THE MINDANAO TODAY JANUARY 18-19, 2023

Oro archdiocese marks 90th year

By Uriel Quilinguing Contributing Editor

THE Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro will mark its 90th year as an ecclesiastical province on Friday, January

20, this year.

“We consider this year as (a) significant milestone of our history as an ecclesiastical territory in Mindanao,” said Archbishop Jose A. Cabantan.

He invited all believers

to join him in thanking God for all the graces and those responsible – clergy, consecrated and lay persons – “for living out our faith and by transmitting it” while in journey to fulfill God’s mission.

The Diocese of Cagayan

de Oro was created on January 20, 1933 and was elevated as an archdiocese on June 29, 1951.

The archdiocese consists of 70 parishes in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental,

PRO-10: NorMin New year revelries peaceful

By Jasper Marie Rucat

THE New Year and Christmas celebrations remained peaceful and orderly, with no major untoward incidents recorded, said Maj. Joann Navarro, police regional office spokesperson, in an episode of Talakayan sa PIA, a media forum, at SM CDO City Uptown, here.

Based on monitoring, “We have a one stray bullet

Oro rolls out weeklong Chinese New Year

By Nef Luczon

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The city government joined the Filipino-Chinese commu-

nity Monday in launching a week-long celebration of the Chinese New Year, with a focus on the contributions of Filipino-Chinese Kagayanons

to the city's development over the decades.

During the opening program, city administrator Roy Hilario Raagas said that

without the hard work and diligence of Filipino-Chinese traders, the city's economic development would not have

Dancers from a local school perform during the opening ceremony of the weeklong Chinese New Year celebration at a mall in Cagayan de Oro Monday, Jan. 16. (Jigger Jerusalem | MT)

regions

Soldiers recover firearms, ammo in Agusan del Sur

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Through the information offered by former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, government troopers recovered highpowered firearms and ammunition in the hinterlands of Agusan del Sur over the weekend.

Lt. Col Sandy Majarocon, the Army’s 26IB commander, lauded the former rebels for leading their troops in Sitio Kinambukadyang, Barangay Binicalan, San Luis town, and successfully recovered the concealed firearms on Saturday.

Recovered from the area were two Garand rifles, a Carbine rifle, and more than 200 pieces of ammunition.

“We are also thankful

for the support of the communities that helped our troops and the former rebels recover the high-powered firearms and ammunition,” Majarocon said in a statement.

The 26IB will continue to intensify its initiatives and efforts to secure the residents in far-flung communities from the nefarious activities of the NPA insurgents, he said.

“We are also urging the remaining NPA rebels in the province to lay down their arms and surrender,” he added.

Col. Dennis Siruno, said Jerome, 30, also handed over to authorities a 9mm revolver and a rifle grenade. (PNA)

Confiscated logs turned into 7.6K school armchairs

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Students from 143 public schools in Agusan del Sur has started using the 7,667 newly-fabricated armchairs handed over by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, an official said Wednesday.

Norman Asugan, the provincial environment and natural resources officer, said the armchairs were made from 498.31 cubic meters of confiscated logs and flitches that were turned over to the provincial government last year.

“These logs and flitches were donated to the provincial government in a deed of donation signed

on Oct. 14, 2022 between Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Caraga Region (DENR-13) Executive Director Nonito Tamayo and Governor Santiago Cane Jr.,” Asugan said in an interview.

On Tuesday, both officials led the turnover of the armchairs to the province’s Department of Education (DepEd) office, represented by Superintendent Miverva Albis, at the provincial government center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

In a statement, the DepEd-Agusan del Sur thanked the DENR-13 and the provincial government for the armchairs. (PNA)

6 BIFFs members yield in Maguindanao Sur

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Six Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFFs) surrendered to authorities after intense operations against them in Maguindanao del Sur, an official said Monday.

Lt. Col. Jayson Domingo, commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion, said the BIFF batch was presented dur -

ing rites 9n Sunday at the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade (1MBde) headquarters at Camp Leono in Tacurong City.

Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi, 1MBde commander, Maguindanao provincial administrator Cyrus Torreña and Rep. Mohammad Tong Paglas welcomed the surrenderers.

“The surrenderers

claimed they were tired of running away from pursuing military forces,” Domingo said in a statement.

The group also turned over a 60mm mortar launch pad, an M16 rifle, a .30-caliber Garand rifle, a Carbine rifle, a rocket-propelled grenade and an improvised explosive device.

“We envy our former companions who surren -

Promoted cops in PRO-13 told to refrain from 'corruption, malice'

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Brigadier Gen. Pablo Labra II, the director of the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13), has welcomed the promotions of 1,379 police personnel in the region and told them to refrain from "any forms of corruption and malice."

Labra led Tuesday the mass oath-taking, and the donning and pinning of ranks to the newlypromoted Police Commis-

sioned Officers (PCOs) and Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCOs) in the region.

“Continue doing what is right and never get discouraged by any circumstances that may try to challenge a person’s faith in himself, his job, and his organization,” Labra told the newly-promoted officers.

He also encouraged them to continue to "live for the purpose of serving and protecting the country and people."

At least 93 PCOs in PRO-13 got their promotions this year that included three majors, 80 captains, and 10 lieutenants.

Likewise, 1,286 PNCOs were also promoted comprising 66 executive master sergeants, 105 chief master sergeants, 126 staff master sergeants, 119 master sergeants, 229 staff sergeants, and 641 corporals.

“To everyone, do not engage in any illegal activities,” Labra said. (PNA)

DTI-11 puts up 286 shared service facilities, helps 1,370 MSMEs

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry in the Davao Region (DTI11) has put up 286 shared service facilities (SSF) and helped 1,370 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the region

since 2013, an official said Monday Maria Belenda Ambi, DTI-11 director, said the SSF projects did not only assist MSMEs with their respective operations but also aided 4,146 other beneficiaries by generating 1,497 employment opportunities.

“We are optimistic that our beneficiaries will continue to maximize and optimize the benefits of the SSF projects we have provided them with,” Ambi said in a statement.

Since 2013, Ambi said DTI-11 managed to "progressively address" the gaps

and bottlenecks in the value chain of priority industry clusters in the region by providing machinery, equipment, tools, and other related accessories for processing, production and manufacturing to the 1,370 MSMEs.

“They can also approach

our provincial and field offices, including our Negosyo Centers throughout the region, for any form of assistance, especially technical,” she said.

The cooperative has established a reputable name in the province since 2005.

(PNA)

dered earlier, as they are now living peacefully with their families; we want to be at home, too,” a certain Omar, one of the surrenderers, was quoted as saying in the dialect.

Initially, the surrenderers were each given financial assistance, a bag of rice, and other provisions by the provincial government. (Edwin Fernandez | PNA)

Zambo guard killed, 3 hurt

Maj. Francis Briones, Zamboanga City Police Office’s Station 11 chief, identified the fatality only as a Philix, 60, who was shot around 6:20 a.m. Monday at Taha Wharf in Barangay Baliwasan.

Wounded were Albasar Abdul Amiril, 37; Mohammad Taha Panolera Saddalani, 26; and Saramae Panolera Saddalani, daughter of the private wharf owner.

The Taha wharf caters to cargo wooden-hulled vessels plying to the southern Philippines’ provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. (Teofilo Garcia, Jr. | PNA)

Troops from the Army’s 26th Infantry Battalion recover firearms in Agusan del Sur. (Photo courtesy of 26IB)

Maguindanao del Sur Rep. Mohammad Tong Paglas (3rd right) hands over a check. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

Ninety-three Police Commissioned Officers and 1,286 Non-Commissioned Officers belonging to PRO-13.. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A security guard was killed while three others were wounded in a shooting at a private wharf here on Monday.

Marawi CSWD ensures needy PWDs get financial assistance

By Claire Gigje

MARAWI CITY – Heeding the monetary concerns of the disabled population, the City Social Welfare Development Office (CSWDO) underscored that it is doing its best to provide cash assistance to persons with disabilities (PWDs).

CSWDO Officer-inCharge Rismirah Adap shared that as they are being directed to serve the Filipino people, they coordinate with the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) of the Bangsamoro region, which implements the “Kalinga para sa may mga Kapansanan” program.

“This is the service and mandate given to us as social workers and public servants. We are always available to assist in the needs of our fellow citizens,” she said.

Adap stated that for PWDs to get assistance, they have to register themselves first, however, she explained that their office cannot instantly issue PWD identification (ID) cards now, unlike before when they could automatically give IDs with control numbers.

She explained that this is due to the enforced Philippine Registration for PWD, wherein registration must

go through a digital process.

Adap stated that PWDs can opt to register themselves online, but they suggest letting their office do it as each entry on the registration form cannot already be changed.

She likewise mentioned that the registration is only valid for three years, thus, PWDs must process their renewal to update their status, specifically those with a physical disability caused by accidents, which can recover after some time of treatment.

Besides the online registration, Adap further underlined that they see to it that only the indigent can pass the process, as they are the ones needing the help.

“Not all PWDs can receive because this is intended for those who are in need, those who cannot buy their medicines and address their needs as PWDs. They are more prioritized. We give them broader attention so that if they have an ailment, they will heal,” she said.

Recently, the CSWDO and MSSD conducted a payout wherein at least 2,654 PWDs received their annual cash assistance worth P6,000. (CRG | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

MisOr-PPO, 16IB hold community outreach program in Claveria

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental – The Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office (MORPPO) together with the 16th Infantry “Maglilingkod” Battalion (16IB) successfully held a community outreach program in the far-flung community of Kalhaan, Barangay Minalwang, Claveria, January 8.

“This activity is in support of PNP KASIMBAYANAN and EO 70, or the Whole-of-Nation Approach

KASIMBAYANAN, which stands for "Kapulisan, Simbahan at Pamayanan," is a revitalized program that connects the Philippine National Police (PNP), the general public, faith-based organizations, and key stakeholders towards peaceful, safe, and protected communities.

Villamor stressed that the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and religious sector are still working for peace in Misamis Oriental and the Philippines as a whole, even with the change of administration.

About 70 people were very happy to get food packs, school supplies, and a free haircut as a result of the event.The commu -

nity also received ten solar streetlights.

The 16th Infantry "Maglilingkod" Battalion is in sync with its law enforcement counterparts as they continue to support the national government’s thrusts through the Whole-of-Nation Approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace and development.

(Vincent Philip Bautista| 16IB | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

DENR-10

records successful pigeon captivity breeding in CDO

CAGAYAND DE ORO

CITY – The successful captive breeding of a Mindanao Bleeding Heart Pigeon (Gallicolomba crinigera) in Barangay Cugman, December 27, bolsters the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)10's wildlife conservation efforts.

The newly hatched Mindanao Bleeding Heart Pigeon (MBHP) and its parents are being cared for by Dr. Miguel David L. De Leon, a conservationist and director of the Return Flights Raptor Facility (RFRF) and the Robert S. Kennedy Bird

Conservancy. This species is endangered and is only found in the Philippines.

De Leon told DENR10 Regional Executive Director (RED) Henry A. Adornado about the important project after sending a team to monitor and record its success.

A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed by the then Regional Executive Director, now Assistant Secretary for Field OperationsEastern Mindanao, Ruth M. Tawantawan, and De Leon on the Philippine Raptors Conservation Program on July 1, 2014,

to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” MORPPO Provincial Director Gonzalo Villamor shared.

Around 70 residents benefit from the activity and are overjoyed to receive food packs, school supplies, and a free haircut. The community also received ten solar streetlights. (16IB)

Marawi City Social Welfare and Development Office OIC Rismirah Adap. (PJF | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

GERRY J. CAÑO, PHD President

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

of termites

Nazarene on the ground

(2nd of 2 parts)

IREALIZE that one has to be on the ground to listen to what people really pray for.

To pray, we need to feel our bodies, people’s bodies, people’s suffering bodies or joyful bodies, celebrating bodies.

be bodily. Our bodies are the only ways we have to God.

This incarnational approach to the divine runs counter to the intellectualist Western tradition which privileges the inner mental state, the esoteric experience, the internal consciousness.

BANDO

Their prayer made me also look into myself and utter my deepest prayer from within my heart.

Right after communion, a group of people next to us, opened their baon, began distributing food packs, and started eating.

The Platonic disdain for the material dismisses the bodily, the sensuous and the ordinary as quite base and lowly.

Yet we can only think of God through these sensuous realities.

JOHN M. DEL BANDO Editor-in-Chief JIGGER JERUSALEM Associate Editor

It was still the communion rite (because the priest was still on the lectern thanking a long list of dignitaries who helped him organize the event).

But for the people on the ground, it is time to share food together with “the body of Christ.”

The food and water were not only for their group. It was for all who want it. I shared my food pack to the person next to me; I just took the water.

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Liturgists can debate without end about liturgical rules during the Mass. But is this not the real communion?

A communion not only of wafer (the body of Christ as food for the “soul”?) but also of real food for tired and hungry bodies which were queueing for hours? A real communion of lives, of peoples, of bodies.

For spirituality can only

It is thus imperative that all pastors and church ministers immerse themselves and get involved in the tempo of people’s practices.

Synodality is not only about listening to words and sharing our minds; it needs bodies!

Moreover, if the Church is to help mediate and channel God’s salvation into the human community, these practices should be considered as the way in which the Church must walk and think for it is here that people articulate the acts of God experienced in their everyday life.

For ordinary people, these everyday practices which are deeply intertwined with one’s cultural memories and religious histories are the only wells from which they can draw the strength needed in their daily struggle for survival.

(2nd

of 2 parts)

WHETHER you look at it one way or the other, this is tantamount to wholesale accusation of high ranking officials of the PNP.

What about junior officers and the rank-andfile policemen, who, we can safely assume as many times more in number than the high-ranking officers who are likewise involved in the illegal drug business?

How is the good Secretary thinking of getting rid of them? Are they next? Or, is it assumed that when the senior officers are out those rogue policemen down there will just stop?

Abalos admitted that the lure of “drug money” is very tempting and, more often, irresistible.

We see a seemingly confused DILG Secretary who is bent on trying a drastic formula to cleanse the PNP, and yet, on the other hand admits that “drug money” is the real game changer here.

How does this work? A “committee of five” shall be created to review/assess the status of every resigned PNP Officer and submit recommendations to the President through the DILG Secretary.

This will be followed by lifestyle checks on those who have heeded the call for courtesy resignations, according to PNP Chief Azurin.

The President shall then act to accept or reject the “courtesy resignations” as

the case may be.

As to what happens to those whose resignations are accepted by the President, the DILG Chief was not clear on this.

We only know that the consequence of those whose resignations are accepted will cease to perform their duties and be separated outright from the police organization.

The normal thing that would follow is a full investigation of those whose resignations were accepted by the President.

What will they do with those criminally indictable? Or those whose evidence of guilt is strong?

Abalos will have no choice but to file charges in court which he was avoiding from the beginning.

What will “courtesy resignations” achieve if the courts are the last and final destination of all of these?

Well, the immediate separation from the service of those whose resignations are accepted is ascertained through this process.

Can’t the DILG restrict the movement of the more than 10 suspected highranking officers while they are on active duty? Of course it can through administrative proceedings and other preventive measures.

What else will “courtesy resignation” achieve? It may still entitle the “gang of more than 10” of their separation benefits if they are not dishonorably discharged from the service.

(2nd of 2 parts)

LIKE my mother, Maria said she considers her sons as gifts from the Santo Niño.

She admitted that she asked the Child Jesus why would He give something precious and the suddenly take it away.

I disagreed with her. I told her that it was not God who took her sons away but the people behind the bloody war on drugs.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency reported that there were at least 5,552 people who were killed in legitimate anti-narcotics police operations from July 2016 to December 2019.

News organizations and human rights groups, however, have claimed that the death toll is about 30,000. The victims included at least 54 children during the first year of the “war.”

These victims were somebody’s father, mother, daughter, or son. They were all “gifts” from God and their lives were taken by somebody who does not value that.

Believers and non-believers will agree that the right to life is a fundamental and father of all human rights. States, therefore, must guarantee that the right to life, among other human rights, have to be respected. It is how civilized nations supposedly work.

The Philippines’ anti-narcotics campaign is not wrong, it is even necessary to combat the proliferation of illegal drugs.

What is wrong is how the author and the proponents of the campaign think or perceive human life.

What makes it worse is the fact that a lot of Filipinos, including legislators, politicians, police officers, and even ordinary citizens who support the program claim to be “Christians.”

Some members of the clergy, who would claim that they are against the “war on drugs,” fail to condemn those

behind the killings.

These so-called Christians seemed to not distinguish a human person from a cockroach.

Sociology professor Jayeel Serrano Cornelio said Filipino devotion to the Child Jesus “revolves around suffering and struggle.”

It is true. But these sufferings were brought to us by the very people in the government who are supposed to protect our right to life.

The killings continue and will continue until the Philippine government withdraws this anti-poor policy.

Faith and religiosity is deeply embedded in the lives of the Filipinos, but our perception of human life and the right to life seems to contradict the teaching of whatever religion we belong to.

We must look at human life not just as a fundamental human right but as a gift from the Creator who also gave us free will.

This week, as the Philippines celebrates the feast of the Santo Niño, I hope that Filipinos will be reminded that human life is a gift and that we are responsible not only for our own life but for the world where we belong. (LiCAS.news)

You don’t burn the house to get rid

Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, C.M.

PWDs thankful for monetary aid from gov’t offices

By Claire Gigje

MARAWI CITY – Persons with disabilities (PWDs) in this city who received their yearly P6,000 in financial assistance showed their delight, seeing the aid as one that can help them with their needs.

This effort was realized through the “Kalinga para sa may mga Kapansanan” enforced by the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) of the Bangsamoro region in close coordination with the local government unit here through the City Social Wel-

fare and Development Office (CSWDO).

Monacaya Mama Macarimbang, who became disabled after suffering from a mild stroke, was happy to receive cash assistance from the government.

She also prayed for additional aid, especially for poor citizens like her.

“This is a big help for my family. I will use this to buy my medicine, especially now that medicines are expensive… If they can still help more people, I hope they can, because they can be a big help to those in need. A lot of people need the MSSD and CSWD,” said Marawi

NIA-10 maps out plans for 2023

LIBERTAD, Misamis

TESDA-10 holds skills training for Gingoog flood survivors

By Vincent Philip Bautista

GINGOOG CITY – A total of 530 beneficiaries displaced by the onslaught of heavy rains last December 2022 were provided with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) CommunityBased Livelihood Trainings at the Barangay Lunao Covered Court, January 11.

Organized by TESDA-10’s Regional Office and TESDA-Misamis Oriental, the training conducted is part of the agency’s approach to rebuilding the lives of disaster-stricken areas through the provision of community-based training programs to capacitate, secure, and improve their socio-economic well-being. The skills capacity-building

Oriental – The National Irrigation Administration-10 (NIA-10) maps out its 2023 plans as it holds a three-day performance assessment and 2023 direction setting as part of its annual activities to better serve its farmer

clientele, January 12–14.

As part of its efforts to improve its services to the irrigators' association in the region, the agency's Engineering and Operation Division (EOD) held a workshop to look at the status and results of all the projects it

has worked on, as well as the problems and best ways to deal with them.

During the workshop, NIA 10 Regional Manager Leonila Tenestrante stressed that the agency should be on track and guided to reach its mission and vision, which would improve the quality management system in the region.

"Everything in the engineering and operations division should be synergized, from the surveying and planning down to the implementation for a progressive and fast-paced delivery of services," Tenestrante shared.

In addition, EOD Division Manager Remegio Ang highlights the challenges that the new NIA Adminis-

trator Eduardo Guillen has laid down for its personnel, that the agency must support the president’s vision to reduce poverty and promote inclusive growth in rural areas aside from its mandate to provide irrigation waters to the farmlands of its beneficiaries.

"We continually prove to be relevant in this society by making projects that could raise farmers from the poverty threshold," Ang said.

The workshop bore output on the upcoming activities for CY 2023 that aim to strengthen the directions and services of the agency and further empower its irrigators’ associations. (NIA-10 | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

City PWDs wait for their turn to claim their annual financial assistance. (CRG | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

A total of 530 beneficiaries displaced by the onslaught of heavy rains last December 2022 were given skills capacity-building training. (TESDA-MisOr)

DOST realizes citronella facility for farmers in Malitbog Higaunon

This project was made possible through the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program of the department. (RMDEP | PSTO Bukidnon)

By Rashia Mae Deva Paano

TO provide additional source of income to 25 Higaunon farmers and their families in Sitio Impahanong, the Department of Science and Technology realizes a citronella facility in the area.

In partnership with the local government unit, the farmers are expected to earn additional income during full operation of the facility in November this year.

Currently, the farmers own and manage a ten-hectare citronella plantation.

The newly installed Citronella Oil Processing through Hydrosteam Distillation will be an alternative upland Livelihood for the members of Agtimaloy Farmers Association Inc. (AFAI).

This intervention comes with equipment, user-guide training, product development, business, and organizational management, and market-matching opportunities.

Mr. Rodolfo Senagonia, chairman of AFAI, extended his gratitude to DOST and LGU Malitbog for supporting their vision.

“Bisag layo mi sa sentro,

maayo gani kay ka abot diri sa among sitio inyong serbisyo,” Senagonia said during the installation that despite the remoteness of Impahanong, he is thankful that the government’s assistance has reached them.

Citronella grass is among the few types of grass that thrive in the area. Before discovering the potential of citronella.

DOST Bukidnon Provincial Director Ritchie Mae Guno envisions the organization to flourish and aims that its success will ripple the opportunity to the rest of the community.

AS the New Year begins, Globe encourages Filipinos to continue supporting local businesses, just as it wrapped up a holiday celebration of giving back.

Through the Globe of Good umbrella program, Globe brings together an ecosystem of impact where stakeholders can connect and work together to help communities in need move forward from the adverse effects of the pandemic.

Under this initiative, the company revived its annual December tradition of holding The Purpose Tree campaign and the Gift Local bazaar with a face-to-face engagement for the first time after two years of virtual activities.

The Purpose Tree is an internal fundraising effort for employees to give back to a worthy cause. Contributions go to the Hapag Movement, Globe’s banner program for hunger alleviation through technology.

As a program, the Hapag Movement aims to address involuntary hunger through technology, including the use of electronic donation platforms, and connects multi-sectoral partners to

product development, business, and organizational management, and marketmatching opportunities. (DOST-10)

comes with

Filipinos urged to continue supporting local businesses

achieve social impact at scale. It also provides livelihood training for a sustainable source of income for beneficiaries.

"Christmas at Globe has always been about giving back. As we pass on our gratitude, compassion and care to our employees, we implore them to do the same by sharing their blessings with our kababayans. With the Hapag Movement as our main advocacy, we hoped to make the Christmas season just as special for those in our partner communities,” said Ato Jiao, Chief Human Resource Officer, Globe Group.

The Purpose Tree launch at The Globe Tower was attended by Hapag Movement partners Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and World Vision Philippines, and Globe executives led by Globe Group President and CEO Ernest L. Cu, Chief Customer Experience Officer and Strategy Management Head Rebecca Eclipse, and Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto, and Jiao.

The leaders hung custom-made Christmas balls with the Hapag Movement

GCash QR Code to serve as an accessible way for employees and office guests to donate to the advocacy.

Meanwhile, Globe Business MSME Group organized the Gift Local bazaar for its clients. The annual activity allows some of their key clients to participate and sell their products to Globe’s employees this season.

“Through Gift Local, we were able to showcase more homegrown brands and products in the market; and now, as we go into our fifth year, we've moved from online selling to creating a more hybrid customer experience,” said KD Dizon, MSME Group Head, Globe Business.

Several small businesses took part in the bazaar, which ran for three days at The Globe Tower, Globe’s Headquarters in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Employees got their pick from diverse offerings such as scented candles, sustainable lifestyle products, fruits, ice cream, cupcakes, specialty coffee, collectibles, and many more.

Globe Business also provided merchants with a

This intervention

equipment, user-guide training,

Globe encourages Filipinos to continue supporting local businesses, just as it wrapped up a holiday celebration of giving back. (Photo supplied)

MINDANAO TODAY

HOROSCOPES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) —

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

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) — A

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

PISCES (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) — Too

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

ARCHDIOCESE | from p1

Camiguin, and Malitbog, Bukidnon with 119 diocesan and 51 religious priests.

There are more than 1.2 million Roman Catholics within the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, the seat of which is at Metropolitan Cathedral of

PEACEFUL | from p1

incident didto nahitabo sa (that happened in) Maramag, Bukidnon niadtong (on) December 24, 11:30 sa kagabion (in the evening),” said Navarro.

In terms of security, the Philippine National Police-10 (PNP-10) puts as many personnel as possible in places where a lot of people gather, like malls, airports, churches, and tourist spots, so that police can be seen more easily.

Navarro said that the PNP also worked with the Bureau of

PWDs | from p5

Macarimbang.

Jasmin Casim, a parent who claimed cash assistance for her autistic son, was also glad about the help given by the government.

She planned on buying medicines and other necessities for her child with the money she received.

For his part, Hussien Dilinogun Malawad, who received

PLANNING | from p8

Card, SMAC, or SMAC Prestige Card upon payment in-store or provide your card number when ordering via SM Store’s Personal Shopper site.

Nowhere else can you help feed the hungry and upgrade your home at the same time than at Our Home and Crate & Barrel, which offer a wide array of modern contemporary furniture, home décor, and dining ware.

This opportunity has been made possible by a partnership between leading digital solutions platform Globe and SMAC, helping to put meals on the table of those in need through Globe's Hapag Movement.

The Hapag Movement leverages technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families who are experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood support.

TESDA | from p5

activities held by the TESDA Technology Institutions were the Basic Solar Installation Demo by the Regional Training Center (RTC)-Tagoloan, Chicken Nuggets Making by the Provincial Training CenterMisamis Oriental (PTC-MOR), Empanada Making Demo by Cagayan de Oro (Bugo) School of Arts and Trades (COBSAT), and Siopao and Donut Making Demo by the Kinoguitan National Agricultural School (KNAS).

Based on the report by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-10 last January 7, 10,302 families or 48,183 individuals living in Gingoog City were affected by the heavy flooding and rains. (TESDA-10 | PIA-10 |Misamis Oriental)

Saint Augustine. But Cabantan, in a message posted online on Monday, January 16, said statistics and probabilities should not determine future of the of the church.

He said the future of the church “involves the immersion of ourselves in the story of our faith” – “serving and

Fire Protection (BFP) and other law enforcement agencies, like the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coastguard, as well as different force multipliers and advocacy groups, to make sure everyone was safe over the holidays.

Pro-active inspections were done based on Republic Act (RA) 7183 with the PNP, BFP, and local government units.

"Sa atong pag-conduct sa pro-active inspection aduna kita'y na confiscate nga illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices (We confiscated illegal

the cash assistance on behalf of his mentally disabled brother, expressed her thanks to the government for the aid.

He said this would be enough to buy the necessities for his brother.

Meanwhile, Ebrahim Imam Dimaawan, who is physically disabled, said the cash grant he got from MSSD and CSWD would be used for his medicines.

With this, he was grateful

Globe initiated the program to help Filipinos severely affected by the pandemic, especially since a Social Weather Stations Survey showed that an

URGED | from p6

free trial until yearend on ChatGenie, an e-commerce solution that helps entrepreneurs easily manage their online shops via chat on Facebook, Instagram, Viber and GLife on GCash.

Through ChatGenie, sellers

PELARIO | from p4

But one further question for all: Can our praying bodies, moving bodies, dancing bodies place themselves on the line and stand up to protect the thousands of dying bodies around us?

Can we speak out against the injustice and callousness of our leaders? Can our faith

DENR | from p3

authorizing him to take temporary custody and care of injured wildlife, particularly raptors, from the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center while also extending medical assistance in rehabilitating injured raptors before releasing them back to their natural habitat.

ORO | from p1

accelerated over the years.

“This goes to show that our brothers and sisters in the Filipino-Chinese community have indeed chosen the city as your home, to be with among us as one, as you consider the city a place worth investing in,” said Raagas, who represented Mayor Rolando Uy.

taking care of those in need in whatever way we can,” as clearly shown during the more than two years of coronavirus disease pandemic.

The direction, he said, still towards small Christian communities because this is where the seeds of faith must be planted, and believers must

firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices during our proactive inspection)," said Navarro.

There was one arrest in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, for selling illegal firecrackers online, but no fires were caused by firecrackers or fireworks.

Engr. Noli de la Rita, information officer of BFP-10, said the top three causes of fire are: 1) electricity, 2) anything to do with cooking, and 3) something that has to do with lighting and the use of candles.

Further, there were 849 fire incidents in 2022, an increase

to the government, as this aid was significant for him as a needy person.

Paridi Barangay Secretary Zendy Palabasan Mustapha likewise expressed her gratitude on behalf of the disabled constituents in her village who received cash assistance from MSSD through the CSWD.

She stated that her worried citizens were overjoyed to learn that they would be compensated.

estimated 15 million Filipinos still suffer from involuntary hunger.

More information about the Hapag Movement can be found

can accept multiple modes of payment, plus arrange and track delivery directly on the messaging thread.

As a contribution to the Hapag Movement, the MSMEs donated their joining fees to the advocacy, which was then matched by Globe Business. The total raised and pledged

be bodily and political?

The bodies which are dying are the same body of Jesus which we receive in communion, and the Jesus on the altar to which we wave in supplication.

Or, shall we keep waving handkerchiefs and dancing in front of our santos while we leave the many others to continue to die on our streets, in

Adornado thanked Dr. De Leon for helping him protect wildlife and praised him for rehabilitating two adult MBHP and helping a chick be born at the RFRF Holding and Captive Breeding Facility near DENR10's Malasag Reforestation Project.

The two MBHPs of unknown gender at the RFRF

Raagas said it was also important for local government officials to meet with Chinese ambassadors two weeks ago to discuss development partnership potentials.

In a statement, Uy said the Chinese New Year festivity, which will culminate on Jan. 22, reminds the city's constituents of how Chinese culture and traditions have also en -

emulate the “restlessness” of St. Augustine of Hippo, the patron of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro.

The 65-year old head of the archdiocese is being assisted by vicar generals Fr. Perseus P. Cabunoc and Mons. Rey S. Monsanto, and Abp. Emeritus Antonio J. Ledesma S.J. (MT)

of 30% from 2021.

There are 10 fireworks- and firecracker-related injuries in December 2022 and January 2023.

Dr. Stephanie Grace Zamora, Head, Research, Epidemiology, Surveillance, and Disaster Response Unit, Department of Health-10, said, “We have one stray bullet injury and nine fireworks-related injuries, two of those from Misamis Oriental and eight from Bukidnon with one stray bullet injury.” (JMOR | PIA-10)

“We are thankful to BARMM and CSWD because they gave the PWDs an opportunity. This is because PWDs have many needs. When they [PWDs] heard about this, they were really happy. They can already buy food and their medicines. I hope this is continuous,” said Mustapha.

In the most recent payout, a total of 2,654 disabled people received financial assistance. (CRG | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

on its official page, while shoppers may also visit smac.ph or download the SMAC app to learn more. (PR | Globe)

donations reached P200,000.

Globe Business also led a Live Selling event on December 2 on its Facebook page, where partner MSMEs got to sell their products.

To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph. (PR | Globe)

their shanties or in the far-flung mountains where violence still continues without them being flashed on our screens?

(This opinion piece, written by Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, was first published in the LiCAS. news website on Jan. 11, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

were turned over by trappers four years ago and treated for noose injuries on the legs; upon recovery, they were placed in a large enclosure mimicking their natural habitat. The MBHP forages on the forest floor and is caught in noose traps set out for various Rail (tikling) and red jungle fowl species. (DENR10 | PIA-10)

riched the Filipinos' customs.

“Treating each other equally (is a virtue), especially in honoring the elderly,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rosa Go, president of the Misamis Oriental Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., said she hopes 2023 would bring “fortune and prosperity, hope and calm.” (PNA)

Pagadian’s Pasalamat Festival 2023, a huge success

By Clennkei Peñalosa

PAGADIAN CITY – The week-long celebration of the Pasalamat Festival 2023 has concluded with Pagadianons and tourists filling the streets to join and witness the climax event, the Street Dance and Ritual Competition; which is back after two years of hiatus since the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Sa Pasalamat Festival, pinasasalamatan talaga namin na ang COVID ay nawala na. For the first time we can celebrate the Pasalamat Festival without any restriction. So sa fiesta namin, at least meron nang street dancing,” said Pagadian Mayor Samuel Co.

The local government of Pagadian gives all-out support in the celebration as it prepared grandiose prizes for all 16 contingents to the Ritual dance showdown.

Barangay Tawagan Sur,

the winning contingent takes home the grand prize of P600,000.00.

Barangay Tuburan placed 2nd and was awarded P500,000.00, Barangay Balangasan placed 3rd and was awarded with P00,000.00.

The 4th place, Barangay Danlugan takes home P300,000.00 and the 5th Place Barangay Tiguma was awarded P250,000.00.

Meanwhile, each nonwinning contingent receives consolation prizes of P180,000.00 each.

Senator Francis Tolentino who was invited to grace the event said this is his first time witnessing a festival dubbed “Pasalamat.”

“What you have here is different. Gratitude is the doorstep to happiness. And Pagadian is showing that.

Nagpapasalamta kayo, ibig sabihin masaya kayo,” Tolentino said.

The Pasalamat Festival

2023 is wrapped up with a Grand Street Party at the city proper with the Bagani Reggae band on the lead.

Thousands of Pagadianons and tourists partied

from Sunday evenning until dawn of Monday, January 16.

The Pagadian City Police Station has reported no untoward incidents dur -

ing the whole duration of the festivity, making the Pasalamat Festival 2023 a successful one. (NBE | CCP | PIA-9)

Duty Free Philippines hops into the Year of the Rabbit

DUTY Free Philippines (DFP) welcomes the Year of the Water Rabbit with the first sale campaign of the year dubbed “Chinese New Year Jan-Pack Sale” on January 21-23, 2023. International travelers, namely the balikbayans, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and foreign tourists, are in for exciting deals as participating brands will offer as much as 20% discount on selected items.

The sale will run on January 21 at DFP’s downtown Fiestamall store in Paranaque City and on January 22-23 at Luxe Duty Free in Pasay City.

The celebration of the Chinese New Year with the traditional lion and dragon dances, believed to bring good fortune, will be held be on January 23 at both the Fiestamall and Luxe Duty Free stores.

There will also be a Chinese Wishing Ceremony to be officiated by Feng Shui master Patrick Lim Hernandez at Luxe Duty Free where shoppers can join and offer their New Year wishes.

The Fiestamall store is open daily from 10am to 7pm while store hours at Luxe Duty Free in Pasay City is from 11am to 8pm.

For more information and updates, visit www.dfp.com.ph or its Facebook and Instagram pages (@dutyfreephils). (PR | DOT)

Planning a New Year home improvement project?

THE new year is here, and what better way to welcome 2023 than by upgrading your living space? If you need home improvement ideas this holiday season, head to Our Home and Crate & Barrel stores where you can help those in need just by shopping.

From now until January 15, 2023, SMAC (SM Advantage Card) members can earn extra SMAC points on select purchases.

And the best part? Half of those extra points will be donated to the Hapag Movement, Globe’s tech-driven initiative against involuntary hunger, and other SM Foundation programs, making it easy to give back while updating your home.

At Our Home, you can earn 1,000 Extra SMAC Points on purchases of participating items, while you can also earn 100 Extra SMAC Points for any purchase from the Entertaining, Kitchen and Dining categories at Crate & Barrel.

To avail of the promo, you can present your SMAC Start

Kim Ling Lion dance group performed today a lion dance at City Hall executive building and other offices of city hall as part of the week-long Chinese New Year festivities in Cagayan de Oro City as Mayor Klarex Uy, city hall officials and employees watched the performance. (Photo courtesy of Jay Arancon | City Information Office)

Barangay Tawagan Sur, the winning contingent, takes home the grand prize of P600,000.00. (Photo supplied)