The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper (October 3-9, 2022)

An Interview With The ‘Best in the

by Al Jacinto

AS A senior correspondent for The Manila Times, the oldest extant English-language newspaper in the Philippines, I was tasked to write a Q & A for our 124th Anniversary Edition. I was to choose from who among the mayors and governors in Mindanao, sadly, the mayor of Zamboanga City, John Dalipe; and the governor of the Bang-

samoro autonomous region, Murad Ebrahim, did not respond to my request for a Q & A. But I managed to get hold of the “Best in the South” and he is none other than the Honorable Governor Abdusakur Tan of Sulu province.

Below is my questionnaires and Governor Tan’s answers:

1. First of all, I want to thank

you Sulu Governor Sakur Tan for granting me this opportunity for a Q & A. This is for The Manila Times 124th Anniversary Edition with the Theme: Securing the future – Opportunities and hurdles over the horizon. My first question is: Who is Governor Sakur Tan?

Gov Tan:Gov. Tan: Despite the many offers from well-meaning per-

sonalitiesandfriendsofwriting my life’s story, there’s a tinge of hesitancy, hued by a bit of embarrassment, to talk of my person.Beingaservinggovernor,in factthelongest,intermsoftotal number of years served in that capacity,notinnormaltermsof office.

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Huge success!

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Zambo Sur ‘Number 1’ sa cigarette smuggling?

PAGADIAN CITY - Gipatin-aw sa Philippine Tobacco Institute pinaagi sa

SC tackling possible actions vs. Badoy

Taiwan accuses China of misinterpreting U.N. Resolution

TAIWAN HAS condemned China for intentionally misinterpreting a 1971 United Nations

resolution and using it as a pretext to argue against Taiwan being part of the U.N. system.

The condemnation came after a speech by Chinese Foreign Minister

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U.S., Philippines conclude training on countering threat networks

THE U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) concluded a two-year series of exchanges to enhance the capacity of Filipino military, police, and maritime personnel to identify, analyze, and counter criminal and terrorist networks that threaten

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The Supreme Court says it is deliberating possible actions against former anti-insurgency task force spokesperson Lorraine Badoy, after she made statements containing threats against Manila Regional Trial Court Judge Marlo Malagar.

The SC En Banc also sternly warns those who incite violence against judges and their families, saying this would be considered a contempt of court and will be dealt with.

The Philippines' top Continue on page 5Continue on page 5

Mandatory SIM registration bill approved

MANILA - The Senate has approved the bill requiring the registration of subscriber identity modules (SIMs) to curb Continue on page 6Continue on page 6

RESIDENT FERDINAND “Bongbong” Marcos Jr said his six day working visRESIDENT FERDINAND Marcos Jr. said his six-day visit to the United States was successful and even described his meeting withit to the United States was successful and even described his with American President Joe Biden as very significant, noting that they have talkedAmerican President Joe Biden as very that have talked on a wide range of issues in a bid to strengthen longstanding ties between Manilaon a wide range of issues in a bid to ties between Manila and Washingtonand Washington.

representante niini nga si Richard Paragas ang isyu nga nag-Number 1 ang

Zamboanga del Sur sa cigarette smuggling sa Continue on page 7Continue on page 7

PresidentBongbongMarcos

Istartedmypoliticalcareer

Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan

Huge success!

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Marcos said Biden and other leaders had expressed expressions of support to step up partnerships. “We laid out the general framework of where we are going to head with the relationship between the Philippines and the United States. I am very happy to be able to report to you that the expressions of support of President Joe Biden and our friends here in the United States have been very positive,” he said.

He also met with various heads of state,

including Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and French President Emmanuel Macron, and addressed the United Nations General Assembly where he delivered the “message of unity” before world leaders.

Marcos said he tackled global issues that require united global action, such as climate change, rising food prices, rapid technological change, the peaceful resolution of international disputes, migrant protection, and ending all forms of prejudice.

The President also shared the Philippines’ experience in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao peace process, agricultural rejuvenation, and the promotion of human rights through the UN Joint Program on Human Rights.

He likewise reiterated the Philippines’ belief in the primacy of the rule of law, as embodied by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Marcos also met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and reaffirmed the

Taiwan accuses China of misinterpreting U.N. Resolution

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Wang Yi at the United Nations recently in which he cited Resolution 2758 as a basis for Beijing's claim that Taiwan is part of China.

Wang reiterated Beijing's stance by describing Taiwan as an inseparable part of China's territory since ancient times. “Only when China is completely reunified, can there be enduring peace across the Taiwan Strait... Any move to obstruct China's reunification is bound to be crushed by the wheels of history,” he said.

According to Wang, General Assembly Resolution 2758, passed in 1971, ended the concept of two Chinas or one China and one Taiwan. “The one-China principle has become the basic norm in international relations and a consensus in the international community,” he contended. “When entering into diplomatic relations with China, 181 countries all recognized and have accepted that there is one China in the world and Taiwan is part of China.”

In response, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) called Wang’s speech a misinterpretation of the resolution, saying that Resolution 2758 only addressed the issue of China's representation at the U.N. and did not mention Taiwan at all.

The resolution not only did not authorize the PRC to represent Taiwan in the U.N. system, it did not say Taiwan was part of the PRC, MOFA said.

“The Republic of China is a democratic country with independent sovereignty,” the Ministry said, adding China has been intention-

ally abusing the resolution to pressure the U.N. into excluding Taiwanese from its system.

Resolution 2758 recognized the representatives of the PRC government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations and expelled forthwith the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the place which they unlawfully occupy at the United Nations and in all the organizations related to it.

Since then, Taiwan, which is currently diplomatically recognized by 14 states in the world, has not been a member of the U.N. and efforts to participate in U.N. affiliated organizations have been repeatedly thwarted by Beijing.

Meanwhile, MOFA charged that China’s recent military drills crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait violated the U.N. Charter, which demands that members refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

It is ironic that an authoritarian regime that claims to be a peace-loving nation has repeatedly attempted to unilaterally change the cross-Taiwan Strait status quo and peace and stability in the region, MOFA said.

The ministry said Taiwan will continue to work closely with allies and like-minded countries to jointly resist authoritarian expansion and aggression to safeguard a free and open Indo-Pacific region and rule-based world order.

Peaceful dialoguePeaceful President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

also called for continued dialogue and maximum restraint as he expressed concern over soaring tensions in Taiwan. Marcos made the remark in a speech at the Asia Society forum in New York during his state visit in the United States, where he stressed the importance of maintaining channels in order to come up with a peaceful resolution of issues.

“We urge all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint. Dialogue and diplomacy must prevail. We adhere to the One China Policy and have consistently called for the peaceful resolution of the issues involving Taiwan,” he said, referring to the diplomatic acknowledgment of China’s position that there is only one Chinese government.

Tensions over Taiwan are spiking over a visit by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, which has further strained relations between Washington and Beijing. Amid the tensions, Marcos committed to upholding peace and pushing for partnerships with its neighbors.

“We will continue to work toward strengthening ASEAN, particularly its dialogue partnerships with neighbors that uphold regional peace and security,” said Marcos.

Peace and security took center stage in Marcos’ historic speech at the United Nations General Assembly, where he reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to the fundamental principles of the United Nations of preserving peace, security, and stability among nations. (Joseph Yeh, CNA and Mindanao Examiner, OPS)

partnership between the Philippines and the UN.

“The central purpose was to speak before the United Nations General Assembly at ‘yung mensahe ko sa General Assembly, dinala ko ang mensahe ng pagkakaisa, and I called for unity on a global scale, and the response I think was very good,” said the President, who returned home recently.

“We in the Philippine delegation are one in our assessment that the work done in this trip serves as a good start for opportunities identified to be made into programs and projects to benefit the Philippines and our countrymen. And so, the work continues, but I am happy to report that we have had a very good and strong start to our efforts,” Marcos said.

“Kung ang malaking porsiyento, if the majority

of what we had discussed with our potential and present business partners and investors, kung malaking — let’s say if we can get 80 percent of what we talked about palagay ko maganda. So in that sense, I will of course, consider, I consider this trip successful,” he added.

While Marcos was elated with his meeting with Biden and discussed bilateral relationship between the two countries, Vice President Sara Duterte was all praises to China as she greeted the powerful nation for its 73rd founding anniversary on Monday, September 26.

Reading from a teleprompter, Duterte even delivered part of her message in Mandarin.

In her speech, Duterte praised China for being a generous neighbor and for assisting the Filipino economy upon recover-

ing from the health crisis. She lauded the “relentless efforts of the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China” that have propelled the country to the forefront of the economy, research and development, technology, and manufacturing.

According to Duterte, because of China’s contribution to the Asian economy, the region has become “the fastest growing economic region in the world.” She also strongly emphasized how the relationship between the two countries grew under her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. “Philippines and China relations have soared and reached new heights under the guidance of former President Duterte and President Xi (Jinping),” she said. (Mindanao Examiner, Newspaper.ph, OPS.)

An Interview With The ‘Best in the South’

by Al Jacinto

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as Councilor of Jolo, then tried and succeeded as Member oftheHouseofRepresentatives, finallyasGovernorandVicegovernor. I hold a political record as the first Governor who made a successful come back after a two-termhiatus(6years).

I was raised and bred in a family of Public Servants; my late father was a former Mayor ofMaimbung,whofellvictimto political violence while in service.Mywife,Hja.NurunisahA. TanisthedaughterofJoloMayor Aminkadra Abubakar, also thelongestservingMayorofthe Municipality. To say that I am a quintessential politician, is a compliment that I cannot agree to at this stage. We have a long roadahead.

In serving a people whose history is replete with challenges, ordeals and sacrifices in defense of a civilization, I am consciousoftheage-oldcriteriathat definetheirexpectationsofhow aleadershouldbe;i.e.–

a) Bangsawan–ofgoodusage

b) Hartwan–resourceful

c) Pahallawan–braveand courageous; expected to be at the forefront especially in times ofgravedangers.

During the turmoil of the 70s, punctuated by the burning of Jolo, there was a diaspora of people from the horrors and destruction. A number of them settled and died in lands not of their own. I can well afford to do the same, and migrate with my familyandseekmyfortuneelsewhere. But it is not in my character to abandon a friend, what more a land that nurtured me and shaped me into who I am today.

2. Having covered Sulu province the past 24 years - whether elections or strife - I am a living witness to what Sulu was then and what it is now. The Tausugs largely credited your hard work, your political experience and how you turned this once fearsome province to outsiders to a haven for investors, a safer place for everybody. What have you done to achieve all these great things, especially the improved peace and order?

Gov Tan:Gov. Tan: I do not consider the present progress and development as great. It is the very least we can do considering the limited resources we have. If one takes the time to learn and peruse Sulu and what she went through for decades, what you areseeingnowas“development” perse,areservicesthatarerighteouslylongdue.

While most part of the Philippines were benefitting from nation0building efforts of the government, Sulu was fortified asavolatileprovince,ano-man’s land,landofkidnappersandterrorists and other degrading and condescending tagging. From thesestereotyping,itisSuluwho suffered. Her name was sullied and her role in the civilization narrativesintheregionsetaside. The Bangsa Sug suffered as much,morethanmaterial.

The development efforts

nowobtaininginSulu,areinessence,make-updevelopmentto fill the lost opportunities which earned us a name as “laggards” for a situation that we, the local government and the people, have no participation, but just the same admitted or felt to admit as acquiesce, a “fait accompli.”

There were bands of troubleseekers,abandofsaboteurs, facelessandnamelessouttosow havoc and wreak destruction. I always took the position that these bands were simply “criminals” and there was no need to glorifythem.Letthelawtakeits mandated responsibilities, no matter if the heavens fall as the parlancegoes.

The National Government perhaps was preoccupied with other pressing matters, so I mobilized local ground support from communities which are frequently in the routes of the brigands and criminals. With credit to our men in uniform, they agreed to the wisdom of such a move and the relationship and shared responsibilities between the communities and the security sector were intensifiedandputintogoodpractices.

3. Having said that, what are the resources needed to achieve your vision of a long lasting peace in Sulu and other development goals for the province and its people?

Gov Tan:Gov. Tan: During the height of the pandemic, where people’smovementswererestricted, they began to take notice of the potentials that Sulu is endowed with. Taking cue from other localities,theyembarked,privately, to develop their own communities. The criminals were neutralized, to a certain degree, that the people’s fear and concerns were slowly and steadily doused.

A so-called “lasting peace” is utopic. Perhaps a sustained peace which is already showing positive results in the lives of theBangsaSug,canbeattained. Peace is indeed a catalyst for change, progress and development.JustletpeacereigninSulu andwitnesshowsheshines.

There were many players in the Sulu setting, which disrupts orderandsecurity.Weallshould be wary of encores from such spoilers. With the Provincial Government,theSecuritySector and the Communities, bonded insolidtandem,abrighterhorizonawaitsSulu.

4. What are the foreseen hurdles, obstacles and challenges to all these aspirations?

Gov Tan: Gov.Tan: Much depends on the National Government and how it stands when it comes to Sulu, being part and parcel of theBARMM,takingintoconsideration that Sulu voted NO as to itsinclusionintheregionalentity,despite.

Politics,inthecontextofthe traditionalmeaningoftheterm, willplayafactorinnation-building,fororagainst,development andprogress.Itcannotbetotallydebunkedofhowthepolitical parties, especially those in the majority, play into the workings

of the government. This is reality. How a leader or a politician cannavigatehimselfinthemaze of wheeling and dealing to secure what is best for his area of responsibility, is a barometer of leadership.

5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for Sulu?

Gov Tan: Gov.Tan:Short-termplanis howtorevivethelocaleconomy aftertheworstofthepandemic.

It is not only Sulu who is attentive to the recovery stage of the economy. Long-term plan is to maintain the refocused lens of the people towards peace and livelihood efforts. Maintaining peace as a catalyst for development will remain and should remainapriorityaftermyterm.

6. Local tourists have been flocking Sulu not only for its white sand beaches and pristine nature, but for its rich and colorful history. Many municipalities now have their own tourism programs. Cafes and restaurants are sprouting like mushrooms in different towns. What is the provincial government doing or will do to sustain this traction?

Gov Tan:Gov. Tan: Tourism or opening Sulu to the world should be prioritized, but it should not only be construed as a SOLE undertaking of governance. It should be centered only on coastal developments. The necessary infrastructures and other amenities should be available. More importantly is the participation of the community where a tourist destination is located. Thereisatrickle-downeconomy intourismandthecommunities must also be among the recipients.

Tourism development in Sulu should be planned holistically. Our people’s narratives, our culture and traditions must beincludedinthepackage.Even as we speak, the Sulu Provincial TourismOfficeiscloselycoordinatingwiththeMunicipalTourism Offices to draft a mini Tourism Plan.

7. Sulu province is well known for its 'Kahawa Sug' or native coffee, and native delicacies and its unique gastronomic cuisine. What else does Sulu have to offer? I understand that even your mangosteen are being shipped to food supplement manufacturers in Manila and Sulu's native Durian is the best in the South?

Gov Tan:Gov. Tan: Value-adding for our agro and marine products is hampered by the absence of technologies and infrastructures. These facilities are not within our capacity and capability. It rests on the national government. Our local resourcesandfundsareonlyenoughto shoulder and finance local undertakings.

Our power supply is barely enough for households needs and not sufficient to power industrialplantsandfacilities.Our farm-to-market roads are not yet maximized and so are other agro-industrial necessities, like irrigation.

8. And for my last question, what advice would you give the new generation of Tausug?

Thank you so much Governor Tan for this interview.

Gov Tan:Gov. Tan: Immerse yourself intheknowledgeofwhoyouare. Know that the blood that flows in your veins are of the same line as those of your ancestors who sacrificed for the dignity of your race. This knowledge and immersion will imbue you with thecourageandsagacitytoface challenges and tribulations that come your way.

Youmaydifferinyourworldviews from those before you, like our generation. But never forgetthatyouaretheinheritors of all our struggles. Preserve the seedofloveandcareinyourvery being for Sulu and the Bangsa Sug.

And finally, let me congratulate The Manila Times for its 124thanniversarycelebration.

The Manila Times was founded on October 11, 1898 by Thomas Gowan, an Englishman who had been living in the Philippines. The paper was created to serve mainly the Americans who were sent to Manila to fight in the Spanish–American War. At the time, most of the newspapers in the Philippines were in Spanish and a few others were in the native languages. Shortly after the paper's founding, reports reached Manila about the Paris Conference that would lead to the treaty ceding the Philippines to the United States from Spain.

The first issue of The Manila Times on October 11, 1898 had a sheet of two leaves, or four pages, measuring about 12 by 8 inches, each page divided into two columns. The first page was taken up by announcements and advertisements. Page 2 was the editorial page. It contained the editorials and the more important news of the day. Page 3 was devoted to cable news from Europe and the United States all

bearing on the Spanish–American War.

In 1899, George Sellner acquired The Manila Times from Gowan, who joined the paper as business manager. In 1902, an American businessman acquired The Manila Times, reacquired by Sellner in 1905. In 1907, Thomas C. Kinney acquired The Manila Times from Sellner.

On July 25, 1914, TheManila Times moved its headquarters from the Escolta Street to the Cosmopolitan Building.

In 1919, future Philippine President during the Commonwealth period Manuel L. Quezon acquired The Manila Times and he owned until 1921, when sugar magnate George Fairchild acquired the paper. In 1926, Jacob Rosenthal acquired The ManilaTimes from Fairchild.

On December 10, 1928, the Cosmopolitan Building was destroyed by a fire and The Manila Times headquarters were moved to Intramuros. On March 15, 1930, The Manila Times was shut down for the first time until 1945, when the paper re-opened after World War II and was later sold to Chino Roces.

By 1950, The Manila Times becomes the largest newspaper in the Philippines.

The current president and chief executive officer (CEO) and executive editor is Dante Francis "Klink" Ang II. On May 1, 2017, its chairman emeritus Dante Arevalo Ang was appointed by then Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as special envoy of the President for international public relations. (The author is the Editor-in-Chief of The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper. He has been with The Manila Times for almosttwodecadesnowcovering Mindanao.)

Urgent government action needed to tackle extreme inequality in Asia

A QUARTER of wealth in Asia is concentrated in the hands of the wealthy one percent, as the region faces a crisis of extreme inequality exacerbated by the disproportional COVID-19 related health and economic impacts–according to an Oxfam report published recently.

India has the highest level of income inequality in Asia, followed by Lao, Indonesia, and Hongkong, SAR China. Asian countries are also marked by high disposable income inequality with Sri Lanka performing the worst followed by Indonesia, India, Tajikistan, and the Philippines.

John Samuel, Regional Director of Oxfam in Asia, said: “We are witnessing an explosion of inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased inequality across Asia by about eight percent. While the pandemic pushed the number of Asians living in poverty to 1.4 billion, the billionaires pocketed an additional wealth of US$ 1.8 trillion.”

The brief, ASIA’S EXTREME INEQUALITY CRISIS: BUILDING BACK FAIRER AFTER COVID-19 (link: https://www.oxfam.org/en/research/criasia-briefing) – launched during a civil society event of the Asian Development Bank 55th Annual meeting of the board of directors - highlighted that

Asian governments have taken inadequate and ineffective action to combat the rise in inequality, and face constrained policy choices as debt burdens grow and post-COVID austerity begins.

The brief uses data from the Commitment to Reducing Inequality (CRI) Index. Developed by Oxfam and Development Finance International (DFI), the index tracks policy performance of countries on public services, progressive taxation and labor rights.

The Oxfam brief highlighted that reducing inequality is a matter of political choice not a matter of wealth; some lower-income countries like Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia and Tajikistan have been effective in reducing inequality.

Asian countries perform poorly in provision of public services, spending a very small share of their national budgets on education, health, and social protection. Only 43% of Asia’s citizens have access to any social protection benefits.

Asia’s taxation system relies heavily on collections from VAT and sales taxes, which often exacerbate inequality. Emerging and developing Asia’s tax systems are increasing inequality by 1.4%.

With Myanmar, Bangladesh, and the Philip-

pines ranked 3 out of 10 worst countries in the world for labour rights, legal adoption of and respect for union rights remain poor in Asia. Asia also includes 3 of the worst countries for women’s labor rights, Singapore, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan.

Debt has risen sharply in Asia to fund COVID responses. Debt service is three times as much as health spending and 7 times as the social protection spending, and the international community’s response in terms of debt relief has been marginal. To repay debts and reduce budget deficits, 25 of the 28 Asian countries are forced to cut spending by 3% of GDP till 2027. Such austerity needs to end to protect Asian countries against future pandemics and reduce inequality.

The report urges countries to produce National Inequality Reduction Action Plans to address inequality in the post-COVID world and reject austerity and enhance the incomes of the poorest by increasing pro-poor public spending, progressive taxation and workers’ rights and pay. Panelists from the ADB, DFI and Carleton University discussed the urgent need to implement progressive policies to tackle inequality in Asia during the event. (Mindanao Examiner)

SC tackling possible actions vs. Badoy

Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 court initiated the proceedings on its own against the former National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict spokesperson, after Badoy accused Malagar of “lawyering” for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's

Army (CPP-NPA) and made threats.

“If I kill this judge and I do so out of my political belief, then please be lenient with me,” Badoy said in a Facebook post.

The judge recently dismissed the government's bid to declare the CPPNPA as terrorists, based on

the Human Security Act of 2007. Badoy also suggested that Malagar's husband, UP Cebu Chancellor Leo Malagar, was a cadre in his youth.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines and the Philippine Judges Association condemned Badoy's statements. (One News)

U.S., Philippines conclude training on countering threat networks

Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 peace and security in the Philippines.

It said over the course of six analytic workshops and subject matter expert exchanges, the Counter Threat Network (CTN) operational exchange and capacity building program gathered intelligence personnel from the Armed Forces Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Coast Watch Center (NCWC) to exchange knowledge and best practices on understanding and engaging networks of violent extremist organizations, insurgent groups, and criminal entities. Participants also gained information on threat network analysis, threat visualization, critical capabilities analysis, and producing actionable intelligence reports.

These efforts are part of a broader security cooperation agreement established to enhance the integration of intelligence and operations against threat networks in a multidomain environment, according to DTRA.

“Part of the CTN series that was most significant is the collaboration and operational exchange of the AFP, PNP and NCWC personnel. With this activity, participants were able to establish networks and exchange knowledge and skills in achieving a common goal,” said NCWC Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Jeffrey Abasolo.

“We are proud of the participants’ accomplishments in gaining a diverse set of analytic and critical thinking approaches to counter these complex networks. They are well prepared to pass these skills on to their counterparts,” said DTRA Partner Engagement Division Educational Strategies Lead Mila Nieves.

According to DTRA Partner Engagement Division Chief Steve Greene, this latest exchange represents another example of the partnership between the U.S. Department of Defense and its counterparts in the Philippines. “After six different workshops and over one hundred student interactions, we can say that we have shared a mutually beneficial

learning experience where both countries have gained from the interaction and improved their ability to operate together to prevent and reduce threats. We look forward to continued opportunities for collaboration,” Greene said.

In August, the DTRA, a combat support agency within the U.S. Department of Defense for countering weapons of mass destruction, also trained over two dozen Filipino emergency personnel on how to respond to chemical, biological, radioactive, and nuclear (CBRN) incidents.

Members of the DTRA trained the members of the Bureau of Fire Protection and personnel of the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. The training courses focused on emergency response to mass casualty events involving CBRN components, addressing risks that first responders face, and using specialized equipment to determine the type of chemical or material present during a CBRN incident. (Mindanao Examiner)

DOST launches new MSME project

TANGUB CITY - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Misamis Occidental province launched a project to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) improve their food products for enhanced market competitiveness.

Dubbed as “MSMEs Improved Services and Operations for Competitiveness of Communities thru Food Innovation Convergence (MISOCC-FIC),” the P1.9 million is funded by the DOST.

Part of the project is to capacitate the Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology (NMSCST) as a training and skills provider to local MSMEs. The facility will also serve as the Food Technology laboratory for students enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology major in Food Technology.

NMSCST College President Dr. Herbert Glenn Reyes said this project will be a great help for MSMEs, their school and the community. “The

ribbon cutting of MSMEs Improved Services and Operations for Competitiveness of Communities thru Food Innovation Convergence project signifies the start of a strong bond between the institution and community in helping each other for the advancement of food technology and research with the active intervention of DOST,” he said.

DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations and OIC-Regional Director Engr. Sancho Mabborang emphasized the importance of concerted efforts towards the realization of the vision, mission, goals and objective not only in the community but in the country as well.

“I have given instruction to my regional director to look into areas of engagement from the perspective of the industry, universities and the local government units. With this we hope that people will be able to realize the importance of what Science, Technology and Innovation can

be to them, bringing progress anchored on Science Education Institute,” he said.

Provincial Science and Technology Office Director Eufresnie Ann Simbajon said the NMCST and DOST have always been good partners in science, technology and innovation initiatives with the support of LGU Tangub. “With the establishment of the food innovation convergence in Tangub City, we are aiming for extended shelf-life products, reduction of food spoilage and rejects and also increase production of varied food products with our local MSMEs,” she said.

Among the equipment housed at MISOCC-FIC are spray dryer and vacuum fryer equipment developed by the DOST-Metals Industry and Development Center. MISOCC Food Innovation Convergence is a venue for local residents to develop their ideas and concepts in the field of food processing into innovative and marketable products. (Shaine Mae Nagtalon)

Troops recover ammo, gun parts in Basilan

BASILAN - Government troops pursuing Abu Sayyaf terrorists in the troubled province of Basilan have recovered ammunition for machine gun, gun parts and assorted bandoliers, including a uniform of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Soldiers from the 18th Infantry Battalion and members of the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion, 4th Special Forces Battalion and the 12th Division Reconnaissance Company were deployed in the hinterlands of Ungkaya Pukan town where the war materiel was found.

Among those seized by soldiers was a rocket propelled grenade launcher, a shot gun, 40mm rifle grenade, and a radio transceiver.

“Operating troops continue to scour the area to ensure that all war materials are recovered and safely kept,” said Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

Abu Sayyaf terrorists raided an army post of the 18th Infantry Battalion and killed three soldiers in a daring attack Thursday, September 15, in the town of Al-Barka, about 21 kilometers from Ungkaya Pukan.

The raiders led by Abaas Jangkatan attacked the detachment at Hill 50

in the village of Magcawa. The terrorists fled after the attack, but troops were sent to pursue the raiders. It was not immediately known whether the Abu Sayyaf carted the soldiers’ weapons or not.

Jangkatan was among over a dozen notorious Abu Sayyaf terrorists condemned and declared “persona no grata” by leaders of nine villages in Lamitan City and Tipo-Tipo town in October 2019.

The other terrorists

were Adzuan Kajing, Boga Aya, Botak Kerok, Ernie Arasal, Iba Anjabin, Tonton Anjabin, Said Lahaman, Kamat Arasal, Jerwin Sahasal, Jimmy Asmawil, Jerry Harain, Nul Akil, Abdul Akil, Madeh Akil and Nur Asao. According to the 18th Infantry Battalion, the group of Jangkatan is involved in atrocities in the different parts of the province and is also involved in the illegal drug trade. (Mindanao Examiner)

Organic Kopi Luwak or Civet coffee isn’t really pricey

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 connoisseur thinks.

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 Manila, a kilogram of Civet coffee sells for as high as P15,000 and over $500 dollars abroad.

But Kopi Luwak can now be enjoyed by every coffee lover 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.

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.

Mindanao Civet Coffee, which started as a backyard reseller of coffee beans, now offers organic Kopi Luwak in 250 grams ground Civet coffee and 250 grams

Civet coffee beans – all medium roasted to perfection.

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 want 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 0915-3976197. (AJC)

Mandatory SIM registration bill approved

Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 mobile-phone aided crimes in the country.

Senate Bill (SB) No. 1310 or the proposed “SIM Registration Act” hurdled the upper chamber on third and final reading with 20 affirmative votes, and no negative votes or abstention from senators.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Grace Poe, chairperson of the Senate committee on public services, is the first legislative measure passed by the upper chamber in the 19th Congress.

Re-filed in the 19th Congress, the measure seeks to regulate the registration and use of SIMs by mandating subscribers to register with telecommunication entities before SIMs are activated. Existing subscribers must also register or risk deactivating or retiring their SIMs.

Registration includes the submission of full name, date of birth and address of end-users, as well as valid government-issued identification cards to verify their identity.

SB 1310 also prohibits “spoofing,” or the act of transmitting misleading or inaccurate information about the source of phone call or text messages to defraud, cause harm or wrongfully obtain anything of value.

The bill also penalizes the sale of stolen SIMs.

Telecom firms, on the other hand, would be tasked to keep the subscribers’ information in a database, while the Department of Information

and Communications Technology shall conduct an annual audit of their compliance with information security standards.

All submitted information is absolutely confidential but may be disclosed if a competent authority subpoenas them for an investigation of a crime or a malicious, fraudulent or unlawful act committed using a specific mobile number.

“Finally, we can now do something aside from just ignoring, deleting or blocking the numbers with fraudulent or spam messages. We have now in our hands the means to unmask criminals who have been hiding for so long under the protection of anonymity, and to bring them to justice,” Poe said.

“Each day without the law, someone gets victimized. Scammers spare no one. We must stop them in their tracks,” she said as she called on telecom companies to also fight text scams.

Globe Telecom has more than 87 million subscribers while Smart Telecommunication has over 70 million, and Dito with only 1 million subscribers.

The bill was first in-

troduced during President Rodrigo Duterte’s term following the emergence of so-called pro-Duterte “troll farms” on social media, especially even before the 2016 presidential election. But Duterte rejected the bill over concerns that this will give rise to a situation of dangerous state intrusion and surveillance. Duterte vetoed the proposed law over the inclusion of social media registration.

The provision requiring social media networks to compel their users to provide their real name and phone numbers when creating accounts was included by lawmakers during the bicameral conference meetings on the bill. The measure also penalizes people who use fictitious identities to register for social media accounts with a fine of up to P200,000, jail time of at least six years or both.

Lawmakers passed the measure in an attempt to address terrorism, text scams, bank fraud and defamation online, but internet freedom advocates said this bill will violate Filipinos’ right to privacy. (Mindanao Examiner)

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Photos released by the Western Mindanao Command show the recovered war materiel from Basilan's Ungkaya Pukan town where troops are pursuing Abu Sayyaf terrorists.

6

BIFF members yield in South

COTABATO CITY - The Philippine military said six members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters had surrendered in Ampatuan town in the restive Muslim province of Maguindanao in the South.

The surrender also coincided with the attack of a group of soldiers in Picong t0wn in the neighboring province of Lanao del Sur. The ambush on a patrolling Marine unit wounded at least three soldiers.

The Western Mindanao Command said among those who surrendered was a commander identified only by his alias “King Fahad.” Lt. Col. Samuel Nadala, Jr., commander of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, handed over the group to Col. Oriel Pangcog, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade.

Pangcog did not elaborate details of the surrender but said the former

rebels were given an unspecified amount of cash as part of the military’s assistance. He said the former Muslim extremists, who handed over six assorted rifles, will also be provided with more government aids.

From January to September, a total of 178 BIFF members had yielded to the task force.

Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command, commended the 2nd Mechanized Infan-

try Battalion and the task force for their efforts in convincing rebels to surrender peacefully. “The troops are now reaping the fruits of their efforts and sacrifices,” he said.

The BIFF is a breakaway faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which is still fighting for the establishment of a caliphate in Mindanao. Its leaders have pledged allegiance with ISIS and launched a violent campaign in the southern region. (Mindanao Examiner)

Councilman murdered

ISABELA CITY - A lone gunman shot dead a village councilor in the seaside city of Isabela in the troubled Muslim province of Basilan in southern Philippines.

Police said the recent attack killed the 45-year old Kennedy Indal Buhali along Strong Boulevard in the village called Port Area.

Buhali, a council member in the village of Tampalan in Malamawi Island, was outside a roadside eatery owned by his cousin when the gunmen

shot him several times from behind, according to Maj. Shellamie Chang, a regional police spokeswoman.

“Initial investigation disclosed that prior to the incident, the victim was outside a small eatery of his cousin located at Strong Boulevard when an unidentified suspect shot the victim several times hitting his back that resulted in his untimely death,” Chang said without elaborating further.

She said police inves-

tigators recovered four pieces of cartridges from a .45-caliber pistol from the scene. “Police are investigating the killing to determine the motive and for the identity and arrest of the suspect,” she said.

Buhali’s family did not release any statement. Gun attacks are not uncommon in Basilan, one of five provinces under the Bangsamoro autonomous region, due to the presence of hired killers and rebel groups. (Mindanao Examiner)

Zambo Sur ‘Number 1’ sa cigarette smuggling?

to kang Gov. Victor Yu tungod sa inisyatiba niini nga momugna og usa ka Task Force nga maoy motutok sa problema sa cigarette smuggling sa lalawigan pinasikad sa Provincial Ordinance 0512021. Pagpasabot ni Paragas, dako ang mawala sa panudlanan sa gobyerno resulta sa iligal nga sigarilyo tungod kay wala kini magbayad og buwis nga angay untang isustinir sa mga serbisyo sa gobyerno sama sa educational ug medical services lakip na ang pag-implementar sa Universal Health Care.

The Virtue of Forgiveness

by Engr. Carlos V. Cornejo (Cebu)

“LIVING A life of unforgiveness is like driving your car with your parking brake on. It causes you to slow down and lose your momentum. And you end up tired and worn-out.” (John Mason) Holding a grudge is like having a termite inside you. It will little by little eat you up until it resorts to revenge. And revenge is a great deceiver. It is supposed to settle the anger inside you but it only makes things worse. It looks sweet, but its fruit is bitter. Revenge will never give you peace only justice does. It always costs more to avenge a wrong than to bear it.

We often hear of murder and killings in the news of because of some unsettled “grudge” that one party had over the other because of some name calling or one person got insulted over something. Some can’t get over an offense because their pride in the guise of “honor” or “reputation” has been tainted, so it has to be somehow restored. Many times, the offending party would not acknowledge their offense. Offended party then gets more angry and eventually resorts to revenge.

In any conflict, if the offended party just knows how to forgive then there will be peace. Without forgiveness, life will be governed by an endless cycle of resentment and retaliation. If you have been the offended party and you are waiting for the one who offended you to say sorry but would not do so, the right response is still to forgive. But what if the offense is too grave, or criminal in nature? Then we should let the rule of law render justice. If he or she has to be imprisoned so as to protect society itself from further harm, then we should apply this virtue. The person has become a danger to society and to himself, thus he or she needs to be restrained and be reformed. Not to do so would be a sin of omission on our part for failing to correct others on a grave matter. But nevertheless, we forgive. Forgiveness can go hand in hand with justice. We can seek justice

without being outraged and hating the person who wronged us.

I know of a story for example in Mindoro many years ago of a politician whose two sons were murdered by his political rival. The father of the boys is a devout Christian but he wanted to strike back. He was advised by his brothers in the community not to do so, telling him, “Our immediate response as followers of Christ is always to forgive. We let the authorities serve justice but we always have to forgive.”

“Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Our Lord Jesus Christ made it a requirement to forgive our fellow humans before we can be forgiven by God. It is rightly so because if we don’t know how to forgive, that means we don’t have the concept of mercy in our hearts. If we don’t have mercy in us, then we would not ask mercy from God or from others when it is our turn to ask for mercy. Thus, it was a brilliant move by God to require us to be merciful on others first so as to acquire mercy from God. This was clearly illustrated in the story of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21-34).

The king forgave the servant when he felt pity on him who was about to be sold along with his wife and children in order to pay for his debt. The Gospel says the servant fell down, did homage in pleading the king to be patient with him while promising to pay the debt in full. When the king felt pity and cancelled all his loan, a little detail we could notice was that, the servant never said a word of gratitude to the king after this huge favor. It was a sign that the servant never really had the spirit of mercy in his heart. Thus, later on when it was his turn to be merciful to his fellow servant who owed some money from him, he had none of it to give. That’s why the master cancelled his previous mercy for this wicked servant, and have him tortured until he was able to pay back what he owed.

Charity should animate our zeal

by Fr. Roy Cimagala (Cebu)

WE should see to it that our zeal to do the things of God is always animated by charity. Without charity, that zeal would do us more harm than good. It would be a zeal that defeats the purpose of serving God.

We are reminded of this danger in the gospel when some of the apostles told Christ to rain fire on those who did not welcome him who was then passing by a certain town on his way to Jerusalem. (cfr. Lk 9,54) Christ had to tell them, “You know not of what spirit you are. The Son of man came not to destroy souls, but to save.” (Lk 9,55-56)

When the zeal is not animated by charity, it can only mean that that zeal is not righteous, that it does not channel the zeal of Christ who himself once said, “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!” (Lk 12,49) It would be a zeal that would only satisfy one’s own desires. It is a self-righteous zeal that often is marked by bitterness and recklessness.

if only to study things well and come out with a good action plan.

When we have a charity-animated zeal, we would always end up energized and optimistic in spite of the great effort and sacrifice that may be involved. It would be zeal that is self-perpetuating, since it would be fueled more by the grace of God than by our mere efforts.

We have to be careful with the phenomenon that is called bitter zeal. It is the wrong zeal of intending to do good but discarding the requirements and details of charity. It is Machiavellian in spirit.

Bitter zeal makes a person hasty and reckless in his assessment of things. It makes him fail to consider all angles, to listen to both sides, so to speak. He is prone to imprudence.

Continued from page 1Continued from page 1

tibuok Pilipinas. Sa pakighinabi ni Provincial Information Officer Jeesrel Himang kang Paragas, gipaklaro niini ang basehan sa gipagawas nga datos sa Kantar Survey. Matud pa niya nga ang gisukod sa maong survey ang presensya sa mga smuggled cigarettes sa mga tindahan sa probinsya ilabina sa Pagadian City nga

maoy center of trade ug dili ang smuggling activity nga nahitabo sa lalawigan.

Gisaysay ni Paragas nga majority sa mga gisurvey sa Kantar mao ang mga tindahan sa Pagadian City ilabina sa Agora Public Market ug ubang barangay sa siyudad.

Subling gipahayag ni Paragas ang pagpasalamat sa Bureau of Customs ug ang industriya sa tabako ngad-

Pagpadayag sa provincial government, ang pakigkumbati kontra-smuggling dili lamang kaakuhan sa mga law enforcers apan lakip na sa matag local governments ug sa katawhan nga maoy dakong susi sa pagsulbad sa maong iligal nga binuhatan.

Kahinumdoman nga ang Zamboanga del Sur ang usa sa nahimong ehemplo sa tibuok nasud, isip aktibong probinsya nga nakigbatok kontra cigarette smuggling.

The zeal that is animated by charity is always marked by patience, understanding, compassion, magnanimity. And while it can connote quickness of action, it is also very much compatible with prudence. While it is clear about its focus or goal, which is the glorification of God and salvation and sanctification of man, it is willing to adapt to the way people are. It is quite versatile.

This aspect of the zeal proper to us is very relevant these days since we are bombarded with so many things and have to contend with so many confusing developments. A proper amount of restraint and moderation is needed

Inflammatory, incendiary words are his main weapons. Being belligerent is his style. He relishes in rousing controversies and sowing intrigues. He’s actually not as interested in looking for the objective truth and justice as in carrying out his own personal cause.

He is prone to keeping resentments and to being unable to forget the perceived wrongs done on him. He finds it hard to understand, much less, forgive others in their mistakes. He likes to exact vengeance of the tit-for-tat type, evil for evil.

We have to learn the art of loving with the love of God as shown by Christ on the cross. It is a love that is patient, willing to suffer for others. It is gratuitously given, even if it is not reciprocated. We have to make sure that we are always burning with the zeal of love!

OPINION

A photo released by the Western Mindanao Command shows the six BIFF members who surrendered in Maguindanao province.

Pictures in the News

Photos from the Office of the Sulu Provincial Governor, Jaques Tutong, Maimbung Municipal Government,

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

Cebu

Zamboanga Newspaper Dealer

Villamero’s Enterprises

Gwen orders illegal cottages demolished

Garcia gave the cottages’ owners and operator until October 5 to dismantle the structures.

“Ug tinguha nako nga magpa-cute lang ko, ngano gud intawn ako paning labdan sa ulo? Ngano gud intawn magpakita pako nga nasuko nako? Kay dili na unya mo ganahan nako kay dili nako ma-cute. Pero unsa may inyong gusto: cute-cute lang ang gobernador, o gobernador nga nagtan-aw sa inyong kaayohan; gilantaw ang ato gayud kaugmaon?” Gov. Garcia told the cottage operators during a recent meeting.

Garcia announced that the provincial government will give financial assistance worth P10,000 to each of the 73 owners of floating cottages and the 54 owners of fixed cottages. At least 16 stall owners along the port area of Bantayan Bay in Poblacion, which was also ordered demolished, will likewise

receive P10,000 each from the provincial government.

Moreover, some 147 boat operators whose livelihood will be affected by the order will also receive P5,000. The local government of Cordova will also give the same amount.

Those who would voluntarily demolish their cottages and stalls will be eligible to receive another P10,000 from the Capitol, but this time it would be in the form of “Sugbo Negosyo” cards which they could redeem from Capitol’s partner merchants in order to start afresh another business venture.

Mayor Cesar Suan also announced that the local government will give one sack of rice for all affected stakeholders; as well as P5,000 each for cottage owners and P2,000 each for boat operators.

Garcia’s order came just days after the Department of Health (DOH) Regional Direc-

tor Dr. Jaime Bernadas issued a health warning on public swimming and other similar activities within the coastal waters of Cordova due to the presence of fecal coliform bacteria which have reached alarming levels.

This was consistent with the findings of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau released on August 10 which showed that the level of fecal coliform in the areas where cottages are located ranged from 170 – 2,400 MPN per 100 ml. The allowable level of fecal coliform for coastal waters safe for recreational activities is at 100 MPN per 100 ml.

Investigations also revealed that the existence of cottages in Poblacion and Catarman were the primary contributor of waste. The cottages, which sit on an area of 33 hectares, have been attracting an influx of tourists; yet cottage

operators did not have proper waste management system and admitted to dumping human and other wastes into the sea.

Aside from violating several laws such as Water Code of the Philippines; the Water Code of the Province of Cebu; Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004; the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines; and The Tourism Act of 2009, among others, cottage operators also failed to

secure environmental compliance certificate from DENR and mayor’s permit, and are not paying any form of taxes from their lucrative income.

Garcia also issued two executive orders prohibiting any further construction of structures and the immediate stoppage of operations of Cordova’s fixed and floating cottages. The Capitol is working closely with the local government of Cor-

dova to craft a more comprehensive ecotourism plan that is more environment-friendly and sustainable for future generations.

“Di nato patyon ang gangsa nga nangitlog sa bulawan nga itlog,” the governor said of Cordova’s rich marine harvest. “Ato na gyud nga panalipdan. This should be an ecotourism project,” Garcia said. (Sugbo News)

Cebu diocese’s pioneering exorcist is dead

CEBU - Monsignor Frederick Kriekenbeek, one of the leading exorcists of the Catholic Church in Cebu, has died at the age of 90.

His death was announced by the Archdiocese of Cebu in a Facebook post on Tuesday, September 27. “We humbly ask all the lay faithful to offer special prayers for his eternal rest,” the Archdiocese said.

LANDBANK vows strong support for Cebu’s livelihood program

CEBU - The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) strengthened its ties with the Provincial Government and vowed its continued support for Cebu’s Enhanced Countryside Development (ECD) Program for farmers and fisherfolk.

LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Borromeo met recently with Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, together with LANDBANK Executive Vice President Liduvino Geron,

Corporate Banking Group Head, Senior Vice President Celeste Burgos, East Visayas Branches Group Head, Senior Vice President Khurshid Kalabud, and Visayas Lending Group OIC, Vice President Allan Bisnar, among other LANDBANK officials.

The LANDBANK said it has an ongoing partnership with the Provincial Government under the ECD Program to finance the agricultural production of local farmers and fisherfolk, especially those who are resid-

ing in underdeveloped areas in Cebu.

The program, it said, also offers capital to expand or restart existing businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, among others.

Since the initial roll-out of the ECD Program in March 2021, LANDBANK has approved loans for 767 farmers and fisherfolk engaged in the production of swine, high-value crops, and fisheries in the province. (Richard Ebona)

No other details were made available by the Church.

Kriekenbeek served many parishes until he founded the

religious sisters, Living the Gospel Community, and religious brothers, Mary’s Little Children Community.

He served as episcopal vicar of Catholic charismatic groups in the Cebu archdiocese for a

number of years and was one of the pioneering exorcists in the Archdiocese of Cebu.

Exorcisms can only be performed by someone holding the Melchizedek priesthood, the higher of the two priesthoods of the Church, and can be performed by anyone holding that priesthood, however they are generally performed by bishops, missionaries, mission presidents, or stake presidents. (Ferdinand Patinio)

Cebu Pacific to resume Kota Kinabalu route

CEBU - Low-cost airline Cebu Pacific (CEB) said would resume its services between Manila and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia beginning October 31.

CEB stopped operating the Kota Kinabalu route in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Flights from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport will be every Monday and Friday at 11:25 p.m., while return flights from Kota Kinabalu are Tuesday and

Saturday at 2:35 a.m.

Those bound for Malaysia are required to download the MySejahtera app, register and indicate their coronavirus risk status. Everyone exiting the Philippines, on the other hand, should print and fill out the Immigration form before their flight schedule.

“As more destinations ease travel restrictions, flying back to the country has been made convenient for boosted individuals.

They no longer need to submit a Covid-19 test results upon check-in,” said CEB chief commercial officer Xander Lao.

The carrier said it now operates 88% of its pre-pandemic capacity, and currently services 34 domestic and 19 international destinations. At least 95 percent of its crew have already received booster shots against Covid-19. (Maria Cristina Arayata)

Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia with LANDBANK officials led by Executive Vice President Liduvino S. Geron.

CEBU Governor Gwen Garcia has ordered dozens of owners and operators of fixed and floating

EBU - Governor Gwen Garcia has ordered dozens of owners and operators of fixed and cottages in the town of Cordova to demolish their illegal structures following the alarming prescottages in the town of Cordova to demolish their structures the presence of fecal coliform in the areaence area.

Gov. Gwen Garcia gestures as she speaks during a meeting with Cordova cottage owners and operators. (Photo by Junjie Mendoza)