MDN February 25, 2019

MINDANAO DAILY We innovate... and we lead!

Volume VIII, No. 231

Comelec unveils ‘ballot faces’ for May polls THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Saturday has released the ballot faces for every region to be used in the May 13, 2019 National and Local Elections (NLE). “The ballot faces for #NLE2019 have been posted on the official Comelec website,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in a statement. The public may view the ballot faces at http:// w w w. c o m e l e c . g o v. ph/?r=2019NLE/BallotFaceTemplates. Those who have queries may send an e-mail to law@comelec.gov.ph or call (02) 527-1897.

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Monday, February 25, 2019

COTABATO City--A malfunctioned engine brought down a crop duster in Ampatuan, Maguindanao Saturday morning. A report from the office of Senior Supt. Ronald Briones, Maguindanao police provincial director, said the pilot, identified as Capt. Dennis Pandi, survived the crash. “The chemical sprayer plane was a total wreck’” Briones said. Responding employees and plantation workers of Amardi Banana Corporation rushed Pandi to a hospital in nearby Shariff Aguak town following the incident. The injured pilot works for Davao Airworks, a firm providing chemical spraying services to agricultural plantations across Mindanao. Robert Mauricio of Amardi firm said the aircraft experienced engine malfunction while spraying over the banana plantation in Ampatuan town, forcing its pilot to find an open space for emergency landing. He said the plane hit rows of banana trees before it crashed landed at past 9 a.m. Mauricio said the pilot was declared in stable condition at the Maguindanao provincial hospital. (PNA)

P15.00

Military: ‘We make friends not enemies’ By RUEL V. PELONE Managing Editor with GERRY LEE GORIT Correspondent

See COMELEC, page 11

Pilot survives plane crash

1923

BANGSAMORO IN TRANSITION. Members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the body that

will govern the Bnagsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) take their oath before President Rodrigo Duterte at the Rizal Hall of Malacanang on 22 February 2019. In photo are Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, who was also named Interim Chief Minister, MILF 1st vice chair Ghazali Jaafar, MILF peace implemening chair Mohagher Iqbal (partly hidden) beside former Peace Process Undersecretary Nabil Tan. MindaNews photo by MAnman Dejeto

BTA MEMBERS TAKE OATH Duterte: The road to peace may be long and rough, but I am glad that we have finally reached its endpoint.’

By CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS, MindaNews

A NEW CHAPTER in Philippine history began on Friday, February 22, 2019 at the Rizal Hall here with the leadership of the two Moro liberation fronts that waged half a century of armed struggle to assert their right to self-determination, and representatives from other sectors of Moro society and the minorities in the core territory of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) taking their oath as members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) that would govern the area until the first set of officials is elected and sworn into office on June 30, 2022. Describing the historic event as welcoming a “new era of peace and development in Mindanao,” President Rodrigo Duterte, the country’s 16th President and the first Mindanawon to lead the nation, said, the road to peace may be long and rough, “but I am glad that we have finally reached its endpoint.” The first Philippine President with Moro roots administered the oath of the BTA members, ending it with a Takbir, “Allahu Akbar” (God is the greatest) instead of the usual “So help me God.” Duterte said the BARMM, the new political entity that will replace the 28-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is not just the fulfillment of a campaign promise but “the realization of our collective desire … of all our dreams and end long decades of armed struggle that hindered the growth of the region (that) I also consider my home.” He urged BTA members to “always embody See MEMBERS, page 11

CAGAYAN de Oro City-The Army’s 4th Infantry Division yesterday said it has nothing to do with the alleged “list” identifying 19 individuals and 4 organizations as members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). In a press statement, 4ID Commander Brig. Gen. Franco Nemecio M. Gacal said: “We are making friends not enemies.” Gacal said the document shown by members of Karapatan during an activity held at Philtown Hotel did not come from the military. Karapatan is an alliance of individuals, groups and organizations working for the promotion and protection of human rights in the country. “It (list) does not belong to us and we do not engage in cheap propaganda,” the military official said. 4ID Spokesperson Capt. Regie H. Go said they learned the matter when reporters informed them about the alleged “list” of CPP members in the city on February 22. Members of Karapatan exposed the alleged “military hit list” during the justheld assembly and launching of Hustisya-Northern Mindanao at Philtown Hotel on January 22. In a news release posted online, Karapatan claimed a suspected military agent handed two brown envelopes to hotel guards around 10:30 in the morning on January 22. It said each envelope contained 13 copies of flyers listing organizations of youth and teachers, and tagging names of church workers, lawyers, rights advocates and that of a journalist, as “terrorist members of the New People’s Army and Communist Party of the Philippines.” But Go said the cheap leaflets can be crafted by anybody who wants to sow intrigues and create wedge among the peace loving See MILITARY, page 5

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Monday, February 25, 2019

189 Clarin women beneficiaries get P1M DOLE livelihood assistance

CLARIN, Misamis -- Northern Mindanao Labor and Employment department turned-over the check of financial assistance worth P1 million for the livelihood project on Bigasan Center Project of Clarin BHW Association. DOLE Region 10 director, lawyer Joffrey M. Suyao said the grant was released under the Kabuhayan Program of the department’s Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) that contributes to poverty reDepartment of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-X Misamis Occidental Provincial Chief duction and vulnerability to Leonardo G. Rodrigo (center) leads the actual turnover of DILEEP livelihood project risks of the poor, vulnerable, worth P1 Million to 189 women beneficiaries of Clarin BHW Association at Sanguniang and marginalized workers Bayan Hall, Clarin, Mis. Occ. (Photo Source: DOLE-X Mis. Occ. PFO)

either through transitional emergency employment and promotion of entrepreneurship and community enterprises. Misamis Occidental Provincial Field Office (PFO) Leonardo G. Rodrigo meanwhile said this project is to provide opportunities and better quality of life to each member who is mostly engaged in small sari-sari store (convenience store) business aside from their low-income occupations. The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Clarin, as the accredited co-partner released 450 sacks of rice to the association while all

the members were given a quota for marketing and/or selling purposes, in accordance with the organization policies and guidelines as stipulated in their approved project proposal. In addition, the project ensures that rice is of good quality, as well as, affordable to the constituents. Most of the members have minimal income which cannot suffice for the capitalization of the rice trading to the different barangays of the municipality. Expressing gratitude to DOLE, association president Evelyn Detalla said, See LIVELIHOOD, page 9

31 MisOr former rebels receive E-CLIP assistance CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Misamis Oriental provincial office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in collaboration with the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee members distributed government assistance wherein 31 former rebels took their oath of allegiance, as they were restored of their civilian status. Through Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), each surrrenderee will receive financial assistance worth P65,000. The P50,000 of it is intended for their livelihood assistance, while the P15,000 would serve as their immediate assistance. E-CLIP, a strategic program of achieving the government’s peace and development agenda, provides complete package of assistance to former rebels who were members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People’s Army (NPA), and National Democratic Front (NDF), as well as their family members, who have surrendered to the government to abandon armed struggle and become productive members of the society. With this, DILG Region 10 Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe urged those rebels who have not surrendered yet to grab the opportunity to avail incentives See RECEIVE, page 9

DOLE-X targets 73 MisOcc librarians for labor, human resource confab

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Senior Labor and Employment Officer Jasmin L. Vicente (standing) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Misamis Occidental Provincial Field Office conducts a Labor Relations, Human Relations and Productivity (LHP) seminar to 73 librarians of Mis. Occ. Information Managers and Librarian Association Incorporated (MOIMLAI) held in Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental. (Photo Source: DOLE-X Mis. Occ. PFO)

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental -- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Misamis Occidental pushed for the delivery of services and implementation of programs such as the conduct of labor relations, human relations and productivity (LHP) seminar to information managers and librarians in Misamis Occidental. This is anchored on DOLE’s strategic goals for Filipino workforce to be gainfully employed, globally competitive, secure, safe and healthy as its core. See CONFAB, page 9

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Environment

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DENR 10 leads Bitan-ag Creek clean-up in Cagayan de Oro IN support to DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu’s call to improve the water quality on all rivers in the country, DENR Region 10 Regional Executive Director Arleigh J. Adorable along with other officials and personnel from the Environmental Management Bureau and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau spearheaded a massive clean-up along the mouth (bukana) and coastal areas of Bitan-ag creek in Barangay Lapasan on February 16, 2019, this city. The clean-up is also in line with DENR’s launching of the Recognizing Individuals/Institutions towards Vibrant and Enhanced Rivers (RIVERs) for Life Award last July 4, 2018, wherein it will recognize and honor provincial and community environment and natural resources officers throughout the country who effectively implement in their respective areas of responsibility environmental laws and initiatives related to rivers.

The DENR provincial office of Misamis Oriental headed by OIC, PENR Officer Aldrich Resma were also present during the activity. Forester Nestor Ocampo, the Chief for the Management Division of PENRO-Mis. Or. briefed participants prior to the clean-up. More or less 200 DENR 10 regional office personnel, EMB and MGB and other volunteers from Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Xavier University students, barangay Lapasan Officials and residents joined the activity. A total of 25 cubic meter of combined trash to include plastic containers, cellophanes, diapers and rotten clothes were collected by the volunteers along Bitan-ag creek and its coastal areas. Bitan-ag creek was chosen to be the venue of the activity because it is one of the major waterways of Cagayan de Oro City. It cuts across the major

Monday, February 25, 2019

More or less 200 volunteers from the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Xavier University and Barangay Lapasan Officials and residents join the clean-up drive at Bitan-ag creek in Lapasan in Cagayan de Oro City. The activity was spearheaded by the DENR 10 in support to Secretary Roy A. Cimatu’s call to improve the water quality in all rivers in the country. #TayoAngKalikasan (DENR-RSCIS PR)

residential and business districts of the city from Barangay Camaman-an, Cogon Market, Limketkai

Center, Agora Market and Barangay Lapasan. It is also the main drain of the drainage system of the Co-

gon Market area, Osmena Street, Provincial Capitol Compound, Ramonal Village, Barangay Nazareth

and a portion of Divisoria. #TayoAngKalikasan (DENR-RSCIS MR No. 02-041-2019)

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Monday, February 25, 2019

Opinion

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Pompee exposes ‘scandal’ at City Hall

MAYORAL candidate Pompee La Viña’s series of expose about the “scandal” at the City Hall is getting noticed. Pompee’s recent expose was about the SEERS, reportedly a property management firm, whose incorporators are City Hall employees, appointed by Cagayan De Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno as heads of various sensitive positions at the City Hall. The CYNOSURE was able to monitor La Viña’s program in Magnum radio last week were the mayoral candidate is seriously considering the filing of anticorruption charges against the City Hall’s top officials. Unless, La Viña made true his threat, he would forfeit the confidence of the people of Cagayan De Oro. More so, La Viña would loss his credibility as a candidate and as the future City Mayor. Actually, La Viña asked the legal team of the co-

alition political party to prepare the appropriate charges against the SEERS incorporators this week. Of course, being in the government and occupying sensitive positions, like the incorporators of the SEERS, it is a clear violation of the Code of Conduct of Government Officials and Employees. The case is exacerbated because the SEERS, as a property management firm, reportedly middle in the transactions involving the City Hall. La Viña cited a report that the SEERS were responsible in the procurement and acquisition of “relocation sites.” There are suspicions that the SEERS sold the relocation sites to the city government at a “dictated” price. Not only that, the SEERS reportedly take charge in the collection of the amortizations of the beneficiaries of the “relocation sites.”

Whether the accusations against the SEERS and its incorporators are true, the filing of the appropriate charges against the incorporators was the right move. At least, the SEERS incorporators would be given their day in the court of law. On the same radio program, La Viña named the SEERS incorporators as Teodoro Sabugaa , Jr., Vida Joy Elot , Oliver Egypto, Maricel Rivera and Percy Salazar. Sabugaa is the OIC of the City Social Welfare Department and acting City Administrator, Elot , the City Accountant, Egypto, a City Hall consultant, Rivera, the head of the City Information Office and Salazar, the city’s Budget Officer. These people could not get the juicy positions in the City Hall without the blessing of the City Mayor. Perhaps, La Viña’s gut feeling that the City Mayor is

By HAROLD E. CLAVITE

a national peace framework. As a matter of state principle and policy as mandated by the Constitution, the government shall maintain “peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property” and promote the general welfare. Consistent with the objectives of the Philippine Development Plan for 2017-2022, the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace through peace-building initiatives is optimal in this presidential directive. The whole-ofnation approach as directed by the President is essential for this peace framework to become workable, effective and beneficial. For several years, government efforts have been unhurried in terms of countering the institutional platforms created and built by the CTG, thus, creating a national and international portrayal of failed governance and leadership in many respects. It is now the time for government and people to make calibrated steps to thwart this narrative of a failed ideology that cannot seem to work in this country. While the CPP-NPA-NDF had exhausted varied means of declaring one-sided reports with fabricated facts and figures portraying a negligent and abusive government and security forces to the international community, a consolidated blueprint based on truth and unbiased publicity is extremely important and no other sector of society is best to lead such strategy than the government itself. The President had made a calculated and strategic move in establishing this

approach to a peace framework. It is in these times that the government needs to go offensive against subliminal mechanisms established by the CTG in the international arena. An official report from the NTF, which is co-chaired by the National Security Adviser, has been submitted to the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva for its appropriate action during a recent trip of the NTF to Switzerland. Several legal steps and mechanisms need to be undertaken to formalize the government’s response and position within the human rights work streams of the United Nations, the European Parliament and several EU member states that may not have been fully made aware of the strategies employed by the CTG in obtaining international support, including financial sustenance unwittingly provided by the international community to front organizations of CTG, in the guise of development projects in the countryside. While some UN agencies, EU governments, and the EU Parliament itself “feel good” about sending financial support to community projects in southeast Asia, their vetting processes need to be scrutinized as they might have been indirectly supporting communistterrorist underground activities in the region affecting the very people whose lives they supposedly seek to improve in the name of humanitarian action and development cooperation. In the engagement of the NTF with the European Council in Brussels early

THE Government has taken an important step in confronting long-drawn-out issues brought about by the 50-year existence of the Communist Party of the Philippines bolstered by its militia, the New People’s Army and political arm, the National Democratic Front (CPPA-NPA-NDF). For decades, these communist-terrorist groups (CTG) have been fighting a Maoist-concept guerilla warfare with the primary aim of overthrowing the government. Through the years, new alliances are developed with strategies adapting to changes of the times including political overtone and advances in multimedia and digital technology. Several so-called development and community organizations have since joined the bandwagon with emerging leaders coming out of campuses and local communities—all believing in a communist revolution as a means of pursuing change and economic equality, based on the dogma of an all-knowing, all-wise regime. This has been a protracted and continuous effort of promoting their objectives through mass mobilization, military engagement, subversive political action, and international solidarity work (ISW) with several other organizations. President Duterte issued Executive Order No. 70 in December 2018 establishing a whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict through the creation of a national task force (NTF) that will take the lead in institutionalizing

Whole of nation

Cris Diaz

the “unseen hands” behind the SEERS company could be true. Anyway, the CYNOSURE sympathized with the SEERS incorporators . The company must have been operating smoothly since it was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commissions (SEC) in 2014. By the way, Moreno was elected in 2013 as City Mayor. It follows the incorporation of the SEERS took place in a year’s time after Moreno was elected into office. Considering the number of years since its operation, the SEERS and its incorporators could be certified millionaires by now. The SEERS are simply lucky. After all, what are we in power for? -0- Email reaction/comment: crisguardian@yahoo.com

this week, CTG strategies were exposed by the NTF and presented to the EU’s Counter Terrorism Coordinator, Gilles De Kerchove, who committed to look into the matter very seriously. “We have discussed our respective policy and how we can try to develop a more intense cooperation. I promise to look into this more seriously and talk with our colleagues in the European Commission,” said De Kerchove in an interview. In 2002, the United States and the EU had declared the CPP-NPA as a foreign terrorist organization. According to the Country Reports on Terrorism published by the U.S. Department of State in 2017, the CPP-NPA “primarily targets Philippine security forces, government officials, local infrastructure, and businesses that refuse to pay extortion, or revolutionary taxes.” The report also noted that the CPP-NPA has a history of attacking U.S. interests in the Philippines and “has continued to carry out killings, raids, kidnappings, acts of extortion, and other forms of violence primarily directed against Philippine security forces.” In 2017, President Duterte signed an executive proclamation also declaring the CPP-NPA as a terror organization using Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 as basis. On the other hand, the European Commission had assured the NTF of a specific plan of action in response to the submitted reports on possible terrorism See NATION, page 5

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Military... from page 1

individuals in the city and the members of the Armed Forces. “However, these cowardly practices have been the old dirty tactics of local communist groups to create animosity in our peaceful society and later on blame the government, particularly the Armed Forces,” Go pointed out. He then recalled what he said as some noteworthy incidents like the Plaza Miranda Bombing, OPLAN Ahos, killing of tribal leaders and other atrocities committed by the CPP and its armed wing the New People’s Army (NPA) that were all attributed to the government but were later on revealed as propaganda and undertakings of CPP-NPA as disclosed by surrenders. “We call upon the concern individuals to refrain from spreading unverified documents/reports. Most importantly, we together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), whole heartedly offer security and other

assistance to the innocent victims of this cheap propaganda,” assured Gacal. ‘The hit list’ Among the names listed in the flyers were Iglesia Filipino Independiente Bp. Felixberto Calang, Fr. Rolando Abejo of Movement Against Tyranny-Northern Mindanao, Karapatan Northern Mindanao spokesperson Fr. Khen Apus, human rights lawyers Beverly Musni, Czarina Musni, and Beverly Ann Musni, and journalist Cong Corrales and his family. “Such notorious lists have further endangered the already perilous situation of human rights defenders. We have repeatedly raised how these arbitrary and baseless accusations incite threats to the lives and security of named individuals, the worst of which is that they become victims of extrajudicial killings. We call on the Commission on Human Rights and the local governments to protect the rights defenders and make accountable those who continue to put their lives at risk,” said Karapatan

Monday, February 25, 2019 Secretary General Cristina Palabay. Karapatan, Sandugo and Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas joined relatives of victims of human rights violations and other Mindanaobased rights activists in a National Solidarity Mission from February 21-22, 2019, to look into the situation of recently arrested activists such as Kalumbay leader Datu Jomorito Guaynon, KMP leader Ireneo Udarbe and the four members of the Misamis Oriental Farmers Association and that of evacuees from Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental. The said mission also engaged the Commission on Human Rights, Region 10 (CHR-10) and other government agencies to call for the release of the detained activists. “Activists and everyone are being wrongly tagged as terrorists. The anti-terror law is being arbitrarily used against activists like Guaynon and Udarbe. This situation is made worse by the continuing implementation of martial law in Mindanao,” Palabay said.

Teaching fun in math

By MARY ROSE E. BARRIENTOS SST I Ozamiz City National High School Ozamiz City

MATHEMATICIANS aren’t born. They’re made. For me, this is what teaching is all about – helping students discover part of themselves they never realized they had. To me, inspired teaching means I can’t just be my students’ teacher. I need to be their supporter and a champion of their growth. That’s why I work so hard to help them see the creativity,

beauty and fun in math. For example, if we’re studying fractions, I encourage them to think about the measurements of specific ingredients for their favorite recipes. If we’re examining slopes in algebra, I ask them to make a connection between what they see on their computer screen and famous roads across the country. And if we’re discussing transformations in geometry,

I urge them to consider the movements of their favorite football players across the field. These are all examples of ways I help all students get a practical grasp of what math truly is. Math is about recognizing patterns in the world around us. It’s about cultivating curiousity. These are the things we need to share with our students. Like so many other things in life, math is something that takes practice.

Senior high expo

By GAY B. OUANO SST I Ozamiz City National High School Ozamiz City

I am happy that our city schools division has institutionalized the senior high expo to give chance to each public senior high school to showcase what they have learned during their graduating year before they will walk the aisle this March. In this senior high expo, there will be a showcase of the initial outputs and gains of the senior high school students, generate income and

profit from the products and services, build confidence among senior high school students in the demonstration of skills and abilities, strengthen awareness of the senior high school program, increase stakeholders’ support for the senior high school program and give job opportunity to members of the graduating class. When I browsed upon the exhibits, the 12th graders were really innovative. Some

were selling dreamcatchers. Some were selling red velvet cakes! Some were selling skewered barbecued pork. Some were selling mango float. Some even offered pedicure services. I’m really happy that whatever TLE education our junior high students have achieved they surely used it during their senior high years. Remember, graduating from senior high is not just a stepping stone to college. It is already a stepping stone towards a stable income.

OPM-centric modules

By CHONA B. ENCALLADO SST 1 Ozamiz City National High School

NOTHING compares to OPM because it’s our own. This week, one public school teacher in the Philippines took his passion for the local music genre one step further by creating an OPM-centric lesson plan. If the class cannot p erform technolog ybased tasks (i.e. blogs and digital merch design), the students can present their outputs free-hand

or manually (e.g. handdrawn illustrations, written essays and portfolios, most preferably in Filipino even though we still use English as the medium of instruction in MAPEH. That’s because we must love our language equally as we love our music.) One example of such an exercise is OPM as an Expression of the Filipino Culture. You can tell the students to provide task

cards, digital coies of OPM songs, digital lyric sheets of OPM songs, projector and tablets. The class can be divided into groups. The groups are given task cards so they can each hold a group discussion on OPM as an Expression of the Filipino Culture. The groups may choose songs that highlight Pinoy cultural icons – songs that mention or imply Philippine icons like places, people, things, customs, etc. This is just one example.

“We affirm the urgent need for the lifting of martial law in Mindanao, as we lament that the Supreme Court has recently ruled again for its extension. We assert that martial law has worsened the already difficult situation of the Mindanaoans. Nevertheless, the people of Mindanao will continue to persist and resist,” she concluded. Hit list condemned Media organizations on Friday (February 22) have condemned the red-tagging of an editor of a local daily as they call on authorities to investigate this latest move to discredit private individuals, even the members of the press. Accused as being a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) was Leonardo Vicente “Cong” Corrales, the associate editor of the Mindanao Gold Star Daily, a local newspaper. In the one-page document, the Corraleses and more than a dozen personalities and four militant groups were accused as being members of the CPP. “They strive to replace democracy with socialism/ communism, saying that our present government form of government is semi-colonial and semifeudal,” the document said. The document, coming from an unknown group, said those in the list have been recruiting people to their cause. In a statement, the Na-

tional Union of Journalist of the Philippines (NUJP) national directorate said the inclusion of Corrales in the list is a “cowardly” act. “There is nothing more cowardly and deplorable than to vilify persons and put them in mortal peril behind the cloak of anonymity,” the NUJP said, adding that “red tagging is not mere intimidation. All too often it can be a virtual death sentence.” In a separate statement, the board of directors of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club (COPC) has debunked the accusation that Corrales is affiliated with the CPP. Corrales said, in a statement, said he and his family “are not, have never been and never will be members of the CPP.” He said his wife is a marketing executive of the local paper he is working for, while his son is a government employee. “Our credentials are readily available. We denounce this list as it does not only intimidate me in my work as a journalist, but has endangered my family,” Corrales said.

Nation... from page 4

financing of Belgium and other EU members states in the Philippines. “We will have an independent financial audit on this. You can be reassured that we will monitor the country’s expenditures and donors who may have given

5

to the organizations for the same activity. We will share with you the outcome of the external audit,” said Gunnar Weigand, Managing Director of European External Action Service and European Commission South East Division of Development and Cooperation. The NTF also met with the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs who confirmed that their government has been supporting community work in the Philippines and had allocated 15 million euros for a period of 5 years (2017 to 2021), released at 3 million euros per year to several civil society organizations. The Belgian officials identified the organizations they support, which are currently operating in rural communities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Coincidentally, the identified groups appeared in the list of front organizations of the CPP-NPA-NDF as disclosed by officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “We received information from the Belgian government that they are actually providing funds to these organizations in the Philippines through Belgian NGOs. They are giving 3 million euros every year for five years, totaling fifteen million euros. That’s close to 1 billion pesos,” said Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., AFP Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations. “But we already have an idea where these funds are See NATION, page 5

RTWPB-X Joins the Simultaneous Nationwide Earthquake Drill Exercise As part of the disaster preparedness program to manage the hazards of earthquake, RTWPB-X joins the simultaneous nationwide earthquake drill on January 21, 2019 spearheaded by DOLE-X Regional Office in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense. The drill exercise seeks to manage proper procedures and develop employees’ awareness on the safety measures and procedures before and after an earthquake. Each office has a designated marshal who will guide the employees during earthquake evacuation. The drill started with the alarm drill bell where employees of the different departments and building occupants followed the DROP, COVER, and HOLD procedures. DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and also allows you to stay low and crawl to shelter if nearby. COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand or anything that could protect your head. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter and stay on your knees; bend over to protect vital organs. HOLD ON until shaking stops then slowly walk and look for a safe place where there’s no power lines, bridges, buildings, and overpasses, tall building or trees. The drill was also participated by the DOLE-X Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental Field offices, NCMB-X, BIR-X, OWWA-X, TESDA-X, POEA-X, ECC and OSHC regional extension units, and other building occupants such as Regent Furnishing and De la Serna Law Office.

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MOTORING

Monday, February 25, 2019

GILBERT Y. CHAO - Motoring Editor

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All-new Jimny to be Launched in March AFTER offering an exciting preview of the much-awaited 4th generation Jimny at the Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) last October, Suzuki Philippines (SPH) finally revealed that they will officially launch the latest version of the popular mini-SUV in the country next month. The Jimny has been loved by customers around the world since the birth of its first model in 1970. The new Jimny carries on the heritage of a small, lightweight authentic off-roader and is a masterpiece of Suzuki 4WD technology. 1st generation (1970) The first-generation Jimny made its debut as the one-and-only compact 4WD in the minicar segment. With its small but powerful performance, it earned high acclaim not only from

professional users but from regular users as well. 2nd generation (1981) With its solid-square shape and roomy interior, the second-generation was well received by the global market and made it an unprecedented hit. It was popular with both genders and its sharp, stylish design suited both urban and off-road settings. 3rd generation (1998) The third-generation introduced a higher level of comfort with its smooth aerodynamic body, longer wheelbase and refined rigid suspension. Offering greater stability and manoeuvrability on and off-road, it stayed popular worldwide for 20 years. There are hints that SPH will be offering a manual transmission variant with a price tag under Php 1 million. Well, let’s keep our fingers crossed.

1st Generation

2nd Generation

3rd Generation

interior captured the hearts of many Filipino fans. The crowd-favorite hatchback Celerio ranked second, accounting for 14 percent of sales. This compact car boasts a highly rigid and lowweight body for easier maneuverability and

fuel efficiency and affordability. In addition to its outstanding sales performance for 2018, SPH marks another year of successive awards and accolades. The Vitara, Jimny and Dzire bagged awards from well-known award-giving bodies. The refreshed and innovative Vitara, introduced in late 2017, continues to hug the spotlight. After winning the CAGI Car of the Year Award under the Subcompact Crossover Category in 2017, Vitara made it to last year’s Car of the Year Awards by Top Gear Philippines. It ranked fifth on the editor’s top 5 industry picks and bagged the Reader’s Choice Value Pick Award, which was based on readers’ and online followers’ votes. The Jimny was named

Ertiga, Celerio and Vitara Lead SPH Sales in 2018

SUZUKI Philippines (SPH) will continue to bring chart-topping quality vehicles designed to match the needs and characters of Filipinos and suited to the driving conditions in the country. The Ertiga, Celerio and Vitara remain the bestselling Suzuki models,

collectively accounting for 56 percent of total sales in 2018. The all-time popular family multipurpose vehicle (MPV) Ertiga led last year’s lineup with 30 percent share of sales. Its 7-seater capacity, fuel efficiency, and compact dimensions with spacious

worry-free driving. Coming close at third place is the subcompact crossover Vitara with 12 percent share of sales. This modern SUV has grabbed the attention of the automotive industry since its introduction in 2017 for to its high personalization features,

Best Value for Money under the subcompact SUV Category during the 2018 STV Media’s Choice Award. Aside from its iconic look, this off-roader SUV features a sturdy yet compact body. The recently launched Suzuki Dzire also stood out in its category, successfully bringing home the Best Mini Compact award from the 14th Annual C! Awards. Its compact dimensions and innovative technology make this sedan the smart choice for Filipino drivers. SPH sales for 2018 remained on the uptrend despite the slowdown faced by the automotive industry. The steady sales growth is attributed to the warm acceptance of the product and the brand along with successful dealership See ERTIGA, page 9

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Monday, February 25, 2019

Davao

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OWWA XI handles 1,419 welfare cases for CY 2018

TO address the welfare needs of OFWs and their families, the O verseas Workers Welfare Administration – Regional Welfare Office XI (OWWA-RWO XI) continues to provide a responsive and quality service to all its clients. In line with the implementation of the Workers Welfare Assistance Program, the RWO XI handled a total of 1,419 welfare cases for the year 2018. Of this number, 42 cases were filed by the NOK (nextof-kin) for OFWs with physical illness, 7 cases with mental illness, 120 cases of OFWs who were maltreated/mistreated, 36 were physically and verbally abused, 50 cases with alleged rape/sexual ha-

‘Araw ng Dabaw’ LGBT volleyball tilt kicks off March 3 DAVAO CITY -- Ten teams will see action in the “Araw ng Dabaw” Rainbow Volleyball League, which will kick off on March 3 at the Davao City National High School covered court. “This is a sports tournament for the members of our LGBT community,” said Mohmad Ali Bernan Jr., organizer of the sports event in celebration of the 82nd founding of Davao City. The games will be played on March 9, 10 and 23. The finals will be held on March 24. “This is in commemoration of their experience of discovery, self-acceptance, openness, and honesty about their sexual preference and personal identity as active and productive members of our communities,” Bernan said. The teams will be divided into two divisions with the top two teams to advance to the semi-finals. The A1 to play B2 while A2 to collide with B1. The winners will advance to the finals. Cash prizes will be at stake for the winners. (PNA)

rassment, 136 OFWs with unpaid/delayed salaries, 27 dependents who were asking for the whereabouts of their families abroad, 63 requested for assistance due to non-communication with the OFWs, 37 asked for the status or condition of the OFW, 71 complaints of OFWs

who were overworked, 15 sought for medical assistance, 37 families requested assistance for OFWs who were imprisoned, 91 OFWs with personal/family problem, and 23 clients were catered with request for assistance for OFWs who want to retrieve their personal belongings, missing

at sea, request to transfer employer and request for OFW membership certification. Meanwhile, the region has recorded a total of 557 requests for repatriation of OFWs with different cases. Among them include; physically and mentally challenged OFWs, human

remains and other OFWs who are in distressed. The above-mentioned requests for assistance were well-taken by this office and were properly endorsed to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) to look into the cases. OWWA XI Regional Director Petrona Bergado

Cancer law to bring down ‘treatment abandonment’

Collaboration key to M’nao’s progress: MinDA exec DAVAO CITY -- The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) remains committed to working with its partners to further push the transformation and development of Mindanao. Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro, MinDa deputy executive director, said Wednesday that concerted effort has been key to Mindanao’s progress and transformation in the last 30 years since the creation of its forerunner--the Mindanao Economic Development Council, which was formed in 1992 via executive order. Although MinDA has recorded gains over the years, Montenegro said “there is still so much work to do for Mindanao to catch up with

encouraged those OFW dependents and families having welfare concerns or need immediate assistance to contact or visit the regional welfare office located at Doors 31 E-G, G.B. Cam Building, Monteverde St., Davao City or call hotline numbers 09177011135/0917-7011126.

national development and poverty reduction targets.” Montenegro said the same formula of cooperation will take Mindanao to “accelerated growth, inclusive and sustainable development— and the realization of the President’s dream of fulfilling the Mindanao’s promise.” During the 9th anniversary celebration of MinDA on Tuesday, President Rodrigo Duterte urged the agency to pursue more progressive and inclusive strategies for growth in the region. Duterte highlighted MinDA’s role in the implementation of viable socio-economic programs in Mindanao, especially as the island enters a new period of peace and development with the rati-

fication of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). The President noted that MinDA is the primary coordinating agency in the affairs of the Brunei DarussalamIndonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), which also celebrated its 25th year. “By facilitating the active involvement and participation of all relevant sectors in your initiatives, you have enabled the institution of effective mechanisms for socio-civic endeavors, launched political education campaigns, and the establishment of agro-economic zones across the nation,” Duterte said. Duterte underscored the power of collaborative efforts

in realizing peace and sustainable growth across Mindanao, even as he counted on MinDA’s “commitment to contribute further” in his administration’s goal on improving the people’s lives through peace and development. Duterte expects that MinDA will continue to lead the creation of more viable opportunities in trade and investment, transportation, agri-business, tourism, energy, and environmental protection and management, among others, not only in the region but in the entire BIMP-EAGA corridor. Duterte vowed that his administration “will remain resolute in building the capacity of our local

government units to deliver excellent public service and promote good governance, especially in Mindanao. MinDA Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto said that under the current administration, the agency is able to further strengthen its integrated approach in the formulation and implementation of various Mindanaowide inter-regional development plans, programs and projects. Alonto highlighted one of MinDA’s flagship program – the Mindanao Development Corridors, a spatial development strategy aimed at increasing the competitiveness of Mindanao industries by providing common service facilities. (PNA)

DAVAO CITY -- The leading foundation helping children afflicted with cancer sees brighter hope for them through sustained medication and reduction of ‘treatment abandonment’ to zero, following the signing of Republic Act 11215 or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act. Dr. Mae Dolendo, pediatric oncologist at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) and president of the House of Hope, said the law would address treatment abandonment that results in waste of resources, both for the patient and the government. Dolendo recalled that in 2004 when the foundation started helping children with cancer, the treatment abandonment was high at 90 percent because there was no sustainable support system. “Drop out is beyond our control,” she said, adding that among the reasons for stopping treatment is the lack of financial capability. Most patients from the provinces, she said, would often stop treatment because they simply cannot afford travel expenses and other costs. Over the years, however, the treatment abandonment rate is down to 20 percent - particularly for pediatric leukemia cases, Dolendo noted. “We have done a lot of progress. But we want to bring that down further,” Dolendo said during Friday’s Kapihan sa PIA. With the signing of the law, Dolendo said patients can get free medicines and other services. Dolendo said getting cancer treatment entails huge financial support, especially for high-risk patients. Dolendo said the See BRING, page 9

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foundation will still help in filling the gap in addressing other needs of the patients, such as providing housing while patients are under medication and monitoring, aside from food subsidies. She said cancer treatment would still need big financial aid, noting that the current Z Benefit Package of Philhealth would not be enough for the full treatment. Under the law, the Cancer Assistance Fund will support the cancer medicine and assistance treatment program. Model City Dolendo said Davao City could be the model for the implementation of the Cancer Law. She lauded President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been a top donor of the House of Hope Foundation and the SPMC’s Children with Cancer Institute, for the signing of the law. The President even recently donated the house he bought several years ago as an extension of a transient center of the House of Hope. Under the law, children and adults with cancer could expect extensive cancer care services. Medicines are free for early stages of cancer, colorectal cancer, breast, and acute lymphocytic leukemia in children. The law institutionalizes a “national integrated” program to control cancer. The government, through the Department of Health and the local government units, will provide early and sufficient access to cancer medicines to “ensure the highest possible chance of survival among people with cancer” and strengthen the capabilities of public health care systems and facilities in dealing with cancer. The DOH is also mandated under the new law to provide subsidies and scholarships for the training of oncology professionals. Dolendo said the law provides a clear direction and framework for all activities related to cancer care and advocacy. (PNA)

sa gobyerno ug natagaan mi ug livelihood assistance para makasugod mis among negosyo na bigasan para makatabang mis among bana sa pang-adlaw adlaw na gastohon sa balay.” (We are having a hard time budgeting our salaries, thus we always look for a sideline business. Now, we are much grateful that our prayers have been finally heard and this agency of the government has come to provide us with the livelihood assistance so we can start our rice business for us to be able to help our husbands on our daily expenses at home). Detalla said that they will make sure to do their best to sustain the project and will certainly promote the programs of DOLE so more people in their community will benefit and utilize the government initiatives. Rodrigo, on the other hand, encouraged the beneficiaries to perform their duties and responsibilities with respect to the approved proposals because not all are lucky to be recipients of the government’s assistance. He reminded the beneficiaries that project liquidation will be done 60 days from the date of the turn-over ceremony accompanied with regular project monitoring by the PFO staff to ensure its sustainability. Municipal Vice Mayor Glory Fe D. Roa thanked DOLE-X for the assistance. She said the rice trading project will not only meet the demands of the local traders but will also cater the demands of the big stores in the whole province. (Lorraine M. Roa/DOLE-X Misamis Occidental PFO)

Monday, February 25, 2019 start anew by providing them with the financial assistance and other necessary assistance along the way,” he said. Director Agabe further assured that, through the delivery of social services by various government agencies, the surrenderees together with their family, will benefit from it. BGen Franco Nemesio M. Gacal, commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division representing the Task Force Balik Loob, Provincial Legal Officer of Misamis Oriental Lawyer Neil Pacana, LtCol Richard B. Rabaca, commanding officer 65th Infantry Battalion, and Col Edgardo Y. De Leon, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade and E-CLIP co-chairman witnessed the awarding ceremony. Col. De Leon appealed to the former rebels and the media to further disseminate the program to reach the active NPA members in the region for them to avail the program. In line with these efforts, halfway houses are being established in Region 10, which will serve as venue and facility for the former rebels in conducting rehabilitation and healing sessions, and education and skills training activities. Surrenderees are currently undergoing the E-CLIP process for their benefits. (DILG 10)

Confab... from page 2

In a seminar conducted in Sinacaban town, at least 73 librarians, teacher-librarians, library in-charge and information manager participated in the LHP for them to be aware on how to from page 2 deal with cordial human rethrough E-CLIP. lationship in the workplace, “Through this program, and know their rights and our President gave our rebels privileges as an employee a chance to surrender and are enforced respecting the

Assistance...

exercise of rights of their co-workers. The participants are members of the Misamis Occidental Information Managers and Librarian Association Incorporated (MOIMLAI). DOLE Misamis Occidental Provincial Field Office Chief Leonardo G. Rodrigo explained that the half-day seminar served as an avenue for the employees to expand their knowledge on labor relations and other concepts such as, but not limited to security of tenure, alternative dispute resolution strategies; human relation concepts including employee motivation, meaningful communication, positive values; and productivity techniques through 5S. Rodrigo highlighted the importance of human relations to be at the center of all human resource development endeavors to promote harmonious labor and management relations aimed to increase workers’ productivity and competitiveness. He added that kindness and compassion with sensitivity to the needs of the others are highly necessary for workplace harmony. LHP will keep employees updated of the current developments in labor laws; guarantee professional growth through advancement of basic knowledge,

skills and attitude in line with the changes in the business system and help improve continuous productivity in the performance of their jobs, he said. Moreover, information about the trends of the Labor Market was tackled focusing on in demand and hard-to-fill occupations for increased employment opportunities. “Ultimately, the applicability and flexibility in the implementation of DOLE Programs had substantially changed the way labor disputes are being handled,” Rodrigo said. (Lorraine M. Roa/DOLE-X Mis.Occ. PFO)

Ertiga... from page 6

network expansion. “Suzuki Philippines has been performing really well in the past months despite the challenges faced by the industry, thanks to the hard work of the whole team and the support we’ve been receiving from our customers and partners. Our newly introduced products—the new Dzire and new Swift—are very wellreceived by the market. Our efforts to reach and boost our presence in other economic zones all over the country are also successful, with a total of nine dealerships inaugurated last year, of which seven are

MDN: Feb. 11, 18 & 25, 2019

3S dealerships offering sales, service, and spare parts to Filipino customers. All these are definitely part of our continued commitment to share the Suzuki Way of Life! with more Filipinos, and we look forward to the unceasing support of everyone,” shared SPH Director and General Manager Keiichi Suzuki. Fueled by the significant milestones achieved during the past year, SPH is even more passionate and dedicated to boost its foothold in the local automotive industry. Filipinos can look forward to more aggressive and strategic marketing efforts, new product launches, dealership openings and top-quality services from SPH this year. The relentless excitement among local car enthusiasts and fans of the iconic 4x4 Jimny 2019 will not be in vain as the most-anticipated car of 2018 is set to penetrate the local market this year. “SPH has always been creating and looking forward to more opportunities every year. We have many plans for 2019 not just to further boost the brand but to surpass our achievements last year if possible. We have prepared more aggressive marketing strategies and expansion initiatives to drive our goal of bringing the Suzuki Way of Life! to more Filipinos across the country,” said Suzuki.

R. A 10172 & R.A. 9048 Form No 10.1 (LCRO)

NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY given that the intestate estate of the late JUANITO TAWOY ROLDAN and MATILDE T. ROLDAN consisting a parcel of land known as Lot No. 2581, Pls-43, situated at Brgy. Bahbah, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur with an area of THIRTY SIX THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED FIFTY THREE (36,553) square meters more or less coverd by TCT No. T-34702 in the Registry of Deeds for the province of Cotabato, Philippines is the subject of Extra Judicial Settlement Among Heirs with Adjudication under the notarial registry of Atty. Ferdinand H. Ebarle per Doc. No. 234, Page No. 47,m Book No. 509, Series of 2018.

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Republic of the Philippines Local Civil Registry Office Province; Lanao Del Norte City /Municipality: Iligan City NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 7 of R.A. 10172 ,and SECTION 5 of R.A. 9048 a notice is hereby served to the public that ASLEAH Y. MINANDANG has filed with this Office a petition for Correction of Clerical particularly DATE OF BIRTH from “31 OCTOBER 1988” to “23 DECEMBER 1988” and change of First Name from “ALMYRA” to “ASLEAH” in the Certificate live ALMYRA MACARAYA YAHYA who was born on 23 December 1988 at Iligan City, Lanao del Norte and whose parents are Mosmerah S. Macaraya and Saidamen D.Yayha. Any person adversely affected by the said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than March 2019.

MDN: Feb. 25 & Mar 4, 2019

(SGD.) MARIA PURA C. MASCARINAS City Civil Registrar

Livelihood... from page 2

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NFA not against rice tariffication

NATIONAL Food Authority (NFA) OIC administrator Tomas Escarez today clarified that NFA management is not against rice tariffication amid accusations that NFA is opposing the recently-signed law. “We fully support and we abide by the President’s approval of the rice tariffication law. But as long-time workers in government and in fulfilling the mandate of food security for our country, we only wanted to point out the implications

of some provisions in the proposed bill, before it was signed into law,” Escarez explained. Escarez said that prior to the signing of Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Liberalization Law, NFA sent letters to the concerned Senators and Congressmen, the NFA Council and the President to appeal for a veto of certain provisions in Senate Bill 1998, which was unanimously adopted and ratified by the House of Representatives and Senate

By JOANN VILLANUEVA

point increase in contribution from the current 11 percent, scheduled to be implemented this year, will bring in about PHP31 billion in contribution collections. This, in turn, will extend the actuarial life of SSS from 2038 to 2045. Under the Expanded Maternity Leave law, pregnant workers will have 105 days of paid maternity leave, 7 days of which are transferable to fathers. It gives single mothers additional 15 days leave while a 30-day extension can be made but this will be without pay. Also, the expanded leave does not discriminate whether the member has already exceeded four pregnancies. Out of the 11 percent combined contribution of both the members and their employers, only 0.4 percent is allocated for maternity benefit to date. Dooc said this share should have been increased to 0.5 percent when the maternity leave was increased to 60 days from 45 days for normal delivery and to 78 days from 60 days for caesarian delivery.

Expanded Maternity Leave to cost SSS P7.5-B more MANILA -- The Expanded Maternity Leave law, which was signed into law last February 20, is expected to cost the Social Security System (SSS) an additional PHP7.5 billion in benefits. In a briefing Thursday, SSS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Emmanuel Dooc said this amount is on top of the PHP6 billion in maternity benefits disbursed in 2017. Some 289,000 SSS members received maternity benefit in 2017. As of end-September 2018, SSS disbursed about PHP5.2 billion worth of maternity benefits and this was extended to 241,680 members. Dooc said they will look for ways to fund this additional benefit even as the state-run pension fund for private sector workers can now impose a hike in monthly contributions following the signing into law of Republic Act (RA) 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018. RA 11199 strengthens the pension fund’s actuarial life since the mandated additional one percentage

See COST, page 11

as the final version. Among the provisions NFA wanted to clarify were: the repeal of NFA’s regulatory functions over the domestic grains industry and the definition of buffer stock which was limited to addressing the needs for emergencies and calamities. On the removal of NFA’s regulatory functions, the agency pointed out that these were not explicitly transferred to any other government agency. As such, all grains businessmen will

then be free to conduct their business in whatever manner they like, without rules to follow. Escarez said: Since NFA or any other agency will no longer license, monitor or enforce rules and regulations, it will be a chaotic situation for the local grains industry – the same situation that necessitated the creation of the National Grains Authority in 1972 “to put order to a chaotic grains industry.” “Imagine our own traffic-

plagued roads. What will happen if drivers will not be required to get a license to drive, there are no traffic rules to follow, and there is no agency to instill discipline and order in the transport system?” Escarez asks. The same situation could happen to the grains industry, and this is what we are concerned about, he explained. “When there are spikes in rice prices, especially during the lean months, will it not constitute a man-made

emergency that would require government intervention to stabilize the market? Also, NFA’s function under the Food Safety Act of 2013 covers both imported and local rice. If this function is removed, how can government ensure rice safety in the domestic market?” These are some of the issues we want clarified. And since the law is already there, we continue to seek clarifications on these issues in the Implementing Rules and See RICE, page 11

PAL to undergo system upgrade in March By MA. CRISTINA ARAYATA

MANILA -- Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced Friday it will undergo a system upgrade by March, in a bid to achieve its goal of being a five-star carrier. In its official social media account, PAL an-

nounced that it would upgrade its system to Amadeus Altea to provide passengers faster and more convenient transactions. In March 2018, PAL signed a partnership with Altea Suite, a passenger service system that streamlines air travel processes, such as reservation, flight

management, departure control, among others. Having this airline IT system, according to PAL, would enhance the online check-in processes, make booking experience easier, and make other transactions faster and seamless. PAL earlier said it needs the necessary technology

to help the carrier achieve its five-star goal. In 2018, PAL received a four-star rating from Skytrax, an international air transport rating organization. The rating was based on the carrier’s in-flight and on-ground services. (PNA)

DA to hold nationwide consultations on rice tariffication By LILYBETH ISON

MANILA -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) will hold next week nationwide consultations to make stakeholders understand the details of the rice tariffication and liberalization law recently signed by President Rodrigo Duterte. “The face-to-face consultations will include leaders of rice farmers’ groups and other rice industry stakeholders, including feed millers who rely (on) the local supply of rice bran for their feed production. While the rice liberalization and tariffication law has been

signed and could no longer be amended, the law requires consultations with the stakeholders to gather inputs which would contribute to the crafting of an IRR (implementing rules and regulations) needed to implement the law,” DA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said in a press briefing on Thursday. Piñol said the holding of nationwide consultations and information activities was agreed upon during a meeting Thursday of DA regional directors of the rice program committee, the National Food Authority (NFA), Philippine Rice Research Institute (Phil-

Rice), Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), and other agencies involved in the rice program. The first consultation will be on February 26 at the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) compound in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija for the Northern Luzon cluster. It will cover the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Regions 1 (Ilocos), 2 (Cagayan Valley), and 3 (Central Luzon). On Feb. 27, it will be held in Lipa City, Batangas for the Southern Luzon cluster, which See HOLD, page 11

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Rice...

from page 10

Regulations (IRR),” Escarez said. Escarez explained that right now, NFA management is also focusing on how to make the agency’s transition from a food security and stabilization agency to a buffer stocking agency less painful for its affected employees who are bound to lose their jobs. “We are doing everything to get the best deal for our employees who will be affected by this move. With the clipping of NFA’s powers and functions, many of our employees will also have to go. The best that government can offer to reward them for their long, honest and dedicated service is for those who are willing to go to get a reasonable compensation package and for those who want to stay to be assured of their security of tenure as eligible civil service employees,” Escarez said. Meanwhile, until the law’s IRR is finalized, it will be “business as usual” at NFA, Escarez said. NFA will continue to aggressively buy palay from farmers at P20.70/kilo even as farmgate prices are now down at P14P15/kg. “We will continue to distribute rice in the markets at P27/kilo, at 10 percent market participation, to provide the poor, marginalized consumers with affordable, good quality and safe rice. We will also continue to monitor and police our grains businessmen to ensure fair trade among themselves and for all rice consumers,” he said. In his message to employees last February 18, Escarez said: “Whatever role will be given to us, we must accept wholeheartedly, change gears, but still provide the best brand of service that NFA has always been known for.”

Cost... from page 10

He explained that with the deficiency the contribution should be hiked by as much as 0.6 percent. He said that Taguig Congresswoman Pia Cayetano, who is one of the measure’s authors, has given assurance that SSS has the authority under the expanded maternity leave to increase contribution to address the additional cost. (PNA)

Hold... from page 10

includes Regions 4-A (Calabarzon), 4-B (Mimaropa), and the Bicol region. On Feb. 28, the consultation will be in Davao City for all regions in Mindanao, including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The last consultation is slated on March 1 in Iloilo City for the Visayas region. On March 2, Piñol said the DA Policy and Planning Office will work overtime to complete a collated report on the results of the

consultations. “The DA will submit and present this (report) during the NFA Council meeting on March 5. It is expected that NEDA (National Economic and Development Authority), which is the lead agency in the formulation of the IRR, would be present in the meeting,” he said. Meanwhile, Piñol said the DA rice group also came up with strategies on how to possibly provide an “absorber” to the shock that is expected to be felt by local rice farmers with the expected flooding of imported rice. “One, we agreed that greater support should be given to the Filipino rice farmers and this would come in the form of rice seeds,” he said. However, Piñol said when they computed the amount of money allocated for rice seeds, “we discovered that it would not be enough to cover every rice farmer.” To counter the adverse effect of the inflow of cheap imported rice, Piñol said the DA rice group recommended the introduction of rice seeds of high value and good quality varieties, such as RC 160, RC 218, RC 300, and other rice varieties of good quality. “If these are introduced to the market, many Filipino consumers would prefer that. Even the local millers and traders buy these varieties at a higher price than the ordinary rice,” he said. He said the government will review the rice sufficiency target. “We may have to be contented with just 93 percent where we are right now because the inflow of imported rice may affect the prices of rice in the market and further dampen the buying price of palay,” he said. Piñol noted that one feature of the rice liberalization law is the provision that allows the export of local rice without restrictions. “This may sound ridiculous now but Filipino farmers could actually increase the volume of exports of organic rice, heirloom rice, and upland fancy rice, which command a higher price in foreign markets,” he said. Piñol stressed that “rice farming will continue and must be pursued” despite the challenges that the rice industry is facing. “The Philippine population is growing at a rate of 1.7 percent while our riceexporting neighbors also have increasing population. Five to 10 years from now, there will not be enough rice for everybody. If we abandon rice farming now, we will be guilty of abandoning our responsibility to ensure food security for the next generation,” he said. “Admittedly, the challenges are difficult but with God’s grace, we will survive and prevail,” he added. (PNA)

Members... from page 1

the dreams and aspirations of the great men and women who came before you and fought for the recognition of your right to determine your future” and challenged them “never to waver in your commitment to build an institution that is founded on the rule of law, the promotion of good governance, and the defense (of) our most cherished democratic values.” 80 members but not yet 80 Under the peace agreement with the MILF, the 80-member BTA is to be led by the MILF. Duterte named MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim as Interim Chief Minister of the transition body whose full membership has yet to be constituted. Forty-one of the members were nominated by the MILF while 39 were nominated by government but instead of 80 members, only 76 were able to take their oath, Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, told MindaNews. The final list of appointees has yet to be released by Malacanang. Galvez declined to comment on 10 supposed appointees who were dropped from the list shortly before Friday noon but President Duterte told reporters after the oath-taking that he was late for the supposed 5 p.m. event because “may hinabol sila na late. May in-exchange.” Galvez had met with 36 of the supposed final list of government’s 39 nominees on February 20 for introductions and briefing on the role of BTA, at the Manila Prince Hotel where the Bangsamoro delegation was billeted. The meeting lasted four hours and thirty minutes — from 1:45 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. – although Galvez was frank enough, according to those present, to inform them that as of that time, they were on the list. MindaNews sources privy to the selection process said there was intense lobbying from politicians and some Cabinet members to either put the names of their recommendees into the list and in the last two days, to “exchange” some on the list with their protégés. Instant replacements As quickly as some were “dropped” from the list, as quickly, too, did the replacements show up at the Palace. The MILF’s initial list also had changes although only two were dropped from the original list and their alternates chosen way before February 20, the supposed date for oathtaking. The MILF’s final list of appointees includes 18 members of the MILF’s Central Committee, five of seven front commanders including what turned out to be the star of the show – Abdullah Macapaar alias Kumander Bravo – and a relative and daughter of the two front commanders who could not attend due to illness. Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF’s 1st Vice Chair and chair of the now defunct Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body tasked to draft the basic law for the Bangsamoro, arrived at the Rizal Hall on a wheelchair but stood up to take his oath, falling on his back seconds after Duterte shook his hand. Only 40 of 41 nominees

Monday, February 25, 2019 from the MILF were able to take their oath. The 41st nominee was unable to attend as she was recuperating from an ailment. It was the government’s list of 39 that had various changes, from its original listing on January 21. On Friday, only one from the settler communities (also referred to generically as “Christians”) took her oath. The other nominee was dropped from the list. The non-Moro Indigenous Peoples had two representatives who took their oath — the two nominees of the MILF and government in the now-defunct BTC. Another IP representative was already on the list and was supposed to have been the third IP representative and additional woman representative. She had in fact attended the Wednesday meeting-briefing but had to be told the bad news before noon. Officials of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity had spent Friday morning breaking the tragic news and explaining to those dropped from the list. “It was so difficult to do,” one of those who broke the sad news told MindaNews. “We are talking about cultural sensitivity here,” the source said, citing honor and pride of the Moro and Lumads. The nominated individuals were allowed to invite family representatives to be with them during the historic occasion. Now their names were stricken off the list and their seats taken over by the “instant” replacements. Guarantee “I guarantee that you and this administration will use all the resources within its disposal to ensure better governance and inclusive political empowerment in this new Bangsamoro region,” Duterte said in his 12-minute speech, the first half he read, the second half he delivered extemporaneously. Before the oathtaking, Duterte received from Commission on Elections chair Sheriff Abas a framed copy of the certification that RA 11054 or the Organic Law for the BARMM has been ratified by a majority of the votes case in the January 21 and February 6 plebiscite. The BARMM constitutes the five-province, two-city-116town ARMM (Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan) and the additional territory comprising Cotabato City and 63 villages in six North Cotabato towns. “On January 21 and February 6, an overwhelming majority of the registered voters of the proposed Bangsamoro territory went to their respective polling places not only to cast their ballots, but also to write a new chapter in the region’s history,” Dutert said. He said the ratification of the law “will enable us to create an environment that will be conducive to peaceful coexistence between the Muslims, Christians, Lumads, and all tribes of this planet as indigenous peoples and settlers who will consider Mindanao as their home.” He urged the BTA members to “always work for the best interest and welfare” not only of the Bangsamoro but “every

Filipino who live in that region,” and that they would oversee the transition period to the best of their abilities, “especially in the decommissioning of firearms and former combatants.” Duterte said he hopes everyone puts to rest “the bitter memories of the past so that we can build a new region that is bound, not by ethnic or religious affiliation, but by a common aspiration for peaceful coexistence among our fellow Filipinos.” “We share your dreams and aspirations. We share all. But most of all, we would like to see an end of the violence that has rocked Mindanao and have cost so many lives for nothing,” the President said. He assured the BTA members that for the remaining years of his term, he will “always do what the law says and what is yours and … to what extent that we can give you, not only comfort but happiness to the Muslims of Mindanao.” Duterte ends his six-year term on June 30, 2022, the same day the BARMM is formally inaugurated. “We do away with greed. We do away with oppression and especially we try. We can always try. Sometimes, it can be done. Sometimes it cannot be reached. But I pray that we will end the hate that pervaded our lives for so many years,” Duterte added. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)

Months...

from page 1 Candidates for the positions of senator, member of House of Representative, mayor, vice mayor and member of Sangguniang Panlunsod or Bayan (depending on the area) are found on the front portion of the ballot while Partylist groups are placed at the back of the ballot. The poll body will be printing a total of 63,662,481 ballots - 61,843,771 of which are

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for the home voters while 1,818,710 ballots are for for overseas absentee voting (OAV). Aside from the official ballots, a total of 1,142,063 ballots will also be printed for the Final Testing & Sealing (FTS) to test the vote counting machines (VCMs). The first to be printed are ballots for the OAV, followed by Mindanao provinces, Visayas provinces, Luzon and the National Capital Region (NCR). The poll body is looking forward to finishing the printing of all the ballots by April 25. (PNA)

Nation...

from page 5 going. A list was provided by the Belgians and we realize that these groups are allies and front organizations of the CPPNPA-NDF,” Parlade added. With these first steps taken by the government, the country is on the right path of putting an end to this insurgency and, most importantly, making the Filipino public and the international community more aware of what is really going on in our communities. It took us 50 years to make this preliminary move of engaging the whole nation and while the armed forces still consider the CPPNPA-NDF as a potent security threat due to its capacity to operate nationally and the ability to infiltrate government and private institutions, it cannot deny that they are struggling for survival. And Rodrigo Duterte, with his whole-of-nation approach, is determined to subjugate them. (H. Clavite/PIA) DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that the intestate estate of the late FRANCISCO P. CORPUS, died intestate respectively on EROM-MG Hospital, San Jose Street, Butuan City leaving conjugal property, consisting of a parcel of land and a family home erected thereon located at Tandang Sora/03, Butuan City and covered with Transfer Certificate of Title No. RT-2436 of the Register of Deeds of Butuan City, more particularly described as follows; TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. RT-2436; “A parcel of land (Lot 524-E of the subdivision plan (LRC) Psd-54136, being a portion of Butuan Cadastre, LRC (GLRO) Rec.Bo.F.Pat)., situated in the Barrio of San Ignacio, Municipality of Butuan, Province of Agusan, Island of Mindanao; Containing an area of THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY SIX SQUARE METERS (376), MORE OR LESS; are the subject of DEED OF EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE LATE FRANCISCO P. CORPUS; made and entered into by and among; LEANDRA SANTOS CORPUS, widow of the late FRANCISCO P. CORPUS, of legal age, with address at No. 5519-C, P. Binay Street, Pio del Pilar, Makati City; GRACIA CORPUZ MAGTANGOB, married, of legal age, with address at No. 5519-C, P. Binay Street, Pio del Pilar, Makati City; FRANCISCO S. CORPUZ JR., married, of legal age, with address at No. 5519-C P. Binay Street, Pio del Pilar, Makati City; Under Notary Public of Atty. REGIE T. MAG-USARA; as per Doc No. 211; Page No. 44; Book No. 04; Series of 2018.

Notice is hereby given that the intestate estate of the late EUGENIO MACARAYAN CAGAS, died intestate on December 16, 2017 in Davao City, Philippines, that registered owner of certain parcel of land located at Barangay Panacan, Davao City, Philippines, the metes and bound is more particularly described as follows: TARNSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-125920; A parcel of land of the subdivision project Lot 6, Blk 55 Psd-11-019248, being a portion of Lot 3336, Cad 102, Davao Cadastre; situated in the Barrio of Panacan City of Davao, Island of Mindanao; Containing an area of Two Hundred two (202 sq. m.) more or less; are the subject of Deed of Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate executed and entered into by and between; RUFINA BALATERO CAGAS, of legal age, Filipino, widow and a resident of Prk. 1 Panacan Relocation, Davao City, Philippines; ANICITO BALATERO CAGAS, of legal age, Filipino, married to CLARITA DELA PEÑA CAGAS and a resident of Prk. 1 Panacan Relocation, Davao City, Philippines; RITA CAGAS TAO, of legal age, Filipino, married to ROGER FUENTES TAO and a resident of Prk. 3 Panacan relocation, Davao City, Philippines; JEANETHE CAGAS TOLOP, of legal age, Filipino, married to EMMANUEL ARIENDA TOLOP and a resident of Vista Verde Davao City, Philippines; CLARITA CAGAS PALABRICA, of legal age, Filipino, married to BILLY FUENTES PALABRICA and a resident of Blk. 1 Lot 41 Daffodil St., Greenmeadows, Mintal, Davao City, Philippines; and THERESA CAGAS MONTANTE, of legal age, Filipino, married to MICHAEL MADRONA MONTANTE and a resident of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, Philippines; NOW THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the premises and invoking the provisions of Rule 74, Section 1, of the Rules of Court, the parties hereto do hereby do by these presents agree to divide and partition the estate above-described, adjudicating as they do hereby adjudicate; Under Notarial of Atty. ANGEL E. FERNANDEZ; as per Doc No. 44; Page No. 10; Book No. 111; Series of 2018.

MDN: Feb. 25, Mar. 4 & 11, 2019

MDN: Feb. 18, 25 & Mar. 4, 2019

DEED OF EXTRA JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE LATE FRANCISCO P. CORPUS

MINDANAO DAILY We innovate... and we lead! Editor: MARK FRANCISCO

CAGAYAN DE ORO

Monday, February 25, 2019

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Measures to alleviate plight of fire victims sought COUNCILOR Romeo V. Calizo on Monday expressed dismay over the usual assistance given to fire victims in the city. In his special report during the City Council regular session Monday presided over by Vice Mayor Raineir Joaquin V. Uy, the councilor said for 2018 and this year there were five fire incidents that occurred in the city causing destruction to lives and properties. He said the immediate disposition for the affected families is to bring them to evacuation centers. “They go either first to the evacuation centers prepared by the barangays most of which are in the gymnasiums and covered courts or they go to sponsors coordinated by the respective barangays. Ang problema until now mao gihapon ang ilang sitwasyon,” the councilor lamented. He said this has several effects on the barangay and the affected families.

“The covered courts and gymnasiums are no longer available for sports and other related activities of the barangay and the temporary sponsors can no longer provide for the needs of the fire victims. It’s not only the fire incident itself but also the aftermath that has created a complete turnaround in the lives of the victims particularly on their security, health, education livelihood, among others,” he further stressed. “Everything is affected, that’s as if they’re already hopeless. So my prayer is for the committee on social services and on barangay affairs to look into this. There must be a way to do this,” Calizo opined. This matter was referred to the City Council committees on social services and on barangay affairs chaired respectively by Councilors Reuben R. Daba and Yan Lam S. Lim for appropriate action. (SP/JAO)