The Mindanao Cross | February 20, 2021

Vol. LXXIII| No. 3| Cotabato City | Saturday, February 20, 2021 |8 Pages | P10.00

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LGU “rescues” 36 people from alleged cult

CHURCH / P6

OMI celebrates 195th Oblate Day

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UNICEF backs possible face-to-face classes

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

IP LEADER:

CLAIMANTS FLOOD SOUTH UPI

BY BONG SARMIENTO

KORONADAL CITY - Multiple claimants involving the Moro people surfaced to claim the ancestral land of Indigenous Peoples in South Upi, Maguindanao after the Bangsamoro Region was established in 2019, a tribal leader said.

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ASH WEDNESDAY. Fr. Benjamin Ariel P. Torreto, DCC marks a cross on the forehead of masked churchgoers during the Ash Wednesday service at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish. Ash Wednesday signifies the beginning of the Lenten season. Catholics are expected to pray, fast,aaaaa and give alms for a period of 40 days, leading to the celebration of Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection during Holy Week and Easter. Fr. Torreto reminds the faithful to observe the act of charity. “Charity is not just about giving. It’s also about charity of time, of Photo courtesy ofP. PAMO-SBPS heart, of sacrice,” he said.

VALERIE ANN LAMBO OBLATE TV, an OMI YouTube channel launched on September 21, 2020, is making its way on social media platforms.

The Early OMI P4 IP Ministries PART 2

Hijabophobia

did you know?

By Fr. Eliseo Mercado, OMI

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The day before Ash Wednesday is called Shrove Tuesday. It is observed through participating in confession and absolution and the ritual burning of the previous year’s Holy Week palms.

Lent is the period of 40 days before Easter in the Christian calendar.

Sundays are not included in the count.

It falls on a different date each year because it is dependent on the date of Easter Sunday.

OMI Philippines

Oblate TV highlights BARMM lags behind ‘Kabataan, Tawag ka!’ education system

BY FR. ROCK SANIEL, OMI

THE Oblate TV, an OMI Youtube channel which was launched on September 21, 2020 has created a sensation in the social media arena. From a single video, now it has reached almost 200 different videos showcasing the different mission, ministries and apostolates of the OMI all over the world with almost 3,000 subscribers in Youtube.

The Oblate TV was initiated by the OMI Vocation Team Philippines as a tool and as a new way in reaching out to the people especially to the young who have the desire to live the OMI religious life. The main objective of the Oblate TV Youtube channel is to introduce the different mission and ministries of the OMI in the Philippines.

This includes stories of OMI priests and brothers, daily reflections, prayers, masses and OMI apostolates especially during this time of pandemic. Likewise, it is a way of promoting OMI vocation among the young people all over the country and across the world.

Early January this year, the OMI Philippines youth and vocation ministry joined together and initiated a special activity for the OMI youth from different parishes all over the country. The activity highlights the original song composition of Fr. Jimmy del Rosario, OMI, entitled “Kabataan, Tawag Ka” sung by Fr. Eduardo “Pon-Pon” Vasquez, OMI and Ms. Maria Laroca, top 6 in The X factor UK in 2018 and arranged by Mr. Gerry De Leon, an award-winning composer.

The “Kabataan, Tawag Ka,” is one of the many compositions of Fr. Del Rosario inviting young people to listen and respond to their vocation as called by the Lord to preach the Good News and

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BAKWITS FLEEING. Displaced families from Barangay Itaw, South Upi in Maguindanao flees to safer grounds to avoid getting caught in a crossfire.

FERDINANDH B. CABRERA

NPAs gone in 13 NCot barangays

Farmers, officials laud DAR for FMR

BY NASH B. MAULANA

BY JOHN FELIX UNSON

BY EDWIN O. FERNANDEZ

THE BANGSAMORO Government lags in efforts at developing its own education system, largely due to broad realignment of government priorities in implementing programs during the emergence of the pandemic.

Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) said the region's services, projects, and interventions for the education sector have generally lagged behind schedules, since the unprecedented emergence of the Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) in the country in February 2020.

“Admittedly, the pandemic has slowed down our operations and crusade for long-term reforms since I took my oath as your Education Minister in 2019,” Iqbal said during the third of a series Thursday of the “Online Kapihan: Accountable child-based reporting in the new normal,” which is supported in BARMM by the UN International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

Iqbal said the suspension of face-toface interaction has stilled for massive adjustments on the education sector's implementation of the Education Continuity Plan (ECP) for SY 2020-2021 “to provide services for learners amid challenging situations.”

But Iqbal said in more ways, the BARMM’s Ministry of Basic Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) has pushed through with programs by utilizing “innovative and contextbased, as well as inclusive policies or mechanisms across all four education subsectors on various areas to strengthen the Bangsamoro

AUTHORITIES have declared 13 interior barangays in North Cotabato province liberated from occupation by the New People’s Army through inter-agency humanitarian and security interventions.

Gov. Nancy Catamco said Thursday the feat was confirmed by officials from the Police Regional Office-12 and the Army’s 10th Infantry Division during an online conference Wednesday.

The joint area clearing and validation board meeting, where other security issues besetting North Cotabato were also discussed, was facilitated jointly

by Catamco, who is chairperson of the provincial peace and order council, and key regional police and military officials.

Catamco said residents of Bituan, Banayal, Nabundasan, Tuburan, Magbok and Daig in Tulunan, and in Santa Felomina, Santo Niño, Luayon, Malasila, Cabilao, Malungon and Malabuan, all in Makilala, will no longer be trapped in any crossfire between NPAs and pursuing state security forces.

“We ought to thank all sectors who helped us achieve this,” Catamco said.

There were recurring troubles in the 13 barangays in North Cotabato’s Makilala and Tulunan towns until sustained diplomatic interventions by the office of Catamco, the 10th ID and PRO12 gained headway in recent months, causing the decline of NPA forces in both towns.

The multi-sector, inter-agency peacebuilding programs in the North Cotabato barangays once occupied by NPAs were part of the End Local Communist Armed Conflict, or ELCAC initiative of Malacañang.

FARMERS and local officials of an upland farming communities in Sultan Kudarat have lauded the government for providing them farm to market road through the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

About 5,000 residents, almost 2,000 of whom were agrarian reform beneficiaries, stand to benefit from the P37-million concrete FMR project that connects Barangay Bugso and Gapok in Sen. Ninoy Aquino (SNA), Sultan Kudarat.

Elated by the assistance from DAR, SNA Mayor Randy L. Ecija, Jr said that the project is not just for the local government, but for the entirety of the residents and farmers in the area who are mostly rice and corn farmers.

Both Mayor Ecija and Barangay Gapok chair Arnel Rollugui lauded the DAR-Mindanao Sustainable Agrarian and Agriculture Development (MinSAAD), the Department of Public Works and Highways and DAR-Sultan Kudarat for being instrumental in the development and prosperity of their communities and promised to maintain the project.

Rollugui said farmers and residents are now assured of ease of travel and fast transport of their agricultural produce with the completion of 7.48 kilometer road network.

“Transport of our goods to the market is now easy and less expensive,” Rollugui said.

The project was officially turned over to the local government early this week.

“Farmers coming from both Gapok and Bugso now have an opportunity to improve their livelihood because they can now go to market centers located in both barangays to bring their produce and demand a fair price for their produce,” Rodolfo

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February 20, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

36 people ‘rescued’ from alleged cult

THIRTY-SIX alleged cult members who have been staying in the forest for a year have been rescued by the local government of Arakan, North Cotabato, officials said.

Some residents of Arakan told Mayor Rene Rubino that about 50 people have been living deep into the forest in Barangay Libertad and three have already died.

Locals said they belonged to a cult whose leaders have been telling the members they will be saved by the grandson of Leonardo Capillan, a 61-year-old farmer who convinced his followers to stay with him in the jungles.

Capillan has died on Jan. 31, his son Bernardo, 32, also died the next day.

On February 1, a certain Ailyn Magali, 18 has died.

Mayor Rubino

personally led the town’s health frontliners to rescue the villagers and to retrieve the remains of three fatalities who reportedly died due to hunger.

Rubino managed to convince 36 residents and are now being attended to by the local government of Arakan through the town social welfare and health offices.

But health workers failed to retrieve the body because these were already in advance state of decomposition.

Residents of Barangay Libertad told Mayor Rubino that the group went to the forest last year

to avoid getting the novel coronavirus.

A relative of one of the fatalities discovered the area where the alleged cult followers have been staying while he was to retrieve the remains.

Tribal leaders helped Mayor Rubino convinced the 31 to come down. Few more people are still in the mountains, ignoring calls for them to come down to the town center.

But Rubino was not losing hope.

He ordered the social welfare office to provide psychosocial intervention and the town health station to conduct medical examination to determine

their health status.

Whether the group belonged to a cult or not, Mayor Rubino is uncertain.

But Barangay Libertad Chairman Jimmy Bacag vehemently denied a cult exists in his village.

“Those are allegations, the three fatalities have died due to sickness, there was no truth that a cult exists in his village,” Bacag told DXND Radyo Bida in Kidapawan City.

Mayor Rubino and the tribal leaders continue to convince the villagers to come to the town center for medication and for other assistance from the government. Edwin O.

Fernandez

More time needed in MILF decommissioning

THE 25-month Bangsamoro government needs three more years to reintroduce thousands of hardcore Moro guerillas into mainstream society, a senior regional official said.

Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) local government minister, announced over the popular DXMS Radyo Bida that their bid for an extension of the ARMM-toBARMM transition for three more

years is for them to have enough time to deactivate MILF fighters and usher them back to the local communities.

The creation of BARMM that replaced in February 2019 the 29year Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is a product of 22 years of peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Residents of BARMM, whose appointed chief minister, Ahod Balawag Ebrahim, is MILF’s chair,

are supposed to elect the first set of regional officials May next year.

“The extension we desire is not about a hold to power, but to have enough time to deactivate thousands of MILF members who need socioeconomic, psycho-social and other support to enable them to start life all over again," Sinarimbo said.

Various groups and a number of peace advocates, among them Mindanao’s top Catholic church leader, Cardinal Orlando

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IPs want NPAs out of tribal domain

THE MILITARY on Wednesday urged peace advocacy groups to listen to wishes of indigenous communities for the New People’s Army to leave their ancestral domains where rebels rule with impunity.

Major Gen. Juvymax Uy of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division said Wednesday the 6th ID is thankful to local government units in central Mindanao that have lately been active in helping drumbeat the sentiments of IP constituents ranting on the presence of NPAs in their villages.

Uy cited as example the feats of the provincial government of North Cotabato in initiating ecurity interventions essential to maintaining law and order in IPdominated hinterlands in the province.

The governor of North Cotabato, Nancy Catamco, a member of the UboManobo community, has teams in her office focused on diplomatic initiatives meant to address security issues besetting local IP communities.

Hundreds of DulanganManobo people held last Saturday an indignation rally in Esperanza town in Sultan Kudarat province to denounce the activities of NPAs in their ancestral lands.

They ranted about the

collection of revolutionary taxes by NPAs and the interference by rebels on the operation of dulyconstituted barangay governments in their tribal communities supposedly protected by the Indigenous People’s Rights Act, also known as Republic Act 8371.

The Republic Act 8371 assures IP communities of rights to self-determination and privilege to govern dulyrecognized tribal abodes based on their cultures and traditions.

Police and military records from between 2010 to 2020 indicated that, in central Mindanao alone, 19 IPs vocal about the atrocities by NPAs have been killed while four others went missing during the period.

Uy said peace advocacy groups can help ventilate the sentiments of affected IPs. Tribal groups in provinces covered by 6th ID have burned NPA flags in one gathering after another in the past three years to manifest objection to the presence of communist rebels in their highland enclaves.

Uy said NPAs in central Mindanao have a reputation for venting ire on IPs for losses in clashes with pursuing state security forces. John Felix Unson

Vandals attack 2 Catholic chapels in Basilan THE BANGSAMORO government condemned Thursday the desecration of Catholic chapels in two barangays in Lamitan City in Basilan on the eve of Ash Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez, police director for the Bangsamoro region, said Thursday he has directed the Lamitan City police and the Basilan provincial police to conduct a joint inquiry on what seemed related incidents.

Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, local government minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said the BARMM leadership was saddened by the attacks on the chapels in Barangays Santa Clara and Maganda in Lamitan City.

“This shall be investigated extensively,” Sinarimbo said Thursday.

Personnel of the Lamitan City police are still clueless on who could have vandalized the two worship sites and the real motive for the attack.

Unidentified men reportedly used sledged hammers in

destroying religious icons inside the chapels.

Basilan Gov. Jim Salliman, chairperson of the provincial peace and order council, said he will flex his authority and influence to identify the culprits.

“I stand by my Christian constituents in their search for a closure on this incident,” Salliman said.

Salliman said his administration has enlisted the help of Muslim and Christian community elders in identifying the vandals who desecrated the two Catholic chapels.

“The Muslim and Christian communities in Basilan shall address this together as a community,” Salliman said.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr. of the military’s Western Mindanao Command said he has directed Army’s 101st Infantry Brigade in Basilan to help the local police investigate on the incident.

“Military intelligence agents shall help the police determine the identities of the people behind it,” Vinluan VANDALIZED. There are no clues yet on the attacks on Catholic chapels in Basilan. said. John Felix Unson Photo courtesy of DXNO Isabela City

Oblate TV promotes “Kabataan...from P1

to serve the poor.

The “Kabataan, Tawag Ka” became a sensation to many young people and to the congregation as it took its first appearance last January 2021. The activity was in the form of a contest. There were two contests for the said activity: the interpretative dance and the duet singing contest. Both contests were participated by the youth groups from different OMI parishes and ministries, namely: the IP ministry in Timanan, Maguindanao, Masiag parish in Sultan Kudarat, Gapok parish in Sultan Kudarat, Notre Dame Center for Catechesis, Cotabato (NDCFC), Midsayap parish in Cotabato, Aleosan parish in Cotabato, Pikit parish in Cotabato, Ajuy parish in Iloilo, Our Lady of Grace parish in Caloocan City, Broce parish in Maguindanao, Jolo Cathedral in Jolo, Sulu and Siasi parish in Tawi-tawi.

Fr. Denz Basada, OMI, Oblate vocation director for Luzon and Visayas, author of the contests was amazed by the participation and enthusiasm of the OMI youth Philippines. With

their own resources and skills, the youth have shown their uniqueness, unity and creativity. For less than a month of preparation, the youth have created awe-inspiring videos and presentations that inspired and captured the hearts of many people.

“I was really struck and teary-eyed when I saw the first video that was submitted from one of our youth groups. I never thought that it would be this beautiful when I saw the youth ministry so alive and inspired even amidst the pandemic. For me, it was a good realization of how social media can create a positive and effective medium for the youth and vocation ministry,” Fr. Basada said.

Last Thursday, February 18, 2021, at 3’oclock in the afternoon, the winners for both categories were announced through the Oblate TV Youtube channel. Part of the announcement of the winners were some words of gratitude by the OMI vocation and youth ministry to the youth for making the activity successful.

Moreover, it was also a time

to thank the different OMI Priests, OMI Provincial Administration Team led

by Fr. Gerry Delos Reyes, OMI, and OMI friends for their support and generosity in the success of the activity.

The winners for the Duet Singing contest were the following: 5th placer (NDCFC), 4th placer (Pikit parish Entry #2), 3rd placer (Midsayap parish), 2nd placer (Aleosan parish) and 1st placer (Pikit parish Entry #3).

The winners for the I nt erp reta t iv e Da nce contest were the following: 5th placer (Gapok parish), 4th placer (Ajuy parish, Iloilo Entry #3), 3rd placer (Masiag parish), 2nd placer (Pikit parish) and 1st placer (Jolo cathedral, Sulu).

Special award was also given to Gapok parish youth ministry in Sultan Kudarat as it registered 17,000 video views in just a week.

Cash prizes were given to the winners of the contests. Consolation prizes were also given to those who did not make it to the final round as gratitude for their participation.

The judges for the duet singing competition were the following: Ms. Mary

Jane Bruno Valenzuela, Teacher and professional singer, Fr. Rey Amancio, OMI, OMI Foreign Missionary, Bro. Bonn Barretto, CSSR, recording artist and seminarian and Mr. Gerry De Leon, awardwinning composer.

The judges for the interpretative dance composition were the following: Ms. Jastine Rose C. Pagsanghan, teacher and professional dancer, Mr. Wilmar Operario, teacher and choreographer, Mr. John Alberto Morales, art director and choreographer and Mr. Reggie Pascual, teacher and choreographer.

With the success of the activity, the OMI youth and vocation ministry is confident that there is opportunity in reaching the youth through social media. It is their aspiration that the activity is simply the beginning to a more interactive and inspiring programs among the youth not only in the country but across the globe where OMIs are present.

Please follow, like and subscribe to Oblate TV channel in Youtube to support the OMI mission and ministries.

Killers of Malabang market administrator known THE CRIMINAL Investigation and Detection Group is done with its probe on the fatal ambush almost two weeks ago of the market administrator of Malabang.

In a statement Wednesday, the CIDGBangsamoro Autonomous Region said witnesses have signed statements identifying the killers of Malawani.

CIDG-BAR officials said witnesses have identified the culprits and have promised to help put them behind bars.

The CIDG-BAR, however, declined to reveal their identities pending the filing of charges against them at the Lanao del Sur Provincial Prosecutor's Office in Marawi City.

The fatality, Rauf Malawani, was a maternal uncle of the first-termer Malabang Mayor Tomas Macapodi.

Relatives of Malawani are convinced he was murdered to drag them into a “rido,” which means clan war in the Maranao language, to derail their

mayor’s bid for a second term during the 2022 local elections.

The neophyte Mayor Macapodi, is now popular for his having introduced reforms in local governance, now gaining results never before seen by residents of Malabang.

Senior members of Malabang’s peace and order council and the local disaster risk reduction and management council told reporters they are thankful to the CIDG-BAR for responding promptly to their request for intervention.

Malawani was attacked by gunmen on board three pick-up trucks while driving his car en route to the town proper of Malabang from Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur. Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez, regional director for the Bangsamoro police, said he has directed the Malabang municipal police to support the CIDG-BAR’s effort to put closure to the murder of Malawani. John

Felix Unson

February 20, 2021

Army guarding against Maute attacks ...from P8 terrorists traded shots in a series of running gunfights that lasted for six hours Sunday, according to key members of the Madamba municipal peace and order council and the Lanao del Sur provincial police.

Barangay officials and sources from the local police said three terrorists - Samier Akaraman, Pendar Alongan and Amerodin Lanting --were killed in the ensuing clash.

Local officials said their cadavers were carried away by their companions from EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late AMAD MOHAMAD, who died intestate on September 18, 2017 at Biosong, Picong, Lanao del Sur, a parcel of land Lot 284; Pls-767-D, situated at Subuan, Sultan Gumandar (now Biosong, Picong), Lanao del Sur, with an area of 9,628 sq. mts., more or less, covered

by OCT No. PAF-3380, is the subject of Extrajudicial Settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Asmira S. Diego, as per Doc. No. 312; Page No. 63; Book No. IV; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6 , 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late KAGUI KASAN AKMAD, who died intestate on May 14, 2020 at Kapinpilan, Midsayap, Cotabato, a parcel of land Lot 674, Pls-134, located at Bo. Bulanan, Midsayap, Cotabato, covered by Original Certificate of Title No. V-12462, with an area of 66,368 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of extrajudicial partition of estate before Notary Public Atty. Mohammad Jameel A. Singh as per Doc. No. 364; Page No. 73; Book No. 06; Series of 2021.

the scene after the Army’s 1st Field Artillery Battalion started to pound their position with 105 Howitzer cannons fired from a nearby base.

Major Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of the Army-led anti-terror Task Force Zampelan, said they have received reports from villagers about the death of three Maute gunmen but could not confirm without actual body count.

Notice is hereby given that the late ARCADIO G. RAYRAY and EMILIA Q. RAYRAY, who died intestate on February 17,2000 and November 06, 2017 at Midsayap, Cotabato, respectively, left a parcel of land covered

by OCT No. 59880, Lot No. FPA XII-12-1321, situated in Midsayap, Cotabato with an area of 106 sqare meters more or less is the subject of Affidavit of ajudication with simultaneous deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Roland D. Jungco as per Doc. No. 180; Page No. 36; Book No. 83; Series of 2020.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late RAMON J. NAVARRA, SR., who died intestate on December 3, 2020 at Cotabato City, a parcel of land Lot 2 Block 3, Pcs-12-000444, situated at Malagapas, Cotabato City, with an area of 180 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-36706 with improvements and Bank Deposit at BPI Cotabato Branch, under Account No. 2164-0179-26, are subject of Extrajudicial Settlement of estate with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Atty. Eugenio U. Soyao, as per Doc. No. 53; Page No. 11; Book No. 50; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6 , 2021

Notice is hereby given that the late ROSALINDA M. DILLERA, who died on November 7, 2020 at Brgy.

Midpapan I, Pigcawayan, Cotabato, left SSS Pension under Account No. 334-333404585-5 at MetrobankMidsayap Branch, Midsayap Cotabato is the subject of Affidavit of Self-Adjudication before Notary Public Renie Jay Abad Soriano as per Doc. No. 3; Page No. 1; Book No. XI; Series of 2021.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late Romeo B. Catulong who died intestate on June 30, 2020 at Davao City left a Savings Account at METROBANK under Account No. 3337264086 is the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate, before Notary Public A t t y. A g n e s R . d e Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 1680; Page No. 1680; Book No. XXVI; Series of 2021 MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION Notice is hereby given that the late ELIODORA GORERO, who died intestate on February 25,2008 at Lower Katingawan Midsayap, Cotabato, left a parcel of land covered

by TCT No. T-116923, Lot 3883-G-1-B, Psd-12-052430 situated in Bo. Katingawan, Midsayap, Cotabato with an area of 3,050 sq. mts. more or less is the subject of Affidavit of ajudication with simultaneous deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Atty. Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 414; Page No. 83; Book No. CXXXIII; Series of 2019.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Republic of the Philippines Midsayap, Cotabato Local Civil Registry Office

In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular Guidelines in implementation of Administrative order No. 1, series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that, IMAN TAPOL MUSTAPHA, has filed with this office, a petition for Correction of sex from male to female in her Certificate of Live birth bearing registry No. 20060948 which registered at the Local Civil Registrar office of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and whose parents are YACOB P. MUSTAPHA and JAMILA L. TAPOL Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than March 1, 2021.

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with the publication requirments and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1, Guidelines in the Implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that JONALD NOBLE SOBERANO has filed with this Office a petition for change of sex from "MALE" to "FEMALE" in the Certificate of Live Birth of NICOLE MIGULLAS SOBERANO who was born on October 27, 2017 at Midsayap, Cotabato and whose parents are Jonald N. Soberano and Michelle B. Migullas.

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

(Sgd) LESAIDA O. SABAN

(Sgd) NORAH B. CABUGWASON Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Feb. 20 & 27. 2021

Unson

AFFIDAVIT OF SELF ADJUDICATION

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

Municipal Civil Registrar

Vinluan said Army checkpoints in different Lanao del Sur towns have strictly been inspecting vehicles passing through for wounded Maute terrorists fleeing from the province.

He said soldiers have also been trying to avert possible transport of firearms and weapons around the province by remnants of the Maute terror group. John Felix

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6, 2021

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION

3

THE MINDANAO CROSS

MC: Feb. 13 & 20, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late PAZ A. FUERTE who died intestate on August 18, 1991 at Midsayap, Cotabato, left parcels of land Lot 2485-F-2-D, Psd 12-000588, Lot 2485-F-3-B-1, Psd 12000942, Lot 2485-F-2-A, Psd 12-000588, Lot 2485-F-3-A, Psd-176104.

Lot 2586-G-2-G-1, Psd12-014878 all situated at Midsayap, Cotabato with the total area of 2,463 sq. mts., more or less covered

by TCT Nos. 65908, 56863, 55924, 40411 & 79589, respectively, with a total area of 2,463 more or less are the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights, before Notary Public Atty. Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 212; Page No. 43; Book No. CCV; Series of 2020.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the l a t e M E LV I N P U TO Y MAMUGAY., who died on March 29, 2018 at Davao City, parcels of land, situated at Brgy.

Sinkatulan, Makilala, Cotabato, containing an area of 33,828 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. CT- 2037 and Lot 4, containing 2 storey building with ARP No. M-21539, Property Index No. 060-07-032-08-001, are subject of Extrajudicial Settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Vilmalen M. Temblor, RCHEM, MCHEM as per Doc. No. 157; Page No. 32; Book No. II; Series of 2019.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late ANTONIO DOTON who died intestate on Feb 17, 2020 at Cotabato City, left a parcel of land covered by TCT No. T-28490, Lot 4033-C15, Psd-108815 and TCT No. T-28483, Lot 4033-C-8,Psd-108815 with a total area of 885 sq. mts. more or less are the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Atty. Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 126; Page No. 26; Book No. CXCIV; Series of 2020

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6 , 2021

SULTAN PAWNSHOP

Ang Sultan Pawnshop ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong July 2020. Ang subasta ay sa March 1, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng mga umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Feb. 20 & 27, 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 July 2020 will be auctioned on March 1, 2021 at 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Please come before March 1, 2021 for renewal or redemption.

Patalastas ng Subasta Lahat ng sangla noong Hulyo 2020 ay ipagbibili ng Subasta sa Marso 1, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:30 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon. Kung maari ay pumunta bago ang Marso 1, 2021 para sa pagbayad ng tubo o pagtubos.

MC: Feb. 20 & 27, 2021

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ONDI B. MAMALIMPING who died on July 27, 2019 in Cotabato City, a parcel of land situated at Bagua II, Cotabato City, with an area of 1,745 sq. mts, more or less, covered by TCT No. T- 43124 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. de Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 1006; Page No. 1006; Book No. XXVI; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla.

Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula pa noong Enero hanggang Pebrero 2020. Ang Subasta ay sa Pebrero 27, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika-4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Feb. 13 & 20 2021

A & A Pawnshop Don Rufino Branch Cotabato City

Ang A & A Pawnshop ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula Enero 2020 hanggang Pebrero 2020. Ang subasta ay sa Pebrero 28, 2021 sa ganap na ika-8:00 ng mga umaga hanggang ika-4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Feb. 13 & 20 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 February 1-29, 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 February 24, 2021.

Patalastas ng Subasta Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Main, Agencia de OroPawnshop Inc. Roman Vilo Branch, SK Pendatun Branch, Mabini Branch, ORC Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Branch I, II, III, IV sa Parang Branch, Carmen Branch, Pikit 1 and Pikit 2 Branch, Agencia de Oro Pawnshop Inc. Dalican 1, Dalican 2, Shariff Aguak Branch of Cotabato City, Parang North Cotabato, Datu Odin Sinsuat and Shariff Aguak ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong Pebrero 1-29, 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 Pebrero 24, 2021.

MC: Feb. 13 & 20. 2021

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

corner Bonifacio and Don Rufino Alonzo Sts., Cotabato City

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

CONLUCK PAWNSHOP MAIN, DON RUFINO ALONZO BRANCH & QUEZON AVENUE BRANCH, COTABATO CITY

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late FEDERICO MILES MADRONES who died intestate on July 16, 2020 at Sinawingan, Libungan, Cotabato left half of Savings Account with BDO Network Bank, Libungan Branch, Libungan, Cotabato bearing Account Number 040350003793 is the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights, before Notary Public Atty. Noel A. Gretare,CPA as per Doc. No. 609; Page No. 37; Book No. LXXIII; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses FAUSTO F. GUIANG and LIBRADA PRINCESA GUIANG, who died intestate on March 20, 1997 and May 5, 2005 at Pob. 1, Midsayap, Cotabato,respectevly left a parcel of land covered

by TCT No. T-34826, Lot 24-B, Psd-157448 with an area of 234.50 sq. mts. more or less is the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate with Simultaneous deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Atty.

Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 149; Page No. 30; Book No. CXXIX; Series of 2019.

Notice is hereby given that the late FELISA MANOS TRUMATA, who died intestate on December 8,1999 at Pob. 5, Midsayap, Cotabato left a parcel of land covered by TCT No. T-62894, Lot 2465-G-5-B, Psd-12-003522 situated in Bo. Poblacion, Midsayap, Cotabato with an area of 522 sq. mts. more or less is the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Atty. Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 199; Page No. 40; Book No. III; Series of 2016.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANANIAS CAHUCOM and MARIA CAMBALO who died intestate on January 28, 1998 and March 1, 1993 at Cawilihan, Aleosan, Cotabato, respectively, a parcel of land covered

by TCT No. T-58215, Lot No.936, Pls-464 situated at Cawilihan, Aleosan,Cotabato with an area of 70,582 sq. mts. more or less is the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of real estate with simultaneous waiver of rights and deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Atty. Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 427; Page No. 86; Book No. XII; Series of 2016.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses FILOMENO BINGIL and MAXIMA MATOS BINGIL, who died intestate on May 18, 1997 and March 7, 1987 at Batiocan, Lib., Cotabato and, Cotabato City, respectively, left parcels of land covered

by TCT No. T-70774, Lot 2485-C-1-A-3, Psd-12-077831 and TCT No. T-70776,Lot 2485-C-1-A-5,Psd-12-077831 situated in Bo. Poblacion, Midsayap, Cotabato with a total are of 1,077 sq. mts. more or less are the subject of Extrajudicial settlement estate with simultaneous deed of absolute sale, before Notary Public Atty. Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 496; Page No. 100; Book No. XXVI; Series of 2016.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

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February 20, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

OMI celebrates 195th Oblate Day

The Early OMI IP Ministries (part 2)

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195TH OBLATE DAY. Retired Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, OMI together with some OMI priests and novices led the celebration of 195th anniversary of Papal Approbation of the congregation.

OMI Philippines

COTABATO CITY – The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) all over the world celebrates, on Wednesday, February 17, its 195th anniversary of Papal Approbation of the congregation or Oblate Day. The celebration, which took place the same day as the beginning of Lent season or Ash Wednesday, was made simple amid an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

A simple mass was held in Notre Dame of Midsayap College while the Notre Dame University commemorated the event on February 16 through a eucharistic celebration presided by Retired Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, OMI. In his homily, the Cardinal mentioned the three qualities of an Oblate priest – daring, simple and special love for the poor.

OMI priests, the Cardinal said, are known for their daring missions in Mindanao. “Although they have the choice to choose a simple and easy mission, but the OMI chose the most challenging if not the most impossible assignments without any regrets,” he added.

The congregation has been in difficult missions in Mindanao since 1939. They are into various ministries, including education, parishes, interreligious dialogues, indigenous people, media, livelihood assistance and services to poor communities.

“The OMIs, will all their capacity

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in terms of acquiring properties and material things, choose to be simple.

They can buy the most expensive cars but they choose not to. It’s their simplicity that inspires many people to live their kind of life,” Quevedo said.

Known to have a special love for the poor, Oblate priests are guided by their motto: “To preach the gospel to the poor”.

“They are missionaries for the poor.

They go where the poor is. They live with them and often smell like them,” Quevedo said.

According to the Cardinal, the OMI IP ministries among the Tedurays, Manobo in the mountains of Sultan Kudarat and maguindanao, the Bajaos and Sama in the Islands of Sulu and Tawi-tawi. are “Oblates who risk their lives to be with the poor, the God's poor.”

The congregation was founded on January 25, 1816 by Saint Eugene de Mazenod, a French bishop, born to an aristocratic family in Aix-en-Provence.

On February 17, 1826, Pope Leo XII approved its Constitution and Rules.

The pope officially validated the work of St. Eugene and his Missionaries of Provence and officially approved the order known today as the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate.Valerie

Ann P. Lambo

rom the very beginning of the OMI Missions in Cotabato, there were two loci that presented as major challenge. The first was the “uplands” of Upi inhabited by the Teduray and the second was the “uplands” of Kidapawan and Magpet known then as the ancestral domain of the Manobos. The pioneering Oblates were overwhelm by the ever increasing pastoral demands of “settlers” as new towns, new parishes and news schools “mushroomed” in the once Empire Province of Cotabato.

There were fleeting thoughts of doing mission to the “natives”, particularly the Tedurays of Upi, Manobos of Kidapawan and Magpet, and the B’laans and Tibolis of South Cotabato. But they remained fleeting interests, except for the few “rugged” OMI Missionaries that braved the mountains both by hiking and on horseback. Famous names were Fr. Clement McCarthy who regularly visited the mountain Missions in Arakan, Magpet and Kidapawan; Fr. Rafael Decoker who opened Mission stations in the highlands and valleys around the Daguma Ranges for the settlers, loggers and natives; and Fr. Peter Moriarty that tried to go and evangelize the B’laans around the Koronadal hills and valleys. These early contacts with the Indigenous Peoples consisted mainly of catechism and their subsequent baptism.

The serious work among

e are now in the of the present times is the liturgical season loss of the sense of sin. of Lent, the 40 Some people can no longer days of remembering and distinguish between right celebrating the redemptive and wrong, worse still, passion and death of the what is wrong becomes Lord Jesus. We opened this right and what is right season last Ash Wednesday become wrong. The Ten Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC with the imposition of commandments given by tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com ashes on our heads which is God to Moses is a good a biblical sign of penitence. guide for an examination Due to COVID-19 “no touch” protocols the church of conscience. It is also a good guide to look at the has revived the ancient practice of sprinkling ashes Seven Capital Sins, the seven gateways by which on our heads rather than making the sign of the cross the devil gains access to our souls. These are anger, on our foreheads. Both practices are acceptable. pride, envy, greed, gluttony, lust, and laziness. Each Just as there are basics in education expressed of us has our own weakness and the Tempter exploits in the three R’s of ‘riting, reading and ‘rithmetic, so it. there are basic attitudes for a meaningful celebration The second R pertains to renewal. It is a of Lent. The three R’s of Lent are Repent, Renew, turning away from sin and turning towards God. St. and Reconcile. Without these three R’s our Lenten Thomas defines sin as “aversio a Deo et conversio ad observances would remain as mere rituals. All creaturam” a turning away from God and turning our readings this Sunday point out to a need for towards creatures. The self and everything else repentance, renewal, and reconciliation. In the first becomes more important than God. Renewal is a call reading, after the great flood during Noah’s time, God to conversion, a turning back to God. It is to make made a covenant with Noah that never again shall God and everything godly as the priority of our life.

He destroy the whole earth with a flood (Gen. 9:8ff). It is to follow in the footsteps of Jesus whose food is As a sign of his promise, he put up the rainbow in to do the will of the Father. It is to cling to the vine the heavens. God renewed the earth with a flood and so that we may bear fruit and not wither (Jn. 15:5). reconciled Himself with sinful humanity.

The third R is reconciliation. To be reconciled The letter of Peter in the second reading reminded is to restore the broken relationship. It is to bring the community about the great flood during Noah’s back the harmony that was lost. God is the first to time. Peter likened the waters of the flood to the reconcile us to Himself by sending us His Son Jesus. waters of baptism. We were washed clean by baptism It is through God’s initiative that we are reconciled and redeemed by Christ who reconciled us with the to Him. If that is so, then we are called to respond to Father, “Beloved, Christ suffered for sins once, the God’s grace, an invitation to reconciliation with Him. righteous for the unrighteous that He might lead We are then called to repair broken relationships with you to God” (Pt. 3:18). The holy gospel contains the our fellow human beings, especially the poor and first proclamation of Jesus which calls for a change of neglected. Not only that, we are called to repair our heart, “Repent and believe in the gospel” (Mk. 1:15). broken relationship with the earth that has suffered The first of the R’s is repentance. Repentance so much due to human abuse. is an acknowledgement of our sinfulness before the Let this season of lent be an opportunity Lord. We then feel sorry for our sins and ask the to turn back to God and to restore our broken Lord who is full of mercy to forgive us. The tragedy relationships. MC

The 3 R’s of Lent

REFLECTIONS

By Fr. Jun Mercado, OMI the IPs was done in Upi with Bro. Mauricio Zuyco and Fr. Jose Galit in 60’s and 70’s by establishing elementary schools. Notre Dame of Kabog Kabog was first established; then followed by Notre Dame of Blala; then Notre Dame of Tebuan and last was Notre Dame of Mandalay.

The education of the Tedurays was a paramount consideration for their empowerment. The school work was accompanied by “social action ministry that consisted in work animals – dispersal programs. These schools were subsequently turned over the Department of Education. Bro, Zuyco replicated this education of the IP’s when he was transferred to the Mountains of Kulaman.

In similar vein, though different from school work, Fr. Richard Weixelman and two lay mission partners decided to spend full time work among the IP’s. They actually lived with them in the mountains of Magpet in the 70’s. It was a special ministry of presence and service specifically in health and literacy work to the IP communities. It was the first attempt of actually living with the IP’s and inserting themselves into the life and work of the Manobos of Tiko. When their presence was no longer tenable in the mountain, they stayed in Magpet proper and visited the IP stations.

Work among the IP’s in the mountains, during Mar tial Law, became highly contested. On the one hand, the Government

through PANAMIN and their recognized NGO’s sought to insulate the IP’s from left ideology and on the other hand, the NPA began to penetrate the mountains and recruit the IP’s to join the struggle.

The contested discourse, contesting “ideology” and differing perspectives visà-vis IP ministry became actual “battlegrounds” between pro-government and anti-government forces.

The Church Missions and workers were also caught in the fray.

In the midst of conflicting views and ideology, what remains clear is the fact that the Indigenous Peoples of the mountains, whether they are pro-government or anti-government, are poor and have become actual “squatters” in their ancestral domain. The IP conditions and situations have remained the same.

Notwithstanding IPRA (the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act), the IP’s are denied their rights already enshrined in the Law of the Republic.

Their rights to Free Prior and Informed Consent as specified by Law need to be strictly observed else their dwindling ancestral domain will soon be gone! And every LGU with IP population should give a modicum of self-deter mination to the IP’s in their local affairs and they should be given a representation in governance as per order of the Department of Interior and Local Government ( I n d i g e n o u s Pe o p l e s Mandated Representatives in the Local Councils).

B adaliyya Fr. Jun Mercado, OMI

Short Reflection for the 1st Sunday of Lent (B) Readings:

Genesis 9: 8-15; 1 Peter 3: 18-22; Mark 1: 12-15

Selected Passage:

“This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” (Mk.1: 15)

Meditation:

Lent is a special season that invites the faithful to be more attentive to the “disclosure” of the kingdom of God as they journey through life. The Lenten call is to REPENT and BELIEVE in the Gospel.

DHIKR SIMPLE METHOD Dhikr is an Arabic word for remembrance. In the “tariqa” (the way) movement, dhikr developed into a form of prayer… It is a prayer of the heart… following three simple steps: 1.Write in one’s heart a certain passage of the Holy Writ…

2. Make the same passage ever present in one’s lips.

3. Then wait for God’s disclosure on the meaning of the passage…that interprets one’s life NOW…!

It takes a week of remembering (dhikr)…or even more days to relish the beauty of this method…

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THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 20, 2021 EDITORIAL

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Catching up

ne of the problems seen by government as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic is the widespread poverty that is projected to become worst. This is because the policies formulated to protect the population against the disease is likely to impact negatively on the Philippine economy. It’s the nature of policies promoting health. Something must be sacrificed. It’s either the quality of life on one hand; or income and productivity of firms on the other hand.

After a year of COVID-19, what stands out is the increase in prices of important commodities. This happened despite the government efforts to provide money transfers as supplement to decreases in the purchasing power of Filipinos. Apparently, the money subsidies were not enough. A lot of people lost their employment and the money provided could not compensate for the level of income lost. Many establishments closed due to the stringent measures imposed by the Interagency Task Force. The supply and demand forces thus impacted greatly on prices of commodities. This increase in prices is called inflation.

Inquirer.net reports that “Inflation spiked last January to its highest in two years, catching government and private sector economists by surprise. Not only was the rate of increase in prices of basic commodities the highest since January 2019’s 4.4 percent, it also breached the government’s target range of 2-4 percent for 2021. The sad part is that the impact of high prices is terrible on poor households, as inflation for the bottom 30-percent income households climbed to 4.9 percent, also the highest in two years”. It is a high price for people to pay for protection against COVID-19.

Now that the much awaited COVID-19 vaccines are coming, how much catching up should be done? Not only are we short of funds to buy ever increasing basic commodities, the high risk groups protected by health policies (the children and the elderly) are like prisoners in their homes, taking only short breaks under the sunlight, and losing their social interactions. The new normal still has to be defined, especially in the educational sector.

Where else do we have to catch up? The lag created by the slow communication (action?) in the purchase of vaccines pushed us to the back, behind in investment prospects compared to other brighter developing nations. Some of these countries have already vaccinated their population, with some waiting for the booster shots. Should we give credence to the term ‘Sick Man of Asia’ when we basked in the limelight before as ‘Asia’s Rising Tiger’?

Maybe, it’s high time the president appoints a ‘catching up’ czar to put the country’s development in proper perspective. MC +

I

n a pre-recorded speech aired late Monday, President Rodrigo Duterte again blasted Vice President Leni Robredo. Duterte’s latest tirade against the second highest elected official of the land came after the latter likened to “extortion” the President’s demand that the United States pay the Philippines to keep the Visiting Forces Agreement. Duterte made the remark on Friday in his speech at the inspection of newly delivered air assets at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

“I would like to put on notice if there’s an American agent here that from now on, you want the Visiting Forces Agreement done? Well, you have to pay,” Duterte is quoted in reports as saying even as he lamented how the promises of the US relative to the VFA remains largely unfulfilled. “In the past, we ordered so much from them and so much were not delivered at all,” the President said referring to war materials.

“Parang extortion lang” was how Robredo described Duterte’s demand. “Parang ano eh, parang kriminal eh. ‘Kung gusto mo nito, magbayad ka muna’,” Robredo said in her weekly radio show, adding abrogation of the VFA should be for the benefit of the country, and not because of the failure of the U.S. to pay.

As always, Duterte did not take the Vice President’s remark lightly.

“This Robredo is a lawyer… They should look at the Constitution.

The foreign policy is vested in the president alone… Every time she opens her mouth, she forgets that she is a lawyer. Being a lawyer, she should know that the Constitution says that that is my function. It is not their function,” reports quoted Duterte as saying.

He was reported adding: “You, ma’am, I’m sorry to say, you are not really qualified to run for president. You do not know your role. If by an unfortunate chance you become the President, please study more. I think that you need a refresher course in law.”

Asked during an interview what she had to say in response to Duterte’s tirade, the lady Vice-President had this to say: “Kapag ganoon kasi, hindi naman siya iyong magdedesisyon kung qualified ako o hindi, pero iyong taumbayan iyong magdedesisyon. Hindi ko naman dedepensahan iyong sarili ko. Pero iyong sa akin lang, makakabuti sa ating lahat kapag nakikinig—kapag

‘Not fit to be President’

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

nakikinig sa mungkahi, nakikinig sa pagpansin ng ibang mga polisiya. Kasi pinakita ng buong mundo, lalo ngayong panahon ng krisis, na iyong mga leaders na marunong magkonsulta, iyong mga leaders na marunong tumanggap ng mga pagkukulang, iyong mga leaders na marunong makinig, mas consultative, mas maayos iyong response. So— Siyempre, ako, nalulungkot ako na iyong response sa ating mga mungkahi ay pangiinsulto, pero sa akin, hindi ko naman iyon kontrolado.

Ang kontrolado ko lang iyong gagawin ko. Nakakalungkot, pero tayo, sige lang.

Hindi tayo nagpapaapekto doon.”

We believe that says a lot about the character of Robredo, her statesmanship, and whether of not she is qualified to become President of the Philippines in the future. But that is our own opinion. Others are entitled to their own, even their “blind belief” to the man from Mindanao who currently sits as President of the Republic of the Philippines. In the same manner, they are entitled to their belief in his “infallibility.”

Meanwhile, Senator Panfilo Lacson, who in a tweet referring to the President’s demand from the Us government said “not all Filipinos are extortionists,” threw the 1987 Constitution back at President Duterte.

“Mr. President, read the 1987 Constitution. A senator has something to do with international agreements,” Lacson tweeted on Tuesday after Duterte said that a sitting senator had nothing to do with the issue of the country’s visiting forces agreement with the United States.

Lacson included in his tweet Article VII SECTION 21 of the Constitution which states “No treaty or international agreement shall be valid and effective unless concurred in by at least two-thirds of all the Members of the Senate.”

‘Nuff said. MC

We believe that says a lot about the character of Robredo, her statesmanship, and whether of not she is qualified to become President of the Philippines in the future.

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OME Moro netizens have roundly criticized moves to extend the three-year Bangsamoro Transitional Authority (BTA), in a thought all along that it was a home-based, “self-serving” initiative being advanced by officials of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

I would advise my friends and kin among them to read beyond what is being controverted and Nash B. Maulana spread over social media, chiefly, on Facebook. nash.penlight@gmail.com One FB post says BARMM should not call for González delivered the UN Secretary-General’s the postponement of their term” lest such would mean “self-serving” to the rest, “but let others do message during his delegation’s visit on the 52nd it. And do not react to adverse comments about of the Parliament’s Regular Session.

Says González the UN is a “global community of postponement as it is not your job to defend knowledge” and that this assembly of nation-states BARMM from those comments.”

So not being organic member of the BARMM has participated in hundreds of ‘peace processes’.

“This experience, this knowledge is at your official family, it is my job—as a journalist— to clarify certain points whenever a piece of disposal. So I strongly encourage you to seize this information is released for the general public. First- opportunity and make the most of what the UN can off, it was the Provincial Board of Maguindanao offer,” he tells the Paeliament.

González conveyed the congratulatory message which first officially asked Congress to extend the three-year term of the BTA, noting that it was too of the UN Secretary General to the BARMM short for a lot of things bilaterally half-finished leadership, days past the region’s celebration of its founding anniversary and for “the significant along the track of the Peace Process.

Second, the same call was followed by the achievements for the past two years.”

“You have had two years with plenty of Tawi-Tawi Chapter of the League of Municipalities (LMP), and then came the Mindanao People’s challenges but with very concrete achievement.

Caucus (MPC) following their consultation series The Secretary General is proud of your engaging and focus group discussions (FGDs) on the proposed the UN in this process. Significant achievements have been accomplished since the establishment of extension.

Wit h United Nat ions Secreta ry -General BARMM including the forming of the transitional António Guterres acknowledging the BARMM government and the Parliament, the Bangsamoro leadership’s significant achievements, who could Transition Authority institutionalizing moral ask for more, even as the fledgling region enters governance under the leadership of Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim,” González said. only its second year of existence?

“This is the moment where the close work Gustavo González, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Philippines, between BARMM and UN is fundamental. Today, delivered the UN Secretary-General’s message with all the challenges that we have hit and with during his visit to the BTA on Wednesday February the support of the UN, I believe that we can be 17, 2021, saying “the UN remains committed to the part of this transformation of the history of the Philippines,” González said. MC success of the Bangsamoro Transition.”

UN SecretaryGeneral fetes with BTA on 2nd year

Penlight

is published every Saturday by the Mindanao Cross Publishers, Inc., Sinsuat cor Quezon Avenues, Cotabato City. Tel Nos. (064) 4217161 and E-mail Address: mindanao.cross@gmail.com | mincross101@yahoo.com.ph Fr. Rogelio Tabuada, OMI, Chief-Executive-Officer Eva Kimpo - Tan, Editor-in-Chief Edwin O. Fernandez, News Editor Gemma A. Peñaflor, Administration and Marketing Executive Valérie Ann P. Lambo, Reporter Julito P. Torres, Circulation Officer Karl John B. Daniel, Graphic-Layout Artist COTABATO CITY / ARMM CORRESPONDENTS

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

NORTH / SOUTH COTABATO CORRESPONDENTS Williamor Magbanua Romer “Bong” Sarmiento Roel Osano Orlando Dinoy CARTOONIST Lourd Jim Diazon

Member: PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

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

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Conflict of interest

Bangsamoro child shall be left behind” under the present dispensation.

That instead of election BARMM and many others want extension of the current interim political Charlie Señase set-up for another three csenase@yahoo.com years to ensure strong N any forum of discussion, there is moral foundation. always pro-and-con to a particular Whatever happens, former Cotabato issue of concern may it be in the realm City mayor, vice mayor and now Moro of peace, justice and development. Thus, National Liberation Front Chair individual craving and aspiration is Muslimin Sema has sounded-off to remind always a struggle, may it be in the realm BARMM and the central government on of politics, economy and other schools of the “peace and development” envisioned thought. in the 1996 Final Peace Accord between On Tuesday, the Supreme Court’s the GRP and the MNLF under the unanimous decision to dismiss the auspices of the Organization of Islamic electoral protest filed by defeated vice Countries (OIC). It has yet to be “fully presidential bet Ferdinand Marcos, Implemented” especially on the peace Jr. against installed and development VP Leni Robredo aspect by providing elicited favorable free education, health, and unfavorable infrastructure and comments from both other services in the political camps.

13 provinces.

Doubt and W i t h t h e pessimism surfaced current five-province at a time when the BARMM, the recent high tribunal has yet MNLF statement to decide on a number indicates revival of of pending cases that the ancient Moro some proponents traditional homeland ignored. Why is this in Mindanao, Sulu and so?

Palawan or MINSUPALA that the once Here’s a timely post worth pondering united MNLF had been fighting for, and to all and sundry: Earthly position and then the break-up and the birth of more possession don’t make us sacred cows and armed breakaway groups fighting for untouchables to be proud and arrogant their own vested interest. in defiance to existing laws.

In these trying times with still Government is for the people and unresolved COVID-19 and variants, “public servants” must be truly service- West African countries are on high alert oriented to reach-out in whatever way after Ebola outbreak in Guinea killed possible to the poorest of the poor. two.

Any contrary opinion is welcomed as TIME TO PAUSE espoused by Bangsamoro authorities to Don’t fear those who kill the body but pursue moral governance amid health cannot kill the soul, but rather fear God and security threats and uncertainties. who is able to destroy both soul and body B A R M M E d u c a t i o n M i n i s t e r in hell (Matthew 10:28).

Mohagher Iqbal has assured to cope The way to peace we have not known up with the health menace under the because there’s no justice in us, and those nationwide “new normal” educational who take our crooked ways shall not approach. He admitted though how know peace. the pandemic slowed-down its regional Cursed is the man who trusts in man mission-and- vision to institute its and makes flesh his strength and whose e d u c a t i o n a l a d v o c a c y t h a t “ N o heart departs from the LORD Almighty.MC with it.

The illness does not deter her from pursuing her many interests. A visit to her home is like being in a theme store. At Christmas time, she personally takes out her nativity collection, accumulated through the years of travel. When Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy Christmas time is over, she franco1573victoria@gmail.com wraps each piece one by one with tissue paper. One hirty years is a long time for those wonders how she could do all these, and who have little to do, but for the does patchwork and beads her gowns. industrious, those committed to Nothing in her fields of endeavors their calling, time passes by unnoticed. has escaped her in the matter of awards.

Before one knows it, years have gone by. A multi-awarded professional, she was For Dr. Helen de Peralta Yambao, chosen Woman of Distinction by the those years were full of challenges Soroptimist International, Philippines and successes. Up till now, she heads Region. the gargantuan task of chartering the She holds a Masters in Public directions and goals of the Cotabato Management from the Development Regional and Medical Center. Foreign Academy of the Philippines; a Master donors line the hospital doors to donate of Arts in Hospital Administration; the much needed equipment for the Masters in Hospital; Administration-UP hospital,that serves this side of the Open University; Bachelor of science country including the BARMM, a sign of in Physical Therapy; Observership in confidence in her capability to run and Gynecological Oncology at Mount Sinai handle the day to day activities at the Hospital, NY , USA; Fellowship training hospital. Her stewardship at the hospital in Gynecological Oncology, Residency during this pandemic is remarkable, as in Obstetrics and gynecology; residency are the other endeavors in the past. in Internal Medicine. She graduated as The University of the Philippines, valedictorian from the Notre Dame of College of medicine saw the brilliant Midsayap. doctora go through the rigors of Medical Retirement from Government school. She was quite popular with her service may be the current option, but classmates. she will be back for more challenges, if we They later were her peer support know her enough. We hold our breaths when she was diagnosed with breast for the next outstanding episode in the cancer. This cancer survivor lives to show life of the lady with a distinguished that early direction is the key to living legacy in hospital management. MC

True to Form

I

Earthly position and possession don’t make us sacred cows and untouchables to be proud and arrogant in defiance to existing laws.

A Woman of Distinction, Dr. Helen P. Yambao

The Stuff of Life

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February 20, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Falls and its consequences

the ground, floor or lower level.” Other definitions which mean different things to different people include slips, stumble and trip.

Sometimes, people Cheridine P. Oro- Josef, M.D., DFM, FPAFP, FPCGM cheridinemd@gmail.com fall from a fainting spell, a seizure attack or loss of consciousness. Dizziness is a he was very hungry. She needed to get some food. It was midnight prelude to most fainting events. The older and the family was fast asleep. She person is prone to experience dizziness wanted to wake her caregiver but decided due to most of the physiologic changes not to because she seemed to look so deep of ageing. The narrowing of peripheral in her sleep. At 93, even when I told her not vision, difficulty discriminating sounds, to trust her muscles, she stood up and went slow reaction time all lead to an escalated to the kitchen by herself when she slipped fear of falling or loss of balance.

Falls exert a great impact on the on the floor and broke her back bone. From that day onwards, she became bedridden. quality of life of older persons. Falls can Why do we fall? Although, more lead to traumatic fractures, or broken traumatic at an older age. Fall can bones and soft tissue injuries. Many happen at any time in a person’s life. On times, one experience of fall may lead to first impressions, the definition of a fall depression or fear of getting up or walking seems obvious. Understanding exactly again. At such an event, an older person what a fall is, and what it means, is an should be compassionately taken cared of.

The good news is, we can prevent falling important step in treating and preventing falls. Distinguishing between different through proper exercise and knowing how situations such as falls, slips, trips, faints to carry our bodies. Strengthening our and stumbles is important as it leads muscles and doing resistance training can to different treatment and prevention help build confidence in the way an older strategies. The World Health Organization person move and deal with their everyday define Falls as an “event which results in life. Careful steps and awake sense play a a person coming to rest inadvertently on key role in preventing falls.

My 93 year old patient is still fighting. the ground or floor or other lower level.”

Prevention of Falls Network Europe Although unable to get up now, she would defines it as “ an unexpected event in do passive exercises while on bed. It is which the participant comes to rest on really never too late at all. MC

Golden Threads

S

Those who aspire not only to be financial independent but to be rich naturally need to think smarter and work doubly harder. To think what investments can possibly Danny Buenbrazo produce extraordinary danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com income in a shorter period and to effectively implement uring my classes for students aspiring to earn a Master’s in Public the plans necessary to take the dream into Administration degree, I posed the reality.

Robert Kiyosaki of the “Rich Dad. question: what is the difference between a person that has attained financial Poor Dad” fame believes that investing in independence from another described as real estate is the better way to achieving rich? Most of the students are gainfully financial independence and getting rich. employed or at least had previous working He admits that other investments like government securities, equities, and experiences.

The question was asked for two other investment instruments may also purposes. First was to test the level of increase one’s net worth but insists that financial literacy of the students. The other buying properties and transforming them into income generating reason was to illustrate is the better way. that the difference in the Financial independence is assets You can read Kiyosaki’s type of plan and level of achieved when a person has The Real Book of Real effort required to meet Estate to learn more the established target: financial independence saved enough or has a good about his thoughts..

What are the basic or becoming rich. and stable source of income things to consider when F i n a n c i a l that can tide him or her investing in real estate? independence is achieved when a person for the rest of a person’s a n sTwheer ws toaunl dd a br de has saved enough or has normal expected life span. location, location, a good and stable source location. But then the of income that can tide most accessible real him or her for the rest of a person’s normal expected life span. This estates (those located along major roads) financial state still requires the person to are positively expensive for the average be responsible and to have self-restraint person. With limited resources, you must though he or she can afford common be incredibly creative to be able to purchase luxuries. A rich person, on the other hand, prime properties. But as access to various does no always have to frequently check his places within a town or city improves, more net worth before making a decision to buy land becomes available to the aspiring real an expense car, take a two week vacation estate investor.

Some real property may be located in abroad, or otherwise indulge in expensive the interior or even hinterlands but they hobbies.

Thus, the path to attaining financial could still end up providing high income independence is certainly an easier road to the owner when turned into farms to tread, the bar to overcome being lower with high-value products, resorts, or a than that you must clear to be called rich. combination of the two.

One should avoid overpaying though.

Financial independence can be achieved by controlling expenses, expanding income The amount paid for the land should be (having a second job or a sideline business), recovered in 10 years or less. Still, the saving a significant portion of regular payback period for the cost of the land income plus the bulk of windfall cash and the development may exceed 10 years inflows (extra bonuses and the like) and but there could be rapid appreciation developing a stable cash flow through land values which would make it a wise investment. MC investments.

A So You Want to Buy a Real Property….

Market Driven

D

7

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 20, 2021

IP leader: claimants flood South Upi after BTA ...from P1

Leticio Datuwata, the “Timuay Labi” (Supreme chieftain) of Timuay Justice and Governance, an indigenous political structure of the Teduray and Lambangian tribes in South Upi, said recently “the deluge” of multiple land claimants caused the land conflict that displaced thousands of families in the area.

Republic of the Philippines Supreme Court 5th SHARI’A DISTRICT COURT Cotabato City

SDC SPL. PROC. CASE NO. 2020-507 IN THE MATTER OF THE INTESTATE OF THE DECEASED MAUWEYA ABUBAKAR MASABPI BAINAIRA SILONGAN MASABPI,

Petitioner. x-------------------------------------x ORDER

Before this Court is a petition for the issuance of the Letters of Administration alleging among others; That the petitioner, Bainaira Silongan Masabpi, was married to Muaweya Abubakar Masabpi (Muaweya) in accordance with Islamic rites and tradition on November 25, 2017; That her husband died on August 10, 2020 and was survived by the petitioner and their unborn baby (6 months old); That the decedent left the following properties: (a) Parcel of land situated in Poblacion Cotabato City, covered by TCT No. T-53846; (b) Co-owner of Masabpi Commercial Building, Hotel and Convention Hall at Mabini St., Brgy. Bagua, Cotabato City (c) One (1) Condominium Unit located at Wack Wack Twin Tower Condo Greenhills, Mandaluyong City; (d) Banco de Oro Peso Account No. 002810094272; (e) Banco de Oro Peso Account No. 002330102832 (SM Hypermart Cubao Branch; (f) Bank of the Philippine Islands Peso Account No. 003095803-93; (g) Bank of the Philippine Islands Peso Account No. 0033032103-92 (Shaw Blvd.

Branch), and Banco de Oro ATM Card; That the decedent left an outstanding obligation, payable in installment basis on a Toyota Hilux Pick-up; and that the petitioner is qualified to become administratrix of the said estate and not disqualified under the law.

The petition being sufficient in form and substance is set for hearing on February 23, 2021 at 8:30 in the morning.

The petitioner is directed to cause the publication of this Order once a week in three consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation. Anybody who maybe adversely affected by the relief sought for may file his opposition thereto or appear on said date and show cause why the petition should not be granted.

SO ORDERED. Marawi City for Cotabato City, December 29, 2020.

(Sgd.) RASAD S. LAGUINDAB Acting Presiding Judge MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Speaking at a virtual forum dubbed “COVID, Conflicts and the Peace Process: Focus on South Upi” on February 6, he noted the numerous Bangsamoro claimants tried to claim ownership over their ancestral land following the installation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), BARMM’s governing body led by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late RAGA MAMARIONG, who died on August 24, 2017 at Poblacion 2, Parang, Maguindanao, a parcel of land Lot No. 2347-B,TS215, situated at Poblacion 2, Parang, Maguindanao with an area of 121 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous waiver of rights, before Notary Public Atty. Mimbalawag T. Mangutara Jr., CPA as per Doc. No. 75; Page No. 16; Book No. LVI; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6 , 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late ABUBACAR P. PIANG and ROSITA R. PIANG, who died on January 29, 2015 and January 27, 2021, respectively at Cotabato City, left real properties: parcels of land covered

by Transfer Certificate Nos. T-49366, T-51502, T-18206, T-2732 and T-154-2019000710, all situated at Bo. Kakar, Bo. Matampay and Bo.Poblacion all in Cotabato City with the total area of 1,291 sq. mts., more or less; an Isuzu vehicle with Engine No. 4JB13C4381A, Chassis No. PABNHR55ELH011160 with FB Body and 2017 series; Bank Accounts at BPI under Account Nos. 2163222968 & 2163221821 and PNB with Account No. 405270002424; Claims and Benefits from GSIS under ID No. 58040702189 and HDMF (PAG-ibig) ID No. 194000166506 , are the subject of Extrajudicial Settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. De Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 1912; Page No. 1912; Book No. XXVI; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6, 2021

Republic of the Philippines CITY GOVERNMENT OF COTABATO Region XII OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

Notice is hereby given that the late Spouses R I C A R D O N I E VA NIMUAN and SUSANA FA R R O N I M U A N who died intestate on April 1, 1988 and March 8, 1978 at Kilada, Matalam, Cotabato left a parcel of land covered

by TCT No. P-52979, Lot 2, Sgs-2742 and TCT No. T-58626, Lot 1, Sgs2742 situated at Kilada, Matalam,Cotabato with a total area of 145,002 sq. mts. more or less are the subject of Extrajudicial settlement of estate with simultaneous deed of sale, before Notary Public Atty.

Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 318; Page No. 64; Book No. CXXVII; Series of 2019

In compliance with Section 5 of R.A Act No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the Public that Armando Russell Bravo Bulatao has filed with this office a petition for Change of First Name from Russell to Armando Russell in the birth certificate of Russell Bravo Bulatao who was born on October 15, 1965 at Cotabato City and whose parents are Adriano Ferrer Bulatao and Nelia Nabor Bravo Any Person adversely affected by said petition may file his/her wirtten opposition with this office not later than February 18, 2021.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

MC: Feb. 20 & 27. 2021

(Sgd) Tohamy M. Lauban Registration Officer Lauban

Datuwata said their ancestral domain had already been delineated and submitted to the central office of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in October 2018, two months before Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the BARMM was ratified.

“Since time immemorial, the indigenous peoples have been the occupants of our ancestral land,” he said, adding they have not known “any Bangsamoro brothers to have owned lands in the disputed area until they surfaced rampantly after the BARMM was created.”

BARMM spokesperson Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo said the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB) is already aware of the problem involving the ancestral domain delineation in the region.

“The issue on jurisdiction over ancestral domain in the Bangsamoro region is being discussed by the IGRB,” said Sinarimbo, also the concurrent Minister of the Interior and Local Government. He did not elaborate, however.

The IGRB is an innovative feature enshrined in RA 11054, popularly called the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), the enabling law for the creation of the Bangsamoro region.

Its main task is to build

on points of cooperation between the national and the Bangsamoro governments and co-chaired

by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and BARMM Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal.

Sinarimbo asserted that following the creation of the BARMM, the NCIP “has no longer jurisdiction in the delineation of ancestral lands in the Bangsamoro region.”

He cited that under the CAB and Section 10 of the Philippine Constitution, the power on ancestral domain and natural resources is vested on the Bangsamoro autonomous region.

According to Sinarimbo, settling the issue on which has jurisdiction over the delineation of ancestral domain in the BARMM is crucial in finding solution to the lingering land dispute that displaced thousands of families in South Upi town.

Last December 31, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters burned at least 13 houses in Barangay Itaw in a bid to take the land occupied by the Teduray and Lambangian tribes there, the military said.

The Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry Division, headed

by Major General Juvymax Uy, has created Task Force “Ketenanek,” (peacefulness) to reconcile the conflicting parties in South Upi.

BARMM lags behind in...from P1

education system.”

These, Iqbal said, are: Development of relevant and appropriate curriculum and competency standards; Effective use of learning assessment mechanisms; Hiring of qualified teachers through merit-based and well-screened recruitment process; Support to the professional development of MBHTE personnel; Use of quality textbooks and learning materials; and Setting standards for school infrastructure, management, and quality assurance.

Iqbal said the region’s education sector would still put in place more innovative adjustments in implementing its programs amid the challenges in the new normal.

Iqbal said more longterm solutions are even provided in the proposed Bangsamoro Education Code. The proposed law, now being deliberated on at the Regional Parliament, carries the autonomous government’s advocacy for

a “No Bangsamoro Child Shall Be Left Behind.”

“We will engage with other education stakeholders, from the regional government down to the local government units, to ensure support for education programs implemented both at regional and division levels, as well as the school improvement plans,” Iqbal said.

Solutions “MBHTE has tirelessly worked on crafting policies and implement programs that respond to the ‘new normal’. These also included dealing with other various issues that have unjustly affected the Bangsamoro education sector for the past two or three decades,” Iqbal said.

Despite these challenges faced by the interim government, Iqbal assured that providing essential services to the Bangsamoro education community, children and young people alike, remain a key priority of the ministry.

Alburo, DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer said.

Project manager Eduardo E. Suaybaguio, speaking on behalf of Foreign Assisted Projects Undersecretary, Bernie F. Cruz, said that before the road was paved with concrete, farmers and residents walk through a very narrow and rough footpath which becomes slippery whenever it rains.

“Vehicles could not drive through either. But with this FMR, the area is now accessible to all types of vehicles,” Suaybaguio said.

He said the road project funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was implemented under the MinSAAD project of DAR.

Farmers, officials...from P1 EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late SPS. NICANOR PADIOS PABIONA SR. and ANGUSTIA PALOMA PABIONA, who died intestate on May 4, 1982 and September 2, 2001 at Matalam, Cotabato and Davao City, respectively, a parcel of land Lot 5, Block 15, Pcs-3679, situated at Bo. Colina, Cotabato City with an area of 400 sq. mts., more or less, covered by TCT No. T-2538, is the subject of Extrajudicial Settlement before Notary Public Atty. Melquiades E. Cedeño, as per Doc. No. 405; Page No. 81; Book No. CCLXXV; Series of 2020.

MC: Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6 , 2021

O CENTS TWO Hijabophobia

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BY Michelle Olivia P. Awal

ilk, cotton, plain or printed. No matter how simple or extravagant a hijab may be, the essence of wearing it should solely base on its true purpose and that is for the glory of the Creator.

With diligence, a number of women with Islamic beliefs are wearing their hijab. It is upon one’s will if she will wear it or opt not to. No one should have the right to discriminate a non-hijab wearer for superficial appearance is not an ample measure of faith.

As an individual who was exposed to the rich culture of my Muslim brothers and sisters, women wearing hijab is a usual view to me. I admire the women who took their time to fix their hijab in an appropriate manner. Despite the raging heat of the sun, it is not a hindrance for them to follow this practice. My inquisitive mind fueled me to try wearing hijab for a day. My friends helped me fix my hijab and after just a few hours, I started sweating profusely due to the fact that I’m not used to being covered in the midst of this tropical climate.

From then on, I realized the sacrifice that they had to make is more laborious than it seems. Most of them looked absolutely stunning when wearing their hijab.

You wouldn’t see the discomfort in their faces, it’s as if there isn’t any piece of cloth covering them. I realized that maybe their faith lightens the burden that’s why it seemed so easy for them to do so.

Stereotyping and hijabophobia seemed evident in some narrow-minded individuals. Hijabophobia is a type of religious and cultural discrimination against Muslim women wearing Islamic veils, including the hijab, chador, niqab and burqa. It is considered a genderspecific type of Islamophobia, or simply “hostility towards the hijab”.

Others show no respect for covered women and have this misconception of being abused or worst, they seem to have this connotation that wearing of hijab equates to having no freedom. It’s unfortunate for them to have this kind of impression which is far from the true meaning behind it. Perhaps more knowledge should be disseminated for them to be more open to this idea. Wearing of hijab is a sacred sacrifice, that fear is irrelevant, and that respect on what is known or unknown should be a norm.

To women who are not yet ready to wear their hijab, there should be no shaming. The essence of it should not be hastened or its purpose will be useless.

Wear it when you are ready and not for just mere fashion. Wear it when your faith is more essential than any other factors.

To women who are already wearing their hijab, wear it proudly and be a good example to your fellow believers in Islam. When wearing it, one must not only have a clean piece of cloth but more importantly a pure state of thinking that could lead to the proliferation of peace.

Above all, a hijab is not just a piece of cloth with embellishments, pins, and tassels. It’s a way of life, a sign of obedience, and a wholesome practice. We should always be mindful that one must show utmost respect to a sacred belief.

Michelle Olivia P. Awal, 22, is a nursing graduate.

Currently, she is reviewing for the board exam and destresses through writing. She deems that a person should take every chance they get, have no frets to avoid regrets.

NPAs gone in 13...from P1

The area clearing and validation board meeting Wednesday among provincial officials, the police and military was parallel with ELCAC’s security thrusts, according to Catamco.

Lt. Col Jeoffrey Carangdang, representing 10th ID, said during the meeting that there is leeway now for the implementation of more socio-economic projects needed to hasten the recovery of residents in the 13 barangays from adverse effects of armed conflicts.

C o l .

N o m a n Alcovindas, also from

the 10th ID, and two representatives from PRO12, Col. Borbon Limson and Lt. Col Peter Pinalgan Jr., also participated in the online conference.

Brig. Gen. John Michael Dubria, police director for Region 12, said Thursday credit for the initial dividends gained by the ELCAC program in North Cotabato has to go to the provincial government and local officials in the municipalities of Tulunan and Makilala.

“It was them who worked hard for the ELCAC to take off in the province,” Dubria said.

8

February 20, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

UNICEF backs possible face-to-face classes

THE United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has expressed support to possibility of bringing back learners to face-to-face classroom sessions in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Andrew Morris, chief of UNICEF Mindanao Field Office, said the international body is working along a program track on the “Safe return to school: An urgent priority to secure the future of every child in the Bangsamoro region.”

At a virtual presser here Thursday, Morris said in BARMM alone, a total of 890,985 enrolled children were forced to end schooling period earlier than the fixed regular school year due to imposed lockdown as of March 2020.

Morris said there is a growing concern on the sustainability of the home-

based learning modality in Philippine regions, including BARMM. “There is a growing concern on the sustainability of the homebased learning modality since not all families can provide the necessary and appropriate parental guidance and support to their children,” Morris said on weekend.

Some schools have opted for soft-reopening of classroom learning sessions, as the Covid19 eases down. In such case, Morris said, the UNICEF has been doing its part to ensure safe return of students to normal classes. Nash B. Maulana

RELEASED MOOE. Teachers and principals from 43 schools in Cotabato City flocked the office Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education on Friday, February 19, to personally obtain bank cheques for their Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE). This, following a Facebook post of Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi expressing her sentiments against the delayed MOOE. Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro Government

BIFF yield to Army Army guarding against Maute attacks in Maguindanao

More Moro extremists have surrendered to military authorities in Maguindanao with their high-powered firearms.

Seven members of outlawed and ISISinspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) turned themselves in to the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, claiming they were misled to join the armed struggled against powerful government military.

During surrender rites, the BIFF turned in one 60 mm mortar tube/launcher, one Cal .50 Sniper rifle, M-16 rifle, M1 Garand Cal .30, M1 Garand Cal .30 converted to M14 rifle, to Lt. Colonel Omar Orozco at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Midtimbang, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Maguindanao Wednesday.

“It was an indication the govnerment’s peace program si winning the hearts of extremists,” Orozco said during surrender rites witnessed

by Brigadier General Jose Narciso, 6th Infantry Division deputy commander, Colonel Pedro Balisi of 1st Mechanized Brigade and Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang Jr of Guindulungan.

“Because of the difficulty we have experienced inside the BIFF organization, no food, we were always on the run, we could not be with our families…so we decided to surrender,” one of the surrenderees said.

Major General Juvymax R. Uy, 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded

the participation of the local government in the campaign against loose firearms.

A total of 78 BIFF members have laid down their firearms to surrender since the assumption of Maj. Gen. Uy as division commander in September last year. 2020.

Meanwhile, the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade said its troops have uncovered an abandoned BIFF encampment in the towns of Datu Hofer and Guindulungan, both in Maguindanao.

Colonel Eduardo Gubat, commander of 603rd Infantry Brigade, said joint forces from the Army’s 57th, 38th and 37th Infantry Battalions discovered the encampment of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Sitio Pinotpot, Barangay Ahan, Guindulungan.

“It can accommodate 30 to 35 persons with running trenches and fox holes,” Gubat said Thursday.

Gubat described the BIFF as “peace spoilers” who continue to launch attacks against government forces in Maguindanao despite the government’s peace programs.

He said a follow up operation also led to the discovery of firearms and high explosives in Sitio Manub, Barangay Macalag, Datu Hoffer.

Soldiers found in two areas improvised hand grenades, 50 grams gun powder, blasting caps, home-made 12 gauge shotgun and assorted bomb making components. Edwin

O. Fernandez

Happy 64th Anniversary

DXMS RADYO BIDA COTABATO

The military is bracing for possible retaliation by the Maute terror group after soldiers killed three members and took over its enclave in Madamba town last week.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said Thursday Army units in Lanao del Sur province

have since been imposing tight security measures after the incident.

The Maute camp in Barangay Bawang in Madamba, Lanao del Sur that soldiers cleared from occupation by terrorists after a six-hour gunfight had foxholes and shelters enough to accommodate no fewer than 50 gunmen.

Three Maute members were killed in the hostilities, according to Vinluan.

Last week's military-Maute skirmishes erupted when terrorists opened fire at personnel of the Army’s 1st Scout Ranger Battalion dispatched to check an enemy encampment in Barangay Bawang.

Army Rangers and Maute

P3

UN Secretary-General hails BARMM leadership UNITED NATIONS Secretary-General António Guterres has acknowledged what he said was significant achievements made by the leadership of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) during the last two years.

Gustavo González, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Philippines, delivered the UN Secretary-General’s message during his visit to the BTA on Wednesday February 17, 2021, saying “the UN remains committed to the success of the Bangsamoro Transition.”

“This is the moment

where the close working relationship between BARMM and the UN is fundamental. Today, with all the challenges that we have had and with the support of the UN, I believe that we can be part of this transformation of the history of the Philippines,” González quoted UN Secretary-General Guterres, as saying.

The visit to BARMM

by González’s delegation to deliver the UN SecretaryGeneral’s Message coincided the 52nd of the BTA Parliament’s Regular Session.

González said the UN is a “global community

of knowledge” and that this assembly of nationstates “has participated in hundreds of ‘peace processes.”

“This experience, this knowledge is at your disposal. So I strongly encourage you to seize this opportunity and make the most of what the UN can offer,” Gonzalez told the Parliament.

González conveyed the congratulatory message of the UN Secretary General to the BARMM leadership, days past the region’s celebration of its founding anniversary and underscoring “significant achievements in the past

two years.”

Philhealth Regional Office XII commenced the monthlong celebration of its 26th year with a thanksgiving mass at the Christ the King Cathedral, City of Koronadal on followed by a motorcade around the city’s major thoroughfares.

It also unveiled the different activities lined-up to underscore the theme, “Philhealth

@26th: Patuloy na nagmamalasakit at naglilingkod sa Pamilyang Filipino.

With the help of Philippine Red Cross South Cotabato Chapter, it conducted a Blood-letting activity, where at least 25 employees joined and donated blood on February 9, 2021.

A display of

anniversary shirts for the last 26 years was done at the Training Room to showcase the different images of the marketing shirts the employees used that contributed to the growth and accomplishments of the regional office. It likewise served as a reminder of their commitment to the Universal Health Care.

Highlighting this year’s celebration are the corporate social responsibility activities for the 27 residents of Cotabato Bahay Maria Foundation, Inc in Cotabato City and 50 B’laan families in Sitio Ulo, Barangay Landan, Polomolok, South Cotabato on February 24 and 26, 2021 respectively.

“You have had two years with plenty of challenges but with very concrete achievement. The Secretary General is proud of your engaging the UN in this process. Significant achievements have been accomplished since the establishment of BARMM including the forming of the transitional government and the Parliament, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority institutionalizing moral governance under the leadership of Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim,” González said. Nash B.

Maulana

Philhealth XII celebrates 26th anniversary

Hannah Naanep

Vandals attack 2 Catholic chapels in Basilan...from P2

Quevedo, and Gov. Nancy Catamco of North Cotabato, which is not even inside BARMM’s core territory, have manifested favor for the extension of the transition process.

Such extension requires imprimatur from the legislature, which has to cancel next year’s supposed first ever BARMM regional polls via an enabling measure.

“We have lawmakers in the House of Representatives and in the Senate who have expressed support for such,

which is so essential in building enduring peace in the Bangsamoro region,” Sinarimbo said.

The deactivation of MILF guerillas is being initiated by a multinational bloc, the International Decommissioning Body, or IDB, led by the Turkish government.

The IDB still has to disarm no fewer than 20,000 MILF members scattered in the Bangsamoro region.

Turkey is a memberstate of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, or OIC,

comprised of more than 50 Muslim states, including wealthy petroleum exporting countries in the Middle East and North Africa.

The two compacts between the MILF and Malacañang that paved the way for the creation of BARMM - the 2012 Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and, subsequently, the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro - were reached by both sides with the help of Malaysia, also

an OIC-member state, as facilitator.

The MILF has representatives to the IDB, whose decommissioning thrusts are being complemented by BARMM with humanitarian and socio-economic interventions meant to fully transform former rebels into peaceful and productive residents of the autonomous region.

“That is a very tedious and challenging process. We need enough time for that,” Sinarimbo said. John Felix

Unson