DOLE celebrates 'Araw ng mga Kasambahay' in Davao
DAR to distribute new lands to farmers in Western Mindanao
PAGE 2
PAGE 3
Founded 2006
Palace denies caging street kids PAGE 4
mindanaoexaminer.com
2015 Calendar Inside
Rebels free captured jail warden
PAGE 5
FOR ADVERTISEMENTS, PLEASE CALL (062) 9925480
MALUNGGAY: The “Miracle” Gulay
PAGE 6
PAGE 7
P10 Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
MUSLIMS PROTEST ATTACKS ON ISLAM
T
housands of Muslims in the Philippines protested what they described as double standard practices of the Western media against Islam. Just recently, a huge group of Muslims held a rally in Marawi City dubbed as “no apology march” that coincided with the global condemnation of the Charlie Hebdo attack by two French brothers. The attack killed a dozen journalists working for the satirical weekly magazine, including several civilians and a policeman. The attack was triggered by the satirical and profanity against the Prophet Muhammad also
drew widespread condemnation from Muslims and non-Muslims around the world. Omar-Ali Mangondato Sharief, the event’s lead organizer of the rally in Marawi said the march was not to sow hatred, but to assert the rights and educate non-Muslims about Islam, and also as a respond to its misconceptions. “We also appeal to the world humanity to address the root cause of this issue which is religious intolerance and the lack of respect to religions,” he said. The marchers were also angered by the recent pronouncement by Charlie Hebdo that it would feature Prophet Muhammad in their new edition after the
January 7 attack. “This is ridiculous. They never learned from that incident and this could further infuriate the almost 2 billion devout Muslims around the world,” said student Muhammad Nurkhan, who joined the protest. Agakhan Sharief, chairman of the Bangsamoro National Movement for Peace and Development, explained that for them, the Issue is not only on freedom of expression, but on the violations of the Islamic teaching. He said Charlie Hebdo did not only commit blasphemy, but idolatry and pornography as well, in their cartoon depictions of Prophet Muhammad. Continue to page 7
Muslims in the Philippines protest defamation and profanity against Islam. See other photos inside. (Photos by Najib Zacaria and Mark Navales.)
Grand Mufti visits Sulu province
M
A ‘Gift of Hope’ to Pope Francis
M
uslims in southern Philipp i n e s h ave sent a brass gong to Pope Francis, who recently visited country. The gong, which is also called “agong,” was shipped last week all the way from Mindanao, in time for the Pontiff ’s outdoor mass at the Quirino Grandstand near the Rizal Park in Manila. Raisonel Datu Magangcong, presi-
ARMM
dent of the Alliance of Recruitment Agencies of the Philippines-OFW Foundation, who was the brainchild behind the “gift of hope to the Pope,” said the gong is a gesture of gratitude and high respect for the Pontiff and his undying love for Muslims and Christians, and tribal groups in the country. He also praised Pope Francis for his concern and support to peace efforts in Mindanao. Continue to page 7
uslim religious leaders led by Grand Mufti, His E minence Abdulbaqi Abubakar, recently visited the southern Philippine province of Sulu and met with Govenor Totoh Tan. Governor Tan, who is also the chairman of the Sulu Area Coordinating Council, discussed with the Grand Mufti various issues. Several leaders of other faiths and faith-based organizations have also met in many instances with the Governor, mainly to discuss not about differences, but common grounds in furtherance of better living for all constituents in Sulu Archipelago and its neighboring communities. Governor Tan is a strong peace advocate and believer that diversity should not be source of great divide among fellow men and women of goodwill, but an avenue towards communal dynamism in improving societal conditions. He said nobody should be sidelined because one is different, adding despite mixture of preferences and orientations for betterment by constituents, respect and relationship must be intact. Religious leaders also held their gathering in Sulu. Among those who attended
Southern Mindanao
Davao
Governor Totoh Tan speaks to Muslim religious leaders led by Grand Mufti, His Eminence Abdulbaqi Abubakar, who visited the Sulu province recently. (Photo by Franzie Sali) Just last month, Govthe gathering of Imam, Hashimite Kingdom of JorUlama, Khatib in the prov- dan); Ustadz Ahmad ernor Tan also held the 2nd ince were Ustadz Sharif Jul- Manonas, Director, Ma'had Special Regional Peace Asiri Abirin, Mufti of Sulu Munawwarah in Davao City and Order Council Meet(Madinah Al- (Kulliyatud Da'wah, Libya); ing for Basilan, Sulu and Munawwarah); Ustadz Ustadz Said Amin, coordi- Tawi-Tawi here. The reMohd. Suwaib Abedin, nator, Alfarouq Islamic In- gional leadership presided Mufti of Socsargen stitute, Palawan (Madina over the meeting where (Madinah Al- Graduate); Shariff Mohsen some important issues and Munawwarah); Ustadz Julabbi, Al-Azhar University concerns were tackled. Also in December, a Abdulrafih Sayedy, Grand Graduate (among the pioImam, Blue Mosque and neers); Ustadz Yahiya dialogue between the miliCultural Center, MM Mohammad, adviser of tary officials and ulama Mohtadeen was also held at the (Azhar), former Dean, Is- Sabilal Al- Sumadja Hall at the Prolamic Study, U.P.; Ustadz (Madinah Said Ahmad Basher, chair- Munawwarah); Sukarno vincial Capitol. The event man of the Imam Council of Ikbala, president of was organized and faciliby Western the Philippines (Al-Azhar); ESPERANZA Group; Atty. tated Ustadz Ahmad Barcelon, Meltino Sibulan, human Mindanao Command and head, Balik Islam Group; rights advocate; and Profes- concurred by the Sulu Ustadz Abbas (SABIR) sor Nurhassan Danial, Ulama Council for Peace Omar, Holy Qur'an Islamic (ZamBaSulta Muslim Youth and Development. Continue to page 7 Center (Islamic University, Leader).
Western Mindanao
Cebu
Manila
2
The Mindanao Examiner
Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
Cebu students, abandoned kids get Lion's help CEBU - More than a hundred public school students and abandoned kids benefited from eye refraction, feeding and empowerment activities conducted by the Cebu Lumad Lions Club (Lumads) in the cities of Mandaue and Cebu. In line with the celebration of “Melvin Jones Week,” the Lumads chose three elementary schools in Mandaue City to conduct free eye check-up or refraction. Gaille Dejoras, project chairman for Sight for Kids, said Jones was the founder of Lions Club International and the compassion to those who are visually impaired leads the values of the club. The project Sight for Kids chose students from Subangdaku, IbabaEstancia and Maguikay Elementary Schools. Volunteer optometrists Dr. Myla Venturillo refracted 80 students in all schools and would have done more if not for time constraints. She said it is a good thing
that there are private organizations that are taking time to take care of the issue on poor eyesight among school children. Venturillo signed the prescription for eyeglasses for the school kids which the Lions Club will provide. Unfortunately, some parents fail to recognize that their children have vision issues since childbirth or early years. Early treatment and management could have prevented it. Ryan Solon, a Lumad member, said having assisted in the conduct of the project makes one think as a parent to make sure all necessary nutrients for growth and development are provided to children. Based on the interactions he had with the school children', he said the parents were not able to have the children's eyes checked due to financial constraints. He also learned that other than nutrition deficiencies, the unregulated use of gadgets such as cellular
phones, tablets, computers and even watching television instigate eyesight problems. The “Youngsters Project - aYouth Empowerment” activity for a hundred children at the SOS Village in Cebu City was also held. Rose Diaz, project chairman, said some 100 abandoned and fostered children at the SOS Village were fed and also underwent an empowerment session. “We get to learn who they are, their dreams, aspirations and taught them tips on how to balance life and reach these dreams,” Diaz said. Cebu Lumad Lions have in lined for this year, several activities with the public sector for various services benefiting children, women and others. Melvin Jones week is celebrated every January commemorating the birthday of Jones - January 13, 1879. The Lions adapted Jones code of service, “"You can't get very far until you start doing something for somebody else.” (RMN, FCC)
DOLE celebrates 'Araw ng mga Kasambahay' in Davao THE HISTORIC law protecting the rights of domestic workers celebrated its second anniversary in an informative, fun-filled and youthful joy among working students. Dubbed as the 2nd Araw ng mga Kasambahay,” the Department of Labor and Employment in Davao region led the celebration in partnership with the Sunday High School Education Program of the Assumption College of Davao. Joffrey Suyao, DOLE regional director, said they are throwing full support to Batas Kasambahay by further strengthening the information dissemination about the rights and duties of employers and workers as well as their (kasamabahay) protection from harmful or hazardous working environment. “We are one in promoting the welfare and protection of our domestic workers,” Suyao said. President Benigno Aquino III signed on January 18, 2013, Republic Act 10361 otherwise known as the Domestic Workers Act more popularly known as “Batas Kasambahay” instituting the policies for the protection and welfare of the domestic workers. “The DOLE makes sure that through this landmark law of the Aquino administration, domestic workers are provided safe, decent and humane working conditions,” Suyao said. This year’s celebration, the DOLE focused on disseminating information and advocacy campaign on Occupation safety and
Western Mindanao Command hands out medal, awards to personnel LIEUTENANT General Rustico Guerrero, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, hands over the Special Awards to the 7 top performers of the Physical Fitness Test for 2nd Semester of 2014. And Major Benjamin Pajarito, of the Philippine Army, also receives the Military Merit Medal for his “meritorious and valuable service rendered” as Deputy and Branch Chief of Administrative and Reserve Force, Office of the Assistant Chief
of Unified Command Staff for Operations from July 3, 2011 to January 16, 2015. The Western Mindanao Command also awards Zamboanga City Rep. Lilia Nuño the “AFP Bayanihan Award 2014” for her “invaluable services and support to the Bayanihan Team Activity in the conduct of medical and dental outreach to the less fortunate people in the east coast area of Zamboanga City.” Same award was also
handed to Datu Zamsamin Ampatuan, Mayor of Rajah Buayan town in, Maguindanao province by the 6th Infantry Division under Major General Edmundo Pangilinan for his “significant contributions to the 45th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army in the implementation of the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan,” among others. (Mindanao Examiner)
Office Space For Rent Students working as 'kasambahay' actively participate in the DOLE discussion during the 2nd Araw ng mga Kasambahay Celebration at the Assumption College of Davao recently. (Photo by Sherwin Manual) health of domestic workers. Engineer Henjie Gatdula, of DOLE's Davao City Field Office, discussed Occupational Safety and Health tips to close to 200 participants who actively participated in the forum and fun games and surprises which highlighted the celebration. “Sometimes, we may not be aware that while we are working in inside the house we are already exposed to hazards, say exposure to chemicals, improper body positions and the like which seem trivial yet atual has great impact on our health and safety,” Gatdula said. During the celebration, DILG representative MikaChan Magtulis was also present. Under the law, DILG is the lead agency mandated to register the domestic workers in every barangay. According to DILG’s record, there is a very low number of recorded kasamabahays in the region. “We are urging the barangay local government units to advocate in their re-
spective jurisdiction the registration of kasamabahay for the protection of both employer and worker,” Magtulis said. Kasambahay law covers general household helpers including yayas, cooks, gardeners, laundry persons and helpers hired on a liveout arrangement. However, family drivers and individuals who perform occasional and sporadic work and not on an occupational and regular basis are not covered. The law said that a kasambahay who has rendered service for one month is eligible for 13th month pay, SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG benefits. “Aside from the social protection benefits, the law has also standardized the minimum wage of P2,500 for Metro Manila, P2,000 for cities and 1st class municipalities and P1,500 for other municipalities; daily rest period of 8 total hours, weekly rest period of 24 uninterrupted hours, five days annual service incentive leave with pay,” Suyao said. (Sherwin Manual)
SUPPORT PEACE IN MINDANAO
Right in downtown Zamboanga City For more inquiries Call: 0929-2189937 DO Y OU WANT T O YOU TO HA VE Y OUR O WN NEWSLETTER? HAVE YOUR OWN Are you in a corporation, a company, a club or organization, a school or institution, church or religious group, in government or cooperative? Make your own NEWSLETTER now! Why send your press releases when you can have your own NEWSLETTER just like this NEWSPAPER? No more expensive magazines as your quarterly or monthly NEWSLETTER when you can have a cheaper alternative just like this NEWSPAPER! Mindanao Examiner Productions of fer NEWSLETTER printing at a very low price. And it comes with FREE LAYOUT and we can even make a digital copy of your NEWSLETTER also for FREE! We will also assist you in editing your articles for FREE! For inquiry, call us now at (062) 992-5480 or 0917-7103642 or email us at mindanaoexaminer@gmail.com
The Mindanao Examiner
Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
DAR to distribute new lands to farmers in Western Mindanao ZAMBOANGA CITY – At least 100 hectares of new lands are expected to be distributed to qualified farmers who are beneficiaries of the government’s agrarian reform program in Western Mindanao region, the Department of Agrarian Reform said. S o c o r r o Reambonanza, a spokeswoman for the DAR in Western Mindanao, said the distribution of the lands is in line with the agency's program. The DAR is in the forefront of the Aquino administration’s efforts to provide lands to the farmer-beneficiaries of the agrarian reform program. She said the DARWestern Mindanao or Region 9 has recently held a
two-day expanded Management Committee (MANCOM) meeting at the Lantaka Hotel in Zamboanga City. “The MANCOM is a regular activity of the DAR that aims to assess program accomplishments; discuss and resolve problems, issues and concerns; and formulate plans and strategies to facilitate the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program,” Reambonanza told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner. She said among the top DAR officials who attended the MANCOM were Regional Directress Julita Ragandang and her Assistant Directors Engineer Agnes Maata and lawyer
Ramon Madronal, including Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officers from Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay, and division chiefs, and other technical staff. Just recently, the DAR also held a national workshop wherein organizational directives, programs, events, and activities for 2015 were discussed, according to Reambonanza. “These directives and programs will have to be cascaded during the MANCOM to all provinces to ensure unity of direction and synchronization of plans and strategies for the attainment of plans and targets,” she said. (Mindanao Examiner)
Radio commentator Alberto Martinez signs off
KIDAPAWAN CITY: Radio commentator Alberto Martinez, who survived an assassination attempt nearly a decade ago, but was paralyzed from the waist down, passed away on January 15,
2015 without seeing justice. Martinez is shown here talking to journalists when he was still alive at his safe house in Mindanao. Martinez needed to hide to protect his life following the
2005 assassination attempt. Martinez filed criminal charges against three people, one of them a government soldier, in connection to the failed assassination. (Photos by Geonarri Solmerano)
3
4
The Mindanao Examiner
DEED OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH SALE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: This DEED OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH SALE is made, executed and entered into by: ABDULNASIR NASIRIN ANTAO, of legal age, married, Filipino, and with residence and postal address at Km. 2, Indanan, Sulu, Philippines, hereinafter referred to as the HEIR-VENDOR. -ANDPRISCILLA LIM UNDUG, of legal age, Filipino, married to ROCKEFELLER UNDUG and with residence and postal address at Kasanyanga Village, Jolo, Sulu, hereinafter referred to as the VENDEE. WITNESSETH; WHEREAS, the HEIR-VENDOR is the legitimate and sole heir of the late NASIRIN IMAM HABBISI who died on November 19, 1959 at Maimbung, Sulu; WHEREAS, said NASIRIN IMAM HABBISI died intestate and at that the time of his death, he left no will nor debt; WHEREAS, said NASIRIN IMAM HABBISI, at the time of his death, left a certain parcel of land (Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-960) with improvement thereon, situated in the Municipal District of Maimbung, Province of Sulu, and more particularly described as follows, to wit: “A parcel of land (Lot No. 2627 of the Cadastral Survey of Parang) with the improvements thereon, situated in the Municipal District of Maimbung. Bounded on the NE. by Lots Nos. 2874 and 2549; on the SE. and SW. by Lot No. 2549 and on the NW. by Lots Nos. 2549 and 2868. Beginning at a point marked “1” of plan, being S. 37 deg. 04’ W., 1050.05 m. from B.L.L.M. No. 7; thence N. 18 deg. 11’ E., 36.85 m. to point “2”; thence S. 88 deg. 06’ E., 160.0 m. to point “3”; thence S. 26 deg. 25’ E., 16.00 m. to point “4”; thence S. 23 deg. 51’ W., 30.95 m. to point “5”; thence S. 63 deg. 2-’ W., 121.41 m. to point 6; thence N. 77 deg. 11’ W., 94.08 m. to point “7”; thence N. 36 deg. 13’ E., 57.71 m. to the point of beginning; containing an area of FOURTEEN THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTEEN square meters (14,315), more or less. All points referred to are indicating of the plan; bearing true; declination 2 deg. 41’ E., date of survey, May 1915-December 1922.”
WHEREAS, it is to the best interest of the aforesaid HEIR-VENDOR who is of age and with full capacity to contract to extrajudicially settle the estate of the late NASIRIN IMAM HABBISI in the manner and form to be herein below setforth; NOW THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing premises and invoking the provision of Section 1, Rule 74 of the Revised Rules of Court, the aforesaid HEIR-VENDOR do hereby adjudicate unto himself, the described parcel of land and the improvements thereon. AND WITNESSETH FURTHER; That for and in consideration of the sum of FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND (500,000.00) PESOS, Philippine Currency, hand paid by the VENDEE to the HEIR-VENDOR and which are to the entire satisfaction of the latter, the HEIR-VENDOR by way of ABSOLUTE SALE do hereby SELL, CEDE, TRANSFER, and CONVEY unto the said VENDEE, her heirs and assigns, the above-described parcel of land together with all the improvements found thereon, free from all liens and encumbrances whatsoever.
Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
Blogger jailed 2 years for causing fear during Sabah’s Sulu intrusion A KOTA KINABALU Magistrate court has found blogger Yusuf al-Siddique Suratman – better known as Milosuam – guilty of causing fear among the public during the Sulu intrusion in Sabah last year, even as his lawyers protested against his trial which they said was unfair from the beginning, because he could not be represented by the counsel he wanted. Yusuf was sentenced to two years' jail, which is the maximum punishment, but has been granted a stay pending appeal. He was charged in June last year under Section 505 under the Penal Code, for causing fear among the people through a blog posting about measures undertaken by security forces during the incursion by armed Sulu men in Lahad Datu on
the eastern coast of Sabah, which has been vulnerable to kidnappings by militants in the southern Philippines. The blogger had published, on his blog (milosuam.blogspot.com), a document titled "Borang Utusan Polis" under the posting "Maklumat Sulit: Pendatang Asing Bakal Cetus Huru-Hara di Sabah". The posting was made on March 6, 2013 and Yusuf was detained in Kuala Lumpur 2 months later. Human rights group Lawyers for Liberty (LFL) highlighted that Yusuf was charged in Sabah despite the fact that he had written the article in Kuala Lumpur. "His trial in Kota Kinabalu was condemned as arbitrary and unnecessary," LFL said in a statement today.
LFL co-founder Eric Paulsen had previously lamented that Yusuf being charged in Kota Kinabalu meant that the group could not represent him in court. "Lawyers from the Peninsula are unable to appear before the courts in Sabah. This situation placed our client in a precarious position, forcing him to find new lawyers in Sabah," he had said last year. In February last year, about 200 armed followers of the Sulu sultanate came to Lahad Datu to revive the sultanate's claim to Malaysia’s easternmost state. The intrusion led to a standoff between the sultan’s followers and Malaysian authorities, leading to the death of 52 Filipinos and 8 Malaysian policemen. (The Malaysian Insider)
Anti-Sayaf operation launch in Basilan THE MILITARY said it has launched a fresh offensive against the Abu Sayaf in the restive province of Basilan in the Muslim autonomous region. It said just last week, at least 6 rebels were killed and many more wounded following fierce clashes in Sumisip town. Officials said two rebel camps were eventually overtaken by soldiers and that explosives had been recovered from the vilages of Baiwas and Pamatsaken. Sumisip, a known stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf, is the hometown of Mujiv Hataman, the regional governor.
Two of the slain rebels were identified as Yusop Sandatan and Usop Balaman. There were no military casualties. Marine Captain Maria Rowena Muyuela, a spokeswoman for the Western Mindanao Command, said the operations, which started January 21 were part of a new offensive aimed at crippling the Abu Sayyaf group blamed by authorities for the spate of terror attacks and kidnappings in the region. She said troops first clashed with the group of Abu Sayyaf sub-leaders Juhaibel Alamsirul, Radzmil Janatul and Pasil Bayali in
Sumisip’s Pamatsaken village and that sporadic clashes spread in Baiwas. In another report, Army Lieutenant Sally Christine Maria Magno, of the 1st Infantry Division, said the camps can accommodate about 100 rebels. “The Armed Forces of the Philippines together with the Philippine National Police and the local governments are continuously intensifying the conduct of law enforcement operations in order to defeat these lawless elements who continuously initiate atrocities in the province of Basilan and its neighboring areas,” she said. (Mindanao Examiner)
Palace denies caging street kids MANILA - The Philippines has denied international media reports that street children had been rounded up a by authorities to make Manila presentable for Pope Francis' visit recently. The Department of Social Welfare and Development said it conducted an investigation in Pasay Jail, Pasay Youth Home, and Pasay Police Station following reports of a United Kingdom tabloid and the South China Morning Post that there were street children who are being detained with adult criminals in an effort to clean the streets for the Papal visit. (See Street children detained to clear way for Pope Francis' Manila visit - SCMP http://
www.mindanaoexaminer.com/ news.php?news_id=20150116232139) Corazon Soliman, the DSWD Secretary, said the investigation yielded negative results. She said social workers even went inside jails and centers, but found nothing. In Paranaque City, which was also mentioned in the reports, about two dozen minors are in currently staying at the Bahay Pag-Asa, a rehabilitation for youth. “I would like to reiterate that we do not jail children. We jail abusers,” Soliman said. She said that a multiagency task force composed of DSWD, local governments and non-governmental organizations, including the police
conduct a weekly reach-out to street children and are taken into the local social welfare office where they are assessed, profiled, and provided with proper interventions such as feeding and temporary shelter. She also said that aside from the reach-out program, DSWD also implements the Comprehensive Program for Street Children which offers a package of services, that includes education for the children and livelihood for their parents, and the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer Program which gives them cash assistance for their school and health needs, as well as for house rental. (Mindanao Examiner)
Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
The Mindanao Examiner
5
6
The Mindanao Examiner
Rebels free captured jail warden DAVAO CITY – A Filipino jail warden held by communist rebels has been freed in the southern Philippines, but three other policemen are still in captivity and there is no sign of an imminent release unless security forces are pulled out from their enclaves in the restive region. Rubi del Mundo, a spokesman for the New People’s Army rebels, said Jose Coquilla was released for humanitarian and political reason in Compostela Valley. He was handed over to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and representatives from the Exodus for Justice and Peace. “The National Democratic Front of the Philippines Southern Mindanao releases today Jose Merven Coquilla…as a unilateral exercise of political authority, humanitarianism, and to help propel for the immediate resumption of the peace negotiations,” Del Mundo said. Coquilla, the provincial jail warden of Compostela Valley, was taken captive by rebels in Panabo City in December last year. He was accused of negligence in the supervision of inmates and his “direct and indirect, overt and covert participation of drug trade and drug use inside the Compostela Valley jail.” According to the complaints received by the NPA, the warden has allegedly siphoned off funds which are already slashed by high officials of the ruling state prison and that Coquilla’s corruption has resulted in the inadequate medical and health care and food provision for inmates. “The NDFP-SMR, however, suspended its judicial proceedings against Coquilla as a humanitarian act in response to the pleas of his family and representatives from the GPH and well-meaning individuals, and as a gesture of com-
passion and mercy—a message that is reverberating in the country with the recent visit of Pope Francis.” “The suspension of revolutionary judicial process over respondent Coquilla is also a unilateral exercise of political authority of the NDFP, as an act of goodwill for the immediate resumption of peace negotiations between the GPH and the NDFP. As such, the case of Coquilla is being archived,” Del Mundo said. He said Coquilla can be arrested again in case “the masses file new charges against him and if he is found to be unremorseful.” There was no immediate statement from prison or military and police officials about the release of Coquilla, but rebels are still holding PO3 Democrito Polvorosa, PO1 Marichel Contemplo and PO1 Junrie Amper. Communist rebels have demanded the immediate pull out of troops in Surigao province to allow the safe release of the prisoners. The rebels also asked Governor Sol Matugas to order the military to withdraw its forces so rebels can free the policemen. Matugas even wrote a letter to Brig. Gen. Jonathan Ponce, commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, and asked him to suspend the so-called Community Organizing for Peace and Development (COPD) program of the military to allow the NPA to free all three hostages. Ponce, in his reply to Matugas’ letter, said troops would not do anything that would put the lives of the policemen in jeopardy. He said he cannot withdraw troops in the province, but he ordered battalion commanders for the temporary suspension of Peace and Development Outreach Program and CommunityBased Peace and Development efforts to pave way for the immediate release of
the hostages. “In view of the said provisions, the demand of the NPA to pull out our troops conducting COPD and the conduct of checkpoints cannot be granted. I will not allow the total pull out of troops in the area.” “On the other hand, I ordered my battalion commanders for the temporary suspension of Peace and Development Outreach Program and CommunityBased Peace and Development efforts to pave way for the immediate release of the kidnapped victims,” Ponce said. He said security patrols is aimed to protect civilian communities, government establishments, investment facilities, and vital structures, including military camps, detachments, patrol bases, installations and outposts against armed groups. Ponce said the checkpoints also serve to prevent the illegal transport of weapons or explosives by civilians and rebel groups. The NPA - which is fighting for a separate state in the country - recently released Pvts. Marnel Cinches and Jerrel Yurong in Bukidnon province in northern Mindanao due to humanitarian reason following their capture in August last year in Impasugong town; and also Pfc. Alvin Ricarte and Cpl. Benjamin Samano in Compostela Valley province. Government peace talks with the NPA collapsed in 2004 after rebels accused then President Gloria Arroyo of reneging on several agreements, among them the release of all political prisoners in the country and the removal of the terrorist tag on the Communist Party of the Philippines and its political wing, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, and the NPA. Manila also suspended the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees after the peace talks failed. (Mindanao Examiner)
(Photos courtesy of Kilab Multimedia)
Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
Police arrest 3 brothers; yield weapons, explosives ingredients and drugs ZAMBOANGA CITY – Police arrested 3 brothers and seized weapons and components for homemade explosives, including illegal drugs during a sting operation in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines, officials said. Officials said the three men Khadaffy, Murshdi, and Abduraup Wahi were arrested in the village of Cawit. Policemen seized 55 pounds of ammonium nitrate, more than 100 blasting caps and concrete nails. Police are still investigating whether the three brothers have links with the Abu Sayyaf group, blamed by au-
Police interrogate arrested suspects Khadaffy, Murshdi, and Abduraup Wahi. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Ely Dumaboc) thorities for the spate of attacks and kidnappings in the
southern region. (Mindanao Examiner – Ely Dumaboc)
A ‘Gift of Hope’ to Pope Francis Continued fr om page 1 from “Muslims in southern Philippines sent the agong as their heartfelt expression of gratitude to the Pontiff's s support for the ongoing peace process, which has reached the crucial stage of legislative deliberation,” Magangcong said. Pope Francis, in his speech in Manila, said he trust that the government peace efforts in Mindanao will bring just solutions to all. “In a particular way, I express my trust that the progress made in bringing peace to the south of the country will result in just
7
The Mindanao Examiner
Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
solutions in accord with the nation’s founding principles and respectful of the inalienable rights of all, including the indigenous peoples and religious minorities,” the Pontiff said. It was also the second time that the Pontiff cited the Philippines’ peace efforts. Prior to leaving the Vatican City for his trip to Sri Lanka, the Pontiff addressed the diplomatic corps and noted the peace agreement between Manila and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as among the examples of dialogues used to bridge differences. “I note with pleasure ?that last
We are moving to film and television productions!
ALL RIGHTS FOR SALE Mindanao Examiner Newspaper Mindanao Examiner Television mindanaoexaminer.com (web contents, office inventory included)
Call: (062) 992 5480 The Mindanao Examiner
March an agreement was signed to end long years of tension in the Philippines,” Pope Francis said. The MILF also praised the Pope and thanked him for his support to the peace process in Mindanao.“There is nothing we can ask for from the highest personality of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, except to thank him for blessing the Bangsamoro peace process between the Government of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front.” “Thank you Pope. We know how much value and influence your simple words work with people who follow and listen to
MALUNGGAY: The “Miracle” Gulay Ni Dr. Willie T. Ong Alam ba ninyo na napakasustansya ng malunggay? Very healthy ang malunggay at madali lang itanim. Puwedeng ihalo sa sabaw, panggulay at gawing Tea. Tinuruan ako ng kapatid ko (Mrs. Julie Ong-Alonzo) gumawa ng Malunggay Tea: 1. Kumuha ng ilang sanga ng malunggay. 2. Kunin lang ang dahon at tanggalin ang sanga. 3. Hugasan maigi ang dahon. 4. Pakuluan ito sa 3 basong tubig. 5. Inumin ang manlunggay tea habang mainit pa. Masarap ito. Heto Ang B enepisy o ng Benepisy enepisyo Malunggay alunggay:: 1. Ang dahon ng malunggay ay punongpuno ng calcium at iron. Ang calcium ay nagpapatigas ng ating buto at panlaban sa osteoporosis. Kung ikaw
naman ay anemic o kulang sa dugo, sagana ang malunggay sa iron na nagpapadami ng ating dugo.
2. Mataas din sa protina, potassium, vitamin A at vitamin C ang malunggay. Ang mga bitaminang ito ay tinatawag na anti-oxidants. Ito yung lumalaban sa stress at nagpapabagal sa pag-edad ng ating katawan. 3. Kumpara sa ibang prutas at gulay, ang malunggay ay may mas
maraming bitamina. Super-gulay talaga ang malunggay. Par a sa M aysakit ara Maysakit 1. Pampalakas ng katawan - Kumain ng 1 tasang dahon ng malunggay araw-araw para mapunuan ang bitaminang kailangan ng katawan. 2. Pampadami ng gatas ng ina - Kapag kulang ang gatas ng ina, kumain ng 1 tasang dahon araw-araw. Puwede din pakuluan ang dahon at gawing tsaa at inumin. 3. Para sa constipated - Kapag ika’y tinitibi, kumain din ng 12 tasang dahon sa gabi. Makatutulong ito sa pagnormal ng iyong pagdudumi. Marami pang galing na itinatago ang malunggay. Kaya magtanim na ng malunggay sa inyong bakuran.
you. Ordinary mortals can shout and shout to the world but only few people would listen to them, but that of a leader of 1.2 billion Catholics all over the globe including those in this country is unimaginable. The moral suasion penetrates the heart and soul of every Filipino Catholics; we are sure, including those in the highest echelon of government and the lawmakers,” the former rebel group
said. The MILF said it shared with the Aquino administration the expectation and prayers that the papal message serves as clarion call to all persons of goodwill. Pope Francis arrived in the Philippines on January 15 from Sri Lanka and have visited Tacloban City and Palo town in the Visayas where Mindanao tribal leaders led by Dulphing Ogan, of the indigenous
group called “Kalumaran,” conferred him the title Apô (Elder) Edsila during a traditional ritual. Edsila literally means light or sunrise, or dawn of a new day, according to Ogan. He said Edsila - a term used by Higaonon and Talaandig tribes inhabiting the mountains around the Pulangi River in central Mindanao - signifies hope, newness, and change. (Mindanao Examiner)
Dr. Willie T. Ong
Grand Mufti visits Sulu province Continued fr om page 1 from Nearly a hundred Muslim religious leaders attended led by Tuan Sharif Julasiri Abirin ( Mufti of Sulu), Tuan Muhaymin Abubakar (SUCPD Chairman) and
Tuan Yahya Abdulla (SUCPD/Farmers Federation) attended the dialogue. The military contingent was headed by General Rustico Guerrero, chief of the Western Mindanao
Command and Rear Admiral Yoma, commander of the Task Force Zambasulta, among others. The Armed Forces of the Philippines, particularly through the current Joint Task Group-Sulu and
the Sulu Ulama Council for Peace and Development are two of the actively-engaged network partners of Sulu Area Coordinating Council.(Mindanao Examiner - Franzie Sali. With a report from SACC.)
Media, Film and Television Productions
Maritess Fernandez Publisher/Executive Producer (On Leave) Al Jacinto Editor-in-Chief/Producer (OIC) Don Micael Moleño Graphics/Video Editor Mindanao Examiner Productions Web Master REGIONAL PARTNERS Mindanao Daily Business Week Mindanao Star NEWS/ADVERTISING OFFICES Mark Navales Central Mindanao Richard Suarez Pagadian City Zamboanga del Sur
Alan Navales North- South Cotabato Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat Jeng Fernandez Juna Subd., Matina, Davao City
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Ely Dumaboc/Jun Feliciano Zamboanga Peninsula The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper is published weekly in Mindanao, Philippines. The Mindanao Examiner Television is broadcast in KISMET Cable TV and Pagadian Cable Television Channel 63. Our business and editorial offices are located at Units 15, 3rd Floor, Fair Land Bldg., Nuñez St., Zamboanga City Phone & fax: 062- 9925480 Mobile: 0917-7103642 URL: mindanaoexaminer.com E-mail: mindanaoexaminer@gmail.com
Muslims protest attacks on Islam Continued fr om page 1 from “They can write, speak against our religion, but not in an obscene manner or creating images for our Prophet, which is forbidden in Islam,” Sharief said. Speakers from various sectors also gave fiery and
emotional messages and at the same time appealed to the Western media to stop insulting Islam and respect other religions. The protesters also burned a huge replica of the Charlie Hebdo magazine and a photo of Israeli Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that they accused as behind the demoralization of Islam. Many of the protesters were chanting “Allahu Akbar” or God is Great, while others shouted “We will not apologize,” in reaction to calls by the West on
Muslims to apologize for the attack on the magazine. The marchers said they will again hold a protest rally if the attacks on Islam by the Western media continue. (By Drieza Liningding. With a report from Mindanao Examiner’s Mark Navales.)
Advertising Department Tel. (062) 9925480
Founded 2006
mindanaoexaminer.com
FOR ADVERTISEMENTS, PLEASE CALL (062) 9925480
P10 Jan. 26- Feb. 1, 2015
Malaysians continue to flock Visayas
T
he Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas said it is targeting more Malaysian tourists to visit the central Philippine region this year following an increase tourist arrivals in Iloilo province in 2014. DOT Regional Director Helen Catalbas said Aklan is the top destination for Malaysians followed by Bacolod City and Negros Occidental. She said there was more than 200% increase in the arrival of Malaysian
DA padayonon ang pagpauswag sa rice production
Photos courtesy of Cebu Provincial Government
Magellan's Cross filled with candles from devotees, pilgrims
F
ollowing the Sinulog 2015 celebration for the Feasts of S anto Niño de Cebú, thousands of candles of different colors filled kiosk of Magellan's Cross at the Plaza Sugbo fronting Cebu City Hall. Catholic devotees left candles, including notes of prayers and petition, and small cash as part of their tradition. Thousands of Catholic faithful and pilgrims flocked to Cebu every January to fulfill
their devotion to the Holy Child. Magellan's Cross is one of the most important heritage sites in the "Queen City of the South." It was planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan on April 14, 1521 when he baptized the first Christian Filipinos, Rajah Humabon and Queen Juana. The historical landmark which symbolizes that Cebu is the Cradle of Christianity in Asia was also affected by the 7.2
Magellan's Cross kiosk in Cebu City. (Photo courtesy of Cebu City Government) magnitude October 15, 2013 earthquake. It is currently under-
going rehabilitation and repair. (Greggy Jiggs Senados)
Dili apektado ang OFWs sa integrated terminal fee Cebu readies 'child-
G
ikonsiderar sa gobyerno ang kaayohan sa katawhan apil na ang mga overseas Filipino workers kun mopatuman og mga bag-ong palisiya sama sa ipatuman nga integrated terminal fees sa mga airplane tickets sa mga pasahero. Kini ang gipasalig ni government spokesman Sonny Coloma atubangan sa giingong kabalaka sa pipila ka OFWs sa pagpatuman sa integrated terminal fee tungod kay protektado man sa balaod ang ilang exemption sa terminal
ARMM
centered' disaster risk reduction plan
fee.
Hangyo man gud sa kadaghanan nga hulaton na lamang sa gobyerno ang pagsusi sa Kongreso kalabot niini. Apan gipasabot ni Coloma nga sa wala pa kini nadesisyonan, diha nay halapad nga konsultasyon kalabot niini. Gikonsiderar usab sa Malakanyang nga maayong venue ang Kongreso aron mahatagan og katinawan ang detalye sa maong desisyon. Gitakdang ipatuman ang integrated terminal fee sa Pebrero 1, 2015. (Cebu Examiner)
tourists in the region and this is expected to increase further this year. “We are confident that more Malaysian tourists will be interested to visit Western Visayas once they are convinced this region has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions, facilities and services,” Catalbas said. Malaysia recorded the highest growth rate in tourist arrivals to the Philippines for the first nine months of 2014. (Cebu Examiner)
THE CEBU Provincial Government, through its disaster management and information offices, recently met with SEEDS ASIA to coordinate efforts in coming up and implementing a child-centered disaster risk reduction and management plan. The plan involves capacity-building in schools, training of teachers and empowering the children, noting their influence on parents.
Southern Mindanao
Davao
This is to further improve Cebu's disasterpreparedness, according to provincial spokeswoman Ethel Natera. Some P49 million fund are being readied for capacity-building projects this year. Disaster management chief Baltz Tribunalo said the curr iculum and Infor mation, Education and Communication campaign programs are ready now and available. (LTL)
A
ng Department of Agriculture padayon nga mohatag sa mga serbisyo ug programa isip ayuda sa mga mag-uuma ug mangingisda nga mapalambo ang ilang mga abot ubos sa programang pang gobyerno ni Presidente Aquino. Mao kini ang pahibalo ni Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala atol sa usa ka media briefing didto sa Quezon City nga gipahigayon ning bulan sa Enero. Sugod karong tuiga lahutay sa tuig 2017, ang gobyerno mopahiluna ug mga imprastraktura ug ubang proyektong pang kalamboan ngadto sa mga lagyo nga umahan aron mapakubsan ang production cost sa abot sa mag-uuma ug aron usab makab-ot ang tinud-anay nga kompetitisyon sa binaligyaay sa ilang mga produkto. Ang DA nakahimo na sa mga programa ug serbisyo nga naka ayuda sa mga mag uuma sama sa rice mechanization program nga combine harvesters diin bayran sa gobyerno ang 85% niini ug ang 15% gikan sa grupo sa mga mag-uuma. Gipasigarbo ni Alcala nga tungod sa maong programa nakab-ot sa nasud ang pinakataas nga rice harvest nga miabot ug 18.4 million metric tons niadtong tumalapos sa tuig 2013. Dugang ni Alcala, sa tumong nga mapauswag pa ang rice production sa nasud nanghatag sila ug mga high quality seeds, fertilizers ug mga modernong pamaagi sa panguma.
Western Mindanao
Cebu
Ang Philippine Statistics Authority sa ilang bahin mi taho nga ang rice production sa Pilipinas mi taas ngadto sa 9.55% in terms of value ug 0.33% in terms of volume sa milabayng siyam ka bulan. Tungod niini ang ubang nasud sa Asia sama sa Korea nahimu-ot sa nakab-ot nga record harvest sa Pilipinas ug nanghinaut ang Korean government nga mapaambit usab ngadto kanila ang mga pamaaging gihimo sa atong agrikultura sa pagpadaghan sa rice production. Si Alcala sa iyang pagbisita sa Korea niadtong 2014 miingon nga ang Korean government nahimuot sa gipakitang abilidad sa mga Pilipinong mag-uuma pagkab-ot sa pinakataas nga rice production sulod lamang sa tulo ka tuig nga sa ilang bahin nahimo nila sa gitas-ong unom ka tuig. Sa laing kalamboan, mga local farmers padayon nga ga export sa mga de kalidad nga bugas sama sa black rice, red rice, jasponica rice ni Doña Maria ug SL Agritech, organic rice gikan sa Bicol ug Mindanao. Ang DA pinaagi sa abag sa Land Bank of the Philippines mipaambit sa Sikat Saka Program isip pautang sa mga kwalipkadong maguuma nga makakuha sa 47,000 kada ektaryang ma tamnan sa certified seeds ug laing 52,000 kada ektaryang matamnan sa hybrid seeds. Ang Land Bank mohatag sa maong pautang kutob lamang sa tag lima ka ektaryang yuta nga ma tamnan. (MBCN, LPP)
Manila