident of Ecoland Subdivision in Davao City.

Montero’s car, reportedly stolen in Davao City the week before, was intercepted at about 9:00 a.m. at a police checkpoint along a stretch of the Secretary Narciso Ramos Highway in Barangay Daguan in Kapatagan.

Bongcayao said the car is now in the custody of the Kapatagan Municipal Police Station

Probers have found out that the suspected car thief, Olarte, hails from Barangay 13 in Ilawod West, Legazpi City.

He is now locked in a detention facility while the car was impounded at the Kapatagan municipal police. John Felix Unson

A man shot dead a government nurse amid their heated discussion before dawn Thursday in a hospital in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Brig Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region, said the victim, Nelson Mantawil, was declared dead on arrival at the Cotabato City Regional Medical Center here.

Mantawil was a staff nurse in the Dinaig District Hospital in the town proper of Datu Odin Sinsuat.

In a report to Guyguyon’s office in Camp SK Pendatun in Parang

town in Maguindanao, the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police said a certain Bots Nur was responsible for the death of Mantawil.

Mantawil and Nur are both ethnic Maguindanaons, according to sources residing in the town proper of Datu Odin Sinsuat.

The sources said Mantawil and Nur were having a loud altercation over something before shots rang through the hospital building.

The suspect had escaped before responding policemen could reach the scene. John Felix Unson

BARMM Pigcawayan

gets

PIGCAWAYAN, North Cotabato — This town’s 11-barangay cluster of the Bangsamoro Region‘s Special Geographic Area (SGA) is recipient of a P 3 million ice cold facility to boost the local inland fishing economy.

The SGAPigcawayan Cluster was represented by all barangay chairpersons in receiving a P 3-million worth ice block making on Sunday, from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The opening of the facility was attended by UN Assistant Secretary General Ms Kanni Wignaraja.

Interior Deputy Minister Abunawas “Von Al Haq” Maslamama, joined him in behalf of BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim, and Interior Minister Naguib Sinarimboon October 24 2022.

The facility is the project of the BARMM Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG) and the United Nations Development Program in a joint program, the Bangsamoro Integrated Rehabilitation and Development (BIRD) Program.

high-quality solar panels, internal battery storage (2x18KWh), and external power source (fuel generator or grid).

The facility is capable of producing 900 kilograms of ice blocks per day and is expected to boost the local economic activity in the area, especially in fish trading and other added-value products, officials said.

In a social media post, the UNDP underscored that the project “will help the fisherfolk in preserving the freshness of their catch and will also open up new livelihood opportunities like fish sorting for the women’s organizations.”

To ensure quality of ice blocks, raw water will be pumped through several filter stages such as large debris filter, micron disposable filter, carbon filter to add an additional purifying stage, and additional small filter unit to facilitate chlorine tablets if desired.

LGU worker yields P40,800 worth shabu

THE police seized P40,800 worth of shabu from a municipal traffic enforcer entrapped in Kabuntalan, Maguindanao del Norte Wednesday.

Rogelito Daculla, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement

Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said Thursday the 34-year-old Loben Dacayao Agpalo is a member of the traffic enforcement unit of the local government of Kabuntalan.

FOUR persons were injured when they hurriedly escaped by leaping from the second floor of the burning 2-storey home in Midsayap, North Cotabato before dawn Thursday.

Midsayap Bureau of Fire Protection chief Fire Inspector Evelyn Bueno said the fire started at the ground floor of

He was arrested after selling shabu to nonuniformed agents of PDEABARMM and the local police during a tradeoff Wednesday in Barangay Gayonga in Kabuntalan.

Daculla said the suspect was long under

residential house at 2 a.m. in Barangay Poblacion 2, Midsayap, North Cotabato.

“The house was made of light materials so the fire quickly spread to other parts of the house,” Inspector Bueno said.

The injured included a mother and three minors.

surveillance owing to persistent reports on his shabu peddling activities from vigilant residents of Kabuntalan.

Agpalo is now locked in a detention facility of PDEA-BARMM. John Felix Unson

Firefighters from nearby towns of Libungan and Aleosn fire stations helped put off the conflagration.

Midsayap Mayor Rolly Sacdalan visited the victims at the hospital and vowed to provide assistance. They were traumatized by the incident, relatives said. Edwin O. Fernandez

Funded by the UNDP, the solar-powered ice block making facility has been constructed in Barangay Datu Mantil in Pigcawayan Cluster. The fishing community of the BARMM’s 63 will benefit from the project.

MILG Minister Sinarimbo said the livelihood supportfacility is a “joint project of UNDP and our Ministry under our SDF program dubbed BIRD which is aimed at providing ice blocks for preserving the fish and other acquatic resources of our communities around the marsh.”

The facility is powered by a 12Kw of energy from three sources: 24 (550 watt)

An inclusive development program of the Office of the Chief Minister (OCM-BARMM) implemented through the MILG-BARMM, the BIRD program is a 5-year program that aims to contribute in transforming the 63 barangays of the SGABARMM into productive and peaceful communities by responding to the development needs and providing access to basic social services of the Bangsamoro Government.

To provide access to basic services, the MILG through the BIRD Program implements programs that are aimed to 1) improve farm income by increasing agriculture productivity and production; 2) provide physical and social infrastructure; and 3) improve resourcebased management by establishing integrated environmental management projects.

Nash B. Maulana

WHEN MOTHER EARTH RETALIATES. A bridge connecting Datu Odin Sinsuat and Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao is inaccessible, pews of San Isidro Labrador parish church submerged by flood water, a public school in Kurintem, Datu Odin Sinsuat and a pick-up truck are among the casualties of torrential overnight rain spawned by Typhoon Paeng in Maguindanao.

Photo courtesy of Fidel Talabon, Jovilyn Sapi Lumutos & Babo Shiela / photo shared to DXMS

cold facility