The Mindanao Cross | December 25, 2021

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Vol. LXXIII| No. 46| Cotabato City | Saturday, December 25, 2021 |12 Pages P10.00

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U.S. brings in P10-M aid to ‘Odette’ victims

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Bohol bishop calls to ‘set aside politics’ and unite for disaster relief efforts

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BARMM MP files bill to establish Bangsamoro orphanages

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

MAYOR CYN CALLS FOR UNITY

Cotabato City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi has appealed for unity regardless of belief, political conviction and culture as the city commemorates the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival and Christmas Season 2021.

C E N T E R O F C E L E B R AT I O N.The heart of Christmas celebration for Christians is the “Christmas belen” like in this photo at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cotabato City. It is a tableau representing the nativity scene or birth of Jesus Christ in a cowshed.

Karl John Daniel

As one of the most significant celebration, the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival, according to Mayor GuianiSayadi, has relived the rich culture and history of Cotabato City.

“Naway sa panahon ngayong ay ating ding buhayin sa ating mga puso ang pagmamahal sa Cotabato City,” she said in her festival message aired through her Facebook account.

“Ipakita natin sa lahat na ating pinoprotektahan ang ating lungsod at walang sinuman ang maaring sumira ng maayos na samahan ng lahat ng mga Cotabatenio anuman ang lahi, paniniwala at antas ng buhay,” she

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Kabunsuan’s arrival commemorated

By John Felix Unson THE Bangsamoro government capped off with a “Guinakit” fluvial parade its commemoration on Sunday of the arrival here in the 14th century of Shariff Mohammad Kabunsuan from Johore Bahru, now part of Malaysia.

Kabunsuan, an Islamic preacher of mixed Arab and Malay descent, was responsible for organizing the first ever Muslim communities in pagan settlements in what is now Cotabato City and neighboring provinces.

The foreign missionary arrived here from Johore Bahru via the Illana Bay riding a colorful Guinakit watercraft adorned with colorful flags, according to contemporary historians.

Central Mindanao commemorates the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival every December 19, a non-working holiday.

This year’s festival was organized by the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism-

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North Cotabato floods affect 19K individuals KIDAPAWAN CITY — Residents of Pikit and Kabacan in North Cotabato today lauded the quick response from the provincial government of North Cotabato following a flash floods that sent them fleeing to safer grounds.

The displaced families, about 19,000 individuals from the low lying communities in Pikit and Kabacan, have received relief goods and emergency aid from the provincial government of North Cotabato.

North Cotabato Gov. Nancy

By Edwin O. Fernandez Catamco has directed the provincial disaster relief teams before the Kabacan river has overflowed four days after Super Typhoon Odette hit Nothern Mindanao.

“The immediate response was something new to us, we seen government relief workers already near our communities on the day the water level rose,” Abbas Saylon of Barangay Poblacion, Pikit said in the vernacular of the government response.

“In the past, we waited for weeks before government aid come

around,” Saylon said, adding that floods usually hit their village even if there’s no heavy downpour in the province.

“The water from Agusan river causes floods in North Cotabato and Maguindanao,” Saylon. The Maguindanao marshland that also covers North Cotabto serves as catch basin of flood water from Agusan through the Kabacan river.

Engr. Arnulfo Villaros, warning officer of North Cotabato provincial disaster unit, said North Cotabato was not along or

Cotabato City council “makes waves, levels up legislation”

FOR the past few years since its journey as the 16th Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP), headed

by Cotabato City Vice Mayor Graham Nazer G. Dumama, has endeavored to upscale the legislative set-up in the city’s legislative body.

This to provide the necessary support to the executive branch.

By Yeofemia G. Lizada/SP T h e c u r r e n t S P service to our beloved city. leadership also introduced And on March 2, 2021, significant changes in the the city council made city council and enactment history when it enacted of appropriate and timely t h e C o d e o f G e n e r a l l e g i s l a t i v e m e a s u r e s Ordinances of Cotabato as it partners with the City. executive department The enactment in fulfilling the vision of of the Code of General Cotabato City to become Ordinances of Cotabato purveyors of inclusive, City indeed marks another transparent, accountable milestone in the history and excellent public of the Sangguniang

DID YOU KNOW? Evergreens are an ancient tradition The tradition of Christmas trees goes all the way back to ancient Egyptians and Romans, who decorated with evergreens during the winter solstice to signify that spring would return. So if you deck your halls with a green tree, wreaths or evergreen garland, you’re honoring history.

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Panlungsod.

It is a repository of all general ordinances of the city since it became a local government unit.

The codified ordinance lays down the policies and guidelines for effective, straightforward and proper enforcement of local rules in pursuit to balance legislation with good governance.

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December 25, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

U.S. brings in P10-M aid to ‘Odette’ victims

The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing a Php10-million ($200,000) immediate North Cotabato floods affect 19K..from P1 assistance package to help communities devastated by Typhoon Odette, close to the path of Typhoon Odette living near the river banks and but floods still occur due to overflos of low lying areas to immediately flee internationally known as Super Typhoon Rai. water in the area’s huge tributaries. when the water level rises in the

As this developed, the USAID has engaged the Action Against Hunger into partnership in complementing the Philippine government’s relief operations.

The partnership will hasten delivery and provision of food, water, hygiene supplies, and other relief items to people affected by the typhoon in Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands.

The initial USAID assistance efforts will help restore water supply services and sanitation facilities, as well as promote hygiene to keep people safe and healthy.

U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) ad interim Heather Variava extended her deepest sympathies to those affected by Typhoon Odette and assured Filipinos of the United States’ ongoing commitment to providing assistance.

“The United States is providing Php10 million in immediate support, including food and shelter for communities affected by Typhoon Odette,” CDA Variava said. “We are committed to working alongside our friends and partners to provide emergency supplies and recovery assistance.”

USAID works year-round to help communities in the Philippines prepare for and be more resilient to natural disasters.

As part of USAID’s ongoing disaster preparedness assistance, it is supporting the United Nations World Food Program in transporting relief supplies, including enough food provided by the Philippine government to feed 20,000 families, and deploying mobile operations vehicles to support emergency telecommunications.

USAID is also partnering with the International Organization for Migration to help manage evacuation shelters and provide critical relief supplies, including heavy-duty plastic sheeting to meet critical shelter needs for 3,800 families.

The United States will continue to partner with the Philippines to better respond to natural disasters and support Filipinos in their recovery efforts. Since 2010, USAID has provided over Php16.9 billion ($340 million) in disaster relief and recovery aid, and boosted the disaster risk reduction capacity of over 100 cities and municipalities in the Philippines. Nash B.

Maulana

Villaros also appealed to locals

A father-son tandem makes repair works near their home in Pikit, North Cotabato in preparation for more typhoons after Supertyphoon Odette.

Photo courtesy of Pikit MDRRMO/Ameril Bacar

BARMM sends relief support for Dinagat Island THE Bangsamoro government on Wednesday shipped more than 10 tons of food rations and other relief provisions for typhoon-stricken residents of Dinagat Island in Surigao del Norte.

Dinagat Island is one of the areas in Surigao Del Norte province that Typhoon Odette ravaged last week.

The “Tulong para sa Dinagat Island” relief mission of the regional government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao was launched on Monday morning at the 32-hectare BARMM capitol here.

The Ministry of Social Services and Development provided 125,000 kilos of rice, 1,600 water containers and 3,200 boxes of water purifier tablets for the project.

The office of Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo augmented the provisions with 2,000 food packs - comprised of cereals, instant noodles and coffee - via the Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence, or READi contingent, of the regional government.

The Bangsamoro-READi is operating under Sinarimbo’s supervision.

The office of BARMM Chief

marshland.

Minister Ahod Ebrahim also released 1,500 hygiene kits for the Dinagat Island Bangsamoro outreach mission.

Sinarimbo and Social Welfare Minister Raissa Jajurie together led the symbolic dispatch of the relief project, along with emergency responders and rescue experts from the BangsamoroREADi. Sinarimbo said he is thankful to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division based in nearby Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao for helping facilitate the shipment of the relief supplies to beneficiarycommunities. John Felix Unson

RELIEF SUPPORT. Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism Director General Rossalaine AlontoSinarimbo presents the Shariff Kabunsuan festival schedule of activities during a news conference.

Photo courtesy of Jeannifer Tan Sia

BARMM’s MAFAR jumpstarts farm mechanization

THE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ( B A R M M ) h a s jumpstarted the region’s part in the farm mechanization program of the national government by distributing farm machineries to 28 farmers’ cooperatives in Maguindanao, The region’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) made this possible in a partnership with the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DAPHilMech) to benefit farmer cooperatives from Maguindanao as recipients in ceremonies launched Wednesday, Dec. 15.

All 28 Farmer's Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs), with a total of 4,803 farmer-members from different parts of Maguindanao, will benefit from the Php34.665Million nationwide mechanization program.

MAFAR Minister Dr. Mohammad S. Yacob said starting the mechanized farming methods in the Bangsamoro region was timely, a most of the country’s regions are already using farm machineries from land preparation period up to the harvesting season.

DA Secretary William Dar explained the benefits of c o m p r e h e n s i v e mechanization farming in the country which addresses farmers’ concerns on the high production cost and post-harvest losses, as the frequent cases they would encounter in the traditional farming.

“We are very thankful to DA-

National, particularly to PHilMech, for this farm machineries assistance which is surely a big help to our farmers in increasing their farm productivity and could possibly alleviate their poverty living status through this mechanization process,” Yacob said.

Meanwhile, MAFAR Maguindanao Provincial Director Dr. Ronjamin Maulana emphasized the strict selection process that recipients went through. He expressed hopes that with the help of the farm machineries, Maguindanao will soon become among the top rice-producing provinces in the country.

"This program manifests the full commitment of the national government to support and extend assistance packages to the regional government with their trust and confidence to the good leadership of BARMM Government and the MAFAR, in particular," Maulana added.

The distributed agricultural machineries consisted of 12 units of four wheel tractor, 18 units of hand tractor, 10 units of floating tiller, 1 unit Precision Seeder, 6 Units Walk-behind Transplanter, 10 units Reaper, 3 units Combine Harvester, 10 units Axial Flow Thresher, and 1 unit Recirculating Dryer under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF)-Mechanization Component to increase farmers’ productivity, profitability, and competitiveness through mechanized production and post-production systems.

“Today, we turnover various agricultural machineries to enable them

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December 25, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

REYNALBERT O . INSULAR Mayor of South Upi

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THE MINDANAO CROSS

December 25, 2021

Sigay Ka Cotabato City!

ATTY. FRANCES CYNTHIA J. GUIANI–SAYADI City Mayor

THE MINDANAO CROSS

December 25, 2021

Joyful greetings for this season!

It's always a feast in the eyes to see our city dressed in twinkling lights and lively colors; families and loved ones gathered together; good hearts extending help to others in celebration of the Christmas season.

With your constant cooperation, it is now possible for our city to celebrate a more relaxed holiday than what we've had last year. We are indeed grateful to you, our constituents, for the growing discipline and respect towards our current administration.

Truly we have been strong on continuously adjusting from the long-term effect of this pandemic, and as we are nearing the end of this year, let us thank the Almighty God for the guidance on the big decisions we took, for the comfort He sent when we need it the most, and the courageous heart to stand and fight when we must.

Let's continue pushing forward and striving to adapt better to the new normal that the pandemic brings. Merry Christmas and we greet you in advance a prosperous New Year Cotabateños!

Sigay Ka Cotabato City!

GRAHAM NAZER G. DUMAMA City Vice Mayor

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December 25, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Bohol bishop calls to ‘set aside politics’ and unite for disaster relief efforts

A Catholic bishop in Bohol province called on government leaders to set aside politics and instead work together to help the victims of typhoon Odette.

Bishop Alberto Uy of Tagbilaran said politicians must consider the health, safety and welfare of the affected people.

“Now is the time to work together. We must stop political squabbling,” Uy said. “To all leaders, let’s all be united to help all in need.”

He also urged the public to support their local leaders as they do their jobs during these trying times.

“Set aside intrigue and politics,” the bishop said.

Bohol was among the provinces in the Visayas and Mindanao regions that were ravaged by the strongest typhoon to hit the nation this year.

At least 1.8 million people or 452,307 families were affected

by Odette, according to the Department of Social

Welfare and Development.

The death toll has also climbed to 378 on Monday as reported by the Philippine National Police, with scores more missing.

Central Visayas recorded the highest of deaths with 170, followed by Caraga with 167. Western Visayas, meanwhile, recorded 24, Northern Mindanao with seven, Eastern Visayas with six and Zamboanga Peninsula with one death.

The prelate also appealed to the traders to avoid hoarding of basic goods.

Taking advantage of the situation, he said, “is the most unchristian act one can do this time”.

“My appeal to all faithful Boholanos: Stay calm and don’t panic buy. We can only survive this crisis if we start to think of others,” Uy said. CBCP News

Young volunteers help in the Diocese of Tagbilaran’s relief operations for victims of Typhoon Odette in Bohol province on Dec. 20, 2021 Photo courtesy of The Diocese of Tagbilaran

Catholics told: Avoid ‘lavish’ Christmas parties, help typhoon victims

THE head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines called on the faithful to do away with lavish Christmas parties in solidarity with the victims of typhoon “Odette”.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, CBCP President, urged Catholics to instead set aside money for the devastated communities.

“Perhaps instead of spending a

lot on lavish Christmas parties and exchange gifts, we can put together whatever we can and contribute it to relief operations,” David said.

The CBCP has earlier

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Residents salvage belongings from their destroyed houses in Ubay town, Bohol province, a day after Typhoon Odette ravaged the town.

Photo courtesy of The Diocese of Tagbilaran

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ne thing we miss in made his dwelling among us” these times of the (John 1:14). Jesus is God’s pandemic is the gift or “aguinaldo” to us, “For caroling. I mean live caroling.

God so loved the world that There are of course many he gave his only Son, so that Christmas songs we hear over everyone who believes in him the radio or through the social might not perish but might media but we are wary of have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC people coming into our homes One Pinoy Christmas song tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com or we ourselves going around that is played over and over to spread Christmas cheer. We might unknowingly again, is Jose Mari Chan’s Christmas in our Hearts , spread the virus. We also miss the Christmas programs with its chorus “This season may we never forget the love and pageants that children usually present in the schools we have for Jesus.” Another classic Pinoy Christmas during this season. Come to think of it, we miss the song is “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit,” or “Kasadya niining children. Some children approach me after mass in the Taknaa. “ Actually the Cebuano version composed in chapels to make “mano” or “besa” and I usually just 1933 by Vicente Rubi with lyrics by Mariano Vestil was put my hand over their heads. One child complained, the original. It is about the joy brought by the birth of “Why does Father not give me his hand ?” Well, that’s Jesus, “Bag-ong tuig, bag-ong kinabuhi, duyog kamo sa the new normal. among pagbati.”

The tradition of caroling was started by the angels.

The most internationally know Christmas Carol is or At Jesus’ birth a multitude of angels appeared to the course “Silent Night, Holy Night”. It has been translated shepherds praising God and singing, “Glory to God in the into so many languages from its original German, “Stille highest and on earth peace among men with whom he is Nacht, Heiligi Nacht.” It has a very interesting history. pleased” (Lk. 2:14). The angels were the first to announce On Christmas Eve in 1818 the parish priest Fr. Joseph the good news of the birth of the Savior by their song. Franz Mohr of Obernforf in Austria, visited his friend The tradition of caroling is to bring Christmas cheers Franz Xaver Gruber who was a musician. Mohr brought and proclaim the message of Jesus’ birth. I remember with him a poem he had written some two years earlier. as a boy that some old folks from the barrio would come He needed a carol for the Christmas Eve midnight mass caroling by our neighborhood and their “panaygon” that was only hours away, the organ being out of order. accompanied by guitar was not a simple song that takes He hoped his friend, a school teacher who also served three minutes ending with “Merry Christmas to you.” No, as the church’s choirmaster and organist, could set his the singers read from their notebooks and they sing the poem to music. story of Christmas in the Bisayan language for at least Gruber composed Silent Night and within a few hours ten minutes. This was the tradition that they learned he and Mohr stood before the altar and sang for the first from their grandparents in the Visayan islands. I wish I time Silent Night, accompanied by guitar. The song was was able to record those old Christmas ballads to preserve spread by itinerant vendors and was played for the King a beautiful tradition. of Prussia. It later crossed to America and many places Still, there are Christmas songs that appeal to us of the Christian world. It is the most famous Christmas and tell the Christmas story . They focus on Jesus and carol. It is a simple carol, easily sung and remembered, what he came for. As the gospel of John tells us this with one important message, Christ the Savior is born.

Christmas morning, “And the Word was made flesh and A Blessed and Peaceful Christmas, everyone. MC

Christmas Carols

REFLECTIONS

Church sets nat’l day of prayer for ‘Odette’ victims THE Catholic Church has set Dec. 25 and Dec. 26 as national days of prayer for families affected by typhoon “Odette”.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) called on dioceses to dedicate the said days to pray for the recovery of communities affected by the typhoon.

Dioceses are also encouraged to hold a second collection in all Masses on Christmas Day and the following day for the typhoon victims.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan, CBCP president, said the “Alay Kapwa Solidarity Fund” will be used for the Church’s collective emergency response.

“We encourage everyone to remit all collections to Caritas Philippines that will then plan and implement our overall response,” David said.

The church’s social action arm, he added, will also provide the dioceses reports and updates on a regular basis.

“May this season of giving offer us more opportunities to do consistent acts of Alay Kapwa (offering of oneself),” he also said.

The national Caritas said that at least 10 dioceses in Visayas and Mindanao regions were heavily affected by the typhoon.

Odette intensified into a super typhoon before making a landfall in the

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

Holy family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Readings:

Gospel: Luke 2.41-52 or Year C Readings, p. 79 “And the Word became flesh…and dwelt amongst us.” The Word, who is God in the Gospel of John did not remain as a Word that echoes through generations, heard, inspired many people in the history of salvation, gave that strength and courage to those who seek in times of danger and fear. No, the Word became flesh and He lived among us. He is our God – Jesus Christ – a man-God in nature who chose to be borne in our world to make His love be felt by His people. Let us celebrate this Christmas season with love and warmth, bringing with us the Light of the World, the promised Savior, as we continue to journey in this world. A God not distant – He is Emmanuel, who is with us from the beginning until the end of the world. And so may our lives be “fleshed” to change the world and make it a better place to live.

Prayer: Lord, let me welcome you into our hearts with love and joy. Amen.

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THE MINDANAO CROSS

December 25, 2021 EDITORIAL

Choosing a Disaster

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he time that most Filipinos are waiting for is now here. The Christmas season is the longest celebrated in the Philippines; and as the 25th of December comes nearer, more and more activities are prepared for the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ. A cursory look at the town centers of various Christian municipalities in the area would fascinate visitors, since each LGU compete with each other in decorating their area to make it more festive. Some LGUs stick to the theme of the nativity, although some are carried by the commercialism of the season.

The occasion would have been what children wished for the whole year (simbang gabi, a preponderance gifts from ninongs and ninangs, Christmas party celebrations), except for the coming of disasters, which seem to haunt the country every year. Once again, we are ending a year characterized by a succession of disasters.

What can be more funny to an observer is for people trying to compare which of the disasters that struck them is bad, worse, or incomparable.

The focal point in these disasters is Central Visayas, which has experienced the worst in terms of storm and typhoons. Who can forget the typhoon Yolanda which caused the biggest number of casualties due to the storm surge that it caused in the islands of Samar and Leyte? Until now, people still want the government to explain the inefficiencies that accompanied the campaign to help the victims. This happened just when the government units for disaster preparedness were put in place. These disaster units of government is to “predict and prevent disasters, mitigate their impact on vulnerable populations, and respond to and effectively cope with their consequences”.

The response to the effects of typhoon Yolanda appeared to be less than expected since people are still using the Yolanda disaster as an example of a learning experience gone badly.

This time, as Christmas is fast approaching, another typhoon caused the country to gear up and face the negative consequences of typhoon Odette. The prediction was right regarding its path, its strength (but like the Tornado in the US which was underestimated), its impact on the urban areas was totally unexpected. It was the first time that a second biggest city lost electricity and water. Although unlike Yolanda, the death toll was less from Odette, but the damage done on homes and infrastructure was unlike what have been experienced before. If Yolanda had its storm surge, Odette created havoc with its strong winds which blew away roofs, windows, and utility poles.

As we contemplate the birth of Jesus Christ today, we should ask ourselves why every Christmas, there is always a discernment that we have to go through our daily lives. Yes, we can attribute these disasters to Climate Change, but to what extent have we contributed to the coming of extreme weather. Is it just in the practice of our daily lives that we invite disasters to come?

Have we truly prepared ourselves to meet and mitigate the effects of these disasters? Have we prayed to God to save us from these disasters?

Let this Christmas be different from the rest that passed and yet to come by giving more focus on the purpose of the birth of Jesus Christ. MC +

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

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erhaps it is really about time that we start to learn to live with COVID-19, as an American medical expert opined when interviewed recently

by CNN. Indeed, just about every time we think we got this virus licked, a new variant appears, continuing to threaten our health, our economy, our way of life.

After the Delta variant of the dreaded virus caused surges in cases around the world, news about the presence of another “variant of concern” broke out in November. The new variant, initially identified by the World Health Organization as B.1.1.529, has since been assigned the name Omicron. It is said to be more transmissible than the Delta variant and is driving the fresh surge in infections in South Africa and some European countries.. What experts fear is such high transmissibility could lead to overwhelmed medical facilities if unchecked.

In the Philippines, the Department of Health has already recorded three confirmed cases of the of the COVID-19 Omicron variant. Detection of the first two cases, both incoming travelers, was first announced by the DOH on December 15. On Monday, December 20, the health agency said it has detected a third case, a returning overseas Filipino from Qatar with a travel history in Egypt.

WHO Country Representative to the Philippines Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe believes that the Omicron variant is likely to become the dominant coronavirus variant in the Philippines due to its higher transmissibility replacing the Delta variant in the same manner that Delta replaced the Alpha and Beta variants which preceded it. The fact that presence of the variant has already been detected in 77 countries reflects how fast this variant can spread, Abeyasinhghe said, adding that some countries are already reporting local transmission and predicting that Omicron will be the dominant strain in a matter of weeks.

This after two years into the COVID-19 pandemic.

Which is why some medical experts opine that we have to start accepting the fact that this dreaded virus will be staying with us for quite a while, that the end to this pandemic is not coming soon, and that we should learn to live with it. They are not saying, though, that we should not continue finding ways to keep ourselves safe from it. They are still encouraging vaccination, of everyone as much as possible, against the virus and the continued implementation of proven health protocols that prevent getting infected by it – wearing masks properly especially in confined places, maintaining

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N this day and age of Fake News (and purveyors), any government that can work well along the path of culture can revive one good Old Tradition in “Kudungan” (rendezvous) for market-goers engaged in truthful discussions on developments affecting their communities.

The Indigenous Architecture, a social media page run by the country’s top professional architects, apparently received this true good news with pleasantry that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is constructing its public market building in some of the region’s town centers with a mezzanine space allotted for coffee shop tables that can host the truthful “Kudungan.”

The building design bears the traditional architectural motif of a ‘Panolong’ by the tip of each roof truss. The MILG-BARMM is implementing the project on the Chief Minister’s directive, assures Interior and Local Government Minister Naguib G. Sinarimbo.

Architect Lito Ticson asks if the design of the building is common to all BARMM tribes, Architect Gloryrose Dy Metilla who principally designs the public market buildings (as well as the municipal hall and barangay hall edifices that BARMM is currently constructing in different parts of the region), says: “The structure typology is common but the detailed aesthetic (end beams and wall moldings, door design, etc.) will be appropriated based on the identity of where the market is located.”

Culturally, the Kudungan Tradition naturally bans liars from the band of an all-male forum of the weekly “Padian” or Market Day. The Humanity’s great Females, girls, ladies, women, old women, simply stay away from this Tradition, as their male counterparts—husband, brothers, father, uncles, grandfather—would rather shield them away from an occasional “poetry of the obscene,” though euphemized

Learning to live with COVID-19

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

adequate physical distancing and avoiding unnecessary contact, frequent handwashing and similar hygiene practices. We all know the drill.

If there is to be a source of hope, it has to be the fact that we are not where we were when the pandemic hit. Health experts and scientist now know more about this virus. While its evolution continues, they are not totally clueless about its behavior. Also, we have the vaccines. DOH Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said Friday last week that they have recorded 1.060 million jabs, but updated reports for Thursday’s vaccination drive showed that 734,337 more persons were given the COVID-19 vaccine. On Wednesday, December 15, it was reported that over 10.4 million more doses of the Covid-19 vaccine arrived in the country. These include 2,840,100 Moderna doses donated by the German government through the COVAX facility, 2,249,400 AstraZeneca shots bought by the private sector, and 1,187,550 government-procured Pfizer doses that were delivered in the evening. The country also received 3,055,200 doses of the Janssen vaccine donated by the Dutch, 856,800 Moderna doses from Germany, and 214,500 AstraZeneca doses from the United Kingdom.

“All viruses have been mutating for centuries.

Coronavirus will be with us for some time and we will have to learn to live with it,” said Indian public health expert Dr. Mathew Varghese. He said locking down every time there is a new variant is not the solution.

Instead, the way forward to is to be worried, cautious and taking steps to protect ourselves by wearing masks, taking care of hand sanitization and social distancing wherever possible. “Beyond this you cannot keep tightening travel restrictions, locking down etc, you cannot do this forever,” he said. He adds that full vaccination is of paramount importance, and it is crucial to ensure the entire population is immunized.

So as we welcome the new year, we should also start learning to live in the new normal with COVID-19 in our midst. MC

‘Kudungan’ in marketplaces keep liars, Fake News at bay

Penlight Nash B. Maulana

nash.penlight@gmail.com

in many cases.

‘Kudungan’ can be the traditional collective ‘Peace Table’ in the Market, in which liars are consequentially banned, as earlier stated, from the band of truth-tellers. Up to three false pieces of information on crucial issues could naturally place the source into the category of the “untrustworthy”.

And so the forums at the “Kudungan” effectively keep Fake News at bay.

Kudungan is a Tradition not quite distinctly from Maguindanao, as it certainly has its counterpart in other bangsa, provinces or regions. But it surely has existed long before the “Fake News” jargon came into being to invade the most influential of today’s influencer platforms, the social media. But it’s nice BARMM, for its part, is reviving a Traditional Concept of a Collective ‘Peace Table’—with all the wisdom there might have been in the Kudungan but remained unappreciated for many centuries.

‘Kudungan’ being a place of convergence where true information on development is shared by and among the marketgoers, also strengthens kinship and fellowship ties via the public table forums.

The BARMM Market Building is designed with a Mezzanine Floor slotted for coffee tables which, by freewill, constitute a truthful ‘Kudungan’ for locals and marketgoers from neighboring areas.

Until then, Happy Holidays.... MC

2

8

December 25, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Gone with the wind True to Form

and your destruction comes like a whirlwind to cause distress and anguish. Then they will call on Me, but I will not answer; they will seek Me diligently, but they will not find Me. Because they Charlie Señase hated knowledge and did not csenase@yahoo.com choose the fear of the LORD” DETTE’s gusty winds and heavy (Proverbs 1:23-29). downpour levelled off hard-hit All these difficulties are trying times communities bouncing like a ball in the digital age of “spiritual awakening” with nine different landfalls leaving behind confronting a health malady from unseen massive destruction to lives and properties. enemy flown by air or carried by the With varying casualty figures from air we breathe. Calamities, deception, government agencies reaching by the disinformation and conflict of interest that hundreds and displaced an estimated may result to division, arm struggle using 300,000 inhabitants in the country. Even lethal weapons and ultimate starvation North Cotabato low-lying villages of when the world cannot buy and sell without Kabacan and Pikit towns were submerged the mark of the beast (Revelation 13:16-17). by the overflowing Pulangi River that In these perilous times, we ought to affected 19,000 families. But Cotabato know that life is not wrestling against City, a delta (below sea level) was spared, flesh and blood, but against principalities, residents of old wondered, why? powers, rulers of darkness and against Typhoon survivors this week have spiritual hosts of wickedness in the expressed apprehension of a possible food heavenly places. Let us take-up the whole shortage with government’s disaster and armor of God to confront evil with girded emergency assistance dwindling to sustain truth in our waist and with the breastplate the needed funds for damages to crops and of righteousness and faith as our shield agricultural products, communication, and helmet of salvation according to the power lines and other vital infrastructures sword of the spirit which is the Word of with the still unresolved pandemic on its God (Ephesians 6:12-20). shoulders.

Though death is inevitable irrespective The USA, UK, Russia, China and of persons, the living ought to prepare other advanced countries have voluntarily for the eternal life hereafter, hoping that signified their intention to send relief departed colleagues in the profession like aid to Odette typhoon victims anytime Melo Acuna, Arlyn dela Cruz and others this week which Palace officials said are who rested early could have thought to answered prayers that the President is have fought a good fight and finished the grateful to God and kind-hearted head-of- race with faith, hope and love intact. states. Especially so, that another cyclone While young and not-so-young, is expected to land on Christmas Day, keep-up what’s good and pleasing to according to latest PAGASA alert warning. the Almighty. As peacekeepers, we Time and time again calamities strike congratulate Maguindanao LGUs and its as God’s global reminder to love one security forces for the successful surrender another and take care of our ecology and of BIFF rebels and their sub-commander natural resources. For the disobedient and with their assorted high-powered firearms destructive, God’s wrath will be upon them to authorities. Kudos to ground military (Revelation 11:18). forces under 6th ID chief Major General It’s time to fear God and turn at Juvymax Uy, who is also Joint Task Force His rebuke for us to obtain wisdom Central commander for the latest bloodless through His words and commandments. peacekeeping feat. Lately, reports of NPA “Because I have called and you refused. rebels yielding to authorities in Sarangani I have stretched out My hand and no one and North Cotabato were made possible regarded, because you disdained all My through General Uy’s close rapport and counsel and would have none of My rebuke. collaboration with LGUs in rebel-infested I also will laugh at your calamity; I will communities. Always to God be the glory. mock when your terror comes like a storm Happy Holidays to one and all! MC

O

Region IX , Madam Myra Valderama Abubakar was special guest of BARMM. On the other hand, City Tourism Officer, Gurlie Frondoza , lined up a couple of activities for the same Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy days. I was quite attracted franco1573victoria@gmail.com to the project of dressing up dolls in Muslim costume. ecember is indeed the busiest The concept was to create a month of the year, it is also the prototype which shall be representative most expensive, I must say. We of our maguindanao women in their have put off weddings, birthday native costume . Later these could be celebrations, reunions, anniversaries, replicated , mass produced and sold as office parties for sometime, I wonder souvenirs exclusive from Cotabato City. how long we can wait to be free from the Capping the BARMM festivities threat of the pandemic. was the fashion show showcasing the Churches all over the Philippines creativity and innovativeness of our local were all out in celebrating designers with emphasis the Feast of the on the use of the enaul, Immaculate Conception, the hand woven material one of the only three made by our Muslim official holidays in our women. calendar. Our cathedral For the acknowledged was teeming with master designer\ churchgoers, making do couturier this side with what is allowed by of our world, Pepe protocol. Probably, they, Quitco no less than the like myself have never Maguindanao First Lady, been out of our houses and beauty queen , Miss after all these months.

Asia Pacific International Thanks for lighting 2018 Ms Sharifa Akeel up the city plaza with the Mangudadatu took multiple stars of red, white and blue . center stage, for the finale number.

I choose to disregard the symbolism of ,The statuesque model gliding the colors. . effortlessly with confidence like to the We were happily surprised by the stage was born, Ms Sharifa is every number of business opening, notably couturier’s dream mannequin. My KFC, adjacent to McDonald’s both under lifetime couturier Pepe Quitco is not the banner of ebullient couple, Oscar and new to beautiful models and celebrities Deborah Tan Abing. Congratulations to as costumers, and has participated in both of you, Sigay ka Cotabato City. various fashion shows in practically all The Misa de Gallo has been on-going his designing years. He has a passion for as scheduled; church goers crowding at enaul which he invents and re-invents MacDonald’s , the current after mass many ways. destination. No more bibingka, puto24 year old Ms. Sharifa is the new bumbong and other Filipino delicacies we bride of Maguindanao Rep. Esmael had grown accustomed to in our youth.

“Toto” Mangudadatu. They wed recently On the 18th and 19th, both City in a not so grandeous affair due to Government and the BARMM marked restrictions of Covid, after overcoming the Shariff Kabunsuan Day with their some malicious insinuations from respective schedule of activities. My outsiders. friend from our Soroptimist days.

Both couple are running for governor Former Regional Governor of Soroptimist in 2022, she for Sultan Kudarat, while International of the Philippines Region, her husband, Rep. “toto” will run for and currently Tourism Director of Maguindanao seat. MC

Busiest month of the Year

The Stuff of Life

D

“No more bibingka, puto-bumbong and other Filipino delicacies we had grown accustomed to in our youth.”

How to treat and prevent five of the most common holiday illnesses

HEALTH CORNER

T

A Reprint from Patient’s Emergency Room

he winter time has traditionally been associated with illness. Infants, elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, are especially susceptible.

With holiday excitement, we tend to put our health on the back burner. During this busy time, it is important to monitor the health status of everyone in the family.

Below are listed some of the most common illnesses to watch out for during the holiday season, including a few tips to assist with prevention.

THE COMMON COLD There are many viruses that can cause the common cold, all with similar symptoms, including: nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, headache, and sometimes fever. While a cold can occur any time of the year, the common cold rears its stuffy head most often during the winter months.

There is no cure for the common cold, but rest, hydration and nutrition will help you feel better as your body works through the healing process. Most colds reach the peak of their severity between three and five days of symptom onset, with resolution in about a week.

THE FLU The flu is often mistaken for the common cold. Flu tends to present quickly and severely. Coughing, sore throat, headaches, body aches and high fever, are common flu symptoms. If you develop flu-like symptoms, take fever reducing medication and see your healthcare provider. To assist with prevention, we recommend that everyone in your family receive an annual flu shot.

RSV AND BRONCHIOLITIS Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, including nasal congestion, cough, fever, wheezing and dehydration. RSV is a significant cause of respiratory illness in young children and older adults. RSV can last one or two weeks and has the potential of becoming serious. In the United States, RSV is

the most common cause of bronchitis and pneumonia in children younger than 12 months. Seek medical attention if you or your child have trouble breathing. To avoid spreading the infection, disinfect surfaces and wash your hands regularly.

STREP THROAT Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus and is most common among school-age children.

In addition to a sore throat, symptoms can include pain when swallowing, fever, red and swollen tonsils, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, and enlarged lymph nodes in the front of the neck. Your doctor can do a swab test to determine if group A strep bacteria is the cause of your sore throat. If positive, antibiotics will be prescribed to help heal the infection, prevent future serious health problems, and avoid spreading the infection to others. Prevent close contact, disinfect surfaces and wash hands regularly to prevent spreading the infection.

NOROVIRUS Norovirus is a very contagious and common stomach bug that can lead to severe vomiting and diarrhea. Though it can strike at any time of the year, it’s most commonly passed around during the winter months.

Common nicknames for the Norovirus is “winter vomiting bug” and “stomach flu”. If you contract a stomach bug, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and seek medical attention if not able to keep fluids down. Symptoms tend to last two to three days. If someone in your family has the norovirus, keep interactions limited and wash your hands regularly.

PREVENTION IS THE BEST MEDICINE It is always important to practice good hygiene, especially when you or those around you are sick. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly, cover your cough, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy immune system through proper nutrition.

While most of these common illnesses will run their course without any intervention, you should see a doctor immediately if your symptoms worsen.

From our family to yours, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season. MC

The Good and the Bad in 2021

that will be vaccinated by year end though this target had already been adjusted downwards.

After a long spell of long spell of lockdowns in Metro Manila and some other Danny Buenbrazo danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com highly urban cities in the country, things had slowly gotten back to near normal. ess than a week remains for the Almost all government institutions year 2021, the second year of global disruption with the COVID-19 had gone back to normal operation with virus seemingly more resilient than employees back in their offices. The expected. With all the experts of the lockdowns have forced line agencies different developed countries racking and local government units to rethink their brains for solutions that would spell their modes of service delivery. Now the end of COVID-19, the virus continues more services can be availed by clients to mutate with the Omicron variant without necessary going to the physical being its latest version. If COVID-19 government offices. Verifications, would have been a computer program, payments, and other transactions can the company that owns it should be now be done online.

Most modes of awash with cash given transportation had the short period of time also resumed operation between its different though some still need variants. to carry lesser number How would 2021 of passengers to prevent be remembered in spread of infection. history? When we In the local stock recall the year, will market, a number of there be some positive Initial Public Offerings memories or will it be (IPOs) had been done this also be remembered as a year despite the weak time where good things sentiments of investors happened? and slow economic On the somber side, growth. Some of the more it was in 2021 that the bulk of COVID-19 infections were interesting IPOs are the Real Estate recorded in the Philippines. The death Investment Trust (REIT) corporations toll for the year is also higher than the and most are doing relatively well in 2020 figure. But towards the last quarter terms of stock price and payment of of the year, the situation in the country dividends. REITs are a good thing since seems to have taken a turn for the better investors earn dividends at rate much with the number of new cases going down higher than bank interest rate or even significantly. The latest figures show Treasury Bills plus the possibility of that the average number of new cases gaining from stock appreciation.

Locally, we have seen the launch of per day have gone down to 500 or less.

Vaccination seems to be effective in at least three commercial buildings this lessening the number of new cases or year with high occupancy rates. This alleviating the impact of the virus on means an increased confidence on the people, leading to higher rates of recovery. part of investors to start a business even That is the good news. The not so bright when the pandemic had not yet ended. side of the vaccination matter is the slow Consumers also show confidence that rate of vaccination of the population. their income stream are stable as they The Department of Health have just are now more willing to spend.

In general, 2021 seems to be a much admitted that they will not be able to meet the target percentage of Filipinos better year than 2020. MC

Market Driven

L

“In general, 2021 seems to be a much better year than 2020.”

9

THE MINDANAO CROSS

December 25, 2021

ANNOUNCEMENT Ang G-ROCE Pawnshop sa Cotabato City at G-ROCE Pawnshop Damosa, Davao City, ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Enero 31, 2022 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Agosto 2021 Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta.

PMARK Pawnshop Main Branch ng S.K. Pendatun Avenue, Cotabato City, PMARK Branch I - Parang, Maguindanao, at PMARK Branch II Supermarket Site, Cotabato City ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay yaon pang isinangla magmula pa noong Hulyo 2021. Ang Subasta ay sa Enero 03, 2022 sa ganap na ika 9:00 ng umaga hanggang 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Dec. 25, 2021

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 Enero 31, 2022 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Agosto 2021 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: Dec. 25, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

PMARK PAWNSHOP MAIN, PMARK PAWNSHOP - BRANCH I & PMARK PAWNSHOP BRANCH II Patalastas ng Subasta

MC: Dec. 25, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

THE REGENT PAWNSHOP

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late MERLO MARUNDAN, who died on August 7, 2021 in Cotabato City, Lot No. 7-G-5-D-4-A, Psd-12-061822, situated in Matampay (now Pob. 4), Cotabato City with an area of 98 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-22082 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. No. 4005; Page No. 4005; Book No. XXVII, Series of 2021.

Patalastas ng Subasta

MC: Dec. 25, 2021, Jan. 1 & 8, 2022

Quezon Avenue, Cotabato City

Ang THE REGENT PAWNSHOP ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla magmula Hulyo 2019 hanggang Disyembre 2020. Ang subasta ay gaganapin sa Enero 15, 2022 sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Dec. 25, 2021 & Jan. 1, 2022

Notice is hereby given that estate of the late JUAN DALIMBANG PANALAG and TOMASA PELIÑO PANALAG who died on March 28, 1990 and August 11, 2004, respectively, parcels of land situated at Sedem, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao, Lot. 1, Psu-121959, covered by OCT No. V-234 with an area of 238,698 sq. mts., more or less and OCT No. P-01498 are the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Mark Esmael R. Nor, CPA as per Doc. No. 368; Page No. 73; Book No. III; Series of 2021.

MC: Dec. 25, 2021, Jan. 1 & 8, 2022

Republic of the Philippines BANGSAMORO AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO REGIONAL BANGSAMORO BOARD OF INVESTMENTS Cotabato City

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the application of

ANNOUNCEMENT

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

HANABANA CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT CORP.

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 Enero 31, 2022 sa ganap alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Agosto 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late EDUARDO P. GUERRA, who died on May 25, 2000 in Cotabato City, Lot No. 7-G-5-D-4-1, Psd-12-061822, situated in Matampay (now Pob. 4), Cotabato City with an area of 54 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-22082 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. No. 4004; Page No. 4004; Book No. XXVII, Series of 2021.

With activity of Potable Bulk Water Supply Project located at Barangay Biniruan, Poblacion 9, Cotabato City for registration with the Regional Bangsamoro Board of Investments-BARMM under Book I of the Omnibus Investment Code of 1987, otherwise known as Executive Order No. 226 as amended by R.A. 11534 or CREATE Act, has been officially accepted on December 09, 2021 and is currently being processed.

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: Dec. 25, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late SIMEONA REED, who died on April 1, 1970 in Parang, Maguindanao, Lot No. 1 & 2 Blk. 27, Lot 36 and Blk 28, TK5, situated in Nituan, Parang, Maguindanao, containing an area of 6,116 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous waiver of rights before N o t a r y P u b l i c A t t y.

Lyzzaik L. Laguialam, CPA as per Doc. No. 3; Page No. 78; Book No. I, Series of 2021.

MC: Dec. 25, 2021, Jan. 1 & 8, 2022

Republic of the Philippines

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

Parang, Maguindanao OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

AFFIDAVIT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late HADJI SALIK GUMANDEL, who died on May 20, 2003 in Bongabong, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao, Lot No. 6535, Pls-263, containing an area of 44,075 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T- 4124 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with waiver of shares before Notary Public Mimbalawag T. Mangutara, Jr., CPA as per Doc. No. 42; Page No. 10; Book No. LXIII, Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ROMIE DUI who died on October 8, 2001, parcels of land Lot 7, Block 8, Psd-(ARMM)-000519 and Lot 8, Block 8, Psd (ARMM)-000519, situated at Tamontaka, K a p i t o n a n d Ta n w i l l , Dinaig, Cotabato(now Maguindanao) with the total area of 400 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT Nos. T-15207 and T-15208, respectively, are the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights and deed of donation before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 3329; Page No. 3329; Book No. XXVII, Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JUDITHA CULANO who died on November 18, 2008, a parcel of land Lot No. 895-A, Csd 6155, situated at Luayon, Mlang (now) Makilala, Cotabato with an area of 51,687 sq. mts., more or less, covered

by TCT No. CT-19328 is the subject of affidavit of self-adjudication of the estate with deed of absolute sale before N o t a r y P u b l i c A t t y.

Joeyfer Samaniego Villanueva, as per Doc. No. 19; Page No. 5; Book No. XV; Series of 2021. MC: Dec. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Dec. 25, 2021, Jan. 1 & 8, 2022

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

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048/10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Barby Dequiña Beltran has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Male to Female in the birth certificate of Barby D. Beltran who was born on March 10, 1979 at Magsaysay, Parang, Maguindanao and whose parents are Bernardo V. Beltran, Jr. and Brenda P. Dequiña.

Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than December 29, 2021.

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the Implementation of Administrative Order No. 1 series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), a notice is hereby served to the public that Jose P. Rodriguez has filed with this office, a petition for correction of entry in the child’s date of birth from August 30, 1970 to August 21, 1970 and for change of first name from Joselito to Jose in the certificate of live birth bearing registry No. 186 of Jose Platon Rodriguez duly registered at the Local Civil Registry Office of Upi, Maguindanao and whose parents are Marcelo M. Rodriguez and Carmelita C. Platon.

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

MC: Dec. 18 & 25, 2021

(Sgd.)JEAN P. BACAS Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Dec. 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Dec. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

ATTY. ISHAK V. MASTURA Chairman

MC: MC: Dec. 25, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

Municipal Civil Registrar

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

(Sgd.)KARIM O. OMAR, MPA

MC: Dec. 25, 2021, Jan. 1 & 8, 2022

Any person with valid objections to or pertinent comments on the abovementioned application may file his/her objection, in writing under oath, with the Regional Bangsamoro Board of Investments-BARMM within one (1) week from the date of application.

DEED OF SELF-ADJUDICATION

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late CAMILO A. ADVINCULA, who died on May 12, 1999 in Cotabato City, a parcel of land Lot 2463, Kabacan Pls-117, located at Upper Paatan, Kabacan, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-37645 with an area of 39,789 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of deed of self-adjudication with deed of donation before Notary Public Maleiha E, Usman as per Doc. No. 470; Page No. 94; Book No. 1; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ALIBAY S. LAUBAN who died on September 17, 2002, a parcel of land Lot 1-A-2-A-2-B-4, Psd-123804-019202, s i t u a t e d i n K a k a r, Cotabato City with an area of 200 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-30584 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with absolute sale before Notary Public Atty. Ronald Hallid D. Torres as per Doc. No. 405; Page No. 79; Book No. XVIII, Series of 2021.

MC: Dec. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Dec. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

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

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

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

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

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 Jorelyn C. Rota has filed with this office a petition for correction of entry in sex from Male to Female in the certificate of live birth of Jorelyn Y. Cosicol at Alamada, Cotabato and whose parents are Jose C. Cosicol and Elda C. Yano.

Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file a written opposition with this office not later than January 06, 2022.

In compliance with R.A. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Ryann Y. Casero has filed with this office a petition for change of sex from Female to Male in the birth certificate of Ryann Yray Casero who was born on December 20, 1981 at Kidapawan, North Cotabato and whose parent are Fidel T. Casero and Cirila S. Yray.

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

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Bai Racma K. Salamat has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Racma to Bai Racma in the birth certificate of Racma Karon Karon who was born on September 26, 1968 at Cotabato City and whose parent are Sanny D. Karon and Baidido P. Karon.

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

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that Harriet M. Piamonte has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from Dulce to Laila in the birth certificate of Dulce Belluga Piamonte who was born on August 24, 1969 in Parang, Maguindanao and whose parent are Victorio Piamonte and Salustiana Belluga.

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

(Sgd.) TOHAMY M. LAUBAN

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

(Sgd.) MA. LENY B. BUENAFE Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Dec. 25, 2021 & Jan. 1, 2022

(Sgd.) RAUL A. MALALUAN City Registrar

MC: Dec. 25, 2021 & Jan. 1, 2022

City Civil Registrar

MC: Dec. 25, 2021 & Jan. 1, 2022

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

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

MC: Dec. 25, 2021 & Jan. 1, 2022

10 Mayor cyn calls for unity ..from P1

added.

The December 5-19 activities included the Shariff Kabunsuan fest and Christmas season agritourism trade fair at the

Tantawan multi-purpose center, the “Halal” Food Showcase, “Manikang Cotabateña: Cotabato City doll competition,” “DulaDulaan hango sa kwento

ni Shariff Kabunsuan” at the Peoples Palace, Festival dance contest, “Awit Cotabateño Song Solo Signing contest” and Halal Business Forum. CIO

Cotabato City Mayor Francis Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi

Church sets nat’l day of prayer for...from P6 island of Siargao in Surigao del Norte on Thursday, forcing mass evacuation in low-lying areas.

Packing a maximum

December 25, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

sustained winds of up to 195 km, the 15th typhoon to enter the Philippine territory this year destroyed houses displacing thousands of families.

The second-most powerful typhoon to hit the country this year also cut power and communication lines in the affected areas.

CBCPNews

Power rehab teams sent to areas hit by Odette

THE Aboitiz-owned Cotabato Light and Power Company (Cotabato Light) and electric cooperatives in Central Mindanao have sent Power Restoration Teams and Power Maintenance Teams composed of linemen in Visayas and Mindanao hit and destroyed by Typhoon Odette.

The Cotabato Light has sent personnel from Carmel Lights Manpower and Allied Services, Inc. (CLMAS) to help fast tract restoration of damage power lines in Cebu City and nearby areas.

CLMAS is an accredited contractor of Cotabato Light.

"They will help in the power restoration activities to keep the lights on in areas badly-hit by Typhoon Odette," the Cotabato Light said in a statement.

In Kidapawan City, the Cotabato Electric Cooperative, Incorporated (Cotelco) also dispatched a team to join other electric cooperatives (ECs) in Soccsksargen (Region 12) to assist in power rehabilitation efforts in the typhoon-hit Caraga Region.

The Philippine News Agency quoted Engr. Godofredo B. Homez, Cotelco general manager, as saying they have deployed two maintenance teams with a boom truck and equipment to step-up power restoration.

“This is the proof of our commitment which is to serve and support each other to withstand their mission to bring light and hope to families at this very moment,” he said in an interview.

He said the team forms part of the "Task Force Kapatid," a call to all ECs to augment resources for the restoration

of the toppled power lines and facilities damaged by Typhoon Odette.

Homez recalled that Cotelco sent a team during the month-long power line rehabilitation of areas affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda in Eastern Visayas in 2013.

He said the team will be deployed in their respective areas of assignment in Caraga until the year ends, even during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“This is service beyond compare because, without hesitancy, they nodded to help others and set aside their interest to be with their families during the holiday season,” Homez said.

Meanwhile, Cotelco employees also contributed some PHP100,000 to procure necessities such as food packs for its allied EC workers affected by the typhoon.

Homez, concurrent chair of the Central Mindanao Electric Cooperative Association, together with other EC general managers, led the formal sendoff ceremony Tuesday of TF Kapatid comprised of 12 teams of line workers – 11 from Region 12 and one from the Davao Region – at the Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative (Dasureco) grounds in Digos City, Davao del Sur. Aside from Cotelco and Dasureco, other teams that joined the Caraga power rehabilitation assignment were the Sultan Kudarat Electric Cooperative, South Cotabato Electric Cooperative I; and Socoteco II, all in Region 12. Edwin

O. Fernandez

Marijuana uprooted in Lanao Sur...from P11 Sur and in nearby Bukidnon province have a reputation for propagating marijuana plants and for conniving

with traffickers of shabu to generate money needed to sustain their needs.

John Felix Unson

BARMM’s MAFAR jumpstarts farm...from P2 (farmers) to improve productivity (in the region) and increase gains and practice in the years to come,” Dar said.

“Sa pamamagitan

ng ating pagkakaisa, kayang-kaya po nating itaguyod ang isang masigla at modernong sector ng agrikultura at isang bansang may

matibay na seguridad na pagkain at magsasaka at mangingisdang may maunlad at payapang pamumuhay,” he added.

Nash B. Maulana

POWER RESTORATION. Personnel from Carmel Lights Manpower and Allied Services, Inc. (CLMAS), Cotabato Light contractor immediately started rehab works of typhoon hit Cebu City district.

Photo courtesy of Cotabato Light

11

THE MINDANAO CROSS

December 25, 2021

Mlang’s slain siblings laid to rest

MLANG, North Cotabato — Crizzle Gwynn Maguad, 18 and her brother, the 16-year-old Crizzule Luois have been laid to rest and their killers are to be prosecuted soon.

Investigators have identified a minor responsible for the December 10 murder, using a chopping knife and a baseball bat, of the two children of a couple-teachers here.

Local executives and senior police officials in the province told reporters that there is a seeming closure to the murder here last week of Crizzle Gwynn Maguad, 18 and his brother, the 16-year-old Crizzule

Luois.

The victims were bludgeoned with a baseball bat and repeatedly stabbed with a knife in their upper torsos in an attack right in their house at Barangay Bagontapay here.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-12, the North Cotabato provincial police and agents dispatched

by Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum, director

of the Police Regional Office-12 cooperated in resolving the bloody incident.

One of two suspects in the brutal killings is an 18-year-old girl who stays with the Maguads as an adopted family member whose schooling and other needs they support.

She was treated like a real daughter by the parents of the victims, both school teachers here, according to neighbors.

Kabunsuan’s arrival commemorated...from P1

Marijuana uprooted in Lanao Sur

UNAFFECTED by Typhoon Odette, authorities uprooted 10,670 more marijuana plants in Maguing, Lanao del Sur in an operation Thursday last week, the third haul in just seven days.

In a statement last weekend, the regional office here of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said the marijuana plants were planted on patches of lands with rolling terrain not too far from an abandoned camp of the New Peoples Army in Barangay Dalimbayan in Maguing town.

Combined agents from PDEABARMM’s Lanao del Sur office, personnel of the provincial and municipal police forces and the Army’s 5th Infantry Battalion immediately set the marijuana plants on fire after collecting samples as evidence for the prosecution of propagators.

PDEA agents and investigators from the Lanao del Sur provincial police office placed at no less than P7 million their estimate of the marijuana plants uprooted Thursday last week, amid strong winds and downpours spawned

by Typhoon Odette.

The feat was preceded by two PDEA raids in the same barangay last week that resulted in the confiscation, in both operations, of 19,670 marijuana plants.

The spots where the marijuana plants were propagated surround a small NPA enclave whose occupants were driven away by soldiers following an hour-long encounter a day before the illegal farms were discovered.

NPA fronts in Lanao del

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Hundreds of spectators, among them local executives from Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, watched the Guinakit

fluvial parade at the Tamontaka River that drains through the southwestern seacoast of Cotabato City.

The MTIT-BARMM also facilitated, through its director-general Rosslaini

John FelixUnson

Alonto-Sinarimbo and senior staff Mustapha Ala, Jr., a seven-day trade fair here that showcased products of traditional crafts like loom woven cloth, metal wares and food. John Felix Unson

GUINAKIT FLUVIAL PARADE. The Guinakit fluvial parade at the Tamontaka River in Cotabato City that the Bangsamoro regional government organized awed thousands of spectators and netizens who saw video clips and photos of the activity on social media.

Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism

P10 Cotabato City council “makes waves, levels up...from P1 This historic piece of legislation is a strong manifestation of the Sanggunian’s burning commitment to fulfill the mandate of the people of

Major Realan Mamon, Mlang municipal police chief, said the adolescent suspect is now in the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Investigators said “sibling rivalry” could have triggered the killings. They declined to elaborate, however.

Authorities are still searching for a second suspect who is reportedly at large.

Cotabato City to legislate measures that will uplift the general welfare of the city’s populace to the fullest extent possible today, and beyond.

(YGL) This is indeed a legacy that will be forever embedded in the annals of legislation of Cotabato City.

More “Reds” are coming...from P12

Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani Provinces,” said Col Ali Luis Macawaris Jr, the Deputy Brigade Commander of 603rd Infantry Brigade, whose unit has operational control over the area.

The names of the surrenderers are still being withheld for the safety of their families.

More than 100 NPAs have surrendered to the government this year through the JTFC. Maj. Gen. Uy said with this development, the NPA movement is nearing its defeat in the JTFC area of operation.

“To the remaining communist terrorist that

is still on hiding in the tri-boundaries of Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani Provinces, follow the examples of your former comrades who returned to the folds of the law and choose to live a peaceful life,” he said.

“Just like them, you also have the opportunity to live peacefully together with your family if you decide to cooperate with the government and with the community. The government has programs that are set to help you and your families live a normal and sustainable life that is free from threat and fear,” the 6th ID chief said. Edwin O.

declared Dec. 25 and 26 as national days of prayer for the typhoon victims.

Dioceses are also encouraged to hold a second collection in all Masses on the said days for the church’s relief operations led by Caritas Philippines.

The church’s humanitarian aid agency said at least 10 dioceses were heavily affected by

the typhoon in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

It also released an initial P3 million from its Alay Kapwa fund for the affected dioceses’ emergency relief operations.

Caritas Manila also provided an initial P2.5 million to help in the church’s relief efforts. CBCP News

Fernandez

Catholics told: Avoid...from P6

LANDMARK LEGISLATION. Members of Cotabato City Sangguniang Panlungsod, chaired by Vice Mayor Graham Nazer G. Dumama, deliberate and eventually enacted into law the Code of General Ordinances of Cotabato City.

Photo courtesy of Sangguniang Panlungsod

Elusive “OV-10,” followers surrender...from P12 pursuing soldiers in different towns in Maguindanao in the past five years.

He was said to have assumed the alias “OV-10” for having survived several gun maneuvers by US-made OV-10 Bronco turboprop light attack aircraft while still with a Moro rebel front in the 1990s.

He joined the BIFF in 2011, recruited by the group’s founding leader then, the late Ustadz Ameril Ombra Kato, an extremely radical preacher who studied Islamic theology in Saudi Arabia during the late 1970s as a government scholar.

Commander OV-10 and his 10 followers turned in rifles and two

launchers for B-40 anti-tank rockets before they renounced their membership with BIFF on Sunday at an Army headquarters in Barangay Kamasi in this municipality.

A 12-member BIFF group surrendered to the 6th ID the day before in a simple rite held at the same venue.

More than 300 members of the BIFF, which uses the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, have surrendered in batches to units of the 6th ID in the past 14 months.

Many of them have been reintegrated into mainstream society, mostly now thriving as farmers. John Felix Unson

12

December 25, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

BARMM MP files bill to establish Bangsamoro orphanages

TO institutionalize support for the welfare of orphans in the Bangsamoro region, Atty. Maisara Latiph filed a bill that seeks to establish a regional system for accredited orphanages.

Atty. Latiph said that this will "help alleviate the condition of every orphan and provide them with the opportunity to live a fulfilled life."

"The sad reality is that if foster parents, social workers, or institutions are not there to provide what they need, no one will. This is the time for the government to step in. Under the principle of parens patriae, the government should stand in as the parents and caregivers of the orphaned child, "Atty. Latiph said in her proposed bill’s sponsorship speech.

The Parliament Bill 71, or the Bangsamoro Orphanage Act of 2020, also seeks to create a "credible mechanism" that will determine the qualified beneficiaries.

The system will adopt an appropriate, effective, transparent, and cost-

efficient method to identify and select beneficiaries, as well as coordinate with other ministries and agencies, including organizations in the private sector, to ensure full implementation of statutory commitments.

It is also mandated to develop a comprehensive monitoring system to address the needs of orphans.

The Bangsamoro government, through its implementing ministries, will establish orphanages in every province in the Bangsamoro region, primarily through the Ministry of Social Services and Development in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and Local Government.

They will lead the central planning, coordinating, and implementing body of the comprehensive program. BTA Info

Office

Elusive “OV-10,” followers surrender

A M P A T U A N , Maguindanao — An elusive terrorist whom three ex-commanders of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division during their stints failed to neutralize by force finally surrendered Sunday.

The wanted “Commander OV-10” of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and his 10 followers yielded through the intercession of officials of 6th ID, the 2nd Mechanized Battalion and two mayors, Victor Samama and Nathaniel

Midtimbang of Datu Piang and Datu Anggal towns, respectively.

Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6th ID commander, said the BIFF leader, whose real name he withheld pending relocation to a safe area, agreed to return to the fold of law via backchannel dialogues with Army officials and members of the municipal peace and order councils in both towns.

The BIFF has a reputation for attacking followers who have availed

of 6th ID’s reconciliation program for violent religious extremists and their relatives.

Commander OV10 and his 10 followers belonged to a BIFF faction under Imam Bongos.

The cleric Bongos, fomenting hatred for nonMuslims, is wanted for more than 30 criminal cases in different courts in central Mindanao.

Local officials told reporters Commander OV-10 and his men figured in many encounters with

P11

More “Reds” are coming out in 6th ID AOR

THE Army is winning the hearts of misguided communist rebels who have been demoralized and decided to peacefully surrender in its area of operation.

In Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, communist rebels took the right decision.

Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the 6th Infantry Division said the 10 New Peoples’ Army (NPA) rebels also turned in to security forces under Joint Task Force Central nine assorted firearms and ammunition Wednesday afternoon.

Maj. Gen. Uy lauded the decision of the former

NPA rebels to abandon the communist organization and choose a peaceful life with their families and with the community.

“Our efforts to defeat the communist terrorist group have been relentless. Along with the Local Government Units and Non-Government and Civil Society Organizations, we have sustained the call for NPA rebels to surrender and return to the folds of the law,” Maj. Gen. Uy said.

“At the same time the security forces has sustained our focused military operation targeting the communist rebels who refused to work

with the government and continues to threaten the communities,” he added.

Lt. Col. Allan Van Estrera, commanding officer of 37th Infantry Battalion, said the rebels turned one M16 Armalite rifle with M203 grenade launcher, a Browning Automatic Rife (BAR), three US made M1 Garand rifles, two Springfield rifles with scope, and one M79 grenade launcher.

“The surrenderers are all under the weakened Daguma Front, SubRegional Committee Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region operating in the tri-boundaries of

P11

2 cops, 2 others perish in Mlang shootout KIDAPAWAN CITY — Two co-owners of a roadside eatery and two policemen perished in a shootout in Barangay Bialong in Mlang, North Cotabato early Wednesday.

The two policemen, Master Sgt. Fletcherlyn Dominic Pido and Staff Sgt. Arman Alquiza Bada, were in a team tasked to arrest the siblings John Kevin and Jerson Rey Papna right in their establishment in Barangay Bialong, Mlang but the mission turned haywire when the duo resisted, provoking a clash.

The warrant for the arrest of the Papnas in connection with a murder case came from the Regional Trial Court Branch 23 in Kidapawan

City, signed by Judge Jose Tanalgo Tabosares.

The Papnas, Pido and Bada perished in the ensuing gunfight that caused panic among villagers residing around the scene of the encounter.

Residents of Mlang, among them barangay officials who requested anonymity, said the Papnas both had “shady personas,” also implicated in other crimes besides the murder case pending at the RTC Branch 23 in Kidapawan City.

The cadavers of Pido and Bada had been turned over to the Wood Haven Funeral Home in Kidapawan City, according to the North Cotabato provincial police. John Felix Unson

PhilHealth 12 holds outreach program for COVID 19 patients KORONADAL CITY — At least 100 COVID 19 patients undergoing treatment at the COVID 19 isolation facilities managed by the Koronadal City Health Office have received pails of goods from PhilHealth XII. The good were delivered during its outreach program

and corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity on December 13 at the lobby of Koronadal City Hall led by PhilHealth 12 Regional Vice President Dr. Hector Zenon Leonardo P. Malate.

In his message, Malate stressed the relevance of the program that has been

part of the annual and year-long activities of PhilHealth in line w i t h i t s fo u n d i n g anniversary beginning 14th Day of February.

This year ’s 26Th anniversary theme “Patuloy na Nagmamalasakit at Naglilingkod sa Pamilyang Filipino,” serve as an assurance to all members that

the corporation has remained committed and is always ready to serve with or without the pandemic.

Ko ro n a d a l C i t y M ayo r O g e n a , o n his part, expressed his appreciation and gratitude that LGU Koronadal, particularly the COVID 19 patients under the care of the

CHO, were chosen as beneficiaries of the outreach program.

He assured the corporation that LGU Koronadal will always support its programs as he anticipates for more partnership in the future.

Ko ro n a d a l C i t y Health Officer (CHO) Dr. Stephen Mortera was also grateful for

the goods entrusted to the CHO saying this will significantly h e l p t h e p at i e nt s while on a mandatory quarantine in said facility.

The event was also graced by City Administrator Atty.

Rene Jumilla. Hanah G. Naanep with reports from Nevin L. Hallegado

L-R: one of the participants engaged in a fun activity with the host, PhilHealth XII WHITE Chapter Union President, Sole and Exclusive Negotiating Agent (SENA) representative and Membership Section Head, Nevin L. Hallegado; Koronadal City Admin Officer, Atty. Rene Jumilla; City Health Officer OIC, Dr. Stephen A. Mortera; Koronadal City Mayor, Atty. Eliordo U. Ogena; PhilHealth XII Regional Vice President, Dr. Hector Zenon Leonardo P. Malate (partly hidden) and Management Services Division Chief, Ms Merlie C. Sabug, MPA - during the Gift Giving activity on December 13, 2021 at the New Team PRO XII led by Dr. Hector Zenon Leonardo P. Malate during the Gift Giving activity on December 13, 2021 at the New City Hall Lobby.

City Hall Lobby.