THE MINDANAO TODAY DECEMBER 23-24, 2022

‘All employers must give 13th month pay’

By Uriel Quilinguing Contributing Editor

This was the response of Albert Gutib, Department of Labor and Employment-10 regional director Tuesday, Dec. 20, when asked in a forum at a downtown mall in Cagayan de Oro how the

mandated 13th month pay be computed.

“Regardless of the (daily) minimum wage,” quipped Gutib, in obvious reference to a two-tranche Wage Order No. RX-21 – the first adjustment took effect

June 18 and the second was Friday (Dec. 16) last week.

If a worker under Wage Category 1 has rendered services for 309 days (except Sundays, excluding premiums on special working and regular holidays

Army: Fight vs lawless group goes on

By Claire Gigje

MARAWI CITY – The 103rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army continuously moves to counter the lawlessness of the Dawlah Islamiya Maute Group (DI-MG) which remains the main threat to Lanao del Sur's security.

103rd Infantry Brigade

DTI-10 seizes Christmas lights sans ICC stickers

By Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

A TOTAL of 266 Christmas lights have already been confiscated by the authorities since they started the monitoring of the said

products in the Northern Mindanao region.

Julie Nieva, Department of Trade and Industry-10 (DTI-10) information officer, said the number of Christmas light products were confiscated for hav-

ing no Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers and no proper markings.

The DTI provincial office of Misamis Oriental together with the Cagayan de Oro City Price Coordinating Council started the monitor-

ing of the said products in various business establishments in this city as early as November this year.

The DTI-10 assured to give the due process, where the violators were tasked to

The Department of Trade and Industry-Misamis Oriental and the Cagayan de Oro City Price

Coordinating Council conduct a joint monitoring of Christmas lights in 10 establishments in Cagayan de Oro City on Nov. 25 to check if the items being sold are in compliance with the safety regulations set by the government. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Information Agency-10)

regions

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

10ID bags campaign streamers for dismantling NPA units

DAVAO CITY – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) awarded on Wednesday the Army's 10th Infantry "Agila" Division (10ID) with 18 campaign streamers for dismantling nine communists New People’s Army (NPA) units in its area of responsibility.

In an interview, Capt. Mark Anthony Tito, 10ID

spokesperson, said AFP chief of staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro led the awarding ceremony during AFP's 87th Founding Anniversary held at GHQ Canopy at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

“It has a big impact on the 10ID because it symbolized the successful dismantling of the respective NPA in our area of

Bangsamoro gov’t approves P85.3B 2023 budget

COTABATO CITY – The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has approved the 2023 Bangsamoro Expenditure Program amounting to PHP85.3 billion with priority focus on education, health, infrastructure and social services.

The budget, contained in BTA Bill No. 54, was approved on third and final

reading Tuesday afternoon with 44 affirmative votes with no zero vote and no abstention.

“The BTA Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management (CFBM) truly underwent marathon hearings and scrutinized the proposed budgets of all ministries and offices to ensure that the budget is for the Bangsamoro

people," Member of Parliament Eduard Guerra, CFBM chair, said in a statement Wednesday.

“Following this approval, we will move forward with the implementation of all projects and programs in the provinces of the region, including the Special Geographic Area,” Guerra added.

The 2023 budget of

the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is higher by PHP5.5 billion compared to the PHP79.8 billion 2022 budget.

BARMM allocated PHP70.1 billion for all the ministries, agencies and offices while PHP15.2 billion is allotted for Special Purpose Funds. (Edwin Fernandez | PNA)

responsibility,” Tito said in an interview.

Campaign streamer awards are given to military units instrumental in the dismantling of the communist guerilla fronts (GFs), contributing to the AFP's strategic victory against the NPA.

Tito said the 10ID defeated two NPA vertical units, four sub-regional

committees (SRC), and three GFs, all under the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), this year.

He noted that Southern Mindanao used to be a stronghold for the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA due to the high levels of funding and manpower. (Che Palicte | PNA)

17 SGLG awardees in Caraga region get financial grant

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – The 17 local government units (LGUs) in the Caraga region conferred with the Seal of Good Local Governance Award (SGLG) have received their financial grants through the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

In a statement Wednes-

day, DILG 13 (Caraga) said each of the awardees received a financial grant of PHP5 million on Tuesday through the SGLG Incentive Fund (SGLGIF).

DILG-13 Director Lilibeth Famacion led the awarding ceremony, attended by officials of the 17 LGU awardees – one province, two cities, and 14 municipalities.

Agusan del Norte was the only provincial SGLG awardee in Caraga for this year, while the two cities were Surigao City in Surigao del Norte and Tandag City in Surigao del Sur.

The 14 towns are Santiago in Agusan del Norte; Talacogon, Trento, and Veruela in Agusan del Sur; Basilisa, Cagdianao, San Jose, and Tubajon in

NoCot power firm shifts to smart meter reading technology

By John Andrew Tabugoc

KIDAPAWAN CITY – The Cotabato Electric Cooperative (Cotelco) Incorporated kick-off here Tuesday the first phase of adopting automated meter reading devices in replacing the old kilowatt meter apparatus to Radio Frequency (RF)-ready indicators in the province.

Engr. Michael Mordeno, Cotelco technical manager, said the new RF-ready kilowatt meters are capable of

sending wireless accurate and real-time figures to the data center on the scheduled reading period which could eliminate errors and delays encountered on the on-site meter reading.

“Of course, this is due to some circumstances along the way considering the weather condition and the distance”, he explained.

The innovation is also in accordance with the Department of Energy’s roadmap for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), a system that con-

sists of smart meters and networks that facilitates measuring, collecting, and analyzing energy usage.

Smart meters allow for better monitoring of utility usage by customers and more efficient delivery of utilities.

“We have initially replaced some 300 old kWh meters to RF-ready meters in the area which will continue until all residential kWh meters will be replaced,” Mordeno said. (PNA)

NPA rebel wanted for arson, murder falls in Agusan Sur

BUTUAN CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel wanted for arson and murder was arrested by police operatives in Agusan del Sur.

Maj. Jennifer Ometer, chief of the Information Office of the Police Regional

Office (PRO) 13 (Caraga), identified Wednesday the arrested NPA rebel as Renald Mangalos, an alleged member of the Weakened Guerilla Front 14, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA. Mangalos, 50, was ar-

rested on Monday afternoon during a joint police and military operation in the hinterlands of Barangay Manat, Trento, Agusan del Sur.

In a separate statement, PRO-13 Director, Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, de -

scribed Mangalos as the top wanted NPA rebel in Agusan del Sur.

“Mangalos has two standing arrest warrants for arson and murder issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 55 in Trento, Agusan del Sur,” Labra said.

He said Mangalos was involved in the burning of two trucks in Bunawan in March, and was also identified as among the suspects in a shooting incident that transpired in the same town on May 7.

(Alexander Lopez| PNA)

the province of Dinagat Islands; Claver, Del Carmen, and Sison in Surigao del Norte; and Cagwait, Carmen, and Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur.(PNA)

3 nabbed, ‘hot’ fuel seized in Sulu bgy

Three persons were arrested while P832,000 worth of smuggled fuel were seized in an antismuggling operation in Sulu province, a police official said Wednesday.

Police identified the suspects as Saji Ella, boat skipper, and his two crewmen, Arilon Ansuk and Ella Jamil.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police CommandWestern Mindanao, said they were arrested in the seawaters of Barangay Mauboh, Patikul, Sulu at 3:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Verceles said personnel of the Sulu Maritime Police Station along with other police forces launched seaborne patrol after receiving information that smuggled petroleum products are set to be unloaded in the area.

(Teofilo Garcia, Jr.|PNA)

Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro (center), the AFP chief of staff, awards the six campaign streamers. (Photo from 10ID)

The BTA approves Tuesday (Dec. 20, 2022) the 2023 P85.3 billion Bangsamoro Expenditure Program. (BTA photo)

DILG-13 Director Lilibeth Famacion (2nd from left) leads the release of financial grants. (Photo courtesy of DILG-13)

ZAMBOANGA CITY –

Cotelco personnel verifies the uninstalled meters after the massive replacement of meters. (Photo courtesy of Cotelco)

GERRY J. CAÑO,

MARJUNE MILLIONES

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

JOHN

BANDO

Real joy

(1st of 2 parts)

ASACRED season typically filled with joy such as Christmas, may call our attention to the nature and the reasons for such happiness: Are we immersed in a joy caused by an increase in material abundance, or a joy caused by a rejuvenation of our spiritual souls?

Are we happy because of what we are receiving from others, or of what we are committed to continuously give to others?

Is our joy the result of a satiation of wishes and desires for the “here and now,” or is it in anticipation of a more glorious end for our world?

Like the Baptist who became the embodiment of vigilance in patiently waiting for the coming of the One who will help “the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers to be made clean, the deaf hear, the dead to be brought back to life, and the poor to hear the good news,” our Christmas joy must be filled with the same hope that one day, the kingdom of justice and peace will be accomplished.

all the oppressed to walk once more in dignity; all those forsaken to be made clean and brought back into normal social life; and all those in doubt to hear and understand the divine commandments of love and responsibility.”

And so, the wastelands brought about by our indifference, irresponsibility and evil, will be transformed.

Amid the barrenness of our alienation and discontent, we will “rejoice … and blossom, seeing the glory of our God … demanding justice.”

In returning to him, “vigor” will be given to “weary hands,” “strength to enfeebled knees,” and “courage … to those who are afraid.” Indeed, we ought to be happy, for we are looking forward to a beautiful consummation.

Defending the rights of children online

(1st of 2 parts)

ON Human Rights Day, everyone should have reflected on their life and dignity and if their rights are respected and upheld.

Those doing the upholding are human rights workers who stand for the oppressed and the poor. They are great people, Filipinos included, working in a world that is losing respect for human rights.

The dedicated defenders of human rights of the people and the environment are dying for their beliefs.

In the Philippines alone in 2020, there were 25 human rights activists killed according to the International Federation of Human Rights.

were killed in the Philippines in 2021.

However, 30 were killed in 2020. An estimated 270 people’s land defenders were killed in the Philippines between 2012 and 2021.

Many of the killings were related to protests against deforestation and mining corporations.

In fact, they are the true Filipino heroes standing up for the poor and the oppressed, the true Christians giving their lives for their friends.

No arrests, no evidence, no trials are needed by the authorities; just the nod of the chief and there is a police raid and a suspect is killed.

Most often, the fingerpointing is by an informant with no evidence.

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We experience real joy when we fully trust our Lord is continuing – and will continue until the end – to lovingly work with us in helping “all the oppressors to see the violence in their ways;

But it is also an end we have to work hard for; an end we can only achieve with the Spirit, if we persevere in “changing our hearts.” There is no other path to real joy. (To be continued) (LiCAS.news) (Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Bro. Jess Matias, a professed brother of the Secular Franciscan Order, was first published in the LiCAS.news website on Dec. 11, 2022. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

In the first six months of 2021, another 15 were assassinated.

The dedicated human rights workers are branded as rebels, subversives or terrorists.

They even become prime targets for the government-sponsored death squads.

Between 12,000 and 30,000 people have been killed in the “drug war.”

The government’s own data show more than 6,190 people were killed in police operations from 2016 to August 2021.

Global Witness reports that 19 environmentalists

This is ongoing and it must stop if the Philippine people are to be recognized as a civilized people with universal respect for human rights and dignity and live free of tyranny, fear, poverty and violence.

They must demand that their human rights are respected if ever the Philippines will become a true democracy.

Historically, a vastly wealthy dynastic fiefdom of conglomerates of ruling families and corporate moguls, numbering a few thousand, run the country and own 46 percent of the total wealth among them.

Remembering on International Human Rights Day

Would these be messages of love or messages of agony seeking justice? If we were to speak for them we would have the license of candor.

raging waters of a river in the mountains with only his white t-shirt with St. Therese’s portrait to identify him, or to a distressing discovery that is he is alive but forever damaged from years of torture.

(1st of 2 parts)

AS International Human Rights day approaches once again we are reminded to remember.

And remembering, to us families of victims of enforced disappearance, means recalling that we have failed in our search. The failure brings an intensified longing to end the uncertainty.

The torment of not knowing is one of the most difficult miseries to experience.

And yet, International Human Rights Day reminds us not to forget. This day, we give the disappeared the chance to be seen and heard.

If they were to “speak” to us, what would they say? If we were to “speak” to them, what would we say?

I want to be as faithful to what Jonas Burgos, my stolen son, was and is now and speak the words in his heart.

To do this, I must first acknowledge that he is not with me right now.

To acknowledge that he is not with me is easy, but to acknowledge that he will never return is not.

The uncertainty of what to think compounds the acceptance.

Should it be to accept the reality that he could be gone, which brings about a feeling of giving up or abandoning the lost, a betrayal of trust?

Or should it be to hope against hope that he will be returned or that he will find his way home?

One swings from a nagging dread of finding him dead, bones scattered in a shallow watery grave, or beneath

The fear of finding him in a pitiful condition evoking a “panic” state is amplified by the thought of what this would trigger among his brothers.

Up till now, a knock on the gate at an unlikely hour, would elicit an impossible expectation that he could be the one knocking.

And that I had to prepare his favorite dish. So there is still that small thread of hope.

It has been more than 15 years since Jonas was taken. To be in a suspended state of waiting 15 years is not easy.

At every incident of the search, I would either feel a throbbing anxiety that starts in the heart and ends with a dry throat and trembling hands or have that numb sensation where even the heart does not feel.

This happens as we are about to view a recovered heavily tortured victim’s remains.

ECONOMY

Camiguin’s economy rebounds, grows by 4.8% in 2021

CAMIGUIN – The economy of Camiguin posted a growth of 4.8% in 2021, a rebound from a -11.4 percent decline in the previous year.

In 2021, the Gross Provincial Domestic Product (GPDP) of Camiguin is valued at P10.3 billion from the 2020 level of P9.8 billion. However, the GPDP level in 2021 is still lower than the 2019 prepandemic level, valued at P11.1 billion.

The main contributors to the 2021 GPDP growth were: agriculture, forestry, and fishing, which grew by 9.7 percent; wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, which posted a

growth of 5.5 percent, and construction, recording a growth of 5.2 percent.

Major economic industries, namely: agriculture, forestry and fishing, industry, and services, all posted positive growth in 2021 with 9.7 percent, 5.0 percent, and 3.4 percent, respectively.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), established through Republic Act No. 10625, or The Philippine Statistical Act of 2013, is tasked, among others, to compile and maintain macroeconomic accounts and indicators, at the national and subnational level.

At the provincial level, the Provincial Product Accounts (PPA) is a

mechanism to measure the economic performance of the province or highly urbanized cities (HUCs) at a given time.

Since last year, the PSA has released annual provincial and HUC-level economic performance data based on the identified pilot provinces and HUCs.

The province of Camiguin is one of the pilot areas for PPA compilation starting in 2021.

For a full report, statistical tables, and visuals on the PPA releases, one may visit http://rsso10. psa.gov.ph/ or visit the PSA Regional Office or PSA Provincial offices. (PSA Camiguin | PIA-10 | Camiguin)

The

(PSA Camiguin)

SEC CDO signs MOA with DSWD-10 to boost advocacy programs

CAGAYAN DE ORO

CITY – The Securities and Exchange CommissionCagayan de Oro Extension Office (SEC CDOEO) signs a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Social Welfare and De-

velopment-10 (DSWD10) in pursuance to the Communication, Advocacy and Networks (SEC-CAN) campaign of the Commission, December 14, 2022 at the Regional Director’s Lounge, DSWD-10 Build-

ing, Masterson Avenue, Upper Carmen, here.

The agreement intends to ensure compliance of the reports of the nonstock corporations currently being supervised by DWSD-10.

Present in the signing ceremony were: SEC Director-Lawyer Frederick A. Enopia; SEC Supervising Administrative Officer, Jesher M. Radaza; DSWD-10 Regional Director Mr. Ramel F. Jamen; and DSWD-10 Assistant Regional Director for Operations Ronald Ryan R. Cui.

Through this partnership, the SEC-CDOEO is expected to provide assistance in the compliance of the annual reports of the associations supervised by DSWD to be submitted to the Commission and the registration to the SEC for those unregistered associations.

Also, the SEC wants to get in touch with the 4Ps scholars so they can learn about money and be aware of investment scams.

Enopia expresses his gratitude towards DSWD10 for accepting its offer to partner with the SEC in its on-going campaign to establish networks for the information drive with public and private agencies.

The SEC is looking forward to strengthening its relationship with its partner, since it is part of the Commission's job to keep an eye on the many groups that are connected to DSWD.

Jamen is also thankful for the collaboration,

which he sees as a good way to help the SEC register associations under the Sustainable Livelihood Program and its other subsidiaries, as well as to further its efforts to build people's skills.

The DSWD-10 is also proactive in including the SEC in its planning to outline its future activities for the coming years.

The SEC CDOEO continues to expand its collaboration with other agencies in order to improve information-driven initiatives, particularly for investor education and financial literacy, among other causes. (SEC CDOEO | PIA-10)

PGMO: Tourism industry bounces back amid Covid-19

By Jan Albert Araña

MISAMIS ORIENTAL

– The Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental (PGMO) tourism office is now beefing up the recovery measures of its tourism industry across municipalities and component cities to counter the losses incurred during the surge of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

As one of the worstaffected industries in the global health crisis, various tourist establishments

were forced to close, and people were laid off.

Despite the dent, Misamis Oriental Tourism Officer Lawyer Jeffrey Saclot disclosed that tourism in the province is now recovering from the adverse effect of the pandemic and moving forward to the new normal setting.

“Tourism industry is one of the hardest-hit industries in the occurrence of the Covid-19 pandemic, but we are happy to say that we are recovering,” he said.

With the pending conversion of the Laguindingan Airport into an international airport, the provincial government is now preparing the tourism industry as it expects an increase in foreign tourists due to increased accessibility.

As one of their key programs early next year, both the tourism office and the provincial engineering office will be busy developing identified tourist spots as part of the said preparation.

Also, the head of tourism said that different tourism businesses in the province haven't raised their entrance fees yet because they know how the pandemic has affected local tourists.

He also said that they told owners of tourist spots to improve their facilities and amenities before raising prices, so that tourists would have a good opinion of the place.

The provincial tourism office reminds all tourist enterprises in the province

to always prioritize the safety of their guests by following the minimum health protocol since COVID-19 is still in effect

and for those water-based establishments to always have lifeguards present.

(JAKA | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

Panguil Bay Bridge is now 61% complete: DPWH

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL – The construction of the 3.17-kilometer sea crossing bridge in northern Mindanao is now 61% complete, an official from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said, December 8.

In his report to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain said the construction of the multi-billion-peso bridge project is

ongoing and that contractors are exerting efforts to accelerate the process.

He said contractors are working to speed up the Panguil Bay Bridge Project's long list of superstructure construction tasks.

The longest sea-crossing bridge in northern Mindanao will connect the City of Tangub in Misamis Occidental to the Municipality of Tubod in Lanao del Norte.

“The bridge costing P7.375 billion, financed by a loan agreement between the Government of the Philippines and Korean Export Import Bank not only represents a long dream come true of the people of Lanao Del Norte and Misamis Occidental but a milestone highlighting how the design and construction of a modern bridge with sea offshore excavation depth of up to

more than 50 meters has evolved,” Sadain said in a statement.

The project, which began in February 2020, is part of DPWH’s continuing “Build Better More Program.”

Its construction was pushed back due to restrictions on work at the height of the pandemic. (DPWH | PIA-10 | Misamis Occidental)

GPDP of Camiguin is valued at P10.3 billion in 2021 from the 2020 level of P9.8 billion.

The agreement intends to ensure compliance of the reports of the non-stock corporations currently being supervised by DWSD-10. (Photo supplied)

Lawyer Jeffrey Saclot (left), Misamis Oriental provincial tourism officer. (JAKA | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

The Mindanao’s Longest Bridge called Panguil Bay Bridge is now 61% complete. (DPWH-10)

THERE’S nothing more fulfilling and joyful for a parent than having their children finish their studies.

Also, it would be the time to celebrate the glory and success behind the sacrifices and hardships of the parents in supporting their children.

This happened to the Timbangan Family of Barangay Kulaman, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

An active beneficiary under the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous Peoples (MCCTIP) of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) since 2014, the Timbangan Family struggles with the hardships brought about by poverty in the remote and hinterland barangay of Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

The Timbangan couple: Delma and Efraim, could hardly provide for the needs of their six children, who were all in school before the program reached their household.

Once homeless

The couple has experienced a lot of hardships and conflicts in raising their children.

In 2004, our third daughter, Blessy, got sick. She was admitted countless times for her cough until her parents couldn’t afford to take her to the hospital again.

“Her last admission left us nothing in our pockets. We could not buy her medicines. We were desperate. We have left no choice.

We sold our house,” told Delma, a Barangay Nutrition Scholar of Kulaman and the mother of the Timbangan siblings.

“Although the house we sold was not big nor as extravagant as that, it kept us warm from the cold and kept us safe from danger. But, unfortunately, after the discharge procedure, there was no house left for us to sleep in, recalled Delma.

The family sold the house for P10,000 only.

The incident forced the Timbangan Family to stay at their parent’s house.

Determined to improve well-being Delma and Efraim raised their children to be content with what they have and to be more understanding of their situation.

As the children experience hardships due to

FEATURES

poverty, they become more determined to work hard to improve their family’s life.

All of their children excel in school. They joined in various school and community activities.

This year, two elder siblings graduated from college. Dizzabel, 23, finished a bachelor’s degree

in Public Administration, while Claire Anne, 22, earned a degree in Sociology at Bukidnon State University.

With the graduation of their elder daughters, Delma and Efraim said God did not put all their efforts in vain. Instead, the achievement rewards their efforts in supporting their children.

Delma admitted that her family belonging to the Higaunon Tribe experienced a lot of failures in its quest to improve their well-being.

“My husband cried in silence without letting us know. As a wife, I know he suffered from the consequent failures we’ve experienced. But this doesn’t stop us from moving forward, especially since our family has now grown into a big one,” said Delma.

Herding her future: SAAD farmer bought lot, built house from goat raising income

By James Brian Flaga

“KANING lote ug payag, tungod sa kanding jud ni (The lot and this house, they’re from the goats).”

In Barangay Mahayahay, Maragusan, Narcisa Navales starts and ends her day herding goats. Mahayahay, a vegetable-producing barangay similar to the majority of Maragusan, is one of the farthest in the

municipality at an elevation of more than 1,100 meters above sea level.

The weather is temperate all year round, with downpours always expected on afternoons.

Together with her husband, Winnie, they till a two-hectare rolling land with vegetables, such as chayote, tomatoes, and Kentucky beans.

The mother of three also moonlights as a utility

worker for the barangay.

For two consecutive years, Ms. Navales was an individual beneficiary of the SAAD program’s Upgraded Goat Production. She got two does in 2019 and a buck and a doe in 2020.

The barangay’s topography provided plenty of grazing area for the livestock, which she took advantage of and slowly

The Timbangan Family of Kulaman, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon continues to improve their well-being by investing more in education and farming high-value crops. (Photo supplied)

Upgraded goats are hardy and pose better monetary rewards for individual beneficiaries within a year of distribution. (Photo supplied)

Narcisa Navales with some of the goats she is tending. (Photo supplied)

MINDANAO TODAY

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) — Your transmission may be stuck in reverse today, Aries. This doesn't mean you can't be productive. You may need to change your approach. Carefully assess a situation before you proceed. Someone may be trying to cross you. Be smart about your rebuttal. Headon combat isn't the best approach. Try reasoning. You may discover that there are pieces of the puzzle you didn't know about.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20) — Things should go well for you today, Taurus. There's an added serenity in the air that will help calm your nerves. There's no need to make things more complicated than necessary. The answers to things are actually quite simple. Everything you want is probably right at your fingertips. You don't need to go far to find what you seek.

GEMINI (May 21 -June 20) — It might seem like someone has dumped a bucket of water on your head today, Gemini. It seems like your fire is out. Keep in mind that this is only temporary and that your internal flame will be rekindled soon. For now, you may want to take this time to slow down and relax. Use this as an opportunity to reflect and tune in to your sensitive, caring nature. Let someone else take the reins.

CANCER (June 21 - J uly 22) — Tension may run high today as things come to a great emotional climax. It might seem as if everyone is out to get you, Cancer, but more than likely this paranoia is a figment of your imagination. Don't get carried away with crazy scenarios that have no basis in reality. People may be acting irrationally, so don't be surprised if reason and logic are nowhere to be found.

LEO (July 23 -Aug. 22) — More than likely you will be caught up in a wildly intense emotional drama if you aren't careful, Leo. Try to stay calm and collected. Find a quiet, solitary place where you can relax. Your energy is there, but it may be more reserved and subtle on a day like this. Be the stable oasis in the raging turmoil. Make peace with the people around you.

VIRGO (Aug 23 -Sep. 22) — You will find strength in your inner reserves today, Virgo. Don't hesitate to let your deepest thoughts shine through. Keep your antenna up. You will find that there's an electricity in the air that keeps people's emotions at peak level. Follow your instincts and keep in mind that this is probably your best defense against the challenges of the day. Rational thinking is overrated.

LIBRA (Sep. 23 -Oct. 22) — You may feel a bit sluggish today, Libra. Your warrior spirit would rather stay home on the couch than get up and fight. This is fine. You may simply need a break from your quest for world domination. Remember that a good leader also takes the time to sit back and reflect on recent events in order to make better plans for the future.

SCORPIO (Oct. 3 -Nov. 21) — Your sensitivity is strong today, Scorpio. You will find that your perception of situations is right on target with the truth of the matter. Keep in mind that in order to be successful, you won't need to strong-arm anyone into doing what you want. More than likely you will be able to accomplish more just by tuning in to your receptive, gentle nature.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 -Dec. 21) — You may feel a bit confused today. It might seem as if the wind has suddenly been taken out of your sails. Don't get discouraged by the slow weightiness of the day. Take the opportunity to relax and recharge your batteries. Do a bit of inward reflection as opposed to outerdirected movement. The most valuable lesson to learn is patience. Remind yourself of this throughout the day.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) — Today is an excellent day for you, Capricorn. You will be a welcome addition to any crowd. Your delightful nature is at its most active. You have the unique capability to be aggressive about getting what you want without disturbing the flow of the energy around you. People respect and honor your sensitive, nurturing qualities. This will win the game for you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) — The world probably isn't going to revolve around you today, Aquarius, so get used to it. Even though this may not be the news you want to hear, it's probably the news you most need to hear. Use your incredible passion to nurture others. Think less about yourself and more about the people around you, especially your family. Stick close to home and take care of chores.

PISCES ( Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) — Initiate a deep, meaningful conversation with someone you've lost touch with, Pisces. It could be that a long and ugly point of contention is on the brink of resolution. All you need to do is make the first move. There's a great deal of heartfelt, loving energy in the air that will help you foster a sensitive, tender approach. Find a connection with someone that you didn't know was there.

EMPLOYERS | from p1

and on overtime, he would be entitled to at least 9,761-peso 13th month pay.

“The 13th month pay must be given not later than December 24,” said the DOLE-10 head and such instruction was intended for employers, including those in micro and small enterprises, as long as the worker was employed for at least a month.

ARMY | from p1

Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer Lt. Col. Palawan Miondas reported that with their recent encounter against the militants in Maguing town, four sub-leaders were killed alongside seven other members.

He also brought up the incident in Marogong town wherein a terroristic plan was disrupted following an operation that dismantled the lair of the same group and resulted in the recovery

DTI | from p1 provide their explanation.

“We give due process to the violators. We give them an opportunity to explain. But if they are unable to present licenses on Christmas lights sold from the Bureau of Philippine Standards, we destroy the lights to avoid the items to be resold or used,” Nieva said in a text message on Thursday, December 22.

The 266 Christmas lights

SACRIFICES

Domestic helpers and family drivers are included in the 13th month pay, mandated under Presidential Decree No. 851.

Gutib, who also chairs the five-member Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in Northern Mindanao, said all employers are required to submit a report of 13th month pay compliance to the DOLE-10 not later than

of bomb-making paraphernalia such as the two-kilo fertilizer, more than 60 pcs 81mm mortar fuse and other improvised explosive devices.

Miondas further shared that also part of their campaign in eradicating terrorism is leading the Joint Law Enforcement Operations which strengthens the enforcement of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and initiated the filing of cases to terrorists and their supporters, serving warrants in tandem with the

were confiscated within Cagayan de Oro and there were no reported Christmas lights violators in the other provinces in the region.

On the other hand, the DTI-10 also said there were no confiscated fireworks and firecracker products so far in the region because of substandard concerns.

Engr. Emmanuel Plaza, DTI-10 development specialist, in a media forum on Thursday, December 22, said that even the agency

January 15, 2023.

He, however, clarified that the granting of 14th and 15th month pay is a matter of company policy, perhaps under a Collective Bargaining Agreement if the workers are unionized.

At present, the minimum wage per day in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan – including all other cities, except Oroquieta and Tangub under Wage Order No. RX-21 -- as well as

Philippine National Police counterparts.

He likewise mentioned their creation of the Joint Task Force Lanao del Sur whereby unified cooperation was encouraged among members of the security sector to provide swift action should there be security threats to address, especially in Marawi City.

With all their all-out effort, the 103rd Infantry Brigade maintained that the province of Lanao del Sur

has not been conducting inspection and audit as there was no local manufacturer situated in the region, the DTI-10 has been conducting joint monitoring together with their partnered agencies to ensure the safety of the products.

The said line agencies include the Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Health and the Philippine National Police.

“It is very significant the

in Tagoloan, Villanueva and Jasaan towns is P405 starting Dec. 16, this year when the second tranche of adjustment took effect.

Starting June 18, this year, the daily minimum wage – Under Wage Category 1 and 2 -- was P390 when the first tranche of P25 was granted under Wage Order No. RX-21, thus adjusting the P365 under Wage Order No. RX-20. (MT)

is generally peaceful at the current time.

“The situation in Marawi City is normal and the rest of the area of operations in Lanao del Sur are relatively peaceful,” said Miondas.

Meanwhile, the 1st Marine Brigade which also led the encounter in Marogong town vowed to work handin-hand with the 103rd Infantry Brigade in finally freeing Lanao del Sur province from terrorism. (CRG | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

safety [of the fireworks and firecrackers] to our consuming public and it can really impose danger to our properties and to our health,” Plaza said.

Plaza said the majority of the local manufacturers of fireworks and firecrackers are located in the Luzon area and the DTI has been conducting the inspection and audit to these manufacturers to ensure the safety and quality of the products. (MT)

| from p6

Fewer struggles due to MCCT-IP

The Timbangan couple considered the 4Ps’ MCCTIP a blessing to them. They now encountered fewer struggles in providing for the family’s daily needs.

The DSWD Field Office X placed the family under MCCT-IP in 2016.

“When we became a member of MCCT-IP, our situation began to improve. We now carry less load than

SAAD | from p6

increased the number in her herd.

Soon after, she started selling does and bucks she deemed dispensable.

“I sell does that don’t know how to take care of their kids…the police [assigned] here are some of my buyers. They would seek me, sometimes they really want those does that are already pregnant, so I would sell at a higher price. I also sell robust bucks at a price,” Ms. Navales related.

In Davao de Oro, liveweight selling prices of goats go at a minimum of P3,500 for a 15 kilograms (kg) doe.

“When I reached 6 does, I would sell two or three,” she said. “It [SAAD’s goat production project] helped. We started dreaming that we maybe could buy a lot.”

That dream turned into a goal Ms. Navales worked to achieve. In hilly and moun-

before. The Lord is indeed faithful and true to answer my prayers.

“It became more accessible for us to contact our daughters in the city after purchasing a keypad phone, as it was the best we could afford at that time.

The MCCT-IP release was the best time we were looking forward to the most, especially since we can’t afford to buy groceries and viands for the students at home and in the city daily,”

tainous areas like Mahayahay, farming lots are farflung, usually, an hour or so hike.

Getting a lot nearby the barangay’s center is practical for her work and her children’s schooling.

Mahayahay is the topmost barangay in one of many mountainous parts of Maragusan and accessibility to basic living resources means a significantly improved quality of life when compared to living in a farm lot away from the community.

It also decreases vulnerability to a potential brush with communist forces.

From 2020 up until writing, she has earned P95,500 from selling goats alone.

She sold 18 goats in total, averaging a little more than P5,300 each. Two does from the lot fetched an impressive price of P10,000 each.

“Katong daghan na amoang kanding gipangbaligya, gi-downan na namo

shared Delma.

The cash grant the family received augments the income from farming.

The family utilized the cash grant for their children’s studies and used the income from agricultural production for the family’s needs.

Efraim has been planting crops and used to intercrop rice, squash, and ginger. Also, he has been planting Falcata Trees and Abaca plants.

dayon ni nga lote” (When the number in the herd increased, we started regularly selling, and [from that] we put a downpayment to this lot), she declared. “Gianamanam namo. Kaning lote ug payag, kanding jud ni” (We worked on it steadily. The lot and this house, they’re from the goats).

The lot she and her husband bought was significantly closer to the barangay’s center than the one they till, only a few meters away from the barangay hall. It has an overlooking view of the greater Maragusan below. The lot set them back Php 30,000.

“Duha ni ka-lotehan, dies por dies. Kwaan siya, 200 square meters guro (The lot is divided into two 10 by 10, more or less 200 square meters in all).”

On the lot, Ms. Navales started building a house, with the same income from selling goats.

Momentarily, Efraim is making another venture into freshwater fish production or aquaculture. He grows the hatchlings of Tilapia and Carp.

During harvest, the couple would sell the catch to the market and leave some fish for the family’s consumption.

Northern Mindanao has a total of 178,098 active 4Ps households. Of this number, 37,708 families have IP affiliation. (DSWD-10)

Additionally, the money overarched to a downpayment for her son’s motorcycle. The eldest, at 14, goes to school in neighboring barangay Parasanon.

Believing in the importance of imparting the value of hard work, she shared that a kid is assigned to each of her children.

The motorcycle’s downpayment, P6,500, was all of her son’s income from the goat she entrusted him.

“When the does bear kids, I give one to each of them. The first kids from [the goats] SAAD gave, the money was used as downpayment for the motorcycle,” she said.

Her eldest uses the motorcycle as primary transport vehicle for schooling.

“That is yours [pertaining to the goat], take good care of it. You herd it in the morning before going to school,” she added. (JBRF | SAAD-11)

Oro village depicts German village as

By Jo Ann Sablad

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– Barangay Tablon won the P200,000 first prize in this year's “Christmas Village Around the World,” a contest wherein participating barangays create a Christmas village of the country assigned to them, with the centerpiece being the country's landmark.

Following the champion barangay, which depicted a stunning village surrounding the Brandenburg Gate in Germany, were Barangay Carmen (United Kingdom) in second place and Barangay Camamanan (Brazil) in third place, receiving P150,000 and P100,000, respectively. Each of the winning barangays also received a trophy.

According to Rene Sabanpan, Tablon's concept designer, he was able to put together the Christmas village after an extensive research on the culture of Germany, specifically the houses in the said country.

“I envisioned kung paano ko i-put up yung Christmas village from the landmark up to the village,” Sabanpan said.

Sabanpan, who has been participating in “Pasko de Oro” competitions for more than four years as the concept designer for “Paskorela,” said he could easily put together their Christmas village because he's been

setting up his own Christmas village at their home.

"Nagvi-villaging ako sa bahay kaya alam ko ang set up, saan ilagay yung mga lights, paano i-hide ang lights. Kaya hindi naging mahirap, yung concept ko lang kung anong gusto kong ipalabas sa entry ko,” Sabanpan said.

Tablon's entry is composed of a small-scale village surrounding the Brandenburg Gate from both sides. It has a commercial area, train stations, and wind mills situated at the top.

“Sa baba yung mga commercial areas. Makikita mo may police station, fire station, kasi ang village is not completed without the facilities. Village yan, from churches, hospitals, hindi lang bahay makikita mo if you're going to explore,” Sabanpan said.

A total of 11 barangays participated in the said competition, namely: Barangays Cugman (USA), Camaman-an (Brazil), Brgy. 17 (Mexico), Consolacion (Singapore), Puntod (Australia), Iponan (France), Carmen (United Kingdom), Gusa (Spain), Patag (Switzerland), Macasandig (India), and Tablon (Germany).

The entry of each of the above-mentioned barangays were displayed at the city's Plaza Divisoria. (JAS | Cagayan de Oro CIO/Photos by Rod Constantino-CIO)

Iligan City opens Christmas village as part of ‘Paskuhan Festival’

By Lou Ellen Antonio

ILIGAN CITY – The Christmas village located at the City Hall here officially opened to the public on Dec. 5 as part of the first Paskuhan Festival.

Local government unit offices set up their Kiddie Wonderland booths while barangays put up their Christmas trees and Belen (nativity scene).

About 30 schools around the city also participated in displaying their Christmas symbols or giant stars.

According to City Administrator Darwin Manubag, the goal of the festival is to highlight the colorful celebration of

Christmas and make the city hall a destination for the people.

“Kani nga mga efforts, ato kini gibuhat para mabibo ang atong pasko (These efforts, we are doing this to make our Christmas joyful.) To make sure every month the city hall will become a destination in itself,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mayor Frederick Siao shared his view on the essence of Christmas.

"It's about time to rise up for Iligan. It's about helping each other. Mao na ang essence sa kapaskuhan karon, kinahanglan nato tabangan ang katawhan. (That's the essence of the

holiday season now, we have to help the people),” he said.

Other competitions slated include Street Dancing Competition of Lights, Decorate and Light the Overpass Contest, and Light a Building Facade Contest. (LELA | PIA-10 | Lanao del Norte)

MOVIE GUIDE

All the Films You Need to See at the MMFF 2022

Deleter

THIS thriller tells the story of Lyra (Nadine Lustre), who works at an online content moderation office as a “deleter” or a person tasked with filtering graphic uploads from online platforms.

While Lyra seems unfazed by the disturbing

imagery she sees regularly, the truth is she’s hiding a deep trauma masked un-

Partners in Crime

IN this laugh-out-loud comedy, two exes (Vice Ganda and Ivana Alawi) unexpectedly cross paths only to get caught up in a crime.

der her apathetic expression. (SM Supermalls)

Together, they must find a way out of their dilemma—but not without encountering some crazy (and funny) hitches along the way. (SM Supermalls)

The team behind Barangay Tablon’s winning in the “Christmas Village Around the World” competition. (Rod Constantino | CIO)

Barangay Tablon wins “Christmas Village Around the World” competition, which it depicts a stunning village surrounding the Brandenburg Gate in Germany. (Rod Constantino | CIO)

Tablone’s entry depictsa stunning village surrounding the Brandenburg Gate in Germany. (Rod Constantino | CIO)

Iliganons flock to Buhanginan Hills to witness the opening of the Christmas village as part of the first Paskuhan Festival. (Lou Ellen Antonio | PIA-10 | Lanao del Norte)

Partner in Crime stars Vice Ganda and Ivana Alawi, and directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina. (Photo courtesy of SM Supermalls)