THE MINDANAO TODAY FEBRUARY 22-23, 2023

Med facilities raise alarm on waste disposal

VARIOUS medical establishments in the city, including the Philippine Dental Association have expressed their concerns over difficulties in

disposing their hazardous waste, said Councilor Roger Abaday, in his special report during the regular session of the city council here on

Monday, Feb. 20.

“Galisod sila og labay sa ilang mga waste nila. Dili lang dental, kun dili hasta ang mga (They’re having a

hard time disposing of their waste. Not just dental [clinics] but including) hospital; government and private hospitals,” said Abaday, the

DISCREPANCY IN RECIPIENTS’ LIST NOTED

3 Oro execs may face charges over ‘ayuda’

By Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

AFTER almost six months of investigation, the ad hoc committee of the 20th city council here, chaired by lawyer

James Judith II, has finished the committee report pertaining to the reinvestigation of the special enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) “ayuda” (assistance) in this city.

Judith did not disclose the

entire findings in the committee report but he said there were three officials who may face charges, if the public would want to, due to the alleged discrepancies in the said cash assistance program.

The names were also not

disclosed as well as they are either current or former city officials as Judith still needs to wait for a go signal after submitting the said report to Mayor Rolando Uy and Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez on Thursday, Feb. 16.

Gov’t begins probe versus perps

By Claire Gigje

Troops from the Army’s 3rd Special Forces Battalion conduct search, rescue and retrieval operations to the families of the villages of Payasan and Ban-as in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur affected by the flooding on Feb. 18. (Photo courtesy of the 4th Infantry Division)

Troops of the Army’s 65th Infantry Battalion conduct road clearing operation along Sibagat Highway due to a minor landslide caused by heavy rains on Feb. 18. (Photo courtesy of the 4th Infantry Division)

MARAWI CITY – An investigation is now underway to identify the root cause and the identities of the perpetrators behind the violent

Wed-thu, February 22-23, 2023

Thousands flee homes as LPA hits Butuan, Caraga provinces

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Thousands of residents in Butuan City as well as in the neighboring provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur fled their homes as the trough of the low-pressure area (LPA) brought heavy rains that caused flooding and landslides Saturday.

As of the 10 a.m. weather bulletin, the LPA was al -

ready in the vicinity of San Vicente, Northern Samar or 40 kilometers east of Masbate City, Masbate.

The probability of a tropical depression within 24 hours is less likely, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

The LPA will bring moderate to heavy with at times intense rains over Cagayan,

N. Cotabato town offers P400K bounty over reports of killings

By Edwin Fernandez

PIKIT, North Cotabato

– The local government has offered a P400,000 reward money for anyone who can provide information that would lead to the identification and arrest of the perpetrators behind the recent killing of a 13-year-old student and tricycle driver here.

Mayor Sumulong Sultan said Monday the amount will hopefully help fast-track

the arrest of the suspects behind the series of killings in the town.

“We need your help, we need everybody’s help to stop all these killings,” Sultan told members of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) and town residents in a statement.

Sultan said the MPOC approved the use of PHP400,000 worth of bounty wherein PHP200,000 will go to anyone who can help identify the killers of

a 13-year-old student here on Feb. 14 and another PHP200,000 to help solve the killing of tricycle driver Jose Neri Gonzales a day earlier.

He urged those with information to come forward and provide evidence to police authorities to help solve the cases.

In addition, the mayor said the town council passed a resolution banning motorcycle back riders. (PNA)

P3M worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in Davao

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY – Authorities seized more than PHP2.9 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at the Sirawan border control checkpoint here, an official reported Wednesday.

Col. Darren Comia, the Army-led Task Force Davao (TFD) commander, said Tuesday's apprehension, in coordination with the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Davao, was the biggest so far this year.

“We will be vigilant to filter smuggled and illegal contraband considered very dangerous and harmful to the Dabawenyos and the city's economy,” he said.

At least 5,142 reams of smug-

gled cigarettes with an estimated street value of PHP2,982,360 was seized from a 10-wheeler wing van truck passing through the Sirawan checkpoint.

Arrested was the truck’s driver, identified as Webster Niebre, 28, of Midsayap, North Cotabato. Niebre is facing charges in violation of Republic Act 4712 or An Act Amending Certain Sections of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines.

Authorities account for the estimated PHP2.9 million cigarette contraband apprehended at the Sirawan border checkpoint in Davao City Tuesday (Feb. 14, 2023). (PNA)

Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, the Bicol Region, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar and Samar.

In Butuan City, 5,026 families from 38 villages moved to evacuation centers for safety.

Heavy rains started to lash Butuan City in the early morning of Saturday, flooding most streets, subdivisions and villages.

A landslide was also reported in Barangay De Oro on Saturday morning but was immediately cleared out in the afternoon. (PNA)

BIFFs yield, pledge loyalty to govt

By Edwin Fernandez

ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat – Five members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have surrendered over the weekend and pledged allegiance to the government, police said Monday.

Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, director of the Police Regional Office for the Soccsksargen Region (PRO-12), said the surrender of the BIFF batch on Sunday came after weeks of backdoor negotiations with the Sultan Kudarat police, the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, and intelligence units.

“They turned in their firearms and explosives,” Macaraeg said.

He identified the surrenderers as Montasir Bamigan, 23; Alimuden Ali, 51; Jerry Kamid, 25; Bimbo Utto, 22; Benladin Balayman, 22. All are members of the BIFF Kagui Karialan faction in Maguindanao. (PNA)

Alleged arsonist dies in fire that razed 260 houses in Zambo City

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A suspected arsonist died in a two-hour fire that razed 260 houses mostly made of light materials in a cramped residential area in this city, officials said Monday. Supt. Cristopher Morales, Zamboanga City Fire District marshal, said the

fire broke out at the house of a certain “Palos” around 4:25 a.m. Monday in Sitio Asinan, Barangay Kasanyangan.

Before the incident, Morales said Palos had a quarrel with his wife who fled from their house out of fear.

Nasser Jimlani, a member of Lupon (Barangay Court), said Palos threat -

ened to burn their house if his wife did not return home.

Jimlani added that Palos locked the door of his house and set it ablaze, prompting the neighbors to come to his rescue.

However, Jimlani said Palos was armed with a bolo and threatened to attack them.

Palos was trapped and burned to death as the fire engulfed his house and rapidly spread to nearby dwellings.

Morales said the conflagration was only put out at around 6:33 a.m.

Initial damage to properties was pegged at PHP1.7 million. (PNA)

Pikit, North Cotabato Mayor Sumulong Sultan (with microphone) presides over the emergency meeting. (Photo courtesy of Pikit LGU)

The PCG-Northeastern Mindanao activates its Deployable Response Group. (Courtesy of PCG-Northeastern Mindanao Facebook)

An alleged arsonist died in a two-hour fire that razed 260 houses mostly made of light materials. (Photo courtesy of Zamboanga CIO)

At least 5,142 reams of smuggled cigarettes were seized inside a 10-wheeler wing van truck passing through the checkpoint. (Photo courtesy of TFD)

1st joint PCG-PCGA bay watch patrol team launched in MisOr

OPOL, Misamis Oriental – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District Northern Mindanao together with the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) 1001st Squadron successfully launched the 1st Joint PCG-PCGA Bay Watch Patrol Team in the region at Opol, Misamis Oriental,

February 12.

The PCG and PCGA are working together to start and run the Bay Watch Patrol Team. This is because the PCG has heard that people have drowned or were close to drowning in these areas.

"This project will help the community in terms

of response. The establishment of this Baywatch team will eventually prevent the incident of drowning," CG Commander (CDR) Patrick John Cabasag said.

Aside from keeping the public safe, the project also aims to further educate the public, especially beachgoers, on water safety and the

beach owner’s responsibilities when it comes to water safety.

Informational leaflets that contain safety precaution instructions will also be handed down by the team to individuals to help enhance their knowledge of water safety.

Meanwhile, the PCGA

1001st Squadron, as a partner of the PCG in the implementation of environmental preservation and maritime safety and rescue, pledges its full support and commitment to the endeavors and mandates of the PCG.

Both PCG and PCGA urge the public to be aware of the safety procedures to

avoid drowning or neardrowning incidents. They also encourage the beach owners to strictly follow the coast guard's rules and regulations and always place an on-duty lifeguard in their respective watch towers to keep their customers safe.

(Jan Albert Araña | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

Oro boosts services for women, children's protection

By Irene Joy Dayo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Oro Youth Development Office (OYDO) in this city recently completed its search for the Seal of the Most Child-Friendly Police Station with an awarding ceremony dubbed Pasundayag 2023, which highlighted the progress for services on women and child protection.

Co-chair of the Committee on Social Protection of the City Government, Councilor Joyleen Mercedes Balaba, delivered a report on behalf of City Mayor Rolando A. Uy.

"On protection rights, the Regional Juvenile Justice Welfare Committee awarded the City for its documentation as the best practices in the implementation of RA 9344, otherwise known as the Juvenile Justice Welfare

Act of 2006, with the BCPC in place at the barangay level. Protection for children at risk (PCR) and children in conflict with the law (CICL) is ensured," she said.

She also said that members of the BCPC, or Barangay Council for the Protection of Children, are always given training on how to deal with different cases of child abuse.

Balaba said that one thing the City Social Welfare Development Office and the Women and Children Protection Desks of the Philippine National Police have done so far is help children who need special protection, children who are at risk, and children who are involved in a conflict.

City Administrator Lawyer Roy Hilario Raagas said not only the awardees present but their respective communities and constituents

were the true inspiration for the organized recognition night.

Noting the report of Balaba, he said, "That is a sign of the great inspiration of Mayor Klarex that from the past administration until now, the city government sees to it that the city's ego, not only a responsibility, but including the vision of the well-being of children that can be directed to adolescents and youth and future leaders of our community, will be treated with sufficient attention.

He also reiterated Mayor Rolando Uy’s report about the budget spent for social services, which is nearing P1 billion or P800 million plus, and added that when he had the privilege to serve the City Government in 1993, there were only a few child development centers, which is about more than 50 cen-

ters, and at that time, the establishment of women’s desks was still starting.

"The government long ago did not yet prioritize women's, youth's, and children’s concerns. The LGU comes to see the protection of children twenty-five years later. Even at the barangay level, there is already a BCPC. Because the government, from the national level to the barangay level, saw that there was a need to devote more resources for our children," he said.

Furthermore, Raagas stated that police stations have multiple roles to play in the community. As a result, it is not only the WCPD's responsibility to protect children, their mothers, and women who are in conflict with the law or face violations of women's rights, but it is also everyone's concern.

Lawyer Roy Hilario Raagas, Cagayan de Oro city administrator, says he has seen improvements in government services relating to the protection of women and children in the city over the years. (Kim D. Zaldivar)

Anti-terrorism council carries on move vs violent extremism

By Claire Gigje

MARAWI CITY – The AntiTerrorism Council (ATC) in the country never ceases to make sure that violent extremism has no room in this nation.

As part of this effort, the ATC ensured to meet with its members for an information briefing that tackled the normalization mechanism of the Bangsamoro peace process and the Task Force Bangon Marawi’s (TFBM’s) programs, accomplishments, and updates on the reintegration and rehabilita-

tion of the city here and the affected families.

ATC-Program Management Center (PMC) Officerin-Charge Lawyer Florentino Manalastas Jr. underlined that the essence of the information briefing is to apprise the concerned government agencies of the normalization status of the Bangsamoro region after 26 long years of insurgency by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which led to peace negotiations with the Philippine government and the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous

Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

He added that this activity was also intended to explore the rehabilitation and reintegration mechanisms undertaken by the TFBM.

Manalastas further stated that the council is moving to discuss measures to counter extremism in the country.

He underscored that the 2017 siege in this city is one of the most unforgettable scars in the nation's history.

As such, Manalastas stressed that everyone should reflect on the les -

sons learned from this dark chapter to prevent a similar incident from happening again in any part of the country.

He stated that the issue of violence cannot be resolved with the existence of the military alone, as there must be a proper intervention that reaches the most secluded parts of the communities.

"We should keep in mind that military responses do not resolve the underlying issues that allowed for the recruitment of violent

The PCG District Northern Mindanao together with the PCGA 1001st Squadron launches the 1st Joint PCG-PCGA Bay Watch Patrol Team. (DCC | PIA-10)

Lawyer Florentino Manalastas Jr., Anti-Terrorism Council-Program Management Center (ATC-PMC) officer-in-charge. (PIA-10)

Wed-thu, February 22-23, 2023

OROMIND PUBLISHING INC. Publisher

GERRY J. CAÑO, PHD President

MARJUNE MILLIONES VP for Administration

JOHN M. DEL BANDO VP for Operations

LANI M. VALLIDO VP for Sales and Marketing

JOHN M. DEL BANDO Editor-in-Chief

JIGGER JERUSALEM Associate Editor

Jack Biantan sports editor

Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

URIEL QUILINGUING Editorial Consultant

Domingo J. Marron Jr. Social Media

Jack Biantan Marketing Manager for mindanao

Sugar maandig MITZILIE P. ANGA Account Executives for mindanao

MAHVIC C. NATIVIDAD RUBY M. AGUSTIN Account Executives

johnny talipan lumod Lay-out Artist

Noel Armodia Production Head

ATTY. RAMIL G. GABAO

ATTY. EDDIE C. CUARESMA

ATTY. MARINEL JUNE S. PALER Legal

UNIT 818, CITYLAND HERRERA

TOWER, VA RUFINO COR

VALERO ST. SALCEDO VILLAGE MAKATI CITY 1227

Manila Office

2F CONSORTIUM BLDG.

CORRALES EXT. CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY 9000

Mobile #: 0905 088 4778

0961 688 4888

Head Office

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

The ‘spy balloon’ saga bursts

THE NPR (National Public Radio) is a quasi-autonomous, governmentfunded nonprofit media outlet created by the US federal government.

On its Feb. 16 headline blared ‘Biden says the 3 aerial objects shot down were not Chinese spy balloons’... President Joe Biden will soon speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the surveillance balloon the US military shot down early this month.”

On the Feb. 18 edition of NPR, one major headline was ‘Blinken meets with China’s top diplomatic in first meeting since the balloon controversy’... US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, on Saturday. It is the highest level of contact between the two countries since the “discovery” of a Chinese surveillance balloon over US airspace earlier this month.”

We will recall how the “spy balloon” saga started Feb. 4 when the first balloon was spotted flying towards Alaska from the Bering Sea, meandering to Canada and back into the US and out the coast of South Carolina where it was shot down.

China insisted it was just a wayward meteorological balloon while another report said the first balloon was not even Chinese but from an American company.

I remember writing about that confusion of the first balloon which Reuters has insisted in its report was an American balloon, but the confusion got even more confused as other balloons popped in the continuing

The wisdom of Divine Love

(2nd of 2 parts)

reports and balloons traversing South America and other parts of the world became part of the global hyperventilation of the “balloon mania” – only now in the middle of February all to be shot down by the White House itself.

After deflating the spy balloon mania and the cancelled visit of US Secretary Blinken to China, Blinken finally meets China’s top diplomat Wang Yi in Munich, Germany.

The Munich Security Conference is held annually to assess the state of the EU and its trans-Atlantic relations with the US.

I remember my last articles on Munich Security Conference sometime 2020 when its theme was “Westlessness” – the sense of drift and abandonment of Europe. Europe is even more lost today.

There are lessons to be learned from the “spy balloon” saga, the first being to be very careful about US information war operations which the spy balloon tall tale was.

Thinking people were alert immediately to the flaws of the story, asking questions such as why would any party, most of all China which has 300 Baidou satellite a third of those being with military applications, need to use an unsteerable balloon for intel operations?

To keen observers, the diversionary purpose of the spy balloon story is obvious; however, the question that has yet to be answered is –diversion from what?

The first theory is that it was used as an excuse to scuttle the special Blinken

IT is the wisdom of a love aspiring not only to “do good and avoid evil”, but to “do good in the face of evil”; of a love expressed for both friend and foe, ally and stranger, oppressed and oppressor.

It is true though, that we have always been given the choice to obey or disobey at our own risk: “If you wish, you can keep the commandments and it is in your power to remain faithful. He has set fire and water before you; you stretch out your hand to whichever you prefer. Life and death are set before man: which ever a man prefers will be given him.”

But the Spirit “knows all the works of man.”

Choices such as “fire and water” or “life and death,” will always have either favorable or disastrous implications for us all, that “whoever breaks the least important of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be the least in the kingdom of heaven. On the other hand, whoever obeys them, and teaches others to do the same, will be great in the kingdom of heaven.”

So, it is only fitting – if only for the sake of a “life” which lasts forever; if only for the sake of an eternal justice, peace and integrity of creation we can all cherish together – that “he has commanded no one to be godless and has given no one permission to sin.”

Therefore, the wisdom

of his divine love is the only true wisdom we must all consummate together.

May we pray: Father, help me to realize that knowledge belongs to you. Though by your will, you have chosen to share with us what we need to manage our doubts, anxieties and fears against a world we can never fully comprehend or be fully secure for, teach us too to relish in the uncertainties of life, so that we can much more vividly see in our finiteness, your everlasting companionship and providence. Father, truly it is only in my emptiness that I will witness your fullness!

In your hands, knowledge is freely given; in our hands, it is well taken, but rarely shared. We used what we presumed we possess, to abuse whom we presumed are disposed to serve us.

Teach us instead to use what we should understand to be coming from you alone, so that humbled and inferior like everyone else – especially those who remain unloved by society – we are all equally disposed to serve each other. Amen. (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.)

Mindanao State Formation: Nationalist-Colonialism

mation could come through social consciousness on which the awareness of society can be achieved when the people's minds communicate and become one—a single organic whole.

Part 1

than 7,100-plus islands.

The archipelagic nature speaks local political histories. The wondrous archipelagic and geographic realm is a formidable witness of history—an intangible observer and victim.

The central administration in Manila results in inequitable development in the different regions.

HI there!

In Philippine political society in the state context, the kind of politics is not isolated within the periphery of the central state but also to subaltern actors involved in the processes from groups of state institutions.

In this case, state-society communication relies on the root of the commonly understood problems of being a state.

Yet, political institutions wherein the state is a relation of men dominating men, a connection supported by employing legitimate violence.

According to Max Weber, if the condition exists, the dominated must obey the authority claimed by the powers that be—politics strive for 'power for power's sake,' that is, to enjoy the prestige feeling that ability gives.

In democratic countries, state for-

Enlightenment philosophy, one by John Locke, recognizes political power; men must consider the state all men are naturally in and must be equal—no one having more than another without subordination or subjection.

However, this enlightened concept of the state of men is virtually different in defining state formation relating to the realities of the bounds that the state embodies.

Mostly, in local governance, the foundation of government has been adversely maligned when a man succumbs to societal changes when communal history develops into deliberate changes of society to or against localized states.

In understanding Philippine politics, one should consider geography as an integral factor. The Philippines is an archipelagic country with more

The amorous façade of the islands has a highly centralized government that is ineffective in dealing with the contingencies in far-flung parts of the country.

Assumingly, the unitary and centralized Philippine government summarizes post-colonial construction fostering “nationalist-colonialism.”

As Patricio Abinales theorized, "the beginning of the integral change molded the argument of 'strong society and weak state' or 'state-society relations' deduces a historical setback.

The changing aspects of "statesociety relations" are evident within an unstable settlement zone, types of political and social relations established through time by communities, groups, political clans, and individuals in the provinces.

LAUREL | P7...

DTI-10 closely monitors prices, supply of goods

By Apipa Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Department of Trade and Industry-10 (DTI-10) assured the public that it is keeping a close watch over the prices and supply of basic goods.

This was disclosed by Julie Nieva, DTI-10 information officer, during the press conference on the Northern Mindanao January 2023 Inflation Report spearheaded by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-10, Feb. 17.

She said that each town and city in the area has its own local price coordinating council (LPCC) whose job is to keep an eye on the prices of goods in major stores and make sure they match the suggested retail prices (SRPs).

Nieva said the LPCC is headed by the local chief executives with members from national government agencies like DTI, the Department of Agriculture, and

the Department of Energy, among others.

She also said that, in addition to the LPCC, the DTI has its own price and supply monitoring team. This team checks on major businesses every day to make sure they are following the suggested prices and stock levels.

The report of the price and supply monitoring team, she said, is submitted weekly to the DTI central office.

Following the PSA report that the inflation rate in northern Mindanao hit 8.4 percent in January this year, Nieva reminded the public to be wise consumers by budgeting their money and prioritizing their basic needs.

She also suggested that before going to supermarkets or grocery stores, check the suggested retail price (SRP) of the goods, which is available online. (APB | PIA-10)

Inflation in NorMin hits 8.4% in January 2023

By Apipa Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The inflation rate in northern Mindanao soared to 8.4 percent in January 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority-10 (PSA-10) said.

Janith Aves, PSA-10 officer-in-charge, said at a press conference that the inflation rate has gone up by 0.6 percentage points since December 2022, when it was 7.8 percent.

She said the main driver of inflation in January was food and non-alcoholic beverages, with an inflation rate of 12.1 percent, up from 11 percent in December 2022.

"The top contributors to

135 Bukidnon youths capacitated as government interns

MALAYBALAY CITY –

One hundred thirty-five youths of the province were hired as government interns under the Department of Labor and Employment-10’s

(DOLE-10) Government Internship program (GIP) and were given a virtual program orientation on 1 February 2023 through Google Meet.

Raul Valmores, DOLE-X Bukidnon Provincial Field Office (Buk PFO) chief, said the orientation focused on the provisions under DOLE Department Order No. 204-2019 or the implementing guidelines of the said program as they begin their career journey towards public service.

Discussed were the guidelines, rules and regulations set by the Civil Service Commission, allowances/stipends to be earned equivalent to the highest prevailing minimum wage in the region, and coverage for one year of Government Service Insurance System group insurance.

Valmores said the newly-hired interns are now

deployed to various government offices within the province, mostly in Public Employment Service Offices (PESO) for six months from Feb. 1 until July 31, 2023.

Moreover, intern Niña Shena Ibona of Libona town said she is grateful for hiring her to financially help her and at the same time allows her to gain work experience as she moves up the career ladder.

“I am very thankful to DOLE and to all the staff implementing the program. I will do my very best as a productive worker since this is an opportunity for me to enhance my skills and knowledge in public service to reach my full potential. This is like a training ground

for me," Ibona said.

GIP is a component of KABATAAN 2000 program of the Department which aims to provide opportunities and engage young workers, ages 18-30 years old to serve the general public in government agencies/entities' projects and programs at the national and local levels.

It also provides the young poor/indigent an opportunity to demonstrate their talents and skills with the ultimate objective of attracting the best and the brightest who want to pursue a career in government service, particularly in the fields and disciplines related to labor and employment.

the 1.1 percentage point increase of inflation in food and non-alcoholic beverages were vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas and pulses which accelerated its inflation by six percentage points," Aves said.

Onions were one of the contributors to the uptrend in inflation of vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas, and pulses.

Food commodities that primarily contributed to the inflation of food and nonalcoholic beverages are fish and other seafood at 13.6% inflation, with flying fish as the major contributor; and meat and other parts of slaughtered land animals at 14.8% inflation, with fresh pork as the main contributor.

Aves also said housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, which made up 5.3% of inflation in January, and personal care and other goods and services, which made up 5.6% of inflation, were the other factors.

She said the sources of the spike in the inflation of housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels were rentals at 5.1 percent; LPG at 14.1 percent, and wood fuel at 5.1 percent.

"The major contributor to the 1.5 percentage point increase of inflation of personal care and miscellaneous goods and services is other appliances, articles, and products at 3.9 percent from 3 percent in December of 2022," she added.

(APB | PIA-10)

DA-10, PHilMech beef up support to rice farmers in MisOr

BALINGASAG, Misa -

mis Oriental – The Department of Agriculture-10 (DA-10) Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), provincial government of Misamis Oriental (PGMO), and the First Community Cooperative (FICCO) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the implementation of its Rice Processing System II (RPS II) project under the RCEF-Mechanization Program at Barangay San Isidro, Balingasag, February 8.

The RPS II is targeted to serve around 500 hect-

ares of rice area with a total project cost of P61.7 million, consisting of a 1-unit multistage rice mill worth P53.7 million with a milling input capacity of 2-3.5 tons per hour and 2 units of recirculating dryer amounting to P8 million (12 tons per batch).

Carlene C. Collado, DA-10 officer-in-charge and regional executive director, disclosed that the project is funded under the mechanization component of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) as provided under RA 11203, otherwise known as the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL).

The goal of this part is to make rice farmers more productive, profitable, and competitive on a global scale by making it easier for them to get and use the right production and postproduction mechanization technologies.

In line with the development of unified and integrated agriculture, DA regional field offices are tasked with issuing a certificate that will officially recognize and authorize farmer cooperatives and associations (FCAs) as eligible beneficiaries of the DA-RCEF program.

(DA-10 | PIA-10 |

mis Oriental)

DTI-10 Information Officer Julie Nieva assures consumers that DTI keeps a close watch over the prices and supply of goods. (DCC | PIA-10)

Janith Aves, PSA-10 officer-in-charge, presents the northern Mindanao Inflation Report for January 2023 in a press conference. (DCC | PIA-10)

Misa-

The DA-10 PhilMech, PGMO, and FICCO signed a MOA for the implementation of its Rice Processing System II (RPS II) project. (DA-10)

Grassroots innovation project to bridge gap in communities in the Bangsamoro

MARAWI CITY – The mapping of science and technology intervention and innovation for BARMM’s grassroots communities has started, following the turnover of the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) Program's Manual during the activity, Feb. 13-14, in Cotabato City.

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) received the program's manual from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-11) during the two-day activity dubbed "SalikLakbay Solutions Mapping Trainer's Training and Immersion."

The SalikLakbay is a collaborative journey of solution mapping in grassroots communities across the country.

It is a combination of two Filipino words: Saliksik, which means "to explore or research," and Lakbay, which means "to go on a trip."

According to MOST Minister Engr. Aida Silongan, the GRIND Program is not just about providing technological solutions but also about empowering communities to drive their own development.

"Last December 2022, the MOST, as the implementing agency, signed a tripartite MOA with DOST and the National Research Council of the Philippines for the project Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND), bringing science and technology closer to the margins," Silongan said.

"By working together, we can help support the innovative ideas of the communities and bring them to the market, providing them

with the tools they need to achieve economic stability and growth," she added.

The Minister added that through these partnerships, the government of the day can work together to support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the Philippine Development Plan, the Bangsamoro Development Plan, the Chief Minister’s 12-Point Priority Agenda, and the Philippine Innovation Act.

Meanwhile, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations USec. Sancho Mabborang, in a virtual message, said, "We have identified this program as part of our endeavor toward secure technologies so that we can achieve the new direction of our regional operation and sustainable communities."

Also present at the event was GRIND Ambassador Kyle Douglas Jennermann, a.k.a. "Kulas," a Canadian vlogger known for his "Becoming Filipino" Youtube channel.

"It is very exciting for me to see the diversity, unique knowledge, and diverse experience of the people outside and inside the BARMM. Together, we bridge the gap into empowering people to see the positive innovations that the communities are doing here in BARMM," Jennermann shared.

Dir. Diane Maharjan, executive director of the National Innovation Council Secretariat, NEDA; Dr. Anthony Sales, regional director of DOST-11; Dr. Kenneth Barroga, assistant regional director of DOST-11; and Dir. Nasrudin Buisan, director of II-Research and Development Services, were also present at the event. (BIO | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

Former rebels in MisOcc face new future, new life

By Shaine Mae Nagtalon

OROQUIETA CITY – The former rebels in the Province of Misamis Occidental face a bright future and new life after receiving cash rewards and food packs from the provincial government here through the efforts of Governor Henry Oaminal, Feb. 7, at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center.

Some 98 former rebels received P3,000 in cash for fare allowance, and one squad leader received P500,000 in cash from Oaminal as financial assistance for returning to mainstream society.

“My brothers and sisters, we have created a special program in addition to the privileges and benefits outlined by our national government for our brothers and sisters in the mountains who will return to our government, live together, and strive to develop our society," Oaminal said.

The governor is grateful that finally one of the squad leaders of the NPA decided to be back in the folds of the law and choose to live peacefully and harmoniously in the community.

“When he steps down, because of your help, this could be the key to completing and achieving an

insurgency-free Misamis Occidental. This time, now that you've come back, many people will be happy. Of course, family, society, and Misamisnons will be happy,” Oaminal expressed.

Meanwhile, 10th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer LTC Jose Andre R. Monje encouraged the members of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law.

The assistance is for immediate support for their families while their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is in process.

Governor Henry Oaminal led the awarding of cash assistance together with 102nd Acting Brigade Commander Eddie Pilapil, 10th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Jose Andre Monje, MOCPPO Provincial Director Marlon Quimno,

and DILG Misamis Occidental Provincial Director Pablio Benitez, Jr., at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center, Capitol, Oroquieta City.

The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is among the strategic initiatives of the government to obtain just and lasting peace by encouraging rebels to lay down their firearms in exchange for a package of assistance and eventually reintegrate themselves into the community.

Among the major priorities in line with the Asenso administration's vision, "Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawaon, Malambuon ug Malipayon," is to finally put an end to insurgency in the province towards a peaceful, happy, and prosperous Misamisnon. (SMRN | PIA-10 | Misamis Occidental)

A total of 99 former rebels in Misamis Occidental receive cash rewards from the provincial government in support of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. (Asenso MisOcc)

The DOST turns over to the MST in BARMM the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) Program's Manual. (BIO | PIA10 | Lanao del Sur)

GRIND Ambassador and vlogger Kyle Douglas Jennermann, a.k.a. "Kulas" says he is excited to see the uniqueness of the people in the Bangsamoro region. (BIO | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

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.

MED | from p1

chairman of the committee on environment.

He said the medical establishments in Cagayan de Oro, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO), would go to Davao or Cebu just to dispose of their waste.

The said councilor wanted to address the concern as he also received a report that there were hospitals that allegedly threw their waste in the sanitary landfill situated in Barangay Pagalungan in this city.

The said act is a clear violation of the city ordinance 13715-2019 that sets the rules on the proper handling, storage, collection, transport, treatment and disposal of hazardous wastes in the city.

AYUDA | from p1

“Kung i-release ni Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy, mu-esplikar ko. Basta didto tulo akong natumbok nga kinahanglan pasakaan gyud og kaso kung naa lang gyud tay political will,” Judith said in an interview on Monday, February 20.

(If Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy would release [the investigation result], I will explain it. I pointed out three [officials] that need to face the charges if we have the political will)

The reinvestigation aims to address the confusion from the first investigation in 2021 due to the problems encountered in the implementation and address the concerns by some residents here who did not

SANCHEZ | from p4

During the early years of American rule in the Philippines, the United States government debated whether a tutelary government would culminate in autonomy or independence.

The new governors of the Philippines continued the rationalization and strengthening of the colonial state started by Spain.

The United States expanded Filipino participation in governance and built a universal

PROBE | from p1 against Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr., February 17, the official’s family stated.

In a press conference held in Cagayan de Oro City, February 18, the governor’s brother, Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong, guaranteed that security forces are already conducting a thorough and swift search to serve justice.

He said they are looking

LAUREL | from p4

bilateral talks requested by the US with China agreed upon at the 2022 G20 meet in Bali, Indonesia to resume critical negotiations on climate change and such critical issues suspended by China in retaliation to the provocative Pelosi visit that earlier that year.

Another theory is that the spy balloon story was floated anticipating the Seymour Hersh exposé of the direct hand of President Joe Biden, circumventing US laws going around

Services that would help the medical establishments were emphasized during the special report of Abaday as the said establishments are paying their taxes and contributing revenue to the city.

Engr. Armen Cuenca, CLENRO head, said the disposing of hazardous waste, under the law, is the primary responsibility of the medical establishments, and the city government just provides assistance.

In 2019, the city government started the foundation of the hazardous waste facility in the Sanitary Landfill in Brgy. Pagalungan and it was finished in late 2020.

However, as of this writing, the said facility has yet to obtain the necessary permit from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of DENR region 10 to operate the said facility, but the CLENRO asked

receive the cash aid.

It can be recalled that the city government received a check for P767,824,000 from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the said special “ayuda” on Aug. 4, 2021.

During the first committee meeting of the said agenda on Sept. 13 last year, Judith said he wanted to reinvestigate the special ECQ ayuda after former city Councilor Eric Salcedo claimed that the previous city council has yet to resolve the issue in the assistance.

Judith said he got the copy of the list of payouts during the distribution of the special ‘ECQ’ ayuda in this city from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).

education system in the metropolitan language.

In southern Mindanao, the United States War Department created the "Moro Province,” an autonomous regional structure covering roughly two-thirds of the island. Constabulary units joined the army to help govern military-controlled special provinces.

During the early American period in Mindanao, there were patches of resistance and unity never merged among leaders

intently at all possible angles of the crime, however, they do not want to forestall the ongoing probe.

"We do not want to preempt the investigation. We are waiting for the result of the investigation, but we do not want to leave any stone unturned," said the sibling.

Rep. Adiong said earlier that he had gotten a vague report that said seven cars, led by a police car and with the governor in a non-bulletproof car in the third car, were supposed

the requirement of congressional consultation in covert action, giving direct instructions to executive officials Blinken, Nuland and Sullivan to use the US Navy to bomb of Nord Stream 2.

The spy balloon caper did not stop the exposé but may have diffused the impact somewhat.

The whole balloon escapade is a lesson for Filipinos not to believe US media too readily, to be on guard for deception and diversionary intent of US news campaigns.

for an exemption due to the problems encountered in the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC).

Cuenca said the facility only accepts hazardous waste from NMMC – a government hospital that is under the management of the Department of Health (DOH).

“We cannot cater to other hospitals except NMMC. Even the city hospital [city government-owned JR Borja General Hospital]. We requested if we could include the city hospital but they did not allow us,” Cuenca said in vernacular.

The local government is currently waiting to finish the wastewater treatment facilities that are under the supervision of the City Engineers Office to build in the entire sanitary landfill in Brgy. Pagalungan.

The said facility is the only lacking requirement before the

After examining the list, the said councilor believed that there were discrepancies as there were almost similar beneficiaries’ names, he said, with one letter difference from different barangays in the city.

“Imposible kaayo nga pareha ra inyong particulars didto lang mo maglahi nga makadawat ka in the same barangay. Dili na nimo ma attribute nga statistical error,” Judith said.

(It’s so impossible that you have the same particulars with little differences and received [the assistance] in the same barangays. You can’t attribute that as statistical error)

“Granting it’s a statistical error, but one or two barangays maybe. But all through the

of the different Muslim communities.

Seeing conflict in Mindanao is how the government disintegrate the Muslim periphery to incorporate to become hyphenated Filipinos. (MT)

To be continued…

(Ryan Albert Ignacius "RAI" Bollozos Sanchez, 40, is a native of Cagayan de Oro City.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History and currently finishing his Master of Arts in History at Xavier University-

to be going to Wao town when they were ambushed in Maguing town at around 4 p.m. Running on a flat tire, the governor’s car attempted to get away from the scene, and one of the passengers who was accompanying the governor later went out and coincidentally saw another vehicle passing by, which was immediately stopped and asked for help.

KINERI | from p8

to acquiring TB when exposed to the bacteria. Even athletic and healthy people like I was back then can get infected.”

“I faced discrimination from my relatives”

Like Mark, Nino Magpusao stopped his medications when he felt better. Unfortunately, all the symptoms he had came back – cough, fever, nausea –and he returned to the health center once more.

While under treatment, he faced one of the most grueling challenges of his life when he heard one of his relatives mention that his condition was

city government can obtain the permit from EMB-DENR 10.

Cuenca said once they get the permit and the hazardous waste facility is fully ready, they can start accepting waste from all of the hospitals in Cagayan de Oro.

There was no timeline provided by the City Engineers Office to CLENRO as to when the wastewater treatment facilities will be finished but the CLENRO is continuously doing the follow ups.

The said special report of Abaday was referred to his committee on environment, as well as to the committee on health chaired by Councilor Maria Lourdes Gaane for the possible conduct of committee meetings together with the owners of medical establishments in this city for further discussions.

(Franck Dick Rosete | MT)

rest barangays, same thing,” he added.

Apart from that, Judith also said that he has attached affidavits of some beneficiaries who did not receive the cash aid despite being tagged as received with their signatures.

BenCyrus Ellorin from the communications group of the City Mayor’s Office confirmed that the said committee report was received by Uy and it is now under review with the City Legal Office.

Judith said once the local chief executive released the result, he will call on the public to find individuals who have the courage to file the case against the three persons involved. (MT)

Ateneo de Cagayan. He is currently a full-time faculty in the Department of General Education and Interdisciplinary Studies in Xavier Ateneo – teaching Readings in Philippine History, The Life, Works and Writings of Jose Rizal, and Interdisciplinary Studies subjects. He taught parttime at the Liceo de Cagayan University teaching Southeast Asian History and Government, and U.S. Government and Foreign Policy. You may reach him at rsanchez@xu.edu.ph)

The official was then put in a car and told to go to the municipal hall of the town of Amai Manabilang, which was the closest place to where they were.Upon reaching the place, wounded individuals were brought to Kalilangan Provincial Hospital, the closest facility that could give them direct medical attention. (CRG | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

contagious, and that everyone should stay away from him.

In spite of what he heard, he continued with his treatment and finished in 22 months. Today, he is a survivor advocate with TB People Philippines.

“I talk with people who have the same condition and listen to their concerns, questions, and even problems so that we would know how to help them,” he said. “I myself went through them as well so I think it's fitting that someone who has experienced the same should be able to reach out to these people. Because I believe that ‘bawat kwento ay may kwenta’.” (PR | FHI 360)

Lake Lanao, a magnificent freshwater where biodiversity dwells

LAKE Lanao is top of the most captivating and picturesque lakes in the Philippines.

With a surface area of about 340 square kilometers, it is the second-largest lake in the country and the largest of all in the Mindanao region.

Lake Lanao is in the province of Lanao del Sur of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The water comes from five substantial streams, Ramain, Taraka, Gata, Masiu, and Bacayawan Rivers.

The lake is also one of the fifteen ancient lakes in the world due to tectonicvolcanic action.

It is a proclaimed watershed reserve and a protected area following National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992 (Republic Act No. 7586).

The lake serves as a res-

ervoir for hydroelectric power generation, which generates 70% of the electricity the people of Mindanao use.

Several endangered and restricted-range species have been documented around Lake Lanao, as the lake is reported to support large numbers of waterfowl.

About twenty fish species of these are endemic to the lake, but many other fishes have been introduced.

It is also home to various mollusk species. Mammals include wild pigs, deer, and many endemic small mammals.

Some significant problems surrounding the Lake

Lanao Watershed include illegal logging, small-scale mining and quarrying activities, and soil erosion, leading to siltation and increased turbidity of the waterways and lake.

The construction of additional spillways for the

hydroelectric power station involves more dredging of riverbanks and destruction of riparian habitat.

Hunting causes massive disturbance on the lake and some pollution from insecticides and herbicides.

Mindanao’s most crucial lake faces a severe threat as native fish species that were once abundant are now vanishing at an alarming rate.

Invasive alien species, the second most significant threat to biodiversity worldwide, exist in areas where they are not naturally present.

Over-exposed rivers would have devastating effects on people and the environment, including reduced access to safe drinking water, deficiency of water for agriculture, loss of river transportation passageways, and loss of marine habitat. (Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy-BARMM)

‘Kineri Ko To’: The many faces of TB

IN an effort to raise awareness of Tuberculosis (TB) and that it can be cured, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through its TB Innovations and Health Systems

Strengthening (USAID’s

TBIHSS) project has come out with stories of hope, revival and healing for individuals facing the condition.

USAID’s TBIHSS is a five-year project designed to bring a dynamic and strategic approach to accelerate

the fight against TB in the Philippines.

Dubbed “Kineri Ko To,” the campaign features online episodes that tell the story of three individuals – Mark Agana, Nino Magpusao, and Louie Teng – and

their many battles against Tuberculosis, and how they overcame it.

“My TB recurred”

Mark Agana was diagnosed with Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) in 2014. He, however, didn’t comply

with the TB treatment, resulting in TB's reactivation in 2016.

It was then that he started again his treatment for extrapulmonary TB at a government TB clinic (TB DOTS at CHO Koronadal),

religiously taking his TB meds daily.

He also focused on getting stronger by eating healthy foods, more fruits, getting enough sleep at six to eight hours a day, and drinking a lot of water.

Today, Mark is back on track. He has since regained his strength, gained mass, and lived a healthy lifestyle.

“I have also been doing the rounds, speaking in radio stations based in Mindanao as tb survivor advocate,” he said. “I also use social media platforms to communicate about TB prevention and care. I learned that everyone is vulnerable

Contingents from different areas in Barangay Macabalan perform during a street dancing competition Monday ahead of the village’s annual fiesta celebration on Feb. 22. (Photo courtesy of Pitik ni Tabs)

The MENREdukasyon Series of the Ministry aims to deliver fast facts and what the Bangsamoro needs to know about BARMM’s environment, natural resources, and energy management and development. (MENRE-BARMM)

While under treatment, Nino Magpusao faced one of the most grueling challenges of his life. (Photo supplied) Mark Agana was diagnosed with Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) in 2014. (Photo supplied)

Louie Teng had no cough but she went through a series of conditions, including discrimination from relatives and mental health issues.