The Mindanao Cross | February 27, 2021 by The Mindanao Cross

CHURCH / P6

New Malaysian contingent to IMT arriving soon

Sanduguan / P8

Tagle gets another Vatican post

COVID-19 VACCINE: Growing pains

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

BARMM OKs CIVIL SERVICE CODE BY EDWIN O. FERNANDEZ

The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) parliament has made another landmark legislation – the passage of the Bangsamoro Civil Service Code (BCSC).

It was announced by parliament deputy Speaker Omar Yasser Sema who presided Session 54 of its second regular session Thursday. Sema, who acted as speaker of the day, said by nominal voting, 67 Members of Parliament (MPs) approved the passage of BTA Cabinet Bill No. 59 entitled “An Act providing for

SIDE BAR

BARMM allots P1.8B development projects BY EDWIN O. FERNANDEZ

More infrastructure projects are expected to rise in the new geographical areas of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). BARMM Public Works Minister Eduard Guerra said Cotabato City and 63 villages in North Cotabato are set to receive P1,850,160,000 worth of infrastructure projects from the regional government this year. It was part of MPW appropriations for 2021 worth more

SCENIC VIEW. Mt. Matutum seen behind the still and pensive waters of Lake Buluan, the third largest lake in Mindanao, as photographed from its shore on the Lutayan side by birdwatchers, creates an utterly scenic view.

Photo courtesy of Allan Barredo

100 TREES FOR TATAY. Volunteers plant 100 jackfruit trees to celebrate the 100th birthday of Serafin Ramos, Sr., an Ilocano settler from Pangasinan province, in Maitum, Sarangani on Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Beth Ramos

LOST SPECIES NOW FOUND. The Allah Valley Watershed Forest Reserve in Banga, South Cotabato recently rediscovered the Guttman’s Stream Frog (Pulchrana guttmani), thought to be extinct since its discovery in 1993.

Photo courtesy of Beth Ramos

IRD: Living to the Call of the Mission IP Ministry

BY FR. ROCK SANIEL, OMI / SR. SCHOLA MUTUA, RNDM

The Oblate Missionary Foundation - Interreligious Dialogue (OMI-IRD) ministry of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate is one of the pioneering ministries when it comes to social action, dialogue, and building peace and development. It is a non-profit, churchbased organization based in Notre Dame Drive, Poblacion, Pikit, North Cotabato, Philippines. Living the Vision-Mission of the congregation, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate continues to immerse themselves to the lives of the people, especially to the poor and marginalized, and those affected by conflicts. Through dialogue with peoples of different cultures, the IRD ministry continues to work for an integral transformation of the society, safeguarding human dignity, promoting culture of peace and responds to the call of justice and integrity of creation. Due to the war in Pikit, North Cotabato in 1998, the IRD started as an emergency and relief operation program, assisting in the rehabilitation and the safety and welfare of the war-torn families, Muslims, Christians and the Indigenous Peoples. In year 2000, it was put under the umbrella of Oblate Missionary Fund (OMF), the OMI foundation created to serve and support the mission of the congregation. And since that time, the OMF-IRD ministry was created. It was Fr. Bert Layson, OMI who became the first director of IRD ministry assigned in Pikit, North Cotabato. Fr. Bert Layson, OMI, and Fr. Eduardo Vasquez, OMI, the I-watch director worked together for some time since

takes Center Stage

Our little secret

PART 3

did you know?

By Fr. Eliseo Mercado, OMI

February fluctuates between having 28 and 29 days per year. The 29th day only occurs every 4 years during leap years. The length of February was finalized when Julius Caesar remade the Roman calendar and assigned the month 28 days and 29 days. In 713 B.C., February was officially added to the Roman calendar. Birthstone: amethyst

Public warned versus BIFF terror

BY JOHN FELIX UNSON

The Army's 6th Infantry Division has urged the public to be watchful against possible terror acts by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters to create the impression that the surrender of many members recently has no effect on the group at all. More than 70 BIFF members have surrendered to units of the 6th ID since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. The 6th ID's warning on possible BIFF attacks was raised after last week's foiled roadside bombing in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao. The improvised explosive device, rigged with a blasting contraption that can be detonated from a distance, was fashioned from an 81 mm mortar round and two anti-tank rockets.

Flower: primrose

LDS Guv supports BARMM extension

BY NASH B. MAULANA

LANAO del Sur Governor has reaffirmed his earlier commitment to support the proposed extension of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) when he met Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim in the city on Thursday afternoon. The meeting was not made open to the media due to strict compliance with minimum health standards. But it was confirmed by the governor’s younger brother in the BTA, Member of Parliament Zia Alondo Adiong. Earlier, Governor Adiong was quoted in Northern Mindanao as having requested for a meeting of governors of the five provinces of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in Cagayan de Oro last weekend. MP Adiong said his brother met the BARMM head Ebrahim to

100 trees for centenarian settler

BY BONG SARMIENTO

MAITUM, Sarangani - 100 trees for a 100-year-old surviving Mindanao settler. This town on Wednesday, 24 February, celebrated the birthday of centenarian Serafin Ramos Sr. by planting 100 langka or jackfruit trees at Bacarri Bakir, the family-owned farm in Purok Bugo, Barangay Malalag here. Fondly called “Apin” by family and friends, Ramos Sr. and his wife Cresilda, braved the rough seas and sailed with hundreds of residents from Luzon in 1950 to find greener pastures in Mindanao, touted as the “Land of Promise.” With their few belongings tucked in a kaban or baul (wooden chest), his violin and one peso and 50 centavos in their purse, the couple and several other survivors of the dangerous sea voyage eventually settled in Maitum, a rustic coastal town where the Metal Age anthropomorphic secondary burial jars was discovered in 1991. He was then 30. She was 24 and pregnant. They hailed from Agno, Pangasinan. To remind them of the harsh ocean voyage from Luzon passing through the Visayas and ending in Mindanao, they named their first-born Luzviminda, now 71. Their three other children are Beth, Nieda and Serafin Jr., who are professionals in various fields, unlike the parents who had not gone even to Grade One. As a tribute to an inspirational old man who was a product of “University of Hard Knocks” or the “University of

New IMT-Malaysian team arriving soon

The head of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team bade goodbye Wednesday to the Western Mindanao Command following

NEW CONTINGENT. The Western Mindanao Command gave military honors Wednesday to Malaysian Major Gen. Dato Hadji Muhammad Anwar Bin Abdullah. Photo courtesy of WestMinCom

Maj. Gen. Dato Hadji Muhammad Anwar Bin Abdullah of the Malaysian Royal Armed Forces had also personally thanked WestMinCom’s commander, Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., for supporting their peacekeeping efforts in southern provinces covered by the current peace overture of Malacañang and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Anwar is head of the IMT’s outgoing Malaysian contingent. The Malaysian contingent in the IMT changes command yearly

every March since 2004, replaced with a new mission head and support personnel. Malaysia helped facilitate the peace talks between Malacañang and the MILF that resulted in the replacement two years ago of the then Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with a more politically and administratively empowered Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, most known as the BARMM. BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim is the MILF

central committee chair. Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, BARMM spokesperson regional local government minister, said Thursday they are grateful to Malaysia for its continuing support to efforts of putting diplomatic closure to the nagging Moro secessionist strife in southern Mindanao. “We are also thankful to the other nations involved in the operation of the IMT,” Sinarimbo said. The IMT is composed of soldiers and policemen from Malaysia, Brunei, Philippines, nonuniformed socio-economic strategists from Japan and an international human rights expert from the European Union. Anwar said the Malaysian government will soon announce the names of the incoming IMT mission head and the members of the new group from their Armed Forces arriving to replace

him and his subordinates. “With the support of the WestMinCom under the leadership of Lt. Gen. Vinluan, my mission here was a success. I hope that you also give your full support to the next head of (IMT) mission who will be named anytime soon,” Anwar, of the Malaysian Army, told Vinluan during their meeting at the WestMinCom headquarters in Zamboanga City. The multinational IMT is helping enforce all security agreements between the MILF and the Malacañang. Malaysia was instrumental in the crafting by both sides of two peace compacts, the 2012 Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and, subsequently the 2014 Comprehensive A g r e e m e n t o n Bangsamoro, that paved the way for the setting up of the MILF-led BARMM government. John Felix

Unson

Basilan alliance pivots to new opportunities

With its formal institutionalization at the start of 2021, Western Basilan Alliance (WBA), a local government alliance of four municipalities on the western seaboard of Basilan, is pivoting to new opportunities. WBA was formally established on 29 January 2021 with the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the local chief executives of Hadji Muhtamad, Lantawan, Maluso and Sumisip municipalities in a ceremony held at the provincial capitol in Isabela City and witnessed by Basilan Governor Hadjiman Hataman-Salliman. Mayors Nerwelyn Mansul, Nursiyah Ismaell, Hanie Bud, and Jul-adnan Hataman signed the agreement binding their respective local government units to the partnership. With the MOA signed, the alliance can now explore how to harness and protect the myriad of ecosystems straddling the four municipalities. To manage these resources, WBA will leverage primarily on the ridgeto-river-to-reef or 3Rs approach, addressing at the same time key concerns like poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, prosperity, peace, and justice.

The MOA highlights the alliance’s vision for peace and prosperity, establishing WBA as a platform for consultation and development founded on good governance and sustainable economy. The Local Government Code of 1991 states that local government units, through appropriate ordinances, may group themselves, consolidate or coordinate their efforts, services, and resources for purposes commonly beneficial to them. Gov. Hataman-Salliman urged the mayors to move forward and use the alliance to help develop Basilan. “The important thing now is sustainability, giving substance [to WBA], and empowering the people economically, politically, culturally and socially,” he said. Carlos Cavanillas, general coordinator of the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), hailed the institutionalization of WBA, noting that the “success of alliance building requires a deep change of culture of the traditional way of government.” “This kind of efforts requires virtues. Patience to understand and to accept that your efforts need some time to materialize; seriousness to

100 trees for centenarian settler...from P1 Life,” the Ramos family, about 30 volunteers from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, Maitum Advocates for Sustainable Environment and the Philippine National Police Mobile Group detailed in the town planted the jackfruit trees early Wednesday morning. The fruit trees were donated by the Kiamba Sarangani Development Foundation, Inc. through the initiative of the United States-based Carolina Villanueva Peralta. At his dinner party graced by two dozen immediate family members only, Ramos Sr. was clad in an embroidered barong tagalog with shades of violet and in black slacks. They feasted on roasted pig and other dishes. His three cakes bore the figure

February 27, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

100, and were adorned by carpentry tools and a violin. Ramos Sr. was mostly a carpenter but would do other jobs such as farm laborer to raise his children, according Beth, the second of the four children. “He would also help our mother, who passed away in 2010, prepare snack foods that we would sell in the town,” she added. “During his prime days, he was a very family good provider. He would make the night a day so he could provide for our needs,” Beth recalled. Our father raised us with the values of industry, honesty and integrity, she added. When we were growing up, he was a strict disciplinarian -- making us kneel on beans (monggo) with hands spread apart for a period of time whenever

accomplish the commitment; ability to work and decide as a team; and humility to recognize that you are not the only one who is always right. We must understand though that this kind of initiatives should be developed within appropriate climate of peace and safety,” he added. The Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG) through the Modeling Inter-LGU Alliance in Basilan (MILAB) project supported by AECID implemented capacity building activities two years prior in preparation for the institutionalization of WBA as model for participatory development and good governance. Knowledge and skills gained during this period pertain to critical ingredients in building and sustaining interlocal cooperation and the necessary legal, financial, and institutional requirements for operationalizing the alliance. As the WBA is envisioned as a platform for collaborative activities among the four local government units, particularly on coastal and marine development, the MILAB project trained alliance members on resource mapping and various tools, value chain analysis and social enterprise models, among others. IAG

we did naughty things, Beth recalled. Due to old age, Ramos Sr. has a faltering memory since the past decade, but when he is lucid, he still sings his favorite Ilocano love song, the Dungdunguen Kanto (I love you forever), she said. So what’s their father’s secret to longevity? Tatay (father) loves to eat vegetables and does not like foods laced with Monosodium glutamate, popularly known as vetsin in the country, she noted. Serafin Jr., who inherited his father’s penchant for playing the violin, said that a priest came early Wednesday to pray and bless the old man for his centennial birthday. He noted that family members who are not living in the ancestral house were barred from getting close to the patriarch, in line with

the health protocols for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The dining tables were arranged away from each other that we were like clustered as “baryo-baryo” or distinct barangays, Serafin Jr. said. “We are celebrating a great milestone in the family. We love him so much,” the only son of the brood said. Under Republic Act 10868 or the Centenarians Act of 2016, Filipinos who reached 100 years old are entitled to receive P100,000 and a Letter of Felicitation from the President of the Philippines congratulating the celebrant for his or her longevity. Ramos Sr. is the fifth centenarian in Maitum, with three of them gone, data from the local social welfare office said.

UN assures full support for BARMM

A ranking official of the United Nations has assured the Bangsamoro people that the international body is determined to help the Bangsamoro region succeed. Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) spokesperson, said the assurance was given by Gustavo Gonzalez, UN resident coordinator in the Philippines during a meeting of Mindanao Humanitarian Team and the Bangsamoro government officials, “For the United Nations (UN) and international communities in general, the success of the BARMM government’s transition is a priority,” Gonzales told BARMM officials Saturday. He said the UN will further reinforce its presence in the Bangsamoro region by establishing its office in the area, adding that the organization’s assistance in the Philippines is mostly in the BARMM. Earlier, Gonzales sent a message via video conference to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority that resumed its 52nd session on Feb. 17, telling regional lawmakers that the UN is a global community of knowledge

and has participated in hundreds of peace processes. “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,” he told the parliament members. Citing the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic amid the transition, Gustavo said this is the time where the BARMM and UN’s close partnership is ‘fundamental,’ “We need to join our efforts, to make sure that we work together. We need to build coalition, alliances,” Gustavo said, further thanking the Bangsamoro government for its trust and long standing partnership with the UN. BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim extended his gratitude to UN and other partner humanitarian agencies for their “continuing support to the Bangsamoro people before and during this time of calamity.” Ebrahim said despite the pressing problems caused by the pandemic, the BARMM has forged strong partnerships in addressing difficult issues within the core and outside territories of the region. Edwin O.

Fernandez

MOA SIGNING. Western Basilan Alliance signs a Memorandum of Agreement together with the local chief executives of Hadji Muhtamad, Lantawan, Maluso and Sumisip in Basilan. Photo courtesy of IAG Philippines

Public warned versus...from P1 “It was a signature IED of the BIFF. The bombing attempt occurred after seven BIFF members surrendered a week before in another municipality in Maguindanao,” Major Gen. Juvymax Uy of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division told Mindanao Cross early this week. The bomb, placed inside a box, was found by passersby along a stretch of the Cotabato-Isulan Highway in Barangay Satan, Shariff Aguak, enabling bomb experts to promptly deactivate its

detonator attached to a handheld two-way radio. Brig. Gen. Samuel Rodriguez, director of the Police Regional OfficeBangsamoro Autonomous Region, said Sunday the bombing attempt was apparently meant to create the impression that the BIFF is still capable of terror attacks despite the surrender of more than 70 members in the past six months. “We are sure the BIFF was behind that supposed bombing in Shariff Aguak,” Rodriguez said.

IP Ministry takes ...from P4

of a new municipality for the Indigenous Peoples, there also is the call to establish a new Parish. Fr. Yves Caroff and the MCJ Sisters were the pioneers in the Timanan Mission with Kaos as a pilot center for “reforestation” and primary health care. Sad to say as in other places, the settlers soon became the majority population in the area with the IP’s being pushed to the interior of the forest. Also in the 90’s, a new mission was opened in the Province of Cotabato – the Langgal Mission (Municipality of Matalam) consisting of an elementary school for the

IP’s and a health center. Fr. Lenzen pioneered this work. The school survives through assistance coming from Charis Foundation of Canada. S l ow l y b u t s u r e l y, the IP ministry in the OMI Philippine Province is becoming a priority both in the letter of mission statements and actual investment of personnel and resources. It still remains to be seen whether a day shall come when the IP work and Ministry truly take CENTER stage in the OMI Mission Priorities. (The 4th article is on the present OMI Work among the IPs.)

February 27, 2021

Tagle gets another...from P4 In July 2020, he was also named member of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. At present, Tagle has

been serving his second and last term as president of Caritas Internationalis, a confederation of Catholic charities around the world.

reaffirm his support for the extension of the three-year BTA term. Similarly, a proposed extension has earlier been sought by the Provincial Board of Maguindanao, the League of Municipalities of the Philippines TawiTawi Chapter, and the Civil Society Organization Mindanao People’s Caucus (MPC). The office of Ebrahim said the two leaders have not issued a statement on the unscheduled cordial holiday meeting on February 25, the 31st Edsa 1 Anniversary. The younger Adiong noted that the governor “rigorously campaigned for the ratification of Republic Act 11054,” the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in 2019. MP Adiong said 98

percent of Lanao del Sur’s voting population delivered the affirmative votes that ratified the BOL during the January 2019 plebiscite in five provinces that now constitute BARMM’s basic territory.

LDS Guv supports...from P1

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT 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

PMARK Pawnshop Main Branch ng S.K. Pendatun Avenue, Cotabato City, PMARK Branch I - Parang, Maguindanao, at PMARK Branch II - Supermarket Site, Cotabato City ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay yaon pang isinangla magmula pa noong Setyembre 2020. Ang Subasta ay sa March 01, 2021 sa ganap na ika 9:00 ng umaga hanggang 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar. MC: Feb. 27, 2021

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.

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

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

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.

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

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 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 CITY GOVERNMENT OF COTABATO Region XII OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

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

MC: Feb. 20 & 27. 2021

Patalastas ng Subasta

AFFIDAVIT OF SELF ADJUDICATION

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION

Municipal Civil Registrar

PMARK PAWNSHOP MAIN, PMARK PAWNSHOP - BRANCH I & PMARK PAWNSHOP BRANCH II

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION

(Sgd) LESAIDA O. SABAN

THE MINDANAO CROSS

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. (Sgd) Tohamy M. Lauban Registration Officer

MC: Feb. 20 & 27. 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

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

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

SULTAN PAWNSHOP

corner Bonifacio and Don Rufino Alonzo Sts., Cotabato City

Ang Sultan Pawnshop ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla noong 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

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.

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. 20, 27 & Mar. 6 , 2021

MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 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

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT 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 MC: Feb. 13, 20 & 27. 2021

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. 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

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 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 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

February 27, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Tagle gets another Vatican post Pope Francis on Monday has given Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, an additional role in the Roman Curia.

NEW ASSIGNMENT. Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle is now member of Administration of the Patrimony of the Holy See. CBCP

Tagle was appointed by the pope as a member of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA), which operates like the Vatican’s central bank. Also appointed to the body as member is

Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. APSA acts as the equivalent of a treasury and also oversees real estate holdings and other sovereign assets. Currently headed by Italian Bishop Nunzio Galantino, the office also administers payroll and operating expenses for Vatican City. APSA has around a hundred employees and collaborators, and a commission of eight cardinals who work alongside the president. Pope Francis has recently brought under the control of APSA the

financial investments and real estate holdings owned by the Secretariat of State — the central administration of the Vatican. Tagle has been in the Vatican since February 2020 when he formally assumed his post as head of Propaganda Fide. I n May 2 0 2 0, the pontiff elevated him to the order of “cardinal bishops,” the highest rank within the College of Cardinals. It is from the ranks of cardinal bishops that the Dean of Cardinals is elected. The dean presides at the conclave in case of “sede vacante,” a period when there is no pope.

Sunday 21 February at the Angelus, "the Holy Spirit drives us too, like Jesus, into the desert. It is not…a physical place, but rather an existential dimension in which we can be silent and listen to the word of God”.

“Tuning in” to the Gospel frequencies In his General Audience of 26 February 2020, Pope Francis affirmed, "Lent is a favourable time to make room for the Word of God. It is the time to switch off the television and open the Bible. It is the time to separate from mobile phones and connect to the Gospel". He explained, "When I was a child there was no television but there was the habit of not listening to the radio. Lent is a desert. It is a time to give up something, to distance ourselves from mobiles and connect to the Gospel. It is the time to give up useless words, gossip and slander and to talk to and be informal with the Lord. It is the time to dedicate ourselves to a healthy ecology of the heart, to cleanse it.” Amedeo Lomonaco/

Lent: A time for renewing faith, hope and love

"Lent is a time for believing, for welcoming God into our lives and allowing Him to ‘make his dwelling’ among us", the Pope writes in his Lenten message for 2021. “In our Lenten journey towards Easter, let us remember the One who ‘humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross’”. These words from the Pope’s message not only refer to the memorial dimension of remembrance, but also invite us to live, even today, a favorable time to renew faith, hope and charity. All are called to grow "in the realization that, in Jesus Christ, we are witnesses of new times, in which God is ‘making all things new’". Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has often described the meaning of the journey that leads to Easter. "During the Season of Lent", he said

The core of the Lenten journey "Lent", the Pope explained in his homily during the Ash Wednesday Mass celebrated in St. Peter's Basilica on February 17, "is a journey that involves our whole life, our entire being. It is a time to reconsider the path we are taking, to find the route that leads us home and to rediscover our profound relationship with God, on whom everything depends. Lent is not just about the little sacrifices we make, but about discerning where our hearts are directed. This is the core of Lent”.

Vatican News

IP Ministry takes Center Stage (part 3)

By Fr. Jun Mercado, OMI The new millennium offers deeper reflection on the lot of the Indigenous Peoples worldwide. This deeper reflection opens the memory of historical wrong and wounds inflicted on the native peoples prior to colonialism. Worldwide, the native peoples of the lands fell victims to thievery by the colonials not only of their lands but also of their culture and identity. There is a loud cry to rectify the wrong and heal the wounds. Governments like Australia and Canada made apology to the injustice done to the Aborigines and the first nations. Similarly Churches – the Catholic Church and the Churches of Reform – made similar gestures of apology and resolve to amend for the wrong. Governments and Churches have recognized this wrong and injustice and they move towards the healing the wounds that continue to pester relationships between the IP’s and the majority population. In the same vein, the United Nations came out with the Declaration on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples or UNDRP on the 13th September 2007. At least in paper and in official state policy of practically all states that are members of the United Nations recognize and resolve to respect the IPs right to equality and to be different free from any form of discrimination. The Declaration also affirms the rights of the IP’s to their lands and self-determination in their affairs. In the Philippines, particularly in the Cordillera

n the Christian tradition worker who risks being Lent is a season of infected by dreaded diseases sacrifice. We are sacrifices for the sake of her challenged to make some patient and those she cares personal sacrifices during for . A social activist makes this season as our way of a sacrifice for the sake of the uniting ourselves with the poor and the oppressed at sacrifice of Jesus on Calvary. the risk of being red-tagged. Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC The readings of the mass Just this week we recall tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com this Sunday are all about the sacrifices of those who sacrifice. In the first reading resisted the Martial law Abraham was tested by God to offer his son Isaac as a regime that culminated at EDSA and the restoration sacrifice. This was not a rarity during that time. Many of democracy. tribes were offering human sacrifices to propitiate their It is a truism that we cannot gain anything of value many gods. At the last moment, God stopped Abraham unless we make sacrifices. I learned this as I entered a from sacrificing Isaac (cf. Gen. 22). The descendants of physical fitness gym in my younger years. Prominently Abraham would no longer follow the practices of the displayed by the door is the sign that says, “No pain, pagan tribes around them. no gain.” In deed in the first week, there was so much In the second reading, St. Paul reminded the pain as we built up unused muscles. We cannot have the Romans of the great sacrifice that God the Father made fruits if we do not take care of the roots. Planting and who “did not spare His own son but handed Him for us preparations precede the harvest. It is the law of nature. all” (Rom. 8:31) Jesus is God’s beloved Son as shown in Why did Jesus die on the cross? It was God’s own the gospel story of the Transfiguration. A cloud came way of restoring us to Himself. Sin breaks up our over Peter, James, and John on the mountain of the relationship with God. Sin offends the Divine. It needs transfiguration and a voice said, “This is my beloved a Divine offering to make up for our sins. Jesus being Son, listen to him” (Mk. 9:7). The transfiguration was both human and divine takes up our wounded human a prelude to the Passion of Jesus. Jesus predicted his nature so that we may be divinized. Every time the own death in the hands of the authorities. In spite of celebrant mixes the water and wine at the Offertory this, Jesus proceeded on his journey to Jerusalem, the of the mass, he says silently, “By the mingling of this place of his passion. Three mountains are featured in water and wine, may we come to share in the divinity these readings: Mount Moriah, site of the sacrifice of of Christ who humbled Himself to share our humanity.” Isaac, Mount Tabor of the Transfiguration, and Mount This is sacrifice. Calvary, the place of the crucifixion. These places were During Lent, choose a sacrifice that you can made holy by sacrifice. privately make and offer it for any of the following To sacrifice is to make sacred - from the Latin intentions: for the conversion of a sinner, for the sacri-facere. A sacrificial act becomes a holy act. It is healing of someone sick, for the suffering souls in in the nature of a true sacrifice to take what is precious purgatory, for the restoration of a broken relationship, and offer it for the sake of God or of another person. A and many more. Sacrifices do not go to waste. mother who sacrifices as she wakes up at any time of Somehow, somewhere your Lenten sacrifice benefits the night to care for a sick child is giving up her comfort, someone. We unite ourselves with the redemptive cross convenience, and self. A father who works in the heat of Christ, as we pray, “We adore you O Christ and of the desert and in a strange foreign environment we bless you, Because by your holy cross you have sacrifices for the sake of his loved ones. A health redeemed the word.” MC

Sacrifice

REFLECTIONS

and BARMM, both the UNDRIP and the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act or IPRA remain letters of the Law and National Policy. The IP’s await stronger and empowered National Commission on the Indigenous Peoples or NCIP to CHAMPION and become ACTIVE in the protection and promotion of the IP’s rights already affirmed in the law of the land and in the United Nations. Beginning in the 90’s and unto the new millennium, the OMI Philippine Province has made declarations and statements in their vision and mission to prioritize presence and wor k among the Indigenous Peoples. Pioneers in this renewed call to work among the IP’s are Fr. Richard Weixelman, Br. Mauricio Zuyco and Fr. Rafael Tianero in the mountains of Kulaman now known as Ninoy Aquino Municipality. The Kulaman Mountains and Valleys are typical examples how the lowland settlers (Christians) had pushed the IP’s to the interior of the mountains and with its dwindling forest. In most cases the ancestral domain of the Indigenous peoples have been titled to settlers and/or given by government to big corporation like the Consunji and Sons under the Integrated Forest Management Agreement or IFMA. The Oblates, while continuing to minister to the growing pastoral needs of the settlers that have become the dominant population in the Kulaman Valley, continue to work on the IP ministry. The work in

Laguton and neighboring IP communities speak of presence and journey with the IP’s, particularly in health and agriculture. Similar work is done in the field of formal education. The establishment of the Mission Sc hool, Notre Dame of Kulaman, is intended to “mainstream” the Manobos into the formal educational system. This program is designed to empower the IP’s through education. Fr. Raffy Tianero, who was one of the early pioneers in the IP work in Kulaman, was able to master the Manobo Language and he came out with the narratives of their identity, cultures and struggles. His research on the Dulangan Manobos of Kulaman is a must read for any one venturing to be with the Manobos. In nearby area, still in the mountains and valleys of Kulaman with Langgal as Center, Fr. Michel Lenzen e m b a r ke d o n h e a l t h programs for the Manabos. With degrees both in Medicine and Chemistry, he established a decent clinic and laboratory in Langgal with special focus on skin illnesses in the mountains. He would hike and visit IP communities treating all sort of illnesses – from malaria, TB, diarrhea to all sort of skin deceases. On the other side of the Kulaman Mountains is the Upi Mountain or popularly known as the Timanan Valley. Government divided Upi into North and South – the former with settlers as majority and the latter for the IP’s. With the establishment

B adaliyya Fr. Jun Mercado, OMI

Short Reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Lent (B) Readings:

Genesis 22: 1-2. 9. 10-11; Romans 8: 31-34; Mark 9: 2-10

Selected Passage:

“And Jesus was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them.” (Mk. 9: 2-3)

Meditation:

Lent is a special season to have an “experience” of our own TRANSFIGURATION” or “metamorphosis” (the Greek word for Tansfiguration). We have to be transformed from our old ways to new ways in Christ. Often this transformation is characterized by (1) return to the Lord or penance; (2) prayers & fasting; and (3) almsgiving. Cf.

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…

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 27, 2021 EDITORIAL

Servant-leaders in government

hy do some countries develop faster than the others? Is it the temperature in those countries, its raw materials, or its people? For those who are familiar with the Singapore experience, there was a time in history (when Malaysia was founded) when the small state which started as a British trading post had no raw materials, no land for agriculture, no expertise for industry, and the population had nowhere to go. But its resilient people and leaders chose to gamble with the only asset they have – the port area – a rather small trading post. It was therefore a surprise for the world to see them progress with the small area and insignificant history that they have. Google shows that in 1965, the Republic of Singapore became a fully self-governing, autonomous state. Although it has faced difficulties, including more race riots in 1969 and the East Asian financial crisis of 1997, it has proved to be a stable and prosperous little nation. At present, Singapore is a nation worth visiting and its government is an excellent model for many Asian countries like the Philippines. What is it in the Singapore experience that is worth emulating? Everyone knows that Singapore is founded on the people’s values and character. It was hard to imagine how a mixture of Chinese, British, Tamils, and Malays; who spoke different languages and practice different religions can coexist. It had its share of racial riots but what looms as a dominant factor in its history is the character of its leaders. The leaders are known as strict, disciplined, and committed to the development of their area, and were able to peacefully settle conflicts between the different races. I may be too presumptuous to think that since BARMM is as small as Singapore, it can use the country as a model in its development. But there are aspects in its history that BARMM can learn from. Can BARMM have leaders like Lee Kuan Yew, who put their country’s welfare as a priority in their life? Are there leaders whose promise to serve their countrymen are not just lip service (or are just election promises)? Is the leadership committed to treating all sectors or races without bias and with fairness? It is therefore very important to have leaders who are service-oriented, and live the life of servant-leaders. This is stressed a lot in many discussions of sectoral leadership but most especially in Islam. Probably we have lost track of the nature of government. Everyone knows that the government is for and by the people. But how many knows this by heart? Is the government an instrument to provide services to the population; or is it an instrument to oppress the people who do not share the same goal as the leaders. There may be a lot of good leaders in the present crop of leadership in the BARMM. However, there is always the difficulty of separating the sincere ones from the grand standing ones. This is the reason why many recommended the extension of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, but wants an election to change the present members. This will be a challenge to the BARMM leadership if the people did see some misfits who are now addressed as honourable ministers sitting in the BTA. MC +

he Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Davao Region is reportedly mulling another closure of Mt. Apo to trekkers. In a trail and camp assessment from February 11 to 14, DENR and officials and personnel from Davao del Sur and Davao Oriental noted the non-observance of proper waste disposal along the trails and campsites. Some of the trash the monitoring team found included empty soda bottles, water bottles, and face masks. It also reportedly found Marijuana at the 87-degree trail going to the crater and peak pointing to the possible use of prohibited substances by some trekkers. The team also noticed that there were a lot of trekkers during that time despite rainfalls and strenuous trails. It noted non-observance of InterAgency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases guidelines on social distancing limiting the number of trekkers from 50 to 25 climbers per climb per day. “If left unabated, the closure of Mt. Apo might be possible in the coming days, when necessary, in order to pave the way for the immediate rehabilitation of the Natural Park’s Trails and Campsite,” DENRDavao said in a notice. If ever, this closure would not be the first; neither could it be the last. Year after year it happens. The country’s highest peak plays host to the annual pilgrimage of hardcore mountaineers and casual trekkers seeking to commune with nature during the Holy Week break. Hundreds also join a second climb, aptly called the Octotrek, in October. These trekkers and tourists come bringing in money to the local coffers of Davao City, Davao del Sur, and North Cotabato’s Magpet, Makilala, and Kidapawan City. Many of them also bring in trash. In 2014, we wrote in this same column: “That much can be attested to by the 2.6 tons of tourist garbage collected by volunteers during a three-day clean-up drive jointly organized by the Protected Area Management Board and local government units surrounding the country’s highest peak from various areas around Mt. Apo.” During their climb, the DENR Davao team observed unregulated noise along the trails and camps which could disturb the wildlife and disrupt the serenity of the trekking experience. Imagine what the situation is during the annual Holy Week and October treks. During these times Mt. Apo virtually turns into a buzzing center of activity. The main campsite adjacent to Lake Venado turns into a tent city.

Mt. Apo under threat

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

It is not only trash that irresponsible trekkers leave behind that pose a threat to Mt. Apo. Many still remember the 2016 fire that razed around 115 hectares of forests and grasslands in the area. Authorities were not able to pinpoint a suspect, but it was believed that the fire happened after trekkers left a campfire unattended. Yes. Eco-tourism sadly continues to be ecothrashing as attested by the findings and observations of the DENR Davao assessment climb. This is true not only in Mt. Apo but also in other high-profile ecotourism sites. Now that the quarantine limitations are being relaxed, mainly for purposes of reviving economic activity especially travel and tourism which reportedly had a 24% contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product in 2020, there is reasonable fear that the eco-thrashing will happen again. DENR Davao reminds the public that Mount Apo is an established protected area by virtue of Republic Act 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992 and Republic Act 9237. It line with this it is urging the trekkers to be responsible and follow the guidelines and policies set by the Protected Area Management Board under which the management and regulation of Mt. Apo as a protected area falls. “Otherwise, repercussions will not only entail fines and punishments but also damage to nature. For sure that by now, we have realized that nature’s revenge can be ‘unforgiving’,” the agency said. This continues to be a sad truth. Man, while truly fascinated by the beauty of nature, is often times very irresponsible in his relationship with the rest of creation. Easily, in almost all cases, the basic tenets of dealing with nature is forgotten: take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time. When will we ever learn? When will we ever learn? MC

STADZ SALAMAT HASHIM probably missed his younger years when he’d receive a “yes” answer not to everything he would say--when we met for the first time in 1997 in Tugaig (Barira), months before the launch of the MILF Agenda in Butig, Lanao del Sur that year. I believe there were but very few who had taken up that concern with him in some exclusive dialogue (me as a journalist) to steer the MILF clear of the Nash B. Maulana widespread terror tags then. nash.penlight@gmail.com I was with Kara, the late Inquirer Editor-inChief Letty Magsanoc’s daughter, in my first but rebellion case of Nur Misuari at a review hearing of failed attempt to take the late MILF Chairman into state prosecutors at DoJ). All these were in support an exclusive interview at his Tugaig Residence on to and for the continuance of the Peace Process. On January 20, 2003, Chairman Hashim September 3, 1994. Fast-forward: In 2003, the Philippine Foreign wrote the U.S. Government, seeking to correct a Affairs Department under Secretary Blas F. Ople historic injustice that colonial rules under Spain came up with a list of “local terror groups” for and America had brought to the Moro people. This its U.S. counterpart as a matter of international made the Moro Experience distinct from all other security cooperation via the diplomatic links. Recall narratives of dissidence elsewhere in the world. Now, I have become part of institutionalizing that the Ople List included the CPP-NPA, and the Abu Sayyaf. I could sense that Ople was tempted his legacy in Moro leadership, with the SEAL to include the MILF in his list that he asked then (Salamat Excellence Award in Leadership), Justice Secretary Simeon A. Datumanong about an initiative, a program of the BARMM-MILG the status of cases filed against Moro leaders in under Minister Naguib G. Sinarimbo, recognizing connection with twin bombings in Sasa Wharf performing local leaders in the region. More than recognition to deserving LCEs, and outside the International Airport Terminal in the SEAL Award System is seen here to one day Davao City. Datumanong told Ople that the Department of associate the Moro People with the rest of the Justice was in the mode reviewing the cases at the World in that fine Tradition of “humility”--of level of state prosecutors for probable cause, and recognizing and institutionalizing due recognition that for most of the cases, the state prosecution to achievers among them with all humility without would not oppose to defence’s motions to quash the slightest sense of self-reservation. That fine court arrest warrants to senior MILF officials. The Institutional Tradition has not been in place in the Chief of the Public Attorney’s Office, Datumanong Moro Community for centuries. Awarding in Moro said, upon his instruction, was even representing community has remained culturally ceremonial; it an instant motion in the courts for the dropping of has not evolved into the level of an institutional charges stemming from those earlier incidents in tradition. More than 20 years after he said it, I still find Davao City for which MILF leaders were, as widely believed, falsely charged. That time, some lawyers the words of Atty. Datu Michael O. Mastura hold representing the MNLF also appeared (including true. He once said that we need to learn the virtue Atty. Randolph Parcasio) for the Cabatangan of “humility.” MC

‘SEAL’ in honor of the late MILF founding leader

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.

February 27, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

To God be the glory

Diabetes in the Elderly : To treat or not to treat?

soaring prices of basic commodities, unabated corruption, insurgency and other crimes? What is there in politics that many are out to kill and cheat one another? Charlie Señase And suddenly, we csenase@yahoo.com stumble on the wisdom or our sake, as it is written, we behind “perilous times in are killed all day long and are the last days” when men will be lovers accounted as sheep for slaughter. of themselves and lovers of money. Yet in all these things we are more than And the biblical passage went on to conquerors through Him who loved us. caution us against being proud and Thus, we are persuaded that neither arrogant, blasphemer, disobedient to death, life, angels, principalities, powers, parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, nor things of the present and things to mercy and self-control, brutal, traitor, come, nor height, depth, nor any other bullheaded, haughty and ungodly (2 created thing shall be able to separate us Timothy 3). from the love of God which is in CHRIST In these trying times, friends and JESUS our Lord (Romans 8:36-39). foes alike ask, why always learning but This biblical post came at a time when never able to come to the knowledge of a colleague in the broadcast profession the Truth? And Christ, who’s coming back reportedly had a cardiac arrest. ABS- in God’s time to judge the living and the CBN news anchor Doris Bigornia needs dead said: “I am the Way the Truth and an open-heart surgery. Let’s pray for the Life. No one comes to the Father, her recovery and others with similar except through Me” (John 14:6). unpredictable health condition in the To those who doubt and fear about midst of the still unresolved pandemic life’s threats uncertainties, Christ said: that already took the lives of more “Let not your heart be troubled – Believe than two million in the world with the in God, believe also in Me. For I and My Philippines contributing at least over Father are One, but My Father is greater 12,000. than I” (John 14:1; 10:28-30;). We are all just but temporary beings To wise men and scholars of this for the Almighty God has appointed world, here’s God’s admonition on the death to all, that while alive let’s do never-ending proliferation of books with what’s good and pleasing to Him which much study which is wearisome to the assures life eternal. “God has appointed flesh. a day on which He will judge the world Instead let us know the whole in righteousness by the Man whom He duty of man: “Fear God and keep His has ordained. He has given assurance to commandments, for this is man’s all. For all by raising Him from the dead” (Acts God will bring every work into judgment, 17:31). including every secret thing, whether We may be rich or poor, highly good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:12-14). educated or unschooled, famous or Whoever we are, politicians or not, mediocre and great or small, with the we may have bright ideas, but only God’s LORD salvation is regardless of persons Word is alive, powerful and sharper than for He alone sees the heart of man. any double-edged sword that can pierce God abhors hypocrites as most and divide soul and spirit, joints and of us are appearing clean outside but marrow, and can also discern the thoughts questionable inside especially with all the and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). nice-looking preparations for the coming And again, as it is appointed for men to 2022 political exercises. die once, but after which the judgment People are wondering why spend hoping to end the earthly race with flying so much money and scramble to be colors through God’s grace and mercy. For President or elected officials amid all the with the LORD, the least will be great global woes on health, sluggish economy, and the last will be first. MC

may be a little bit higher than normal. The American Diabetes Association recommends maintaining sugar levels less than 100 mg/dl for known diabetics. Cheridine P. Oro- Josef, M.D., DFM, FPAFP, FPCGM I had several cases cheridinemd@gmail.com admitted in the hospital, of elderly who suffered severe ew years back, I attended a round hypoglycaemia (very low sugar) after table discussion with some Family diligently taking their prescribed meds. Physicians on Early Management Hypoglycemia should be watched out for Diabetes. What the speaker said among our elderly patients. They may really got me to thinking. He said that at not manifest as simple tremors or blood sugar levels greater than 90mg/dL dizziness. My 90 year old patient had (approx 2.5 IU), we should start giving a very good appetite. She even thanked hypoglycemic agents (anti Diabetes me for taking care of her. However, that drugs) to patients. Most of the doctors night her sugar started to fluctuate. I in the group were amused because they told her to discontinue her drugs. Her all have fasting blood glucose levels of sugar dropped down to less than 50 more than 100. What a relief that mine which prompted me to give D50 glucose. then was just 87. She would respond well but after several It is not frequent to see patients with hours, the sugar would drop again. sugar levels less than 90mg/dl. Most I noticed hypoglycemic agents should come in at 100 and above, and for as be used with caution when patients long as it’s not 126 and above, I advise become 60 and above. Their response patients on proper diet, exercise and to these agents is very unpredictable. sugar monitoring. If their levels are 90, Nowadays, when I see my elderly patients I just tell them to maintain their healthy whose children complain that their sugar lifestyle. The rationale for lowering the is high, except when there are other signs normal sugar level, the speaker said, and symptoms, I tell them to observe and was because of the fact that at 90mg/ not to feel alarmed. Monitoring of sugar dl, studies have shown that pancreatic levels is recommended. insufficiency starts to surface, and that For new onset diabetes in the elderly, there is already insulin incapacity and especially those on the heavy side, he challenged us to be very aggressive Metformin is still the drug of choice. This in our treatment. In managing elderly is the oldest and most studied drug for patients however, we should be careful diabetes and has remained to be in the in initiating oral hypoglycaemic agents pipeline. There are newer drugs that are because the elderly are more prone being used now which have less kidney to suffer from very low sugar levels. and liver effects and may be worth trying Besides, the glucose levels of elderly for elderly patients too. MC

functions because stress of all kinds supplies neurons with more blood. 4) You’re a night owl. People who tend to go to bed earlier have higher IQs. Working later or outside the typical nine to five workday Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy allows for more innovation franco1573victoria@gmail.com and creative thought as there are fewer interruptions nce in a while thoughts of inadequacy or demands and different or stupidity enter our minds, expectations. especially when we do something 5) You adapt easily. Being able to see and later realize it could have been done connections or solutions that others can’t. better or another way. Scientists have come New problems and challenges require new, up with a list of what you innately have novel solutions, something smart people that shows you are smarter than you think. and geniuses are comfortable with. Bright, clever, witty and knowledgeable are 6) You have dark sense of humor. If just some ways people define smartness. you appreciate “sick” jokes, you might Defining smartness, as well as genius might be a genius. A dark humor is one that not be clear cut, but overall, most people treats sinister subjects like death, disease, agree that smart people have high level of deformity handicap or warfare with bitter thinking. You could be one of them if these amusement and presents such tragic things apply to you. distressing or morbid topics in humorous 1) You’re the eldest child. You have terms. the mental edge, and tend to have higher 7) You took music lessons as a kid. IQ. Your mother breast fed you, you were Scientists found that kids who took a most welcome and anticipated child, structured music lessons tested higher on your parents offer older kids more mental quizzes for verbal intelligence, planning stimulation. and inhibition. 2) You have anxiety . Geniuses or 8) You are judgmental. Smart people people with higher IQs report more mood may be prone to stereotyping , thanks to and anxiety disorder diagnoses than their ability to detect patterns. the national average. This is because 9) You are messy. geniuses often overthink , have a level of 10) You wear glasses self-perfection and has a more neurotic 11) You prefer to be alone. Researchers reflection. They often suffer and are from Singapore Management University susceptible to social challenges. studied 15,000 people aged 18-24 showed 3) You’re an athlete. There is clear that highly intelligent people were less evidence showing physical activity sharpens happy with their lives the more social the mind and allows for unique connections they were. (From The Healthy, by Emily in concepts and thought. This boost brain DiNuzzo) MC

responsibilities must be exerted. In public service, you cannot have a permanent technical position if you do not possess even the basic skills and the appropriate Civil Service Danny Buenbrazo eligibilities. Promotion to danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com higher positions, especially supervisory or managerial pportunities for professional development, investment, or positions require Civil Service professional personal engagement in a work eligibility, a certain number and type of contract come and go. Often, there is a training, number of years of experience, very short period of time to take advantage and so forth. Opportunities to go into business call of chance to grab the benefits of an for a different set of requirements such as opportunity. It is unlikely that all opportunities amount of capital, access to technology, that come to our attention is suited to knowledge of the market, access to raw our interest and capability. At the onset, materials, availability of workers, among we should be able to quickly recognize others. Real estate opportunities are those opportunities that we should not becoming scarcer as touch because they urbanization increases are not aligned with Getting a position or and population rises. out interest, line of Thus, one should be business, or we would contracts (for work or ready in case a be out of depth if we service) is one thing but good very rate offer for a good real take it. estate comes along. We What are the performance is another. not only have the requirements? How Those that perform well does should capacity to pay for the long do we have to decide or to comply not only get one windfall but land (and the building if there is any) with the requirements? a steady stream of contracts thereon, but also to develop it What and how much is so an income stream the expected gains from in the future. is developed. This does the offer or opportunity? What are the risks involved and the amount not necessary mean that you have the cash of loss we may incur if things do not turn for the land and the cost of development out well? Ideally, we can figure the answers since one can use banks and other lending in our mind or at least can quickly put institutions to stretch the number of years things on paper and determine quickly if for paying for lot acquisition and building the opportunity is suitable and within our construction. Sometimes large institutions look capacity to take advantage of. When the answers are mostly in the for contractors and/or consultants to do negative, let the opportunity pass for now work or perform services that they need but we need to prepare ourselves when one and are willing to pay huge sums for it. In comes up again in the future, assuming it these instances, we should have a legally is something that is attractive and worth registered business entity, sufficient capitalization, qualified personnel, pursuing. Different types of opportunities require appropriate equipment and/or tools, among different preparations on our part. We just others. A good track record of performance need prepare for each and every break that for the works or services demanded is also a huge advantage. comes along that we would like to grab. Getting a position or contracts (for work For example, if we would like to work for professional advancement or service) is one thing but good performance through promotion or transfer to a is another. Those that perform well does different organization, effort to increase not only get one windfall but a steady our knowledge and skill for higher stream of contracts in the future. MC

True to Form

What makes you smarter than you think?

The Stuff of Life

Golden Threads

To Catch Passing Opportunities….

Market Driven

THE MINDANAO CROSS

February 27, 2021

BARMM OKs civil service code...from P1 the Bangsamoro Civil Service Code of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).” No one among legislators has voted against nor abstained on the approval of the bill. It was filed in the plenary on July 21, 2020. After series of extensive consultations with various stakeholders, said code was finally presented on July 08, 2020 to the cabinet members of the Bangsamoro government with the presence of Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim. On November 09, 2020, BTA has begun the consultations for the proposed BCSC.

Committee chairperson and MP Raissa Jajurie said earlier that consultations were meant to “gather comments, position papers, and issues on the code that will come from our resource persons, and we will present it to the committee on rules for deliberation.” “BCSC hopes to provide an effective instrument for good governance and responsive policies on human resource administration of the Bangsamoro Government while addressing the legitimate needs and peculiarities of our people,” MP Aida Silongan, committee vice chair, said. The BCSC was among the priority

legislations the parliament needs to pass within the transition period as clearly specified in the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). The BOL mandates Bangsamoro government to enact a civil service law provided that it shall be in accordance with existing national laws. Meanwhile, the Bangsamoro Civil Service Code shall take effect 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation or within the BARMM. To date, the BTA has approved 17 Bangsamoro Autonomy Acts (BAA). in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).”

IRD: Living to the Call of the Mission...from P1 2000, followed by Fr. Jonathan Domingo, OMI and the late Fr. Pol Yazar, OMI. At present, Fr. Layson is the IRD director together with Sr. Schola Mutua, RNDM. The OMI IRD ministry promoted the four forms of dialogue: the dialogue of life, dialogue of action, dialogue of words, and dialogue of religious experience. All the activities and programs of the ministry are anchored in these four forms of dialogue. These are many activities present in the

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ATING GLANG who died intestate on March 30, 1994 at Cotabato City, consisting of one parcel of land described in TCT No. T-21084 with an area of 594 square meters, situated at San Isidro, Cotabato City, was the subject of an extrajudicial settlement of the intestate of the deceased Ating Glang with special power of attorney executed by the heirs before Notary Public Renato M. Eugenio of Cotabato City on January 9, 2014, per his Notarial Register known as Doc. No. 215, Page No. 44, Book No. 165, Series of 2014. MC: Feb. 27, Mar. 6 & 13, 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

IRD ministry. One is on peace education, where they give trainings, and culture of peace seminars. Likewise, the IRD ministry promotes solidarity activities with Muslims and Indigenous Peoples in several activities. In particular, they join in the (Duyog) Ramadhan with the Muslims, the Pasko and fiesta with the Christians, and Samahan with the Indigenous Peoples. During Ramadhan, Christians cook and share foods with the Mulsims. And in that celebration, an Imam or Ustadz (Muslim religious leader) is invited to share the meaning and importance of Ramadhan to the Christians. Likewise, during Fiesta and Pasko, a lay minister or priest is invited to share also why the Christians celebrate these activities. And in return, Christians share food with the Muslims during those days of celebration. Moreover, the IRD also focuses on youth formation program among the Muslims and Christians. They organize communities, provide leadership skills

training to empower the youth in taking part in the process of building relationships and dialogue. Livelihood and valuesformation programs are also provided for the women. With the pandemic, the IRD provides sustainable programs such as distribution of goods to selected women in different barangays. When the goat gives birth, the kid is given to another woman recipient. This employs the repayment system which develops responsibility and trust in the community. Also, there is distribution of vegetable seeds and tools to help the families in their daily labor and food supply. In this way, the relationship between Muslims, Christians, and the Indigenous Peoples is being strengthened. Other programs such as wash-water sanitation, construction of hand pumps to provide safe drinking water to the communities, and environmental care trainings for climate change, waste management and planting trees are also provided and monitored by

the said ministry. These are concrete programs which the IRD deemed important in promoting peace and dialogue with peoples of different faith and religion. Through these programs, relationships are built, prejudices and biases are addressed, and communities are being rebuilt with respect of other’s culture, tribe and custom. For many years, the IRD team have established relationship in these communities through the four forms of dialogue. In the end, the OMI IRD ministry’s success and mission are not possible without the different stakeholders who continues to support the ministry. T h o u g h t h e collaborative efforts among the Muslim, Christian and Indigenous Peoples communities, NGOs, the barangay captains, LGUs, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Health, among others, IRD ministry remains confident that peace is possible.

BARMM allots P1.8B development projects ...from P1 EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late SPOUSES BENIGNO ERAMIS and DIONISIA CAMPOSO, who died on January 20, 1995 and October 16, 2001, respectively at Midsayap, Cotabato, a parcel of land HV-22872, Lot No. 738, Pls-134, situated at Bulanan, Midsayap, Cotabato, covered by OCT V-2459, with an area of 68,068 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of an extrajudicial settlement and partition of estate before Notary Public John Haye C. Deluvio as per Doc. No. 144; Page No. 29; Book No. LXXXIV; Series of 2020. MC: Feb. 27, Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late SPOUSES MARIANO G. RAGONTON and JULIETA TUASON RAGONTON , who died intestate on January 28, 2005 and June 27, 2007, respectively at Midsayap, Cotabato, a parcel of land Lot No. 25, Pls-134, situated at Baguer, Midsayap (now Ulamian, Libungan), Cotabato, covered by OCT No. V-1976, with an area of 82,997 sq. mts., more or less, is the subject of an extrajudicial settlement with waiver and partition of estate before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 353; Page No. 71; Book No. CCXVI; Series of 2021. MC: Feb. 27, Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

than P15 billion. In a statement, Guerra said the projects would usher in development to the “opt-in areas” and would boost its economic activities. “These projects will stimulate economic activities in the areas, and will also improve people’s access to social services,” Guerra said in a statement released by BARMM government. The new geographical areas of BARMM include the 63 barangays from North Cotabato province and the city of Cotabato that opted to be part of the region during a plebiscite in 2019. The supervision of the areas was turned over to the Bangsamoro Government in late 2020. Guerra said 63 road projects, three bridge projects, and a slope protection project all worth PHP1.48 billion will be AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION

Notice is hereby given that the late MR. ABDUL R. SAHRIN, who died on January 20, 2021 at Zamboanga City, left a Savings Account at Land Bank of the PhilippinesCotabato Branch under Account No. 0377 1979 17 is the subject of an affidavit of adjudication with waiver of rights before Notary Public Atty. Hisham Nazz Ala Biruar, CPA, as per Doc. No. 381; Page No. 77; Book No. VIII; Series of 2021.

MC: Feb. 27, Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

constructed in the North Cotabato barangays. The town of Pikit will receive the biggest budget of P445-million for 22 road projects; followed by Pigcawayan with P298.96million comprising of 12 road projects worth P231.96-million, a bridge project worth P60-million, and a slope protection project worth P7 million; and Kabacan with P279.2million for seven road projects worth P259.2million and a bridge project worth P20-million. The towns of Midsayap, Carmen, and Aleosan will receive infrastructure projects this year worth P217-million, P208million, and P32-million, respectively. On the other hand, Cotabato City is set to receive this year P370million pesos worth of road and other public works in all of its 37 barangays. It shall be subject to the assessment and result of completed pre-engineering activities, submission of common engineering documents, and approval by Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim. The amount shall be charged from MPW’s contingent fund. Guerra said the construction of these projects is part of MPW’s vision of increasing strategic and climateresilient infrastructure to support sustainable socioeconomic development in the Bangsamoro Region.

O CENTS TWO Our little secret

BY *VS

o preface, I’d like you to know that I’m a goddess with a silver heart and a rusty brain. I hope you have a clear picture of me before we begin this story. By the way, this isn’t a fairytale but let’s keep our fingers crossed to that ‘happy ever after’. On April 11, 2019, just nine days after I arrived in the United Kingdom, I met ‘P’ and two other Filipino nurses. She has a pretty nice smile. Her physique was a bit of an endomorph. She has brown skin, black long hair and wears glasses. Obviously, not much of a head turner, but turned my life upside down. We instantly got along and agreed to most things. It’s like telepathy, but not literally. Our eyes converse discreetly and we would often laugh in sync. We both have identical ideas, opinions, and answers. We’re like B1 and B2, it’s bananas! Surprisingly, we share the same quirks and mannerisms too. Our love for dogs made us even closer. We’re like two peas in a pod. She’s my nemesis. At times, our kind of play is extremely harsh and loud. We were each other’s sandbags. We’d Kung Fu and kickbox each other. Sometimes we’d get bruises and complaints from our elders. But that was fun though. We also have a habit of contradicting each other. Oftentimes it would escalate into a heated argument to a full-blown fight. Never a day goes by that we would not annoy and irritate each other. As days go by, it felt suddenly weird. I’m beginning to feel jealousy. I told myself ‘I shouldn’t feel this way’ multiple times. I’m confused and got a lot of questions in my mind. I certainly knew what I am and what I’m not; or I guess not. I tried shrugging this feeling off but so far, it hasn’t worked out. I knew something has changed. Where will this take me to? Cause I can’t grasp my judgment nor you How will I withstand this baffled hue? When all this time I tried, it grew. Just being with her feels liberating and comfortable. Sometimes when our duty schedules matched, we would wait for each other’s shift to end and walk home together. Then we’d share a bunch of stories and laughter along the way. We were best buddies. We’d do everything together. From breakfast to dinner to that late night movie marathon and 3 am conversations. I’d cook every dish she had requested. I always made sure she won’t die from hunger. It did not matter to me that it’s my first time trying out the menu. Just hearing her say ‘It’s delicious’ made me grin from ear to ear. But things weren’t always smooth. Our friends decided to renew their contracts. So, we planned our next move. I decided to rely my decision solely on her. I would renew my contract only if she does and won’t if she decided not. We ended up finalizing our exit papers and then… COVID-19 knocked us back into our beds. It’s a desperate time for most of us. The world is in chaos and our sanity is at stake. Time flew, we got stuck in lockdown and problems aroused. Two months together in lockdown and there’s nothing much to do. We spent most of our time on movies, cooking experiments and sleep overs. We were slowly becoming couch potatoes. Until one day, I caught ‘P’ blankly staring at the ceiling as if she was daydreaming. Out of the blue, she asked for a kiss. I was flabbergasted. I resisted. I haven’t been kissed, especially by another woman. I’m reserving it for ‘the one’. But I was reminded that our lips are just part of the skin, nothing special. So, I gave in. We kissed – a smack. Next thing I knew, we were a thing. I don’t know what has got into me or what it is in her that I absolutely fell. I tried holding back, but she kept pulling me closer. I know there are infinite things beyond our understanding. But I’ll just go with the flow, be at the moment and savor this new relationship. Life is so unpredictable. To be honest, I used to be one of those who gossip about people on same sex relationship. I don’t think low of them. I have nothing against homosexuality. In fact, I’ve got a lot of gay friends. I am not just into it. It used to be a great deal of an issue when I see someone who used to be straight and then entered into that kind of relationship. It’s not them, it’s me. I am the problem. Yet everything changed when I met her. I can now see clearly the reasons behind it. When I am with her, it’s a totally different world. It’s as if we’re the only women existing and nothing matters but us. I stepped out of my comfort zone but I absolutely found peace and solace in it. I thought of love as nothing more than just a mere rage of hormones but when I was taken on that spot, I’m out of words. Now, I can say I understand the impact of love. You just can’t dictate and stop your feelings towards a person. I believe what’s vital is that we know how to love genuinely and respect one another equally. Love is love, it knows no age, race, social status, and gender. We are both back in the Philippines now. Long distance relationships are quite tough, considering ours is still a secret. Entering an odd love affair made it even difficult to explain to everyone. I’m still afraid of the judgments, of the criticisms, and of the rejection. I’m looking forward to what’s in store for the both of us. Right now, I’ll let it be. I am incredibly happy. I am. And I’ll see you soon langga! *VS is a registered nurse and a former overseas Filipino worker; she is currently unemployed due to a global pandemic. Her real name has been changed to protect her identity and privacy.

February 27, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Sanduguan Mindanaw is the public journalism page of The Mindanao Cross. It comes out every last Saturday of the month. The stories covered in Sanduguan are selected by the staff based on the criteria that these are the issues that matter most to the communities in the BARMM and Central Mindanao; that these stories educate, explain, empower, and help readers understand what is happening around them; and at the same time enabling them to be advocates for change. The name of the section connotes ONE BLOOD for peace.

COVID-19 VACCINE: GROWING PAINS We've been at the forefront of the battle of the unknown for what seems like forever now. Social distancing, shutdowns, closures, and cancellations are the new norm. But while we’re not out of the woods yet, there is a sliver of light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the dreaded novel coronavirus pandemic. The race to develop a COVID-19 vaccine to protect people from the infection is now well underway, and gaining ground by the day. To date, there are now more than 150 vaccines under development from governments, nonprofits, and private companies all over the world. Several are in stages of human clinical trials.

The Philippine government recently approved and ratified its official deployment and vaccination plan as part of the nationwide immunization drive. While many pandemic-weary Filipinos are steadfast, nearly half remains vaccine-averse. According to a survey by pollster Pulse Asia, only a third of 2,400 Filipino adults polled said they are willing to be vaccinated, while 21% couldn’t say yet if they want to be inoculated. Of those who don’t want to get the vaccine, 84% said they are “not sure of its safety.” Officials, however, announced the delivery of the country’s first batch of vaccines could be expected by mid-February. We are now entering March. With that timeline looking less likely to be met, we’re putting the focus on the people's response.

This week, The Mindanao Cross takes a closer look as to whether Cotabateños are willing to be vaccinated.

Anna Nicole Pauline

Jerem Hindi ako magpapa-vaccine. In this poor country with so many corrupt politicians, I trust my immune system more than a vaccine. Our government must be responsible in providing best possible options to Filipinos.

Kung ang gagamitin na vaccine is yung Chinese brand, ayaw ko po magpaturok. Baka pagkatapos, maging Chinese na ang language ko. And based sa news, di naman daw 'yon effective pero mura. Bahala na mahal, basta sigurado.

Henry

Syempre magpapabakuna ako. Lahat ng pwede gawin para di lang magka-covid, gagawin ko. Kaya suggestion ko lang na sana gawing live sa publiko ang pagpapabakuna para maniwala at makita ng buong sambayanan baka siguro magapabakuna ang mga tao sa inyo.

Vina As a health care personnel, papayag ako magpa-vaccine pero depend sa brand. Kung ang gagamitin na vaccine is from China, thanks but no thanks. Hindi ako papayag. Pero kung Pfizer or AstraZeneca, okay pa siguro.

Romer Maribel

Right now, medyo skeptic ako sa vaccine na sinasabi ng gobyerno. Our leaders should consider the efficacy of the following vaccines before they roll them out into the public: Pfizer-BioNTech 95%, AstraZeneca 90%, Moderna 89%, Sinopharm 79%, and Sinovac 50.38%. The choice on what type of vaccines should be based on effectiveness and safety of the Filipino people, instead of political considerations or preferences.

Depende po sa uri ng vaccine or sa brand. Kasi ako I believe we have the right to choose what vaccine we want. It is not being choosy. Our life and health are on the line. We have the right to choose for our own safety and health.

Farouk We need more clarity about the vaccine and as to why they chose to delay other brands but prioritize Sinovac. Dahil ba gusto nila iappease ang China? Parang hindi naman mahalaga ang efficacy ng Sinovac, basta meron silang kickback.

Norma Andong Magpavaccine ako pero mauna muna ang mga politiko. Ano 'yon, kung di ka magpabakuna walang pera? Play safe din tayong mga pobre diba.

Oo, magpapavaccine ako para makalabas ako kasi gusto ko umuwi ng Iloilo. Gusto ko makita ang kapatid ko.

Rashid Para sa mga gaya ko na maraming allergy, natatakot ako magpa-vaccine. Hindi ko alam kung paano mag-react ang katawan ko sa gamot. Pero hopeful ako na sana ‘yong makuha ng city, kung may plano sila magprocure ng vaccine, is magandang klase at hindi Sinovac.