The Mindanao Cross | March 13, 2021

Vol. LXXIII| No. 6| Cotabato City | Saturday, March 13, 2021 |10 Pages | P10.00

P2

Mangudadatu lauds Senate OK for bill dividing Maguindanao

CHURCH / P6 RNDM: Life in Mission

TAPATAN / P10

March: Women’s Month Helen de Peralta-Yambao, MD, FPOGS, FSGOP

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

COVID VAX: A BEACON OF HOPE The prevalence of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) worldwide has unfolded horror, especially for nurses who stand at the front line.

The much-awaited vaccine for COVID-19 has already been rolled out to different parts and regions of the globe. In the southern part of the Philippines, the brand Sinovac vaccine was first to arrive in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Because of the limited supply of vaccines, frontliners such as health workers are on the master list to be immunized first.

Johaer Abdulah, 25, a nurse from Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) in Maguindanao, described his experience during the new normal as “undoubtedly distressing.”

"When the pandemic started, my workload became extra heavy—very different from the normal days. A lot has changed, because it’s a novel disease; and when it comes to adapting to the new system, I really had a hard time,” Abdulah said.

He recounted it has been tough for him and his family, because he always needed to make sure that all of them are safe from getting infected.

“I used to come home every day, but when the pandemic began, coming home was not as often as it used to be. I go home only after two weeks to ensure my family's safety,” he added.

Valerie Ann P. Lambo

P5

Vaccination lifts BARMM frontliners’ morale

BY JOHN FELIX UNSON

The morale of frontliners in the Bangsamoro region went high after getting jabs against a viral disease that has affected 584,667 in the country as of last week.

Bangsamoro Local Government Minister Naguib Sinarimbo, also BARMM spokesman, said Thursday the Sinovac vaccine roll outs for their frontliners went on smoothly.

A big number of health workers in the Bangsamoro region, whose lives are on the line as they perform anti-COVID-19 assignments, got Sinovac shots in symbolic roll outs launched early this week.

Chiefs of hospitals and personnel of the Integrated Provincial Health Offices

in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and in the cities of Lamitan and Marawi also received Sinovac vaccines.

Government health workers in Cotabato City, also inside the Bangsamoro core territory, got vaccinated via the Department of Health-12.

Sinarimbo said the leadership of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is grateful to the national government for providing BARMM frontliners with 4,200 doses of Sinovac vaccines, enough for 2,100 persons at two shots each.

On Wednesday, personnel of two

CLEANUP DRIVE. A total of 199 kilos of trash were collected at the Mt. Apo Natural Park, weeks after it faced closure due to garbage, vandalism, and violations committed by some trekkers in the area. See Thinking Aloud column by Carlos Bautista for related story.

P5

Photo courtesy of King Baacamante

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE FILIPINO PEOPLE

Bishop Jose Colin M. Bagaforo, DCC National Director, Caritas Philippines Bishop, Diocese of Kidapawan

IN CELEBRATION OF THE 500 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY IN THE PHILIPPINES

P6

SUNDAY, 14 MARCH 2021 5:00 PH TIME| 10:00 ROME TIME

FROM ST. PETER’S BASILICA IN THE VATICAN

ASTRAZENECA ARRIVES. Health officials of Region 12 and the Bangsamoro region inspect the doses of AstraZeneca vaccines that arrived via Awang Airport in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on Wednesday, March 10. Region 12 received 35,000 doses of the vaccine while BARMM had 6,000 doses, respectively.

Photos courtesy of PIA Cotabato City

Iqbal’s humility in victory

BY EDWIN O. FERNANDEZ

MINISTER Mohagher Iqbal of the some of the provisional teachers against Bangsamoro Region education ministry the education ministry. has demonstrated humility even after a The Ministry of Basic, Higher and local court upheld his decision to dismiss Technical Education (MBHTE) that provisional teachers who brought the Iqbal heads was not celebrating matter before the local court. over the decision but stressed Iqbal even offered employment to the issue of the legality of affected teachers who questioned his the provisional teachers’ decision to remove them from service dismissal should be put before the Regional Trial Court to rest.

Branch 13 that, eventually, In a video message dismissed the case in his posted Monday night favor. on MBHTE’s official RTC-Branch 13 of the Facebook page, Minister 12th Judicial Region has Iqbal said the court dismissed on March 1 declared that the cease petition for prohibition Mohagher Iqbal and desist order Photo courtesy of MBHTE-BARMM issued by MBHTE and mandamus filed by

P5

6ID frontliners to get vaccine jabs too

BY JOHN FELIX UNSON

MAGUINDANAO — To allay apprehensions by skeptics and pessimists, Major Gen. Juvymax Uy of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division took a jab Wednesday to show to his subordinate-frontliners that a Sinovac shot is safe.

Personnel of 6th ID directly involved in anti-COVID-19 operations, medics and those in the Camp Siongco Hospital shall be vaccinated too within the week.

The headquarters of 6th ID is located inside Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

“I need to do this to disprove apprehensions and fake stories spreading around purporting that a COVID-19 vaccine can cause health

problems,” Uy said after receiving a shot Wednesday.

The immunization of 6th ID frontline personnel shall be facilitated by the Integrated Provincial Health Office-Maguindanao.

The 6th ID, which has three brigades and a dozen battalions, covers Maguindanao, parts of Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and the cities of Cotabato, Koronadal, Tacurong and General Santos.

The division also has tactical control over a Special Forces battalion and Army mechanized units in South Cotabato and in Maguindanao, respectively.

2

March 13, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Mangudadatu lauds Senate OK for bill dividing province

Maguindanao 1st District Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu on Wednesday lauded the Senate for approving on third and final reading a bill that would divide the province into two.

Mangudadatu said House of Representatives Bill 6413 – sponsored by Senator Francis Tolentino, chair of the Committee on Local Government – seeks to divide Maguindanao province into Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur. “We are glad our counterpart in the Senate considered the bill,” he said in a phone interview.

“It has been a long dream for many Maguindanaons.

This is not for political accommodation but to fast-track (the) delivery of government services.”

The Senate version of the bill was approved on third and final reading on Tuesday, Mangudadatu said, adding that the

measure was co-sponsored by senators Miguel Zubiri and Bong Revilla.

If enacted into law, Maguindanao del Norte will be composed of the towns of Barira, Buldon, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Kabuntalan, Matanog, Northern Kabuntalan, Parang, North Upi, Sultan Kudarat, Sultan Mastura, and Talitay.

Maguindanao del Sur will consist of Ampatuan, Buluan, Datu Abdulla Sangki, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Datu Montawal, Datu Paglas, Datu Piang, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Unsay, Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun, Guindulungan,

M a m a s a p a n o , M a n g u d a d a t u , Pagalungan, Paglat, Pandag, Rajah Buayan, Sharif Aguak, Sharif Saydona Mustafa, Sultan sa Barongis, Talayan, and South Upi. Buluan would remain as the capital town of Maguindanao del Sur, while Datu Odin Sinsuat would become the capital of Maguindanao del Norte.

Based on the 2015 population count, Maguindanao has a population of 1,173,933 and an estimated average annual regular income of PHP714.56 million, as certified by the Bureau of Local Government F i n a n c e . E d w i n O.

Fernandez

RETOLD FOR THE YOUNG

Moro struggle, governance in online talk-forum series

YOUNG Moro citizens had virtual time travel of history of the Moro struggle to self-determination — through its present form, the Bangsamoro Moral governance.

Youthful top officials of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) toured young Moros through Bangsamoro issues, questions and history in early episodes this month of the BangsaForum Talk Series.

The BangsaForum Talk Series has been launched early in March in a bid to expand the realm of discussion on the Moro issues and governance to include timely participation of the young among the Moro citizenry.

During the first episode on Thursday, the Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC) and Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO) opened the floodgates of Moro issues to Moro youths audience who barely have heard of such fact in history as the Moro

Struggle to Self-Determination.

The heads of the two offices, joined by another youth member of the Bangsamoro Parliament disclosed that the BangsaForum Talk Series is an online forum being developed in partnership with The Asia Foundation (TAF) and supported by the British Embassy in Manila.

BARMM Cabinet Secretary Asnin Pendatun, and Members of Parliament (MP) Anna Tarhata Basman and Marjanie S. Mimbantas were the resource speakers during the forum’s first episode, aired during a watch party attended by media and youth organizations on Thursday, March 4 at the Bangsamoro Government Center in the city.

The episode, moderated by TV personalities Atom Araullo of GMA-7 and Chiara Zambrano of ABS-CBN, the discussion delved on the Bangsamoro Peace Process, the

P9

4 more NPAs pledge allegiance to gov’t

FOUR more members of the New People’s Army in Sultan Kudarat province surrendered to the military Tuesday.

The four NPAs also turned in their firearms before pledging allegiance to the government during a simple rite at the headquarters of the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion in Isulan, capital town of Sultan Kudarat.

Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, 6th Infantry Division commander, said Wednesday the four NPAs agreed to return to the fold of law through the intercession of officials of the 7th IB and Brig. Gen. Roy Galido of the 601st Brigade.

6th ID records obtained by this online news outfit stated that, as of March 2021, a total of 137 NPAs have yielded to the division in the past 18 months.

The 7th IB and the 601st Brigade are component-units of 6th ID that has secured the surrender of more than 50 NPAs in the past eight months through backdoor dialogues.

Uy said the four former rebels, whose names he withheld for their safety, shall be reintroduced to mainstream society with the help of the local government unit in their respective hometowns.

“We can’t identify them pending their relocation to areas where they are safe. The NPA is known for attacking members who have returned to the fold of law,” Uy said.

Uy said he is thankful to local officials in Sultan Kudarat province for helping units of 6th ID secure the surrender of NPAs through diplomatic initiatives. John Felix Unson

FEUD SETTLED.The warring family members (foreground) hand over their firearms to police and military representatives during the “rido” (family feud) settlement in Barangay Tamontaka 3, Cotabato City on Thursday, March 11. The firearms consisted of an M16 rifle, a Carbine rifle, and two .45-caliber pistols.

Photo courtesy of OHS-Sanitation Division

Ex-NPAs torch rebel flags, declare group as persona non grata

TWENTY-FIVE former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in North Cotabato have pledged allegiance to the government on Monday, after denouncing their membership with the communist movement.

The oath-taking of the former rebels, who surrendered to the military on Sunday, was witnessed by their relatives and some 1,000 residents of Barangay Luz in M’lang town.

On Tuesday, M’lang Mayor Russel Abonado said the village officials and former supporters of the communist movement in the village have voluntarily declared the NPA as “persona non grata”.

He said in the past, the rebels had “some influence” in the villages of La Suerte, La Fortuna, Palma Perez, and

Luz. “For that reason, the Army had conducted community support program in these villages to encourage the rebels to surrender and avail of government services,” Abonado said.

After the former rebels denounced the movement, various government agencies have provided services to the people, most of whom claimed it was their first time to receive government services such as on health, and securing of documents from the Philippine Statistics Authority, Department of Agrarian Reform and the Land Bank of the Philippines.

Former NPA member Carlos “Boy” Peña said he decided to heed the call of his family and friends to turn away from the communist movement as it has done

nothing good to him and his relatives.

“The Army diplomatically convinced me to surrender, they did not harm me or threaten me. My decision to come out was based on my free will,” he told reporters in the vernacular during an interview.

Abonado lauded the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion for applying a diplomatic approach in bringing peace to the village of Luz and nearby areas.

The NPA, together with the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines. Edwin O.

Fernandez

Basilan favors transition extension

CONNECTING THE REGION. The Department of Information and Communications Technology, in coordination with the BARMM’s Ministry of Labor and Employment, officially launched Thursday, March 11, a Technology for Economic Development Center which aims to provide internet connectivity to the region’s remote areas that lack digital access.

Photo courtesy of BIO-BARMM

EFFORTS to have the transition from the defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to the infant Bangsamoro government for three more years got another boost this week.

The Basilan Sangguniang Panlalawigan endorsed the proposal for a 3-year extension of the transition timeframe, a move that elated peace advocacy groups and regional officials.

Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, local government minister of the Bangsamoro region, said Wednesday the leadership of BARMM is thankful to Basilan’s provincial leaders for coming out with such resolution.

Gov. Jim Salliman told Mindanao Cross that members of the Basilan SP passed a resolution expressing favor for such extension.

The move by the Basilan SP came a week after Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong, Jr. told BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim in a meeting in Cotabato City that he and Lanao Sur leaders support moves to the transition process.

A 3-year extension for the setting up of all essential governance facets of BARMM shall necessitate the deferment of next year’s first ever regional elections to 2025.

Salliman, now in his second term as Basilan governor, said Saturday the SP resolution was premised on consensus reached during recent dialogues with leaders of local sectors that he and Vice Gov. Yusop Alano have initiated.

“We support the peace process. We saw the need for an extension of the ARMM-toBARMM transition term,” Salliman said.

Muslim and Christian peace advocacy blocs had earlier passed manifestos urging the House of Representatives and the Senate to reset to 2025 next year’s BARMM regional polls.

Only by an act of Congress can the 2022 BARMM political exercise be postponed to 2025.

Other leaders who support BARMM extension bid were North Cotabato Gov. Nancy Catamco and retired Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, OMI, DD. Quevedo said the dividends of

P9

March 13, 2021

RNDM: Life in Mission...from P6 Dulangan. We remember the laborious effort of our pioneers (Srs. Shanti and Andrea) who prepared the way for us. We continue to cross rivers, climb mountains and dangerous motorbike ride on steep Republic of the Philippines Region XII CITY GOVERNMENT OF COTABATO OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC In compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1 Guidlines in the Implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that LIANNE KYLA BADE GAUDIANO has filed with this Office, correction of entry in sex/gender from Male to FEMALE in the certificate of live birth of LIANNE KYLA BADE GAUDIANO who was born on November 23, 1996 at Cotabato City and whose parents are Ceasar Francisco Gaudiano and Emma Donor Bade.

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

(Sgd) TOHAMY M. LAUBAN Registration Office IV MC: March 13 & 20, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late GUIALUDIN DIMALANIS who died on March 23, 1972 at Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, left a parcel of land Lot No. 691, situated in Municipality of Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-89PN, with an area of 147,987 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Agnes R. de Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 3014; Page No. 3014; Book No. XXVI; Series of 2021.

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

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 Republic of the Philippines Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur Office of the Local Civil Registrar

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC In Compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant of OCRG Memorandum Circular 2013-1, Guidelines in the Implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that AIMAN GUIWAN ABDULLAH has filed with this Office , a petition for change of sex from FEMALE to Male in his certificate of birth who was born on 26 January 1998 at Salaman, Kapatagan, Lanao Del Sur. and whose parents are Acmad Bilalang Abdullah and Soraida Ungkay Guiwan Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file his written opposition with this Office not later than March 15, 2021.

(Sgd) SIMBAIYAN DOMATO BANSIL Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

3

THE MINDANAO CROSS

and rocky roads. We continue to be held in the communion of love at the heart of the Trinity and share in solidarity with the tribes’ struggle for unity and self-determination.

The harvest is plenty Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato CITY OF KIDAPAWAN Local Civil Registry Office

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with R.A Act No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Josephine M. Tecson has filed with this office a petition for Change of First Name from MODERNA to JOSEPHINE in the birth certificate of Moderna R. Macapagal who was born on January 1, 1964 at Kidapawan, Cotabato and whose parents are Marcelo Macapagal and Taciana.

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

(Sgd) RAUL A. MALALUAN City Registrar MC: March 13 & 20, 2021

AFFIDAVIT OF ADJUDICATION

but the laborers are few.

We invite more young women who have the heart for the world to join us

in our mission of love.

Be an RNDM Religious Missionary. Please email us at www.rndm.org.

CRISANEL PAWNSHOP-MAIN BRANCH I, II, III & Midsayap Branch

Patalastas ng Subasta Ang Crisanel Pawnshop ng Cotabato City at Midsayap, Cotabato ay nagpapatalastas na mayroon silang Subasta ng mga hindi natutubos na mga sangla. Ang mga ito ay isinangla magmula pa noong Agusto hangang Setyembre 2020. Ang Subasta ay sa Abril 03, 2021 sa ganap na ika 8:00 ng umaga hanggang ika 4:00 ng hapon sa nasabing lugar.

MC: Mar. 13, 2021

NOTICE

VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I AND BRANCH II will hold a public auction sale of all unredeemed and unrenewed items pawned from September 1 to October 31, 2020 on April 10, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., and VGM PAWNSHOP INC. II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City

SUBASTA

Be There, Management

Ang VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I ug BRANCH II magsubasta sa tanan nga wala lukata ug wala tubui gikan sa bulan sa Setyembre 1 hangtud sa bulan sa Oktubre 31 sa alas 9:00 sa buntag karung Abril 10, 2021 sa VGM PAWNSHOP INC. BRANCH I, Dayao St., ug sa VGM PAWNSHOP BRANCH II, Jose Abad Santos St., Kidapawan City.

MC: March 13, 20 & 27, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Ang Nagdumala

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late ARETO A. TADLAS who died intestate on December 17, 2008 at Cotabato City, left a parcel of land Lot 182-B-2K-2-G,Psd-63410 covered by TCT No. T-36605, situated in Bo. Colina, Cotabato City, with an area of 741 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Atty. Abbyr Ahmad Nul as per Doc. No. 403; Page No. 81; Book No. XX; Series of 2021.

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.

Notice is hereby given that the late RODOLFO B. LAO, SR. who died intestate on May 13, 2001 at Kidapawan City, left a parcel of land Lot 1, Psd51374, covered by TCT No. T-41440, situated in Kakar, Cotabato City, with an area of 415 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Atty.

Agnes R. de Castro-Jagunap as per Doc. No. 014; Page No. 014; Book No. XXVII; Series of 2021.

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

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.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANECITO C. GUANSING and TERESA FRONDA GUANSING who died intestate on May 28, 2008 and June 20, 2015, respectively at Pob. 3, Midsayap, Cotabato, a parcel of land Lot-2, Psd-000274, situated in Pob. 3, Midsayap, Cotabato, covered by TCT No. T-70011, with an area of 545 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement with waiver of rights of share before Notary Public Rodolfton S. J. De Leon as per Doc. No. 213; Page No. 44; Book No. 71; Series of 2020.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ADELINA CAYBOT who died on July 20, 2015 at Pagadian City, a parcel of land Lot No. 1, Pcs12-001812, situated in Baguer, Libungan, Cotabato with an area of 562 sq. mts., more or less covered by TCT No. 1522017003747 is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of intestate estate with simultaneous sale before Notary Public Teresita Carreon Llaban as per Doc. No. 303; Page No. 61; Book No. XX; Series of 2018.

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

MC: Feb. 27, Mar. 6 & 13, 2021 Republic of the Philippines Region XII Pikit, Cotabato

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC In Compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant of OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1 Guidelines in the Implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that MARLYN S. POSADAS has filed with this office, a petition for the change on the day of Birth from 30 to 14 and her name From MARLENE to MARLYN in the Certificate of Live Birth of MARLENE I. SATO at Pikit, Cotabato and whose parents are Nazario Sato and Francisca Intes.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than 10 March 2021

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

Republic of the Philippines Alamada, Cotabato

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In Compliance with section 5 R.A No. 9048 a notice is hereby served to the public that JOHN MICHEL B. SEPARO has filed with this office, a petition for change of first name from “ MICHAEL” to JOHN MICHAEL” in the certificate of live birth of Michael B. Separo who was born on 14 February 1986 at Alamada, Cotabato and whose parents are Nicholas A. Separo and Rodora P. Baredo.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than March 17, 2021.

(Sgd) EDITHA I. MONTERDE, MAed Municipal Civil Registrar

(Sgd) MA. LENY BUENO BUENAFE

MC: Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

MC: Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021 Republic of the Philippines Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parang, Maguindanao

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the late F L O R A N T E T. UMIPIG, who both died intestate at Cotabato City on January 21, 2021, left parcels of land Lot 6, Psd-12010502, situated in Bo. Rosary Heights, Cotabato; Lot 41, Blk. 3, Psd-11-045597 and Lot 7, Block 5, Psd-11014945, both situated in Davao City, covered

by TCT Nos. T-30478, T-342965 and T-146-2012010472, r e s p e c t i v e l y, w i t h the total area of 824 square meters, more or less are the subject of an extrajudicial settlement of estate with waiver of rights before Notary Public A t t y . A g n e s P. Paracha-Balleque, as per Doc. No. 47; Page No. 10; Book No. 05; Series of 2021.

MC: Mar. 13, 20 & 27, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late SAMMY PENDATUN MAULANA who died on June 20, 2019 at Quezon City, left a Savings Account No. 2163-1779-54 with BPI Bank, Cotabato City is the subject of extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty. Jaime P. Hechanova as per Doc. No. 103; Page No. 22; Book No. 140; Series of 2021.

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

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

Republic of the Philippines CITY GOVERNMENT OF COTABATO Region XII

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

In Compliance with section 5 R.A No. 9048/10172 a notice is hereby served to the public that SONIA P. KADIR has filed with this office, a petition for change of Sex from Female to Male in the birth certificate of EZRAEL PIANG KADIR who was born on July 16 1999 at Barangay Sarmiento, Parang, Maguindanao and whose parents are Sammy M. Kadir and Sonia R. Piang.

Any person adveresely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than March 17, 2021.

In Compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant of OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1 Guidelines in the Implementation of the Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that SOY LADERA ALONZO has filed with this office, correction of entry in sex/gender from Female to Male in the Certificate of Live Birth of SOY LADERA ALONZO who was born on May 2, 1967 at Cotabato City and whose parents are Consolador Legazpi Alonzo and Amancia Gallano Ladera.

Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than March 19, 2021

(SGD) KARIM O. OMAR, MPA

(Sgd) Tohamy M. Lauban

Municipal Civil Registrar

MC: Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

Registration Officer IV

MC: Mar. 6 & 13, 2021

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato CITY OF KIDAPAWAN Local Civil Registry Office

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with R.A Act No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Noel P. Argona has filed with this office a petition for Correction of Clerical Error of birth from 04 April 1969 to 14 April 1969 in the birth certificate of Noel P. Argona who was born on 14 April 1969 at Kidapawan, Cotabato and whose parents are Freddie A. Argona and Evarista H. Paña.

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

(Sgd) RAUL A. MALALUAN City Registrar MC: March 13 & 20, 2021

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato CITY OF KIDAPAWAN Local Civil Registry Office

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with R.A Act No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Jennifer A. Berbaña has filed with this office a petition for change of SEX from FEMALE to MALE in the birth certificate ofJennifer A. Berbaña who was born on 2448 (L-79) at Kidapawan, North Cotabato and whose parents are Eudolfo C.Berbaña and Erlinda Aguirre.

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

(Sgd) RAUL A. MALALUAN City Registrar MC: March 13 & 20, 2021

Republic of the Philippines Province of Cotabato CITY OF KIDAPAWAN Local Civil Registry Office

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with R.A Act No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that Deanne C. Farase has filed with this office a petition for change of SEX from MALE to FEMALE in the birth certificate of Deanne C. Farase who was born on June 26, 1999 at Kidapawan City, Cotabato and whose parents are Romeo C. Farase and Japhelyn B. Cadungog.

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

(Sgd) RAUL A. MALALUAN City Registrar MC: March 13 & 20, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the l a t e E VA N S . O N G who died on May 23, 2010 in Cotabato City, parcels of land Lot Nos. 2937-A, Csd-12-000183 and 2937-B, Csd-12000183, both situated in Sinawingan, Libungan, Cotabato, covered by TCT Nos. T-101899 & T-101900, respectively, with the total area of 40,008 sq. mts., more or less are the subject of extrajudicial settlement with simultaneous deed of absolute sale before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 242; Page No. 49; Book No. CCXIX; Series of 2021.

MC: Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2021

4

THE MINDANAO CROSS

March 13, 2021

Republic of the Philippines Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao OFFICE OF THE CHIEF MINISTER

Bangsamoro Government Center, Governor Gutierrez Avenue, Rosary Heights VII, Cotabato City

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 0001 Series of 2021 AUTHORIZING THE MINISTER OF THE MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT – BANGSAMORO AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO TO FILL VACANCIES IN THE BARANGAYS OF MUNICIPALITY OF UPI, MAGUINDANAO IN ORDER TO PREVENT HIATUS AND PARALYSIS IN ITS OPERATIONS.

WHEREAS, Section 10, Article VI of the Republic Act No. 11054 only be exercised if the period of temporary incapacity exceeds thirty (30) (R.A. 11054), otherwise known as An Act Providing for the Organic Law working days. for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao provides (b) Said temporary incapacity shall terminate upon submission to the that the authority of the Bangsamoro Government to regulate the affairs of its constituent local government units shall be guaranteed in accordance appropriate Sanggunian of a written declaration by the local chief executive with the Organic Law and the Bangsamoro Local Government Code to be concerned that he has reported back to office. In case where the temporary incapacity is due to legal causes, the local executive concerned shall also enacted by the Parliament; submit necessary documents showing that said legal causes no longer exist.

WHEREAS, under Section 3, Article XVI of R.A. 11054, the interim Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority shall exercise SECTION 4. OTHER VACANCIES. In the event that despite the executive authority over the Bangsamoro Government during the transition application of the modes of succession as provided in the ARMM Local period; Government Code and other existing laws or for reason which render WHEREAS, Section 3, Article V of R.A. 11054 includes power expressly the said modes of succession inapplicable, there remain vacancy in the granted thereunder, those necessarily implied therefrom, as well as Barangays of the Municipality of South Upi, Maguindanao which may powers necessary, appropriate, or incidental for the efficient and effective effectively hamper its operations, the Minister of the Interior and Local Government shall appoint a qualified person to fill the vacancy, who shall governance of the Bangsamoro Government; serve the unexpired term or for the duration of the temporarily vacant WHEREAS, Section 32 (e), Article VII of R.A. 11054 provides that the office, as the case may be.

Chief Minister has the power to issue executive orders and other policies SECTION 5. QUALIFICATIONS AND POWERS OF THE of the Bangsamoro Government; PERSON APPOINTED. Such person so appointed pursuant to Section WHEREAS, Section 4, Article XVI of the Bangasamoro Organic Law 4 of this Administrative Order shall exercise the powers and perform the provides that until the Bangsamoro Local Government Code is enacted, duties and functions of the local government position concerned as provided the Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 25 or the Autonomous Region by law. Provided, however, that the appointee has not been a candidate in Muslim Mindanao Local Government Code (ARMM Local Government for any elective position during the recently concluded election; provided Code) and other subsisting laws shall apply in the Bangsamoro Autonomous further, that the appointee shall act with the highest degree of integrity, impartiality and fairness at all times; provided, finally, that the appointee Region; must possess all qualifications and none of disqualifications prescribed for WHEREAS, Section 38 to 40 of the ARMM Local Government Code the corresponding elective office. provides for the rules on vacancies and succession in the Office of the Punong SECTION 6. SIMULTANEOUS APPOINTMENTS. In case of Barangay and Sanggunian Barangay; multiple vacancies under the circumstances provided in Section 4, the WHEREAS, there are instances when, despite the application of the Minister of the Interior and Local Government may make simultaneous modes of succession under the ARMM Local Government Code and other appointment, provided that the rules in the previous sections shall be existing laws or for reasons that the same cannot be applied, there remain strictly observed. vacant positions of elective local officials, which vacancies may disrupt the SECTION 7. CARETAKER OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT delivery of basic services and paralyze local government operations in such UNIT. Pending the completion of selection and appointment process areas; referred to in the previous sections, the remaining local elective official/s WHEREAS, to prevent hiatus and paralyzation in the operations of the shall administer the day-to-day operations of the local government unit of Municipality of South Upi, Maguindanao, there is an urgent need to provide South Upi, Maguindanao to ensure the continuous and effective delivery rules for the foregoing exigencies, in conformity with the Constitution, of public services therein.

R.A. 11054, ARMM Local Government Code, and other pertinent laws and When there are no remaining local officials to administer its day-to-day issuances on the matter; operations, the Minister of Interior and Local Government may designate NOW THEREFORE, I, AHOD BALAWAG EBRAHIM, Chief Minister a caretaker therein. of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao by virtue of SECTION 8. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE RULES. The Ministry of the powers vested in me by the existing laws, do hereby promulgate the the Interior and Local Government shall issue the necessary rules, orders, following: and circulars as may be necessary for the implementation of this Order.

SECTION 1. PERMANENT VACANCY IN THE OFFICE OF SECTION 9. REPORTORIAL REQUIREMENTS. The Minister PUNONG BARANGAY. When there is permanent vacancy in the Office of Punong Barangay due to physical or legal reasons such as, but not limited of the Interior and Local Government shall submit to the Chief Minister to, when an elective official fills a higher vacant office, refuses to assume a report on all appointments made pursuant to this Order within fifteen office, fails to qualify, dies, is removed from office, voluntarily resigns or (15) days from such appointment. otherwise permanently incapacitated to discharge the functions of the SECTION 10. INTER-AGENCY COOPERATION. All ministries office, the highest ranking sanggunian barangay member or in case of his permanent inability, the second highest ranking sanggunian member shall and offices in the Bangsamoro Government are directed to cooperate and become Punong Barangay. Subsequent vacancies in the barangay shall extend to the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government all appropriate be filled automatically by the other members according to their ranking assistance to carry out the objective of this Order. as defined herein.

SECTION 11. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. If any section or part of this Order is declare unconstitutional or invalid, the other sections or For purpose of succession, ranking in the Sanggunian shall be determined on the basis of the proportion of votes obtained by each winning provisions not otherwise affected shall remain in full force and effect. candidate to the total number of registered voters in the barangay in the SECTION 12. REPEALING CLAUSE. All orders, rules and immediately preceding local election. regulations, issuances, or any part thereof inconsistent with the provisions SECTION 2. PERMANENT VACANCY IN THE SANGGUNIAN of this Order are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

BARANGAY. Permanent vacancies in the Sanggunian Barangay where SECTION 13. EFFECTIVITY. This Order shall take effect the automatic succession provided above do not apply shall be filled by immediately after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation in appointment of the City or Municipal Mayor upon recommendation of the the region.

Sanggunian Barangay concerned, if still constituting a quorum.

SECTION 3. TEMPORARY VACANCY IN THE BARANGAY. (a) When the Punong Barangay is temporarily incapacitated to perform his duties for physical or legal reasons such as, but not limited to leave of absence, travel abroad and suspension from office, the highest ranking Sanggunian Barangay member shall automatically exercise the powers and perform the duties and functions of the local chief executive concerned, except the power to appoint, suspend or dismiss employees which can

DONE, in the City of Cotabato, this 13th days of January 2021.

AHOD B. EBRAHIM

Chief Minister

Vaccination lifts...from P1

government hospitals in Maguindanao, one in Datu Odin Sinsuat and the other in Upi, got Sinovac inoculations in separate roll outs led by Dr. Elizabeth Samama, IPHO-Maguindanao chief.

Physician Michael Macion, Datu Blah Sinsuat District Hospital in Upi, and their administrative officer, Mae BagundangSinsuat, were first to receive jabs during the symbolic event.

The BARMM health ministry has allocated 100 doses of Sinovac for medical workers of the Datu Blah District Hospital.

“It heightened even more our morale to keep protecting the local communities from the nasty coronavirus disease,” Macion told reporters after receiving a Sinovac jab administered

by Samama.

Macion urged the public to ignore circulating fake stories that COVID-19 vaccines can do more harm than good.

“Listen only to government health institutions, to the Bangsamoro health

5

THE MINDANAO CROSS

March 13, 2021

ministry, to the World Health Organization and the Unicef, not to skeptics on Facebook,” Macion said.

BARMM’s acting health minister, physician Amirel Sanday, got a Sinovac shot two days prior, during an initial roll out at the IPHOMaguindanao operation center in Shariff Aguak town.

At least 6,000 doses of Astrazeneca antiCOVID-19 vaccines from Metro Manila arrived Wednesday for BARMM. The vaccines were intended for frontliners in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, according to reports from the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) that played key roles in the vaccine importation.

BARMM received a total of 10,000 doses of the AstraZeneca on March 10, shipped under the international COVAX initiative.

“Our frontliners are happy with this,” said Usman, who, as BARMM’s acting health minister, is actively helping push the Bangsamoro government’s war on COVID-19 forward.

ADVERTISE WITH US Call (064) 421-71-61

Iqbal’s humility in...from P1 “is legitimate and more importantly, there is no infringement of the constitutional rights of the petitioners. Appointments to government service are and have always been based on merit and fitness.”

About 820 temporary teachers were dismissed from service due to lack of basic requirements – passing the Licensure Examination for Teachers.

Iqbal issued memoranda for teachers’ dismissal.

The Civil Service Commission – BARMM and the Bangsamoro Attorney General’s Office both affirmed that the memoranda were consistent with Rule IV of the 2017 Omnibus Rules on Appointments and Other Human Resource Action (Revised 2018).

Under this rule, provisional or temporary appointment is good only for one year. The provisional teachers have been their positions for more than two decades.

Although emotional over criticism and bashing in the social media, Iqbal kept his composure and politely offered employment opportunities to affected mentors.

“Some say I am heartless for depriving these teachers their sources of livelihood.

There is no truth to that,” Iqbal said.

“More than anyone else, I am the first one who was so affected in this issue. At one point I was in quandary as to

what to follow – the rule of law or humanitarian considerations? But at the end of the day we should always choose the rule of law that is moral,” he added.

Nonetheless, Iqbal said that should the provisional teachers still be willing and capable to serve the Bangsamoro children, they are welcome to re-join MBHTE’s parateachers or those who were temporarily appointed under contract-of-service, with P15,000 salary per month, in the absence of licensed teachers.

In July last year, MBHTE allotted h u m a n i t a r i a n assistance amounting to P190,980,000 intended for affected teachers who were willing to re-apply and work for a year under a contract of service.

Part of the budget included P10-Million for free-LET review (which is currently on hold due to the pandemic), appeal to Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to conduct special LET exam, P15k monthly salary, and some additional Php5,000 annual funds for administrative assessment activity.

The Bangsmaoro Information Office (BIO) said that to date, 435 secondary and elementary provisional teachers across the region have already signed their contract as para-teachers after re-applying in the ministry.

Iqbal said the door is still open for affected teachers if they so desire.

Covid VAX: A beacon...from P1 Giving it a “shot” Weeks before vaccines arrived in the Philippines, fears and rumors have been circulating that the vaccine is not safe and effective, and that it may aggravate the health situation.

Despite this, health workers, like Abdulah, gave it a shot and signed the waiver for inoculation.

“I was anxious, at first. Then, after the vaccination, I felt happy, because I became part of the first batch to get inoculated here in the region,” Abdulah said, noting he was aware of the possible adverse reactions.

A beacon of hope According to Abdulah, prioritizing the frontliners to get vaccinated serves as a “stepping stone for the government in beating Covid-19”.

He expressed his gratitude to the Bangsamoro Government, Ministry of Health (MOH), and IPHO Maguindanao for giving

priority to the frontline health workers in the region.

He also encouraged the Bangsamoro people to participate in this campaign.

“For those who are hesitant to be vaccinated, do not be afraid. Let's be part of the solution,” he stressed.

“As one of the first health workers to receive Sinovac vaccine, I want to remind them that negative things should not beat us,” Abdulah added.

Abdulah urged his fellow health workers to continue observing minimum public health – standards such as physical distancing, frequent handwashing, wearing of mask, face shields, and other personal protective equipment– even after getting vaccinated.

Along with the arrival of Covid-19 vaccine in the region is the hope for our health workers that one day, we will beat Covid-19 and will soon live a normal life, again.

BIO-BARMM

3 drug dealers up...from 10 million worth of shabu, a pistol and a white Toyota Hi-lux pick-up truck bearing license plates NEN 2109.

Azurin said they are thankful to Malabang municipal officials led by Mayor Tomas Macapodi for supporting their operation that resulted in the arrest of Alawi.

M a c a p o d i ,

chairperson of the Malabang municipal peace and order council, is known for his hardline policy in dealing with law offenders.

Azurin said he is optimistic of the conviction of the three drug dealers based on the cases the PDEABARMM filed against them. John Felix Unson

Efforts on making communities safer from explosive remnants of war receives renewed support from European Union Association FSD France (FSD), with its national partner the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL), is pleased to announce that its Mine Action programme in the BARMM Region will continue to November 2022 thanks to the support of the European Union (EU) through their Peace and Development in the BARMM programme.

The programme will continue to deliver risk education to help civilians avoid accidents with explosive ordnance left over from years of armed conflict in the region. It will also undertake survey and work with the authorities to ensure the safe removal of items of explosive ordnance that are found in the community.

Since 2012 FSD has been working tirelessly, with support from the European Union, to support the GPH-MILF Peace Process in their commitment to dealing with Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) making the BARMM Region a safer place to live. To date FSD France has delivered

3,612 Explosive Ordnance Risk Education sessions to a total of 269,840 beneficiaries.

FSD commits to reaching out to all commAunities affected by armed conflict. FSD would like to thank the Government of the Philippines, and in particular the Office of the Presidential Advisor on the Peace Process (OPAPP), the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority ( B TA ) a n d t h e European Union for their continued support without which this programme, aimed at saving l i v e s , would not be possible.

6

RNDM: Life in Mission The Religious of Notre Dame of the Missions (RNDM) is an international religious missionary congregation founded in Lyon, France, in 1861 by Euphrasie Barbier.

RNDM IN MISSION. A member of the Religious of Notre Dame of the Missions chats with Manobo Dulangan children in Kulaman, Sultan Kudarat.

Photo courtesy of RNDM

We are religious missionary women with a heart for the world present in 22 countries. Our call is to live the gift of “consecration for mission” expressed through various forms of education and social ministry responding to the needs of people, especially marginalized women and children and those who are poor and oppressed. One of our missions in the Philippines is our ministry with the Indigenous Peoples in Kulaman a.k.a Municipality of Senator Ninoy Aquino.

The Religious of Notre Dame of the Missions arrived in the Philippines in 1987, initially to work with the Manobo Dulangan in Kulaman, in response to the plea and invitation of Sultan Tagenek Dakias, the Manobo Dulangan chieftain, and Archbishop Phillip Smith, OMI, DD to assist the impoverished tribe.

In Kulaman, we are actively involved in health, education and culture-sensitive income initiatives in collaboration with the Manobo Dulangan, lay partners, Oblates of Mary Immaculate, local health and government unit. The goal of our project is to build the self-esteem and dignity of the Dulangan Manobo tribe, nurture their culture, unite and empower the tribe towards self-determination and sustainability.

"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn" – Benjamin Franklin We are not only providing some of the

T

March 13, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

tribe’s basic necessities and education but more so our various activities in capacity building aimed to encourage the tribe to have a voice and active involvement against discrimination and opens opportunities to be of loving service to their community as well. They become “Kesaligan” (person you can rely on) and “Matulanged (hardworking, wise, good) Manobo Dulangan words which our Community Health Workers and Women Beadworkers and Tailors respectively chose to name themselves.

One of the Community Health Workers whom we have trained expressed that during the pandemic, she has taught her community herbal medicine locally found in their area and made herbal soap. She was full of joy that though she is illiterate, she was able to help her community heal and survive.

Many of our past scholars of different Christian denominations have become leaders and key persons both in community and Barangay levels. Though not all of them managed to graduate because of different circumstances, nevertheless, majority of them are skilled and knowledgeable with Manobo Dulangan’s indigenous culture and tradition.

Sharing life and ministry with the Manobo Dulangan tribe is both challenging and a blessing. It is like climbing a steep mountain and at the end of the trail, one is held in awe of the beautiful gift of God with the towering trees, fresh air and friendly smiles of the locals. It is truly an honor to experience life with the Indigenous Peoples that reminds us of our own roots and indigenous values and wisdom... a sense of contentment or more so their total surrender to the God who loved them first.

Our hearts were melted seeing a child, with big head and small feet and who at the age of three still cannot walk and talk and the strong possibility of him being immobile for the rest of his life.

After 9 months of food supplement assistance, the father brought his child not only able to walk but was even running and jumping! The father was full of joy thanking “Nemula” God who made the impossible possible.

As a religious missionary, we are grateful for the opportunity to be instruments of God’s hands and feet that through our simple works we and others may glorify God. For almost 34 years, RNDM sisters have lovingly served the Manobo

P3

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE FILIPINO PEOPLE QUO USQUE TANDEM, CATILINA, ABUTERE PATIENTIA NOSTRA (How long, O Catiline, will you abuse our patience?)

A Statement of Concern of the Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace on the Killings in the Philippines Dear fellow Filipinos, our brother Bishops, and our political leaders, I was unable to sleep last night fully disturbed by the killings on Sunday, March 7, 2021, and the arbitrary executions before that. Then, I was alarmed by the realization that violence, which was incited at first by harmful, pervasive and deeply damaging rhetoric of the government’s highest officials, has become a daily fixture in the Philippine society.

Everything seemed to be fixed by the barrel of a gun. Insurgency and terrorism are equated to activism, defense of human and nature’s rights, and the call to respect freedom of speech, and the right to self- determination.

We have seen no government, after the Marcos dictatorship, such as this one urging openly and repetitively the military and the police to “kill, kill, kill.”

But what is more dangerous to my mind is the fact that seemingly, we have grown to be accustomed to tolerating this blatant disregard to the rule of law, by disrespecting the integrity of public office.

For almost five years we have let our leaders take command of our collective silence. They interpreted our inaction and passive nature as explicit permission to stir unlawful behavior as long as it is covered by legal orders and memorandum.

The quote from Cicero’s first speech against Catiline in 63 BC detailing conspiracy, abuse of power and reign of impunity still holds true in our present political environment: “When, O Catiline, do you mean to cease abusing our patience? How long is that madness of yours still to mock us? When is there to be an end of that unbridled audacity of yours, swaggering about as it does now?”

But we must also be asking ourselves: “Quousque nos tacemus?” How long will we be silent in the face of threats and harassments, of enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings, of red-tagging and arbitrary detentions.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights have spoken for us. The farmers in Negros, the Tumandok IP leaders in Capiz, and the activists in Southern Tagalog have died already fighting for their cause. So what about us? What is our conscience telling us? If you are disturbed as much as I was, now is the time to create a culture of peace. Let’s start within each Filipino family.

May the Blessed Mother Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede for us. Amen.

Your servant, Bishop Jose Colin M. Bagaforo National Director, Caritas Philippines Bishop, Diocese of Kidapawan

here are various becoming obedient to death, theories about the even death on a cross” (Phil. symbol of the medical 2:6-7). This pattern of profession which is a descending and ascending serpent wrapped around is repeated every time a a pole or a “caduceus.” disciple of the Lord leaves One theory is that it is a comfortable position and taken from ancient Greek enters into suffering for the Rev. Fr. Antonio P. Pueyo, DCC symbolism of the god of sake of lifting up the needy. tonypoy_dcc0@yahoo.com healing, Asclepius. Another There are many stories of theory associates it with people who descended even the wand of Mercury, the messenger of the Greek to a hellish situation in order save lives, bring about gods. Still another interpretations says it takes its healing, and defend human dignity. inspiration from the opening sentence of today’s gospel, How many medical and other front liners risked “Jesus said to Nicodemus: Just as Moses lifted up the their lives to help the victims of the pandemic? How serpent in the desert, so must the many social activists were redSon of Man be lifted up. So that tagged and even killed because they everyone who believes in him may were helping the voiceless and the have eternal life” ( John 3:14). In disadvantaged? How many of our the biblical story, the Jewish people own religious workers are involved who were escaping Egypt were in lifting up the situation of the bitten by venomous snakes in the internally displaced, especially the desert and so God instructed Moses indigenous peoples? How many to make a bronze serpent and lift it missionaries were persecuted for up on a pole (Num. 21:9). Whoever bringing the good news of Jesus looks at it is healed. I prefer the to far away lands? Just this past biblical interpretation. week, Pope Francis, left the safety In the bible, the serpent was a and convenience of Rome to go to symbol of sin and death. Adam and Iraq. This 84-year old Pope dared Eve were tempted by Satan in the form of a serpent. to travel to a place of terrible wars and where the That same symbol became a symbol of healing and church is persecuted in order to bring a message of salvation in Moses’ time. The evangelist John therefore hope, fraternity, and peace. took up the theme of healing and lifegiving in relation This season of Lent, we are challenged to follow to Jesus and His mission. Jesus was lifted up on the in the footsteps of Jesus who went down in order to cross to bring healing and redemption to all humanity. lift us up. When you talk to a small child or a sick Thus follows the most quoted sentence from the Bible, person in bed, you have to go down on your knees.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, This is the pattern of Christian evangelization. This is so that everyone who believes in him might not perish part of our Lenten observance. For what is a greater but might have eternal life” (Jn.. 3:16). sacrifice and mortification than helping someone in Jesus left the heavenly realm and came among need? It is for this reason that the season of Lent us as a human being in order to lift us up to heaven, is chosen for the Alay Kapwa activities. May our “though he was in the form of God …he emptied himself Lenten sacrifices bring life and well-being to the taking the form of a slave coming in human likeness… poor and the suffering. MC

Lifted Up

REFLECTIONS

This season of Lent, we are challenged to follow in the footsteps of Jesus who went down in order to lift us up.

B adaliyya Fr. Jun Mercado, OMI

Short Reflection for the 4th Week of Lent (B) Readings:

2 Chronicles 36: 14-16. 19-23; Ephesians 2: 4-10; John 3: 14-21

Selected Passage:

“And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed.” (Jn. 3: 19-20)

Meditation:

Lent is a special season to LOOK at the VERDICT on our own life. Our good deeds are our witnesses that we belong to the light. The true sacrifice that the Lord requires of us is good deed extended to our neighbors in need. Evil persons preferred darkness and hate the light. Beware!

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…

7

THE MINDANAO CROSS

March 13, 2021 EDITORIAL

T

Are Filipinas really empowered?

he campaign to empower women, particularly in the Philippines, has been going on since the start of the millennium. Although we claim that Filipinas compared to others in Asia have been toying the “martriarchal” line (many women are considered heads of clans, especially the elderly), there seem to be something wrong that we cannot point our fingers into. The foray of women into politics and other sectors which are exclusively men’s domain has introduced a smokescreen which makes us believe that we have successfully hurdled the goal of women empowerment.

One very glaring evidence is the number of Overseas Filipino Workers who are mostly women.

Recruiters search for workers even in the remotest barangays to send to the Middle East for work as household helpers. Once deployed, they become the source of income of their families, with their fathers and husbands neglecting their own work as farmers or fishermen and becoming dependent on the new income. Almost every family boasts of a sister or wife who sends remittances to their families. On the positive side, this is a boost to the economy since the remittances, however small they may be, help in paying for the education and raised standard of living for the family.

With the coming of the COVID-19 pandemic, the smokescreen is lifted and showed the real condition of women working in the Middle East, or somewhere else. Even before the pandemic, horror stories already emerge on what the women go through just to earn money for their families, especially in countries with a long history of slavery of women.

Is this the empowerment we are campaigning for? Shouldn’t we work first on changing the values, beliefs, ideas, habits in our communities so that our depressed economy does not distort what we hold important in our lives?

Some people consider the period of this pandemic as a transition. In terms of values, it brings the clarification and analysis of what is really important in our lives as Filipinos.

However, we should not equate the process of searching for the truth as a prelude to empowerment per se. If women feels free due to the economic benefits she is receiving, it should not be equated to empowerment. We should remember that empowerment is “the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming ones rights”, and it involves change in values, beliefs, ideas, and habits involving the status of women. Look around. There are men in our lives who still hold on to antiquated attitudes towards the role of women.

Hopefully, this COVID-19 pandemic will have as a side effect (just like the side effect of the vaccine) that would open the hearts and minds of everyone, that women empowerment is not just lip service or an imposed government program.

Once the factors affecting our lives wear off or stops (just like earning in dollars), we are back to where we were once. It is not a vaccine that protects us forever. Well, even vaccines do not work forever. How it works depends on our own paradigm — the way we carry ourselves and our community. MC +

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.

T

ake nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.

This quotation is part of the “Leave No Trace” philosophy of naturalists all over the world. It basically means that when we are in a natural setting, we should leave no trace of human intervention. We should, by all means, take pictures for our memories of our adventures.

We should not leave anything behind such as trash, beer cans, paper, tobacco filters, plastic bags etc. We should be careful not to kill any of the wildlife in the area which includes animals, plants, and any living thing. We are stewards of this beautiful planet and we should not leave our imprint on any natural area. Thus says a post on a blog on outdoor ethics.

Trekkers who go up year on year to Mt. Apo are supposedly reminded of this once they register.

Apparently not everyone heeds it.

More than a hundred kilos of garbage, mostly bottles and plastic water bottles, were retrieved and brought down from around Lake Venado and the peak of Mt. Apo in a recent clean-up climb at the country’s highest peak.

The clean-up climb conducted from Feb. 22 - 27 was initiated by the Department of Natural Resources Cotabato provincial office and the Mt. Apo National Park Protected Area Management Board, with the support of the local tourism offices of the town of Magpet and Kidapawan City.

According to Magpet tourism officer Karl Jone Tanaid, 132 volunteers from various government agencies, mountaineering groups and organizations joined the clean-up drive along with 28 porters and local guides. The clean-up activity was conducted along the trails, around Lake Venado and the peak. They collected some 199 kilos of garbage, Tanaid said.

Aside from garbage, the group also cleaned vandalism painted on large boulders at the peak. “There is something different written on the boulders with paint every year, observed Kidapawan-based photographer King Bacamante, one of the volunteers. Bacamante joins the yearly clean-up on invitation by DENR-Cotabato.

Both Tanaid and Bacamante said most of the climb protocol violators passed through the Sta. Cruz, Digos and Bansalan trails in Davao Del Sur which has apparently remained open since 2020 and despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier a team led by the DENR Davao Region office observed in its trail and camp assessment along the Kapatagan trail to the peak from February 11 to 14 the non-observance of Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases guidelines on social distancing IT WILL be Earth Hour at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST) on MARCH 28 (March 27, 8:30 a.m. Local Time). But this year is historically marked in most of the Philippines with the countdown to the Quincentenary of Christianity in the country which began with the First Catholic Mass in Limasawa, Leyte on March 31, 1521. It will be a long period of rest days through the Holy Week from First of April, Holy Thursday and Good Friday next, through Black Saturday and Easter Sunday.

The First Mass, conducted by Padre Pedro de Villarama, was not held on March 16, as widely believed. March 16, 1521 was actually the date when the Spanish fleet of Portuguese explorer Fernando de Magallanes aka Ferdinand Magellan, reached the east (Pacific) coasts of Leyte.

Not much of “historical face” is told of the event in the Island which the Italian explorer Antonio Pigafetta recorded in his chronicles as “Mazaua”— as compared to those that took place in Cebu City in peace and diplomacy with Rajah Jumabon on one hand, and on the other, the fierce Battle of Mactan on April 27, 1521 which is almost synonymous to Lapu-Lapu in many of President Duterte’s speeches in which he’d share his recap of Philippine History..

One of my elementary teachers (Bless her soul) inadvertently taught us one big error from that part of the country’s history, by saying it was also “Magellan who named the country, Philippines, in honor of Spain’s King Philip.”

But it was only in the succeeding expedition of Spanish explorer Ruy Lopez de Villalobos (1544) that the Spanish sailor Bernardo dela Torre gave the name Las Islas Pilipinas on Samar and Leyte islands in honor of then Prince Philip of Asturias who eventually became Spain’s crowned king.

Prior to this, the Philippine Archipelago was known to the first colonial administration of the New World in 1541 as “Islas del Poniente,” meaning “Islands of the West.”

Spain’s Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza became

‘Leave nothing but footprints’

Thinking Aloud Carlos C. Bautista caloyb@gmail.com

limiting the number of trekkers from 50 to 25 climbers per climb per day. The team also noted the non-observance of proper waste disposal along the trails and campsites, as well as the vandalism at the peak.

Following their trail and camp assessment, DENR Davao Region officials warned of the possibility of closing Mt. Apo to trek activities yet again. In Cotabato province, MANP-PAMB, DENR Cotabato, and the tourism offices of Magpet, Makilala and Kidapawan City have agreed in a recent meeting to keep Cotabato trails going to Mt. Apo closed until April 31. That means no Holy Week Climb will be done via Cotabato trails.

But what will happen after the closure? What will happen once the trails are opened again? Will it be back to the same problem? Will it be eco-tourism equals ecothrashing all over again?

Stricter and more serious steps have to be taken.

According to Tanaid, monitoring stations are set-up at the entry points going to Mt. Apo in Magpet, Makilala and Kidapawan City. Regular monitoring of the areas within each local government unit’s jurisdiction is also done. This should be a standard set-up and protocol in all locales that have trails going to Mt. Apo. Bacamante says serious orientation and checking should also be done in all entry point monitoring stations. All climbers must be required to present their garbage loads when they come down from the mountain.

Engaging the indigenous people’s communities that live around the foothills of Mt. Apo as forest rangers or “Bantay-Bukid” is also a plausible move. They could be compensated jointly by the DENR, MANP-PAMB, and the local government units via contract-of-service agreements or something similar. Mt. Apo is under threat from irresponsible trekkers and irresponsible trek organizers. The way to save Mt. Apo is to stop their malpractice, penalize them to the fullest extent provided for by protected area rules and laws.

Because some people just have to learn the hard way. MC

Great events in March

Penlight Nash B. Maulana

nash.penlight@gmail.com

the first administrator of the New World, and it was in about 1541 when he commissioned Lopez de Villalobos to set a sail of fleet expedition to “Islas del Poniente,” now known as the Philippines. The expedition made up of six galleon ships— Santiago, San Jorge, San Antonio, San Cristóbal, San Martín, and San Juan—reached in about 1544. This would mean that Catholicism is older in the land than this country’s name, by about 23 years.

The Philippine Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has put an end to a scholarly dispute arising from the country’s history of the First Catholic Mass. Some scholars had asserted that the “Mazaua” in Pigafetta’s notes “actually referred to Masao in Butuan.”

The late Dr. Alberto Villarez, former president of Northern Mindanao State Institute of Science and Technology (now Caraga State University), was a mentor and almost like a father to me. He once invited me to a dialogue in Butuan on home-grown scholars’ assertion that the First Mass took place in Masao, Butuan—instead of the popular notion that it was in Limasawa in Southern Leyte.

To put an end to this conflict among Filipino scholars, the NHCP ruled with finality that there was “no sufficient of evidence of facts as to warrant an NHCP reversal of a previous ruling rendered by the National Historical Institute, and upheld Limasawa in Southern Leyte as the place where the First Catholic Mass in this Archipelago ever took place. MC

8

March 13, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

Do-or-Die Situation

And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will; but the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear, therefore, for you are more of value than many sparrows” Charlie Señase (Matthew 10:28-31). csenase@yahoo.com It’s inspiring to know HERE seems to be a global unrest that amid hesitancy due to brought about by COVID-19 that has doubts on vaccines’ origin and efficacy, adversely affected normal lifestyle. regional and provincial health chiefs in The economy plunging, unemployment Muslim and Central Mindanao were and prices of basic goods rising with the first to get inoculated as role models restrained movements of people around to other front-liners. Kudos to DOH-12 the world in the midst of availability but Director Aristides Tan and BARMM OIC limited supply of anti-COVID vaccine.

Health Minister Ameril Usman with the In a joint statement by Moro hope that other heads of offices from the conservatives of Sulu and North Borneo Executive, Legislative and Judiciary may and those from Southeast Asian countries, follow suit. they regard the mandatory inoculation With COVID still on our shoulder as “a conspiracy to depopulation by the issue on having to concealing truth and extend BARMM’s interim instill extreme fear governance for another to the whole human three years instead of race.” election continues to Believe it or not, snow ball in-and-out of the world is divided as Congress. in light and darkness Coincidentally not that we have to discern only extension is the what’s good and evil, burning issue but the for nothing hidden in decades-old expansion the dark that will not mindset as embodied in be exposed in the end. the 1996 GRP-MNLF This man-made Final Peace Agreement health hazard has triggered inflation this of which 13 provinces would comprise week as local stock barometer slipped Muslim autonomy in MinSuPala. to 6,700 level prompting investors to Call it providential, but on March 13 blame also the recent US attack on Saudi a plebiscite will be held in Palawan for Arabia’s oil facilities as behind the global 490,000 residents to vote if they are in burden. favor of dividing the province into three.

It’s time to repent and turn to Jesus The political event could be precedent who is “The Way the Truth and the Life” to the recently approved House Bill by subjecting ourselves to God and duly dividing Maguindanao into two. constituted authorities.

With the present 5-province BARMM Mass immunization is scientific can other Mindanao provinces of Lanao del and a must to follow believing that only Norte, Sultan Kudarat, North and South God can defy science if something goes Cotabato be part of the so-called Moro wrong. Outwardly we may be weak but ancestral domain? with unwavering faith our inward man With God’s help anything is possible is strong. without force and intimidation, saying: Christ, the Messiah, reminding us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they “Not to fear those who kill the body but shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). cannot kill the soul; but rather fear Him He also reminded all and sundry that, who is able to destroy both soul and body “Whoever desires to save his life will lose in hell.” And He went on saying, “Are it, but whoever loses his life for God-sake not two sparrows sold for a cooper coin? will find it” (Matthew 16:25). MC

True to Form

T

The political event could be precedent to the recently approved House Bill dividing Maguindanao into two.

The Four Dreams of St. Joseph

about how to build the things that last, that are strong. We don’t know how Joseph died, but tradition tells us it was in the arms of Jesus and Mary. He is the patron saint of a good Victoria R. Franco, RPh, MS Pharmacy death and is a special quiet franco1573victoria@gmail.com intercessor for souls in their last hour. I imagine arch 19 is the Feast Day of St. those last moments on Joseph, the spouse of Mama earth will seem a bit like a dream.

Mary. The year 2021 has been Perhaps this way St. Joseph is specially declared by Pope Francis as the year fond of finding souls in that state. of St. Joseph. ( From St. Anthony de What do we learn from St.Joseph’s Padua posts by Gerard Fernandez) dreams? We learn that God can speak, “Joseph, son of David, do not be perhaps speak best, when we are afraid.” Mathew 1:20 quiet and passive, when our busy St. Joseph never saw an angel conscious minds slow down, or turned the way Mary off completely. God did, clear as day speaks in ways that with her waking can seem absurd eyes. He never in the light of day. saw the burning Perhaps He needs bush or heard the the strangeness of thunderous voice of dreams to teach us God. Saint Joseph something about only heard God stories, about the in the quietest of truths that lie just ways. He dreamed beyond the realm of angels. He heard of reason. We learn God while he slept. from St. Joseph that There are four we can trust, even dreams of St. Joseph. when we are afraid.

In the first,he We learn that just because someone is learns the miraculous nurse of Mary’s silent does not mean that they are not, pregnancy and is told not to be afraid to at this very moment taking courageous take her as his wife. In the second, he actions of love. is warned to leave Bethlehem and flee St. Joseph could not be the more to Egypt. While in Egypt, he has a third perfect example and intercessor for dream, where he learns that it was safe this moment of quiet trust. A saint to return to Israel. Finally, he dreams whose voice we never heard. A saint of a fourth dream: he is again warned who saw angels only while he slept, of the danger and travels to Galilee still unaware. We live in a loud instead of back to Judea. We never hear world. There are many opportunities St. Joseph speak in the Bible, but he is for,silence and listening. This is a certainly a man of action. With only the moment to dream. certainty of a dream, he leads his small Let angels into those cracks in your family across foreign desert lands to consciousness, those absurd grey areas safety. He acts with conviction, though of your mind that only fully hum while we know he was afraid death. (Joseph, you sleep. Let this moment of forced do not be afraid) We can imagine the slowness allow you to dream. Let St. scenes we are not told about during ‘the Joseph teach us the beauty of quiet, lost years’ of Jesus’ childhood. Hours in listening and let his quiet courage be the carpentry shop, St.Joseph teaching an example to us all in this odd and his young, adoptive son about patience, frightening moment in history. MC

The Stuff of Life

M

We live in a loud world. There are many opportunities for silence and listening.

Dehydration in the elderly

Most of my patients with dehydration come in with the following symptoms: dizziness and light headedness, dry and sticky mouth, dry skin, Cheridine P. Oro- Josef, M.D., DFM, FPAFP, FPCGM headache, weakness, loss cheridinemd@gmail.com of appetite and decrease in urine output. These n 82 year old female came to symptoms are alarming for the elderly consult me because of cough as these may cause hyponatremia and easy fatigability for 3 days. (very low salt) and hypokalemia She complained of loss of appetite and (very low potassium). The elderly dryness of mouth. The granddaughter, with very low salt levels may present who takes care of her, claimed that with headache, nausea, vomiting, she doesn’t get out of the house but confusion, loss of energy, fatigue, stays in her room all the time. After restlessness, irritability and even physical examination, I considered seizures. Those suffering from very pneumonia which was confirmed by a low potassium levels may also present Chest X-ray result. On further query, with weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps I found out that her room is humid and constipation. People with low and lacks proper ventilation. She was potassium levels may also suffer from subsequently admitted for pneumonia abnormal heart rhythm. Many times, and in the hospital was found to have older persons with these symptoms very low levels of salt and potassium. need to be hospitalized.

I have seen so many elderly To prevent dehydration and its suffering from dehydration because consequences the older person should of too much sweat and water loss ensure proper hydration by drinking a due to the rising temperature of the glass of water every 2 hours. Drinking environment. When it’s hot and humid, water should be well distributed within the risk of dehydration increases the day not only during meal times. because sweat can’t evaporate and cool Drinking a lot of water during meal our bodies as fast as we can. This can time without water in between meals lead to increased body temperature defeats the purpose of hydration. If an and the need for more fluids. Young older person is noted to be having more children, persons with chronic diseases sweat and with less urine output, it is and the elderly are vulnerable and helpful to start giving oral rehydration are at greater risk of suffering from salts, a bottle or 2 taken little by dehydration. Among older persons, little may help prevent hyponatremia dryness together with decrease in lung and hypokalemia. Should symptoms function and impaired cough reflex persist, it is still best to consult your predispose them to pneumonia. doctor. MC

Golden Threads

A

The Importance of Writing Ability

have prescribed outlines while others give you more latitude on your styling.

Second, the use of proper terminologies is important for technical subjects. Thus, it would Danny Buenbrazo be good to know more danny_buenbrazo@yahoo.com about a certain field (e.g. health care) if you are t is said that the three most important things that we should learn in school to write about it and its not your area are reading, writing, and arithmetic. of expertise. It would not hurt if you They failed to mention that it is equally request an expert in the field to review your work. important to know how to speak too.

Third, some papers (like proposals Anyway, each of the four skills provide are really important and provide and reports) need solid data and complete the tools for a person to succeed in school data or statistics. Not only that, but they and in his or her profession. Not to may also need to be written with good downgrade its importance but arithmetic analysis and sound conclusions (basis may be less required of the four, perhaps for recommendations that you may have been asked to make). apart from field such as Excellent writers are business, engineering, very good in research and some sciences. or would know people A typical employee to ask for help when will not be required data gathering, and to apply mathematical data analysis are computations in the required. ordinary course of Fourth, know work but engineers your capacity to and those in the complete each type field of business are of document you required to do a lot of may be required to writing. prepare. This would I would venture give you sense of to say that writing is one, if not the most important, of the how much time you need to write a four skills that a person must possess particular paper. Knowing this would to be successful as a student and as a help avoid missing deadlines as you are professional. Most of the examinations conscious of when to start and complete given in school or for admission to work your writing. When I was doing my are in writing. Reports in work are often Master in Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, an American required to be done in writing.

One cannot land a job without writing professor emphasized meeting deadlines a good application letter, passing a written for written works. He said: what would be the use of a very well-written paper examination, and writing an essay.

There are a few important items when you submit it to your superior after to keep in mind to be able to write his or her important meeting (where the effectively and efficiently, especially in information contained in your paper would have been needed) ? a particular field of profession.

Just like learning a new skill, one First, know thy audience. By audience here, I refer to the person or gets better in writing by constantly people that either asked you to write or practicing. As they say, practice makes will be reading your proposal, concept perfect. The more we do it, the easier paper, or report. Some would prefer it gets, and the faster work can be shorter papers while others a more completed.

So, get started. MC extensive writing. Certain organizations

Market Driven

I

Just like learning a new skill, one gets better in writing by constantly practicing.

As they say, practice makes perfect.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES METRO COTABATO WATER DISTRICT Governor Gutierrez Avenue Cotabato City

INVITATION TO BID

1. The LOCAL WATER UTILITIES ADMINISTRATION has received a Loan from the Asian Development Bank toward the cost of the Water District Development Sector Project (WDDSP), and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this loan to payments under the contract for the 2nd Rebidding - Furnishing of Materials, Labor, Tools and Equipment for the Replacement of Existing 400mmØ Steel Transmission Mains to 400mmØ Ductile Iron Pipes and Fittings from Tanuel Pumping Station to SPDA Road Junction.

2. The Metro Cotabato Water District(MCWD) now invites bids for the 2nd Rebidding -Furnishing of Materials, Labor, Tools and Equipment for the Replacement of Existing 400mmØ Steel Transmission Mains to 400mmØ Ductile Iron Pipes and Fittings from Tanuel Pumping Station to SPDA Road Junction. Completion of the Works is required within eighteen (18) months. Bidders should have completed a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Sub-section 5 of Section II. Instructions to Bidders and the corresponding Bid Data Sheet.

3. Bidding will be conducted in accordance with relevant procedures for open competitive bidding as specified in the IRR of Republic Act 9184, with some amendments, as stated in these bidding documents and is open to all bidders from eligible source countries as defined in the applicable procurement guidelines of ADB. The contract shall be awarded to the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bidder (LCRB) who was determined as such during post-qualification. The approved budget for the contract (ABC) is PhP124,760,000.00.

4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from the MCWD Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except during weekends and non-working holidays.

5. A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired by the interested bidders on 10 March 2021 but before 10:00 a.m. of 19 April 2021 at the Procurement Section of MCWD located at the address below and upon payment of the applicable fee for the bidding documents, in the amount of Twenty Five Thousand Pesos (PhP25,000.00).

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS), www.philgeps.gov.ph, and the website of the Metro Cotabato Water District, www.metrocotabatowd.gov.ph Bidding Documents for the Construction of Metro Cotabato WSS provided that bidders shall pay the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

6. The Metro Cotabato Water District will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on 22 March 2021, 10:00 a.m. at MCWD BAC Room, Governor Gutierrez Avenue, Cotabato City, which shall be open to prospective bidders. Pre-bid Conference may be conducted in person, face-to-face through videoconferencing, webcasting, or similar technology, or a combination thereof.

7. Bids must be duly received by the BAC Secretariat at the address below on or before 10:00 a.m. on 19 April 2021. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security in the amount of not less than PhP2,495,200.00 in cash, cashier’s/manager’s check, bank draft/guarantee or irrevocable letter of credit.

Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

8. The Metro Cotabato Water District reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

9. For further information, please refer to: MS. ROSALIE J. DELA CRUZ Head,BAC Secretariat Metro Cotabato Water District Gov. Gutierrez Avenue, Cotabato City Telefax No.: 63(064) 421-3009 Email Address: mcwd_procurement@yahoo.com Website address: metrocotabatowd.gov.ph

(Sgd) MR. WINSTON L. SAPAL Chairperson, MCWD BAC MC: Mar. 13, 2021

9

THE MINDANAO CROSS

March 13, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late SPS. PABLO HECHANOVA MENDEZ and ROSALIA CAPILITAN MENDEZ, who both died at San Mateo, Aleosan, Cotabato on December 15, 2001 and May 9, 1993, respectively, left a parcel of land Lot 981-44, Sgs12-000003, situated at San Mateo, Pikit (now Aleosan), Cotabato with an area of 24,051 sq. mts., more or less is the subject of extrajudicial settlement and partition of intestate estate before Notary Public Alberto T. Eramis as per Doc. No. 116; Page No. 24; Book No. CCIX; Series of 2020.

MC: Mar. 13, 20 & 27, 2021

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the late SURAYA S. GARAY who died on January 20, 2020 at Kuwait, left a Bank Account at BDO-Julia Vargas IBP Tower is the subject of an extrajudicial settlement of estate before Notary Public Atty.

Amira S. Pagayao, CPA as per Doc. No. 10; Page No. 2; Book No. V; Series of 2021.

MC: Mar. 13, 20 & 27, 2021

RETOLD FOR THE...from P2

Well-informed and responsible points of view on vital issues Smart and honest opinions from young generation Filipinos.

TWO O CENTS Moving to the forefront

BY HONEE DYANNE M. MASURONG

T

he promotion of the Bangsamoro identity, culture and heritage has become a challenge more so in the advent of the transition towards a sui generis autonomous region. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, tackling this challenge has been pushed to the back of the long list of priorities of the Bangsamoro leaders and constituents alike. While it cannot be denied that there are issues more pressing especially at this time of crisis, it is equally important to look at the sectors of arts, culture and heritage so as not to leave anyone behind in this journey towards autonomy.

With peace, unity and development in mind, the Bangsamoro cannot ignore the gargantuan role of arts, culture and heritage and their contribution to the achievement of the goals and aspirations of the Bangsamoro. Sustaining and promoting the Bangsamoro identity, culture and heritage will create a common ground for the Bangsamoro people. It will help them connect and empower each other, ultimately leading to unity and peace between and among the Bangsamoro people.

It is unfortunate that the initiatives of the Bangsamoro government in sustaining and promoting identity, culture and heritage have been hampered by the pandemic. This, however should not dampen the spirits of the Bangsamoro leaders and the people as it is during these trying times when the opportunity to become better is at hand. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Bangsamoro, too can rise from the challenges brought upon by the pandemic.

Through the Bangsamoro leaders, programs aimed at providing the Bangsamoro people with avenues through which they can explore and express the Bangsamoro identity, culture and heritage may be proposed and implemented. Moreover, ongoing initiatives towards culture and heritage shall be strengthened.

Programs and projects may also encourage patronization of products made by Bangsamoro people through which we can empower the Bangsamoro artists and activate the artistry unique to the Bangsamoro.

The Bangsamoro, in attaining peace, unity and development through the promotion of the Bangsamoro identity, culture and heritage shall make use of the different types of media available.

The boundless reach of the media can be of great help to this cause. Furthermore, media, especially social media networks, can connect people in ways beyond the reach of traditional media.

Of great importance is the use of media to counter the stigma surrounding the Bangsamoro. This is vital in promoting the Bangsamoro identity – the identity as peace-loving and god-fearing people. To end the long tale of stereotypes and misconceptions against the Bangsamoro, it must go back to its genesis – wrong portrayal by the media – and use it to create a better, more truthful image of the Bangsamoro.

The Bangsamoro is not alone in this journey towards peace, unity and development. It has the support of the national government and of external bodies. It is governed by leaders of great caliber whose hearts are truly for the Bangsamoro. But as one Bangsamoro, it faces the responsibility of showing the rest of the country that it, indeed, has its own identity that the people embrace; that it has a rich culture that the people cultivate; and it has a heritage that the people are proud of.

transition period, and the role of youth in Bangsamoro governance, among others.

Expressing assurance of fair representation for the Indigenous People and the groups of non-Moro settler in the region, MP Basman said “the BARMM is the best place for them since their rights are recognized in the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).”

“Sa parliament palang, hindi sila excluded. In the structure of our government, mayroon tayong ministry for non-Moro indigenous people,” she said, noting that there is also an office for settler communities.

“When there are policies that are being crafted, incorporated yung kanilang concerns. Kasama sila sa mga umuupo at nagdedesisyon for the greater region,” Basman added.

MP Mimbantas, who is also the chairman of the BYC, shared that in motivating the youth to pursue education, “Ginagawa naming panginspire na halimbawa yung mga katulad ko na lumaki sa mga kampo na kailangan magtago ng ilang taon, pero kahit papaano ay nakatapos ng pag-aaral.”

“Walang rason ang mga kabataan na hindi makapagtapos dahil may Bangsamoro Government na susuporta sa kanila,” he stressed.

On the subject of whether BARMM is really the key to long lasting peace in Mindanao, CabSec Pendatun said that the establishment of the Bangsamoro Government

is “probably the last best chance that we can have in any peaceful attempt to address the struggles and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people.”

“In fact we need to remind ourselves na yung pagtayo ng Bangsamoro Government is just the continuation of the struggle.

Ito ay isang tool lamang para makapag-implementa ng reforms sa Bangsamoro that would address yung ugat talaga kung bakit ba tayo nag-aklas in the first place,” Pendatun added.

BARMM BIO Executive Director Ameen Andrew Alonto said the BangsaForum Talk Series

the peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front will go to waste if the national government will not allow an extension of the ARMM-to-BARMM transition period.

Salliman lauded provincial leaders for the resolution which he described as "so beneficial" to the government-MILF peace overture.

Before getting elected in 2016 as

Honee Dyanne M. Masurong, CPA, 23, graduated as summa cum laude in Ateneo de Davao University. She is currently serving the Bangsamoro people by working in the Ministry of Finance and Budget Management (MFBM-BARMM) as a Budget and Management Specialist I. Her essay is the winning piece in the recently conducted on-the-spot Essay Writing Contest for BARMM Employees as part of the celebration of the 2021 National Arts Month: “Alab Sining, Alay Sigla”. is a town hall initiative and BARMM information drive on the new parliamentary form of government and how it will shape the future of the region.

Alonto added that the online Talk Series is part of a larger initiative led

by TAF and funded by the British Embassy Manila with the ultimate objective of enhancing meaningful political participation in the region by creating inclusive and safe spaces for dialogue especially among the underrepresented groups such as the youth, women, and indigenous peoples.

With reports from Nash B.

Maulana

Basilan favors transition extension...from P2

governor, Salliman said he has been supporting the efforts of Malacañang and the MILF to put a negotiated closure to decades old M o r o s e cessionist issue. John Felix Unson

10

March 13, 2021

THE MINDANAO CROSS

TAPATAN SA OBLATE MEDIA

Healthcare systems are complex and continually changing across a variety of contexts and health service levels. Healthcare leaders such as medical hospital chiefs have many things demanding their attention each day. Not only do they have to make sure the hospital is smooth-running, but they must also ensure employees under them are getting their jobs done as well.

After 34 years in government service and 13 years as the medical center chief of Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, newly retired Dr. Helen de Peralta-Yambao has a good idea what it takes to lead a hospital. Born and raised in Midsayap, Cotabato, she had her elementary (salutatorian) and high school (valedictorian) education in the same town. In 1976, she finished Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy in the University of the Philippines.

For a while she was a practicing physical therapist. A year after, she pursued medicine at the UP College of Medicine and graduated in 1981. She holds a Masters in Hospital Administration from UP, a Master of Arts in Hospital Administration from San Pedro College, Davao City, and a 6th Flagship Course in Hospital Sector Reform & Sustainable Financing leading to Masters in Public Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines. She is an obstetrician-gynecologist and a gynecologic DR. HELEN DE PERALTA-YAMBAO oncologist. She has a clinic at the CRMC Cancer Center. She is a wife, a mother to his son, and on her leisure time, a very good RETIRED CHIEF OF HOSPITAL COTABATO REGIONAL AND MEDICAL CENTER cook, a beadworker, a seamstress and a voracious reader.

When I assumed as the medical chief in 2008, the hospital has almost 500 workforces only. All throughout the years, we expanded into more than 1,900 human resources due to increase in our bed occupancy. Running a very big hospital, such as ours, was a challenge. When I assumed the post as chief, the first thing I did was to institute changes and reforms in the organization. One is to have a strict medical social service evaluation. We have also device ways for the hospital to earn its own income so that we can cope up with the demands of the high occupancy rates of our patients. I am fortunate to have a top management and expanded man-com who are reliable, dedicated and committed to their work. Because they know that you’re sincere in what you’re doing, they always tow the line. I can delegate tasks to them and I do not need to micromanage. Whatever is the problem in their field, they solved it first before it comes to me. It has helped a lot that this was the way we managed the hospital. We meet to discuss the problems and out of that, we come up with policies for the hospital.

Medical waste treatment facility soon to open GEN. SANTOS CITY — The provincial government of Sarangani will soon employ the innovative Pyroclave, a non-incineration technology, to treat medical waste generated in the province and neighboring areas to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Rolando Tuballes, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office chief, said they are fast-tracking the construction of a temporary disposal site in the provincial capital of Alabel, where the medical waste treated by the Pyroclave technology will be disposed of.

“We already have the Pyroclave technology installed and ready to be used but we don’t have yet the disposal site. However, we are fast-tracking the construction of the temporary disposal site so we can start to treat medical wastes using such technology,” he said in a phone interview.

“It is urgent that we start the full commissioning of the Pyroclave technology to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in contaminated medical wastes,” he added.

According to him, the Department of Health (DOH) allowed the provincial government to establish a temporary

disposal facility to be used for a maximum of two years.

The province has already completed the environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Sarangani Medical Waste Treatment Facility (SMWTF) and its final version is expected to be submitted to the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) next week, Tuballes said.

The EIS is a requirement for the issuance of the environmental compliance certificate, a clearance that will allow the province to operate the SMWTF. Besides the P19.3 million Pyroclave technology, Tuballes said the SMWTF’s components include the construction of a sanitary landfill and wastewater facility.

Engr. Gerald Faciol, assistant Sarangani provincial administrator, said the SMWTF is one of the incomegenerating projects classified by the provincial government as a local economic enterprise. Bong Sarmiento

3 drug dealers up for prosecution

Cases have been filed against three drug dealers from whom anti-narcotics agents seized a total of P10.2 million worth of shabu in separate entrapment operations last week.

Juvenal Azurin, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao confirmed this Thursday to the Mindanao Cross via online Messenger.

“They are now awaiting their day in

court,” Azurin said.

Personnel of PDEABARMM first arrested cohorts Saidin Kamsa Campong and Salipudin Usop Campong after selling half a kilo of shabu to non-uniformed agents in a trade off in Barangay Poblacion 2 in Cotabato City last week.

Azurin initially placed then at P3.4 million their estimate of the shabu confiscated from the duo.

Azurin said the two suspects were entrapped in Purok Krislam in

Barangay Poblacion with the help of Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia GuianiSayadi and Col. Romel Javier, director of the city police.

Another largescale shabu dealer, Romie Diamillah Hadji Alawi, fell in a sting in Barangay Matalin in Malabang, Lanao del Sur about an hour after the arrest of the Campongs in Cotabato City.

The PDEA-BARMM team that entrapped Alawi confiscated from him P6.8

P9

I am the second female chief of hospital of CRMC and I was the youngest department chair. The first female chief before me was Dr. Ariadne G. Silongan.

There were no gender issues about me as a female medical chief. In this kind of job, you have to show command. You need to show them that you’re the boss.

Nobody can bully you especially when what you’re doing is for the good of the hospital. Although there were instances in the past when superiority comes in, it did not bother me at all. As long as you know what you are doing, you stick to what you know is right.

Getting funds for the hospital, requires great skills in lobbying. Hence, you have to prove that your hospital and your leadership is a worthy beneficiary of the project. When DOH Sec. Enrique Ona told us that they will pilot hospitals for modernization project, there were 70 DOH retained hospitals to choose from.

Three were chosen in Luzon, nobody from Visayas and we were the only one chosen in Mindanao. We had to prove ourselves to them that we can manage the project. Just by that we got the respect not only from the people from DOH, but also our colleagues in the medical society.

It’s the only one available. Perhaps 54.5 percent is better than zero percent, to quote the IATF. The vaccine is only recommended for those whose age is 18 to 59 years old. Beyond 59, senior citizens like me, it’s not recommended. Since AstraZeneca has arrived, senior citizens can avail of that. But for some senior health care workers I know, they have availed of the Sinovac even it’s not recommended for them. As for me, I have not taken any vaccine yet.

I’m tired of hearing,“Kaya pala ang hina mag-drive kasi babae ang driver.” And the very irksome, “Kaya siguro na-rape kasi ang landi niya.” Another one is, “Kaya binubugbog ng asawa kasi bungangera.” It’s 2021 and you still hear the same sentiments.

Of course not, that is where gender inequality comes in. Even when he’s against her daughter, Sara, running for election, we do not know if it’s just a ploy.

Afterall, women are brighter than the men.

Always empathize with your employees. Run the hospital like you run your household. Only spend for what is needed. See to it that everybody gets their fair share of benefits; that is number one. If you do not give your employees what is due to them, they will be disgruntled, they will not be committed to work, and not dedicated. This is the only way to let them know that change has come.

Inteview by Valerie Ann P. Lambo

DISTANCE LEARNING AT WORK. Leah Nain, 12, is photographed by a netizen answering her learning module while selling jicama or singkamas on Wednesday, March 10 in Kidapawan City. She dreams of becoming a nurse.

Photo courtesy of Butchoy Bacamante

No clues yet on murder of R12 cops PERSONNEL of the Regional Police Office-12 are still probing on the separate attacks last week in Tupi, South Cotabato and in General Santos City that left two policemen dead.

Brig. Gen. Michael John Dubria, director of PRO-12, said Wednesday their intelligence operatives have been mobilized to help investigators identify the culprits for immediate prosecution.

A policeman, Sgt. Reynante Espero, was killed while his two companions were wounded in an ambush in Barangay Pulonuling

in Tupi, South Cotabato on Friday morning, March 5.

Police Sergeants Jorex Velasco and Jerome Silvederio, who sustained gunshot wounds in different parts of their bodies, are now recuperating in a hospital.

The three policemen were riding a car together that gunmen trailing behind on another vehicle shot with pistols while motoring through a stretch of the KoronadalGeneral Santos Highway that straddles through pineapple plantations in Barangay Pulonuling far from houses.

The attack was preceded by the fatal shooting on March 4 of another policeman, Corporal Nasrudin Bansuan of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat while inside a restaurant in Gen. Santos City.

Bansuan’s killer casually walked out of the establishment after killing him instantly with two pistol shots to the head.

Dubria said the South Cotabato provincial police and the Tupi municipal police are cooperating in putting closure to the ambush incident in Barangay Pulonuling.

John Felix Unson