THE MINDANAO TODAY FEBRUARY 20-21, 2023

REP. ZIA: LANAO

HAS NO ENEMIES Bro rules out ‘rido’ in Adiong’s ambush

By Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

AUTHORITIES are looking into all the possible angles to identify the real motive on the ambush of Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. that led to the death of four of his security escorts in Barangay Bato Bato, Maguing town of the same province Friday afternoon, Feb. 17.

However, Lanao del Sur Rep. Ziaur-Rahman Adiong, the governor’s brother, cited an indication that ‘rido’ might not be the motive as the wounded governor was onboard in a non-bulletproof vehicle when the ambush happened.

“The governor was riding in a non-bulletproof vehicle is an indication and proof that we don’t have any rido. He’s comfortable moving around the province,” Adiong said in a press conference in this city on Friday, February 18.

“That’s an indication that he felt that he did not need

to augment these security measures whenever he went around the province,” he added.

The location where the ambush happened is the usual route taken by the

governor, Rep. Adiong said, as the area is the fastest route to travel from Marawi City to Davao or Bukidnon direction.

Police initial investigation disclosed that the convoy of Governor Adiong was trav-

eling from Marawi City to Wao, Lanao del Sur when an unidentified number of assailants fired at the victims.

The governor was headed to Wao to celebrate the

Int’l NGO, CDO set to collab

By Jo Ann Sablad

RELIEF International is set to collaborate with the city government, through the City Health Office (CHO), in generating the data needed to help identify the cause of the recent low immunization coverage in Cagayan de Oro.

Janith

NorMin posts 8.4% inflation rate in Jan

Janith Aves, PSA-10 officer-in-charge, said the higher inflation rate in January this year was driven by higher

expenses on food and nonalcoholic beverages with an inflation rate of 12.1 percent;

Authorities secure the site where Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong and his security personnel were ambushed in Maguing town of the same province Friday afternoon, Feb. 17.

(Photo courtesy of Board Member Jeff Adiong of Lanao del Sur)

Aves, officer-in-charge of the Philippine Statistics Authority-10, answers questions from the media during the Northern Mindanao Inflation January 2023 press conference at the regional headquarters of PSA-10 in Cagayan de Oro City Friday, Feb. 17. (Franck Dick Rosete | Mindanao Today)

Mon-Tue, February 20-21, 2023

Cancer aid fund now accessible in Davao’s public hospital

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY – A fund that helps cancer patients is now available at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), a hospital official said Friday.

In a press briefing, Dr. Mae Dolendo, chair of the SPMC Integrated Cancer Care Committee, said the

Cancer Assistance Fund (CAF) can now be accessed by cancer patients as an additional form of assistance.

“The cancer assistance fund pays for radiation therapy, laboratories, imaging - CT scan, X-ray - blood transfusions are also being supported,” Dolendo said.

Dolendo added that the CAF is not only for patients

in public hospitals, but can also be availed by those who are in private medical facilities.

“There are requirements, such as a medical certificate, medical abstract, the usual requirements, because we really have to document it as we are responsible for the fund given to us,” she said.

Under Republic Act

Police destroy P5-M ‘weed’ plantation in Lanao del Sur

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY –

Authorities have destroyed some PHP5 million worth of fully grown marijuana plants in a remote village in Lanao del Sur, a top police official said Friday.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said the marijuana plantation was discovered in Barangay Bato-Bato, Maguing town.

No one was arrested as the cultivator, identified only as Tacmar, was not around when policemen swooped down on the plantation.

Members of the raiding team have uprooted and

burned some 25,000 fully grown marijuana plants planted in a 5,000-squaremeter lot.

Verceles said the existence of the marijuana plantation was uncovered based on information provided to the police by an informant.

He said the policemen also sprayed herbicide on the plantation site making it unsuitable for planting crops, specifically marijuana.

Last week, the police arrested two suspected bigtime drug traders at a checkpoint operation in the same village.

Seized from them were some 125 grams of suspected shabu worth PHP850,000. (PNA)

11215 or "An Act Institutionalizing a National Integrated Cancer Control Program and Appropriating Funds Therefor", cancer patients can now avail of as much as PHP150,000 worth of laboratory, radiology, and blood transfusion fees. (PNA)

Dinagat folk hit by ASF to get aid

BUTUAN CITY – Residents of a hog-raising village in Dinagat Islands province hit by the African swine fever (ASF) will receive financial aid from the provincial government, an official said Thursday.

“These affected swine raisers are confined in one area in Barangay Don Ruben in the town of San Jose,” said Dr. Aimee Jimeno, the provincial veterinarian, in an interview.

She noted that their office has so far identified some 35 swine raisers affected by the ASF setback, with the depopulation of hogs already initiated by the town government.

As agreed in the recent meeting, affected residents will receive PHP4,000 to PHP5,000 in financial aid and PHP1,000 for piglets.

(Alexander Lopez | PNA)

Construction starts for P325-M medical center on Siargao Island

Officials spearhead the groundbreaking of the Siargao Island Medical Center in Dapa, Surigao del Norte.

(PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

By Alexander Lopez

DAPA, Siargao Island –

Construction has begun for the PHP325 million modern medical center on this island in Surigao del Norte province, an official said Friday.

“Our impossible dream is now a reality. I thought that the legislative measure to convert the Siargao District Hospital (SDH) to Siargao Island Medical Center (SIMC) will not push through because of the pan-

demic,” Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco Jose Matugas II said.

On Thursday, House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez led the groundbreaking ceremony for the SIMC in this town, together with Department of Health (DOH) Officer-in-Charge Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire and Matugas.

House Deputy Speaker Rep. Vincent Franco Frasco, Majority Leader Manuel

Jose Dalipe, and Presidential son Vinny Marcos also joined the local officials and island residents during the activity.

On Nov. 30, 2020, a proposed measure was filed by Matugas to upgrade the SDH into a level II general hospital with a 100-bed capacity.

On Feb. 11, 2021, thenPresident Rodrigo R. Duterte signed into law Republic Act 11500 converting the SDH into the SIMC. (PNA)

VP Sara ‘excited’ to grace Araw ng Dabaw festivities

DAVAO CITY – Vice President Sara Z. Duterte has confirmed that she will be attending the celebration of the 86th Araw ng Dabaw next month.

In an interview Thursday, Duterte said that this early she is excited to join the face-to-face festivities after three years of conduct-

ing the event via online.

"As a Dabawenya, I am excited to celebrate the Araw ng Dabaw after the pandemic, and yes, I already committed to attend the Parada Dabawenyo," the former Davao City mayor said.

According to the Vice President, the Parada Dabawenyo which will be hap-

pening on March 18 this year, has been a tradition for her to meet and greet with Dabawenyos and guests.

"Even when I was still the mayor, this event allowed me to have fun, meet, greet and thank the Dabawenyos, especially for their support to the local government," Duterte said.

Meanwhile, the Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) said that Dabawenyos who wanted to join the Parada Dabawenyo 2023 as a contingent can now access the forms online or can personally come to their office. (Che Palicte | PNA)

Policemen destroy a marijuana plantation in Barangay Bato-Bato, Maguing, Lanao del Sur. (Photo courtesy of Area Police Command-Western Mindanao)

Dr. Mae Dolendo, chair of the SPMC Integrated Cancer Care Committee. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte (PNA file photo)

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

RDRRMC-10 : PDNA, RRP to fast-track shear line damage recovery in NorMin

By Vincent Bautista

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council-10 (RDRRMC-10)

held a special full council meeting, February 16, to present the results of its regional post-disaster needs assessment (PDNA) for areas affected by the shear line last December 2022, which caused heavy rain, flooding, and strong gusts in northern Mindanao.

"We have this meeting to present the result of the PDNA conducted and the rehabilitation and recovery plan relative to the shear line, a weather phenomenon that brought havoc to some communities in our region last December," said Antonio Sugarol, Office of

Civil Defense-10 regional director and RDRRMC-10 chairperson.

The RDRRMC-10 intends to assess the impact of the disaster's damages and losses through the PDNA in order to define a recovery strategy, including the estimation of financial resources and mobilization of various programs.

Based on the PDNA results, the total estimated damage from the shear line across all sectors was around P1,423,116,600.53, while the total estimated losses to the economy reached P260,792,077.13.

A total of 203,063 individuals or 51,692 families from 320 barangays in Northern Mindanao were also affected.

ño, RDRMMC-10 vice chairperson and National Economic and Development Authority-10 regional director, moved for the approval and endorsement of region-10’s Rehabilitation and Recovery Programs, which consist of 32 strategies, 5 sector outcomes, and P3.226 billion in required investments in conjunction and harmonization with the PDNA to fast track the government’s rehabilitation and recovery efforts while also building resiliency mechanisms.

“It is really important for us to follow the "build back better" principle, so we have resilient communities and resilient individuals that can easily bounce back every disaster,” Cariño said. (VPSB |

PIA-10)

Child-friendly police stations in Oro hailed

By Irene Joy Dayo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– Some police stations here were awarded the Seal of Child-Friendly Police Stations during Pasundayag 2023 by the Oro Youth Development Office Feb. 11.

Nine police stations received the Oro Kasanag Awards. Police Station

5-Macabalan received the highest value of performance among the stations.

It received a Three-Star Excellence Performance Award, an award given to those who have ratings of 86% to 95%.

A two-star satisfactory performance award with ratings of 76% to 85% is given to Police Station

6-Puerto, Police Station

10-Cugman, Police Station

9-Nazareth, and Police Station 1-Divisoria. The Police Station 4-Carmen, the Police Station 8-Lumbia, the Police Station 3-Agora, and the Police Station 2-Cogon, on the other hand, received the One-Star Good Performance Award.

The One-Star Good Performance Award is given to stations that got ratings of 60% to 75%.

This campaign ran from October 2022 to January 2023. It was led by young people and served as the annual social audit for police stations.

The goal was to keep the child-friendly efforts and initiatives going so that the city could continue to promote children's rights and welfare.

Oro Youth Development Office Officer-in-Charge

Lord Saver D. Centina said that this initiative started in 2015, which was first dubbed as the award for the most child-friendly police station.

“The search was just escalated last year, and we tweaked it to the Seal of Child-Friendly Police Station, believing that all police stations are actually childfriendly,” he said, adding that people witnessed the awarding of the One-Star to Three-Star Seal. He is hopeful that next year, CDO will get the 5-Star award.

City Councilor John Michael Seno, who’s also the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) federation president, thanked the police stations for their participation in the search.

He recognized their efforts in the promotion of the rights and welfare of children in Cagayan de Oro City.

Aside from the seals, OYDO also presented special awards to the Police Station 6 in Puerto, the Divisoria Police Station for the Best in Child-Friendly Space, the Macabalan Police Station for the Best in Monitoring and Evaluation, Nazareth for the Best in Information and Advocacy, and the Lumbia Police Station for the Best in Information and Advocacy. The Hall of Famer award was also given to Barangay Pagatpat.

Similarly, Outstanding Women and Children Protection Desk Officers are also awarded, namely, PSg Rose A. Pulmones, PSg Leah Marie G. Licayan, and PSg Meralyn G. Francisco.

This Oro Kasanag Awards 2022: Seal of Most Childfriendly Police Stations is conducted together with the Cagayan de Oro Police Office, World Vision Foundation, Inc., Philippine Island Kids Foundation, Inc., Gugma sa Kabataan, and Balaod Mindanaw. (IJBD | PIA-10)

Mylah Faye Aurora Cari-

Police stations in Cagayan de Oro City were awarded the Seal of Child-Friendly Police Stations. (Kim D. Zaldivar)

Mon-Tue, February 20-21, 2023

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AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

The ‘Judges for Justice’ that save children

(3rd of 3 parts)

ONE day, social workers from the Preda Foundation came. Preda is a government-accredited organization to care for abused children.

The Preda social workers had the court order of a compassionate judge for the transfer of custody of some boys.

They were freed from the filthy cell and were brought to a home for CICL, a sanctuary of peace, freedom and healing.

Enrico, Jose and another boy arrived at the Preda home for boys in a beautiful setting where they were free to roam, run and play under the blue sky, set free like birds from a cage.

Here, they were treated with respect and care and would find dignity and a new happier life in an open center without guards, fences or walls.

They were trusted, respected and persuaded by the professional staff to choose a new life.

The boys carried much childhood hurt and pain inside of not being loved and cared for by their parents, some had been abused as children.

They choose to have therapy sessions. In the padded therapy room, they shouted and cried out their anger, hurt and pain during the Emotional Release Therapy.

They recovered and were healed as were the other boys. They became young people with values and were determined to succeed in a

The wisdom of Divine Love

(1st of 2 parts)

good life.

If all the cruel detention centers for children could be converted to open homes with professional therapists and not armed guards, if the CICL were treated with kindness and compassion and not punishment, with understanding and goodness instead of cruelty and torture, and the law was not in conflict with them, there would be a great transformation of the youth of the Philippines.

If only more judges and local government officials could be more compassionate and be determined to heal, not punish the troubled youth, they would respect the rights of the youth and provide educational homes for the CICL where they grow.

They would have therapy and respect instead of harsh punishment. They would respect authority figures and receive skills training and self-discipline and spiritual values that they would teach their children.

They would find greater meaning and purpose and embrace a life of dignity and value and the compassionate judges and social workers would be helping and serving and changing the lives of troubled youth for the better.

What is needed is compassion, diversion and more direct action for justice and human rights. (LiCAS.news)

(Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Irish Columban priest Shay Cullen, was first published in the LiCAS. news website on Feb. 12, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS. news editors.)

IN today’s epistle to the Corinthians, the Apostle speaks of a “wisdom to the mature in faith, although it is not a wisdom of this world or of its rulers.”

It is a “mystery … which God destined from the beginning, to bring us to glory,” a paradoxical wisdom in which fullness is attained through a radical self-emptying, in which “receiving” is actually “giving,” in which a “death to the self” leads to “life.”

This is the wisdom of divine love, the wisdom of the heavenly Father embodied in the loving deeds of the Incarnated Christ, most especially for those who are being left behind.

It is not a wisdom in the knowledge of all things nor in the pursuit of such knowledge, but in the responsibility for the sustainability of all creation.

It is a wisdom “revealed to us, through his Spirit” firmly embodied in our loving deeds, in succession for those exemplified by our risen Lord, most especially for those who are being left behind in our space and time in history.

It is a wisdom founded on a strong and faithful relationship with him, whose reign, and with whose grace, we must be determined to achieve.

It is the wisdom of a love in which hatred

and slander are already morally equivalent, and not at a much lesser degree, to murder; of a love expressed in a worship which engenders only peace and all good.

It is the wisdom of a love in which impure thoughts and intentions are already morally equivalent, and not at a much lesser degree, to impure words and actions; of a love expressed in both an avoidance of the corruption as well as in a dedication of one’s self to service for others, and not to pleasure from others.

It is the wisdom of a love in which “the pursuit of happiness” is not simply every person’s right, but also every person’s responsibility; of a love expressed unconditionally through daily struggles with patience and humility, in the hope that everybody becomes a better human being.

It is the wisdom of a love persevering in being honest towards and worthy of trust by others; of a love expressed in sensible reasoning, straightforward speech and dependable actions. (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 Feb. 12, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

features Spanish influence in Philippine culture

as the Front Lawn, Liwasang Kalikasan, Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez and its surroundings, and the parade grounds of Vicente Sotto Street.

THE grounds of the Cultural Center of the Philippines became a venue of the showcase of Spanish-influenced dances, songs, and costumes during the Pasinaya Open House Festival.

“Pasinaya” means an inauguration or a grand opening of the many arts and cultural presentations offered by the CCP.

Pasinaya aims to provide a platform for artists and cultural groups from different fields, such as music, theater, dance, spoken word, and visual arts.

It seeks to showcase talents while nurturing the broadest public and creating new audiences through interactions and performances.

With the “experience-all-you-can, pay-what-you-can” scheme, the largest multi-arts festival in the country once again filled various venues of CCP, such

The theaters inside the CCP were not used due to the closing of the iconic 53-year-old main building in January for a three-year renovation project.

This year’s theme of the “Pasinaya” is “Piglas Sining,” which CCP artistic director Dennis Marasigan described as a “breaking away from the notion that the CCP is just the building.”

“We are emphasizing that CCP can be anywhere,” he said.

“Pasinaya” returned onsite last February 3 to 5, 2023, after being cancelled as a face-to-face gathering for three years because of the pandemic.

At least 3,000 artists participated in the 75 performances of 89 groups from Baguio to Tawi-tawi with more than 21,000 people in the audience.

I overheard many students saying that they were amazed seeing the performers in Spanish-influenced costumes popularied by the television

series “Maria Clara at Ibarra.”

Directed by Zig Dulay, the series is based on José Rizal’s novels Noli Me Tángere (Touch Me Not, 1887) and El Filibusterismo (The Subversive, 1891).

Noli centered on the atrocities done by priests during the Spanish era and the abuses that occurred in society when the country was still under Spanish rule. In Fili, Crisóstomo Ibarra returns for vengeance as Simoun.

Noli described Philippine society with its memorable characters — the melancholic fate of Maria Clara and the insanity of Sisa characterized the country’s pitiful state.

El Fili’s dark theme departs dramatically from Noli’s hopeful and romantic atmosphere.

It signifies Simoun’s resort to solving his country’s issues through violent means after his previous attempt in reforming the country’s educational system.

“Pasinaya” featured Spanish dances, such as the waltz, mazurka, the Spanish jota, paso doble, and others with costumes that were transformed to suit the climate and the temperament of the people.

‘Pasinaya’

DOLE NorMin recognizes 2022 PESOMAP-10 accomplishments

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– To strengthen and empower the region's Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers and Job Placement Officers (JPOs), the Department of Labor and Employment-10 (DOLE10) conducted the 2022 Regional DOLE-10 and PESO/ JPO Year-End Performance Assessment (YEPA), Planning and Target Setting, and Learning Sessions on 2023 Employment Activities Cum Recognition Night at Chali Beach Resort, here.

Spearheaded by Albert Gutib, DOLE-10 regional director, through the Bureau of Local Employment team of the Technical Support and Services Division, the activity also aimed to measure the performance of the PESOs and JPOs for the year 2022 and provide a venue to open opportunities for improvement in the delivery of employment programs and services in the

local government units and school-based job facilitation activities.

“This two-day activity is an opportunity to learn new knowledge, exchange information on good practices in employment facilitation services, and disseminate current labor market trends that include significant program developments,” Gutib said.

He also acknowledged the contributions of PESOs and JPOs, the participation of the LGUs, private partners, and other stakeholders in the implementation of various programs of DOLE like TUPAD, Livelihood, and GIPs that provide employment in the community.

Issues and concerns were also addressed, followed by action planning and target setting for CY 2023 presented by Hannah Marie Arreza, planning officer.

Meanwhile, Estrella Pahalla, DOLE-10 assistant

regional director, welcomed the delegates to the activity, saying, “As we learn together, we continue to work as one in the interest of improving the employment situation in this region through each and everyone’s efforts. Let’s enjoy while we work; together we can be better. Yesterday, we were always better than today.”

An oath-taking ceremony for the 2023–2025 new set of Public Employment Service Office Managers Association of the Philippines-10 (PESOMAP-10) officers was also one of the highlights of the PESO Year-End Performance Assessment (YEPA) 2022, followed by a turnover ceremony between Kathleen Kate Sorilla, the outgoing PESOMAP president, and Ma. Corazon Descallar, the incoming PESOMAP, Inc. president for CY 2023–2025.

Special citations and monetary incentives for ser-

SM CDO malls debut EV charging stations

CAGAYAN DE ORO

CITY – Fulfilling its duty to the community by helping build a greener environment, SM Supermalls launched two evehicle charging stations in Cagayan de Oro City, located in the 2nd-floor car park at SM CDO Uptown and SM Downtown Premiere, which can be used from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

“SM fast forwards to the future with the launch of the E-vehicle charging station. This initiative supports the SM Green Movement that enables more Filipinos to make sustainable lifestyle choices, including E-vehicles. This promotes a more sustainable and cleaner alternative form of transportation that is supported, encouraged, and made even more accessible by

MARAWI CITY – Government employees from various BARMM ministries, offices, and agencies were oriented on how to effectively and efficiently use government resources, February 6.

The Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Management (MFBM) led the orientation on the Omnibus Guidelines

the government,” said Joey Tumolva, SM Supermalls Mindanao regional operation manager, said.

The charging station is the result of SM's partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DOST), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to accelerate the government’s sustainability initiatives.

DOST-10 commended SM for its initiative in establishing the first echarging stations in the city. It showed how important it was to fight climate change and reduce carbon footprints by being one of the first companies in Cagayan de Oro to offer

electric vehicles.

The DOST-10 has also developed an electric vehicle charging station that is now ready for commercial use.

“In DOST, we have developed our own electric vehicle charging system station and it is ready for commercial use. We call them CHARM, or Charging in Minutes. It is a fast-charging system with lithium-ion battery storage technology,” said John Michael Semilla, DOST-10 science research specialist 2.

With the new e-charging stations in place, SM affirms its commitment to the public that it will always strive to ramp up its efforts to give back to the community through sustainability-driven projects in its malls nationwide.

(Jan Albert Araña | PIA-10)

vice awards for PESO managers and JPOs were given as tokens for their efforts to deliver what is expected in ensuring the best quality services the public deserves.

Gutib further commended all the incoming and outgoing hardworking individuals who painstakingly dedicate and commit their services to the organization.

Capping off the night is the awarding of the PESOMAP-10 King and Queen winners.

The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) is a non-fee-charging multiemployment service facility or entity established or accredited pursuant to Republic Act No. 8759, otherwise known as the PESO Act of 1999.

It ensures prompt, timely, and efficient delivery of employment services and the provision of information about DOLE programs.

(DOLE-10 | PIA-10)

DTI-MisOr to hold 20th free enhanced biz learning session

MISAMIS ORIENTAL – In line with its thrust to capacitate business owners to become globally competitive, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Misamis Oriental invites existing local micro-enterprises and newly opened businesses in Cagayan de Oro City to join

the free Enhanced Business Learning Session (EBLS) Batch 20.

The EBLS is a threemonth short business course designed to refine and hone entrepreneurial skills among its enrollees with one-onone coaching in marketing, production, operations,

organization/human resources, and financial management.

The EBLS module replicates DTI’s Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) program. It is a provincial initiative and one of the office’s strategies to enable businesses in Cagayan de Oro.

Entrepreneurs who can join EBLS must be registered as existing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) or start-up MSMEs. They must also have attended the Entrepreneurial Development Seminar of DTI-Misamis Oriental and be willing and committed to attending the three-month program.

The EBLS Batch 20 will start on March 9, 2023. Interested MSMEs can register online at https://tinyurl. com/EBLS20 or visit the official Facebook page of DTIMisamis Oriental for more information. (DTI-MisOr | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

on the Execution of Personnel Services Fund, which were meant to promote, adopt, and put into practice the smart and efficient use of government resources for real regional development.

It also wants to help the Bangsamoro become economically self-sufficient by giving the participants technical knowledge about

the rules and procedures for the Personnel Services Itemization and Plantilla of Personnel (PSIPOP) as well as the guidelines and general instructions for the release of personnel services funds.

Lawyer Rahma Sanglitan, MFBM Bangsamoro Budget office director, emphasized how important it

is to talk about and clarify issues related to the administration of the Bangsamoro Government's compensation and position classification policies so that workers don't get paid late and funds aren't mishandled.

“As champions of moral governance and transparency, it is among our top priorities to ensure the sound

and efficient utilization of government resources,” she said.

This, she said, entails great responsibility and accountability, especially with the growing Bangsamoro Government manpower as they envision a fully operational bureaucracy.

Resource speakers from various government agencies

and institutions, including the Civil Service Commission, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Government Service Insurance System, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan: Ikaw, Bangko, Industriya, at Gobyerno (Pag-IBIG) Fund, also joined the orientation. (BIO | PIA10 | Lanao del Sur)

DOLE-10 Regional Director Albert E. Gutib delivers his inspirational message to the participants of the 2022 Regional DOLE-10 and PESO/ JPO Year-End Performance Assessment (YEPA), Planning and Target Setting and Learning Sessions, and Recognition Night, January 25–26, 2023, at Chali Beach Resort, Cagayan de Oro City. (DOLE-10)

PAF legend Yanti Barsales an inspiration to young players

By Jack Biantan

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– Philippine Air Force booter

Yanti Barsales has shrugged off a traumatic experience during a national championship to become a legend.

The 50-year-old former Philippine Air Force striker was in Cagayan de Oro City to lead the PAF Legends team to the 40-above title in the 2nd 4ID Diamond Cup Football Festival at the Camp Evangelista.

He was among the more than 30 footballers and officials of the Philippine Air Force Football Club who showed up for the festival upon the invitation of the 4ID Diamond officials

In 1989 at a very young age of 15, Yanti was accused of cheating his age in the National Championship of

the Coke Go-For-Goal in Bacolod City.

I was a fan of Yanti when he was leading the PAF football team during the ‘90s when the Philippine Azkals were not yet on the thoughts of local football fans.

I was starstruck when I met the soft spoken Ilonggo at Camp Evangelista last Sunday (Feb. 12) after 34 years since that highly controversial week at the Paglaum stadium in Bacolod City.

He was the star striker of the highly favored Barotac Nuevo team of Iloilo during the national finals of the Coke Go-For-Goal.

I was only young coach leading a very young Salazar Institute of Technology/ Don Bosco Boys Home-Cebu team.

No ordinary boy

Yanti was only 15 in that

national competition for boys born 1973 and above. But Yanti then was not an ordinary boy. He was all muscled, highly skillful and

fully fit.

He came from a poor family and he was used to hard work when he was a kid growing up in Magpet, Catabato, 38 minutes away from Kidapawan City, Cotabato.

He discovered football rather late when his family moved to Iloilo. He was already in high school while studying at the Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCF) in Tiwi, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo when he started playing the beautiful game.

It was also during those first two years while studying at the ISCF when he added more muscles working in the fishponds while studying.

Those muscles and his ability to strike the football like an adult, shocked the players and the coaches in Bacolod.

Then, I would not believe that this boy could run that fast and kick so hard was only 15.

The Barotac team bulldozed my team Salazar Institute of Technology/Don Bosco Boys Home Cebu in the elimination.

We shocked them in the first 10 minutes when our

star striker Victor Pacquit scored a go-ahead goal from the halfway line.

Pacquit found the goalkeeper outside the penalty box as the Barotac boys were charging full blast for an opening goal.

Unfortunately for them Pacquit saw the bored goalkeeper and once he got the ball he struck it above his head and into the back of the net.

It was a short minute of glorious joy for us as the

goal woke up the Barotac boys and then unleashed the 15-year-old monster from Magpet.

Yanti then led the charge scoring a hattrick and leaving us helpless as if we were run over by a 120 km per hour charging Ceres bus.

The game finished with us trying to hide our heads in our boots as Barotac smashed in three more goals for a 1-6 final score.

Yanti Barsales (right) in action for the PAF Legends during the 4ID Diamond Cup here at Camp Evangelista against Monte Carlo FC of Cagayan de Oro. (Jack Biantan | MT)

Yanti Barsales (second from right) display his 40-Above championship medal with his Philippine Air Force Legends team during the awarding ceremony of the 4ID Diamond Cup at Camp Evangelista Patag, Cagayan de Oro City. (Photo supplied)

MINDANAO TODAY

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) — Money that has come your way unexpectedly might have you thinking in terms of expanding your personal interests and holdings, Aries. You might consider trying some new investments, particularly property. There's no need to rush to make a decision, however. You have all the time in the world to consider different options - and have some fun while you do it.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20) — Money that has come your way unexpectedly might have you thinking in terms of expanding your personal interests and holdings, Aries. You might consider trying some new investments, particularly property. There's no need to rush to make a decision, however. You have all the time in the world to consider different options - and have some fun while you do it.

GEMINI (May 21 -June 20) — Recent successes haven't made you feel you can rest on your laurels, Gemini. Rather, you're more likely to work harder. Today you might spend a lot of time considering different options for improving your socioeconomic status. Among them might be enterprises connected with the planet. Business and romantic partners could inspire you.

CANCER (June 21 -July 22) — This is likely a day when you want to reflect on your successes. As your professional success continues to skyrocket, your sense of self-confidence follows suit. So do your relationships with family, friends, children, and romantic partners. Your mind is especially sharp, Cancer, and your personal innovations should continue to progress. Life is good and likely to stay that way for a while.

LEO (July 23 -Aug. 22) — Surprising developments in your life might bring a lot of visitors and much happiness to your home. You could host a party or other sort of gathering. This is likely to keep you very busy throughout the day, Leo, but you will have fun all the same. Don't let shop talk interfere with times like this. This is the time to relax and enjoy your good fortune. Use it to your advantage.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - S ep. 22) — Some wonderful new developments could take place in your community, Virgo. You might meet some new people who move in nearby. New businesses could also arrive and give a whole new look to the area. You could spend a lot of time visiting others to learn about what's happening. You might also consider fixing up your home, as recent success has made that possible. You will be busy all day.

LIBRA (Sep. 23 -Oct. 22) — A high level of self-confidence and optimism should stay with you throughout the day, Libra. Your energy is good, as is your enthusiasm. The success and good fortune that have been coming your way are likely to stay with you. You may have just been blessed with more money and happiness. Of course, this feeling is also likely to attract more friends. Make the most of it!

SCORPIO (Oct. 3 -Nov. 21) — Happiness is the mood of the day, Scorpio, as you enjoy the fruits of all your hard work over the past few years. You're able to pursue a few things that you've never been able to before. You're likely surrounded by old and new friends, and romance is blossoming. You probably also look especially attractive now. If all this sounds too good to be true, wake up! It's happening!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 -Dec. 21) — Happiness is the mood of the day, Scorpio, as you enjoy the fruits of all your hard work over the past few years. You're able to pursue a few things that you've never been able to before. You're likely surrounded by old and new friends, and romance is blossoming. You probably also look especially attractive now. If all this sounds too good to be true, wake up! It's happening!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) — The company of good friends, perhaps at a group activity or festival of some kind, contributes to a powerful feeling of good health, good fortune, and happiness, Capricorn. You will probably want to spend a lot of time outdoors today. Sports might appeal to you. There will be a few minor accidents - dropping things, spilling drinks - but in all, this should be a satisfying day.

AQUARIUS (J an. 20 - Feb. 18) —

Continued success and good fortune regarding finances could have you flying high right now, Aquarius. You're probably glowing with self-confidence and may well be surrounded by good friends. There might even be some public acclaim. A few minor mishaps might occur today, but they certainly won't put a damper on the mood. Expect to have a wonderful day!

PISCES (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) — Now that you've earned your place in the world after all your hard work, Pisces, you might take some time to pursue your own interests. This could involve writing or publishing, going back to school to get an advanced degree, or taking a trip around the world. You have the time and energy to think about all your different options, so don't feel you have to rush.

RIDO | from p1

founding anniversary of the said town, Adiong said.

Police authorities identified the fatalities as Staff Sergeant Mohamad Juraij Adiong, Corporal Johaine Sumander, Patrolman Jalil Cosain, and the driver also known as "Kobi".

The killed policemen were assigned from the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office.

Rep. Adiong confirmed in a Facebook post that Governor

PSA | from p1 followed by housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels with 5.3 percent; and personal care and miscellaneous goods and services with 5.6 percent.

“If the prices continue to increase especially in food and non-alcoholic beverages which have the biggest weight, definitely our inflation rate will also increase,” Aves said in mixed English and vernacular during the press conference on Friday. Food inflation accelerated to 12.6 percent in January this year from 11.4 percent in the previous month. In January 2022, food inflation was lower at 5.2 percent.

Aves said the major contributors of food inflation were vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas and pulses with 40.9 percent; followed by fish and other seafood with

NGO | from p1

The project is in partnership with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund and the United States Agency for International Development.

On Friday, February 17, Relief International visited the office of City Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy to present its project, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Technical Support to last mile

BARSALES | from p6 Barotac boys

The Barotac boys then whipped Davao 3-0 with Yanti scoring one goal. They then had to face Silliman University to battle for which team would top the group.

Silliman then was led by the bull strong, fantastic and good looking Yoldie brothers. They were a force on the pitch.

Against us they scored only two goals one of which was an own goal by defender Rodney Raynon.

Silliman was strong and well coached by Dumaguete’s legendary coach Noel Arevalo. Against Barotac, it was a seesaw battle that ended in a nilnil draw.

The Barotac boys scored six goals against us, putting them up front in our group and would face the second placer of the other group De La Salle Zobel of NCR in the semis.

Silliman would face West Negros College of host Bacolod City in the other semis match.

We had an early vacation and we enjoyed a trip to Don Bosco Victorias where we were welcomed by the Salesians.

Controversy

But controversy brewed the night before the semis as one of the coaches from the remaining three teams wrote a letter of protest alleging that Yanti was over age.

The letter was signed by all the other coaches including

Adiong has undergone minor surgery on the lower abdomen at the right side to remove a bullet that hit him and he is now recuperating.

During the press conference, when asked if the said governor received threats particularly from the Dawlah-Islamiyah, Rep. Adiong did not directly answer but he pointed out that the said organization doesn’t pinpoint a specific individual.

“They are after changing the system. And so anybody who is

30.8 percent; and meat and other parts of slaughtered land animals with 13.9 percent.

The PSA-10 data showed that the province of Lanao del Norte (including Iligan City) posted the biggest increase in inflation with 2.4 percentage points – from 6.0 percent in December 2022 to 8.4 percent in January this year.

On the other hand, the province of Camiguin posted the biggest decrease in inflation with 0.6 percentage point – from 9.5 percent inflation rate in December 2022 to 8.9 percent in January this year.

Meanwhile, the province of Bukidnon posted an 8.3 percent inflation rate; Misamis Occidental with 8.3 percent and Misamis Oriental (including Cagayan de Oro City) with 8.9 percent.

Out of the five provinces and two highly urbanized cities in the region, Cagayan de

Covid-19 Vaccination and Routine Immunization.

The cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan were identified intervention areas in Northern Mindanao.

According to Jose EG Michael Lacre, the communication for the development specialist of Relief International, they will be providing technical support in terms of capacity building, social mobilization, updating the demand generation plans of the CHO,

me. I was thinking that since we were already out it does not matter.

Without any proof, the protest was entertained by the organizers. The protest broke the hearts of the Barotac boys specially Yanti. Their morale fell from 100 to zero.

Yanti was called by the organizers to face an “inquiry.” Imagine a 15-year-old facing an inquisition like investigation.

He was alone in front of those old men, questioning his eligibility and integrity.

Yanti was strong, with a hard body developed by working hard in the fishponds of Barotac Nuevo.

In face of the inquiry, he was only a 15-year-old boy. They did not find any evidence that he was overaged.

“I was completely shocked. I was young and in face of those people I was devastated,” Yanti revealed in an interview right after a match during the Diamond Cup Football Festival.

The next day, against De La Salle Zobel, the Barotac boys were a different team. They played with their morale left inside their dressing room.

De La Salle Zobel

De La Salle Zobel of coach Hans Smit were full of energy. They could do no wrong and in the end advanced to the final with a 2-0 victory.

The Barotac boys marched out of the pitch with bowed heads and still thinking what

connected in the government is their enemy,” Rep. Adiong said.

The Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region has already created a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) with Colonel Robert Daculan, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office director, as task force commander to conduct an in-depth investigation for speedy identification and arrest of the suspects.

Vice President Sara Duterte strongly condemned the am-

Oro has the lowest inflation rate with 8.0 percent. This is 0.2 percent lower compared in December 2022 data.

Aves said the Northern Mindanao region ranks seventh in the highest inflation rates among the 17 regions in the country. This went up as the region ranked fourth in the lowest inflation rate in December 2022.

‘Price monitoring’

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) region 10, in the same press conference, assured the intensive price monitoring following the continuous increase in the inflation rate.

Julie Nieva, DTI-10 information officer, said all local price coordinating councils in different cities and municipalities in the region are tasked to monitor the prices of goods to ensure that all major establishments are following the sug-

and providing communication materials and public awareness raising for Covid-19 vaccination and routine immunization.

“Generally, more on the demand and evidence generation ang among ginabuhat. We go to the communities in partnership with CHO para ma-capture ang mga insights and feedback from the communities and also encourage them to get vaccinated and to follow the protocols nga ginahatag sa DOH and CHO,” Lacre said.

hit them.

Silliman beat West Negros College 1-0 in the other semis clash to advance to the championship against Hans Smit team.

The Dumaguete boys then went on to win the 1989 National Coke Go-For-Goal title after beating De La Salle 3-0.

The Barotac boys were supposed to win the title but someone conspired to accuse Yanti of cheating.

I was one of those who signed the letter of protest. I now apologize to Yanti and to the Barotac team.

After that tournament Yanti did not get discouraged and resumed his football career. He vindicated himself few years later when he led Iloilo to the U19 Adidas Cup title and then winning the Most Valuable Player award.

Yanti then became a member of the Philippine National Football team in 1992 until 2001. He enlisted with the Philippine Air Force and played for them for 28 years until his retirement in 2022.

Yanti had a colorful career with PAF. However, he could not forget his best game with the club in the United Football League against Kaya FC then manned by the Younghusband brothers Phil and James.

He scored the second goal to cement their title and was awarded the Golden Ball Award and the Agility Award.

Yanti’s most memorable stint with the National team

bush and sent her condolences to the bereaved families of the security escorts who died in the incident.

“As a nation, we should collectively reject this cowardly act of violence and demand that the perpetrators are immediately brought to justice,” the statement said.

As of this writing, the investigation is still ongoing and the families and relatives of the governor are still waiting for the result from the authorities. (MT)

gested retail prices (SRP).

Apart from the local price coordinating council, the DTI also has its own price and supply monitoring team to monitor the major establishments every day.

“Mag submit sad ta og presyo ana para masigurado usab nato nga naa silay enough nga supply (We also submit [the list of] prices to ensure that they also have enough supply),” Nieva said.

The DTI-10 information officer also explained that prices of goods in ‘Sari-Sari stores’ in the barangays are a little bit higher compared to the prices in grocery stores and supermarkets because of ‘convenience fee’.

DTI is recommending the consumers to buy their basic needs to the nearest grocery stores and supermarkets as all of the prices have SRP. (Franck Dick Rosete | MT)

From February to June of this year, Relief International will be visiting the barangays in Cagayan de Oro and meeting with their barangay chairs, barangay councilors for health, and barangay health workers. The Relief International, Lacre said, will generate the data to be presented to the CHO to determine the cause of the low Covid-19 vaccination and routine immunization rate in the city. (JAS | CIO)

was in 2001 against Syria where he scored their lone goal in the 1-7 loss.

The men’s national team were not known as the Alkalis yet during that time. Support for them were limited and the tournaments they participated in were a few.

Presently

Presently, Yanti lives with his wife Gemma Araneta Barsales and his children Mariel, Marvin, Marvic and Marian at the DECA Homes in Clark, Angeles City, Pampanga.

Mariel is also with the PAF, while Marvin is applying also to be with the PAF. His other two children are still in school.

Yanti at age 50, has availed with the optional retirement program of the PAF having been in service for 28 years.

He has retired as a serviceman but he continues to help with the PAF football program in Clark.

He is not only a role model to the young Airmen who have just enlisted to play for PAF football team but also to the young boys and girls who are just starting to play the sport. Yanti, despite of some failures in the past has not stopped playing the beautiful game. At age 50 he is still reliable in front of the goal.

He just proved it by leading the PAF to the title in the 40-Above category of the Diamond Cup. (jackbiantan@ yahoo.com) (MT)

Liceo U’s La Castilla Museum opens photo exhibit at Centrio

IN celebration of the National Arts Month and to mark the 68th Founding Anniversary of Liceo de Cagayan University, The La Castilla Blue and White Ware: A Photography Exhibition, which is part of the 18th Cultural Season of Liceo U, formally opened on February 13, 2023, at Ayala Centrio (3rd Floor Foyer) in Vicente Roa Street, Cagayan de Oro City.

The exhibition, which runs until February 28, features photos of select artifacts from the La Castilla Museum of Philippine Household Heirlooms collection and Antiques Repository of the Rodolfo and Elsa Pelaez Family Memorabilia.

The opening ceremony had as guest speaker Dr. Chona Echavez, president of the Research Institute of Mindanao Culture (RIMCU).

Dr. Echavez talked about the history of pottery, shared her experiences

with museum collections, and urged people to visit La Castilla. La Castilla curator Kelly Ramos-Palaganas gave an overview of the exhibition in her welcome address.

Young instrumentalists (violin, viola, and cello) of the Liceo Conservatory of Music, Theater, and Dance delivered a musical performance.

Gracing the opening ceremony were government figures – City Councilor Suzette Magtajas Daba, chairperson of the City’s Committee on Education; Mr. Decius Esmedalla, Supervising Tourism Operations Officer of Region 10; Mr. Nicolas Aca, Chairperson of the Cagayan de Oro Historical and Cultural Commission; and Mr. JC Salon, OIC of the Cagayan de Oro Museum and Heritage Studies Center.

Also present to witness the event were local journalists, University officials and

faculty, ZEALEP officials, Arts Appreciation students, and Liceo U’s student ambassadors.

The two-week exhibit also features the La Castilla Lecture Series with experts in the Arts and Culture.

The talks range in scope from the academic to the economics and artistry of the collection on display.

The photo exhibit team is composed of Jeikko Gomez (photographer), Kelly Ramos-Palaganas (curator), Reynan Lacaba (graphic artist), Dr. Salvador dela Pena III (editor), and Roger Odron (project director).

The holding of the event is in partnership with Cagayan de Oro City Tourism Office, Cagayan Historical and Cultural Commission, Ayala Malls – Ayala Centrio, Liceo Office of Cultural Affairs (LOCA), Liceo Press, and Liceo Office of Promotions and Communications. (Kelly Ramos-Palaganas)

Asenso Global Gardens in Tangub opens for tourists

By Shaine Mae Nagtalon

TANGUB CITY – Misa -

mis Occidental Gov. Henry

Oaminal led the soft opening of Asenso Global Gardens, a 191-hectare tourist facility situated in Barangay Hoyohoy, Tangub City,

within Mount Malindang Range, an ASEAN Heritage Park almost 1000 feet above sea level, February 14.

Overlooking a scenic

view of the majestic Panguil Bay and the Panguil Bay Bridge, the longest bridge in the Philippines, the area will include a global garden, global cafe, and amphitheater.

Oaminal wanted Misamis Occidental to be a center for tourism and business in Mindanao.

The governor thought this would bring in more tourists, bring in more investors, create jobs, and bring in money.

“We will make the second district of Misamis Occidental and the province of Misamis Occidental be on the tourism map of the country and make them the top five tourist destinations here in Mindanao,” he said.

The building will have

falling water, wellness facilities, a reflection pool, and gardens with French, Korean, and Japanese designs, among others.

Meanwhile, Tangub Mayor Sabiniano Canama is very happy and grateful for the partnership of the province, including its three cities and 14 municipalities, with the two representatives in Congress.

“Kini nga lugar usa man ka gasa sa Ginoo dili kaya kung ang dakbayan sa Tangub lamang ang mag-develop, magpasiugda ug mupalambo niini. Gikahinanglan namo ug gikahinanglan nato tanan ang partnership sa tibuok probinsya,” he said.

(This place is a gift from God; it cannot be developed

or improved by the city of Tangub alone. We need the partnership of the city and the entire province)

Asenso Global Gardens is a multi-million project managed by the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental through its Provincial Economic Enterprise Office (PEEO) and Office of the Provincial Tourism, Arts and Cultural Affairs (OPTACA).

The captivating and majestic location gives tourists access to the scenic view of the entire Panguil Bay.

Among the major facilities of this project are a coffee shop, a food court, a global cafe, and the Mt. Malindang Amphitheatre, among others. (SMRN | PIA10 | Misamis Occidental)

Various products made by Oro Handmade Innovations, Inc. are being displayed in the Philippine Pavilion at Ambiente 2023 in Frankfurt, Germany, February 3-7, 2023. Oro Handmade is based in Barra, Opol, Misamis Oriental, is known for creating sustainable products using abaca fiber, pineapple leaves, bamboo, and rattan. (Photo courtesy of the Nicole Cabanlet Designs FB page)

Young instrumentalists (violin, viola, and cello) of the Liceo Conservatory of Music, Theater, and Dance deliver a musical performance. (Photo courtesy of Jeikko Gomez)

Local personalities are in attendance during the opening of the Liceo de Cagayan University-organized

The La Castilla Blue and White Ware: A Photography Exhibition. (Photo courtesy of Jeikko Gomez)

The Province of Misamis Occidental, under the leadership of Gov. Henry S. Oaminal opens the Asenso Global Gardens in Tangub City