Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 by The BEACON Publications

about the cover

Photographed by Farouk Susulan The Zamboanga Crisis was tragic. Yet, it does not mean that this is the end of the road for us. Healing means we need to embark on a new and better road – the road to recovery, the road to Zamboanga’s tomorrow.

Table of Contents Opinion

Fe ature

Ne ws Fe ature

3 NO EXCUSES 4 ATENEO DE ZAMBOANGA UNIVERSITY STATEMENT 18 THE BLUE EAgLE Of tHE AtEnEO DE ZAMbOAngA

5 AMBAG 6 HAPPY KID PrOJECt 7 PrOJECt PAgHILOM

12-13 An EVACUEE’S CHrOnICLE 14-15 TrOUbLES AnD FLAWS 16-17 HIDE AnD SEEk

8-9 THE WOEfUL TALE Of A CItY 10-11 THE ROAD tO RECOVErY

Editorial Staff Editor in Chief

Sarah Gail Galvan

Associate Editor

John Xyrious Dela Cruz

Managing Editor

Alexa Potayre

cre ative te a m Layouts and Graphics

Jessa Kristine Del Mar | Windel Opinion

Finance Officer

Karlmay Donato

Circulations Officer

Charlotte Tugal

Cartoonists

Physical Property Maintenance Officer

Raphael Acuña

Communications Officer

Irene Wahab

Yves Xaviery Valero | Lea Alessandra Lim

Moderator Publisher

Marion B. Guerrero The Ateneo Studentry

Member

College Editor’s Guild of the Philippines

Newsfeatures Editor Keith Joshua Dumpit Features Editor

Jam Camille Quintanes

Creative Director

Frances Grace Florendo

Head Cartoonist

Eunice Mae Anne Serneo

Head Photographer

Darrylene Clemente

M anagerial Department

Photojournalists

Farouk Susulan

BEACON Publications holds office at the Ground Floor, Xavier Hall, Fr. Eusebio G. Salvador, SJ Campus, Ateneo de Zamboanga University Telephone: (062) 991–0871, Local 4603 Email: beaconpublication@yahoo.com

t has been said that war is necessary. That for peace to be achieved, people must fight for it, be it through diplomatic or violent means. Even famous writer, J.R.R. Tolkien said, “War must be, while we defend our lives against a destroyer who would devour all; but I do not love the bright sword for its sharpness, nor the arrow for its swiftness, nor the warrior for his glory. I love only that which they defend.” To see war in that light shows that war could be justified, if and only if there is a purpose, a reason for those involved to raise their swords and shield and fight. Though the Zamboanga Crisis cannot be compared to the extent of that of wars that involved nations, the harsh suffering that the citizens experienced is still the same. War. That is the best thing that could define those days of chaos. Yet, what is grim is whether there was a purpose to this particular war that could justify all. Was there a good enough reason for innocents to have been traumatized because they have been used as human shields? For Zamboangeños and soldiers alike to have died because the former was caught in the cross fire and the latter because they had to defend their countrymen from a rebel group that callously crossed the lines of rationality? Should the reason of wanting to raise a flag in defiance of the government or the tantrums of a man who felt slighted by the same be a justification for all? No. In no universe, be it here or in a parallel one, will those reasons be ever good enough. This war was senseless and in its senselessness, it cannot be blamed that when those members of the Misuari Faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) were caught, some citizens just had to express their condemnation through a physical manner. But it is not only these members that deserved a beating, literally or figuratively. The one who should truly be blamed is the mastermind behind all of the chaos – Nur Misuari.

Photo retrieved from http://www.remate.ph/wp-content/uploads/ cache/284412_BnHover.jpg

Indeed, Misuari was once a notable figure that to a certain extent, deserved recognition for the efforts that he has done to fight for the rights of his fellow Muslim brothers and sisters. The key word here is “was.” Even if his past actions showed him to be a notable figure in history, this does not justify why the government has not caught the man yet, despite supposedly “persistent” manhunts being done. It is not clear as to why this one man has been proven elusive against what should have been an entity that had enough power and influence to accomplish anything in the country, especially when people like Atty. Emmanuel Fontanilla and Rev. Absalom Cerveza is in contact with him and may have knowledge of his location. Thus, in light of the recent events in Zamboanga, the victims demand reparation from the very man-kid who had the gall to involve a city in his attempt to cry out to the world his indignation just because he was left out in a peace treaty that he felt should have been spearheaded by him, not unlike a child who would kick, flail, and cry bloody murder just because he was ignored. Ironically enough, this is coming from a man who felt he should represent his people who are suffering, while he himself is languishing in style while on the run. In this degree, there are no excuses for failure. This hunt now for Misuari should not take years, as is the modus operandi of the Philippine government when it comes to serving justice on this kind of level, considering that this is a man that has been head and command of a rebel group that perpetuated conflict in various areas of Mindanao in the past and present already. This should not be much of a problem anymore as currently, even the MNLF are supposedly hunting down Misuari themselves. It just goes to show how much Misuari has gone off the deep end and should take accountability for his actions. So P-Noy, this is an order from your “boss.” Give the Zamboangeños the justice that they want, need, and deserve. Do not let us down.

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Don’t let this hostaget a k i n g hostage the whole peace process. And let Zamboanga City rise from the ashes!

ATENEO DE ZAMBOANGA UNIVERSITY STATEMENT:

A Statement on the MNLF-Misuari Faction “Attack” in Zamboanga City We strongly condemn the recent hostage-taking in Zamboanga City by a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in a desperate attempt apparently to pursue independence. This act has instilled fear among those deprived of freedom of movement, displaced thousands of residents from five barangays, disrupted the livelihood of hundreds of families, damaged properties, seriously affected regular classes, work and businesses, and isolated the city with the cancellation of land, sea and air trips. How we wish the hostage-takers would see the thousands of evacuees who are now seeking shelter in the City Grand Stand! See the disruption of nearby hospitals that had to transfer their patients to safer covered courts, the children and even the pregnant women who until now are traumatized by the cowardly act of these lawless elements. Add to this is the use of human shield in order to move around – this is a crime against humanity. Yes, we understand that the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed by the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) might have caused misunderstanding, confusion and demoralization among some leaders of the MNLF. We believe, however, that there are open lines and legitimate ways of resolving the conflict and completing the implementation of the MNLF Peace Agreement. And so we call upon the authorities concerned to effectively address the issues raised by the MNLF. We call on both the Government and the MILF to craft a more inclusive Bangsamoro Basic Law.

As we write this message, we salute the City Government for its leadership in handling the crisis situation and for its compassion for the displaced persons. We thank the support by the police and the military as well as the intervention of the civil society and the national government. We mourn the death of all those killed on both sides of the encounter. Of course, we are aware of the glitches that went with the demands of quick action and lack of complete information. We promise to sustain our partnership with various sectors and institutions, especially in terms of humanitarian work for the displaced families and of the sincere search for long term solution to this situation of unpeace. Despite all this disruption, let the peace talks continue! Don’t let this hostage-taking hostage the whole peace process. And let Zamboanga City rise from the ashes! More than any other time, let all sectors of society combine our gifts to support the birth of a new City of Zamboanga. May Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar intercede in our fervent prayers to bless our leaders with courage, faith, and strength. We also pray for enlightenment of the rebels and for peace here in our beloved City and in other troubled parts of the country. This statement was taken from Ateneo de Zamboanga University’s official website and was posted during the crisis period.

Photo by C.H. Lin 4 | the beacon newsmagazine

project amBAG words by Loren Marie Justo

photos by Lea Alessandra Lim

During the siege, not only did hearing sporadic gunshots become a part of our daily routine but the razing of several houses to the ground was regularly observed as well. According to the Bureau of Fire and Protection, roughly 10,160 structures were burned and some of these structures included schools located in the affected barangays. On top of that, there were around 20,000 students who were affected by the fire according to reports made by the Department of Education (DepEd). These students were forced to leave their homes for their own safety and most of them did not have the opportunity to bring their things for school with them which made it harder for them to continue their education during the crisis. To address this concern, the El Consejo Atenista, in partnership with Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU), SMART Communications, and International Order of the Rainbow for Girls La Hermosa Assembly No. 28, launched an initiative called “amBAG: A thousand bags for a thousand smiles.” The word ambag in our national language means “to share” or “to contribute.” In relation to the word’s definition, the project aims to contribute in aiding Zamboanga City, especially the children, as they regain a sense of normalcy after having experienced the armed conflict against the MNLF-Misuari faction and the military forces.

The word ambag in our national language means “to share” or “to contribute.”

amBAG is a post-rehabilitation project that aspires to address the basic educational needs of the students directly affected by the siege. The team aims to donate at least 1,000 school bags to the students in the areas of conflict, namely barangays Sta. Barbara, Sta. Catalina, Mariki, and Rio Hondo. Each child will be given a school bag filled with supplies necessary for schooling. A bag costs PHP 500 each and it already includes items such as notebooks, a rubber eraser, glue, a box of crayons, an envelope, a folder, a sharpener, and pencils. Not only that, the bags could also be considered as “emergency bags” for the bags are also equipped with a lunch box, a plastic tumbler, and a raincoat. Aside from distributing the bags to the children, amBAG also conducts feeding programs and a “Kids’ Fun Day” on the date of distribution. The project is not a one-day event. The team plans to make it sustainable as long as there is a need. According to Mr. Adriel Earl Toribio, El Consejo Atenista President and one of the core members of the amBAG initiative, they are planning on distributing 1,000 bags every month. Donations for the initiative could be made either in cash or in kind. Every donation is a great help in gathering the necessary school supplies needed for the school kits. People from different walks of life can already make a difference by helping a student go to school and aid him/her in turning his/her dream into a reality. Each and every one of us is invited in making this initiative possible. Let us all share and contribute for a thousand bags in exchange of a thousand smiles. Let us help in bringing back normalcy for the children through their education.

(left) SERVICE FOR OTHERS. Members and volunteers of the El Consejo Atenista finding fulfillment in distributing their first batch of bags for the amBAG initiative. (right) MAGIS AT ITS FINEST. Volunteers of the amBAG initiative organizing the donations from Ateneo de Davao University’s (ADDU) Samahan Central Board into packets for distribution.

Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 5

Making the rain go away words by Ella Janelle Galea

photos by Legal Management Society

Zamboanga City has recently been afflicted with what some called “a series of unfortunate events,” given the month-long crisis due to the stand-off between the MNLFMisuari faction and the government, and also the heavy rains and flashfloods that followed, displacing hundreds of families and destroying their homes. Relief operations and projects sponsored by different local organizations, including those within Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU), have immediately been carried out. One of these is the Happy Kid Project sponsored by the AdZU’s Legal Management Society. The project prioritizes the educational needs of the elementary school students affected by the flood.

Elementary School. November 9 marks the distribution of the first batch of bags.

According to Kara Velasco, secretary of AdZU’s Legal Management Society and current head of the Happy Kid Project, she came up with the idea of starting the project while praying the rosary during the unfortunate times when several barangays in Zamboanga City were ravaged by floods and heavy rains. She decided to pair her prayers with actual efforts to extend help by coming up with the project and involving the school’s entire Legal Management Society to accomplish it easier and sooner. She also sought help from the Legal Management Society’s moderator, Mr. Jose Journal Pangan, while finalizing the project.

In addition to that, according to Velasco, if they have completely and successfully distributed bags to all students, they also plan to help other local elementary schools of different barangays which were also affected by the floods. She wants to see to it that the “Happy Kid Project” becomes an acknowledged project spearheaded by the Legal Management students of AdZU.

The Happy Kid Project’s main goal is to reach out and help elementary school students from Barangay Tugbungan whose school and homes were badly affected by the flood. Barangay Tugbungan is one of the areas in the city severely hit by flashfloods. There were over a hundred families from different parts of the barangay that have been displaced from their homes and have temporarily taken shelter at the elementary school. To help the students, AdZU’s Legal Management Society will distribute waterproof eco-bags filled with school supplies – specifically a pad of paper, notebooks, sharpeners, ball-point pens, pencils, plastic envelopes, and crayons. Each bag costs ₱ 100 and it also includes an emergency whistle. They are hoping to provide bags for all students from grades 1 to 6 at Tugbungan

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As of October 27, they were able to collect enough donations to produce 160 bags ready for distribution. The collection of funds is still ongoing since they plan to distribute bags to all the elementary students of the said barangay. According to Velasco, they felt relieved and happy because aside from the Zamboangueños who were helping out, those currently residing out of the city and country have also been very generous in their donations and efforts to extend assistance.

However, she stressed that Ateneo students should not see this as merely a project of the Legal Management Society but as a project of the entire school stating that “Marami ng mga nangyaring hindi maganda sa Zamboanga and as Zamboangueños, kailangan natin tulungang i-rebuild ang Zamboanga City. Ito ‘yung tamang panahon para ipakita sa lahat na as one ‘yung community ng Ateneo. Kailangan nating lahat magtulungan kasi tayo lang rin naman ang makikinabang sa huli. Wag tayong dumipende sa iba. Kung may maitutulong tayo, then tumulong tayo. Let’s do more. That’s Magis.” For those who would want to help, you can send your cash donations via money transfer or bank deposit. You may also see Hazel Rojas, Gen Dizon, or Kara Velasco from the Legal Management Society.

TIME FOR SCHOOL. Various school supplies are set to be distributed to the elementary students of Tugbungan Elementary School as classes resume once again after days of heavy rainfall.

Heal our land

Project Paghilom:

words by Neilson Nick Alinsañgan

Project Paghilom is a program under Project Banig Zamboanga. Project Banig Zamboanga is an interactive storytelling campaign aimed to promote the appreciation of Philippine folk stories, myths, and legends particularly among the indigenous, underprivileged, and vulnerable children of Western Mindanao. In this regard, Project Paghilom was created with the aim to help those children who were affected by the recent crisis emotionally and psychologically. As Mr. Kiko Miranda, head of the project, said, “It was borne out of the urgent need for psychosocial healing of children affected by the recent standoff in Zamboanga City.” Based on statistics provided by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the number of affected children amounted to around 47,000. The project is divided into three parts. The first part was the preparation for the Paghilom Art Therapy Crates where donations were collected in the form of school supplies, art materials, toys, and other things deemed useful for the children to be used in the therapy sessions. More than 100 volunteer facilitators were also given proper training during a two-day workshop to ensure that the children had their therapy sessions as intended.

captions and photos by Save the Children

A storytelling session where the short story entitled “Nadia and the Blue Stars,” which was provided by CANVAS.PH, was also done. The story of Nadia and the Blue Stars was about a girl named Nadia trapped in a war-torn era. Despite her circumstances, she was able to find hope and moved on with her life – a fitting story given the children’s own experiences during the conflict. At the end of each session, the children were told to write down or draw what they felt about school, family, or the conflict. The children were also lectured about different topics such as their rights as children and matters on sexuality.

The second part of the project is where the concept behind Project Banig was incorporated in the Basic Psychosocial Intervention that was initiated by the Save the Children Foundation and the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) Guidance and Counseling Office. It was a five-day session that started from October 16 to 19 and 21, involving children and adolescents from ages 2 to 18.

The sessions not only gave the children a spark of hope, but it also built a sense of kinship among the children, as Kelvin Culajara, a volunteer facilitator, shared, “On our first day, the division between Christians and Muslims, girls and boys, were so obvious. But as our classes ended last Saturday [October 19], they found themselves playing and dancing and singing with others, not minding if the person that they are interacting to is a girl or boy, a Christian or Muslim.”

The psychosocial sessions were held in five different evacuation centers. With more than a hundred volunteer facilitators, the project served a total of 1,116 children and involved art therapies where children created art works in the form of paintings, drawings, and sculptures. There were also team building activities and play sessions where the children played different physical activities such as sports and games.

The third part of the project is the Balik Kalipay Childto-Child Peace Campaign. This campaign is a child to child card making/writing campaign wherein children from outside Zamboanga City will be interacting with children affected by the recent crisis through letters and cards. Project Banig Zamboanga will be collaborating with Museo Pambata Foundation, Inc. for this campaign.

(left) One of the volunteers, Mr. Ed Pamaran of AdZU in a story-telling session with children at the Taluksangay High School evacuation center.

It may take a long time before the wounds inflicted by the crisis would be completely healed but, there is hope yet as Mr. Miranda affirms that “Project Banig Zamboanga aims to expand and deepen its efforts in healing the wounds that were left by the war. This is just the beginning of a long journey to healing.”

Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 7

hundred as the day progressed and as the violence spread to the other areas in captivity.

The

Woeful Tale of a City words by Keith Joshua Dumpit

photos by Farouk Susulan, C.H Lin, Darrylene Clemente

nstead of typically waking up to the sounds of their alarm clocks on the 9th of September to resume their daily lives, Zamboangueños woke to bustling radio commentaries, resounding gunshots, and frequent explosions which made the day way far from ordinary. The day, as no one foresaw, would mark the start of a near three-week crisis that resulted to lives being sacrificed and citizens being driven from their homes, yet also ushering the emergence of true heroes and leaders. Digging the Roots The cause of the whole confrontation between the breakaway faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Philippine Army was one of the vaguest aspects of the threeweek crisis, with some alluding the cause of the clash to MNLF leader Nur Misuari’s violent pursuit of independence when after his declaration of the same last August 12 was “largely ignored” by the Philippine government while some referring the cause to the questionable theory that the confrontation was staged by the Philippine government to divert the nation’s attention away from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam. Despite the ambiguity of such, what is held to be true was that the MNLF initiated the attack and was the one responsible for all the offenses. Peak Days and Other Notable Events September 8, 2013 – The first sighting of MNLF presence was identified late night at Barangay Rio Hondo where two armed men, allegedly members of the MNLF, were arrested by the Zamboanga City Police for investigation and interrogation purposes. Subsequently, members of the Philippine Army were deployed to the area after reports of additional presence in the barangay.

The group, the members of which were under Misuari’s breakaway faction led by his right-hand, Ustadz Habier Malik, launched an initial attack against the government troops which led to at least three people dead and at least 17 wounded. However, the police pronounced the arrest of 11 MNLF members after such event. The increasing magnitude of the confrontation led the city to shut down, as classes, businesses, and transportation were suspended. For this reason, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin flew to the city to help allay the situation. Furthermore, the residents of the aforesaid barangays, which were infested with rebels, fled the areas and proceeded to the designated evacuation centers. In addition, a curfew was imposed by the city government, the span of which was from 8 PM to 5 AM. September 10, 2013 – The second day of the crisis saw 30 MNLF members being prevented from joining the main force in Sta. Catalina. Confrontation ensued as MNLF rebels launched rocketpropelled grenades and mortars at military troops. Reinforcements for the army arrived as exchange of bullets and explosives continued to erupt. Nevertheless, six hostages were released by the MNLF, including five children. What took place in the afternoon was something people did not expect. Five houses at Barangay Sta. Barbara were set aflame and burned to ashes by the MNLF members, this being the first of many fire incidents thereafter. The presence of snipers in the area made it difficult for the firemen to penetrate the place, as they were being fired at. On the contrary, the MNLF, in their website, rebutted the accusation that they were responsible for all the fire incidents which broke out throughout the crisis. In its defense, the MNLF claimed that it was the army who burned down the houses in a bid to drive them away from the areas. In the second day of the crisis, red alert status was maintained and the number of evacuees continued to balloon. Moreover, Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala confirmed that the number of rebels in the affected areas was not reinforced, but that the rebels had spread out to Mampang and Kasanyangan. It was also on this day when MNLF spokesperson Emmanuel Fontanilla denied that the MNLF initiated the attack and that they acted the way they did out of self-defense. Day 2 of the crisis came to a close as the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) issued statements condemning the clash in Zamboanga initiated by the MNLF.

September 9, 2013 – MNLF members attempted to penetrate the city bounds early morning via the Rio Hondo entry point, which resulted to a confrontation at sea between the Naval Special Operations Group and the MNLF members, who arrived in at least six boatloads, leading to the death of one naval officer.

September 11, 2013 – The third day of the crisis kicked in and sporadic exchanges of gunfire recommenced as evacuees continued to flee the areas and find shelter at evacuation centers. In addition, Mayor Beng urged businesses out of the critical areas to open to meet the demands of consumers and to avoid aggravating the economic loss the city had experienced.

MNLF members, estimated to have been more than 100 in number, infiltrated and occupied four barangays, namely Rio Hondo, Sta. Catalina, Sta. Barbara, and Talon-Talon. The group intended to seize the city hall and hoist their flag of independence, as what Mayor Maria Isabelle “Beng” Climaco-Salazar said, while, at the same time, taking hostage of more or less 20 civilians at Barangay Sta. Catalina to use as “human shields.” The number of civilians held in hostage was reportedly increased to more than a

While the local government was negotiating with the MNLF as to the release of the captured citizens, violence erupted as some members of the Misuari faction were shot and arrested at Barangay Canelar. Among the other incidents of the day was the death of San Roque barangay tanod Francisco Macrohon who was gunned down after being mistaken to be an MNLF member, the breaking out of a fire in Barangay Sta. Barbara, and the issuance of a statement by Presidential Peace Adviser Teresita Deles saying that the government

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would not launch an offense against the MNLF, rather the military troops are merely meant to pacify the situation and ensure the safety of civilians. September 12, 2013 onwards – The government continued to find ways on how to peacefully resolve the crisis in Zamboanga, despite the incessant exchanges of bullets between the MNLF and the army. However, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda warned that the government will not hesitate to use force if the MNLF continued to defy the former. The unrest ensued as the military and the MNLF exchanged firing mortars against each other, but the army was able to turn the tables by committing to an airstrike. Also, it was around this time when Philippine President Benigno Aquino III and Vice-President Jejomar Binay flew to the city to intervene in the situation. As the days progressed, more and more hostages were freed and rebels began to surrender. On a similar note, the number of evacuees continued to increase to more than 100,000, which made the call for donations more urgent. On September 25, the United Nations declared the Zamboanga siege as a humanitarian crisis, also taking note of a similar occurrence in Basilan where at least 19,000 people were displaced also due to unrest led by the MNLF. The situation in the city slowly pacified until it was declared on September 28 that the crisis was over and that clearing operations would commence. October 4, 2013 onwards – With the conflict between the MNLF breakaway faction and the army officially ending, the crisis has yet to end as many who have lost their homes in the ravaging fires had to continue their stay in the evacuation centers while facing a predicament in regards to the limitation of resources. And as if that

were not enough of a problem, the weather took a turn for the worst as heavy rain fell on the days to come causing floods and adding misery to more people in the city, especially to those that have already been displaced by the preceding conflict. The government tents that have been serving as shelters for the evacuees were unable to withstand the downpour forcing the city government to begin constructing raised plywood shelters with tin roofs. Long-Term Repercussions The shutdown of the city during the crisis clearly had a negative impact towards Zamboanga City’s economy as commerce was suspended and normalcy in terms of business was taken one step at a time. With businesses in the city closing earlier than usual, it is apparent that they are slowly coping up towards rebuilding the city’s economic activities. Additionally, the city’s tourism has taken a blow after some countries discouraged their citizens from travelling to Zamboanga, let alone Mindanao, due to the security risk in the area. In addition, the damage of the crisis to both private and public property had been immense, and the value of such will take its toll on ordinary citizens and the local government as the amount will be difficult to recoup. With the consequences from the armed conflict as well as the added burden the floods caused, the city lost, and will probably be losing more, which might affect its place as one of the Philippines’ best cities. With the local government fierce and intense in its goal towards rebuilding Zamboanga back to its former glory, Zamboangueños hope and pray that after the long struggle, better things are in store for the city and for its people.

Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 9

RoadRecovery

words by Christianne Dawn Sicat

the

photos by Darrylene Clemente

September 9 marks the date that would go down in history as the start of the Zamboanga Crisis as the armed rebels of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)Nur Misuari Faction invaded and seized several barangays of Zamboanga City by force. This caused a standoff against the Philippine military forces that lasted for twenty days, paralyzing Zamboanga, disrupting the lives of roughly 840,000 Zamboangueños, burning approximately 10,160 houses to the ground, leaving more than 8,000 people homeless and defenseless, and costing the city PHP 7.76 billion in damages.

The short-term effects of the attack were devastating to the people of Zamboanga and to its mayor, Maria Isabelle “Beng” Climaco-Salazar. But those were nothing compared to the long-term effects of the crisis – having to rebuild Zamboanga and bringing it back to its former glory. There were hundreds of buildings and infrastructures destroyed and mangled, countless of people forcefully uprooted from their normal lives, and thousands more who were emotionally and mentally traumatized. Thus, the government of Zamboanga now faces its greatest challenge yet – raising Zamboanga back from the ashes, figuratively and literally. Leading the restoration of our fallen city is the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Crisis Management Council (CDRRCMC), headed by the mayor herself. The council aims to solve problems that the attack has brought upon the city and rebuild Zamboanga from the ground up. Build Back Better In order to restore Zamboanga City to its former, and hopefully, better state, the local government has come up with a policy which it called the “Build Back Better” policy. According to the coordinator of the Task Force Rehabilitation and Construction (TFRC), Engr. Rodrigo Sicat, the reconstruction of the areas that were damaged and burned down shall be properly planned so that congestion,

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sanitation, and delivery of basic services can be properly addressed. The implementation of new roads, drainage systems, power and water utilities, as well as open spaces like parks and recreational areas, will be made specifically for the barangays of Sta. Barbara and Rio Hondo. As is the policy of the government, legal owners of properties in the devastated areas shall be consulted on how urban development will be carried out. As for barangay Sta. Catalina and other burned down areas, the local government shall consult with the affected on the things that can be built back better. Starting Off The rehabilitation of Zamboanga, specifically its citizens, as explained by Engr. Sicat, begins with the profiling of the internally displaced persons (IDP) in the city to determine their livelihood, legal tenure over their properties, as well as the family size and place of residence. Physical damages and economic assessment on the impact of the crisis shall also be undertaken. In addition to the above, Engr. Sicat adds that technical experts on urban planning, environmental management, and sanitation and hygiene shall be sought to attend to the massive rehabilitation and reconstruction activities. The Steps to Take Given the magnitude and the physical and economic losses of the IDPs, a comprehensive assessment and evaluation through the Post-Conflict Needs Assessment (PCNA) will be carried out by the CDRRCMC. The PCNA shall, among others, determine the investment requirements needed to undertake the rehabilitation and reconstruction case. In addition, healing and consensus building activities are also being carried out for both the directly affected and indirectly affected.

A Team Effort Rebuilding a city from the ground up is no easy task. A number of agencies, as well as people who are willing to lend a hand, are crucial for such a feat to be successful. The lead agency in terms of rehabilitation and reconstruction shall be the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the physical infrastructures while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) shall address the psychosocial needs of the internally displaced citizens. Matters on health, sanitation, nutrition, and hygiene shall fall to the Department of Health (DOH). On the other hand, the local government unit shall provide the necessary institutional support in coordinating the various activities of the different departments. International Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), multi-donors, civil society organizations, and volunteer organizations are also assisting through relief and humanitarian activities for the recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of the affected areas in the City. As the “captain” of the ship, the CDRRCMC shall provide the policy directions in all activities. The Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council), on the other hand, shall provide the legislative actions and measures required for the project. One Big Investment Restoring a city, the third largest in the country by area at that, requires a huge lump sum of money. An initial financial assistance from the Office of the President in the amount of PHP 3.89 billion has been ear-marked for the initial relief, recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction activities that need to be undertaken. It is expected, according to Engr. Sicat, that additional funding will be sought to address the limited budget on hand for the above mentioned activities to be carried out successfully. A Place to Call Home The thousands of evacuees and IDPs have prompted the local government to provide new areas of shelter. Evacuation centers, especially those that were near the affected areas of the humanitarian crisis shall be decongested. It has been observed from the multidonors, as well as the health sector, that the number of IDPs in a main evacuation center is nearing the tipping point in regards to the outbreak of contagious diseases. Therefore, temporary settlements shall be established to provide decent, sanitary, and environmentalfriendly shelters in areas that are readily available. The suitability and acceptability of both the IDPs and host communities shall be accounted for with respect to relocation sites wherein permanent

shelters, as well as the provision of livelihood activities, and basic services shall be sought. As per normal government procedure, letters of intent from private individuals or entities are encouraged, whereby following standard procedures for acquisition as prescribed by the government shall be employed. But the question is – at what cost? Engr. Sicat says that zone evaluation, as well as the market values, of these possible suitable sites shall be assessed as a means to determine the least cost for acquisition. Progress So Far Engr. Sicat discloses that initial assessment of available data, continuing gathering of data, as well as assessment of possible suitable sites, are currently being undertaken. Parallel to this is the ongoing construction of bunk houses, land preparation for additional bunk houses, and building designs for housing on stilts. However, a more important task at hand is the social preparation of the internally displaced in order for them to realize that proper resettlement planning has to be undertaken first prior to them going back to their respective areas. Image Reconstruction A relevant question that needs to be addressed so far is how will the local government try and rebuild Zamboanga City’s shattered image and prospect for tourism? As is evident, a crisis as big and detrimental as this surely puts a toll on the city’s reputation as a tourist spot considering that the initial success for “Zoom In: Zamboanga City” were blotched because of the recent events. Engr. Sicat asserts that while the crisis has set Zamboanga City back by years in terms of promoting it as an investment and as a possible tourism spot, the efforts of each and every Zamboangueño in rebuilding back Zamboanga would be a major contributing factor to bringing the city back as it was or even better than before. The worst has ended, but the fight has barely begun. The road to recovery is long indeed as Zamboanga City will need time to mend itself back together again. However, all hopes that someday, sooner rather than later, the ghosts that this crisis has brought shall be purged as the city will stand again, tall and proud, as “El Ciudad de Zamboanga.”

Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 11

interviewed by Aseya Khadija Calo photos by Xeph Suarez

“The street was packed with the entire neighborhood running away from their houses too, along with their families and bags. Everybody was in sheer panic. Seeing this chaos unfold… defied all the denial I felt… We could really die!” – Safrina Safrina’s family moved to Zamboanga City from Jolo for her college education and the belief that the city is the closest place where they can live a peaceful life. They have been residing harmoniously in Barangay Sta. Barbara until the recent clash between the breakaway faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Philippine armed forces occurred. With the real possibility that Sta. Barbara would be a battle zone soon, the whole community was forced to desert the area and abandon almost everything they had. This is a story of the Zamboanga Crisis told through the eyes of Safrina, an evacuee. Sept 9, 2013. It was supposed to be an ordinary day where I’ll have a short quiz in Accounting and a partially through assignment due in Investment. But then, instead of a ring from my alarm clock, a shout from my father [Ama] downstairs woke me up at about five in the morning. I sluggishly went down the ladder of our double-deck bed still half-sleeping and continued to walk downstairs. I saw him packing something, so I asked him what the fuss was all about. He brusquely instructed me to wake my brother and pack our things because the MNLF is already in Zamboanga City. My sleepiness drifted away, fast. MNLF? Seriously?! I ran back upstairs, woke my 11-year-old brother, opened our drawer, and started packing. I only heard MNLF stories during our Social Studies discussion in class when I was studying way back in Jolo. My brother had his backpack full of clothes while I only had the sling bag I used for school to accommodate some Ateneo shirts, a pair of shorts and leggings, my phone and charger, and some other personal belongings. I only packed a few, thinking this was just [a] false alarm. We cannot really be in danger, right? We left for my aunt’s house which was only three blocks away. The street was packed with the entire neighborhood running away from their houses too, along with their families and bags. Everybody was in sheer panic. Seeing this chaos unfold right before me whilst hearing deafening bullets firing nearby defied the denial I felt. Panic and fear rose inside me like boiling water. My breath caught. We could really die! 12 | the beacon newsmagazine

When we reached my aunt’s house safely, Ama returned to watch over ours. I saw my cousins with their bags packed too. We stood by and waited for the next move. Meanwhile, gunshots were continued to be heard. We prayed hard. Each one of us was holding unto a verse of The Holy Qur’an, as we continued to hear our neighbors storming to and fro outside. However, we were one of those who did not evacuate right away because my aunt’s husband, who was a military man, called, telling us they were in control of the situation. Hearing this from him, we calmed down and stayed. As the sun rose that day, gunshots became less audible. “It was over,” we thought. I and my cousins that time were all casually lying down [on] my aunt’s bed. We were chatting and giggling around like nothing serious was happening. We even made fun of those who panicked and left the place at once, wasting much effort. But then, perpetual knocks were heard from the other side of the door, making all of us jump. I opened it anxiously and my aunt burst in and told us that we were leaving the area and we were only given until 3 o’clock that afternoon or else the case would be worse. My heart sank and I felt a sudden sickening flurry of emotion. Our lives are at risk again? Wait. Oh, no. Ama! We hurriedly rose up from [the] bed and went out of the room to prepare. I excused myself and dashed back to our house to tell Ama the news. When I got there, I just blurted everything out. But he told me he refused to come. WHAT?! Everyone was in alarm yet he was completely calm. Has he gone mad? When I asked why, he just told me some of the men in the neighborhood were also staying. They all believed this will not last long. My aunt came too, trying but failing to convince Ama to leave with us. Admitting defeat, she just told him to take care. Ama kissed me and my brother goodbye before we reluctantly left with our aunt. “Yes, this will not last long. Ama will be okay. He will. I know he will,” I repeated to myself, hoping each word would [be deemed] true. I wanted to cry. If earlier I was not taking things seriously, that moment I was thinking, “What if I’ll never see Ama again? That could be the last time.” Call me exaggerating, but I could not help myself what with these gunshots all over the place. My aunt called our attention and hurried us. My brother and I rushed to her and saw our cousins already at the gate, ready to go. I glanced at my brother [who was] eyeing me expectantly. He made me realize that I have to stay strong. Gathering all the

strength I could muster, I grabbed our bags and left the area. Allah (SWT), I have faith in You. There were 10 of us in the group, including a neighbor’s baby who came with us. We passed through a narrow path I have never been to and wound up to one of the streets of Sta. Catalina. There we waited for a jeepney to take us to our destination, my aunt’s brother’s house in Suterville. Of the vehicles that passed by, most were full and others that [sic] [refused] to stop. Left with no choice, we continued our painstaking walk until we reached a supermarket where a partly-full jeepney passed by. My aunt signaled the driver to stop the vehicle and asked him if he could take us to our destination. There was a short discussion, but finally he agreed. We squeezed ourselves among the other passengers. We were already so tired but we still have to endure the apprehensive journey ahead. Everyone was watchful, suspecting danger to jump from anywhere. Finally, we reached our uncle’s house. They welcomed us with hospitality and let us stay there until the war is over. My body gave up and I fell restlessly asleep. The next day, a relative that stayed behind like Ama came to the house. Along with her was her mother and nephews. They evacuated the area at dawn because they cannot stand the exchange of gunshots any longer. According to them, the MNLF were already just hovering outside the houses. She also told us that Ama was okay, but if he stays longer, he could starve. How I wish he would just leave that place. He was really worrisome! It might feel good to be far away from danger, but the thought of my father left in the warzone horrified me. Even if the MNLF considers not harming him for they are brothers in Islam, his life is still in jeopardy nonetheless. Ina, who was in Jolo, was panicking more than anyone. Ama did not even have any cellphone or even if he had, the electricity there was cut, and so there were no means of communicating with him. It only made us fear and worry for the worst. Try as we may, we cannot be our usual selves because we do not know how he is doing. We were desperately praying each day that he continues to be safe and well. Fortunately, Allah (SWT) heard my prayers and on the fourth day, Ama, together with a neighbor, came knocking on the door. He was safe! Alhamdulillah! I was thankful beyond comprehension. I am so relieved we still have Ama in our lives. The elders accommodated him and had a chat about life there – how

he had seen [some] MNLFs in person, firing their guns just outside the house; how he felt like all the gunshots were shot right beside him; and how he had seen [the] fire start raging, burning everything in its path. After hearing all of that, I was quietly grateful. We were so close to not seeing each other again. Thank God that did not happen. There were three families staying at our uncle’s, for a total of 13 of us evacuees. If we include our uncle’s family, there would be 19 of us. Indeed it was tight, but at least we have a safe place to stay. We continued to listen to the radio and watch TV for [the] latest [updates]. I was overwhelmed with sadness when they featured the destruction of our barangay. Still, I was glad we did not have to witness it first-hand. After all my family have been through, no matter how dreadful they were, I dearly thank the Almighty for keeping Ama and all of us safe. Safrina’s family currently rents a small room in Baliwasan Grande. Their house is now just ruins and ashes, like all of Sta. Barbara. The windows were shattered into pieces, the roof looked like cheese with all the holes caused from stray bullets, and the still-standing walls were covered in blood. Everything they had was gone, stolen perhaps. Since their only means of living was a sari-sari store in Sta. Barbara, they now rely on the scarce food supply from the barangay hall, patiently waiting in line for about three to five times a week with the other hundreds of people who were also victims of the crisis. Fortunately, Safrina is a scholar in this university. Her education can continue but unfortunately, her brother’s suffers. His previous school was in Sta. Barbara, so for now he sits in class in another school from time to time. Yet without any source of livelihood, their parents have a hard time supporting him. Per the request of the interviewee, her real name is not disclosed in this article and instead, the name “Safrina” is used. Furthermore, the photos used for this article are pictures of Barangay Sta. Catalina and not of Sta. Barbara.

Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 13

words by Loren Marie Justo

. . . t h e probable rating for the government would have been a failing mark.

14 | the beacon newsmagazine

The Zamboanga Crisis has gone down in history as the longest and most destructive siege that the city has experienced to date. Sadly, this was not the first time that this kind of thing had happened and doubtlessly, might not be the last. Thus, there is a need to assess the actions that were taken by the local and national government in response to the conflict so that cases that might occur in the future such as this could be dealt in a more effective and efficient manner. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Did they do the right thing? Who should be blamed? Could have they done more? Was there another and better way to end the crisis?â&#x20AC;? These are questions that should be answered to determine why it had to take twenty days before the crisis was resolved, in which in that duration numerous lives were sacrificed.

What did they do now? In response to the worsening situation of the conflict between the Misuari Faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Philippine military forces, Secretaries Manuel “Mar” Roxas and Voltaire Gazmin arrived in the city and took command of all endeavours aimed to solving the crisis. The main strategy that was done to resolve the crisis was through peace talks and negotiations with the MNLF-Misuari Faction that led to a three-day standoff. Meanwhile, Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman headed the relief operations for the evacuees that numbered to around more than a thousand that were scattered in various evacuation centres in the city. President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino also dropped by to evaluate the situation. On September 12, the fourth day of the crisis, the government issued an ultimatum for the MNLF-Misuari Faction. On September 13, Vice President Jejomar Binay claimed that there was a ceasefire however, Secretaries Roxas and Gazmin and the local government denied that such a thing happened. On September 16, the military finally started to take offensive measures against the MNLF-Misuari Faction. And what marked the 20th day of the crisis, September 28, Secretary Roxas finally declared that the crisis was over. What did they do then? Almost everyone in the city compares the recent incident with the 2001 Cabatangan Crisis. The Cabatangan Crisis that occurred last November 27, 2001 was resolved overnight. The Cabatangan Crisis followed a similar pattern as to the recent Zamboanga Crisis – the rebel group took hostages and used them as human shields. In fact, the rebel group responsible for the Cabatangan Crisis were the same perpetrators behind the current crisis. Indeed, the 2001 crisis was resolved faster and had a lesser casualty count compared to the current Zamboanga Crisis. But during the Cabatangan siege, the perpetrators were able to escape and were not really charged for their crimes. That caused the citizens then to fear that one day they might return. Ironically enough, they did, just this September 2013, albeit it could be different factions behind both crises. What they should have done? A lot says that the crisis could have ended by day five if the government had just used the same strategy employed twelve years ago known as the “Cabatangan Formula” by the previous Arroyo administration, which accordingly led the victory against the perpetrators. The Cabatangan Formula was about listening and giving in to the demands of the MNLF and letting them off the hook, to the point of escorting them back to their homes. This tactic might have save lives but does not remove the imminent fear that the suspects are at large. It is also a grave injustice on the part of the victims, both the hostages that were taken and used as human shields and the city in where the crisis took place.

If there would have been a grading system on how the government handled the Zamboanga Crisis, specifically on a national level, the probable rating for the government would have been a failing mark. Firstly, because it took the government a relatively long time to resolve the crisis. Compared to how other governments would have handled a similar situation, the normal time frame allotted to a crisis on this scale should have only been from a minimum of a few hours to a maximum of a week, whether by proper peace negotiations or by conducting an efficient strike against the opposing party. Secondly, the casualty count is too great in comparison to the level of the crisis. Thirdly, there were unnecessary involvements of politicians who instead of solving the problem, made the situation more confusing because of the different claims issued. Others also believed that the military should have just used force since day one and in three days it would have been over. However, hostages were used as human shields and the government still has the foremost responsibility of assuring that these people are safe. Others say that we should have just respected the peace talks done and let them go back to their homes. But, the fact remains that the rebels were the first ones to violate the peace treaty which was still in effect since 1996. Furthermore, letting them run off without any charges would only send the message that the government would tolerate these kinds of actions thus, increasing the chances that similar occurrences could happen again in the future. The good thing for the government right now is that they have shown to us that they will no longer tolerate such acts of violence and are determined that justice be served for the victims of these crimes. There may have been flaws on the government’s part in their treatment of the situation, but regardless of such, they have emerged victorious in the end. The government did an average job of handling the crisis. Some may say it borderlines below average, but the most important matter is that there are a lot of room for improvement. Thus, they still shoulder the burden of being responsible for why the Zamboanga Crisis occurred in the first place. That is to say, the current Aquino administration still lacks the proper momentum and ability to execute the tactics and measures in place for such situations compared to other governments and former administrations. It is good that majority of the culprits were caught. But, as long as there is no final settlement in the peace process with the rebel groups of the Philippines and as long as politicians are still generally a selfish breed and would act only when it would benefit them, then there is still no assurance that a crisis like this will never happen again in the future. So, beware. Photo retrieved from http://okok1111111111.blogspot.com/2013/10/bloody-philippinesiege-brought-to-end.html

Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 15

Pictures of Malik’s dead body were shared in the internet yet all of these are said to be merely hoaxes

words by Neilson Nick Alinsañgan

The date was September 9, 2013. Everyone in Zamboanga City was going about their daily lives, fast asleep under the starry sky, without any hint of the impending fate that would befall them. The time was around 4:30 AM. A host of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) entered the city, all armed and fearing nothing, determined to fulfill a certain mission given to them, even to the point of taking up innocent civilians as hostages that they callously used as human shields in a cause that was once seen just but now will never justify the atrocious crimes done to the Zamboangeños. For three weeks, this rebel group kept on fighting, vexing government troops and locals and causing the city to come to a standstill. Everyone must have heard of this tale over and over again. It has been too familiar, forever etched in the minds and hearts of every Zamboangeño. And although the tragic tale might have been declared over as to the conflict, there are still a few issues that have yet to be resolved, particularly on the question of where is Commander Habier Malik now? Aside from MNLF Chairman and the leader of the breakaway faction of the MNLF that was responsible for the Zamboanga Crisis, Nur Misuari, Commander Malik also earned a sort of celebrity status during the Zamboanga siege. Both of them enjoying the celebrity phenomenon of having a barrage of death threats sent their way from loyal fans of the city. More so, both deserved the ire of Zamboangeños everywhere as it was said that Misuari was the brain and Malik was the brawn. In fact, Malik was here in the city, in the front lines of the battle, supposedly trapped as the military troops surrounded the rebel group in an attempt to capture all of the perpetrators so that justice may be served. And despite all of this, Malik was able to slip away from their grasp, location currently unknown. It was reported that Commander Malik sustained a wound on his hand during an exchange of fire in Barangay Sta. Catalina. Though wounded, he continued fighting and refused to give up. This information was relayed by the released hostages, as the government troops failed to notice that such an occurrence happened. It was Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) acting Public Affairs Chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc that said that “The report about Malik sustaining a wound came from the revelations of one of his former colleagues and the hostages. None of our soldiers saw it.”

16 | the beacon newsmagazine

Towards the end of the crisis, there have been several reports regarding the whereabouts of the elusive commander. One report says that an identification card belonging to Malik was found in the body of a dead rebel during the clearing operations. The body had similarities with Malik but still, not a valid proof that Malik is dead. Later, the government announced that the slain rebel bearing Malik’s ID was not Malik after all. “Napagalaman natin sa mga taong may hawak ng ID na hindi po siya si Habier Malik,” (We learned from the people holding custody of the ID that it was not Habier Malik) said Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Director General Alan Purisima. In addition to that, a separate unconfirmed report states that the body was of Malik’s aide, who also kept his international driver’s license and temporary resident’s certificate in Saudi Arabia. Pictures of Malik’s dead body were shared in the internet yet all of these are said to be merely hoaxes. There were also text messages, arguably the number one source of confusion during the crisis, declaring that Malik was already dead. Yet, these were never backed by credible evidences. Like Cabunoc said, “… we cannot categorically say that he is dead unless there is proof.” It was also reported that a wounded Malik managed to slip through the surrounding military lines during the conflict and fled to Kanmindos Village in Luuk Town, Sulu Province. But former Rep. Munir Arbison, also the brother of Luuk Mayor Allayon, said that Malik is not in Luuk. Accordingly, Malik is his and his family’s enemy as Malik apparently perpetuated an attack on their town during the May midterm elections. “Never will we help an enemy who killed many of our followers,” Arbison stated fervently. As of October 9, Misuari and Malik were issued arrest warrants for rebellion and crimes against the International Humanitarian Law. Despite charges against them, Misuari and Malik refuse to surrender. “I don’t think he [Misuari] is going to surrender because ang mga rebolusyonaryo po ay hindi nila ugali ‘yung mag-aklas pagkatapos [ay] mag-surrender. Malimit po tatapusin nila ‘yung kanilang balak,” shared Reverend Absalom Cerveza, MNLF-Misuari Faction Spokesman, during an interview in GMA Network’s morning television show, Unang Hirit, that was aired last October 10. Cerveza said that Misuari told him that “Wala akong magawa kung ano ang gustong gawin ng gobyerno. Gagawin ko rin kung ano ‘yung kaya kong gawin.” As to the issue of where commander Malik is, Cerveza shared that “Yes, he’s [very] much alive,” explaining that the commander fled from Zamboanga City. “Wala na... He’s in some place na hindi natin pwede sabihin,” he further added. Accordingly, they last spoke four days before the interview.

However, Justice Secretary Leila De Lima believes that the probability that Malik is among the dead is high since the MNLF failed to provide evidence that he is alive. But despite this belief, De Lima still included Malik’s name in those that will be charged for the crimes done during the Zamboanga Crisis since there is also no existing evidence that proves his death. Even AFP Chief Emmanuel Bautista said that the AFP “have not confirmed any… anything is [therefore] possible.” Moreover, Bautista shared that “We will not know for sure until we see. Nothing is still conclusive… We have not seen Malik so we cannot categorically say that he is dead or alive. But anyway his force has been decimated in Zamboanga. You have been witness to that. And our primary mission there was to rescue the hostages. And we did.” With all these claims and theories surrounding the issue of Malik’s existence or inexistence, there is one thing that we can be sure about and that is the fact that the different information regarding Malik’s whereabouts are hard to confirm since they are coming from second and third hand sources. In the end, while the whereabouts of Malik have still to be answered, the government has reason to believe that the mastermind behind the crisis, Misuari, is still in the Philippines. This is based on intelligence reports. And when asked why the government is taking its time in arresting the MNLF Chairperson, AFP Western Mindanao Command Spokesperson Maj. Franco Alano merely stated that the police are planning a “calibrated approach” on this matter. The crisis was a major blow to the city as properties and lives were sacrificed, amounting to a great number of people affected in various manners not counting more than 200 deaths from soldiers, rebels, and civilians alike, the displacement of more than 100,000 people, a slowdown in economic activity, barangays being burned down, and a million people’s heartaches. Because of all of these, the government has now raised the bounties for the capture or information leading to the capture of the troublesome duo, Misuari and Malik, as the game continues – hide and go seek.

Photos retrieved from http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/500727/afp-chief-malik-remains-missing and http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/photo/45641/govt-forces-continue-hunt-for-elusive-malik. Zamboanga Crisis Issue 2013 | 17

The Blue Eagle of the

Ateneo de Zamboanga words by Salvador Wee, SJ photo from Google Images The mascot of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University is the blue eagle, with wings extended for its flight to greater heights. Fr. Eusebio Salvador SJ, second founder of AdZU, said that we adopted the blue eagle as school mascot ahead of the Ateneo de Manila. The Ateneo name, true or not, means quality education. It also connotes pride, prestige and glory. Unintended but still the case, the name also connotes a kind of snobbish elitism. Recent Jesuit education documents have returned to the richness of Christian spirituality found in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. One key theme is the meditation on the Two Standards. According to Ignatius, there are two camps, armies or ways of approaching the world, following two leaders and their respective standards or flags. One is the enemy, whose strategy for conquest is this way: “The first step is through the attainment of riches. This is used to get the esteem of others, and this will eventually lead to pride. Riches, honor and pride, the usual pattern of evil in the lives of people. These turn into a sense of self-sufficiency or pride, by which a person comes to exist only for one’s self. From this state of false independence or self-reliance come all other disorders.” The other approach or strategy is the one used by Jesus during his lifetime. Instead of riches, honor and pride, Jesus used humble poverty and selfless service as his principle in life. The first standard is a worldly one and focuses on self-glorification. The second one 18 | the beacon newsmagazine

is more spiritual and is achieved by selflessness. The magis or more of Ignatius is greater generosity and self-denial, in order to serve others more. Jesus showed this in his own life and teaching, when he said that the greatest love one can have is to offer one’s life for others. Comparing these two approaches and examining the usual Ateneo lifestyle, it seems that most do not know or pay attention to this spiritual standard. Some say that most follow the first standard. If so, what spirit is there in the life of the Ateneo and its graduates? What are our primary concerns? What do we absolutize or prioritize about everything? Where do we find our soul or our center? Whatever this is, this becomes what we worship, adore or idolize. This becomes, de facto, our god. Someone said that Ateneans worship the Ateneo, not God, while others think SJ means Society of Jesuits, not Society of Jesus. The Second Plenary Council of the Philippines in their document on Catholic educational institutions said: “Many of the graduates of our schools seem to look at Catholic education simply as a passport to better opportunities for earning a living, rather than as a grace to live better human and Christian lives, entailing a serious responsibility to build a better world. Many graduates of Catholic schools have been successful economically and politically, but they have also contributed to the dismal economic and political imbalances existing in our country... Many affluent Filipinos have a cultural fixation towards elitism in education. Such elitism not only waters down education to a status symbol, but tends to produce in wellto-do students not only a feeling that they are a people apart, but also a misguided priority that education is merely a tool to gain privileges and advance one’s social class. Because high standards of education require high financial support, Catholic schools may find it impossible to express the Christian love or preference for the poor...” Soaring eagles should not only aim at heights of wealth, power and prestige. Based on the Two Standards of St. Ignatius, true Ateneans must aim at selfless service to others, following the footsteps of Jesus the Lord. God’s flight plan for flying eagles is compassion for the least of our brothers and sisters. It is to do unto others what God does to us. The bible exhorts us to experience God through our concern for others and the world around us, by curbing our self-interest and greed so that others might live more fully. There is a story of a farmer who found an eagle’s egg. He brought it home and had it hatched together with the chicken eggs. The eaglet grew up with the chickens and like all chickens, it never flew in the sky and it spent all its life pecking on the ground, like other chickens. There are true Ateneans and there are false Ateneans. Some are real Ateneans in spirit and in truth. Many others are false Ateneans only in name and in selfish pride. They crow noisily. Perhaps they are really crows or chickens masquerading as eagles. A newspaper columnist has written about the difference between blue eagles and blue vultures. How tragic it would be for blue eagles to follow a wrong flight plan and end up in the opposite direction. The school motto is PRO DEO ET PATRIA – for God and country. If we are to return to the original source of the Ateneo spirit, we must take St. Ignatius’ Two Standards seriously. The essence of the Ateneo spirit is greater and more humble service to others. This is the true flight of the Ateneo blue eagle.

(based on the song “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” by Andrew Lloyd Webber) words by Salvador Wee, SJ

It won’t be easy, you’ll think it strange When I try to explain how I feel That I still need to stay after all that we have. You won’t believe me All you will see is someone who won’t go Despite fear and death any time Affecting both young and the old. We cannot let this happen, it has to change Afraid, uncertain all our days Looking out of the window, staying in out of fear. So we want freedom Running around. Seeking justice and peace When nothing seems coming at all Our voices should always be heard. Chorus: Don’t cry for me, my Zamboanga The truth is I have not left you All through these wild days, of crime and killings I kept my promise, don’t be so silent. And as for caring, and as for hope I never invited them in Though it seemed to the world they’re all we desire. They’re not illusions They should be the solutions we all need to find The answer was here all the time I trust you and pray you respond. [Chorus] Have I said too much? There’s nothing more I can think of to say to you. But all you have to do is look at me to know That every word is true.

In memory of † Justine Raphael Wee, BSN 2011 March 16, 1991 – June 22, 2013