Continue on page 6Continue on page 6
towards economic transformation to shield the country from future crises in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Continue on page 5Continue on page 5 DOH eyes more Covid vaccination in BARMM face masks in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with adequate ventilation.Marcos signed Continue on page 5Continue on page 5 COTABATO CITY –Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire vowed to speed up Covid-19 vaccination in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao following a Continue on page 2Continue on page 2
No Bongbong
Amid fears and anxiety over reports of ab-
A police photo shows Pandag Mayor Khaddafe (Khadafeh) Mangudadatu alias ‘Toy’ Mangudadatu.
Continue Continue on page 5 Nur agree to unite for peace
An MNLF photo shows Moro National Liberation Front Chairman Nur Misuari with Moro Islamic Liberation Front Chairman Murad Ebrahim.
Mayor accused of killing Muslim couple arrested
Seizure of Indonesian reptiles in the Philippines makes case for greater cross-border cooperation
SARANGANI - Over 100 reptiles, several endemic to Indonesia, have been seized in the Philippines in a case that once again calls attention to incessant wildlife smuggling between the two countries.
ARMM Eastern Mindanao Western Mindanao Cebu Manila Est 2006 mindanaoexaminer.com ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT (062) 9555360 or (0917) 7103642 P10 September 19-25, 2022
‘News blackout’ on spate of kidnappings?
SENATOR Grace Poe expressed concern on the seeming media blackout implemented by authorities on the allegedly increasing kidnapping incidents in the country.
Marcos bent on transforming economy
“Gusto naming malaman mismo sa PNP, ano bang nangyayari dito? Bakit nagkaroon ng news
more face masks! PRESIDENT
Marcos has now allowed the voluntary wearing of
DBM naglabas ng P2.2-B pondo para sa DOE ‘DOE kinalampag naman sa Zamboanga’ ZAMBOANGA CITY - Naglaan ng P2.2 bilyong pondo ang Department Murad,
T he Philippines’ former and top Muslim separatist leaders have agreed to unitehe former and top Muslim separatist leaders have to unite for peace in one of Southeast Asia’s most conflict torn regions, in a “historic”for peace in one of Southeast Asia’s most conflict-torn in a “historic” meeting that took place 46 years after the movement splitthat took place 46 years after the movement split.Continue on page 2Continue on page 2 Seized lizards. (Traffic.org) of Budget and Management (DBM) para sa mga proyekto ng Department of Energy (DOE) sa taong 2023. Continue on page 4Continue on page 4
on page 5
MANILA - President Bongbong Marcos said his administration is geared
DAVAO CITY – Police have tightened security at a custodial facility where Pandag Mayor Khaddafe (Khadafeh) Mangudadatu alias ‘Toy’ is being held on murder charges for allegedly killing a Muslim couple 12 years ago in Sultan Kudarat’s President Quirino Mangudadatu,town.aformer member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, was captured by policemen at a posh hotel in Davao City recently after an arrest warrant was issued by the court for the Continue on page 4Continue on page 4
ductions, Poe noted the lack of official and verified information from the Philippine National Police (PNP) on the matter.
blackout? It needs to be verified from the authorities, either from the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) or the PNP,” Poe Poesaid. asked the PNP not to dismiss reports
with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front following decades of conflict.
During the meeting, Ebrahim said he told Misuari that the Bangsamoro peace process was the “fruit” of the regional struggle.“This is not only the struggle of the MILF, but also the struggle of the MNLF,” he Thoughsaid.Ebrahim and Misuari have met on several occasions before, including at an event in 2019, Sunday’s meeting was the first time since 1977 that both leaders sat down for a discussion, Misuari’s daughter Nur-Ainee Tan Lim, who helped arrange the event, told Arab News.
In 2019, Bangsamoro residents voted for its greater autonomy in a referendum held as part of the peace process. The transition period will culminate in 2025, when Bangsamoro will elect its legislature and executive.
“That is very good news, good gesture because I really want us all to work together,” he said.
The meeting included leaders from foreign government support agencies such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Korea International Cooperation Agency, Manila Economic and Cultural Office, United States Agency for Obstetrics.tionforJohnsforDevelopment,InternationalUSCentersDiseaseControl,andHopkinsProgramInternationalEduca-inGynecologyand
Also in attendance were top executives from international development organizations such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, World Health Organization, United Nations Population Fund, and United Nations Children's Fund among many others. Local health partners who were also present in the meeting include Oxfam Pilipinas, Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc., WomanHealth Philippines, and Zuellig Family Foundation among others.
under the new health sector strategy that the Department of Health shall initiate in the first year of its implementation. Among these are the international and local health regulations, capacitance of regional offices, improving human resources for health strategies, and streamlining health financing mechanisms as priority areas where health partners may provide financial and technical support.“Ifweare able to jointly deliver on our PinasLakas targets for BARMM and priority areas, as well as collaborate to successfully implement these identified initiatives in the first year, this will serve as our proof of concept that Universal Health Care is within reach, and that we will move mountains to make it happen for every Filipino,” she said.
Moro National Liberation Front Chairman Nur Misuari welcomes Bangsamoro autonomous region Interim Chief Minister and Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Ahod Ebrahim and Senior Minister Abdulraof Macacua during a visit to his home in Davao City. Both Misuari and Ebrahim say the meeting is historic and signifies unity and solidarity between the two leaders and their groups. (MNLF Photo)
“It was very emotional because it’s been 46 years since the top leaders of MNLF and MILF really held a meeting of that magnitude,” Lim said.
Kopi Luwak is also available now in 3rd Cup Café at LM Metro Hotel in Zamboanga City, and resellers in Luzon, Cebu and other parts of Mindanao. The Mindanao Civet Coffee is a favorite among travellers and tourists and coffee connoisseurs. And for those who wanted the perfect gift for all occasions, Kopi Luwak is the best choice. And those who are interested to resell or perhaps enjoy a daily hot cup or cold brew of Kopi Luwak may call the Mindanao Civet Coffee at this mobile number 0917-7103642 or visit their Facebook page: Mindanao Civet Coffee. (AJC)
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 recent meeting with international and local health identifiedvaccinated,”otherpeoplestrategiesculturally-appropriatedevelopstrengthsmaximizeourkeynizewhereuntilnotmosttyonHealthPinasLakas.thetoofespeciallyingwellresourceationalingpartnerslenge,gions.marycoveragesayingtionitythatVergeirepartners.emphasizedtheshort-termprior-istoincreasevaccina-coverageinBARMM,ithasthelowest(55.24%)forpri-seriesamongallre-Consideringthischal-sheappealedfortoprovidefund-assistanceforoper-gapsandhumandeployment,astosupportmonitor-andimplementation,intheprovincesBasilanandSulu.“WedonotjustwantfocusondeliveringnationaltargetsofUniversalCareisanchoredequity–wherequali-careisprovidedtothevulnerable.Wecan-progressasacountry,everyJuanevery-isuplifted.”“Todoso,werecog-thecriticalroleofourpartnersinsupportinginitiatives.Weneedtoourpartners’andsupporttoinnovativeandthatencourageinBARMMandinpriorityareastogetVergeiresaid.Vergeiresaidshehaskeyinitiatives
medium roasted to perfection.
Misuari and Ebrahim agreed “to sustain the gains of peace that they want to carry on,” she said.
They also discussed other ways to boost development in Mindanao, with Misuari suggesting the possibility of getting the Organization of Islamic Cooperation involved in those efforts, Lim said.
This wastage of vaccines came to light during the House Committee on Appropriations budget briefing where Vergeire admitted that the vaccines had already expired and that some 12 million doses are in the national warehouse and the rest are in various regional warehouses. The government began its rollout of the life-saving vaccines in March 2021 and a significant portion of the vaccines came as donations from other countries. (Mindanao Examiner)
COFFEE LOVERS in the Philippines may now enjoy the best and the most expensive coffee in the world - Kopi Luwak - but not as pricey as every connoisseurs think.
Kopi Luwak is a coffee that consists of partially digested coffee cherries, which have been eaten and defecated by the Asian palm civet. The cherries are fermented as they pass through a civet’s intestines, and after being defecated with other fecal matter, they are collected.In
Murad, Nur agree to unite for peace
An armed breakaway group of the Moro National Liberation Front, the oldest Muslim separatist movement in Mindanao, the MILF separated from its parent organization in 1977 and continued to fight even when the MNLF reached a peace agreement with Manila in the 1990s. Only in 2014 did the MILF’s fighters agree to turn over their firearms in exchange for the establishment of a self-administered Bangsamoro.
“They could feel the magnificent moment and the historic moment that was happening right there.”Lim said the meeting was “not something that happened overnight,” and had followed years of hard work and persistence, as well as “a lot of convincing” from both sides.
Mindanao Civet Coffee, which started as a home reseller of coffee beans, now offers organic Kopi Luwak in 250 grams ground Civet coffee and 250 grams Civet coffee beans – all
The new market player in the coffee business, although small, is now offering affordable organic Kopi Luwak – sourced and picked by farmers from the highlands of Mindanao, cleaned and dried and roasted to perfection to give coffee lovers that distinct aroma of Civet coffee berries – chocolaty and nutty and smooth bodied brewed drink.
“That is very important because we have seen in the past that he (Misuari) is not really cooperating. I think this is the first time that he himself expressed support,” Ebrahim told Arab News.
Organic Kopi Luwak or Civet coffee isn’t really pricey
Manila, a kilogram of Civet coffee sells for as high as P15,000 and over $500 dollars abroad.But
“They were willing to just, you know, forget whatever differences and try to find the commonality so that they can just move forward as one,” she added.After decades of conflict, Mindanao’s development has been hampered and the region kept among the poorest regions not only in the Philippines, but also in Asia. (Arab News)
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 Bangsamoro, a region covering predominantly Muslim areas of Mindanao, has been undergoing a peace process for nearly a decade since the Philippine government struck a permanent ceasefire deal
But it was unclear why the DOH failed in its vaccination campaign in BARMM. It was also unknown whether Vergeire told local and international partners about the wastage of over 20 million Covid-19 vaccines.
Kopi Luwak can now be enjoyed by every coffee lovers for as low as P150 for a 16 oz. cup that comes with a drip bag, ground organic Civet coffee beans, two packets of brown sugar and a stirrer in a beautiful Kraft paper bag – thanks to the Mindanao Civet Coffee seller in Zamboanga City.
2 The Mindanao Examiner September 19-25, 2022
DOH eyes more Covid vaccination in BARMM
The MNLF’s founding chairman, Nur Misuari, and MILF chief Ahod “AlHaj Murad” Ebrahim sat down for a meeting on September 11 at the former’s house in Davao City, where the two agreed to unite for peace and pave the way for reconciliation.
3The Mindanao ExaminerSeptember 19-25, 2022
‘DOE kinalampag naman sa Zamboanga’
ng P85 sa ilalabas nitong identification card nito sa mga aomatapos-tapos.proyektoitpower105-megawattkumpanyapuroatConsolidatedPowerproyektopublikongisasangdahilOver-pricedmember-consumers.diumanoitomaymgagumagawaPVCIDssaZamboangahalagangP30-P50bawatkumparasaP85singilZAMCELCO.PinatitignanrinngangmatagalngngSanRamonPlantngAlsonsResourceshanggangngayonaypangakoumanoangsapagtatayongcoalfiredplantdito.Mahig-isangdekadanaitongathindiparin(Mindan-Examiner)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reminded mayors and governors that local governments are prohibited from acquiring or using luxury vehicles for their operations.
In DILG Memorandum Circular (MC) 2022105, Abalos encouraged local governments to dedicate a percentage of their vehicular requirements to the purchase of motor vehicles using alternative fuel types such as biofuels, flexi-fuel, natural gas, and solar-powered, taking into consideration the sustainability or power supply in the area of operation.
SUPPORT PEACE IN MINDANAO
difficulty in breathing. But the results of the series of medical tests were all normal, according to Capt. Richard Ebero, medical officer of the Criminal Investigation and Detection GroupThe(CIDG).mayor has not issued any statement. (Mindanao Examiner)
Bagama’t malaking tulong ang pondo sa mga programa ng DOE, mara-
Like luxury cars, Abalos said the purchase of second-hand or reconditioned vehicles, except for aircraft and sea craft, regardless of the source of funds and approving authority is also not allowed.
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1
4 The Mindanao Examiner September 19-25, 2022
Mayor accused of killing Muslim couple arrested
killings of Abdulah and Lalaw Ligawan in October 7, 2010 in the village of Sinakulay.Policeare also hunting three other suspects – Zajid Mangudadatu, Tunggal Usop and Mamayang Amino – in connection to the murder charges. Judge
DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. called on local chief executives, including village officials and Sanggunian members to exercise due prudence when purchasing motor vehicles and observe strict compliance with budgetary, procurement and auditing laws, regulations and standards at all times.
Samina Sampaco Macabando-Usman, of Branch 20 of the Regional Trial Court, who signed the arrest warrant on September 9, recommended no bail for all the ingingrushedMangudadatuaccused.wastohospitalfollow-hisarrest,complain-ofchestpainsand
He said local chief executives are allowed to acquire the following motor vehicles and heavy equipment chargeable against their local funds subject to specification musttendedthatvehicles.motorcycleshiclesandjeep;owneretc.;talagementmachinery,portequipment,suchvans;cles,patrolclesspecific-purposelimitations:vehi-suchasambulances,andarmoredvehi-firetrucks,prisoners’heavyequipmentasroadconstructioncargotrans-equipment,farmwasteman-orenvironmen-sanitationequipment,locally-assembled,orpassenger-typemotorizedbancasmotorizedboats;ve-formasstransport;andtri-wheel“Pleasebearinmindallmotorvehiclesin-tobepurchasednotcontainabrand
DBM naglabas ng P2.2-B pondo para sa DOE
Ayon kay DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, ang pondo ay bahagi ng prayoridad ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa sektor ng enerhiya na naglalayong makapagbigay ng mura at maaasahang suplay ng kuryente sa taumbayan.Ilansa mga programa ng DOE na layong pondohan ay ang Total Electrification Project, Renewable Energy Development Program, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program, at Alternative Fuels and Technologies Program.
if gasoline-fed or 2,800 cc if diesel-fed and/or with an engine exceeding four cylinders.Forsports utility vehicles, they are considered luxury vehicles when the engine displacement exceeds 2,700 cc, if gasoline-fed or 3,000 cc if diesel-fed and/or with an engine exceeding four cylinders, he added.
He said all local governments with proposed acquisition of motor vehicles that are not under the approving authority of the local chief executive must seek prior approval from the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Office of the President, or the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, on specific motor vehicles as may be authorized by designated approving authorities.Abalos also said that according to guidelines from the Department of Budget and Management, rental of vehicles can be resorted to if the mode is deemed more economical, expedient, and convenient than outright purchase such as for ad hoc functions, for the transportation of participants during events, for urgent or emergency cases, among others. (Mindanao Examiner)
In case of assembly of vehicles, Abalos said it is subject to the approval of the Secretary of Budget and Management and shall not use surplus or reconditioned engines.
LGUs not allowed to buy ‘luxury’ vehicles
Abalos said the procurement of motor vehicles should be done in the most efficient and economic manner with due consideration on vehicles that are cost-effective, fuel-efficient, environment-friendly, and at par with improvements and developments in the automotive industry and relevant mentwithposecylinders;anififmentwithorcylinders;anififmentwithcarsaspondomasinopatingongngekonomiyamasasamangtayosakyanmatipid“Manatilitechnology.potayongsapagpilingsa-lalona’thindipanakakabangonsaepektosangpandemyaCovid-19.Dapatpotay-maginghalimbawasamganasasakupansanapaggamitngngbayan,”hesaid.Hesaidconsidered“luxuryvehicles”are(sedanorhatchback)anenginedisplace-exceeding2,500cc,gasoline-fedor3,500ccdiesel-fedand/orwithengineexceedingfourpassengervanspick-uptypevehiclesanenginedisplace-exceeding2,500cc,gasoline-fedor3,000ccdiesel-fedand/orwithengineexceedingfourandmultipur-vehiclesandvansanenginedisplace-exceeding2,500cc,
mi naman ang nanawagan sa naturang ahensya na aksyunan nito ang malalang problema sa operasyon ng Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (ZAMCELCO).Inirereklamamo ng mga mamamayan ang walang humpay na voltage fluctuation, over reading ng mga metro ng kuryente, ang walang kwentang serbisyo sa publiko, partikular sa Service Department; at ang back billing ng ZAMCELCO na nagreresulta ng biglang pagtaas ng singil sa kuryente sa tuwing pinapalitan ang mga lumangMaymetro.panukala pa ang ZAMCELCO na maningil
name. Likewise, no post-purchase authority shall or could be issued by the Department under any circumstances,” Abalos said.Healso said the purchase of assembly vehicles sush as passenger or owner-type jeepneys is allowed only when brand-new vehicles are not available in the locality or if available, the cost is prohibitive due to the distance from the nearest market source; or where an assembled vehicle is deemed more durable as the design and type of parts used are made suitable to the road condition/terrain in the locality such as in remote barangays or municipalities.
The EO No. 3 is in response to the “improving” Covid-19 situation in the country, noting a steady decline in new cases and primarily attributed to the success of the country's intensified vaccination campaign.Amid the removal of the mandatory face mask policy, the public is still strongly advised to follow minimum safety protocols, such as frequent hand washing for added safety.
“That’s why in my view, I talk about transforming our economy, not recovery. Because I don’t want the economy to recover to what it was in 2019. I want to transform the economy to be ready for the shocks, the difficulties that we will face from 2022,” he said during a television interview.
The island of New Guinea, which comprises the Papua province of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, is a frequent source of live wild animals smuggled into the Philippines. Previous seizures have been dominated by birds, making the recent all-reptile confiscation unusual.
Four men, who could not produce any legal permits for the animals, were arrested by officers of the Philippine Coast Guard - Eastern Sarangani and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Glan. They face criminal charges for violating Section 27(f and i) of the Philippines Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.
possible.Healso acknowledged the country’s high inflation rate, which affected everything.“We’ve actually done, in terms of monetary policy, we’ve done all right in the Philippines. Ang problema is something that’s called imported — imported inflation. Because of the inflation that was suffered by whatever project — sabihin bibili tayo fertilizer, doon sa pinanggalingan niya, tumaas ang presyo ng natural gas, tumaas ang presyo ng ammonia, all of the elements that go into it. This is the current reality given the interconnection among countries…that one nation cannot deal or trade anymore without talking to other countries,” he said. (Mindanao Examiner)
Seizure of Indonesian reptiles in the Philippines makes case for greater cross-border cooperation
(Mindan-
wear their face masks and observe physical distancing at all times.
Marcos bent on transforming economy
ing wild-caught parrots from Indonesian islands that are located close to the Philippines, such as the Maluku and Talaud islands. This includes at least four seizures of 462 Indonesian endemic parrots between 2013 and 2017.
Executive Order No. 3 after approving the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management and Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) on the optional use of face masks outdoors.Butaccording to the EO No. 3, face masks should be continuously worn in indoor private or public establishments, including in public transportation by land, air, or sea, and in outdoor settings where physical distancing cannot be However,maintained.peoplewho are not fully vaccinated, including senior citizens, and immunocompromised individuals are to
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1
The IATF has issued a resolution recommending the liberalization of the government’s mask mandate by amending the guideline and mak-
An overloaded passenger jeepney in Zamboanga City goes against the flow of traffic on Friday, September 9, 2022. Many public utility drivers in Zamboanga City are undisciplined. This driver even curses before speeding away.
Reptiles in regions'in pet tradepet trade
The President particularly mentioned making food affordable for everybody. He said it is the administration’s priority to ensure food security, adding the government has to reorganize the entire agricultural production value chain system over the years.
When asked about his aspiration to reduce the price of rice to P20 per kilo, Marcos said it would take time to achieve it.
No more face masks!
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1
Despite the sustained growth in the country’s gross domestic product, economic recovery from the pandemic is still ongoing amidst uncertainties in the international economic environment. ao Examiner)
Marcos expressed optimism about the administration’s success in any endeavor, noting, however, that it must come up with new ideas and be creative.
‘Marcos Oks voluntary use of face mask outdoors despite Covid-19’
ing mask wearing optional in open spaces or non-crowded, ventilated areas, and through possible alternative EO lifting the mandatory mask mandate.The Philippine economy contracted in 2020 because of the pandemic, with its effects trickling down to the grassroots level, resulting in job losses and business closures. The goal of EO No. 3 is to further boost the economy.
reptiles from beyond Asia that are popular in the exotic pet trade in the region, such as the Green Iguana Iguana iguana and Black and White Tegu Salvator merianae, and Leopard Tortoise Stigmochelys pardalis.“We know there is a flourishing online reptile trade in the Philippines, and investigations are needed to uncover how shipments like these might be feeding that demand,” said Emerson Y. Sy referring to TRAFFIC’s study published in 2018 showing thousands of live reptiles advertised for sale on Facebook over a three-month period.Details on the seizureDetails on seizure
“There’s a way to do it but it will take a while. We have to return NFA to its old function, not so much importation but really the buying. And then even — even actually now we can already do it but it’s a little short-term. We sell the buffer stock that they have in NFA. We can sell it at 20 pesos. But that’s not really realistic. We have to bring the actual price down,” he explained.Marcos said with the right government interventions, such as improving the value chain and securing some savings, as well as a favorable world market condition, attaining a P20 per kilo of rice would be
5The Mindanao ExaminerSeptember 19-25, 2022 This SPACE (3.5”x2”) is only P5,000 a month or four spots (once a week) PLUS the same ad is posted on our website and Facebook page for FREE! Hurry, call us now for your ad placement! 062-9555360 / 0917-7103642
The suspects allegedly picked up the wildlife on Balut Island, which lies adjacent to major waterways also bordering Indonesia and are well-known for trafficking wildlife and other contraband between the countries. (Traffic.org)
Among the reptiles seized were species globally listed Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, including the Pig-nosed turtle Carettochelys insculpta, Blue Speckled Tree Monitor Lizard Varanus macraei, Banggai Island Monitor Lizard Varanus melinus and the Critically Endangered Asian Giant Tortoise Manouria emys.All are found in Indonesia’s Papua province and are also listed in Appendix II of CITES or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, which strictly regulates international trade and requiresThispermits.isthelatest in a series of seizures involving Indonesian species smuggled into the Philippines. Between 2014 and 2019, seven seizure incidents with more than 1,300 live wild animals, mostly birds from the island of New Guinea, were made in the southern Philippines. One shipment with over 300 wild Indonesian species was seized in Manila in Indonesia2018. has also foiled numerous wildlife smuggling attempts to the Philippines, mostly involv-
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1
All the animals were recovered from a fishing vessel near Glan in the province of Sarangani, in the very south of the Philippines, last August 30.
The recent case underscores both the illegal demand for reptiles within the region and the reach of traffickers into areas near Indonesia with shared biodiversity. This was evident from the discovery of the Emerald Monitor Varanus prasinus, New Guinea Blue Tongue Skink Tiliqua gigas and Common Blue Tongue Skink Tiliqua scincoides in the seizure. These are all species which are found in Indonesia but are more widely distributed in nearby Papua New Guinea or parts of TheAustralia.illegal consignment also contained some
cited for Landers to further expand in Bacolod,” Lukman said during a media briefing held at Park Inn By Radisson here.
gave 6 GI sheets and 1 kilo of roofing nails to each of 141 families in Surigao and 10 families in Dinagat Island to help the community rebuild their damaged houses caused by the typhoon.“We are thankful and honored to receive this kind of help from Caltex, AMCHAM foundation, and HCDI. This donation will truly help our people in rebuilding their homes as they continue to recover from this calamity,” said Danilo G. Cabajes, village chieftain of Sukailang in Surigao“WeCity.appreciate our long-term partnership with AMCHAM Foundation. Over the years, we have jointly supported educators, students, relief, and rehabilitation efforts
MORE than seven months after Super Typhoon Odette made landfall on the Northern tip of Mindanao, residents have yet to get fully back on their feet.
In a statement, Landers Superstore said there is an increasing demand for premium goods and experiences from the city’s growing population that will ensure a steady market for its core business.Before launching its store expansion, Landers had been working with the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation in its numerous outreach activities in Bacolod and the rest of Western Visayas under the Mingo Meals Nutritional Support Program.Graham Coates, first vice president and head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, said they are also excited to host Landers inside The Upper East, which is envisioned to become Bacolod’s newest
The senator recently filed Senate Resolution
6 The Mindanao Examiner September 19-25, 2022 Corporate / School PVC ID Customized Lanyards Trophies & Plaques T-Shirt Heat Transfer Jersey & P.E. Uniforms Full ZamboangaPrintingNewsletterSignagesSublimation&PanaflexTarpaulinsLay-Out&GraphicsKeyChains&NewsEditingServicesCity,062-9555360&0917-7103642 Earn More, Be an Advertising Agency! Do you want to earn more? Be an ADVERTISING AGENCY and DEALER for The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper and earn hefty commissions. Apply now.This offer covers Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon. ZAMBOANGA CITY ADVERTISING OFFICE 3rd Floor, JLC Building, Don Alfaro Street, Tetuan Phone: 062-9555360 Mobile: 0915-3976197
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 from concerned citizens and organizations, as she warned that the abductions may just be a precursor to much graver crimes, such as prostitution and human trafficking. “Hindi nila pwedeng sabihin na kung hindi malawakan ay hindi importante. Malawakan man o hindi, ‘pag nagkakaroon ng mga ganyang krimen ay dapat talaga tayong umaksyon,” she said.
No. 195, which calls for a legislative inquiry on the reported rising abduction cases in Metro Manila and Luzon. Aside from official figures from the PNP, Poe also sought an explanation from authorities on the increasing use of private armed security by certainPoegroups.saidthat while citizens are entitled to their own protection, existing laws regulate and limit the hiring of such bodyguards.
BACOLOD CITY – Membership retail establishment, Landers Superstore, said it is investing more than P500 million to open a branch here - the first outlet in Western Visayasby March.Thenew store, once completed, is expected to provide at least 500 jobs for local residents. The store will rise on a2.5-hectare property inside The Upper East, formerly the Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company Complex, and is now Megaworld’s township and industrial estate development situated in the 34-hectare land owned by the Araneta Group.
PNP Chief General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said the immediate response to complaints of this serious nature is guided by “our peace and security initiative MKK = K or Malasakit, Kaayusan, Kapayapaan tungo sa Kaunlaran. “
“We want the public to feel that we have a working police force who are capable of responding to various forms of crimes,” he said. (Mindanao Examiner)
Pieter Lukman (right), chief operations officer of Landers Superstore; and Graham Coates, first vice president and head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, announce the opening of Landers Superstore branch in Bacolod City. (PNA photo by Nanette L. Guadalquiver)
central business district.
That’s why Caltex, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc. in partnership with American Chamber Foundation Philippines (AmCham Foundation) and Holistic Community Development and Initiatives, Inc. (HCDI) assisted typhoon-affected families in Surigao City and Dinagat Island through the donation of roofing materials.Super Typhoon Odette which made landfall in the Philippines last December 2021 left millions of pesos in damage in the city of Surigao. Caltex together with AMCHAM and HCDI
across different parts of the Philippines. Our newfound partnership with HCDI on this project has allowed all of us to be present on the ground, together with our Caltex retailers in Surigao. Indeed, Caltex remains committed to its mission to help host communities in need of assistance,” said CPI Country Chairman Billy Liu.
dami ng bodyguards nila... Siga na, eh,” she said.
The roofing materials donation is a result of the Caltex Biyaheng Pagtulong promo held by Caltex earlier this year. The funds raised from the promo went to helping the communities in Bohol, Palawan, Cebu, Southern Leyte, Negros Occidental, and Surigao which were badly hit by Super Typhoon Odette. (Richard Ebona)
‘News blackout’ on spate of kidnappings?
Pieter Lukman, chief operations officer of Landers Superstore, said Bacolod has been selected as the site for the new store due to its thriving economy and for being one of the most business-friendly cities in the country. “We are very ex-
Landers Superstore to open outlet in Bacolod City
Caltex and AMCHAM foundation sustain support for Typhoon Odette victims in Surigao City
“Kung umasta sila, parang may private army na sila sa
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Let’s Be Quick To Show Compassion
In principle, only God can truly love because God is absolute and perfect, and He does not need anything or anyone to make Himself happier or to make Himself more perfect. We humans when we love, somehow, we expect to be loved in return because that’s what makes us happy. In fact, when a human being practices true love or unconditional love by willing the good of another person without expecting anything in return, it is because of God’s grace. Without God’s help it’s hard to practice unconditional love. Perhaps, you can practice loving others for their own sake for some time but without God’s grace it would not last.
USAID Philippines Acting Deputy Mission Director Jennifer Crow underscored the importance of empowering OSY as contributors to economic resilience and inclusive growth.
achieving more resilient and inclusive growth,” said USAID Philippines Acting Deputy Mission Director Jennifer Crow. “As future employers and engines of economic activity, the private sector is a vital partner in thisSinceeffort.”its launch in 2019, Opportunity 2.0 has engaged over 850 private sector partners nationwide, comprising 23 business groups and organizations, 130 large companies, and 640 micro, small and medium enterprises.
To date, 15 cities in the Philippines have established YDAs. Chaired by the city mayor, the alliances are composed of government line agencies, local business associations, education and training institutions, and youth organizations that drive youth-focused programs and policymaking. (Mindanao Examiner)
“AS he (Christ) drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her…” (Lk 7,12) So goes the gospel of Tuesday of the 24th Week in Ordinary Time. To this sight, Christ immediately told the mother not to weep and proceeded to raise the dead son to life again.
to support OSY and to sustain the gains achieved in recentTheyears.Summit introduced upskilled OSY as the “new generation of workers and entrepreneurs” who possess the digital skills and entrepreneurial spirit to help businesses meet the demands of the PhilippineParticipantseconomy. also underscored the need for multi-sectoral collaboration through the Youth Development Alliance (YDA), a mechanism created by the Opportunity 2.0 program for local stakeholders to coordinate programs, maximize resources, and drive policies that will benefit OSY.“Arming this untapped workforce potential with in-demand work and entrepreneurial skills will both boost economic recovery and contribute to
The Mindanao Examiner 7September 19-25, 2022
What the atheists don’t understand was the purpose of the test. It was all about fulfilling the virtue of Charity. God wanted to see if Abraham loves God above all, even more than his son. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines the Theological Virtue of Charity as the virtue by which “We love God above all things for his own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God.” (CCC 1822) Theologians would say that it was also a test on the faith of Abraham, that’s why after passing the test, Abraham was given the title the Father of Faith.
by Fr. Roy Cimagala (Cebu)
The Theological Virtue of Charity
IN Genesis Chapter 22 of the Old Testament, God put Abraham to test by asking Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a human sacrifice only to be held on when Abraham was about to kill Isaac. Many atheists would point to this Scripture story as another proof of the absurdity of a God who asked a father to kill his son but stops him when His creature was almost done obeying Him. Atheists would claim that this Christian God is playing games with His creatures. Therefore, according to them, it’s another proof that He does not really exist.
We need to examine ourselves more deeply to see if indeed we are always thinking, praying and wishing others well. We have to be wary of our tendency to let our thoughts and desires be dictated only by self-interest, usually done in a most subtle but effective way. For this, we have to do regular examinations of conscience. Definitely, to be compassionate would involve self-denial and the courage to carry the cross as Christ himself told us clearly. (cfr. Mt 16,24)
It’s obviously not easy to do, but we can always try. With God’s grace and with our persistent effort, we can, little by little and day by day, hack it, such that it becomes second nature to us to think and feel for others. That’s what compassion is all about. We just have to learn to be tough to take on whatever effort is needed. We have to learn to be all things to all men.
kung tubig o sopas ito at hindi matamis na inumin.2. Iwasan ang pag-inom ng alak.
Everyone was, of course, amazed. “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people,” they said. And the report of this event spread like wildfire through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region. While it’s true that we may not have the same power that Christ has, we should realize that like Christ we have to learn to be quick to show compassion and to be of help to anyone who is in need in one way or another.
Ang gout ay nabubuo kapag mataas ang lebel ng uric acid sa inyong dugo. Kaya ang resulta nito ay ang pagkakaroon ng crystals (parang buhangin) na nabubuo sa kasu-kasuan o palibot ng tissue na dahilan ng pananakit at pamamaga.
Ni Dr. Willie Ong (Manila)
OPINIONOPINION
Gout at Mataas ang Uric Acid
the child enjoying his play, because it could eventually harm him. Love sacrifices things for the greater good of the beloved.
Ang matinding pagatake ng gout ay maaaring makapag-pa-gising sa kalagitnaan ng iyong pagtulog na para bang sinusunog ang hinlalaki. Ang apektadong joint ay mainit, namamaga at naninigas.Angmga kadahilanan ng panganib (risk factors) sa gout ay ang labis na katabaan, sobrang pag-inom ng alak, high blood pressure, mataas na kolesterol at diabetes, at kung may lahi sa pamilya na gout.Ang gout ay nagagamot, at may paraan para mabawasan ang panganib na dulot ng gout.
We need to train ourselves in this department. If we really want to be “another Christ,” we should be quick to show compassion to others who are in need of one thing or another. This is typical of Christ. Wherever he went, though he had to convey difficult and hard-to-understand messages to the people, since these messages were mainly spiritual and supernatural in character, he never neglected their more immediate human needs.
Ang American Dietitic Association ay ini-re-rekomenda ang mga sumusunod kung umatake ang 1.gout:Uminom ng 8-16 tasa ng likido (liquid) bawat araw. Mas mainam
5. Panatilihin ang tamangKumonsultatimbang. sa doktor kung ikaw ay nilagnat at ang kasu-kasuan ay mainit at namamaga. Baka senyales ito ng impeksyon.
With the theme “ONE IN MOTION: Shaping a Shared Future with the New Generation of Workers and Entrepreneurs,” the USAID Opportunity 2.0 Private Sector Summit is the first nationwide faceto-face gathering of representatives from business, government, and civil society to craft policy proposals
Out-of-school youth as new workforce for economic recovery
by Engr. Carlos V. Cornejo (Cebu)
that we should all try to imitate. One deep desire we should have is that of making as some kind of default mode that attitude of always thinking of the others, wishing them well all the time and doing whatever we can to help, irrespective of how they are to us. They can even be hostile to us, but that should not excuse us from being compassionate to them.
MARAMING PAIBA-IBANG payo sa gout at tamang pagkain. Kaya minabuti ko ilahad ang pahayag ng Mayo Clinic sa American tungkol sa gout.Ang gout ay isang komplikadong sakit sa buto, na may kasamang biglaan at matinding pag-atake ng sakit, pamumula at paninigas ng kasu-kasuan ng katawan. Naaapektuhan nito ang paa, sakong, tuhod, kamay at kamao, ngunit kadalasan na-apektuhan ang hinlalaki sa paa.
3. Kumain ng katamtamang dami ng protina, mas mainam kung galing sa gatas (low-fat milk), tofu o tokwa, at itlog. (Hindi bawal ang monggo at tokwa sa gout. Karne ang babawasan.)4.Bawasan ang pagkain ng karne, isda at manok sa 4 hanggang 6 ounces lamang. Ang mga pagkaing ito na mataas sa protina ang nagpapataas ng uric acid sa iyong dugo.
The definition of love or charity is to will the good of the other for the other’s sake. Love means we want what is good for another being whether that being is God or our neighbor for their own sake without expecting anything in return or regardless of their behavior. That’s what true love means. When a parent truly loves a child, that parent wants what is only good for that child even if that child misbehaves and often displeases the parent. That’s how God loves us. A parent who disciplines a child for playing with fire for example, truly loves a child because the parent seeks the greater good of that child over the temporary joy of
Compassion starts in the heart, in our thoughts and desires. At this level, there is no limit in what we can do. Obviously, when we try to translate these prayers, thoughts and desires into action and material things, we can be greatly limited. But insofar as prayers and sacrifices are involved, the possibilities are unlimited.
His heart always flowed with compassion, quick to notice the needs of others and to respond to them. And all this in all simplicity, telling the beneficiaries who were so bursting with gratitude that they wanted to broadcast what they received to the whole world, to keep quiet instead. It’s an example
USAID and its local partners come together at the ONE IN MOTION Summit to shape the future of the Philippine economy with a young, agile, and resilient generation of workers and entrepreneurs.
The concept of love cannot be arrived at by our intelligence or reason alone, God had to reveal it to us through the Holy Bible. Philosophers like Aristotle who lived before Christ never came up with the idea of love. The same with Plato, Aristotle’s teacher, who authored the cardinal virtues of courage, justice, prudence and temperance but never came up with the virtue of love. It was Christ who introduced us to this highest virtue of Charity by giving us the summary of the Ten Commandments, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39) When we love God above all things, our life is put into order. When we love something else or someone else above God, our life disintegrates. And life falls apart to the degree of how far we have separated ourselves from the love of God.
THE United States Agency for International Development (USAID) recently gathered over 150 local partners to advance employment, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities for Filipino out-ofschool youth (OSY) as new drivers of economic recovery and inclusive growth.
Photos from the Office of the Sulu Provincial Governor, Jaques Tutong, Maimbung Municipal Government,
8 The Mindanao Examiner September 19-25, 2022
Pictures in the News
Photos from the Office of the Sulu Provincial Governor, Jaques Tutong, Municipal Government, Rep. Shernee Tambut, Radyo Pilipinas Jolo, Noenyrie Asiri, and Aziz SalapuddinRep. Shernee Tambut, Jolo, Asiri, and Aziz
The Mindanao Examiner 9September 19-25, 2022 Across : 1. Speck 4. Sock part 8. 48.45.44.40.38.36.35.33.30.29.26.22.21.20.18.16.15.14.13.12.SombrerosHouseextensionAtleisureCanyonsoundEspionageorg.DevotedVulgarBlunderGlamorous___HayworthMajesticZitiandmacaroniUnderstandFacetDiminishWeedingimplementLeastcourteousMother-ofpearlsource___ofManHelp!WarnedRestoredcon fidence 51. Tattered cloth 52. “The Diary of ___ 53.Frank”Skirt length 54. Rd. 55. Cherished animals 56. Annoying thing 57. Married Down : 1. Room design 2. Defendant’s offering 3. Explosion 4. Lie low 5. Genesis garden 6. Firstborn 7. Hawaiian garland 8. Purple ___ 9. Cameron Diaz, e.g. 10. “Raiders of ___ Lost Ark” 11. Instant lawn 17. Stops 19. Batman’s wear 23. Narrative 24. Grant’s foe 25. Desire 27. Crossword direction 28. Stupefy 30. Discoverer’s cry 31. Cry loudly 32. Poor farmer 34. Agitate 37. Sweetie 39. Misplaces 41. Wheat by-product 42. Depart 43. Double-___sword 46. Camera glass 47. Revise copy 48. Knock 49. Wind direction (abbr.) 50. Ref’s kin Answer to last week’s crossword: Weekly Sudoku:Answer to last week: ADVERTISE WITH US The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper is available in Cotabato City’s lone newspaper dealer Bernadette Guotana at “Goutana Copy Center” at Stall 5. For subscription, please call 0997-5412615. And for all your publications, please call BARMM Bureau Chief Mark Navales at 0916-6885389 Cotabato Newspaper Dealer Cebu Newspaper Dealer Villamero’s Enterprises Zamboanga Newspaper Dealer For all your newspaper publications or subscription to The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper, please call or text Villamero’s Enterprises at these numbers (062) 955-8677 and 0917-1223496. Located at Campaner Street, Zamboanga City and serving Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. For all your newspaper publications or subscription to The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper, please call or text Rodil Ybañez at these numbers (0923) 1670009. Located at G/F Dreamfield bldg, Sanciangko Street, Kamagayan Cebu City Maritess Fernandez Publisher/Executive Producer Al Jacinto Editor-in-Chief Reynold Toribio Graphics/Video Editor MANILA No. 18 Purok 4B Madelo Street, Lower Bicutan, Taguig City, 1632 (0916)chardee.mindanaoexaminer@gmail.com9558559,(0915)0070927,(0947)2652969 Richard C. Ebona ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA BASILAN, SULU, TAWI TAWI BARMM 3/F, JLC Building, Don Alfaro Street, Tetuan Zamboanga City (062) 9555360 (0915) 3976197 / (0935) 6123587 MaritessDAVAOFernandezCITYKamya Alley, Dagaang Compound, San Pedro Extension (087) 9851560 / (0997) 3172021 MarilouCEBUCablindaCITYG/F Dreamfield bldg, Sanciangko Street, Kamagayan (0923) 1670009 Rodil P. Ybañez NORTH KIDAPAWANCOTABATOCITY Paolo De Jesus (0927) 4757936 BARMM CENTRAL MINDANAO COTABATO CITY 5-A Pansacala Street (RH10) Cotabato City, 9600 Mark Navales (0916) 6885389 PAGADIAN CITY Kismet Cable TV, Aquino cor. Cabrera st., Gatas District, Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur (0910) 7348600 Richard Suarez MAF Trading Zamboanga 062-9555360 / 0917-7103642
10 The Mindanao Examiner September 19-25, 2022
The Mindanao Examiner 11September 19-25, 2022
DOT welcomes easing of mask mandate
said.The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases submitted to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. its recommendation to make masks optional in open spaces, or non-crowded outdoor areas with good and(Joycetiousgeneviewandtectionvidesasthecer-in-Charge,Healthgeire,Mariaventilation.UndersecretaryRosarioVer-Departmentof(DOH)Offi-insistsonwearingoffacemaskitscientificallypro-70%to80%pro-againstCovid-19otherillnesses,asharedbyDr.Ront-Solante,aninfec-diseaseexpert.AnnL.RocamoraKrisCrismundo)
Jobseekers told not to post personal info in social media
“This is not the way we do the hiring of GIPs. We do not share and amplify for the world to see the personal information of the applicants in adherence to Republic Act No. 10173, otherwise known as the Data Privacy Act,” she said.
CEBU - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has warned jobseekers against some social media posts that are neither associated with nor endorsed by the agency.DOLE-7 officer-in-charge Lilia Estillore cautioned applicants against social media posts requiring them to put their personal information and other credentials in accordance with the supposed hiring of interns under the DOLE Government Internship Program (GIP) in Cebu City.
She reiterated that the country desperately needs to improve its openness and attractiveness as a destination in order to spur economic recovery and relaxing the health measure is certainly beneficial to be at par with the other countries in Asia, Europe, and North America. Frasco said Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, the rest of the European Union, and the United States have already relaxed their mask mandates.
“This is to ensure protection of the information of our jobseekers,” Estillore said, adding interested job applicants may visit the PESO in their localities or the DOLE Regional Office and its Field Offices to inquire about the GIP “Weprogram.donot promote the sharing of personal information of our program beneficiaries unless we explicitly receive their consent. Otherwise, that is prohibited by law,” she said.She said jobseekers are advised to check the DOLE-7’s official Facebook page, DOLE Region 7, and its official website - ro7.dole.gov.ph - for the latest issuances and announcements. (Ferdinand Patinio)
Cebu City is also implementing the optional face mask policy from September 1 to December 31.
The DOT cited a comparative analysis, saying relaxing mask mandates did not appear to cause an uptick in Covid-19 cases in neighboring countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and “TheIndonesia.Philippines is currently in a position wherein its existing entry and stay policies for tourists convey only a partial reopening of the country to international travel. For this reason, the Philippines is immediately at a grave disadvantage as a tourism destination vis-àvis its neighboring Asean member states because the latter, which are the Philippines’ direct tourism competitors, have all lifted their mask mandates either totally or partially,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said.
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C
The GIP is a component of the KABATAAN: 2000, which provides opportunities to beneficiaries and engages them to serve the general public in government agencies/entities’ programs and projects at the national and local level. Beneficiaries or interns will receive stipends all throughout the duration of their internship, which is a minimum of three months to a maximum of six Estilloremonths.urged them to be wary and stay vigilant as scammers and any sorts of unscrupulous individuals are becoming prevalent nowadays, who are using various social media sites to advance their ulterior motives.
Frasco said aside from Singapore, other Southeast Asian countries saw a general increase in tourist arrivals after mask mandates were liberalized. “There seems to be no direct correlation between the lifting of mask mandates and the increase in Covid-19 cases, only that the lifting of the mask mandates has served to more than double the tourist arrivals in these countries,” she said.
Two Cebu City traffic enforcers lower their face masks as they take a brief rest. President Bongbong Marcos has now allowed the voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces and non-crowded outdoor areas with adequate ventilation. (Photo by Jeng Fernandez, Cebu Examiner)
She said the DOLE-Bureau of Local Employment also issued a memorandum enjoining all regional offices including the Public Employ-
Joey Concepcion, Go Negosyo founder and Private Sector Advisory Council Jobs group lead, likewise supports the optional wearing of masks outdoors.“Nakikita natin that the optional use of face mask at iyong ginawa ng Cebu dito ay sa pananaw ko ay tama naman iyan he Concepcionsaid. said Filipinos know now how to protect themselves against Covid-19. “I think it is the right time to accept the fact that Covid-19 is going to be here for quite some time. So we cannot wear face masks outdoors all the time,” he
EBU The Department of Tourism (DOT ) welcomed the easing of the counEBU - The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the easing of the country's mask mandate, saying it would give the tourism sector a better chancemask mandate, it would the tourism sector a better chance to regain its vibrant and booming operationsto its vibrant and operations.
ment Service Offices to validate the accreditation of any GIP hiring posted on social media sites.
