Issuu

Marawi Compensation Act gains headway

CHURCH / P6

Cardinal Advincula honors COVID-19 frontliners

TAPATAN Fr. Gerry Gamaliel de los Reyes, OMI

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

98 METICULOUSLY WOVEN. A Blaan is abaca weaving called “Mabal,” which is the processes of making woven cloth or the traditional Blaan tubular skirt. Rituals are performed before a man or woman can weave abaca as part of Blaan tradition. Photo courtesy of Denmark Bulan

RBOI OKAYS FIRST P398-M INVESTMENT IN COTABATO CITY

The regional Bangsamoro Board of Investments in the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (RBOI-BARMM) has approved the registration of P398 million tourism related investment.

Crusading lawyer killed in South Cotabato John Felix Unson KORONADAL CITY — immediately identify the Two men together on culprits for prosecution. a motorcycle killed a Gov. Reynaldo crusading pro-poor lawyer Tamayo, Jr., chairperson before dusk Wednesday in o f t h e i n t e r - a g e n c y nearby Surallah town in provincial peace and order South Cotabato. council, on Thursday One of the two suspects condemned the murder reportedly alighted from of Macababbad. the motorcycle that Tamayao assured p u l l e d o v e r n e a r t h e to work, along with the house of the victim, Juan South Cotabato Provincial Macababbad, and shot Police, in putting closure him with a pistol killing to the incident. him on the spot. Macababbad was The duo hurriedly k n o w n f o r h i s b e i n g e s c a p e d u s i n g t h e i r helpful to poor residents m o t o r c y c l e p a r k e d of Surallah and nearby nearby. towns in South Cotabato. Lawyer Remegio He was popular for R o x a s , p r e s i d e n t o f his free legal services the Integrated Bar of to unschooled members the Philippines-South of the T’boli and Blaan Cotabato Chapter, indigenous people immediately confirmed from upland ancestral the incident saying they enclaves around. John have asked the police to Felix Unson

Cotabato Light gets safety seal certificates THE Cotabato City government and the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao have issued safety seal certificates to the Aboitiz-owned Cotabato Light and Power Company (Cotabato Light) for ensuring safety of employees, clients and stakeholders by implementing health protocols. T h e S a f e t y Seal Certifications recognized Cotabato Light for its compliance on health protocol requirements set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on COVID-19. It is a voluntary certification scheme that affirms that an establishment is compliant with the

minimum public health standards set by the government and uses or integrates its contact tracing tool. On September 14, MP Minister Romeo Sema, BARMM labor minister, has granted the safety seal certificate to Cotabato Light while Ms. Leah Ebita-Villajuan, Cotabato City Business Permit and Licensing Division Head of the LGU issued the same to Cotabato Light last September 7, 2021. “We continue to spread positive energy across our business and communities as we perform our duties under the unique conditions amid these current times,” said Valentin S.

Lawyer’s killer posed as his client By Edwin O. Fernandez

POLICE authorities in South Cotabato said one of the gunmen who shot Atty. Juan Macababbad on Wednesday posed as client seeking the lawyer’s services. Major Romy Castañares, police chief of Surallah, South Cotabato, said one of three men called on the 68-year-old Atty. Macababbad at about 5:30 so he will come out of his house in Zone 2B, Barangay Libertad, Surallah. “While he was opening the steel gate of his home, he was shot at close range,” Castañares said of the unsuspecting human rights lawyer. “He sustained bullet wounds in the head and body,” he added. Probers are looking at various possible motives,

Castañares said, including matters related to his works and the coming elections. Responding police officers found a folder containing documents left by the suspects who hurriedly left after the shooting. Investigators believed that the folder was used as a tool to convince the lawyer his “guest” was not a bad guy. Castañares said Macababbad’s relatives claimed he has been receiving death threats but did not elaborate. Police found seven empty shells for cal. 45 pistol at the crime scene. Atty. Remegio Roxas, president of IBP-South Cotabato/GenSan chapter, described the slain lawyer as “dedicated

DID YOU KNOW? September is Anti-Rat Campaign September was declared Anti-Rat Campaign Month by virtue of Proclamation No. 179 signed on Aug. 11, 1955 by then President Ramon Magsaysay. There were 1,030 cases of leptospirosis reported nationwide to the Department of Health from January 1 to June 9 this year, which is 41% higher than the number recorded during the same period last year. Of this number, 339 were laboratory-tested and 77 turned positive for Leptospirosis. There were 93 deaths recorded.

SAFETY SEAL AWARDEE. On separate awarding rites, Anna Lea Nataño, the Cotabato Light human resources division head, receives safety seal certificates from Minister Romeo Sema of MOLE-BARMM (left photo) and Leah Ebita-Villajuan, head of the Cotabato City business permit and licensing division, on Sept. 14, 2021, and Sept. 7, 2021, respectively. Photo courtesy of MOLE-BARMM

September 18, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Marawi Compensation Act gains headway

STAKEHOLDERS are certain the House Bill 9925, now in the Senate, will hasten the restoration of normalcy in the conflict-wracked Marawi City once enacted into law.

House Bill 9925 is more known as the Marawi Compensation Act that the House of Representatives approved on third reading last Monday. Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong, Jr. said Saturday the proposed measure, transmitted to the Senate Tuesday, will hasten the rebuilding of Marawi City from devastation wrought by the May 23 to October 16, 2017 conflict instigated by the Maute terror group. Marawi City is the capital of Lanao del Sur, one of five provinces of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Adiong said the Senate has its version of the measure, the Senate Bill 1395. “We are wishing for this proposal to get fully legislated soon,” he said. A number of barangays in Marawi City, from among more than 90, got ruined by the 2017 conflict, sparked by the religious adventurism of the Maute terror group. The group --- whose founders, the siblings Omarkhayam and Abdullah

Maute, both perished during their siege of Marawi City --- operated in the fashion of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. The hostilities resulted in the deaths of more than a thousand people, mostly villagers caught in the crossfire. No fewer than a hundred soldiers and policemen were killed in action during the five-month conflict that displaced some 300,000 people and left a dozen historic, centuries-old Maranao villages in ruins. “This has been the longtime clamor of the people of Lanao del Sur. We have been wishing for the passage of the Marawi Compensation Bill,” Adiong said Saturday. He said his administration is t hankful to the House of Representatives for having approved House Bill 9925 on third reading last Monday. The BARMM government and the Southern Philippines Development Authority are both supporting the proposed Marawi Compensation Act, or MCA.

Gerry Salapuddin, SPDA administrator, said he is optimistic that the Senate will accelerate the passage of the MCA. “That will give justice to the Maranao people and the non-Maranaos who suffered so much from the Marawi siege now in a still so saddening situation,” Salapuddin then said. He said the MCA will accelerate the restoration of peace and normalcy in Marawi City. “We are thankful to the House of Representatives for that,” Salapuddin said. BARMM Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo said the BARMM leadership is just as grateful to the House of Representatives. Sinarimbo, Bangsamoro regional spokesperson, said the BARMM government is concerned with the rebuilding of Marawi City via infrastructure, socio-economic and other humanitarian interventions. “We want the conflict-stricken areas there to rise again,” Sinarimbo said. John Felix Unson

NoCot village execs, workers isolated, quarantined

MORE than 50 village officials and workers of a remote barangay in Cotabato province have been placed under isolation and home quarantine due to their exposure to a village council member who tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). “Many of us remain asymptomatic but some are feverish but not weak,” Ronaldo Oñas, a member of Barangay Council

of San Isidro village in Midsayap, North Cotabato province. “One of us have been tested positive to COVID-19, so all of us have to be isolated and swabbed,” he said, adding that their families are also quarantine. Of the 53 total number, 26 have remained in isolation at the barangay facility while 27 are under home quarantine. Aside from village

officials, from barangay chairperson to office workers, also isolated and quarantined are members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team. “We are still waiting for the result of our reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction tests,” Oñas said Wednesday. They were swabbed Tuesday. He said all barangay hall transactions in San Isidro were suspended for

the next 14 days to allow disinfection and contact tracing. On Wednesday, Dr. Eva Rabaya, North Cotabato health chief, reported that the provincial IATF has monitored six delta variant cases but all them have fully recovered. As of Sept. 14, North Cotabato has 8,140 with 1,392 active cases while COVID-19-related deaths was at 370 since March 2020. Edwin O. Fernandez

3 jailed for possession of explosives

KORONADAL CITY — The police filed on Monday criminal charges against three persons from whom soldiers seized explosives during a checkpoint operation in Banga, South Cotabato the day before. Soldiers belonging to the 5th Special Forces Battalion foiled Sunday an attempt by the suspects to smuggle a grenade and an improvised explosive device into the town proper of Banga, South Cotabato. Col. Jemuel Siason, director of the South Cotabato provincial

police, identified the suspects as Merlyn Bansil Guisan, 42, Ronald Olin Bansil, 27, and the 30-year-old Andy Gelodin Meno, now locked in a detention facility of the Banga municipal police. They were intercepted by personnel of the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion in a checkpoint at Lambukay Area in Barangay Lamba in Banga, while on a motorcycle together en route to somewhere in the municipality. Soldiers led by Sgt. Douglas

Bersamin, Jr. found in their bags an MK2 fragmentation grenade and an IED that can be detonated from a distance using a mobile. Officials of the 5th SF Battalion and the Banga municipal police are convinced the three suspects are members of the New People’s Army. Siason said Guisan, Bansil and Meno are to be rosecuted for illegal possession of explosives. Sources said Monday afternoon that cases had been filed against the three suspects. John Felix Unson

LIFE SAVER GONE. A fire in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat came at a time when there is a universal need for medical oxygen due to pandemic. Undetermined amount of medical oxygen were damaged in a fire that hit Isulan’s commercial district Thursday night.

Photo courtesy of Amiel M. Cagayan

Delta variants now in Maguindanao

MAGUINDANAO health officials today confirmed that two cases of Covid-19 delta variant have been monitored in the province. However, Dr. Elizabeth Samama, provincial health officer, was quick to allay fears since the two patients have fully recovered and no signs they have “passed on” the Covid delta variant to family members or anybody. “We only have two cases of Covid-19 with delta variant,” said Samama who also heads the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO-Maguindanao). They were Overses Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have retuned home to the municipalities of Datu Paglas and Datu Blah Sinsuat municipalities.

“We have conducted massive contact tracing and we found no indications that the two OFWs served as spreader, we have no proof to that so far,” Samama said. She also assured the public that the two OFWs have “already recovered when they returned home.” “But we are not complacent, we remain on alert and not lower our guards,” she added. To date, IPHO Maguindanao has already vaccinated more than 109,000. According to the Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOH-BARMM), Maguidanao has a total of 2,796 confirmed Covid patients with 110 fatalites and 2,390 recoveries. Edwin O.

Fernandez

2 students slain inside MSU Marawi

INVESTIGATORS are still clueless on the murder of two students inside the supposedly secured campus of the Mindanao State University in Marawi City at about dusk Tuesday. Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, director of the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region, said Tuesday he has directed the Marawi City police to immediately identify the killers of college students Zinal Omar and Hamzah Rauf for prosecution. A suspected hired killer casually approached the duo while at a pathway near the graduate school building of the staterun university and repeatedly shot them with a pistol, killing them both instantly. Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong, Jr.

and Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra have condemned the atrocity in separate statements Wednesday. Marawi City is the capital of Lanao del Sur, a component-province of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. “The Marawi City police office had also been directed to tap the help of school officials in identifying the culprits," Ugale said. Talks have been spreading around purporting that only one of the two victims could be the target of the attack. Local police probers are still trying to connect with potential witnesses to the murder of Omar and Rauf, who hailed from Taraka, Lanao del Sur and Baloi, Lanao del Norte, respectively. John

KORONADAL CITY — Police operatives arrested an alleged child molester and three rape suspects in separate operations in South Cotabato province Thursday. Police Col. Jemuel Siason, director of the South Cotabato provincial police, said Friday personnel of the Tiboli municipal police first arrested Jick-Jick Liwa Malones, 21, who is wanted for violation of Republic Act 7610, or the Anti-Child Abuse Law. The Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in Surallah, South Cotabato, which issued the warrant for his arrest, recommended an P80,000 bail for his temporary liberty. Subsequently, another resident of T’boli, a hinterland town in South Cotabato, the 71-year-old Doming Ganding Sutet, was arrested for a rape offense. Sutet, charged with rape before the RTC Branch 45 in the province,

was nabbed after T’boli municipal police personnel had clamped down Malones. Siason said both suspects voluntarily yielded when policemen showed them the warrants for their arrest. Members of the Surallah municipal police force arrested in the faraway General Santos City rape suspect Rodrigo Maglante, 62. He is wanted for a pending rape case at the RTC Branch 63 in Surallah town, where he was said to have perpetrated the offense. Siason identified the third rape suspect now in police custody as Edmar Palencia, 40, a resident of Norala, South Cotabato. The warrant for his arrest came from the RTC Branch 44 in South Cotabato. Siason said Palencia is now locked in a detention facility of the Norala municipal police, awaiting prosecution. John Felix

Felix Unson

Child molester, 3 rape suspects arrested

Unson

September 18, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

With crimes down, NPAs...from P10

Brig. Gen. Potenciano Camba, commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade, said more than 100 New Peoples’ Army guerillas have surrendered to military authorities as a result of the government’s End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) program. “We have shown the rebels that the government under President Duterte is sincere in bringing peace down to the locality in the countryside where the communist rebels used to operate,” Gen. Camba said. Camba lauded Gov. Catamco for supporting the implementation of ELCAC programs that led to its success.

The 10th Infantry Division, through Brig. Gen. Camba, awarded Catamco with “Plaque of Agila Award” in recognition to her support to the government’s whole of nation approach in solving insurgency. Besides, the provincial government also extended full support to logistical needs of the military stationed in the province. Colonel Jovencio Gonzales, 602nd brigade commander, also lauded Gov. Catamco for her determination to support all programs of the Armed Forces aimed at bringing peace and development in the locality. Edwin O.

la wyer d efend ing t he Indigenous People and other marginalized groups, truly a human rights defender.” At the time of his death, Macababbad chairs the Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM) Soccsksargen chapter and National Union of Peoples Lawyers (NUPL). He is also a member of Bayan Muna. He is more known in Surallah and South Cotabato as “abogado sa mga kabus” (poor peoples’ lawyer) for providing probono services to indigents who needs legal defenders. Atty. Antonio Azarcon, chair of UPLM said Macababbad was the 58th lawyer under the Duterte administration. “While the case may go through the usual investigation, as with the other growing number of unresolved cases, it is clear that the murder of Atty. Macababbad is connected to his vocation of lawyering for the people. Atty. Macababbad has been receiving death threats before his murder,” the UPLM said in a statement. Azarcon said: “The climate of impunity pervades with the lack of serious investigation and prosecution over thousands of extrajudicial killings in the country.” “Our colleagues have become main targets especially those who resist tyranny and defend human rights,” the UPLM added. Karapatan grieves with the family, friends and colleagues of Atty. Juan Macababbad, Vice Chairperson of the Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao, as we deplore his killing this afternoon. Karapatan Alliance Philippines is a leftwing non-governmental

organization and human rights alliance that conducts research and advocacy of human rights campaigns as well as monitoring and documentation of human rights violations. It said in a statement that Atty. Macababbad served as legal counsel to Indigenous Peoples, teachers and community members in the SOCSKSARGEN. He joined several fact-finding missions, including the fact-finding mission on the massacre of IP leaders in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. He likewise lawyered for political prisoners in the region. He received death threats before his murder, purportedly due to his staunch human rights advocacy. It said: “Such attacks against those in the legal profession, particularly against the committed and tireless human rights defenders among them, should stop.” “We demand justice for Atty. Macababbad and all lawyers killed under this administration. We call for accountability for those who are fostering this climate of impunity that has led to these killings and attacks against those who serve the poor and vulnerable communities,” Karapatan said. IBP’s Atty. Roxas has called on the police to identify the culprit, arrest them, file charges and let the public know the mastermind. Macababbad run and lost in the 2019 local elections in Surallah where he sought the vice mayoral post with former Board Member Romulo Solivio. Both did not make it.

Fernandez

Lawyer’s killer posed...from P1

SULTAN PAWNSHOP

PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE TACTICAL OPERATIONS WING WESTMIN Tactical Operations Group 12 Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao

corner Bonifacio and Don Rufino Alonzo Sts., Cotabato City

NOTICE OF SALE THROUGH PUBLIC BIDDING The ACC Disposal Committee will conduct Public Bidding on 01 October 2021 at HTOG 12, PAF for the sale of an unserviceable property on “As is where is” basis. LOT NR

PARTICULAR

LOCATION

2020-07-020

Forty Eight (48) Drums of Contaminated Jet A-1 fuel and Empty Drums

TOG 12

Interested bidders may secure the bid forms at TOG 12 from 20 September-01 October 2021 from 9:00AM - 4:00PM upon presentation of valid Identification Card, Business Permit and Residence Certificate. Deadline for submission or sealed bids is on 01 October 2021 at 9:00AM. Bidders are required to inspect the properties to determine their actual condition before the bidding, Inspection schedule will be from 20 September-01 October 2021 from 9:30AM — 4:00PM. Bid bond deposit is required in the form of cash and / or manager’s/cashier’s check equivalent to ten percent (10%) of the offered price in favour of PAF. Pre-bid conference is on 01 October 2021, 9:00AM at TOG 12, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. PAF DISPOSAL COMMITTEE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY OR ALL BIDS, TO WAIVE ANY DEFFECTS FOUND THEREIN AND TO ACCEPT SUCH BIDS AS MAY BE CONSIDERED MOST ADVANTAGEOUS TO THE PAF. For inquires, call 2LT MARLON M MARQUEZ PAF at PLDT 064-431-0388 or CP# 09106971991.

MC: Sept. 18, 2021

(SGD.) ROMAN M DIOSO Col, PAF (MNSA) Chief of Command Staff Chairman, Disposal Committee

Ang Sultan Pawnshop ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong Pebrero 2021. Ang subasta ay sa Oktubre 04, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng mga umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Sept. 18 & 25, 2021

ANNOUNCEMENT Ang G’ ROCE Pawnshop sa Cotabato City at G’ ROCE Pawnshop Damosa, Davao City Branch ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Setyembre 28, 2021 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Nobyembre, Disyembre, 2020 at Enero 2021. Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta.

MC: Sept 18, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late ROBERT LU CADULONG, who died on July 23, 2021 in Pikit, Cotabato, left parcels of land Lot No. 352 Ts-264, Lot No. 473, Ts 264, and Lot F-2-K, Psd-12-010085, all located at Poblacion, Pikit, Cotabato and covered by OCT P 54380 Free Patent XII-4-4-197, TCT Nos. T-112451 and T-83471, respectively, containing the total area of 1,660 square meters, more or less, are the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Alnessa Thea V. Repollo-Uy, REB as per Doc. No. 329; Page No. 67; Book No. XVII; Series of 2021.

MC: Sept. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

September 18, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Cotabato Light gets safety seal ...from P1

Saludes III, President and COO of Cotabato Light. “With COVID-19 threat still looming around, we strictly adhere to government regulations and protocols on minimum health standards. We value our employees, customers, partners and stakeholders, thus we are passionate to find better ways to improve our working conditions in order to provide safe, sufficient and reliable power to keep the lights on for our customers and to the communities we serve as we help in

advancing business and communities," Saludes added. Earlier in July, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy in the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (MENREBARMM) has recognized Cotabato Light for being compliant to Philippine Environmental laws, rules and regulations. “This is truly a testament that Cotabato Light is committed and endeavors to pursue excellence in customer service, quality, environmental and

occupational health and safety," he added. The grant of the SSC to Colight was premised on its compliance with safety protocols essential to the protection of its personnel from work hazards. MOLE-BARMM is enforcing the safety regulations as part of its labor sector welfare programs. The MOLE-BARMM covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Marawi, Cotabato and Lamitan. Arlene Valdez-

Hepiga and John Unson

3 archbishops call to resist killings..from P6

also criticized the government’s response to the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic, which already killed more than 34,000 people in the country. “Incompetence kills people. Ineptitude kills nations and economies. Hunger kills slowly,” they said. “Bullets kill. Viruses kill. Governance without direction kills. Corruption kills. Trolls kill with fake news. Hunger kills.” “When will the killings stop? The poor pay for the corruption of the powerful. The nation is sinking in debt,” the prelates added. The archbishops also supported an ongoing investigation into the alleged poor handling by the Health department of about P67 billion funds meant to respond to the pandemic.

“We commend, bless and encourage the full investigation, by those in authority, of any whiff of corruption; as we also reproach, rebuke and censure those who obstruct the legal process to arrive at truth and justice,” they said. Penitence, atonement The archbishops ended their statement with a call for “penitence and atonement for our national and personal sins”. They said that parishes can organize penitential rosaries and reparation prayers to the Divine Mercy “that the Lord may forgive our murders and our support for murders”. “May our penitence lead us to generous and courageous works of mercy and charity in our own personal little ways,” they said.

RBOI okays first P398-M investment in...from P1 The approval was reached during Friday’s RBOI board meeting at its office inside the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City. It is an investment project of Eight Z’s Properties Building Rental located in the city. Lawyer Ishak Mastura, RBOIBARMM chair, said the proponent intends to revive the Old Barter Tourism Center in Cotabato City wherein traditional barter goods, unique ethnic merchandise and souvenirs from the different Moro and Indigenous tribes and from the BIMP-EAGA, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia, will be showcased and sold to tourists and visitors, who go to Cotabato City. “This is significant investment for us because this is the first investment registered with RBOI-BARMM for Cotabato City since it joined the BARMM after the Bangsamoro Organic Law plebiscite in 2019 signaling to the business sector and investors,” Mastura said. “As the provisional capital of BARMM, this city continues to be a vibrant and strategic gateway destination for investments in the region,” he said. The type of business is for stall rentals and tourism promotions showcasing handicrafts, souvenirs, brassware, traditional Moro crafts like Inaul (i.e. hand weaved Malongs, a type of tubular garment found throughout Southeast Asia), and Muslim native food delicacies (i.e. kumukunsi, titadtag, dudul, panialam, bulwa, tipas, etc.). Barter trade centers are so popular to

tourists and visitors who come to Mindanao, particularly in the BARMM, because of the distinctiveness of the merchandise that are being sold. Barter goods and souvenir items with their native and Islamic motifs and designs such as Arabic calligraphy, ‘batik and baju kurong’ and Hijab fashion ware including Halal products coming from BIMP-EAGA, particularly from Malaysia and Indonesia, are found in traditional barter trade centers throughout Mindanao. Cities in Mindanao like Zamboanga, Davao and General Santos have their own mini barter trade centers that cater to tourists and visitors. Serving as a tourist attraction, while catering to the religious practices, worship and related activities of Muslim visitors from here and abroad, a Masjid or mosque will be built alongside the building complex and it is envisioned to provide an educational experience for visitors regarding the Islamic faith. Tourism related facilities and Barter Trade in relation to BIMP-EAGA are listed in the regional Investment Priorities Plan 2020. The total cost of the project is P398,400,000 and will generate job employment of 424 both direct and indirect with Pioneer Status and Pioneer Incentives. Fiscal incentives will be given by the RBOI-BARMM, such as income tax holiday, reduced duties for the importation of capital equipment, tax credit, deductions on labor expense, etc. together with non-fiscal incentives, such as facilitation in customs procedures. RBOI-BARMM news release

CBCP News

BTA member pushes for revival of barter trading

A bill aspiring to create a BARMM’s Barter Trade Center (BTC) has been filed and is now on second reading in the plenary of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). “Barter Trade is a lifeline that will help sustain the relationship of the Philippine Government through the Bangsamoro Autonomous Government with these three friendly countries [Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and Malaysia],” MP Modayao Sacar bill’s author said. Said center, according

to him, would serve as a venue for political and economic development in the region. (See banner story on page 1) Under the proposed bill, the BTC will serve and cater to the entrepreneurial activities of traders operating in the region and other neighboring countries such as Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the East ASEAN growth area. In October 2018, an executive order from President Rodrigo Duterte provided the revival of the barter system in Mindanao.

Among its objectives are to foster an economic environment that is conducive for business growth, nurture traders’ entrepreneurial skills, regulate barter operations, and develop linkages between barter and regional government. If enacted, the center would operate under the directive and supervision of the Chief Minister. The bill is now referred to committees on Trade, Investment, and Tourism and Finance, Budget and Management for deliberation. BTA Media

SECURITY MEASURE. Police teams in Cotabato City have been setting up random checkpoints in strategic sites for more than a week now to prevent carrying of unlicensed firearms and trafficking of shabu anywhere in the city’s 37 barangays. John Felix Unson

NoCot PDC pushes for P98-M fund to boost COVID-19 response KIDAPAWAN CITY — The North Cotabato Provincial Development Council (PDC) is pushing for a PHP98-million fund to step up its response against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In a statement Wednesday, North Governor Nancy Catamco said the fund proposal is subject to approval by members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP). The PDC, led by Catamco, met Tuesday to tackle and approve the funding proposal on its level. “This resolution is set for endorsement before the SP with the hope that it will be swiftly and justifiably approved,” she

said. Catamco said the fund will be used to upgrade hospital wards, operating rooms, and intensive care units in COVID-19 referral facilities. “A part of the funds will also be utilized for the procurement of medical, dental, and laboratory supplies; and the planned installation of oxygen generators to augment the supply of oxygen in all COVID-19 referral hospitals,” she added. Dr. Eva Rabaya, head of the integrated provincial health office, said the province currently has 1,392 active COVID-19 cases. PNA

BTA wants to grant long-serving teachers permanent status A group of lawmakers in the expertise, and years of the problem persisted

RESCUED AND RELEASED. Enviroment officials in SArangani freed on Tuesday a Philippine serpent eagle (Spilornis holospilus) and Yellow-headed water monitor lizard (Varanus cumingi) back to the wild. These endangered species were recently rescued in the area.

Photo courtesy of DENR Soccsksargen

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has filed a bill proposing to grant permanent status to nonpassers of the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) who have served for at least 10 years in the region. Bangsamoro Transition Authority – BARMM Members of Parliament (MPs) Abdulraof Macacua, Eduard Guerra, ZiaurRahman Adiong, and Abdullah Hashim filed the proposal during the BTA session here on Tuesday. The authors noted that BTA Bill 122, also known as the "Provisional Teachers Act of 2021", intends to recognize the provisional teachers' contribution,

service in the region. P r o v i s i o n a l appointments, as defined in the 2017 Omnibus Rules on Appointments and Other Human Resource Actions, are made to appointees who meet all of the position's requirements except eligibility. In the case of the defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Muslim Act 303, or the Strengthened Basic Education Act in ARMM of 2012, provides mechanisms for provisional teachers to be given permanent status, either through years of service or a moratorium for which they can take the licensure exam. "Unfortunately,

and is now inherited by BARMM," Adiong said in an explanatory note. "By granting them (provisional teachers) permanent status under certain conditions, the authors believe that this would be the (most just) recourse to resolving the issue and ensure that they continue to contribute to the development of the Bangsamoro." Under the proposed bill, all non-LET passers who have served the nowdefunct DepEd-ARMM for at least 10 years will be given permanent status if they meet the qualifications for the post, which include: “Teacher must have rendered a continuous service

THE MINDANAO CROSS

September 18, 2021

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF MAGUINDANAO Buluan, Maguindanao

MAGUINDANAO SOCIO-ECOLOGICAL PROFILE 2019 | Ang Makabagong Maguindanao

BRIEF HISTORY OF MAGUINDANAO Maguindanao was derived from the two word “maginged” and “danaw” which means people of the marshy or people of the flooded plains. In the early 1400 traders from the nearby Malay states trade with the Maguindanao and influenced the culture of the region. It is believed that Islam first came to the region on 1460, with the arrival of Sharif Awliya, who married a Maguindanaon. The introduction of Islam and its institution has been credited to Sheriff Mohammed Kabungsuwan, a Johore Muslim who established the Sultanate of Maguindanao sometime in 1515. Over the years, several Sultanates were established to rule over the region, the most significant of which are the Sultanates of Cotabato, Buayan, and Kabuntalan.

Shariff Mohammed Kabungsuwan

The Spaniards tried to conquer Maguindanao as early as 1596 but were thwarted by the stiff resistance of the Maguindnaos. From 1600-1650, the Sultan of Maguindanao, Sultan Mohammad Dipatuan Kudarat expanded the realm subject to the Maguindanao Sultanate and its height of power, it held sway over the region as from the Gulf of Davao all the way to Dapitan. Upon his death, however, the sultanate was fragmented into several rivals’ sultanates and towards the middle of the 19th century, Maguindanao power had waned considerably.

In 1851, Spanish forces attacked and seized Polloc. A naval base was established in the town and in 1854, a separate politico-military district was created. In 1861, following more expeditions by the Spaniards, the Sultan of Maguindanao recognized Spanish sovereignty. Resistance continued in the Upper Pulangi directed by Datu Utto by superior Spanish arms allowed the Spaniards to remain in Maguindanao until 1899. In that year, following the evacuation of Spanish forces from the region. Upper Pulangi datus attacked and occupied Cotabato until the Americans arrived.

Governor Candao won as Regional Governor of the ARMM making then Vice Governor Norodin A. Matalam take over the gubernatorial seat, and he also won as Governor in 1992 election. In 1995 election, Atty. Zacaria A. Candao was back as the governor and was re-elected in May 1998 election.

Provincial Capitol, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao

In the May 14, 2001 elections, Datu Andal S. Ampatuan, Sr. won as the fifth elected Governor of Maguindanao, and succeeded by his son, then Vice – Governor Datu Sajid Islam U. Ampatuan in 2008.

Provincial Capitol, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao

On December 21, 2009, the Department of the Interior and Local Government issued a Memorandum Order appointing Hon. Bai Nariman A. Ambolodto as the Provincial Governor of Maguindanao, ended her term as Acting Governor on February 22, 2010 and on February 23, 2010, the Regional Governor Ansaruddin A. Adiong appointed Datu Gani O. Biruar as Governor of Maguindanao. On July 01, 2010, Esmael G. Mangudadatu assumed his post as the 6th elected Governor of the Province of Maguindanao until June 30, 2019.

The district of Cotabato was created in 1860 following the reorganization of Spanish government in Mindanao. In 1903, following the Sultan Mohammad Dipatuan establishment of the Moro Province, Kudarat Cotabato become one of its districts, Maguindanao continued to be part of the province of Cotabato until November 1973 when the province was divided into three provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat by virtue of Predential Degree No. 341. HISTORY OF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF MAGUINDANAO The Province of Maguindanao was once part of the Province of Cotabato where almost all of its inhabitants are Bangsamoro people. In 1967, by virtue of Congressional Act, the Province of Cotabato was divided into two (2) provinces, Cotabato and South Cotabato.

Rajah Buayan Silongan Peace Center, Provincial Satellite Office, Buluan, Maguindanao

In the May 13, 2019 mid-term election, Hon. Bai Mariam SangkiMangudadatu won as the first elected Lady Governor of the Province of Maguindanao. Her governance thrusts is guided by the 10- point Socio Economic Development Agenda which was derived from her slogan the “MAKABAGONG Maguindanao”,

It was November 22, 1973 when the Province of Cotabato was again divided into three (3) provinces. Thus, the Provincial Government of Maguindanao Province of Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat came into existence. The newly separated Maguindanao Province was administered by then Governor Atty. Simeon A. Datumanong, followed by Atty. Zacaria A. Candao. On 1977, Datu Sanggacala M. Baraguir of Sultan Kudarat Municipality was appointed as Governor. He was then succeeded by Atty. Sandiale A. Sambolawan who also won the 1980 elections. In 1986, Atty. Zacaria A. Candao was appointed as Governor of Maguindanao and He was also elected as Governor in the 1989 election. After the creation of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,

Provincial Capitol, Buluan, Maguindanao

September 18, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Cardinal Advincula honors COVID-19 frontliners

CARDINAL Jose Advincula of Manila on Wednesday offered Mass for COVID-19 frontliners, honoring them for their service and sacrifice.

In his homily at the San Felipe Neri Parish Church in Mandaluyong City, he said that frontliners are “modern day heroes” fulfilling their mission. “Like the Blessed Mother, God chose you to do an important mission, God chose you to be His instruments. That’s why in this battle against Covid-19, you are the heroes,” Advincula said. The cardinal emphasized that the contributions of frontliners were not just part of their job but also a response to their mission. “You are not just doing us a favor; you are also doing God a favor so He is

also thankful for your services. What you are doing is not just work, it is a mission,” he said. During the Mass, some doctors, nurses, hospital personnel, food delivery staff, military, and police offered candles and prayers to a memorial of fallen heroes of the pandemic. “Thank you because by the services you provide, you keep many of us safe,” Advincula said. “Continue to show your love for God through your service to others.” Mariel Celine L. Serquiña/

CBCP News

From left, Archbishop Marlo Peralta of Nueva Segovia, Archbishop Socrates Villegas of LingayenDagupan, and Archbishop Ricardo Baccay of Tuguegarao.

Photo courtesy of OF Paul Peter Valdepeñas & Sabins Studio

3 archbishops call to resist killings, corruption

Cardinal Jose Advincula of Manila presides over Mass for COVID-19 frontliners at the San Felipe Neri Parish in Mandaluyong City on Sept. 15, 2021. Photo courtesy of RCAM-AOC

THREE Catholic archbishops have joined voices urging the faithful to “resist” what they described as “a murderous and corrupt public order”. In a statement, Archbishops Marlo Peralta of Nueva Segovia, Socrates Villegas of LingayenDagupan, and Ricardo Baccay of Tuguegarao said that doing so is a moral imperative. “We have moral duty to resist and correct a culture of murder and plunder as much as the prolonged patter of hiding or destroying the truth,”

they said. But the church leaders called for “non-violent” actions, saying that it is “the only morally acceptable resistance”. Among these activities, they said, can include peaceful assemblies of dissent, sober discussions of social issues guided by the Gospel, or rallies for honesty and heroism. The joint statement of Northern Luzon archbishops will be read in their respective cathedrals on Sunday, Sept. 12. The archbishops lamented how the past five

years have been marked by rampant killings of drug suspects, journalists, political opponents, lawyers, and even priests. “It is like living in the valley of death— killing of drug users and opponents; helpless death in the pandemic, death by governance without vision, death by shameless corruption that seems to break all records,” they said. “The killers are at large and the blind supporters of these murderers applaud the killers,” they added. Full investigation The archbishops

Don’t allow pandemic to ‘paralyze’ pastoral care, priests told A Catholic archbishop in northern Philippines urged his priests not to let the difficulties brought by the pandemic stop them from reaching out to their flock. Archbishop Marlo Peralta of Nueva Segovia said the restrictions to contain the surging Covid-19 cases must lead the priests in finding “creative ways” to provide pastoral care to those in need. “As priests, while we are also afraid of the Covid virus, let us not allow our

fears to paralyze us into action, forgetting the people who need us, especially during these times,” Peralta said in a circular dated Sept. 8. The archbishop particularly asked the priests to find ways to continue to celebrate Mass where needed. He stressed that as people go through a lot of suffering because of the health crisis, “they always long for the Eucharist as their source of strength”.

“They are always waiting for us to celebrate the Mass for them… Let us not disappoint them,” Peralta said. He also reminded the priests of their obligation to anoint the sick, especially those who are seriously ill and who are at the point of death. The prelate said priests may simply take cue from health workers who, despite their fears, continue to care for Covid-19 patients with the necessary

he gospels of the last two should do nothing.” Kennedy Sunday showed us a attributed this quotation to reversion of conventional Edmund Burke, although values. The voiceless is heard some say it is from John and healed. Jesus predicted Stuart Mill. his own suffering as Messiah, This issue confronts the a suffering servant rather than disciple of Jesus in this age. a conquering king. In today’s On one hand, there are people Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC gospel Jesus gave importance who cannot stand goodness tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com to the powerless, “Whoever and righteousness as stated welcomes such a child in my name. welcomes me” (Mk. in the first reading taken from the book of Wisdom. “Let us 9:37). Before that he said, If someone wants to be first, let set a trap for the righteous, for he annoys us and opposes him be last of all and servant of all” (Mk. 9:35). The word our way of life, he reproaches us for our breaches of the Law for child in Aramaic is “talya” which also means servant. and accuses us of being false to our upbringing.” (Wis. 2:12). They are of no importance. Why did Jesus give importance On the other hand the second reading from James advises to the voiceless, the powerless, and those in the margins the disciple to pursue goodness. “Instead the wisdom that of society? comes from above is pure and peace-loving. Persons with This Sunday’s story was occasioned by the argument this wisdom show understanding and listen to advice; they between the apostles, about who among them was the are full of compassion and good works, they are impartial greatest. Of course they were looking forward to the time and sincere” (James 3:17ff). when the Messiah will establish his kingdom and they The disciple of Jesus who tries to pursue goodness would be taking up their proper positions as powerful in the world has to face the reality of evil situations and friends of the Big Man. The disciples did not understand malice from evil men. A group of archbishops in Northern Jesus’ prediction about the Suffering Messiah who would Luzon just came up with a document exposing and be killed and rise again (Mk. 9:31). How can one follow a condemning evil that is happening today. Last week, in messiah who would die? How can one take up the cross a pastoral message signed by Nueva Segovia Archbishop and follow Him? This doesn’t seem to be a good strategy Marlo Peralta, Lingayen Dagupan Archbishop Socrates to establish the Kingdom. A messiah should be a political Villegas, and Tuguegarao Archbishop Ricardo Baccay, leader who would challenge the might of Rome and the archbishops condemned the culture of plunder and establish a Davidic kingdom. murder, ““Bullets kill. Viruses kill. Governance without Are Christ’s disciple called to become the doormat direction kills. Corruption kills. Trolls kill with fake of others? One who would walk the extra mile, turn the news. Hunger kills. The poor pay for the corruption of other cheek and be as meek as the lamb being brought to the powerful.” The archbishops called for a “non-violent slaughter? Isn’t the Kingdom of God one of justice, peace, resistance” and full investigation on “any whiff of love and joy. But there are those who do not subscribe to corruption.” They categorically stated “We have a moral such values. They foster evil and bring injustice, strife, duty to resist and correct a culture of murder and plunder selfishness, and misery. What should be the Christian as much as the prolonged pattern of hiding or destroying disciple’s attitude in the face of evil, just let it be? Tolerate the truth.” The Christian disciple has the moral power it? Or resist it? President John F. Kennedy said “The only of the Cross. Resistance comes with a price. For evil to thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men triumph it is enough that good men do nothing. MC

The Power of the Powerless

REFLECTIONS

precautions. “If these doctors and nurses continue to give health care to COVID-19 patients, all the more reason for us priests to take care of their souls,” Peralta added. “We cannot just make our fear of exposure an excuse to refuse the Anointing of the Sick. Let us be creative to devise ways to secure an added protection for ourselves and those around us,” he also said. CBCP News

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

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time Readings:

Wisdom 2.12, 17-20; James 3.16 – 4.3; Mark 9.30-37 Almost everyone wants to be the first in everything, to be recognized, to be applauded and take the center stage. And almost everyone wants to get the credit of any actions. But this is not how Jesus wants us to live. He reminds us that if we want to be the greatest, we must deny ourselves, look after the poor, and face all our fears. This is what true greatness is all about. We only become great when we see ourselves giving up everything, I mean EVERYTHING that we have for the sake of the Kingdom. Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to be humble and to recognize the needs of others before me.

THE MINDANAO CROSS

September 18, 2021 EDITORIAL

What is Civil Service all about?

s a non-government employee, I was surprised to be reminded that this month of September has been designated as Civil Service Month under Proclamation 1050 signed in 1997 by then President Fidel Ramos based on Public Law No. 5 dating back during the 1900. It was not by accident that I chose to serve my countrymen as a private citizen. At the time when I was choosing my career path, the color of the Civil Service was not as clear as to merit my wholehearted support. My father was a judge (thus a civil servant), but only later did I realize that he belongs to the very few who were in government to uphold the values that goes with being a civil servant. Today, just reading the news gives one a general view of what is happening in government. Aside from being the biggest job generating organization, the government now gives opportunity to the unscrupulous to earn money from its transactions. It is quite sad to think that the government which was organized to provide service to the public; honest and adequate service for the marginalized and oppressed in society, is now being used for dishonest means to enrich a handful of people. Will the theme for this year “Transforming Public service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future Ready Servant Heroes” touch the lives of those who are manning the Civil Service Commission, …or will it go the way of another supposed to be “independent agency” – the Commission on Audit- whose findings are questioned by the same people they are supposed to provide support to. When shall we have that bunch of “servant heroes” who will occupy government positions that will help uplift the marginalized and oppressed in Philippine society? Just like our interpretation of “leaders”, will this government officials and employees act as supreme leaders and not as servant heroes? Here in our region, observe how some leaders and their retinue use the “wang-wang” to show their supremacy. As far as I know, only Covid 19 patients in ambulances have the permission to activate their “wang-wang” because of the life and death situation. Pardon me, but some leaders may also be in such a situation to merit the use of sirens. Best of luck! The Civil Service Commission will have its hands full in putting into motion their theme for this year. Parang “Wish ko lang!” For starters, it would be difficult to train people who spent half of their lives handling guns, and changing their status to servant heroes. It would also be difficult to train women who have not imbibed the concept of women empowerment so they can take their proper place in a “revolutionary” government. How I wish they will not be disillusioned. If the CSC will look at the way Afghanistan is transforming itself, they will see what is obviously unacceptable, and what can be adaptable in our situation. MC +

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he Bangsamoro government’s much hopedfor extension of Bangsamoro transition period until 2025 is moving much closer to realization. On Wednesday, voting 187 -0-0 , the House of Representatives passed on third and final reading House Bill 10121 which extends until 2025 the transition period in the BARMM. The bill resets the date of the first election of the 80-member Bangsamoro Parliament from May 2022 to May 2025. The Senate passed on September 6 its version of the bill, Senate Bill 2214. According to a report by Davao-based Mindanews, the two houses are expected to convene soon a bicameral conference committee to decide what version will prevail. The two versions differ on who should name new members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, with the House leaving it to President Duterte and the Senate version leaving it to the next President. In a Facebook post on Wednesday, BARMM Interior and Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo thanked all who supported the move to extend the transition period for three more years. Sinarimbo said, as he called on Congress last week to act on the proposed extension, that postponing the 2022 regional elections to 2025 would give the autonomous government enough time to complete essential tasks under the peace agreement forged between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Echoing BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim, Sinarimbo explained that the call for extension is not for the incumbent to remain in office but to allow them to complete the essential task of building a strong Bangsamoro Region as agreed with the government. “There is still so much to be done and pushing through with the elections next year will disrupt ongoing development projects and other crucial tasks like the delineation of Bangsamoro waters, measures on taxes, and collection of fees,” Sinarimbo was quoted as saying. Among those who is supporting the extension of the Bangsamoro transition period is retired Cotabato archbishop, His Eminence Orlando B. Cardinal Quevedo, a staunch supporter of the Bangsamoro Peace Process and dubbed by many as “Cardinal Peace.” In expressing his support to the extension of the transition period early this year, Cardinal Quevedo said he believes the Bangsamoro Transition Authority will not be able to complete its mandate within the currently given

EMEMBER the late Bagis Talib, leader of one of the first groups of Moro dissidents that embraced the Policy of Attraction of the Marcos administration in the 1980s. Talib wrote President Marcos in 1984, asking the government to develop an off-shore saltwater desalination facility to bring potable water to island towns-residents, who would have to fetch their drinking water from main Sulu Island. The plan never materialized in Talib’s lifetime. In Hadji Panglima Tahil town, residents risk lives transporting drums of water from main Sulu Island on turbulent waters where Sulu Sea and Indonesian Celebes Sea meet. As Bangsamoro Chief Minister Al Hadj Murad Ebrahim rightly puts it, this was the time when desalination water treatment facilities were only in industrial scale, and only the rich Middle East countries could afford its price. “I never thought that it (desalination facilities) could be reduced to potable size, like this,” Chief Minister Ebrahim points out. The Bangsamoro Government has installed desalination facilities in partnership with Water Equipment Technologies (WET) Co., Inc.—one each, in Pata, Pandami and Hadji Panglima Tahil Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, Minister of the Interior and Local Governments, says: “We continue to deliver our services to our people. Our desalination machines have been turned over to our recipient LGUs in Sulu. “We serve the displaced families in Lanao del Norte in the recent encounter between the military and DIs in the municipalities of LDN. We continue to provide transport facilitation to Covid patients being transported to medical and isolation centers. We just concluded the 3rd and final stage of interview and presentation of LCEs (local chief executives) for the Salamat Excellence Award for

Inching closer to BTA extension

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

period of transition. In a statement, he said: “Major issues still have to be resolved. Such major issues include: the status of private sectarian education in the Bangsamoro; the completion of the decommissioning process; the setting up of the Office of Settler Communities (which, as settler communities believe, should be a Commission); the critical demarcation of the ancestral domain of Indigenous Peoples as well as the determination, defense, and development of their rights; the structural and legal assurance of equality and non-discrimination of minority groups within the Bangsamoro with regard to hiring and positions. Moreover, it is not possible to establish within the allotted transition period a new political culture within the Bangsamoro that would be ruled by the principle of transparency, accountability, and efficiency - which is the professed intent of the Bangsamoro leadership.” Since this statement was issued by the Cardinal, several developments have taken place. An executive director has been appointed for the Office for Settler Communities, an indicator of the effort being put into the achievement of inclusivity in the BARMM. Within this month and perhaps until the next, a series of public hearings is expected to be held regionwide as part of the legislative process for the enactment of the “Indigenous Peoples Rights Act in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region” which aims to address issues and concerns of recognition and respect for non-Moro indigenous people’s rights in the region including the contentious question of ancestral domain or “fusaka inged”. More actions are expected to boost what has so far already been done to push and institutionalize inclusivity further in the Bangsamoro. The BTA is also given more time under an extended transition period to finally come up with an election code among others. It definitely has a lot to do, and much expectation is levelled on its shoulders, to say the least. MC

Potable water in Sulu island-towns, one old dream comes true

Penlight Nash B. Maulana

nash.penlight@gmail.com

Leadership (SEAL). The list of awardees has been announced this week. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is engaging the services of a U.S.-founded firm for Municipal Water Projects in the region’s island municipalities where potable water is truly inadequate, if not scarce a commodity. The MILG has entered into Municipal Water Projects Contracts with Water Equipment Technologies (WET) Co., Inc. for the delivery, installation and operationalization of desalination machines and apparatus in three Sulu municipalities. WET is a subsidiary company of the Dallas, Texas-based Water Equipment Technologies founded in 1975. Under one of three contracts, WET will install desalination facilities for P 5,909,000 with a processing capacity of 30,000 liters per day of saltwater converted into water for domestic use and for human consumption in Hadji Panglima Tahil, Sulu. The bidding and contract signing were made very transparent and in the presence of a COA representative. But still, this noble undertaking was assailed on an FB post, even judgmentally delving on Minister Sinarimbo’s faith and relationship with the Almighty, with his supposed “fear of COA”, “instead of the Creator.” MC

Sound amid unpredictability

our years like a sigh. We may thrive and live for 70 years or perhaps 80 and boast about it through sweat and tears, for soon it will be cut-off and we fly away. No one knows the power of God’s anger that we Charlie Señase have to fear Him so He may csenase@yahoo.com teach us to number our days and gain a heart of wisdom OMEONE quipped “We cannot `segurize’ the future” in reaction (Psalm 90:7-12). Truly, God made us upright but to a news headline that five fullyvaccinated doctors were hospitalized due we have sought out many schemes or inventions (Ecclesiastes 7:29). Thus, to severe COVID-19 infection. Others who hear the word `segurize’ we’ve been into lawlessness, prostitution, used in jest may be funny but reality is drugs and other vices that even those truth that things happen for a reason. It’s in government have become partners in not actually a laughing matter but a serious crime. The problem with ourselves is that we health concern to ponder that even experts are always learning but never able to come are vulnerable. In faith, trust no one but God to the knowledge of truth (2 Timothy 3:1-9). As a good mentor at 92, the late Almighty for He alone does not change from everlasting to everlasting He remains Patricio Diaz, would Kris-Cross to instill: “Truth hurts but truth we must to live in infallible. With the onslaught of COVID and its peace” for nothing hidden that will not be numerous variants for nearly two years exposed or nothing covered that will not be now almost all hospitals are filled up revealed in God’s time. Whatever we decide to do we must with patients in pain and dying for lack of oxygen tank supply and other remedial always be responsible to face miscarriages or misdeeds instead of having to fabricate measures. However, the government’s all out lies. Honorable men are humble to accept inoculation drive is pushing through defeat or misdemeanor. And moves to despite limited supply because of the alleviate the plight of victims in the 2017 Marawi Siege that resulted in the lost of vaccines’ surging global demand. Amid all uncertainties and threats, it’s lives and destruction to properties appear puzzling to know that the Philippines has bright in the Senate with the passage of the the oldest person alive at 124 years old. Compensation Bill which the House has The Guinness World Records Organization already approved on third reading. With estimated cost of damages placed has yet to officially declare 124-year old Francisca Susano, a native of Kabankalan, at P8 billion, the government has allotted Negros Occidental, as the world’s “super P30 billion that will serve as initial funding centenarian” outsmarting a 118-year old source, according to Senator Juan Miguel Japanese woman who is still alive despite Zubiri, one of the authors of Senate Bill 1395. the pandemic. Lawmakers said the measure when The Guinness World is still collating Philippine records and other pertinent enacted would provide compensation documents to prove authentication that to qualified claimants for those who Susano, who celebrated her 124th natal died and their residential houses or day on September 11 is the new oldest commercial establishments destroyed by person in the universe. A French woman the government air and ground assault had been adjudged the oldest in 1997 when against suspected Moro extremist and terror groups. she died at 122. While still in the process of We wonder why women are now in the Guinness World of oldest persons and not reconstruction and rehabilitation, a men as in biblical times that the prophets Japanese Embassy in Manila has warned of old had reached almost a thousand of possible terror attacks in unspecified Southeast Asian countries. The embassy years old. Because of man’s wickedness and did not bare the source of the classified bullheadedness our days have passed information but warned Japanese citizens away in God’s wrath that we may finish in these counties to be on the look out. MC

True to Form

doctors race to save more lives among the seriously infected patients, many remedies are being explored to contain the spread of this vicious delta variant. Hospitals in China has Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy been serving COFFEE 3 times a day to their patients, following franco1573victoria@gmail.com the discovery of documented case files for research purposes t long last,the DOH has allowed the use of Tocilizumab, an anti-inflammatory that proposed a cure that would significantly drug, for patients showing respiratory decrease the impact of the virus in human deterioration and those requiring high doses of body. These files were the work of Dr. Li oxygen and elevated markers of inflammation Weniliang, the said doctor , now deceased , due for serious Covid 19’cases. The drug is sold to the same disease and punished for exposing under the brand name of Actemra by Roche. the truth about the Corona Virus. Our regular coffee contains chemical The suggested retail price ranges from PHP 13,000 to 25000 a vial. It comes as compounds, Methylxanthine, Theobromine injectable solutions of 20mg/mL (4-, 10-, and and Theophyline . The coffee plant creates 20-mL single dose vials) It was approved these chemicals as a way to ward off insects in June 2021 as an EUA, Emergency Use and other animals. The main methylxanthine Authorization , for, treatment of coronavirus is coffee is the stimulant Caffeine. These disease 2019 in hospitalized adults and chemicals simulate compounds that can ward pediatric patients , older than 2 years, who are off these virus in a human with the least receiving systemic corticosteroids and require average system. (breaking news, CNN) DZRH News reported recently the studies supplemental oxygen noninvasive or invasive made by DOST at the Santa Rosa Community mechanical ventilation. Tocilizumab is considered a repurposed Hospital and Santa Rosa Isolation center. drug in the rush to find the ultimate cure DOST Usec. Rowena Guevara encourages for COVID-19. It is originally used for those who suspect they have Covid19 , feels they have fever, they can take VCO rheumatoid arthritis Sadly, many have been caught as a preventive measure to stop further overpricing to as high as PHP120,000. DOH deterioration of their health.This involves the undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire use of Virgin Coconut Oil. As a supplement, announced sanctions for those who are going one tablespoon of VCO is added to the to violate the SRP especially during this time meals three times a day. In a similar study, of the pandemic, ranging from one to 10 years Dr.Dayrit of the Ateneo University in Manila imprisonment and PHP 5000 to PHP 1 million found that VCO is 90% effective for those with fine based on the discretion of the court. She low viral load. In her column , prolific writer Rufa Giam further confirmed that there is a shortage of the drug in the Philippines driven by the interviewed fisherfolks on how they are coping surge in worldwide demand due to rising cases with the virus. They said, when they sense brought by the Delta variant. The public is they have fever, they dip in the sea for some also warned about fake Tocilizumab and those time and take paracetamol. I guess, that explains the spike of infections in that place purchased through online. Baricitinib another drug used for as reported. Epidemiologists worldwide are one in rheumatoid arthritis is a potential solution to the limited supply of tocilizumab, to saying, Covid 19 is here to stay, even beyond make up for the shortage of the drug which next year. It is a virus unlike small pox, Sars, have been said to last until end of the year. Polio, “that come, stay, then go,” or seasonal This drug is the first immunomodulatory like the flu. Therefore, we need to adjust to treatment to reduce COVID19 mortality. this new lifestyle of masks ,face shields, hand Without going through the researches washing, stay away from crowds, this is the shared by the most reputable research new normal.Science will continue to study groups, Baricitinib is placed among the few and search for the solution to this pandemic. Government will have to rethink their proven treatments of choice for hospitalized patients with Covid19. While researches and responses. MC

This is it?

The Stuff of Life

September 18, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

FLU PANDEMIC (1968) Death Toll: 1 million Cause: Influenza A category 2 Flu pandemic sometimes referred to as “the Hong Kong Flu,” the 1968 flu pandemic was caused by the H3N2 strain of the Influenza A virus, a genetic offshoot of the H2N2 subtype. From the first reported case on July 13, 1968 in Hong Kong, it took only 17 days before outbreaks of the virus were reported in Singapore and Vietnam, and within three months had spread to The Philippines, India, Australia, Europe, and the United States. While the 1968 pandemic had a comparatively low mortality rate (.5%) it still resulted in the deaths of more than a million people, including 500,000 residents of Hong Kong, approximately 15% of its population at the time.

Outbreak: 10 of the worst pandemics in history: Part 1

HEALTH CORNER

MPH ONLINE (A reprint in 2 parts)

cientists and medical researchers have for years differed over the exact definition of a pandemic (is it a pandemic, or an epidemic), but one thing everyone agrees on is that the word describes the widespread occurrence of disease, in excess of what might normally be expected in a geographical region. COVID-19 (THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS)? Beginning in December 2019, in the region of Wuhan, China, a new (“novel”) coronavirus began appearing in human beings. It has been named COVID-19, a shortened form of “coronavirus disease of 2019.” This new virus spreads incredibly quickly between people, due to its newness – no one on earth has an immunity to COVID-19, because no one had COVID-19 until 2019. While it was initially seen to be an epidemic in China, the virus spread worldwide within months. The WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic in March, and by the end of that month, the world saw more than a half-million people infected and nearly 30,000 deaths. The infection rate in the US and other nations was still spiking. HIV/AIDS PANDEMIC (AT ITS PEAK, 2005-2012) Death Toll: 36 million Cause: HIV/AIDS First identified in Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1976, HIV/AIDS has truly proven itself as a global pandemic, killing more than 36 million people since 1981. Currently there are between 31 and 35 million people living with HIV, the vast majority of those are in Sub-Saharan Africa, where 5% of the population is infected, roughly 21 million people. As awareness has grown, new treatments have been developed that make HIV far more manageable, and many of those infected go on to lead productive lives. Between 2005 and 2012 the annual global deaths from HIV/AIDS dropped from 2.2 million to 1.6 million.

ASIAN FLU (1956-1958) Death Toll: 2 million Cause: Influenza Asian Flu was a pandemic outbreak of Influenza A of the H2N2 subtype, that originated in China in 1956 and lasted until 1958. In its two-year spree, Asian Flu traveled from the Chinese province of Guizhou to Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United States. Estimates for the death toll of the Asian Flu vary depending on the source, but the World Health Organization places the final tally at approximately 2 million deaths, 69,800 of those in the US alone. FLU PANDEMIC (1918) Death Toll: 20 -50 million Cause: Influenza Between 1918 and 1920 a disturbingly deadly outbreak of influenza tore across the globe, infecting over a third of the world’s population and ending the lives of 20 – 50 million people. Of the 500 million people infected in the 1918 pandemic, the mortality rate was estimated at 10% to 20%, with up to 25 million deaths in the first 25 weeks alone. What separated the 1918 flu pandemic from other influenza outbreaks was the victims; where influenza had always previously only killed juveniles and the elderly or already weakened patients, it had begun striking down hardy and completely healthy young adults, while leaving children and those with weaker immune systems still alive. MC

Technical Writing…

to decision making, and so on. Some reports are just short and only have written words while others could be lengthy and would require the inclusion of graphs, charts, pictures, Danny Buenbrazo or annexes. danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com Proposals are another class of technical etting what an organization or an individual wants from a third- documents with a wide variety of nature party requires communication, and purpose. In the academe students verbal or in writing. However, most of and members of the faculty prepare and the time, verbal communication would defend proposals before they proceed with not suffice and ideas or proposals need a research or study. Some organizations, to be reduced to writing if the proponent non-government or even government wants them to be seriously considered agencies and local government units, prepare proposals to seek financial, and gain approval. This is true whether you are a material, or technical assistance from student, an employee, an entrepreneur, or funding agencies or donor agencies. a self-employed or freelance professional. Entrepreneurs and business firms Do not expect to graduate, achieve prepare business proposals to secure professional advancement, secure investments or loans for their business funding, or obtain approval for a project ventures. To improve your technical writing without doing some serious writing. What are the documents that a skills, the following are the important student, employee, entrepreneur, or steps to follow: Preparation, Research, self-employed professionals such as Organization, Writing, and Revision. The first step involves clarifying consultants may be required to write? The most basic documents that people the purpose and requirements for the write are those for communications: document to be written. Depending on letters and memoranda. While these the complexity of the paper, the writer/s are very basic documents, writing may need to conduct research work letters or memos can have negative to obtain information that needs to be repercussions on the organization or included on the document. Some types individual sending them. Letters should of documents have prescribed formats be properly addressed, provide basic such as research proposals or project background on its purpose, and clearly proposals, however, there are documents state if any action is required from that allow certain degree of discretion to the recipient and when such action is the writer as far as form is concerned. The heart of technical writing is expected to be done. Another category of documents putting all ideas and data into a complete that are often produced are profiles or document. Documents such as proposals background materials such as those and reports are checked by the approving about a person, place, product, or service. authority and the writers are then This type of documents should be able to required to make the necessary revisions contain all the essential information that before submitting the final version. The five steps need to be followed a one-pager or a brochure would permit and practiced so you get the hand of the writer to place. Reports are technical documents it and observing the process becomes that one is expected to write whether second nature. Practice makes perfect he/she is a student or a professional. and repeated writing would definitely These documents are prepared for a improve the quality of your output. Working in an organization or a variety of purposes: to demonstrate superior that demand high quality one’s knowledge or understanding, to provide an assessment, to provide basis output enhances one’s writing skills. MC

Market Driven

THE MINDANAO CROSS

September 18, 2021 RANEN PAWNSHOP MAIN, BRANCH I, II & III Don Rufino Alonzo & Don Tomas Martinez Sts, Cot. City

Notice for Auction

All unredeemed articles pledged on February 2021 will be auctioned on October 04, 2021 at 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Please come before October 04, 2021 for renewal or redemption.

Patalastas ng Subasta

Lahat ng sangla noong Pebrero 2020 ay ipagbibili ng Subasta sa Oktubre 04, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:30 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon. Kung maari ay pumunta bago ang Oktubre 04, 2021 para sa pagbayad ng tubo o pagtubos.

MC: Sept. 18 & 25, 2021

Ang Agencia Cirilo & Money Changer - Main, Agencia Cirilo & Money Changer Branch I, at ang Agencia Cirilo & Money Changer Quezon Avenue Branch ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Setyembre 28, 2021 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Nobyembre, Disyembre, 2020 at Enero 2021. Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta. “Ang Agencia Cirilo Sigurado at Garantisado ang Serbisyo” MC: Sept. 18, 2021

NOTICE

VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I AND BRANCH II will hold a public auction sale of all unredeemed and unrenewed items pawned from March 1 to April 30, 2021 on October 7, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., and VGM PAWNSHOP INC. II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City

SUBASTA

ANNOUNCEMENT

Be There, Management

Ang VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I ug BRANCH II magsubasta sa tanan nga wala lukata ug wala tubui gikan sa bulan sa Marso 1 hangtud sa bulan sa Abril 30, 2021 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag karung Oktubre 7, 2021 sa VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., ug sa VGM PAWNSHOP BRANCH II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City. Ang Nagdumala

MC: Sept 11, 18 & 25, 2021

ANNOUNCEMENT Ang Feroce Pawnshop & Money Changer Cotabato, Feroce Pawnshop Midsayap Branch, Kidapawan Branch, Toril Branch at ang Feroce Pawnshop San Pedro Branch, Davao City ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Setyembre 28, 2021 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 5:00 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Nobyembre, Disyembre, 2020 at Enero 2021. Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas na isinangla magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta. “Sa Feroce Pawnshop na tayo kumpleto na ang serbisyo” MC: Sept. 18, 2021

Notice for Auction

Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV in Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak announce the Auction Sale of all unredeemed pledges contracted September 1-30, 2020 at 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main 4J Bldg. Corner Jose Lim Sr., and Don Roman Vilo St. Cotabato City. Auction sale will be on September 29, 2021.

Patalastas ng Subasta

ANNOUNCEMENT

Ang 3G Pawnshop Main & Money Changer, 3G Pawnshop & Money Changer Branch I at ang 3G Pawnshop & Money Changer Hi-Way Branch ng Cotabato City, at ang 3G Pawnshop Midsayap Cotabato, ay magkakaroon ng “Subasta Sale” sa darating na Setyembre 28, 2021 sa ganap na alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:30 ng hapon para sa mga hindi natubos na sangla sa buwan ng Nobyembre, Disyembre, 2020 at Enero 2021. Upang hindi maremate ang inyong mga alahas magbigay ng interest bago dumating ang araw ng subasta. “3G Pawnshop your dependable Pawnshop in Town” MC: Sept. 18, 2021

Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de OroPawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV sa Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong Setyembre 1-30, 2020 sa alas 8:00 ng umaga hanggang alas 4:00 ng hapon sa Agencia de Oro - Jose Lim Branch, corner Jose Lim Sr, and Don Roman Vilo St., Cotabato City sa Setyembre 29, 2021.

CONLUCK PAWNSHOP - SK PENDATUN CONLUCK PAWNSHOP - BONIFACIO & CONLUCK PAWNSHOP - ORC BRANCH COTABATO CITY

ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sanla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula Agosto 2020 hanggang Setyembre 2020. Ang Subasta ay sa Setyembre 30, 2021 sa ganap na ika 8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Sept. 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Sept 11 & 18 , 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late ERNESTO TIBUNGCOG, who died on October 15, 2015 in Poblacion, Libungan, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 6, Block 12, covered by TCT No. T-120869, with an area of 411 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous waiver of rights before Notary P u b l i c A l b e r t o T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 291; Page No. 59; Book No. CCXXXII; Series of 2021.

BTA wants...from P4 to the defunct ARMM at least ten years in teaching before the effectivity of this act,” as stated in the bill’s note. PNA

EXTRAJUDICIAL PARTITION

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION Notice is hereby given that the late DANILO DE GUZMAN MACARAEG, who died intestate on September 23, 2019, left properties: (Lot 5, Block 6, Sheet 2, Psd(ARMM)-99000069), (Lot 4, Block 6, Sheet 2, Psd-(ARMM)-99000069) both situated in Making, Parang, Maguindanao; Lot 1809-B-3-D, Psd11 - 0 9 4 5 5 3 ) , ( L o t 1809-B-3-F-1, Psd11 - 11 3 1 3 9 ) , ( L o t 1809-B-3-F-4, Psd11 - 11 3 1 3 9 ) , ( L o t 1809-B-3-F-3, Psd11 - 11 3 1 3 9 ) , ( L o t 1809-B-3-F-2, Psd-11113139), all situated in Panacan, Davao City; and Ground Floor Level (Unit Go1) Condominium unit in Ma-a, Davao City, covered by TCT Nos. T-34998, T-34629, 1 4 6 - 2 0 11 0 1 7 2 3 7 , 146-2012006492, 146-20120006493, 146-2012006494, 1462012006495 and 1462013001301, respectively, with the total area of 3,505 sq. mts., more or less are the subject of affidavit of adjudication by sole heir before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. 4994; Page No. 4994; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late DR. RENATO C. SARA, who died on April 29, 2008 in Davao City, left real properties, located in Midsayap, Cotabato: parcels of land Lot Nos. 6845-A, Psd-10556 with improvements of hospital and commercial buildings under Tax Declaration Nos K-021063 & K-021064, Lot 5, Pcs12-000575, Lot 2598A, Psd-63301, Lot 2-H-Psd-12-001465, covered by Certificate of Title Nos. P-44038, T-80764, T-31890, T-62950, respectively and two parcels of land under TCT Nos. T-118687 and T-118688 with the total area of 61,988 square meters, more or less; in Libungan, Cotabato: plan H-209817, SWO27783 G.L.R.O. Spc. Proc . No. 83, covered by TCT No. T-113499 and two lots covered by TCT Nos. T-36862 and T-3686 with the total area of 387,487 square meters, more or less; in Pigcawayan, Cotabato: Lot 3, Psd88751 covered by TCT No. T-29338 with an area of 76,228 square meters, more or less are the subject of extrajudicial partition of the intestate estate before Notary Public Te r e s i t a C a r r e o n Llaban as per Doc. No. 404; Page No. 81; Book No. XXXI; Series of 2011. EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

MC: Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 2021

MC: Sept. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Atty. COROCOY D. MOSON, who died intestate on January 9, 2010 in Ccotabato City, left parcels of land Lot No. 10, Block 8, Psd-62555, Lot 1, Block 8, Psd-62555 and Lot 182-B-2-J-8-3, Psd-53246 covered by TCT Nos. T-5725, T-13671 and T-7206, respectively, are the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 5091; Page No. 5091; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late MACAUNGON POLAYAGAN, who died on September 20, 1997, left one-half portion of a parcel of land Lot No. 1616, RS-12-000144, situated at Polayagan, Alamada, Cotabato, covered by OCT No. CO-2651 with an area of 65,452 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous deed of absolute sale of a portion before Notary Public Noel A. Gretare, CPA as per Doc. No. 1509; Page No. 7; Book No. LXXV; Series of 2021. MC: Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 2021

Notice is hereby given that the late ARTHUR B. UY and ELENENA V. UY, who died intestate on April 26, 2021 and November 17, 1988 in Libungan, Cotabato, respectively, left a parcel of land Lot 2758-B-9G-4-D, Psd-12-002991 situated in Poblacion, Libungan, Cotabato with an area of 458 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-65476 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Napoleon F. Sango as per Doc. No. 356; Page No. 73; Book No. 93; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late ALFREDO GARINO PASAPORTE, SR. who died on August 29, 2021 at Borongotan, Upi, Maguindanao, left a parcel of land Lot B, (LRC) Psd-283130 at Borongotan, Upi, Maguindanao, covered by TCT No. T-29367 with an area of 29,295 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Mark Esmael R. Nor, CPA as per Doc. No. 342; Page No. 69; Book No. III; Series of 2021.

MC: Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 2021

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses PACIFICO DELA CERNA a n d L U C I L A TA B A R , who died on July 4, 1986 and December 9, 2002 in Libungan, Cotabato, respectively, left a parcel of land Lot 14, Block 15, Psd-165446 situated in Poblacion, Libungan, Cotabato with an area of 298 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-43266 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 267; Page No. 54; Book No. CCXLVII; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late MELITONA P. GORNEZ, who died on December 17, 2012 at Anonang, Midsayap, Cotabato, left a parcel of land Lot No. 1038, located at Anonang, Midsayap, Cotabato, covered by OCT No. V-2000 with an area of 66,925 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with partition agreement and simultaneous deed of sale before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De CastroJagunap as per Doc. No. 4903; Page No. 4903; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021. MC: Sept. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Sept. 4, 11 & 18, 2021

MC: Sept. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

AFFIDAVIT OF SELFADJUDICATION

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

DEED OF DONATION

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late PEDRO CASTILLO DOLORES and REGINA PANGCOG DOLORES, who died intestate on June 15, 1963 and August 1, 2009, respectively, left a parcel of land Lot 1516, CSD7406, situated in Nuro, Upi, Maguindanao with an area of 1,391.97 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of extrajudicial settlement before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 4904; Page No. 4904; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late NENA C. GUERRERO, who passed away on August 14, 2015 in Cotabato City, left a parcel of property Lot 14, Pcs-11-000558, situated in Ma-a, Davao City, with an area of 227 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-389197 is the subject of affidavit of selfadjudication before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 4904; Page No. 4904; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021. MC: Sept. 4, 11 & 18, 2021

Notice is hereby given that the late MOHAMMADNOR GUIALAL KADIL, who died on February 9, 2021 in Ungap, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, left an ATM Savings Account with BPICotabato City Branch under Account No. 2169-2017-25, is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous Special Power of Attorney before Notary Public Atty. Abbyr Ahmad Nul as per Doc. No. 165; Page No. 33; Book No. XXVI; Series of 2021.

Notice is hereby given that the late PEDRO S. CAPOCAO, JR. and ROSALINDA E. CAPOCAO, who died on December 25, 2015 and June 29, 2020, respectively, left a parcel of land and its improvements in Matampay, Cotabato City with an area of 227 sq, mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-41659 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Ruben T.M. Ramirez as per Doc. No. 422; Page No. 86; Book No. 43; Series of 2020.

MC: Sept. 4, 11 & 18, 2021

Notice is hereby given that the estate of CONSEJO P. MISTRAL, a parcel of land Cadastral Lot No. Lot A, PSD- 12-004751 covered by TCT No. 15420190001251, containing an area of 662 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of deed of donation before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 674; Page No. 674; Book No. XXV; Series of 2019.

Notice is hereby given that the late VICENTE ARTIL, who died on October 7, 2019 in Poblacion, Parang, Maguindanao, left a bank account with China Bank Cotabato, bearing Account No. 2930191812, is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 5094; Page No. 5094; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

MC: Sept. 4, 11 & 18, 2021

MC: Sept. 11, 18 & 25, 2021

MC: Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 2021

September 18, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

TAPATAN SA OBLATE MEDIA

Fr. Gerry Gamaliel de los Reyes is the present Provincial Superior of the Congregation of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. The Mindanao Cross chose him to provide insights to the celebration of the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary in this region, and the challenges posed by the new BARMM government which has turned long existing Catholic Institutions into minorities in a largely Muslim area.

FR. GERRY GAMALIEL DE LOS REYES, OMI

How was the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrated in the institutions covered by the Oblate Province?

BARMM welcomes passage of HB 10121

OFFICIALS of the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM0 have welcomed the approval on third and final reading House Bill 10121 that aims to reset the 2021 parliamentary elections in BARMM and extend the transition period to 2025. During thye House of Representatives September 15 session, HB 10121 earned an overwhelming 187 ‘yes’ votes, zero ‘no’ votes, and zero ‘abstention.’ Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim said the passage of the house bill in the final reading puts the interim government in a better position to ensure the proper implementation of provisions and agreements of the peace process between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the national government. “The extension of the transition period will allow the interim Bangsamoro Government to pour in all its efforts in establishing an institution that acknowledges the circumstances of the Bangsamoro, and will provide opportunities for everyone to take part in reshaping our homeland,” Chief Minister Ebrahim said. The bill aims to amend the Section 13 Article XVI of the Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) that states that the first regular election in the region will be synchronized with 2022 national elections. Approval came immediately after President Rodrigo Duterte certified to the necessity of the immediate enactment of the said bill on Tuesday “to give the Bangsamoro transitional government

sufficient time to complete its mandate.” The resetting of the elections and extension of transition period by three years, according to President Duterte, will help in establishing “a strong bureaucracy, and enact foundational codes essential to the achievement of the inspirations of unity, genuine autonomy, and development” in the region. HB 10121 passed the second reading on Monday, with sponsorships by Maguindanao Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu, Negros Occidental Rep. Juliet Marie Ferrer, and Lanao del Sur Rep. Ansaruddin Adul Malik Adiong. House Speaker Lord Allan Jay Velasco said the passage will provide a chance for a transition period that requires the attention of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority “to strengthen BARMM’s foundations for a stronger regional government and economy.” “With the impending postponement of its elections from 2022 to 20205, we will be able to provide the BARMM a more stable foundation in establishing itself as a truly autonomous region,” House Speaker Velasco said. The Senate’s version of the bill was passed on third and final reading on September 6 with sponsorship from Senator Francis Tolentino. Both versions will be subjected to bicameral conference committee proceedings.BIO

With crimes down, NPAs yield, NoCot enjoys peace

Is it true that there are plans to open the Grotto to a larger audience for honoring the Virgin? What are these?

There are some sites dedicated by the Catholics to the Virgin which are located in the area covered by the BARMM. Will this pose a challenge to the Oblate Province for security and protection?

What support is the Oblates giving to the Office for the Migrant Settlers for BARMM headed by Susan Anayatin?

KIDAPAWAN CITY (Sept. 14) – With crime volume down and more communist rebels coming down to surrender, security officials in North Cotabato have declared the province to be outstandingly peaceful. Police and military officials declared this during the Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting here Monday afternoon. Colonel Henry Villar, North Cotabato police

provincial director, said crime volume or the number of crimes happening in the province from January to August this year was down to less than 50 percent as compared to the same period last year. Villar told North Cotabato Gov. Nancy Catamco, POC chair and presiding officer, that the crime volume in the province this year was going down except for cases of robbery and theft.

“With stricter health protocols being imposed in the province this year, we expect the crime incidents to further go down,” Villar told the council. He attributed the high number of robbery and theft cases due to the crisis brought about by the pandemic. Villar reported that 248 wanted persons have been arrested in province this year as against less than 200 last year.

THREE local terrorists linked to atrocities against local police in Datu Piang, Maguindanao late last have surrendered to police authorities in the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). On Friday, Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, police director for Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), the surrender of three members of Bagnsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Kagi Karialan faction, was a result of diplomatic efforts by the local police of Ampatuan,

Maguindanao. Lt. Gen. Jose Malayo, commander of PNP Area Police Command–Western Mindanao, received the firearms from three BIFF surrenderees. “This is one of the series of surrenders that the police have facilitated in Maguindanao,” Ugale said. “More are expected to come out soon,” he added. Since January this year, more than 20 BIFF and private armed group members have peacefully surrendered with their firearms in Maguindanao. During simple ceremonies held here,

the BIFF turned in rocket propelled grenade launchers, a homemade sniper rifle and ammunition. Ugale said the “Karialan Faction” of BIFF was the same faction that harassed Datu Piang municipal compound, the Sta. Teresita Catholic Church and the burning of a police car of Datu Piang PNP on December 3, 2020. Ugale lauded the local police and the local officials for helping PROBAR in its efforts to neutralize the terrorist organization members without bloodshed. Edwin

BIFF yield to police in Maguindanao

O. Fernandez

Ammunition smuggling attempt foiled

COTABATO CITY — The Bangsamoro police filed this week a criminal case versus a resident of Pagadian City arrested in Parang, Maguindanao for transporting 654 rounds of 7.62 caliber ammunition. Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, on Monday identified the suspect as Junel Amocay Jimenez, a resident of Barangay San Pedro, Pagadian City. Jimenez was driving a Toyota Hilux pick-up truck from Pagadian City en route to somewhere in General Santos City when personnel of the Parang municipal

police subjected to a routine inspection his vehicle and found the ammunition inside. The 7.62 caliber ammunition is either for an M14 assault rifle, or for an M60 machinegun. Members of the Parang municipal police led by Major Christopher Cabugwang and personnel of the 1402nd Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion under the PRO-BAR immediately detained Jimenez. Jimenez is now clamped down in the detention facility of the Parang municipal police, to be charged with illegal possession of ammunition, according to Ugale. John

Felix Unson