The Crusader AY Starter 2017

Hope lives on What’s inside: CDO Security Education post-evac Interfaith dialogue Journalists’ perspective

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Cover Story

Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University Editorial Board Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas Editor in Chief Lorenzo A. Botavara Associate Editor Lynette L. Tuvilla Design Editor Harmony Kristel D. Balino Managing Editor Mary Therese P. Mole News Editor Winona Roselle Serra Campus Features Editor Merryane Rose S. Bacud External Features Editor Nikki Gay Louise P. Amores Sports Editor Jinky M. Mejica Photography Editor Rizalyka Joanne M. Waminal Freehand Editor Finance Officers Anna Jamela S. Balindong Auditor Tisha C. Abejo Senior Finance Manager Ana Patrizia Pilar R. Arcayera Junior Finance Manager (Trainee) Managers Gene Gerard G. Verona Human Resource & Office Manager Rigel Kent T. Flores Circulation Manager Khristine Marjorie L. Quiblat Video Productions Director Winona Roselle Serra Online Accounts Manager Andrew Angelo S. Barrientos Junior Computer Systems Manager (Trainee) Staff Writers Maita Angelica S. Arenas (Contributor) Maria Franchesca Louise P. Fajemolin Jett Joseph C. Gumaling (Trainee) Sixto Abeth R. Lalanto II (Contributor) Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos (Trainee) Tatiana L. Maligro Jc Marie E. Salas (Trainee) James Edgar T. Sia (Trainee) Staff Artists Jean E. Abarquez (Trainee) Shaira E. Abshire (Trainee) Ryan Christian R. Atis (Contributor) Maria Monica L. Borja (Trainee) Aleina C. Buenavista (Trainee) Kurt Anthony B. Chan (Trainee) Arnel John A. Dayata (Trainee) Shack Gil A. Estrada (Contributor) Dave Allyster R. Gultiano (Trainee) June Benedict C. Laplana (Trainee) Nicolo Nathan O. Macoy (Trainee) Karla Mae C. Romero (Trainee) Jayson Elvie G. Ty (Trainee) Louise Coleen T. Vitor Moderator Mr. Stephen Roy J. Pedroza For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to: TheCrusader Publication Office, Rm. 302, Student Center Bldg, Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation: 4,300 copies thecrusaderpublication.com

Table of Contents

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Editorial Column Safeguarding our Kagay-anon home Through a Sniper’s Scope Surf, Share, Spread F(EAR)ACT Checkpoint: Into and After the 60 Days of Martial Law in Mindanao Cover Story: A Glance at XU’s Marawi Interventions The Other Side of Mindanao Education Post-Evacuation Hand in hand for “XU Tabang Marawi” Keeping the Faith: Interreligious Dialogue in a Time of Troubles Cora Contrabida: Breaking Bills Kurisword Comics Hohongihong

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ven through the haze brought about by the Marawi siege, hope persists. Life goes on, as the people of Marawi scramble to reclaim some semblance of normalcy during the Siege. Unwavering, the fight to rebuild the once beautiful city rages on, while the civilians fight their own battles outside the warzone. Unbowed, unbent, unbroken: these will define the long story of the hope and resilience of Marawi.C Words by Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas Photo by Jigo L. Racaza

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The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 44 No. 1 August 2017

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EDITORIAL

Digging a bit further

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Illustration by Shack Gil Estrada

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he digital evolution of media podiums has morphed into a movement of unprecedented scope. Citizens’ participation toward newsgathering and reporting to the social world plays multiple roles in exposing accountability or corruption, encouraging liability, and documenting unforeseen events through social media.

The popularity of citizen journalism has spread over the world today. It has become an efficient medium of information to many, as it allows people to engage in different societal issues that spark public debate and develop democratically active citizens. In fact, more and more people have begun to take advantage of becoming content publishers.

In lieu of the recent Marawi siege, civilians have become a firsthand source of information. People from a hundred miles away can get their news from posts of those who have experienced the situation firsthand. Due to the absence of media during the first eruptions of the Marawi Crisis, many netizens have thought that the situation could be an opportunity to promote interaction among people in the media industry and the community. However, information coming from the people in Marawi and even those who weren’t present during the siege have sometimes misled and confused the public. An example would be the alleged beheading of a teacher in Dansalan College. This story was circulated all over the country and gave the public a false perception of what was actually happening in the siege.

The likelihood of biases is one of the downsides to civilian reporting. While professional journalists are trained to look at both sides of the story before making a report, civic journalism lacks this, thus casting doubt on the credibility of the information.

For citizen journalism to have a greater impact on traditional journalism and play an important role in society, it needs to be bound by rules, and subscribed to the Journalist’s code of ethics. Meanwhile, those who engage in it need to understand the guidelines that must be followed before publishing reports on social media.

In a digital world with a whole host of different ways to communicate factual information, it has become difficult to judge the value of amateur news videos shot on a mobile phone and posted on the internet against a considered, observational broadcast on a traditional television channel. However, it’s not often that citizens are the reason of misinformation or defective information. When the media seem to fall short in certain situations, citizen journalism amplifies stories that are otherwise commonly ignored in the field.C

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OPINION

Perpetuating division

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By Mary Therese P. Mole theresemole@thecrusaderpublication.com

he recent Marawi siege set ablaze varied opinions regarding culture, religion, the administration’s response to the issue, along with so much more. There are many facets to be discussed but I’d like to focus on our dear brothers and sisters in Islam, especially those who are evacuees from Marawi, and the discrimination they are vastly receiving.

According to XU-SIRAJ President Bin Khalifa Pansar, discrimination among Muslims is nothing new. However, ever since the battle in Marawi drew attention, the prejudice seemed to worsen. There are instances when some taxis refuse to give rides to hijab-wearing women.

Dorms or apartments decline Muslim spacers or kick them out after finding out about their religion. Moreover, there was a proposal of an ID system that Muslims should follow. If this is about safety, why only require Muslims? I didn’t know people could reach a new level of low with these so-called solutions. It’s like sugarcoating Muslim discrimination with “proper and efficient authorization”. What good would a Muslim-only ID be if a terrorist successfully passed himself off as a non-Muslim? These are just some of the

many manifestations of discrimination that they experienced. The list goes on.

A couple of times I would hear people say, “Nah daghan na kaayo’g Muslim nag evacuate diri sa Cagayan. Dawbi’g mga terorista na sila?”. So quick to judge ethnicity, so little trust in humanity. Don’t get me wrong; Cagayan de Oro will always be a City of Golden Friendship. It’s just that not all people have the same warm, welcoming attitude towards the evacuees. Even if other people insist that this is a religious war, I still firmly believe that terrorism has no religion. Yet here we are— perpetuating division, not any different from extremists. It’s sad how hasty generalization occurs at the same time when unity is most needed.

Aren’t the Maute group the real enemies? Aren’t they the ones we should be fighting against? But then it seems like the dispute has sprouted tirades based on culture.

Taking a line from a classmate in my speech class, I quote, “Islam is perfect, but I am not. So if I do something wrong, blame me [alone] and not my religion.” The same way as some Christians are bad, not all Muslims are terrorists. Our actions and behaviors define us; not religion nor culture.C

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Pulchritunidous

By Jinky M. Mejica jinkymejica@thecrusaderpublication.com 2

ith prejudice, many see the poor as a hindrance to our country’s economic development and growth. The less privileged live with the stigma of being “lazy” or “incompetent” because of the supposedly lack of effort to lift themselves up from poverty. That perception has always puzzled me. Is this mindset right?

I grew up following the famous Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates’s belief: “If you are born poor, it is not your fault. It would be yours if you die as one.” Basically, that is what my primary school teachers tried to impart to us: that “poor” is relative to “not working hard”. Many believe hard work is a sure ticket to success. In reality, some have been given the opportunity and privilege to live a grandiose life while a larger fraction isn’t.

There are many factors to consider when it comes to poverty. As an Economics major, I believe one of these factors is inflation. This affects the basic consumption of every individual, especially the poor, since prices are rising.

Additionally, there is a need to allot more on basic goods such as food, shelter, and clothing.

Another factor to poverty is the salary rate.

No matter how long workers with blue collar jobs extend their shifts, it can’t change the fact that they’re merely earning low-grade salaries. In fact, this is easily overlooked by people belonging to the middle or upper class.

The core of poverty is the structure of our nation's economy and government. The poor acquire minimal benefits from this structure. An example would be a sugarcane farmer. According to research, their average fortnight income ranges from 40 to 50 pesos. How could an income so meager be able to sustain an entire family? Sadly, the only notable effort from the government is settling down with the 4P’s system.

The stigma revolving around the poor and the marginalized should be recognized and stopped.

We are the privileged ones with education and opportunities. We have the power to make a better nation with better people. Instead of putting people down, why not find the means to raise them up?

Be the ripple that contributes to changing these people’s condition instead of being an addition to their dilemma.C Vol. 44 No. 1 August 2017

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with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Of course, it is possible that these people who complain about such things actually do suffer from what they say. However, these terms have normalized their way into our conversational language, and have made it harder to take legitimate sufferers seriously.

Seemingly, these may appear like nothing. In reality, mental disorders could cost people their lives. Underestimating mental health problems and brushing them off as something that is ‘just in your head’ doesn't help decrease the stigma.

Taking into account the words we utter could greatly influence how society perceives these problems. When a person thinks about ending his or her life, we may disregard their thoughts, totally ignore them, or worse, call them ‘over-reacting’.

Ironically, the moment they end up taking their life, we are then quick to flood social media with appreciation posts and sympathy speeches. Isn’t it about time to take them seriously? It could just save a life.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from mental health issues, contact (02) 804-4627, 0917-558-4673, and 2919 for Globe and TM subscribers.C

Bigotry in the midst of crisis?

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By Harmony Kristel D. Balino harmonybalino@thecrusaderpublication.com Crusader

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s the Marawi Crisis continues, a group of people in Central Luzon are receiving Identification Cards (IDs) to identify them as Muslims. (And no, Christians nor anyone belonging to non-Muslim denominations aren’t receiving ID’s as well).

These cards are certified by the police and local government officials of Paniqui, Tarlac where the system has been implemented since armed conflict erupted in Marawi on May 23.

Justifying this goes along the lines of, in thesis objectives form: a.) To help authorities “weed out” undesirable individuals that may have the intention to carry out a terrorist attack in the area; b) Identify our Muslim brothers and sisters in the area (this begs the question as to why there is a need to distinguish people by religion); c.) Prevent terrorist penetration in the area; and d.) Protect the people of Paniqui. One could even claim this serves as protection against mistaken identity.

While the implementation of a Muslim ID connotes a lot of things, it couldn’t be denied that what led to the practice of this system roots back to the belief that all terrorists are Muslims; a

wrong ideology that should have been corrected a long time ago.

It breaks my heart to know that our Muslim brothers and sisters can be arrested for being suspicious. Why is there still a need to establish a demarcation between Muslims and non-Muslims, and keep an eye on individuals belonging to the latter group of people? Though a campaign to widen the scope of the Muslim ID implementation to the entire region of Central Luzon was proposed, the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured that this has been turned down. The ID system has also gained negative attention from personalities and human rights advocates around the globe.

It can’t be denied that these kinds of wrongful ideologies exist despite being widely countered.

What’s important is the collective effort of the public to turn away from this kind of bigotry, reducing it into a newly-unorthodox sentiment, and continuing to show love for each other not because of religion but because we are members of the society with equal rights.C

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Photos by Dave Allyster R. Gultiano

ental health is underrated. While it should be deemed as one of the most important aspects of our being, many consistently take it for granted. At a very young age, we are taught basic first aid for treating physical wounds. You clean the wound under running water, apply ointment, and cover it with Band-Aid. However, we can’t simply treat psychological illness this way.

Knowing how to handle one’s emotions is as important as knowing how to treat physical injury.

After all, both undeniably lead to inefficiency and lack of enthusiasm to move out and about.

Mental health problems may be invisible to the naked eye but are in no way a laughing matter. We inconsiderately use psychological problems figuratively in conversations to replace or exaggerate commonplace adjectives.

Saying “depressed kay ko, bai” to express utter sadness is being insensitive to people diagnosed with depression. Pointing out “Buang kay ka” to someone when they crack silly jokes is an insult to those who actually need to see a psychiatrist. “Maka-OC kaayo,” an expression used to exaggerate perfectionism, doesn't take into account the severity of being diagnosed

OPINION

By Harmony Kristel D. Balino & Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos

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indanao remains under Martial Law because of the ongoing Marawi Crisis. Until now, the Maute group relentlessly retaliates against government forces sent to retake the besieged city. Thus, all means to safeguard city boundaries have been upped; especially with Cagayan de Oro being one of the nearest channels to terrorist spillovers or worse, a potential venue for a similar, highly strategized, and organized attack.

Keeping in mind the present disposition of the security force assembled within the city and its boundaries, there exists a barricade against potential threats to Kagay-anon safety. Still, the reality that a clash is in progress just over 60 miles away begs the question: is CdeO truly safe from terrorist attacks?

Law enforcers on duty Maintaining Kagay-anon safety is a multisectoral effort that involves the local and national government. These include the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD), and even the coast guard.

In light of the Marawi Crisis and the implementation of Martial Law in Mindanao, two major teams have cropped up to ensure safety in the area: Task Force Oro, and the Martial Law Special Action Group (ML-SAG).

Task Force Oro was formed to keep watch within the city. These are law enforcers who are guarding the city by foot. They patrol the city and respond to potential threats. As of press time, there are 135 newly-enlisted officers who have joined the Task Force, strengthening the security posture of the city.

Meanwhile, ML-SAG is a team that’s formed whenever Martial Law is implemented. It serves as the intelligence workforce for the operations.

This security branch intercepts terrorist-linked messages, strategizes the defense of the city, and pinpoints alleged terrorists. Though the dynamics of ML-SAG are highly confidential, this sector 4

has earned timely accomplishments with the arrest of 40 terrorists that got past checkpoints.

Among these captives was Abu Jadid, a bomb expert of the Maute group.

Checkpoints have been strategically assigned to guard the entry points of the city since the start of Martial Law in May 2017. During a checkpoint inspection, all people inside a vehicle are asked to present their IDs, submit their vehicles for inspection, and in some cases, be asked about their planned itinerary. For commuters, getting off the vehicle is necessary to ensure proper identification and to prevent a spillover from occuring, where terrorists disguise themselves as civilian commuters and infiltrate the city.

A case of mistaken identity With 40 terrorists caught within the vicinity of Cagayan de Oro as of press time, the number of spillovers is alarming. According to Capt.

Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson for the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), a considerable faction of terrorist-fugitives has gone through extensive efforts to alter their appearance and change their identities. These include removing all head or facial hair, using disguises, and securing fake identification cards to get through the checkpoint.

In the event of being mistaken as a person of interest, a suspect is only allowed to be detained by the authorities for three days. If the authorities fail to prove the arrestee’s identity within the given time, the law requires immediate release of the suspect. "We are just doing our part to ensure the safety of the general public. Pag nangyari ‘yan (mistaken identity) sa ‘yo, understand. Huwag po tayong sasama ng luob dahil at the end of the day, ikaw mismo at ang family mo nakakabenefit ng security measures,” Capt. Martinez opines.

In this vastly different era of Martial Law, Martinez assures, “We will always observe the provision of human rights, respect the rule of law, at tsaka yung international humanitarian law dahil ito yung aming bibliya on how we execute our mandate.”

The fear of the few The Muslim community of Cagayan de Oro faces a number of possible threats in light of the Crisis.

In reality, the Maute group abhors Muslims who don’t follow their ideology, making the latter a target of their own people, claims Capt. Martinez. At the same time, Muslims in the city are potential suspects in the eyes of the authorities. The security forces involved in the

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flung areas, rarely encounter authorities. A large population of the Moro-Muslims don’t vote or go abroad because they don’t have the necessary documents such as a voter’s ID or a passport. “As a result, we do not consider IDs essential the way other Filipinos do. We knew it was important but we thought it wasn’t necessary until Martial Law dawned upon us,” Batugan adds.

Capt. Martinez admits that it's difficult to identify members of the terror group, but it's highly unlikely that they have non-Muslim members. "Galit na galit sila (Maute group) sa Christian,” he adds.

At the height of the proclamation of Martial Law, officials of Masjid-al Abrar and Masjid-al Masaken— local mosques in Barangay Balulang— imposed a curfew on their respective areas for security purposes. This aims to protect the community who go to these mosques from any

potential danger. Consequently, the curfew was lifted once the Cagayan de Oro Misamis Oriental Muslim Coordinating Council was established.

This council serves as the channel of establishing stable communication with the authorities regarding safety protocols that involve the Muslim populace. According to Professor Gondarangin, the council took initiatives to prevent any miscommunication and misunderstanding with the government— an effort that was duly praised by the military. *** Safeguarding a large city against a terrorist group is more than taxing. Still, the authorities have laid out tight security for CdeO. The security posture of the city is maintained to be in its peak condition while efforts to reinforce its structure are being done. It is important to be informed and familiar with people of interest to avoid any events of proximal encounters. Still, personal safety remains the most crucial constituent of keeping away from danger’s path.C

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Photo by Arnel John A. Dayata

operations seem to follow the assumptions that Muslims harbor fugitive members, aid escaping terrorists, or are themselves terrorists. All these prospects are burdened on a faction of the local Muslim community. Oro Jamah Mosque President Mohammad Gondarangin cites an instance when members of religious missionary movement Jama'at Tabligh were detained in a sea port in Cagayan de Oro in June because they failed to present valid IDs. After a thorough investigation, the detainees were released.

According to Nor-jamal Batugan, former SIRAJ president and former chair of Muslim Youth Council of Cagayan de Oro City, most of the Moro people, especially those from far-

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By Sixto Abeth R. Lalanto II with reports from Jett Joseph Gumaling

ith loud explosions piercing through their ears, and clunky bulletproof vests pressing on their chests, dauntless men and women chronicle Marawi’s ongoing bloodshed by reporting firsthand accounts to the public through social, and mainstream media. While some journalists are bounded by their responsibility to report news, others are driven by their intense commitment to serve.

Safety First For two arduous months, fearless war correspondents have been putting their lives on the line, tagging along with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in order to give the Filipino people the latest news regarding Marawi and the residents’ deplorable conditions.

Maulana Mamutuk, a local Maranao radio broadcaster and journalist for the Ranao Radio Broadcasting and TV System Corp., recounts that due to the adversaries’ hiding spots

dispersed across Marawi, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) cannot ensure a particular infrastructure’s safety. Journalists may encounter stray bullets or stumble upon an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that can detonate with one wrong step.

For journalists who have no prior knowledge of the terrain in Marawi, it could prove to be a challenge. “Actually, ang unang unang ginagawa nila [local and foreign journalists] ay kino-contact kami mga local media men sa Marawi,” he shares.

Journalists who already have connections in Marawi can get in touch with their local friends and receive guidance and knowledge of the city’s situation. “So, yun ang ginagawa nila maliban sa ibinibigay na advisory from the Army,” he adds.

The Army also has the drone technology to identify which areas are safe enough for journalists to cover. “Nakikita nila ang some parts sa war zone, kung saan ang pinaka dangerous ba o saan ang medyo safe na area na doon sila pwede magcover,” says Mamatuk.

In the interest of journalists who follow soldiers in war zones, media personnel are required to get a pass and should strictly observe the safety protocols set by the military. Meanwhile, some journalists who were denied access to tag along with the Army often wander on their own to explore the perilous war zones of Marawi. Hence, increasing their chances of either getting shot or kidnapped by the adversary.

Conflicts with the military While the military wants to ensure everyone’s safety, media men such as Froilan Gallardo, a journalist from mindanews.com covering the Marawi crisis, have some concerns regarding the military’s imposed safety protocols. “We don’t want the military to dictate what is dangerous for us,” states Gallardo. The military’s safety regulations can cause journalists to miss covering the most important events in the war or miss capturing the most dramatic pictures. He also

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discusses that an estimate of 20-30 journalists negotiated with the military in Marawi to solve this issue on July 29, so as to reach a compromise and create a more cohesive working relationship between the media and the government.

Journalistic Advice Mamutuk advises first-time correspondents covering the Marawi Siege to always abide by three simple rules: stick with the military, contact local journalists, and most importantly, know the area. Moreover, staying healthy is necessary to thrive in harsh environments like the Marawi warzone. According to Gallardo, “Sleep is number one. Kay kung sleep-deprived ka, the more masipyat ka.” There is no room for mistakes in a place like Marawi, especially with its current state where gunfire and explosions are something you become attuned to, and a small misstep could cost you your life. *** The news we read from the papers or watch on television comes at a price. Tagging along with soldiers during battle, and putting themselves in harm’s way to get the best scoop and firsthand knowledge of the situation are common practices for war correspondents. A journalist’s job is to document the ongoing war and share their firsthand accounts of it to the public. This is a profession of the daring and the passionate.

These are people committed to the quest of bringing to the world information that is just, factual and relevant. To accomplish this, especially in regards to the Marawi Crisis, facing the high certainty of not coming back alive is something they will have to deal with, just to bring the truth out to the people.C

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eeks after armed conflict broke out in Marawi, social media was abuzz with viral photos ranging from memorandums from the Philippine National Police (PNP) to a terrorist look-alike buying batteries at a local department store. Adding to the traffic in other communication outlets was a horde of chain messages warning the public of bomb threats in crowded areas of the city. These rumors would either be verified or debunked in a matter of days, and the city could breathe easy again until another threat would come.

Shooting down misinformation While these terrorists have learned to take advantage of online hysteria among panicked and confused citizens, our authorities appear to be also surfing closely behind their clever antics as well. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is constantly monitoring a number of terrorist websites, including that of ISIS. According to Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) Commander Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., the Cyber Security Unit of the AFP, along with its other IT-involved units and the Cyber Crime Group of the PNP, are tasked to monitor online traffic for activities that might contain vital and critical information.

With the overwhelming amount of information provided by the panic-stricken and ‘concerned’ masses, COCPO’s Hortillosa explains that all received data are in fact considered positive until proven otherwise. If, for example, the PNP receives reports of a terrorist look-alike in a post that goes viral on Facebook, the post goes through a verification process involving intelligence units conducting ocular surveys in the reported area and crowdsourcing for any related leads. They would also present stock photos of the suspected terrorist and check CCTV footage of the area if available. Finally, an official statement for the release of information will be sent out after a final order from the regional headquarters. These releases are often made through their websites, social media pages, and local media outlets (e.g. newspapers, radio stations, and broadcast networks).

These ‘concerned’ citizens not only broadcast the often false set of information but they also expose confidential military movements that should only be known to the authorities. With too much unverified material circulating online, these extremists are often a step ahead of the military forces, and the authorities are left with unstable leads.

The more ideal thing to do than post vague photos on social media is to immediately report any suspicious elements directly to the PNP through their many outlets— their official website, social media pages, and local hotlines— to prevent unease among the public. Additionally, this refrains terrorists from knowing that they have been spotted. In fact, it was through a post on Facebook that Maute bomb maker Mohammad Noaim Maute, alias Abu Jadid, was captured in Barangay Macasandig. The authorities would have had less trouble, however, if his alleged presence was not broadcast on a public platform such as Facebook. *** Whether done by civilians out of clear concern or plain panic, terrorists know this human tendency and have learned to use it to their advantage. Let us remain vigilant, alert, and, at the same time, responsible for the information we give out. Instead of chiming into the already noisy buzz of information online, we can approach the police directly; this allows them to carry out their operations with stealth and efficiency.C

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Design by Aleina C. Buenavista

Furthering the wrong cause It is safe to assume that the intentions of those who share these kinds of content do so for the safety of their loved ones. Such response is natural and understandable from concerned citizens in light of horrific events, but it also threatens to amplify the chaos that terrorists intend to create. “Kaning mga tao sa atong sitwasyon karon gusto lang gyud makatabang sa pag-disseminate og information,” says Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) Spokesman Chief Inspector Mardy Hortillosa II. He adds, however, that this level of vigilance and sense of initiative in spreading information can cause more harm than good as it incites unwarranted fear.

Social networks have given terrorists the attention they seek. With unprecedented breadth, these violent extremists utilize the internet in various ways: to spread propaganda, and to connect, inspire, and recruit new members.

They manipulate civilians into spreading false information to confuse authorities, and to breed panic among civilians. The Maute Group’s act of laying siege to Marawi is an appeal for recognition—and they achieve exactly that with the publicity that they get. The Maute is waving its arms in the direction of Syria in hopes of getting the support of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria

(ISIS), the organization from which the group draws inspiration.

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n the distance, smoke rises from a school set on fire. Gunshots and screams fill the air as intimidating figures clad in black storm the normally quiet streets. A closer look reveals an eerily familiar insignia that incites both panic and fear. Hours later, those very feelings are confirmed as flags of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) are waved across the city. A lot is to be remembered on the 23rd of May when violent extremists laid siege to Marawi. Attacks that took place in August resulted in the declaration of a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence. But on May 23, it was apparent to the whole country how big a threat the Maute group posed, prompting the President to declare Martial Law in the whole of Mindanao that very evening.

A threat to peace While victims were running away from the burning Marawi, a spillover occurred wherein members of the terrorist group made their way out of the city and into neighboring cities such as Iligan and Cagayan de Oro by blending in with the evacuees. According to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) Commander Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., a total of 40 terrorists were caught and detained in Camp Evangelista, the AFP 4ID base in Cagayan de Oro City. However, a thorough evaluation revealed that the said detention center was too small to securely house the detainees, and they ended up being sent to Manila.

Among the 40 terrorists caught in Cagayan de Oro was bomb expert Abu Jadid, who was rounded up in a subdivision. The terrorist was believed to have stayed with a relative who resides in the city.

There was also an instance when the terrorists who escaped Marawi met in Barangay Macabalan – where the city pier is found – with the intention of boarding an Iloilo-bound ship to escape.

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Fortunately, the fugitives were apprehended with the help of the coast guard. MGen Madrigal stresses that his office is collaborating with other agencies in order to decrease the threat in the city and preserve peace.

Casualties Despite the considerable decline in number of the Da’watul Islamiyah Waliyatul Masriq (DIWM) – the coalition formed by the Maute group and fighters from the Abu Sayyaf Group, Ansarul Khilafah Philippines and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters – and the arrest of key personalities such as Ominta Maute and Adel Sarip Maute, the group's leadership largely remains intact.

Back in Marawi, Froilan Gallardo of MindaNews reports that the military has retrieved 18 barangays but the DIWM still holds two barangays as of August 2, seeking shelter in mosques, madrasahs and hospitals.

Out of 600 DIWM rebels, 513 have been neutralized as of August 2. Meanwhile, 1,722 residents have been rescued. They are either sheltered in evacuation centers, or are home evacuees, who are temporarily residing with relatives in Cagayan de Oro. On the other hand, the military lost 116 soldiers in action, and 1000 reportedly wounded.

Soldiers in critical condition were brought to Manila for further treatment while the remainder was treated by medical professionals in the city.

Defense Mechanism The Military and Philippine National Police (PNP) have placed down several safety measures to prevent the crisis from penetrating the city and nearby areas. These include establishing Task Force Oro, activating the Martial Law Special Action Group (ML-SAG), setting checkpoints

and curfews in strategic areas, and providing AFP, PNP, EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) to safeguard populated areas. “I believe you will agree with me that most of our constituents here in Cagayan de Oro are able to sleep better with the Martial Law being implemented at the moment,” opines MGen Madrigal.

Under calls of distress, the battalion-sized Task Force Oro serves to prevent and counter terrorism within the city. They also man checkpoints when necessary.

Meanwhile, the ML-SAG is responsible for gathering terrorist-linked

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information and arresting alleged terrorists. With the help of local government units, refugees entering the city are profiled as well. 129 cities in Mindanao have also been blanketed by curfews.

However, only those below 16 years old are affected by the 10PM-5AM curfew implemented in Cagayan de Oro. MGen Madrigal also assures

that a legal team is at hand to ensure that processes undertaken during arrests, searches, and the like, abide with the law.

Madrigal also says that the 4ID has been busier since the Martial Law Implementation.

Aside from guarding the city against another spillover crisis, the 4ID transports relief goods to Marawi and brings wounded military from Marawi for treatment at the 4ID Hospital. They also act as service support for the Marawi clash by providing troops and military vehicles.

A five-month stretch Instead of concluding the 60-day Martial Law on July 22, President Rodrigo Duterte’s appeal for a five-month Martial Law extension on July 18 collected 261 thumbs up out of 279 lawmakers present at the Batasang Pambansa. This prolonged period will be allotted for the continued resistance against the remaining members of the four Da’watul Islamiyah Waliyatul Masriq (DIWM) ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria)-inspired groups. This notably includes about 221 remnants of the Maute group and some forces of the Abu Sayyaf, among others..

Post-Siege Reconstruction Squelching violent extremism in Marawi, and Mindanao as a whole, is the second phase in recovering Marawi. Once terrorism in Marawi is dissolved, Martial Law shall welcome the third and final phase in the city’s recovery: rehabilitation Still, MGen Madrigal thinks dealing with violent extremism isn’t the biggest challenge.

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“The more important problem is the post-conflict reconstruction and post-conflict activities that we have to undertake.” This involves preventing or treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) of troops, victims, and civilians involved in the siege. In addition, the city’s reconstruction will be subject to the ‘Unified Plan for Marawi City’, according to the Philippine News Agency. The plan, furthermore, will be grounded on Islamic context – thus, considering issues on land tenure and use. *** Filipino lives have been lost. These lives remain to be at risk as the Siege persists with each passing day. To put an end to this, the common goal is for Marawi’s recovery to enter its third phase. We can lend a hand by translating our prayers into actions by donating, reporting suspicious activities to the authorities, and advocating against violent extremism.C Sources: “PRRD Letter for Martial Law Extension”, ABSCBN News (https://drive.google.com/viewer ng/ viewer?url=http://sa.kapamilya.com/absnews/ abscbnnews/media/2017/life/07/19/prrd-letter-formartial-law-extension.pdf?ext%3D.pdf) “Congress grants Duterte's request to extend martial law in Mindanao until end of year”, CNN Philippines (http://cnnphilippines.com/) “3-phase recovery, rehab for Marawi”, Philippine News Agency (http://www.pna.gov.ph/) “MARTIAL LAW Update| Opening statement of BGen Gapay during Mindanao Hour”, Eastern Mindanao Command (http://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/)

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he siege in Marawi City has certainly left a mark on its citizens and the people of Mindanao as a whole. Civilians were left scrambling, families were displaced, and the city became a battlefield between the military and members of the Maute group. Amidst the chaos in Marawi caused by the infamous Maute Group, hope still persists. Numerous drives and endeavors have been instigated to give a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in Marawi. In light of such tragedies, the need to come together to do our part in helping out those in need has never been more evident.

Xavier University, being a Jesuit institution and following the code of Cura Personalis and Magis, has played a big role in providing comfort and assistance to the Marawi evacuees through the University’s Social Development (SD) Office, and even in partnership with the Office of the Vice President (OVP).

By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas & JC Marie E. Salas

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The first step In the wake of the Marawi Crisis, the XU SD Office initiated a relief operation drive that accepts cash and in-kind donations from all over the Philippines through its partnership with the OVP. By May 25, the XU Central Student Government (XU-CSG) Department of Social Involvement boosted the drive with a call for XU student volunteers to aid in the packing of relief goods. Aside from handling the logistical needs of the drive in relation to packing, XUCSG also served as the communication arm of the operation, publishing infographics on updates of packed goods.

As of press time, the coined “XU Tabang Marawi” relief operation drive is still ongoing, with volunteers packing goods at the XU Peace Park. It has set up #TabangMarawi fund drive boxes, and conducted special collections for donations from the XU Church and Red Mass.

As of July 14, it has received a total of Php 4,315,944.00 from cash donations.

With the OVP backing up XU Tabang Marawi, XU stands as the logistics hub of donations for Cagayan de Oro City. It serves as the drop-off point for the donations gathered from the OVP, and accepts donations from other partner institutions of the University such as the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, and the CDO City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD).

XU SD office coordinator Nestor Mesias Banuag Jr. attributes the success of the relief operation drive to XU’s partnerships. “Xavier University is very engaged in many networks here in Cagayan de Oro: national, regional, even international. [...] So when it comes to generating Vol. 44 No. 1 August 2017

From #TabangMarawi fund drive boxes: Php 8,805,.40 From XU Red Mass special collections: Php 13,266.45 Total amount of donations (as of 11:21am, 14 July 2017): Php 4,315,944.00 support to donations, Xavier University can facilitate that,” he says.

Now three months in since the conception of XU Tabang Marawi, the SD office has extended its help to evolve further than just providing relief.

This time, it plans to aid in the rehabilitation of Marawi by tapping various departments in the University.

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Basking in the afterglow Meanwhile, the XU Psychology Department, in partnership with the CSWD, is training Muslim volunteers to provide psychosocial first-aid to those affected by the Marawi Crisis. Given the volume of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Marawi, CSWD alone can’t provide the much needed psychosocial support for the community,

thus the need to provide culture-sensitive training to more volunteers. Participants of these trainings are highly recommended to be Muslim since the IDPs prefer to speak in Maranao and are more comfortable with interactions without many culture barriers.

According to XU Psychology Department instructor and CSWD Psychosocial Division Head Jaymee Leonen, the department played a key role in training the first set of volunteers to be mobilized as psychological first aid trainers in the city.

Currently, the XU Psychology Department’s partnership with CSWD has progressed to adopt Iponan Elementary School, Balulang Elementary School, Bulua Elementary School, and South City Central to offer long-term psychosocial processing. “XU is very keen in assisting the community and not just on a one-time thing but on a long-term basis because they adopt schools.

Mao nang ideal nga intervention,” says Leonen.

So far, Leonen has observed that public school teachers have trouble adjusting to the influx of enrolled IDPs. “They want to help the kids but at the same time there are issues coming out from the communities. Naa’y bullying, there’s the language barrier, the discrimination and also the trauma,” explains Leonen. Trainings from the XU Psychology Department for public school teachers are in the works to further help in

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Photos by Jinky M. Mejia

Settling down Considering the impact of the crisis, restoring the city to its former glory will be a long and grueling process. Still, the SD office sees how the University could play a role in the grand scheme of things through its existing facilities and resources.

“This is our mandate, and we have to do something na mas effective, na mas naay impact rather than provide venue for service or outreach,” shares Banuag. “That’s why our means of doing or in responding to the Marawi Crisis, naa pud siya’y science.”

The SD office wanted to target its efforts more on sustainable aid to the community.

It assessed the needs of Marawi through a series of area visits to evacuation centers and meetings, and determined how the University can respond accordingly with the help of its various departments.

XU’s role in the Marawi interventions focus

on three main areas: installing pit latrines, building communal kitchens, and offering trainings for psychosocial first-aid and processing. To realize these, the SD office partnered with Sustainable Sanitation Center (SuSan), the Engineering Resource Center (ERC), and the XU Psychology Department, respectively.

Spearheaded by the Sustainable Sanitation Center, the installment of pit latrines in evacuation centers is an immediate solution in improving hygiene in the area. Pit latrines are toilets that are made from a hole in the ground and can operate without water. Once full, the toilet is covered, and replaced with a new one in another spot. “These are immediate na mga structure na kinahanglan; facility na kinahanglan sa mga tao kay daghan na lagi nagkasakit. Ang uban nangamatay na tungod sa dili ana ka healthy ang ilahang situation,” shares Banuag.

The SD office has installed 6 pit latrines in Iligan, West Pantar Madrasah, and Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa in Marawi city.

Design by Lynette L. Tuvilla and Ryan Christian R. Atis

From XU Church special collections: Php 41,981.80

providing psychosocial aid for the students.

Aside from kids, target participants of the psychosocial processing also include soldiers and other affected individuals involved in quelling the Crisis. “The beauty of the department is that we are giving to all sectors so kung makaya, the department helps.”

Communal Kitchen The XU Engineering Resource Center (ERC), in partnership with the SD office, has pitched in to design a cheap yet functional communal kitchen made of coconut lumber which would be used in various evacuation centers near and in Marawi. The design was made to be simple so as to make it portable, uncomplicated, and cheap.

Each kitchen costs Php 5,000.00 to make.

As of July 22, the ERC has produced and transported 16 communal kitchens to Marawi.

ERC Director Jolou Miraflor explains that although the production of the communal kitchens doesn’t follow a fixed schedule, they plan to create as many of these communal kitchens as needed.

Miraflor expresses that it is their responsibility to help those in need. “I think we are one SD center, the XU-ERC. So we help in the technical requirements, especially when there is engineering needed in the projects of the Social Development center,” he adds. During the design stage of the communal kitchen, the ERC tapped the Civil Engineering faculty to help with the design to ensure its stability. Regarding the proposed Xavier Ecoville plan in Marawi, Miraflor mentions that, “Actually, it depends upon the funds, donors, siguro just like how the Ecoville was made but not really sure about [that yet]. Dili pa gyud siya [concrete]. Actually, there’s no plan yet. It’s still an idea.”

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Photo courtesy of XU Social Development Office

*** As of now, the XU SD office and its partners continue to proceed with their endeavors to help make Marawi a better place despite the active warfare that is taking place. As the fight continues in Marawi, institutions like XU push to let hope win back the city and restore it to its peaceful state. C

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ondly referred to as “vacationers” by the local Muslim community, evacuees from Marawi and neighboring Lanao del Sur municipalities face a multitude of problems.

For one, it is uncertain whether the youth can continue their education. Schools in Lanao del Sur were shut down due to the severity of the Crisis. Students from public and private institutions were forced to transfer to schools in Iligan City, CDO, and other nearby municipalities.

Junior High School students Hassanor and Sudais sought to continue their education in Sharief Alawi Tahfidul Qur-an, an Islamic school located in Balulang, after fleeing their hometown.

into XU’s tertiary level. However, given the horrendous fate of their former schools, their acceptance into the University comes with special conditions.

Under the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Memorandum no. 22 series of 2014, also known as the “Policies and Guidelines on Assistance to Students Severely Affected in Areas Declared Under the State of Calamity”, students “affected by natural and/or manmade calamities” such as the Marawi siege, may continue their education in other schools even without completing the required documents. “The (affected) students have to execute an affidavit of undertaking,” explains University Registrar Verna Lago.

The aforementioned affidavit requires evacuees to swear before a notary that their required documents be submitted to their respective schools once the situation in their previous schools enable them to do so.

Lago adds that the University will refuse to issue the students their necessary credentials until he or she submits the necessary requirements for the transfer. Furthermore, the University may deny the student admission in the next semester.

“No academic record/info will be released to the student.” *** Cagayan de Oro City has become a city of refuge for Maranaos seeking to continue their education and search for peace. Despite the chaos that continues to reduce their beloved city to rubble, children like Hassanor and Sudais continue to dream to return to the city they will always consider home.C

Common Home Compared to the 100 students accepted by Madrasah, there are only 10 evacuees that have been accepted

By Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos, Tatiana L. Maligro & Winona Roselle Serra

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Design by Ryan James P. Pascual

Continuous pursuit of education Sharif Alawi Madrasah principal Alim Abdul Nasser Hadjiabubacar explains that the evacuees enrolled in Madrasah attend classes in other public and private schools in CdeO during the weekdays, and attend Madrasah during the weekends to supplement their learnings.

Displaced learners are given a Learner Reference Number – unique codes on their identification cards which grant them passes to enroll in Madrasah without the required documents. This set-up is effective nationwide. Hadjiabubacar reports that no evacuee was denied entry into their school or any other school.

According to Hadjiabubacar, aside from the traditionally taught subjects such as Mathematics, Grammar, and Science, Madrasah students are also taught Islamic values and discipline. He adds that the Arabic curriculum implemented in Marawi is no different from the one in CdeO. Furthermore, to better cope with the change in environment and the language barrier, the students ask their teachers to speak in Filipino while they improve their Binisaya vocabulary by listening to local

radio outlets.

However, not every Marawi City citizen is fortunate enough to be able to evacuate to a second home in another municipality and continue their schooling. Some families are forced to stay at designated evacuation centers until the conflict subsides.

Students from all over Lanao del Sur transferred to CdeO schools in the thousands.

This began to pose a problem as the evacuees aren’t familiar with Binisaya. To this, the Department of Education-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindano (DepEd-ARMM) responded by mandating teachers from Lanao del Sur to either report to their respective schools on the first day of regular classes or to a school in the city where they temporarily reside. Otherwise, they will be marked absent without leave (AWOL) and lose their jobs.

The government refused to suspend classes in Lanao del Sur with the exception of Marawi, which caused a stir within the teachers’ community.

Many were reluctant to return because, aside from the obvious fear factor, prices of goods were going up. Moreover, travelling from CdeO to Lanao took a grueling 7-10 hours.

Baisana Panda, who is currently teaching in an Elementary School in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur, explains the difficulties they face, “Along with the food price hike, the electricity is also gone.

Nawawala din minsan yung signal kaya hindi namin macontact yung pamiliya namin.” She adds, however, that she will continue to fulfill her duty to the country no matter what it takes. The same can be said for her colleagues and fellow teachers who continue to teach, even with armed conflict just kilometers away.

By Nikki Gay Louise P. Amores

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n response to the Marawi Crisis, various organizations have initiated relief operations to aid Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) or people who were forced to leave their homes but stay within the country as a result of conflict. One of these efforts is XU Social Development (SD) office’s drive titled, “XU Tabang Marawi” in cooperation with the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines.

To help in the repacking of relief Aside from relief goods, XU Tabang Marawi goods, various groups of volunteers has also gathered cash donations to help fund the took part in XU Tabang Marawi. transport, purchase, and repacking of relief goods, These volunteers put relief goods in as well as other necessities that the IDPs need. As sacks and helped keep track of data. of July 14, XU SD office has garnered a total of The military forces will then deploy Php 4,315,944.00 of cash donations for XU Tabang the donations by batch to different Marawi. Furthermore, the Austrian government has relocation centers. The following donated Php 1.6 million, which are the groups of volunteers behind should be spent on or before the XU Tabang Marawi Relief July 31 for the IDPs. Operations: Volunteers: • Xavier University College students • Xavier University Senior High School students • Xavier University Community • Xavier University Alumni • St.John Vianney Theological Seminary • MFI Working Student • Alpha Phi Omega (NMAR) • Christian Family and Life Apostolate • Xavier Science Foundation • Philippine National Police • Philippine Army • Students from Regional Science High School • Catholic Youth Association • Island Kids Foundation • Smart Communications • Missionary Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo-Scalabrinians 14

When deployed goods have been delivered to different relocation centers, a select group of volunteers from the SD office personally distribute the relief goods to the IDPs. This ensures that the goods are evenly distributed to the IDPs and are ensured to reach the centers.

The relocation centers listed below are mostly the recipients of the food packs and other basic needs. Also, a portion of the relief goods are given to the home-based IDPs.

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Relocation Centers reached by relief goods: • Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur • Balo-i, Lanao del Norte • Bito Buadi Itowa, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur • Iligan • West Pantar Madrasah, Lanao del Norte • Alnur Madrasah

The SD Office is not only planning on giving canned goods and other usual contents of food packs but they are planning to go beyond that. “Dili na kaayo siya on canned goods. Dapat naa na’y gulay, so naa na’y vegetables. Katong dili kaayo dali ma-rot. [For example] calabasa, monggo. So if makaya pa na butangan nato og bulad, mas maayo” Banuag shares.

Though a number of the IDP population are staying with relatives in nearby areas or across the country, there are still people who are within the city limits of Marawi. These people come from low income classes that have no choice but to stay in relocation centers provided by the government and whose resources depend on the relief goods that they receive.

It is these people who receive the bulk of donations that continually flow into the various relocation sites throughout Mindanao.

The population in the evacuation centers is undeniably growing in numbers.

However, the SD office is geared on distributing relief goods other than food packs, as there are other needs of the IDPs that need to be met such as school supplies.

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Listed below are the immediate needs of the IDPs: (Food packs) • Vegetables (preferably those that will not rot for a long period of time e.g. monggo, squash, and potatoes) • Bottled water • Halal food (Other needs) • Slippers • Clothing • Blankets • School supplies • First aid kits • Toiletries

After a thorough assessment on the current situation of the IDPs sinside Marawi City, the XU Tabang Marawi team is looking for a way to be able to enter deep within the city to distribute relief goods.

Due to the ongoing armed conflict in the area, the innermost part of the city is left behind in the distribution of the relief goods. Aside from that, the SD Office is also looking forward to providing medical aid and missions through the XU School of Medicine. Those who wish to donate or help out in the relief operations can visit the XU SD Office located at the first floor of the Agriculture building.C

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Design by Lynette L. Tuvilla

Currently, the Tabang Marawi team is constructing communal kitchens, so that IDPs can cook their own food. The team is also working on providing relocation centers with pit latrines through XU’s Sustainable Sanitation Center.

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o you expect to enter Paradise without being tested like those before you?”

This challenge from the Qur’an was written with Muslims in mind. Nevertheless, the history of Mindanao and now the ongoing battle for Marawi strongly suggest that this passage could be meant for all Mindanaoans regardless of religion.

However, it is evident that the divinely-issued test for Paradise has yet to be passed. Though the Christians and Muslims of Mindanao are on friendly terms, there remain murmurs of old, undying prejudices coming from both sides. The Maute group’s having gone renegade supposedly in the name of Islam is merely the hulking iceberg’s bloodied tip.

Be that as it may, the Mindanao situation had been much worse in the past, reaching fever pitch during the Marcos years. While the Philippine government and Moro insurgents were busy fighting, negotiating, and fighting again and again, a small group of Christian and Muslim leaders quietly got together to find a better way. After all, the problem of peace is firstly a matter of the human spirit.

A brief history of violence To outsiders unfamiliar with the situation in Mindanao, it is easy to write it all off as deep division along ethno-religious lines. “In terms of persuasion, a lot of Mindanaoans are persistent in their beliefs,” says Rev. Nehemiah Sia, an Evangelical minister from Quezon City. “There is a sense of stubbornness; that is why it creates friction.”

Although Sia does have a point, there is more to it than mere religious differences, which date back to the incursions made by conquistadors during the Spanish period. The modern conflict began with reports about an incident called “the Jabidah Massacre,” which was said to have taken place in Corregidor in March 1968. According to Thai historian W.K. Che Man, between 28 and 64 Filipino commandos of Moro extraction who refused to take part in a secret invasion of Sabah, codenamed “Operation Merdeka,” were summarily executed by their superiors to prevent leakage of the plot.

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Whether the incident actually took place remains disputed to this day; however, the fact remains that reports of the massacre led the Moros to develop distrust for the Marcos administration. Malaysia retaliated in 1969 by training and arming batches of young Moro separatists, thus laying the foundation for the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) led by Nur Misuari. The years that followed would see a seemingly endless cycle of clashes and raids between armed Muslim and Christian groups in places like Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Cotabato. Furthermore, with the declaration of Martial Law in 1972 came the nationwide confiscation of privately-owned guns that only worsened matters in Mindanao, as rumors were spreading among Muslims that disarmament was the first step to forced conversion to Christianity.

Misuari did not always resort to armed struggle, and negotiated whenever he could. However, this was seen by some MNLF leaders such as Hashim Salamat as a betrayal of their principles.

In 1977, Salamat broke off to form the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Following Marcos’s ouster in 1986, the Moro peoples would gain more concessions from the new government, most notably the creation of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 1989. Misuari himself became ARMM governor after signing the 1996 Peace Agreement with President Fidel V. Ramos.

Even the MILF would soften its stance in time. In 2014, the Aquino administration and the MILF signed an agreement that would have led to the creation of a new entity with more territory and even greater autonomy under the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law. But this was not to be: in January 2015, a 44-man contingent of the Philippine National Police’s Special Action Force was wiped out in Mamasapano, Maguindanao during an engagement with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, itself a splinter group of the MILF. The peace agreement was quietly forgotten in the public outrage that ensued.

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By James Edgar T. Sia

On May 23, 2017, a terrorist force led by brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute occupied Marawi.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love Two places in Marawi torched by the Mautes were Dansalan College and St. Mary’s Cathedral – places which to Muslims stand for the friendship of two prominent Christians: American missionary Peter Gowing (1930-1983) and Catholic Bishop Bienvenido Tudtud (19311987). “They were the pioneers of interreligious dialogue,” says Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, S.J., himself a longtime advocate for interreligious harmony.

A minister with the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP), Gowing came to Marawi in 1974 to teach at the UCCP-run

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Dansalan College – the very school where Omar Maute spent happy years as a highschooler.

Although Muslim militants burned down his office during a raid in 1980, Gowing did not give in to hate. Instead, he began to research about Islam in the Philippines and eventually founded the Dansalan Research Center, whose aim was to educate Christians about Muslims. Gowing also wrote a number of books about Muslim Filipinos.

Atty. Ombra Gandamra, director of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) office in Cagayan de Oro and a native of Marawi, is an admirer of Gowing’s work and legacy.

In 1971, Tudtud became Bishop of the Prelature of Iligan, a Catholic administrative territory which included Marawi at the time.

Gandamra remarks that only a decade before this period, Marawi “used to be 50-50” when

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it came to Christian and Muslim citizens, until hostilities compelled most of the Christians to leave the city for good. Tudtud saw dialogue as a peaceful solution to this problem, and so left for Rome in 1974 to study at the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies. This caught the attention of Pope Paul VI, who in Tudtud’s words “immediately suggested that a community of Christians be formed whose sole aim would be reconciliation.” In 1976 Tudtud became the first bishop of the new Prelature of Marawi, which was to serve as a Catholic embassy of goodwill and reconciliation in a Muslim-dominated region.

Unfortunately, Tudtud died in an airplane crash in 1987. However, his work lives on in Marawi’s Catholic priests – particularly Fr. Teresito “Chito” Suganob, whom Muslims love and respect dearly like one of their own. When Gandamra’s nephew, Majul Gandamra, became mayor of Marawi in the 2016 election, the elder Gandamra urged him to always consult with Suganob in matters of peace and order.

Suganob was among those taken captive by the Mautes. While terrorists usually execute Christian ministers without mercy, the Mautes have instead kept Suganob as a hostage and put him to work as a camp cook.

Conversations over dinner For UCCP senior minister Rev. Ricardo Yañez Jr., interreligious dialogue has always been a part of his career, having been assigned to places such as Basilan, Zamboanga, and Ipil.

Ipil was where he made friends with Ledesma – who was then Ipil’s bishop – in the late 90s. He adds that it was also at this time that Christian bishops and ulama (Islamic scholars) began to dialogue with one another. Beginning with a 1996 forum held in Manila, the series of meetings that followed would lead to the establishment of today’s Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC), whose aim is to provide a spiritual counterpart to the negotiations between the government and Moro rebels and encourage harmony between Christians and Muslims by setting a good example.

Politics and religion can be irksome topics to people – but not food. One annual initiative supported by the BUC is “Duyog Ramadan,” which Yañez describes as an invitation for

non-Muslims to fast alongside Muslims during Ramadan. Gandamra says that everyone’s favorite part is the sundown breaking of the fast, wherein everyone partakes of a halal dinner. Between Christians and Muslims, the enjoyment of food is never a cause of contention.

Ledesma, who to this day remains an active member of the BUC, adds that one more thing must be done besides interreligious dialogue.

“Now we’re also talking about intrareligious dialogue,” Ledesma says, meaning that with both Christians and Muslims, efforts must be made among their co-religionists to sort out and eliminate negative biases about the other.

Young voices weigh in Mechanical engineering major G-Han Bax intuitively understands that the Mautes do not represent Islam despite their emphatic claims to do so. "I haven't personally read the Qur’an to check the basis of their ideology, but it would be wonderful for me if I'll have the opportunity to study their faith," says Bax, who regularly attends Elevate, an Evangelical youth fellowship.

"I have joined interfaith dialogues and realized that through having a dialogue is how we can understand and tolerate one another," says Khalid Bashier, former president and now senior consultant of the Sira'j Muslim Religious Organization.

Although a professed agnostic, computer science alumnus Edward Forteza is willing to have a little faith in dialogue. "Any step that helps towards peaceful coexistence is good. Strip people of their faiths, and we're all just human," Forteza says.

Will there be peace in our time?

“In heaven, the only art of living is forgetting and forgiving,” wrote the poet and artist William Blake. In this life, Mindanao is a home that we can deem as paradise. But it can never be a heaven on earth, so long as old grudges remain unextinguished.

Mindanao is truly blessed to have spiritual leaders who persist in their work toward the promise of harmony. But on their own, they can only do so much. The question then remains: will their vision become a reality?

The answer is up to the rest of us.C

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By Merryane Rose S. Bacud

Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

eace in Mindanao is one of the highly talked about issues in the country. For several years, Mindanao has been feared by many, given a reputation of being “unsafe”, “violent”, or “dangerous” because of the existing terrorism and conflict. People who believe in this continuously downgrade Mindanao, basing their prejudices on a number of news reports about military-vs-rebel conflict in the area.

In light of the recent Marawi siege, a group called ‘I am Mindanao’ is one of the many social campaigns that aim to spread awareness in an attempt to change people’s perspective on how Mindanao is a safe place of paradise and beauty.

I am Mindanao ‘I am Mindanao’ seeks to educate, empower, and strengthen the youth – especially college students – to counter violent extremism. The campaign started in June 2016 with only seven members under the Development Communication (DevCom) Department. It is headed by XU DevCom Chair and I am Mindanao moderator, Evans Yonson.

Bent on erasing the stereotype and discrimination, the team named their campaign ‘I am Mindanao’ as they proudly embody the radiance and spontaneity of being a Minadanawon. “It is always a privilege to be a Mindanawon and also a challenge for us because of what is happening now. The crisis that we are experiencing today made us realize that our role [in promoting peace] is relevant,” shares I Am Mindanao second team leader Rey Anthony Anacleto.

According to Anacleto, violent extremist groups in the Philippines pledged an allegiance to Daesh, a foreign extremist group. This made Mindanao a level away from being declared as a Daesh province in the Philippines because the group had influenced some of the minds of local extremist forces in Mindanao. Anacleto adds there is a big possibility that Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) will soon be establishing its group in Mindanao. “As Mindanawon youth, we want to prevent these ideologies from infesting our island.

That is why we’re driven by this reality to dissuade

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the youth from joining these violent extremist factions,” Anacleto shares.

Violent Extremism Violent Extremism in Mindanao is prevalent.

There have been reports that ISIS is recruiting students from campuses in Mindanao. Members are mostly recruited from families who are below the poverty line. Incentives are offered to persuade them to join their group. According to the ‘I Am Mindanao’ blog, the country still faces violent extremism despite numerous efforts of resolving military conflicts. Philippines ranks 12th out of 130 nations in the Global Terrorism Index 2016.

Despite the existing problem in Mindanao, Anacleto believes that asserting one’s identity will greatly contribute to countering violent extremism. “The youth must find their true identity whether they are Lumad, Christians, or Muslims. They must know where they belong and determine their purpose as Mindanawons which is to promote peace in the island,” he shares.

Reaping what was sowed The “I am Mindanao” team and its steadfast efforts in raising awareness through various promotions in social media was globally recognized in Edventure Partners and Facebook’s “Peer-toPeer: Facebook Global Digital Challenge”. They were chosen as one of the student teams to represent their campaign at Washington, DC on July 19 for the finals.

Competing against other finalists from Spain, Nigeria, and Bangladesh, the I Am Mindanao team was awarded as the fourth best campaign across the globe, and the best team in Southeast Asia. “It is an honor to represent the country and we are glad that our efforts have been recognized internationally,” Anacleto beams.

The team is also consistently generating partners for their future activities. “I can say that the future of the campaign is bright. More partnerships means more activities to organize,” Anacleto says. They are looking forward on expanding their reach from Cagayan de Oro to the whole Mindanao. “We are also targeting to register this campaign as a youth organization here in our country.” *** The fight against extremism and other people’s misconceptions on Mindanao should start with the students. It is in our hands to empower Mindanao and to promote its beauty as well. We should also take pride in being a Mindanawon.

The ‘I am Mindanao’ team took a step forward in promoting what Mindanao is all about. It is time for us to do the same.C

Vol. 44 No. 1 August 2017

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all drivers to remove anything that blocks their view from the road to avoid accidents.” This made me angery but I was more distracted by the fact that he actually knew the lingo. “Especially the Shiba---- Awwwe. This one’s cute! It’s the cutest of them all!” He said with eyes sparkling.

I crossed my fingers, hoping he would let us get away with this by the power of the Shiba Inu’s hypnotizing cuteness. He did, but not without Kuya Driver having to give an extra purple bill before being let go.

My professor scolded me in front of the class for arriving 15 minutes late but I still strutted to my seat. I gazed out the window, and realized the true beauty of the view from the 6th floor: you could see everyone running late for their 7:30 am class. Ah, the sight is enough to make a teacher cry! I’m getting emotional just looking at it!

For brunch, I decided to eat at Magis. I couldn’t wait to have a decent meal with unli rice after a series of unfortunate events (Don’t tell me how it ends. I’m still on the first episode)! After finishing a cup of rice, I ordered another one but the saleslady denied me the rice. “Ga ready na mi para sa Unli-Rice Ban, ma’am, so dili na mi ga hatag og extra rice. Unli atchara na lang ma’am, gusto ka?”

Are you kidding? I asked for a staple and you’re going to give me a side dish? In my mind, I cursed a senator for her wonderful piece of legislation.

The moment was just enough to merit a ridiculously long tirade on social media but instead of flaunting my impressionable thoughts on the matter, I whipped out my phone for a selfie to at least start the day on a good note. Suddenly, a student tapped my shoulder. “Did you know that there is an Anti-Selfie Bill here in the Philippines?

Do you know that what you’re doing is an act of intrusion of personal privacy? It is stated in the bill that--” I locked my phone.

This was all too much to handle.

“So many senseless bills,” I lamented, and let out a dramatic sigh. I lay down on the floor with utter disregard for the world, playing that Snow Patrol song in my mind again and again.

Moments later, a security guard nudges me with his foot, telling me to stand up. Apparently, an anti-planking law exists in the Philippines as well.

Ah, the beauty of nonsensical laws! The quest to become the smartest person in the world has become 10x easier!C

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Illustration by Rizalyka Joanne M. Waminal

he sounds of my alarm broke me out of my dream filled with bobble heads of doggos. As the sun streamed through the windows, I glanced at my clock and saw “6:30am” blaring bright and red, right on schedule for me to be late yet again for my 7:30 am class. To save time, I skipped breakfast and thought of booking a GrabTaxi. I was about to click “book now” until I remembered that Grab operations may be affected due to a government regulatory body’s crackdown on unregistered drivers using the ridesharing services. Sure, ride-sharing services are accessible and oftentimes come with 5 percent discounts! But you know what they say: we can’t have nice things! Still, I decided to settle with an alternative: BragTaxi. As I booked it, the driver instantly bragged that he’ll be here in no less than 3 minutes. Sweet!

Kuya Driver was actually kind and cheerful and even his taxi seemed to smile at me with its curving bumper. He had me at the blepping doggo bobble heads on the windshield, which even thawed my ice-cold heart in a way that the Cagayan de Oro heat never can. My math teacher would have been impressed: traffic plus a closed bridge equaled to a fuming Cora Contrabida in a ridiculously cute car with doggo bobble heads.

When the vehicles actually started to move, the Roads and Traffic Administration enforcer was waving us forward until I realized he was calling us out to stop for a brief inspection.“Ser, please remove your blepping doggo bobble heads. We now have an Anti-Distracted Driving law which requires

NI BEN

Kung naa kay mga tinaguan

na joke, komik, o hirit line

mubida amigo/amiga! Kay

Joke Mo, Komik Ko!

niana ang inyung ginahu

draa, oras na nimo para

lat-hulat mga hi-gala! Ug kung ikaw ang palarang mapilian, imong gisend kay buhatan namo ug komik! Ug ikaw kay makadawat ug gagmay nga pahalipay! Isend lang sa jokemokomik-

KURISWORD ACCROSS 4

The action of moving to a new place and establishing one’s home 7 Philippines second largest island 9 The holding of extreme politi cal or religious views 10 Internally _________ Persons 11 Year ARMM was established 12 I am Mindanao moderator 14 Leader of Marawi’s terrorist force

17 18 19 21

ko@gmail.com o isulat sa SHORT BP kauban imong kompleto na pangalan ug kurso ug ihatag sa STC 302,

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Publication office!!

Commander of AFP’s Fourth Infantry Division This Center produced and transported 16 communal kitchens to Marawi XU Tabang ______ Slang term for dog 22 A foReign extremist group 23 Second ‘S’ of ISIS 24 UCCP Senior Minister

DOWN 1

Abbreviation of Sustainable Sanitation Center 2 Philippine Military’s plan to invade Sabah 3 Last name of Sharif Alawi Madrasah principal 5 A college for Islamic instruction 6 Total cash donation received as of July 14 8 XU SD Office Coordinator 13 Self-portrait photograph 15 Local Muslims term for evacuees 16 Muslims Bible 20 One of the Relocation Centers reached by relief goods

To join: Photocopy this Kurisword with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your fullname and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables.

Congratulations sa atong maidlot ug masipagon mag answer na jumega nga si Robin Maeve T. Bacarro!! Nakadaog ka ug usa ka set na kape ug asukal para makapadayun ka sa imong pag-eskwela - charot! Juk lang, Balulang!! I-claim lang imong prize sa STC 302 TheCrusader Publication office! Pag knock lang katulo, kusga ha?! Para makadungog pati ang pikas room! Okeeh, Kita-kita ta sa office puhoon!

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Vol. 44 No. 1 August 2017

KURISCOPE Aquarius (ang shokoy sa canal) Bisaya ra kayo kag nawong dzai, pwamis! Oh niay sand paper I-kiskis sa imong dagway aron mahamis.

Special events to note: Pa-sched ni Belo, please lng! Ayaw kaluoy sa imong kaugalingon, kaluoy sa amo gatan-aw nimo. Jk.

Aries (ang kanding na lambing) Ikaw ang tawo na pursigido, kung nay buhaton positibo. Ayaw kumpyansa migo, basin wa gihapon kay uyab karong pebrero.

Special events to note: Migo/miga, apil ug catering services basin makitan nimo imong forever sa imong pag hukad-hukad.

Cancer (the ultimate survivor) Muabot sa atong kinabuhi ang temptations bai, ayaw gyud padala ana nila makadaut na no lie. Apan kung dili ka mutuo nga naa sa ulahi ang pagmahay, halaka go pag addict2 na ug ginagmay.

Special events to note: To church we go, attend ta ug mass aron ma enlighten ka.

Capricorn (ang tawong sigeg tan-awg horn) Hoy undangi na ng imong gibuhat, masama yan! Baka dili magdugay, ikaw mahuli-cam!

Special events to note: Go with Cancer bro, parehas ramo!

Gemini (kambal tuko, nawong murag kuto) Inday paghinay-hinay, sa pagskwela dili magpalanay.

Patuo pirme ni nanay, aron sa future dili ka mamaligyag siomai ug pirme kaog kamunggay.

Special events to note: Alangan de sa school dzai, kaw, kaw!

Leo (ang tawong ga pirme ga smile maskin ang ngipon ga yellow)

I saw you in the distant future, naglaroy-laroy ka imo nawong murag nanglumoy. Apan sa akong nasaksihan sunod kuratan ko migoy, kawatan naman di ay ka nagdagan-dagan pina-sutoy.

Special events to note: Storya ra ta sa phone, nia akong number oh 09123456677. Hadlok ko nimo. Ang nakit-an nako imo gikawatan sa future kay ako.

Libra (ang hilomon nga libakera) Kabalo ko giyaga-yagaan niya imong heart, alangan naman imo siyang pugson wala natay mabuhat part.

Ako pa sa imo be smart, pag move-on na lets go back from the start.

Special events to note: There’s a bigger chance to find your special someone sa cinehan, ayaw lang kumpyansa baka kana ikogan!

Pisces (the Legendary Human galunggong) Ingon pa ni Kendrick “ Be humble�, so ayaw pag-kinapayas. Undangi na na nga batasan aron dili ka mahapakan ug tsinelas.

Special events to note: Hiring now ang ACE hardware, abay didto sa electric fan kaw! Char lng.

Taurus (ang baka na bakla) Kabalo ang yunibers unsa imong gikinahanglan, ang naay mutanaw nimo ug muatiman, feeling-on dili uyab ato gisturyahan, iro imong kinahanglan.

Teeyaa

Special events to note: Dili pa obvious? Adtog dog shows uy atay.

Virgo (ang tao nga obedient sa clean as you go) Klaro kaau sa imong nilihokan na ikaw maayo nga bata, daku ug balon hinatud pa sa papa. Ayaw sa pag uyab-uyab kay baka di ka kaagwanta, mga babae ikaw pasakitan ug pahilakon imong mata.

Special events to note: Here, there, somewhere, anywhere, elsewhere, everywhere!

Sagittarius (ang maayo mu guitar nga walrus) Sa mga tawo ikaw ang idol, pero usahay dili sila muduol, kabalo ka ngano dol? Baho na kayo ka, pistol!

Special events to note: Naay event ang Rexona sa Ketkai ron. Go na! go lang ng Go! Baho naka migooo!

Scorpio (ang mapagmahal na matinik) Naay nag-seryosos sa imoha, imong gibyaan, ayaw hulati na ikaw na sad ang masakitan. Akong tambag mao ayaw duladula-I ang feelings sa uban, aron free ka i-face ang kamatuoran.

Special events to note: Pagpray ug 3 ka Amahan namo. REPENT char lang!

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