THE MINDANAO TODAY JANUARY 13-14, 2023

Fate of 21 PNP-10 top brass in limbo

By Uriel Quilinguing Contributing Editor

NOT one of the 21 top officials of the Philippine National Police 10 who have tendered courtesy resignations on Monday,

January 9, is certain of his employment status.

“For now, it’s status quo,” said Maj. Joann Navarro, spokesperson of PNP-10, in a forum at the Cagayan de Oro Press Club boardroom on Wednesday, January 11.

Navarro said Brig. Gen. Lawrence Coop, the PNP-10 regional director who, along with Brig. Gen. Benedicto Pintor led 19 police colonels in Monday’s simultaneous signing of resignation letters, have to stay put.

She said that although the letters of resignation were addressed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., yet these are sent to the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management.

Marcos leads in giving of gov’t help in NorMin

By Shaine Mae Nagtalon

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL

– Despite heavy rains caused by the low pressure area (LPA) and shear line, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. pushed through with his visit to Misamis Occidental and led the distribution of

BIR seizes P22.5M ‘hot’ cigarettes in Digos

By Eldie Aguirre

(BIR-11) here Thursday resulted in the confiscation of 820 master cases of various brands of cigarettes amounting to P22.5 million, a BIR

special investigator reported.

The cigarettes, recovered from a local warehouse registered to a person later found to be deceased, could have

come from Malaysia, the investigator said. He asked not to be named due to "some operational procedures."

Performers from all over Misamis Oriental show their best during the street dancing competition, a major event of the Kuyamis Festival 2023, held at the Misamis Oriental Integrated Sports Complex Thursday, Jan. 12. (Jigger Jerusalem | MT)

DIGOS CITY – An operation led by the Bureau of Internal Revenue in Davao Region

COTABATO CITY – The top police official in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and 15 police colonels tendered their courtesy resignation in support to the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) effort to cleanse the Philippine National Police (PNP) of

scalawags.

“I know, everyone was taken by surprise, but that was the appeal to all of us police generals and colonels and in support, we heeded the call to tender our courtesy resignation,” Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, BARMM police director, said Monday.

Guyguyon said his and

his subordinates’ decision to tender their resignation Sunday was to show commitment and cooperation with the ongoing PNP internal cleansing program.

“This is just to pave the way for an impartial investigation of those who are into illegal drugs. We remain in status quo,” he said.

A five-man committee

earlier was formed by the DILG to determine and make recommendations to the President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. who will go or stay in the police service.

Guyguyon, meanwhile, said he has never been into illegal activities since joining the national police force. (Edwin Fernandez | PNA)

1K TUPAD payees get P3.5M in Surigao Norte

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Not even bad weather can stop the government from distributing the payments to Surigao del Norte beneficiaries under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Facilitated by DOLESurigao del Norte and the office of Surigao del Norte

second district Representative Robert Ace Barbers, the release of the TUPAD payouts from Monday to Tuesday benefited at least 1,000 TUPAD workers in Surigao City and in the four towns of Surigao del Norte.

“The series of distribution activities were led by DOLE-13 Regional Director Joffrey Suyao and May Velonta, the Provincial Head of DOLE-SDN,” Anya Sollano of the DOLE-13 information office said in an interview

Promoted Zambo City cops get cash incentives, token

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The city government has extended monetary incentives and tokens to newly-promoted policemen during a ceremony led by Mayor John Dalipe Tuesday.

Dalipe administered the oath taking, donning of ranks, and handing over of the incentives to the police officers promoted to the next higher rank by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Each of the 338 promoted officers and personnel of the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) received P1,000 cash incentive and tokens.

The promoted ZCPO personnel included a major, 22 captains, two lieutenants, nine executive master sergeants, 27 chief master sergeants, 15 senior master sergeants, 68 master sergeants, 63 staff sergeants and 131 corporals.

Thirty-four policemen from the Isabela City Police

Station in Basilan, who joined the ceremony, also each received PHP1,000 cash incentive and tokens.

“This promotion marks not just your growth in your profession but also your acceptance of greater responsibilities for the good of Zamboanga City in terms of safety, public order, and security,” Dalipe said in his speech.

“As we move forward, I call you to remain true to the calling of service,” he added. (PNA)

Davao City serves 7K needy residents in 2022

By Che Palicte

their office decongest and shorten the queues for those who seek assistance.

Wednesday.

Some 1,225 beneficiaries in five other towns in Surigao del Norte, including Tubod, Mainit, Gigaquit, Bacuag, and San Francisco are expected to receive their PHP4,287,000 TUPAD payments next week, Sollano said.

Three more rounds of payouts will be scheduled in Surigao City next week covering around 664 beneficiaries with a total payment of P2,324,000. (PNA)

4 injured in Basilan encounter

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY –

A militiaman and three members of his family were wounded in a 30-minute clash with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Lamitan City, Basilan province, police and military officials said Monday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said the clash broke out when a group of Abu Sayyaf bandits attacked an Army detachment around 7:50 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Sabong.

DAVAO

CITY – At least 7,835 city residents benefited from the online services of the Lingap Para sa Mahirap Assistance Program here last year, an official said Friday.

In a radio interview, John Patrick Celis, the city’s Lingap program head, said the online platform has helped

The Lingap program aims to provide medical, laboratory, funeral, and hospital bill assistance to its residents.

For walk-in clients, Celis said the office receives an estimated 500 clients per day at its main center located at the Southern

Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) four other satellite offices are located in the districts of Marilog, Bunawan, Toril, and Paquibato.

"There are still many walk-in clients, and we endorse them online and teach them how to avail and process it online. Indeed, through the online Lingap, the process is faster," Celis said. (PNA)

Verceles identified the victims as Romy Mangkabung, 36, a militiaman; his wife, Hasma, 30; his daughter, Nasira, 22; and a 10-year-old nephew.

He said Mangkabung and his relatives were at the detachment of the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion. (PNA)

16 top ZamPen PNP execs tender courtesy resignation

ZAMBOANGA CITY –

Sixteen key officers of the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9) have tendered their courtesy resignations in support of the internal cleansing campaign of the Philippine

National Police (PNP).

In a statement Wednesday, Brig. Gen. Neil Alinsañgan, PRO-9 director, said the courtesy resignation was filed through the Regional Personnel Records and Management Division

on Monday.

Along with Alinsañgan, those who tendered their resignations include Brig. Gen. Gerardo Umayao, deputy regional director for administration, and 14 colonels holding key command

positions.

“Though the submission (of courtesy resignation) is voluntary in nature, all third-level officers of PRO-9 composed of two brigadier generals and 14 colonels submitted their letters (of res-

ignation),” Alinsañgan said.

All PRO-9 officials also took drug tests early this week and were found to be negative for illegal drug use, the police official said.

“The men and women of PRO-9 are in high spirits and

will continue to serve and protect the people of Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said. He said the PNP internal cleansing program is for the betterment of the organization as a whole. (Teofilo Garcia, Jr. | PNA)

Some 245 TUPAD beneficiaries in Taganaan, Surigao del Norte province receive their payments. (Photo courtesy of DOLE-SDN)

Police Regional OfficeBARMM Director Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon. (File photo courtesy of PROBARMM)

Mayor John Dalipe (center) congratulates one of the promoted policemen of the ZCPO. (Photo courtesy of ZCPO)

John Patrick Celis (wearing black jacket) head of the Lingap Para sa Mahirap Assistance Program. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

Residents, LGUs reminded to protect environment as floods hit LDN

by Lou Ellen Antonio

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte – Gov. Imelda Dela Cruz Quibranza urged the residents and local government units (LGUs) here to take measures to protect the environment by growing trees after the province suffered floods brought about by the trough of the low-pressure area (LPA), January 2.

“I just hope na it's a wake-up call natong tanan kay kinsa man ang nagdaot sa atong kinaiyahan. All of these [happened] because we abuse our environment. I appeal to the mayors that tree planting should be part of their activities. But it's not just to plant trees but to see if the trees have grown,” she said.

The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council-10 (RDRRMC-10) as of 3:00 a.m., January 9, reported there were 6,881 families or 25,142 individuals affected

by the flooding in the towns of Baroy, Kapatagan, Kolambugan, Lala, Magsaysay, Munai, Salvador, Tangcal, and Tubod.

Meanwhile, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office head Abeliza Cepe Manzano reminded the residents to be alert and follow the advice of the LGUs when they need to evacuate their homes.

“Kinahanglang maigmat ang tanan og unsa'y advice sa local officials. Kung pwede mamakwit na, bakwit na lang gyud ta. Dili ta magpaabot nga mutaas na ang tubig ayha pa magparescue,” she said.

(Everyone should be alert at all times and follow the advice of LGUs when there is a need to evacuate. Just evacuate, and do not wait for the water to rise before asking to be rescued)

The PDRRMC also met to discuss situation updates and interventions in assessing the province's damages. (LELA | PIA-10 | Lanao del Norte)

MisOcc guv provides free shuttle service to prov capitol employees

By Shaine Mae Nagtalon

OROQUIETA CITY – The Misamis Occidental Provincial Government, through the efforts of Gov. Henry Oaminal, provides free daily shuttle service for its employees living outside Oroquieta City to help them save on travel costs and provide convenience for their travel back and forth.

Oaminal, together with Rev. Father Alcher Boquia, led the blessing of the three new service buses at the Capitol Grounds on Monday, January 9, 2023, in the presence of board members, department heads, and oth-

er Capitol employees.

The governor thanked the Sangguniang Panlalawigan headed by Vice Governor Rowena Gutierrez and board members for the help and strong support of the Asenso administration saying, “What made it easier to buy the buses was the support of our Vice Gov. Weng Gutierrez, and board members through their joint approval of our budget in the province,” he said.

Last December 21, 2022, Oaminal held a consultation with the employees under the local government of the province, especially the Misamis Occidental Provincial Hospital (MOPH)

employees, to find out what their needs were in terms of the governor’s solution, and one of these was their transportation.

The provincial govern -

ment has shelled out P7.8 million for each bus to be used for free transportation for Capitol employees.

(SMRN | PIA-10 | Misamis Occidental)

By Claire Gigje

MARAWI CITY –

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

(BARMM) Chief Minister

Ahod Ebrahim congratulated retired general Carlito Galvez Jr. for assuming a new post in the government and being the head of the Department of National Defense (DND) now.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named Galvez as the current secretary of the DND, January 9, following the resignation of former OIC Jose Faustino Jr. Such was acclaimed by Ebrahim.

He stated that as a tested military official, the new defense chief has held different leadership roles during his stint in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Ebrahim mentioned that among his achievements was the liberation of the Islamic City of Marawi from the hands of the Dawlahinspired Maute Group.

To recall, the city went through a historic firefight that lasted for five months in 2017, and Galvez was seen playing a crucial role in ending this tragedy.

Now, the most affected area undergoes rehabilitation

Flood survivors in MisOr thankful for gov't aid

By Apipa Bagumbaran

GINGOOG CITY – Survivors of the recent flooding were thankful to the government for extending aid to them.

“I am very happy and thankful with the help I have received because I have nothing,” said Erminia Bernaldes during the distribution of P5,000 in cash assistance and food packs, January 11.

Bernaldes was also happy to personally get relief

assistance from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., who visited the city to check on the situation and assess the appropriate interventions needed.

Leah Beltran, whose house was also flooded, conveyed her joy at receiving the cash aid directly from the president.

“I am very grateful that President Bongbong Marcos came and personally handed over financial assistance and food packs to us, flood victims”," she said.

Bernaldes and Beltran were among the 1,500 beneficiaries that were given relief boxes and P5,000 in cash during the president's visit.

According to the local government of Gingoog, more than 57,000 individuals, or 18,452 families, in 45 barangays of the city were affected by the flooding caused by the shear line.

Meanwhile, Marcos assured the affected residents of Gingoog City that they would receive sufficient

assistance from the government.

“So we make sure that all of you who have not been able to return to your homes and are still here in the evacuation centers are supported, taken care of, have something to eat, and have somewhere to sleep. We will continue to work, and we will make sure that while you are here, you get all your needs met,” he said.

(APB | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

Lanao del Norte Gov. Imelda Dela Cruz-Quibranza leads the coordination meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to discuss situation updates and interventions in assessing the damages in the province. (PIO Lanao del Norte)

BARMM chief acclaims newly appointed defense chief

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (right) names OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (right) as the new defense chief. (Presidential Communications Office)

GERRY J. CAÑO, PHD President

MILLIONES

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AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

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Our common journey of faith

IT is a well-known fact that our human condition, oppressed by the pride and avarice behind sinful social structures, continues to wound so many of us to the point of despair and a sorrowful death.

We live unjustly, we die unjustly. It is a reality that continues to disturb us in modern times.

In his time and place in history, Jesus gave us the real image of the God of compassion, not of a God of indifference.

Jesus revealed to us the “God who cares,” and we who follow him intimately, profess and proclaim him as the “God who lives among us.”

Our service for the kingdom of God must consist of the Christian mission of continuing to reveal –as Jesus did – the God of compassion to all peoples for all time.

The tale of the journey of the Wise Men, is also the tale of our own journey of faith as humanity challenged yet destined to recognize and converge upon the Christ revealed as the true healer of nations, and the keeper of God’s aspired social order of justice and peace.

It is a story which proclaims a glorious end to injustice and oppression, and the dawn of the kingdom of God.

It is a story that gives hope to the aspiration that our lifelong service for the kingdom will not be in vain. But the journey of faith is and will not be easy.

Like the Wise Men, we have to travel through the deserts of desolation, through the cities of poverty, alienation and disillusionment.

We must endure the inescapable burden of our

human condition trapped in its own sinfulness.

However, we must not allow ourselves to be drowned in the modern abyss of depression, and we must tenaciously cling on and commit ourselves to “following the star,” our single-minded purpose of discovering the “God who cares” and uncovering the “God who liberates.”

Like the Wise Men, we will have to confront evil, in all its demonic faces of injustice, hatred and violence.

We may have misconceptions that evil is so obviously repugnant that it is not difficult to resist, yet we must be forewarned that evil is not ugly.

Evil is alluring to the perplexed mind, and tempting to the weak of heart. Evil is always a liar, a deceptive Herodian presence of power and wealth, which can actually pass itself as “being good.”

We must not fall, and we must remain steadfastly loyal to the Eucharistic presence of simplicity and humility.

And like the Wise Men, we will come to our journey’s end and we will achieve fulfill our purpose.

We will meet Christ, our “caregiver” and our “liberator.” And from him, we will learn how we can enlighten others by listening to his voice in prayer; how we can serve others in joy by challenging the selfishness of the world; and how we can die to ourselves in glory by bearing and burying its transgressions in the hope of eventual renewal.

With his guidance and protection, we will be strengthened for the fight; with his promise, we will return safely and triumphantly to our eternal home. (LiCAS.news)

Managing inflation

EARLIER this month, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) announced that inflation in December soared to 8.1 percent, the highest data since November 2008. The pickup was mainly brought about by the acceleration of costs in food, restaurants and accommodation services and housing.

This means that consumers will be paying more for the same goods and services previously afforded at a lower cost.

Often, the rise in income does not keep pace with inflation, consequently becoming a budget problem as it minimizes our power to purchase.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), however, said that last month’s inflation rate could have already reached its peak, consistent with the BSP’s target, “before decelerating in the succeeding months due to easing global oil and nonoil prices, negative base effects, and as the impact of BSP’s cumulative policy rate adjustments work its way to the economy.”

The central bank said that risks remain on the upside this year due to elevated global food prices caused by higher fertilizer prices and supply chain constraints, as well as trade restrictions in the domestic front.

Although this is the case, the BSP believes that these “are seen to be broadly balanced in 2024.”

The government, through the BSP, is already on top of the inflation situation. In the coming weeks, economists are expecting the BSP to deliver more rate hikes to bring the benchmark rate to at least 6 percent and help temper inflation.

Reportedly, the Marcos administration has extend-

ed the temporary tariff cuts on commodities including pork, rice, corn and coal, which would effectively augment supply and help lower costs.

As consumers, we too should empower ourselves with ways and means to survive the surge in inflation.

This includes basic habits such as budgeting wisely, pulling back from unnecessary expenditures, and if capable, investing in high-yielding assets such as bonds, stocks and real estate which offer far better yields than banks.

Looking for other streams of income could also help increase our purchasing capability.

If in case it is inevitable to spend on goods, be mindful of the budget, and stick to it.

The bottom line is, inflation makes basic costs on housing, energy, food and transportation, among others, more expensive for everyone.

If the daily budget is limited, it is crucial to create a strategy, cut costs on the things that we can live without.

On the part of the public and private sector, there is a huge opportunity to join forces and ramp up education and financial literacy to help Filipinos manage their own finances.

Understanding the basics will lead to a better and more strategic decisionmaking when it comes to finances.

In fact, early childhood education can provide individuals with a strong foundation on money management.

During the pandemic, those who were financially knowledgeable and prepared for any eventualities were able to survive and thrive.

Therefore, with regard to the process of liberation, the East is not clueless.

HAPPY Three Kings everyone! Asian peoples have a close affinity with this feast. Aloysius Pieris gives us this contextualized reflection.

The Gospel of Matthew (readings of the day) puts it in the form of three-act tragedy: search, disillusionment and discovery (Mt. 2: 1-12).

Act One: “We saw his start in the east and have come to do him homage.”

1. A light appeared in the East.

2. It was his light that they saw. Christ’s coming was revealed in the East before Jerusalem hears about it.

3. They recognize it as his light. 4. They recognize it as a sacramental pointer to a mystery that entices them to a deeper search; they are not content with the light and so they looked for its source.

5. Hence, the long journey to the deserts and lonely highways. The Orientals do not know any shortcuts; their way is tedious and ascetically demanding.

6. The light leads them westward, to a city on a mountain.

Act Two: Now Matthew brings the whole drama to a peak of irony, contrasting the seriousness of the Asian sages with the complacency of God’s priests in Jerusalem…

1. The light that shines in the East is not seen in the city on the mountain. Jerusalem is in the dark with regard to the birth of Christ.

2. It is from the Eastern sages that Jerusalem hears the good news (2: 2-3). It is through them that God reveals to God’s own people in Jerusalem that the divine is present in Christ. It is their inquiry that provokes the priests to read the scriptures further (2: 4-6).

3. The question that epitomizes the Asian quest is not “Who is he?” or

BARMM records lowest inflation rate in PH at 6.3%

MARAWI CITY – The Bangsamoro region maintained the lowest inflation rate record in the Philippines at 6.3 percent last December 2022, according to a report released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA-BARMM), January 10.

Both Region 12 or SOCCSKSARGEN and Region 4A or CALABARZON areas logged the second lowest inflation rate at 7.1 percent, Region 5 or the Bicol Region had the third lowest inflation rate at 7.2 percent; and Region 6 or the Western Visayas Region had the

highest inflation rate at 10.5 percent.

PSA-BARMM OIC Chief Statistical Specialist Edward Donald Eloja said the region’s inflation rate of 6.3 percent last December 2022 was slightly high compared to 6.0 percent in November 2022.

"The slight increase of an inflation rate to 0.3% in December compared to the previous month in the Bangsamoro region was primarily due to the increase in growths in the indices of two (2) commodity groups such as food and non-alcoholic beverages at 8.5 percent in

December compared to 7.6 percent in November; and housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels at 3.2 percent compared to 2.9 percent in November," Eloja explained.

"BARMM has recorded an average inflation rate of 4.1 percent in the entire year of 2022, while 1.9 percent average inflation rate compared in the year 2021," he added.

Among the provinces in BARMM, Lanao del Sur still recorded the highest inflation rate in December 2022 at 8.7%, followed by Tawi-Tawi at 7.3%, Basilan

at 6.6%, Sulu at 5.4%, and Maguindanao at 4.8%.

Cotabato City's inflation rate rose marginally to 5.3 percent in December, up from 4.2 percent in November.

Meanwhile, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Senior Research Specialist Zarinah Aligsao said the increase in inflation rate was primarily due to external factors, including the “war in Ukraine” and internal factors due to the high demand for commodities because of the yuletide season. (BIO | PIA Lanao del Sur)

USTP holds career networking to boost employment opportunities

By Irene Joy Dayo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– Aiming to provide more employment opportunities to their learners, the University of Science and Technology of the Southern Philippines (USTP) gathered industry partners and student leaders from Cagayan

de Oro City and Jasaan campuses for its Career Networking 2022, held January 10.

Career Services and GI-C Relations Director Lera Fay Cotiangco-de la Rama thanked the industry partners for their confirmation in the event, which is the first for this year.

During the event, industry partners engaged with student leaders by asking prepared questions to jumpstart the conversation.

Each student leader is given eight minutes to interact with the company before moving to another one.

The USTP Career Center gave tokens to student leaders who had the most engaged industry at the end

of two hours.

The USTP Career Center conducted this activity for student leaders to learn, spark connections with industry partner representatives, and build networks.

The services offered by the USTP Career Center include helping people find jobs, career peer coaching, career assessment, career counseling, an on-the-job

training program, and keeping a database of e-career portfolios.

Among the partners are Del Monte Philippines, Inc., Office of the Building Official, Factset Phil. Inc., Ororama Supercenter, Inc., Innovuze Solutions, Inc., Emerging Business Solutions, Syntactics Inc., HSI Technologies, Kaamulan Multipurpose Cooperative,

Oro Gadgets Inc., Northgate Hotel Ventures Inc. - Seda Centrio, Spruce Designer Network Inc., Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, Minergy Power Corporation, AGT Petroleum Corporation, A Brown Company Inc., Fligno Software Philippines Inc., RSpot Solution Inc., and Analog Devices Inc. (IJBD | PIA-10)

The Fraternal Order of Eagles

Globe Business, Palo Alto Networks utilize AI for cybersecurity

AS industries continue to adapt to hybrid work structures, the potential grows for cyber threats to spread across multiple digital spaces used by remote workers.

Yet with 91% of Filipinos favoring the work-fromanywhere setup, more and more businesses practicing hybrid work recognize the need to take a proactive approach to their organization’s cybersecurity.

With this in mind, Globe Business has dedicated itself to enhancing enterprise cybersecurity by partnering with Palo Alto Networks, the global cybersecurity leader.

“Globe Business redefines security by offering a formidable, end-to-end, and easy-to-use defense platform to help prevent attacks before they happen. Our partnership with Palo Alto Networks enables us to develop a solution that detects and helps to avoid these possible issues,” shared Francisco “Cocoy” Claravall, Vice President for Partner Ecosystem for Globe Business, Enterprise Group. Exposure to data breach-

es incurs damaging costs such as reputational harm and legal consequences, which can be prevented with proactive strategies and advanced solutions to counter cyberattacks.

However, while most security tools employ authentication processes before granting access to company devices or systems, threats commonly caused by human error can bypass standard security protocols that lead to harmful results.

Claravall added, “A data breach can be just one click away. Persistent hackers can circumvent set security measures and install malware or ransomware on multiple devices in a company. Our partnership with Palo Alto Networks enables us to leverage machine learning to analyze behavioral patterns across systems to help stop potential cyber threats.”

Globe Business Endpoint Detection Response (EDR) Solutions, powered by Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR, the industry's first extended detection and response

The Bangsamoro region maintained the lowest inflation rate record in the Philippines at 6.3 percent last December 2022. (Photo supplied)

The career networking was participated in by the student leaders from USTP-CDO and USTP-Jasaan. (USTP)

FEATURES

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

Group urges Marcos gov’t to hasten ratification of Basel Convention Ban amendment

THE environmental health and justice group EcoWaste Coalition urged the Marcos government anew to expedite the ratification of an international law prohibiting hazardous waste export from developed to developing countries, and to put a national waste import ban into effect.

As part of its commemoration of the Zero Waste Month this January, the group’s trustees and staff sent a letter last Friday to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Loyzaga to appeal for the expeditious ratification of the Basel Convention Ban Amendment.

The Basel Convention Ban Amendment, which entered into force on December 5, 2019, prohibits affluent countries belonging to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the European Union (EU) and Liechtenstein from exporting hazardous wastes to developing countries like the Philippines for any reason, including for reuse, recycling or recovery operations.

According to the group, the country’s ratification in 1993 of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal and current laws and regulations are not adequate to protect the national interest from

the damaging effects of the global waste trade to public health and the environment, citing high profile cases of illegal waste imports, especially those from Canada and South Korea.

“To protect our country from the illegal traffic of hazardous waste and other wastes, we request you, Mr. President, to ratify the Basel Convention Ban Amendment and to call and encourage the Senate to concur with the ratification of the same,” wrote the group.

Based on the cost-benefit study commissioned by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), "the overall beneficial impact of the Ban Amendment in the

Philippines outweighs the short-term costs."

The group further urged the government to completely and permanently ban all waste imports to send a clear and unequivocal message to waste traders and traffickers that exporting hazardous waste and other wastes to our country is now disallowed.

“The ratification of the Basel Convention Ban Amendment, the implementation of the Basel Convention Plastic Waste Amendments, and the national prohibition on waste importation, we believe, will offer our country with the formidable legal protection against the illegal traffic of hazardous and other wastes,” the group pointed

It is possible that there were other cases of foreign waste shipments not intercepted and returned to their sources, the group said. (Photo supplied) out.

Beyond these measures, the authorities should also tighten the monitoring of imports to ensure that no waste shipments enter our ports under false declarations, the group added.

In their letter, the group recalled the highly controversial waste shipments from Canada, which arrived in Manila in 2013-2014 and which were partially reexported to Vancouver City in 2019, rousing citizens’ awareness and abhorrence

against foreign waste dumping into the country.

As Senator of the 16th Congress, Marcos even filed a resolution “to investigate, in aid of legislation, the dumping of Canadian trash into the country, and institute measures to protect public health and environment against toxic and hazardous materials, and ensure environmentally sound waste management.”

In the years that followed, the Philippines again fell victim to illicit waste

shipments that were intercepted by customs authorities, including the massive 7,408 metric tons of contaminated plastic waste imports in 2018 from South Korea that were unloaded in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental and re-exported in batches to Pyeongtaek City in 20192020.

It is possible that there were other cases of foreign waste shipments not intercepted and returned to their sources, the group said. (PR | EcoWaste Coalition)

KonsultaMD makes early diabetes detection easier

DIABETES is among the highest causes of death in the Philippines, making early detection essential to avoid serious complications.

Still, many Filipinos lack access to proper resources to get the care they need.

Due to this pressing concern, leading health app KonsultaMD makes it easier for patients to take the first step to better health through the Diabetes Screening package, the newest addition to its line of tailored health packages targeting illnesses prevalent among Filipinos.

“We recognize the difficulties many people experience in finding the right tools to address their health problems. So we are helping them take the first step in achieving a healthier lifestyle,” said Cholo Tagaysay, KonsultaMD CEO.

“This new offer is perfect for those who may be at risk of diabetes or are experiencing symptoms consistent with diabetes,” he added.

The all-in-one screening package includes convenient at-home lab tests necessary in screening for

diabetes: FBS, CBC, CREA, Lipid Profile, Urinalysis, and HBA1C.

It also has a free video consultation with a doctor for lab test interpretation.

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Those interested can avail of the Diabetes Screening Package for only P3,999 through the KonsultaMD app.

Just input the code “KMDDiabetes” on the homepage to talk to a Concierge customer representative.

KonsultaMD offers accessible and affordable healthcare through its app.

It provides 24/7 on-demand doctor consultations via chat, video, and voice as well as access to e-Medical documents, diagnosis services, and mental health support, among others.

Download the app at use. konsulta.md/kmddiabetes.

To learn more about KonsultaMD, visit www.konsulta. md. (PR | Konsulta)

MINDANAO TODAY

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) — Doubts about business and financial matters might weigh on your mind now, Aries, so much so that they invade your dreams. The dreams are only a reflection of your worries - they aren't prophetic. Your situation is probably better than it seems on the surface. Lack of information clouds the issue. Check the facts and judge them for yourself before making yourself crazy.

TAURUS (Apr. 20- M ay 20) — A scheduling conflict may come up today, Taurus. A business engagement could interfere with a social event. You might doubt whether you can attend both, but if you plan carefully, it should be OK. Someone at home might not be communicative, which could cause a little worry. This person has issues they need to work out for themselves. Just be there if needed.

GEMINI (May 21 -June 20) — Confusing communications could be the pattern for today, Gemini. Some paperwork you need to do for a task might be delayed - hung up in the mail or filed in the wrong place. It might take a while to locate it, but it should turn up eventually. There might be some strange messages for you, and you may not be sure whether or not you should return the calls.

CANCER (June 21 -July 22) — Today you could doubt the amount of money you might get from a business transaction. If you can, verify this before starting anything. You aren't being told something. Personal relationships, particularly love and romance, should be stable and rewarding now, although today you may not have much time to spend with those you care about. Hang in there.

LEO (July 23 -Aug. 22) — Business transactions that could take place in your home or perhaps involve the home might seem a bit unclear today, Leo. Before agreeing to anything, read the fine print and verify all the facts about what you're signing. Use your intuition. It's very high at this time. Family members might be confused about events in their lives, but they'll get over it.

VIRGO (Aug 23 -Sep. 22) — ou might get a lot of mixed messages from friends, relatives, and colleagues, Virgo. They may say one thing while you sense that they mean something else. Insist on hearing how they really feel. This can prevent a lot of resentment later. New businesses could open in your neighborhood that you might want to check out. Take a look - especially if it's a new bookstore.

LIBRA (Sep. 23 -Oct. 22) — Today you might not feel secure about your financial situation, Libra, and get a little nervous. Disconcerting information in the news about the general state of the world economy might have planted some unsettling seeds in your mind. On the whole, you should be pretty financially stable now, and this trend is likely to continue. Check out the facts before giving in to panic.

SCORPIO (Oct. 3 -Nov. 21) — Some unsettling news about your work situation might reach you today and make you worried, Scorpio. You might question your future in this field and possibly consider a change. Consider it, by all means, but this isn't the day to make a final decision of any kind. Wait until you're in a more secure frame of mind. In the meantime, list your different options. This will get you back to reality.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 -Dec. 21) — You're a logical person, Sagittarius. When insights come to you through ESP, you tend to doubt their validity. Don't do this. If a feeling is particularly strong, go with it. Don't write it off because it seems illogical. Life isn't always predictable. If you give yourself permission, you can trust your intuition about nearly anything.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) —

Doubts about a friend's motives could plague you today, Capricorn. This person seems to be acting strangely and isn't communicating. This probably has little if anything to do with you. This person has issues that he or she is having trouble with. There are others who are in a better space whose company you will enjoy at this time. Get together and enjoy the amiable atmosphere.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) — A friend or family member might act strangely and seem distracted. You may wonder if he or she is upset with you. This probably isn't the case. This person has issues that need attention. Allow them some space. A romantic partner might have to break a date tonight. Spend the evening alone with a novel and look forward to the next get-together.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) — Too much reading might have you experiencing eyestrain and possibly headaches, Pisces. It might help to have your eyes checked, but it's probably just too much stress. You might have some trouble focusing on whatever work you do today, but this is only a temporary condition. You should be back to your normal self tomorrow. Stay home tonight, listen to music, and take it easy.

FATE | from p1

A Committee of Five is tasked to assist the PNP DPRM in evaluating the records of high-ranking PNP officials, the PNP-10 spokesperson said.

Navarro said the call of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos for resignations of PNP officials to pave the way for “cleansing”

MARCOS | from p1

various government assistance to affected families at The Working Congressman Sports Complex, Tudela, January 11.

The government gave more than P16 million in cash aid, which was given to 3,225 people from the town of Tudela, 1,850 people from the town of Clarin, and 1,203 people from the city of Oroquieta who were badly hurt by the heavy rains and flooding that started on December 26, 2022.

The flood-affected families received cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) worth

GLOBE | from p5

platform, enable security teams to block modern attacks.

By combining rich data and analytics, EDR can identify tactics and techniques deployed by attackers, hunt for malicious activities, and provide the visibility needed to investigate and respond to incidents.

Globe gives enterprises access to integrated NextGeneration Firewalls from Palo Alto Networks as organizations transition to a cloud-delivered

DOT | from p8

Frasco said the goal is to make travel seamless for all types of travelers, thus, the launching of the e-arrival pass together with the DOT, DICT, BI, BOQ, and DOH which integrates all the requirements of five government agencies into one platform.

“It makes travel as convenient as possible for any Filipino or tourist coming into the country by removing any barriers that would otherwise dissuade tourists from coming into the Philippines,” she said.

The Department also

PILARIO | from p4

“What is he?” but “Where is he?”, as if to say, “put us in contact with Christ, not with Christology,” for “we have come to do him homage.” (2:3). What satisfies their thirst is experience, not explanation.

4. Herod (who would not hesitate to kill the innocent in a moment of insecurity) and the whole of Jerusalem were

BIR | from p1

He said the warehouse, located in Barangay Tres de Mayo, has been used as a "front" for smuggling activities for some time, and that the son of the deceased owner may bear legal responsibility over the seized illicit goods.

BIR officers who took part in the operation said they will release Friday all information relating to the raid, including the identities of the suspects.

Earlier, Digos City Mayor

got mixed reactions, with PNP10 leadership supporting it – to clear their names from being linked to illegal drugs.

She said that those in the lower ranks expressed apprehensions the services of those with utmost integrity, honesty, and professionalism would be cut short.

Police officers who have been in the service for at least

P5,000 in cash and food packs.

Marcos assured the Misamisnons that his government will continue to provide assistance to those in need, such as relief goods, potable water, clothing, and temporary shelter for the evacuees.

"Nandiyan ang DSWD, nandiyan po lahat ng ating ahensya na maaari ninyong lapitan nang makasiguro kami na lahat ng mga pangangailangan ninyo ay naibibigay," he said.

(The DSWD is present, as are all of our agencies, so you can approach them to ensure that all of your needs are met)

Marcos also told the National Housing Authority (NHA) to

network security model.

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launched two of its newest tourism programs – the Philippine Travel Experience which would give tourists a window to discover the country’s tourism gems in over a hundred cities and more than a thousand municipalities by making it easy and convenient for them to book tour packages; and the Bisita, Be My Guest Program, wherein Filipinos can become ambassadors of tourism by providing incentives and exciting prizes to those who can successful bring foreign friends or relatives into the Philippines.

The DOT has also laid the groundwork for the Philippines

perturbed by the Good News. When Asia’s struggle to discover the ultimate source of liberation comes to fruition at the discovery of the West, with the news “The liberator is here,” it does not sound like good tidings to the establishment, both secular and religious. In such a situation, anything may be resorted to, in order to suppress the imminent liberation (2: 16).

Josef Cagas challenged the police and other law enforcement agencies to get rid of cigarette smuggling in the city.

Responding to reports that smuggling became rampant in the last few months of 2022, Cagas also called on the village chiefs of coastal barangays to keep a tight watch in their respective areas.

The mayor noted that some smugglers are using motorized boats to deliver their contraband. (PNA)

20 years are qualified to avail for optional retirement.

Nationwide, 956 high-ranking police officials have submitted courtesy resignations, so far.

Meanwhile, the PNP-10 spokesperson disclosed that 201 police commissioned officers (PCOs) in PNP-10 were granted one-rank promotions on Tuesday, January 10 – 23

find a place for people to move who lost their homes in the recent flooding.

"Nag-coordinate na kami sa National Housing Authority yung mga bahay na totally destroyed, hahanapan natin ng resettlement area para magkaroon ng tirahan. So ‘yan ang ating mga gagawin, sa darating na ilang linggo kaya’t asahan ho ninyo, kung mayroon kayong pangangailangan, nandito po si governor, nandito po si congressman, nandito po ang ating mga ahensya," he said.

(We are coordinating with the National Housing Authority to rebuild those houses that were totally destroyed. We will find a resettlement area

Philippines.

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Globe strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable

to be more tourism-competitive in Asia and the world through the establishment of one-stopshop tourist centers called Tourist Rest Areas (TRA) in 10 strategic locations across the country which are: Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon; Samal Island in Davao del Norte; Baguio in the Cordilleras; Dauis in Bohol; Saud in Ilocos Norte; and Carcar, Carmen, Medelin, and Moalboal in Cebu, and in January 2023, in Roxas in Palawan.

“Aside from diversifying our products in arts and film tourism, we are also developing the country’s existing tourism

5. Neither God’s word in the bible not God’s people in Jerusalem are the goal of the Asian pilgrimage. But they both are consulted in the course of the quest. They serve the pilgrims of Christ as sacraments inviting them to go beyond. In fact, the magi leave the holy city in order to find Christ.

6. The final scene: the sages from the East depart alone.

BARMM | from p3 that is nearly complete. Apart from the Marawi liberation, Ebrahim also cited the effort of Galvez in the creation of the Bangsamoro region, and his excellent supervision of the AFP Western Mindanao Command, the 6th Infantry Division in Central Mindanao, and the Government of the Philippines Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities together with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

With the assumption of

majors, 168 captains, and 10 lieutenants.

Also promoted were 1,872 non-commissioned officers (NCOs) composed of corporals, master sergeants, senior master sergeants, and chief master sergeants.

“They (PCOs and PNCOs) were supposed to be given one-rank promotions last year (2022),” Navarro said. (MT)

to build houses. So that's what we're going to do, in the coming weeks, so you can expect, if you need anything, that the governor is here, the congressman is here, and our agencies are here)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said there is a need to find an immediate solution to improve flood-control structures, which serve as the first line of defense against floods and overflowing rivers.

Meanwhile, once a relocation area is identified, the government will send construction materials so people can start constructing new homes, he added. (SMRN | PIA-10 | Misamis Occidental)

Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDG No. 9, which highlights the roles of infrastructure and innovation as crucial drivers of economic growth and development. Globe is committed to upholding the 10 United Nations Global Compact principles and 10 UN SDGs.

To know more about our Cybersecurity Solutions, visit our website or consult with your dedicated Globe Business Enterprise Account Manager today.

products including dive and marine sports tourism, education, health and cruise tourism, food and gastronomy tourism, culture and heritage tourism, MICE tourism and halal tourism,” she said.

The Tourism Secretary said she will also ensure the continuity of her listening tours, which have proven to be helpful in gathering the most important insights from industry stakeholders on the ground, with the intent of establishing an inclusive, collaborative, and consultative Tourism Department. (PR | DOT)

Jerusalem’s priests, custodians of the law, interpreters of revelation, guardians of tradition, and guides of Israel, would not join the Asians in their search for Christ, and consequently fail to participate in their discovery (2: 12).

Act Three: Discovery. The Asians’ tedious journey in pursuit of the liberator ends up in a laborer’s hut.

Galvez, Ebrahim hoped to continue the begun peace in his region and throughout Mindanao.

"We look forward to continuing our shared work to maintain peace in Mindanao and commit our support to his role," he said.

Before being appointed as the secretary of the DND, Galvez served as the chief of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU). (CRG | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur with reports from BARMM)

El Salvador City beauty crowned Miss Kuyamis 2023

By Jigger Jerusalem Associate Editor

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Zhydelle Anor Langala of El Salvador City bested other candidates and was adjudged as the Miss Kuyamis 2023.

Langala was crowned during the coronation night held at the Limketkai Center atrium, this city, Wednesday, Jan. 11.

Other winners of this year’s beautyand-brains pageant are: Mary Love Lopez of Talisayan (1st runner-up); Kriztine Claire de Guzman, Opol (2nd runnerup); Eri Rose Ong, Naawan (3rd runnerup); and Shenalyn Lauron, Gingoog City (4th runner-up).

In her panel interview, Langala gave this answer to the question thrown at her by the panelists: “A Miss Kuyamis woman is a person with a pure heart. I am here because I have a purpose to serve and to become an inspiration to people. Despite the bullying that I received, I learned to be tough and to forgive. I want people to believe in themselves that nothing is impossible.”

The Miss Kuyamis is one of the major events of the Kuyamis Festival, now on its 10th year and the first under the administration of Gov. Peter Unabia, which is celebrated by Misamis Oriental’s 23 municipalities and two cities.

This year’s Kuyamis Festival is also the first time that Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro has collaborated making the festivities inclusive, specifically in the sports tournaments where teams from the city government have participated in various games. (MT)

DOT lands on top 3 highest approval rating among government agencies

DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomes the Publicus Asia survey result which placed the tourism agency in the top 3 of government agencies with the highest approval ratings nationwide.

The survey, conducted between November 25 to 30, 2022 likewise ranked the DOT 8th in terms of trust rating from the public.

“We are grateful for the Filipino people’s positive response and support for the work we have done in the past 6 months to usher in the recovery of the tourism industry,” said Secretary Frasco.

“Guided by the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. for tourism to be a strong engine of socio-economic growth, we are optimistic that just as we have greatly exceeded our targets this year, 2023 will usher in more record-breaking numbers, translating to more

livelihood and employment opportunities for our fellow Filipinos. We are thankful for our continued partnership and collaboration with the hardworking men and women of the Philippine tourism industry from the public and private sectors across the country,” added the Tourism Secretary.

DOT’s targets for 2023

During the DOT's yearend media briefing held last Monday (December

19) at the Sheraton Hotel, Secretary Frasco disclosed that the DOT is targeting 4.8 million international visitors for 2023 as its baseline.

She said the Department is seeing its 2023 projections with full optimism, as the industry targets have been recalibrated after exceeding the targets before year-end.

The DOT had initially projected 1.7 million tourist arrivals this year, but the actual count recorded as of December 19 has reached

2.46 million guests.

The United States emerged as the country’s top tourist market with 461,967 visitors, followed by South Korea (387,780), Australia (122,971), Canada (112,015), the United Kingdom (93,440), Japan (91,557), Singapore (50,964), India (49,330), Malaysia (44,357), and Vietnam (37,028).

The Tourism Chief stressed that the Department will close the year with a promising trajectory of 2.5 million visitor arrivals accounting to close to 30 percent of the industry’s pre-pandemic arrivals data, when the Philippines recorded 8.3 million arrivals in 2019.

This, she said, “is a far cry from the 164,000 recorded in 2021.”

The Secretary added that the new projections are made with consideration of factors that are beyond the control of the Depart-

ment, such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, rising fuel prices, inflation, and the continued lockdowns in China which, for the longest time, has been the top tourist market of the Philippines.

“We look at it with optimism in a sense that our goal is to exceed our conservative projections in the same way that we have been able to exceed it this year,” Secretary Frasco said.

“And we feel that we would be able to exceed our pre-pandemic numbers way earlier than the 2025 year that was told to us when we assumed office with the improved policies under the Marcos administration,” she added.

Priority goals for 2023

Secretary Frasco said that part of the priority goals of the DOT for next year is fortifying its collaboration with other national government agencies and local government units (LGUs)

in developing the country’s tourism portfolio and exemplifying the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) by training 100,000 tourism workers, a highest record set by far for the industry.

The Tourism Secretary on Wednesday (December 20) also inked a formal partnership with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) to enhance the overall tourist experience at the established tourist centers around the country.

The partnership, she noted, would provide improved internet connectivity in at least 94 destinations all over the country, and more digitalized tourism services.

In fact, the removal of the One Health Pass and redundant health checks at the country’s biggest and busiest gateways, as earlier lobbied by the DOT, has become key to surpassing the tourism targets of the DOT.

(Photos courtesy of the Miss Kuyamis FB

Lawyer Jeffrey Saclot (left) poses with the Miss Kuyamis 2023 winners following the coronation at the Limketkai Center atrium Wednesday, Jan. 11. (Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Caudor Saclot)