Philippine Muslim Today by Philippine Muslim Today

World Muslims unity farfetched but not impossible Editorial | Page A4

The Tabó and Tazkiyah

The problem of edema

BARMM should hire Arabicspeaking youth

Malaysia illegally annexed Sabah

Mehol K. Sadain | Page A5

Benj Bangahan | Page A7

Abdul Hannan Tago | Page A6

Julmunir I. Jannaral | Page A5

Eid’l Adha Mubarak! Bearer of

Glad Tidings

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 13, 2020 (Dhu’l (Dhu’l--Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

| 12 Pages | Philippines

Sulu Sultan pushes ‘Sabah Claim’ By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL Managing Editor

he reigning ruler of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) is pushing his claim over Sabah following exchanges of contention in social media between the Philippines and Malaysia respective foreign affairs chiefs.

Sultan Muedzul-Lail Tan

Inside A11

A12

The Best of Halal Home-Cooked Muslim Filipino Dishes

Sultan Muedzul-Lail Tan Kiram told Philippine Muslim Today that he has decided to revive the Sabah Claim after Malaysia Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein angrily reacted to Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. who said Sabah is “rightfully its Kiram own.” (Full story on Page A2)

NCMF thanks Gov. Bombit for helping Muslims in Caraga region By ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL YAHYA

Islamic Finance Questions and Answers

Lanao del Sur Provincial Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. (right) receives the plaque of appreciation from NCMF Regional Director Monaim Guro. Also in the photo is Sarah B. Guro of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Development. (RSP) (Full story on Page A5)

News

Sultan of Sulu to revive Sabah Claim; asserts sovereignty, proprietary rights

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

Bangsamoro Gov’t has sent home all 405 BaSulTa bound LSIs

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL Managing Editor

ARUL JAMBANGAN, Maimbung, Lupah Sug: The reigning ruler of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) vowed to revive the Sultanate’s claim over Sabah. Sultan Muedzul-Lail Tan Kiram, the 35th reigning monarch who succeeded his late father Sultan Mahakuttah Abdulla Kiram told the Philippine Muslim Today that he has decided to revive the Sabah Claim after what happened to the Twitter post of Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. that Sabah is “rightfully its own.”

ALL ABOARD: A total of 96 LSIs (locally stranded individuals) bound for the island provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are boarding the inter-Island boat MV Lady Mary Joy-3 this week at the Polloc Port in Parang, Maguindanao. (Bureau of Public Information-BARMM)

Sulu Sultanate extent to Sabah. This has angered Malaysian Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein as published by Borneo Today. Speaking from Wisma Putra at Kementerian Luar Negeri (KLN) in Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur, he said Locsin’s tweet that Sabah is not in Malaysia was “irresponsible” and would affect bilateral ties. Minister Hussein stressed that “Sabah is, and will always be, part of Malaysia.” However, Locsin in his reply on his Twitter account said, “No country can tell another what it can and cannot say about what the latter regards as rightfully its own.” To the rescue of the Foreign Affairs Secretary Sultan Kiram came to the rescue of Foreign Affairs Secretary Locsin. He said Malaysian Foreign Affairs Minister Hishamuddin has relied not only on fake news but on fake historical account as well. He said perhaps KLN Minister Hishamuddin must go back to the basic; educate himself of true history not the fake history which they teach their children about Sabah. “On the other hand, Foreign Affairs Secretary Locsin knows that Sultan Esmail E. Kiram (my grandfather) entrusted North Borneo now Sabah through the transfer of sovereignty to the Philippines in 1962. If Locsin brings this matter to the (US) State Department, certainly the agenda on the Sultanate of Sulu will be tackled,” stressed the

Sultan. In a nutshell, Sultan Kiram thanked the Foreign Affairs Secretary of the Philippines for asserting the ancestral rights of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo. “We sincerely thank Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin, Jr. for helping assert our ancestral rights. We hope the government of Malaysia understands the plight of the thousands of underprivileged and indigenous families of Sulu who barely survive in Sabah specially during this pandemic,” Sultan Kiram said. Sabah continues to be our ancestral lands The 35th Sultan of Sulu also emphasized that “North Borneo (Sabah) is and will always be part of the ancestral land of our people. The people of Sulu have lived in these islands for more than 600 years and will continue to do so in the centuries to come.” In fact, His Majesty’s grandfather, the late Sultan Moh. Esmail Enang Kiram, was recognized by the Philippine government in 1957 as officially written on public records. Through him, the people of Sulu transferred the rights of North Borneo under the government of President Diosdado Macapagal in 1962. However the said transfer of rights over North Borneo or Sabah had never lawfully ceded to the Republic of the Philippines, and therefore remains a sovereign and in-

dependent state. The late Sultan Moh. Mahakuttah Abdulla Kiram, His Majesty’s father, and his own position as the Crown Prince of Sulu was made official through Memorandum Order No. 427 issued by the Office of the President the late Ferdinand E. Marcos in 1974. Since the demise of Sultan Mahakuttah in 1986 and despite limited resources, His Majesty has been busy working for his people as heir to the Sulu legacy. Prime Minister Amroussi Rasul supports revival of Sabah Claim As this developed, Amroussi Rasul, the son of the late Ambassador Abraham Rasul, who was the Prime Minister and Wazir to the 34th Sultan Mahakuttah Kiram, said they are fully supporting the revival of the Sabah Claim. Amroussi who succeeded his father Ambraham is now the Prime Minister to Sultan Muedzul-Lail and also told the Philippine Muslim Today that as they extend their full support to the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) they are hoping that the revival of the Sabah Claim will be fully supported by President Rodrigo R. Duterte through Foreign Affairs Secretary Locsin. Finally Sultan MuedzulLail also called on the international community to intervene so that the bloody war that happened in 2013 in Lahad Sulu Sultan | A3

OTABATO City: A total of 96 stranded residents bound for the island provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi have boarded the MV Lady Mary Joy-3 this week at the Polloc Port in Parang, Maguindanao. According to the Bureau of Public Information (BPI) this means that the Bangsamoro Government has successfully sent home all 405 Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) to their respective provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Among of the 96 individuals, 45 tested negative for Covid-19, while the remaining 51 who tested positive have already recovered. All of them have completed the 14days quarantine in the isolation facilities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). It can be recalled that the 405 LSIs from Manila were originally bound for the BaSulTa island provinces but were rerouted to Cagayan de Oro City on July 7. The Bangsamoro Government hired 17 buses to take them to Zamboanga City, which should have been the nearest port of entry to the island provinces. However, due to circumstances beyond the control of the Bangsamoro Government, the buses had to be rerouted to Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. Interior and Local Government Minister lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, during the sending off ceremony, assured the LSIs of their safe return to their respective provinces. “Part of our preparation for your return is our time to time coordination with the local government units (LGUs),” Sinarimbo said. “When you arrive in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, you will be welcomed by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management officer (PDRRMO) and Local Government officials of each province,” he added.

Sinarimbo also emphasized that the Bangsamoro Government has provided the basic needs of the LSIs that are essential upon arriving in their respective provinces. “Pinadalhan po namin kayo ng iba pang gamit para pagdating niyo sa inyong mga probinsiya ay kaya niyong mamuhay ng ilang weeks habang nag-aadjust, at tuluyang mapadali ang pag -integrade niyo sa inyong mga komunidad,” Sinarimbo said. Each LSI received P5,000.00 cash assistance, 25 kilograms of rice, groceries, medicines, and hygiene kits from the BARMM’s Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) and Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READI). One of the LSIs was emotional as he recalled his experience throughout his stay in the isolation facilities. “Nagpapasalamat kami sa BARMM, kasi hindi nila kami pinabayaan sa isolation center. Araw-araw kaming binigyan ng makakain, ng tulugan, at iba pa,” he said.[We are thankful to BARMM for taking care of our needs while staying in the isolation facilities. They provided us with daily meals, sleeping mats, and others.] “Sa wakas makakauwi na din kami sa mga bahay namin, matagal naming hinintay ang araw na to. Maraming salamat po sa lahat ng tumulong sa amin,” he added.[We can finally go home, we have been waiting for this day. Thank you so much to everyone who helped us.] The successful transfer of the LSIs was also made possible thru the support of the BARMM’s Ministry of Health (MOH) and Ministry of Public Works (MPW), United NationInternational Organization for Migration (UN-IOM), Local Government Units of Sultan Kudarat and Parang, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and other partner agencies. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

News

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

SULU SULTAN | from page A2

Sultan of Sulu to revive Sabah Claim Datu that was waged by his uncle Rajah Muda Agbimuddin Kiram will not be repeated. “We call upon the international community especially the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to assist us in achieving a common goal beneficial to all,” Sultan Kiram said. Lahad Datu standoff Sultan Kiram recalled the Lahad Datu standoff that happened in 2013 which was actually a military conflict involving the Royal Armed Forces of the Sultanate of Sulu against the Malaysian soldiers. The Lahad Datu standoff started on February 11, 2013 and fully ended on the 24th of March 2013. The conflict began when more than 200 fully armed members of the Royal Armed Forces of Sulu Sultanate under the leadership of Rajah Muda Agbimuddin Kiram arrived in Lahad Datu District in Sabah from their headquarters in Simunul Island, TawiTawi. According to Sultan Kiram the aftermath of Lahad Datu standoff caused untold sufferings of the followers of the Sultanate of Sulu in Sabah. “Our close relatives and supporters who were not even party to the conflict were arrested,” Sultan Kiram disclosed. Datu Amir Bahar Kiram Death Sentence Sultan Kiram also divulged that his cousin, Datu Amir Bahar H. Kiram and 8 of his companions have been arrested and put in jail at Kota Kinabalu and they were sentenced to death by the Malaysian Federal Court. Datu Amir Bahar is the son of the late Sultan Esmael D. Kiram and the latter was

the younger brother of the late Sultan Jamalul D. Kiram III. He said Datu Amir Bahar and his companions were earlier sentenced to life imprisonment but the prosecution appealed for the highest penalty of death. “I am asking the Philippine government to act swiftly with every means necessary, to secure a stay of execution on the sentences and negotiate for commutation to life imprisonment,” he appealed. Sultan Kiram said Datu Amir Bahar actually did not participate in the armed conflict during the Sabah incursion in 2013, otherwise known as the Lahad Datu Standoff of 2013. “I ask everyone, to pray for a positive resolution of this matter and may Allah accept our prayers,” he said. Sultan Muedzul-Lail T. Kiram as the 35th Sultan is also now asserting his official stand on three matters pertaining to the Sabah issue. Summary of Sabah Claim To summarize, Sultan Muedzul-Lail T. Kiram as the 35th Sultan said the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) was never lawfully ceded to the Republic of the Philippines, and therefore remains a sovereign and independent state. He also said the stipulation in the Deed of 1878 that the lessees of North Borneo (Sabah) shall administer the territory for “as long as they choose or desire to use them” places it in the category of a “perpetual lease”, effective for 100 years under international law. The Contract of Lease has therefore expired and possession over North Borneo should now be exercised by the Sultanate of Sulu, its rightful owner.

And finally he emphasized further that the heirs of Jamalul Kiram II do not have private ownership of Sabah. The territory continues to be owned by the Sultanate of Sulu, and not any private person. There is no truth also to the allegations of Malaysia that the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) has been abolished when the Philippines became a republic following the declaration of Philippine Independence on June 12, 1898. “To make the record straight and clear, there was no single Sultan who had abdicated the throne,” Sultan Muedzul-Lail pointed out. Most of all, the Sabah Claim has not been abandoned but the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) is still pursuing until today the Sultanate claim over Sabah. “We are very hopeful with this administration that it would once again tackle the issue of Sabah,” he optimistically said. Sadly, like its predecessors this government has taken the path of neglect that has emboldened Malaysia to blatantly oppress our people and plunder the resources of our land. “This continued policy of the Philippines of nonintervention had pushed a group of our people to take matters into their own hands just like what happened in February 11, 2013 that resulted in the Lahad Datu Standoff that caused several casualties from the Sultanate of Sulu combatants as well as from the side of the Malaysian soldiers as mentioned earlier,” Sultan Kiram further said. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

MP Ramos calls for continuous support to BARMM as BOL 2nd anniversary comes By JULIUS DISAMBURUN.

Bangsamoro MP Diamila Disimban-Ramos (Supplied)

OTABATO CITY — Member of Parliament Diamila Disimban-Ramos of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BTA-BARMM) called on Bangsamoro constituents to continue to support the current BARMM leadership. MP Ramos, who was also a peace, women, and cooperative sector advocate, remembered how the Bangsamoro people rejoiced for the passage of Republic Act No. 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) which provided for the establishment of the autonomous political entity known as the BARMM, replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Signed into law on July 26, 2018 by President Rodrigo Duterte, the new Bangsamoro region has the high hopes of greater fiscal and political autonomy. “That emotional moment was evident in the tears of the leaders who worked very hard to enact the law and of those in the Bangsamoro communities who never faltered to fight for the Bangsamoro Right to SelfDetermination,” MP Ramos said. It was a long journey during the 16th Congress when a proposed establishment of a Bangsamoro Autonomous Region was deliberated but failed to pass into law. It was taken up once again during the 17th Congress and was ratified by the

upper and lower house on July 23 and 24, 2018, respectively, before the bill was finally signed into law. BOL provisions became effective on August 10 of the same year. “We look back on that momentous event today with both pride and humility. We are proud of the significant milestone we have achieved and of the patience, perseverance, and endurance that came with such achievement,” Ramos said. She emphasized that the BOL would not have been achieved without Allah’s will and guidance. “We are humbled by the wisdom, courage, and strength Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala gave us. Indeed, we could not have achieved such milestone without Allah’s Divine Intervention. May we keep the faith and continue to uphold the cause of the Bangsamoro,” pointed out in a zoom interview with her by Turkey-based Moro International Students Association or MISA. Meanwhile, last July 23, 2020, three priority codes of BARMM have entered the second stage of legislation in the BTA during the 41st plenary session of its Second Regular Session. As stated in Article 16, Section 4 of the BOL, BTA is mandated to enact all of the priority codes such as the Bangsamoro Local Governance Code, Bangsamoro Administrative Code, and Bangsamoro Civil Service Code. JULIUS DISAMBURUN.

Opinion

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

Page 1 of PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY previous issue.

PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY INTERIM BOARD OF EDITORS: DEAN MASIDING NOOR YAHYA Interim Chairman and Publisher AMBASSADOR MACABANGKIT LANTO COMMISSIONER NASSER A. MAROHOMSALIC JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL, J.D. BENJ BANGAHAN, M.D. ABDUL HANNAN TAGO, PHD. JOHNNY R. LEE, PHD ALI G. MACABALANG INTERIM STAFF: MASIDING NOOR YAHYA Acting Editor-In-Chief JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL Acting Managing Editor & Metro Manila News Bureau Chief ALI G. MACABALANG Acting News Editor & Chief of Correspondents KIM BAGUNDANG Acting Bangsamoro Region Bureau Chief ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL Acting Lanao Provinces Bureau Chief MARK EDRIEL “TWISTER” ORTIL Cartoonist FATIMA ORTIL-JANNARAL Acting Advertising Sales Director SAID AHMAD BASHER Religious Affairs Adviser FILEMON G. ROMERO In Charge of Environment and Conservation JOHNNY R. LEE In Charge of Tourism & Photography COLUMNISTS: HOMOBONO A. ADAZA BENJ BANGAHAN JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL MACABANGKIT B. LANTO ALI G. MACABALANG MEHOL K. SADAIN ABDUL HANNAN M. TAGO DISCLAIMER: Opinion of the writers expressed herein is not necessarily the opinion of Philippine Muslim Today. TEMPORARY BUSINESS OFFICES: Lot1, Blk1, Vizcarra Compound, Molino 3, Bacoor City 4102 Cavite Province Phone: 09152184388| 09778430218 Email: muslimtoday2020@gmail.com Http://www.philmuslimtoday.wordpress.com

World Muslims unity farfetched but not impossible T HE most disunited community on earth is the Muslim Ummah said to be around 1.6 billion people. They are also if we synch what has been happening to them in the past decades the most oppressed, persecuted and terrorized in modern world. The persecution of Muslims is happening everywhere. We see it in the Middle East, in Africa, in Southeast Asia and others where Muslims are being killed, their lands bombed, women and children abused, properties forcibly taken. Amid all these is the tension between the United States and such countries as China, Russia and Iran. Speaking of Iran, the killing of its top-rank military general has been feared to trigger another global war. Some observers fear that a war between Iran and the USA will escalate to another world war. But any serious student of history will say, “There will be no another world war due to this conflict.” That will not happen. Iran is not that capable to attack America. They have no military bases near America and therefore their missiles cannot reach American soil. However, the prevailing repressions against the Muslims will possibly unite the Muslim world. And if superpowers keep on repressing the muslims, then there will be another world war. And if that happens, the

Editorial

reunited Muslims will regain its glorious past. In case USA attacks Iran which is possible with all Uncle Sam’s friends around Iran whose ports and military bases he can use for take off and landing for fueling or refueling, plus his chain of fleets, Iran will suffer greater damage while Washington remains unscathed because Tehran cannot do to Washington what the latter can do to the former. Iran has no fleet, no military bases nearby America where they can launch their missiles to hit Washington. Iran may be able to defend American aerial attacks but cannot launch an attack that will hit American soil. Iran only hope is for the Muslim countries to help in the fight against America. If that happens, America cannot use Muslim lands to destroy another Muslim land. And their weaponry will be confined in their territory and cannot reach Iran. America and its masters the Zionist Israelis is in fact the common enemy of Islam, the Muslims nations and all the peace loving peoples of the world. But in the present world, Muslims unity appears as farfetched but not impossible. PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY

From the Mailbox: What they say about Philippine Muslim Today “Alhamdulillah. It’s Good we have now Philippine Muslim Today. Ma Sha Allah.” ALIREZA KUNTING | Cainta, Rizal Province “Congratulations for a very readable publication. Can I share it with other chatrooms?” SUK PENDALIDAY | Manager, Social Security System (SSS), Cotabato City “I just opened it and I have low internet access the last time. Impressive! Grabe noh, parang mayroon real copy din tayo.” GLENDALE BURIAS-AGUILOS | Education Supervisor Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE ) Basilan Province

Opinion | News

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

Ijtihad

The Tabó and Tazkiyah

he first time I entered the KCC Mall toilet in Zamboanga City, I was pleasantly surprised to find a dipper (a tabó in local parlance) which Muslims can use to wash after they answer the call of nature. This shows that the mall management is sensitive to the hygienic and religious needs of their Muslim clientele. Hopefully, other malls and establishments in Mindanao, and later in the entire Philippines, can and will follow suit, not necessarilyby providing tabó, but by having clean water available near the urinals or inside the cubicles. Washing is part of the institution of tazkiyah or purification in Islam and refers to the process of cleansing the self so that it attains the level of purity worthy of acceptance by God. Tazkiyah has the same root

with zakah which is similar to a tax imposed on a Muslim’s retained earnings for the year and serves to purify money and possessions belonging to such Muslim. The rites of purification are essential to Muslims, physically, economically as well as spiritually. A Muslim is required to perform ablution or washing of designated parts of the body before he can perform the salah or prescribed prayer. When he answers the call of nature, he is also required to wash his affected organs, and not just his hands. When he engages in sexual intimacy, he is required to take a bath before he can pray. These washing and bathing requirements similarly apply to Muslim women, who in addition, must take a ritual bath after they are through menstruating before they can undertake religious activities.

Batanes to Tawi-Tawi WITH JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

ur country the Philippines which is the Pearl of the Orient is now the “Bully of the Orient” as in the case of illegal annexation of Sabah to the Federation of Malaysia; and the West Philippine Sea illegally occupied by the People’s Republic of China. Sabah which is owned by the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) was

illegally annexed when the Federation of Malaysia was organized in 1963 unilaterally without the consent of the former being the lawful owner. A Sultan of one of the Royal Houses of Sulu said, and I quote, “In view of the history of the Sultanate and the circumstances surrounding the lease of Sabah, we desire the recognition of the independent

The other aspect of tazkiyah is purification of one’s earnings which is manifested in the Islamic pillar of zakah which literally means “that which purifies”. Although some authors call it a “poor-rate” which is extracted from those who have extrafinancial means, and aims to financially assist certain disadvantaged sectors of the Muslim community (the indigent, orphans, needy kins, travelers, new converts, poor scholars, etc.), it actually functions as a purifying tool for worldly goods by channeling part of accumulated wealth into community charity. Finally, tazkiyah’s lessexplained esoteric spiritual aspect is the purification of the soul (nafs) to bring man closer to God, as verses 7 to 10 of Suratu shShams specify: “By the Soul and the One who fashioned

WITH MEHOL K. SADAIN it (Wa nafsiňwwa maa sawwaahaa), and inspired it as to what makes it iniquitous or reverent. Indeed, he prospers who purifies it (Qad aflaha maň zakkaahaa). And indeed, he fails who corrupts it (Wa qad khaabamaň dassa ahaa).” The literal meaning of zakkabeing “to grow” signifies growth towards purity; while the literal meaning of dassa being “to bury” signifies decay into corruption. The process of growth to avoid decay and the state of purity to counter corruption are what constitute Taskiyatun-Nafs or Purification of the Soul, the way of which is provided in the Qur’ān. It is, therefore, not a wonder that the Qur’an is arranged in such a manner that

after the Opening Chapter (AlFatihah) where the reader asks for Allah’s Guidance (“Ihdina sSiraata l-Mustaqiim” or “Show us the Straight Way”), he is immediately told in verse 2 of the second chapter, “Zaalika lKitaabulaa rayba fiih, Hudal li lMuttaqiin” or “This is the Book, a Guidance without doubt, for the reverent.” [Surat ulBaqarah, 2:2] The simple provision of a tabó in a comfort room in a mall is not that simple after all. It opens the way in helping one’s Soul unite with the Creator; all in the name of tazkiyah — one word that signifies a range of ascent from the physical to the spiritual, from cleanliness to holiness, from the repentant man to the Merciful Allah. MEHOL K. SADAIN

Malaysia annexed Sabah in 1963 without the consent of the Sulu Sultanate statehood and sovereignty of the Islamic Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo. “In behalf of the adherents or Raayats of the Sultanate, I humbly implore the assistance of all sovereign countries of the world, most especially those belonging to the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) (sic) Organization of Islamic Cooperation to support our quest for the restoration of our beloved homeland.” Likewise to summarize the important highlights of the Sabah Issue, I would like to present herein the three im-

portant points as a summary on this topic. 1) The Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah) was never lawfully ceded to the Republic of the Philippines, and therefore remains a sovereign and independent state. 2) The stipulation in the Deed of 1878 that the lessees of North Borneo (Sabah) shall administer the territory for “as long as they choose or desire to use them” places it in the category of a “perpetual lease”, effective for 100 years under international law.

The Contract of Lease has therefore expired and possession over North Borneo should now be exercised by the Sultanate of Sulu, its rightful owner. 3) The heirs of Sultan Jamalul Kiram II do not have private ownership of Sabah. The territory continues to be owned by the Sultanate of Sulu, and not any private person. Columnist Note: For the 9th Digital Edition of Philippine Muslim Today, I will discuss the topic, “West Philippine Sea occupied by China.” JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

NCMF thanks Gov. Bombit for helping Muslims in Caraga region By ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL YAHYA

ARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur -- The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Caraga Regional Office 13, expressed its thanks and appreciations to Lanao del Sur Provincial Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong, Jr. for helping the Muslim constituents in the Caraga region who are affected by the Coronavirus 2019 disease (Covid-19). NCMF Caraga Regional Director Monaim Guro presented two plaques to Governor Adiong, one for him and the other for the provincial government unit of Lanao del Sur. Mrs. Sarah B. Guro read the inscription in the awards. The plaque given to the governor is for his sincere and invaluable support to the Muslim constituents in Caraga region. "Your generosity has been an instrument in making a difference especially this pandemic Covid-19,” it

said. The other plaque is awarded to the provincial government unit of Lanao del Sur in grateful recognition and sincere appreciation of its valuable support to the Muslim constituents in the Caraga region. It can be recalled that the provincial government has been extending foods and relief assistance to Muslim constituents outside Lanao del Sur in his desire to help amidst the pandemic along the call of President Duterte to help every Filipino in order not to get hungry during this crisis. The awarding ceremony was held on Monday, August 2, 2020, in a simple ceremony at the provincial governor's office in the new capitol complex in the Islamic City of Marawi.

Opinion | News

BY ABDUL HANNAN MAGARANG TAGO

uring the interactions and ‘Question-andAnswer’ portion (Q&A) of the OMPIA Youth Alliance Assembly recently, I was tasked to talk on Youth Role in Nation Building where I highlighted the role of Arabicspeaking Ulama in achieving the so-called Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). I named two top founders who were all graduates of Cairo-based Al Azhar University, Sheikh Salamat Hashim and Abdul Aziz Mimbantas, as live testimony that Ulama are qualified to run a major organization like MILF without insisting the civil service eligibility. My argument is that the existing CSE will only accommodate those with Western education background in BARMM and would prevent

thousands of graduates from not only local madaris but also those who obtained various degrees from Arab countries. The assembly was mainly attended by young graduates Ulama from both local and foreign universities and professionals to discuss various pressing issues including antiterrorism law and election code. Islamic Banking and Islam, democracy and moral governance were also presented BARMM Minister Hamid Aminoddin D. Barra was among the top speakers who dealt with Islam, democracy and moral governance. While he was responsible for settlement mainly housing, he also discussed jobs opportunity providing that applicants should undergo strict screening procedures citing verses from the Holy Quran empha-

BARMM should hire Arabic-speaking youth sizing that Islam is stricter than other relevant systems. Alhamdulillah for the very brotherly exchange of productive ideas. With regards to civil service eligibility that Bangsamoro should undergo as part of the agreement between national government and BARMM. According to a reliable source, before the creation of ARMM there was already a system, Cultural Community Officer (CCO) to cater to the needs of Bangsamoro in job opportunities as exceptional case designed to accommodate Muslim community especially Arabic-speaking graduates in the government agencies including BARMM without imposing CSE. We insisted that under existing CSE or the proposed stricter approach, the century struggle in the empowerment process will not be solved. It will leave thousands of our

2 Filipino domestic helpers among those killed in Beirut blasts

t least 2 Filipinos were among some 100 people killed when twin explosions devastated Beirut’s port and shook distant buildings across the Lebanese capital, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday. The 2 Filipino household service workers died inside their employers’ homes when the explosions occurred. At least 8 other Filipinos were injured and 12 remained missing, the DFA said, citing information from the Philippine Embassy in Beirut. Of those missing, 11 are seafarers and one is an injured household service worker, DFA Undersecretary Sarah Arriola said. Two huge explosions rocked the Lebanese capital Beirut, wounding dozens of people, shaking buildings and sending huge plumes of smoke billowing into the sky. Lebanese media carried images of people trapped under rubble, some bloodied, after the massive explosions, the cause of which was not immediately known. The shockwave from the massive blast was also felt at the Philippine Embassy in Beirut, 20 minutes by car from the blast site. All Embassy staff are safe and ac-

Lebanese firefighters work at the scene of an explosion in the Lebanese capital Beirut on Aug. 4, 2020. (Agency Photo) counted for, she added. “We were told that they also felt the shockwave so talagang yumanig talaga ang Embassy. So ganoon kalakas talaga ang explosion. So kahit talagang wala ka sa kalsada at that time, tatamaan ka eh. Kasi marami doon nabasag,” Arriola said. (We were told that they also felt the shockwave, the embassy shook, that’s how powerful the explosion was. Even if you were not on the street, you would have been hit. It also shattered many things.) A repatriation flight is being mounted to bring home Filipinos with exit visas and the remains of migrant workers by weekend at the earli-

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

est or next week at the latest, she added. The agency is ready to provide aid and has coordinated with local authorities to find the missing Filipinos while the victims’ families will be given assistance, Arriola said. Lebanon is home to some 31,916 Filipinos, of whom more than 10,000 are undocumented migrants. Lebanon’s Prime Minister Hassan Diab said that 2,750 tons of agricultural fertilizer ammonium nitrate that had been stored for years in a portside warehouse had blown up, sparking “a disaster in every sense of the word.” DFA Diplomatic Dispatch

young people jobless. BARMM is to answer our long clamors to have our own resources and make our people important part in building our homeland to make them productive citizens regardless of their educational background. The national government design is intended for Filipinos and BARMM is an entity

to cater to the Bangsamoro needs including job opportunities. (Abdul Hannan Magarang Tago is at present Amanah Islamic Bank Director, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Bangsamoro Federal Business Council (BFBCI) and Mndanao State University (MSU) System President Consultant. He writes regularly with the Philippine Muslim Today.)

Bangsamoro Parliament reaches out to Bangsamoro LSIs in Metro Manila

OTABATO CITY: Members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament asked the public to continue praying for the safety of the locally stranded individuals (LSIs) amid pandemic. In a statement, MP Diamila Disimban-Ramos said that aside from the government assistance, prayers is one of the best weapons to help ease the burden of Filipinos amid the of COVID-19 pandemic. “Sa gitna ng pandemya, lahat tayo ay may magagawang tulong para sa ating kapwa na apektado, isa na dyan ang ipagdasal sila na maging ligtas sa anumang kapahamakan, (In this pandemic, all of us can do something for those affected and one is to pray for them to be safe from harm), In Shaa Allah,” MP Ramos said. This was after the BTA Parliament extended aid and reached out to more than 500 LSIs from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and outside the region who were temporarily housed at the Philippine Army Gymnasium and inside the “Libingan ng mga Bayani” compound in Taguig City, last July 8. MP Ramos said they raised funds along with other Parliament members of the region. “The cash assistance is our simple way of helping our LSIs while awaiting their flights back to their hometowns,” MP Ramos said. MPs Ramos, Nabil Tan, Abraham “Jess” Burahan, and lawyer Maisara Dandamun-Latiph led the relief assistance with the support of fellow MPs Abdulmuhmin Mujahid, Khadafeh Mangudadatu, Aida Silongan, Adzfar Usman, Omar Yasser Sema, Paisalin Tago, Susana Anayatin, Eddie Alih, Ubaida Pacasem, Jose Lorena, Romy Saliga, ZiaurRahman Adiong, Nabila Margarita Pangandaman, Mussolini Lidasan, Muslimin Jakilan, Marjanie Macasalong, Ali Sangki, Sahie Udjah, and Deputy Speaker Hatimil Hassan. “We know how you feel, and this is our effort to at least help you in these trying times,” MP Tan and MP Burahan noted in an interview. MP Dandamun-Latiph also asked the LSIs to take care of their health. “Please take good care of yourselves. You should take care of your health since it is our only capital amid this pandemic crisis,” MP Latiph said. “Dalangin po natin ay makauwi sila ng matiwasay, malusog, at masaya (We pray that they are able to return home safe, healthy, and happy),” she added. BARMM Manila Liaison Office distributed face masks and ear saver straps to the LSIs and the Philippine Army who assisted the BTA members during the activity. In his brief message, Civil Military Operations Regiment Deputy Commander Col. Marce T. Gayat, said the Philippine Army is “extremely thankful to the BARMM government since it is always ready to extend a helping hand to their needy constituents”. This initiative is in line with BARMM Chief Minister Ahod "Al Haj Murad" Ebrahim’s support to the national government’s directive of helping and assisting the LSIs until they go back to their respective provinces. JULIUS DISAMBURUN.

Opinion | News

My twocents Rx WITH BENJ S. BANGAHAN, M.D., FPCP, FPCCP

dema, or also called dropsy, is a condition brought about by an abnormal collection of fluid in the interstitial space of the body, and can be localized when confined only to a certain area of the body, or may be generalized, when manifested in almost all parts. Normally, no such abnormal collection occurs because of the naturally provided equilibrium of the interacting forces of hydrostatic pressure, colloid oncotic pressure, the permeability of the capillaries -- that smallest

portion of the blood vessels where exchange of movements take place -- as well as the competence of lymphatic drainage. However, when a disruption in the equilibrium occurs, or the lymphatic drainage is blocked, a resulting abnormal fluid accumulation develops. It is a routine procedure among doctors confronted with the problem to extract a good history from the patient as well as do a thorough physical examination to achieve some objectives,

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

The problem of edema like knowing which particular organ is involved and determining whether the case is localized or generalized; in short, an exact diagnosis. Generalized edema is associated with weight gain brought about by the comparatively bigger amount of accumulated fluid. Its basic cause can be a variety diseases affecting some organs, usually in a state of defective function, or undergoing failure. For example, this edema can be an aftermath of a heart in a state of Congestive Heart Failure, in which there is an increased capillary hydrostatic pressure that leads to the abnormal accumulation of fluid. Generalized edema is also a consequence of a kid-

Caraga region COVID-19 cases now totals to 336

UTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte -- The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga announces receipt of 155 RTPCR (Reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction) results from Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), Northern Mindanao TB Reference Center (NMTBR) and Davao One World Diagnostic Center subnational laboratories where 143 tested negative and 12 turned positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19) virus. The RT-PCR negative results are from the following cases: a) Seven suspect cases from Butuan Medical Center, Butuan Doctors Hospital, MJ Santos Hospital and Surigao del Sur Quarantine Facility, b) Twelve probable cases from Caraga Regional Hospital, Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital and Agusan del Sur Quarantine Facility, and c) 124 High risk individuals who had positive Rapid Antibody-based Tests. Of the 12 positive cases, 58% (7) are Locally Stranded Individuals, 8% (1) is a Returning Overseas Filipino, 17% (2) are cases classified under local transmission, 8% (1) is a close contact of a previous COVID-19 positive case, and another 8% (1) is a resident of Bayugan City who is currently employed in Butuan City. Per sex distribution, 75% (9) are females while 25% (3) are males. The majority of the cases or 58% (7) belong to

ages 20-40 years old. The new confirmed cases are distributed in the following areas: Butuan City (3), Bayugan City (1), Bislig City (1), Nasipit, Agusan del Norte (1), municipalities in Agusan del Sur-Esperanza (2), Prosperidad (2), Tago, Surigao del Sur (2). Most 92% (11) of the cases are asymptomatic while only one case has exhibited mild signs and symptoms. Moreover, those who are symptomatic are isolated at identified isolation facilities region-wide for strict monitoring and management whereas the lone case with mild symptom is admitted to a hospital facility. To date, Caraga region COVID-19 confirmed positive cases now totals to 336 with 193 (57%) recoveries that have been discharged and released leaving a total of 142 (42%) active cases. “We will continuously monitor the status of our cas-

es in the different areas of the region now that we are placed on Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) while critical barangays in Butuan City are under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). Our goal is to have reduced local transmission cases in a twoweek period in these critical areas and contain COVID-19 cases among LSIs and ROFs by strictly following isolation and quarantine procedures," DOH Caraga Regional Director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. said. "We can only achieve this if we work together. We call on everyone to firmly observe and follow our health protocols. Only go out for work or if necessary. Wear facemasks at all times. Practice physical distancing. Lastly, report to your local health authorities when symptoms like fever, cough, colds, sore throat, and diarrhea of more than two days occur,” Dr. Llacuna, Jr. added. DOH Caraga/PIA Caraga

ney failure in which, because of the poor function of the kidney, there is an accumulation of sodium, a part of the salt that is taken with food, and as a result of that, an overload of water occurs with subsequent edema formation. Generalized edema may also occur as an aftermath of a treatment process. A patient given an inappropriate intravenous fluid (IVF) and/or more than necessary may result in volume overload. It can also possibly become a side effect treatment using steroid or hormone. Edema may involve the entire body which doctors call anasarca, and may subsequently accumulate within the cavity of the peritoneum, the covering of the abdomen to form a condi-

tion called ascites, or in the space of the plurae, the covering of the lungs, to form hydrothorax. Localized edema on the other hand, is observed in conditions in which the return flow of the blood through the venous blood vessel undergoes a defect, like in venous insufficiency, incompetent venous valves, and an obstruction brought about by a new growth, infection, trauma and some other pathological conditions. All the conditions that are potential causes of the edematous formation are easy to diagnose by physicians with the help of ancillary examinations, and when timely and adequate management is instituted, the morbidity is very much minimized. Māassalāma.

Gov. Hataman lauds Isabela police station

MinDA Chairman Manny Piñol in a huddle with officials of Taraka, Lanao del Sur led by Mayor Nashida G. Sumagayan. (AGM)

Basilan Provincial Governor Jim Salliman Hataman. Supplied)

SABELA CITY – The Provincial Government of Basilan congratulated the city police station of Isabela for garnering for having been chosen as Best Police Station nationwide. Governor Jim Salliman Hataman expressed his congratulations through the official Facebook account of the provincial government. The search was done to give due recognition to police stations throughout the country as the Philippine Natioal Police (PNP) marked its 119th Police Service Anniversary with the theme: "Towards a Pandemic- Resilient PNP: Adopting Protective Proto-

cols in the New Normal." The Isabela City Police Station is headed by PLTCOL Homer Tragico Dumalag, its Chief of Police. The Philippine National Police celebrates the 119th Police Service Anniversary on Thursday, August 6, with a nationwide live simulcast of the anniversary rites at the PNP National Headquarters and in all 17 Police Regional Offices across the country. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will grace the occasion via live feed to all viewers over the internet and television where he will deliver his message. MASIDING NOOR YAHYA

News

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

Mayor Sara sets new health Biz leader bullish on economic recovery guidelines in Davao City D

AVAO CITY--- Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte has set new health guidelines to keep the government, private offices,

and businesses open during the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) in the city.

Downtown street in Davao City, Philippine south prime city.

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. (CIO-DavaoCity)

n her latest Executive Order No. 47 issued on August 4, 2020, Mayor Inday Sara Duterte said there is a need to keep the city open and for government, private offices, and business establishments operating. “It is important to find a balance so people can continue to live, work and do business in the midst of a COVID19 pandemic,” she said in her EO. In her EO, the four essential health practices to prevent contracting the Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) must be followed at all times: 1) stay home, 2) wear a face mask, 3) stay at least one meter away from other people, and 4) frequent handwashing with soap and water. Face shields are optional to the general public but are mandatory for a) offices and establishments where there is a high volume of people moving inside the premises and b) where the job of the worker puts him in close contact with other individuals as per Section 2(b) of the EO. Those in the vulnerable sector or persons below 21 years old, senior citizens, those with immunodeficiency, comorbidity, or other health risks and pregnant women are still required to stay at home all the times except for those who are working, accessing essential goods and services when they need to report in educational institu-

tion except for the purpose of face-to-face classes and indoor and outdoor non-contact sports. They are also prohibited from entering malls and shopping centers except for essential goods and services or work inside the establishments. As announced earlier, Mayor Sara also eased movement restrictions by lifting the use of the Food and Medicine (FM) pass and the curfew. The liquor ban stays until it is lifted. Under Section 4 of the EO, all religious gatherings in the city must be limited to 50 percent seating capacity of the venue. The venue management and event organizer must keep complete contact details of all employees and guests per event. They are also encouraged to use applications as advised by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Memorandum Circulars (MCs). Whenever required by the City Health Office (CHO), the management and event organizer must make the electronic database of a certain event available to contact tracers. For offices and establishments as per Sec. 5 of the EO, the Joint Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) interim guidelines on workplace prevention and control of COVID-19 dated April 30, 2020, shall be

their guide. Employers are prohibited from forcing employees who are unwell to report to work and they must be referred to the company designated medical specialist for checkup and validation of their claims of illness. Rapid testing kits should not be used as a tool to clear an employee back to work. If the doctor’s opinion is to require testing, the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test will be the standard testing tool They should also develop additional protocols to protect their employees and clients. For restaurants and all other similar food establishments, they should be guided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 20-39 July 17, 2020, Increasing the Operating Capacity for Dinein Food Establishments, Amending for the Purpose DTI MC No. 20-37, Series 2020. Under Section 7 of the EO, cockpits, beerhouses, and other establishments whose primary business is serving liquor, kids’ amusement and play areas are still not allowed to operate per DTI MC 20-44. As to educational institutions, face-to-face learning is still prohibited. All private and public educational institutions from kindergarten to postgraduate studies are ordered to prepare to implement a

AVAO CITY - The president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industries Inc. (DCCCII) is confident that the country’s economy will recover from the pandemic and the resulting economic downturn. John Carlo B. Tria, DCCCII president said based on what he saw from President Rodrigo Duterte's recent Statement of the Nation Address (SONA) held on July 27, a large portion of the SONA were on economic measures to deal with the impact to the economy, jobs, livelihood. He said for these to be realized, the Congress must pass the legislative proposals for stimulus and tax reforms as this will help many sectors recover. Tria said that the administration’s economic team has handled the situation well amidst the pandemic. “I think the efforts of the government and the economic team built a strong position for the response. Confidence in our economy can be seen in the successive rise in our credit ratings, in spite of the covid pandemic. Our debt to GDP and debt to GNP ratios are better than many countries. From a monetary perspective, the central bank has deployed tools such as the lowering of reserve requirements and interest rates to drive up liquidity and enable businesses to borrow and the economy is stimulated,” the DCCCII prexy said. Tria hopes that banks increase their lending to stimulate the recovery of businesses. He hopes that in the remaining years of the Duterte presidency, the government will sustain the economic reforms it started in the early years of the administration. “Actually a big part of the reforms were legislated and therefore institutionalized in the early years of his presidency. Ensuring their implementation by the respective agencies, especially those strengthening the countryside like Build Build Build, agriculture programs and better internet will strengthen local economies,” Tria said. (PIA/RG Alama) blended learning system until December 31, 2020, and for a possible extension until April 30, 2021. “Any three or all of the following can be implemented simultaneously to deliver education: synchronous and asynchronous platform, offline (use of electronic mail or e-mail, messaging tools, USB flash drive, etc.), modular printed materials, TV, radio broadcast, and other modes of instruction.” However, beginning September 1, 2020, higher education institutions including post-graduate courses can conduct face-to-face examinations provided that minimum public health standards are followed. For public and private

transportation, all vehicles must implement physical distancing inside their units and must keep their windows halfway open to allow air to circulate inside their units. Private hospitals shall be on deck to open their facilities to suspected and confirmed positive COVID-19 patients. They will be properly informed by the City Government and DOH when they shall be operationalized as a COVID-19 hospital, and thus prepare for the possibility to be designated as one. The guidelines in the latest EO are harmonized with the guidelines of the National Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) Omnibus Guidelines issued on July 16, 2020. CIO-Davao City

Lifestyle

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

Gov. Angging wants to preserve Maranao weaving tradition

The Best of Halal Home-Cooked Muslim Filipino Dishes

By Maria Fhebie Ortil

eginning with the 8th Digital Edition of Philippine Muslim Today, this Section will feature the best of Halal home-cooked Muslim Filipino dishes. This is not a commercial nor an endorsement but hopefully we can preserve our culture featuring native Halal foods to the next generation. Hence, in the succeeding issues we will be featuring also the best delicacies from other tribal groups like

Maranao foods from Lanao del Sur; Maguindanaoan from Maguindanao; Sama from Tawi-Tawi; Yakan from Basilan; and for our first salvo the Tausug delicacies from Sulu. Hence for the start we will feature the popular Satti of Sulu as we virtually “Copy and Paste” from the Tausug Cookbook, “The Best of Home-Cooked Halal Tausug Filipino Dishes,” written by Abdulaziz H. Hamsain of Jolo, Sulu.

SATTI

Serves 4-5

Lanao del Nrte Governor Imelda ‘Angging’ Quibranza-Dimaporo admires the uniqueness and originality of Maranao weave device. (Photo by PIO-LDN)

UBOD, Lanao del Norte — Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda ‘Angging’ Quibranza-Dimaporo is earnestly wanting to preserve and sustain the unique cultural heritage of the Maranao in With this, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the active contribution of Paglingkawas Women Federation (PAWFED), a nonprofit organization, has designated a place inside the Pasalubong Center to promote the Maranao Weaving Tradition in the land of beauty and bounty, and showcases the traditional handloom weaving device used to create blankets and will also serve as a hub for the younger generations to learn this intricate and beautiful handcrafting technique, as well as appreciate the history and continue the rich and colorful Maranao tradition in the coming years. On August 4, 2020, Governor Angging visited the Pasalubong Center and greeted by PAWFED Chairperson Blenda M. Desierto together with the members of ISLAHIYYAH Association from the Municipality of Poona Piagapo, to

the Province of Lanao del Norte and provided a showcase area in the provincial Pasalubong Center to display the traditional handloom weaving device used to create blankets.

INGREDIENTS: -1/2 kg chicken -1/2 kg of beef -1/2 cup chilies -2 tomatoes -2 inches ginger Chopped -1 whole onion chopped -2 inches turmeric chopped (ground) -2 cups of brown sugar -1/2 cup of flour personally see the traditional weaving device and witnessed the demonstration of one of the members weaving a blanket made from Inaul fabric. This endeavor primarily aims to develop cloth weaving production and help local weavers of Poona Piagapo to increase their livelihood skills capabilities in traditional weaving and create viable and sustainable business opportunities within their community. The Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte and

the Department of Labor and Employment together with Paglingkawas Women Federation will do its best to provide necessary assistance in order to increase the production of local weavers by providing an advance or highly technical cloth weaving machine and other equipment, including technical assistance through product design development and enhancement training on cloth weaving, as well as to conduct basic entrepreneurial skills for local weavers, and provide start-up capital and training facilities for the local weavers. Governor Angging was happy and proud that the traditional weaving was preserved and continued in the Municipality of Poona Piagapo and being handed down for the next generation to carry on such an amazing and fascinating Maranao cultural heritage. PIO-LDN

-1 cup cornstarch -1 tablespoon shrimp paste -1 tablespoon peanut butter -1/2 cup of coconut milk -1 tablespoon honey -1 tsp Achuete (annatto) -Salt -1 tablespoon curry powder -1L water -1 teaspoon Oregano

PROCEDURE: • Soak 1/2 kilo chicken skewed with salt and sugat achuete and 1/2 kilo skewed beef. MIXTURE 1 • Boil 1-liter water with chicken cubes, curry poweder then add coconut milk. MIXTURE 2 • Flour, cornstarch, salt, brown sugar, drained achuete. • Add water then mix well. MIXTURE 3 • In a bowl, mix the 2 inches turmeric chopped (grind), Oregano, 2 inches ginger, 1 whole onion chopped then add water. MIXTURE 4 • Saute the tomatoes in oil then add the fish paste and peanut butter then mix well. • Then add mixture 3. • Add two tablespoon of honey. 1. 2. 3. 4.

Add mixture 4 and mixture 2 into mixture 1 then mix well. Keep mixing until the mixture becomes thick. Make sure to strain all the ingredients. Barbeque the skewed chicken/beef.

Best served with ta’amu or white rice. Maria Fhebie Ortil

Muslim

A10

World

Beirut blast: At least 78 killed, nearly 4,000 injured A

huge explosion rocked Lebanese capital Beirut on Tuesday, leaving at least 78 people killed and over 3,700 others injured. The blast rocked the Port of Beirut at around 6:10 p.m. local time (1610

GMT), shaking buildings all over the city while causing massive casualties and damages. The number of casualties were expected to rise as the search and counting continued.

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

Islamic Finance Questions and Answers (May Allah bestow on Ethica Institute more wisdom and knowledge) By AMANODING D. ESMAIL, CPA, MPA President, Philippine Association of Islamic Accountants

ZAKAT Second Series

Photo credit to Jakarta Post.

G Dramatic footage captured of the huge blast that ripped through Lebanon’s capital, Beirut. (Al Jazeera) What we know so far: The blast appears to have been centered on the city’s port area. The causes of the blast remained unknown and an investigation is under way to find what had exactly triggered the explosion. But Lebanese Interior Minister Mohammad Fahmi said that the explosive chemicals stored at Port of Beirut may have caused the explosion. Thousands of people sought treatment in nearby hospitals, which were struggling to cope with the huge number of casualties. Lebanese President Michel Aoun said a state of emergency should be declared in Beirut for two weeks following the massive explosion on Tuesday, and he called for an emergency cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Aoun, in remarks published on the Presidency Twitter account, said it was “unacceptable” that 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate was stored in a warehouse for six years without safety measures and vowed that those responsible would face the “harshest punishments”. The U.S. Embassy in Beirut released a statement advising that people wear masks and stay indoors, following “reports of toxic gases released in the explosion.” What is ammonium nitrate?

Ammonium nitrate has a number of different uses, but the two most common are as an agricultural fertilizer and as an explosive. Ammonium nitrate does not burn. However, it will support and increase the rate of combustion in the presence of flammable or combustible materials even in the absence of oxygen. Prime Minister Diab said in the statement it was “unacceptable” that so much explosive material was stored in a warehouse “without taking preventive measures while endangering the safety of citizens.” World offers support, condolences to Lebanon after devastating blasts Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab urged friendly countries to help Lebanon overcome the repercussions of the disastrous explosions. UN chief Antonio Guterres expressed his deepest condolences following the “horrific explosions in Beirut” which he said had also injured some United Nations personnel. U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. “stands ready to assist Lebanon” and that he had met with some U.S. generals who feel the blast was not “some kind of a manufacturing explosion type of event.” President Vladimir Putin

said that“Russia shares the grief of the Lebanese people,” according to a Kremlin statement. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said the country was”ready to provide assistance according to the needs expressed by the Lebanese authorities.” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on social media to say “we think of all those who were injured in this tragic explosion, as well as those who are trying to find a friend or family member or who have lost a loved one. We’re ready to help you.” In the region, Gulf nations were among the first to react, with Qatar promising to send field hospitals to support the medical response. Qatar’s ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani wished “a speedy recovery for the injured,” while the United Arab Emirates’ Vice President and ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, tweeted “our condolences to our beloved people in Lebanon.” Kuwait said it would also send emergency medical aid. Egypt expressed “deep concern” at the destruction, and Arab League chief Ahmed Aboulgheit offered condolences, stressing “the importance of finding the truth about the explosions.” CGTN

iving Total Zakat To Single Person. - May I give all my zakat to a single person? It is permissible to give all of one’s zakat to a single person, but this becomes offensive, though no less valid, if the recipient exceeds the nisab minimum as a result of having received this amount. Distributing Zakat In One’s Area - Is it necessary to distribute zakat only in one’s area? It is recommended to give zakat in one’s area (and offensive not to), unless recipients in another area are more deserving (such as victims of war, zakat eligible relatives, students of Sacred Law, military jihad soldiers fighting intruders, etc.). Obligation Of Zakat On Non-Muslims. - Is zakat obligatory upon non-Muslims? Non-Muslims and apostates to Islam do not pay zakat, even in Muslim lands, nor do they pay zakat for the time spent out of Islam if they later decide to become Muslim. Zakat Of One Unable To Pay In Person - Who is responsible for the zakat of one unable to pay in person? A guardian or trustee must pay zakat from the wealth of a qualifying individual who is unable to pay in person, such as a traveler, prisoner or incapacitated person. Zakat On Behalf Of Insane Individual Or Minor - Is it obligatory to pay zakat on behalf of an insane individual or a minor? There is difference of opinion about the obligatoriness of zakat payment by a guardian on behalf of an insane person or a minor. Imams Shafi’i and Malik hold that it is obligatory while Imam Abu Hanifah holds that it is not. Unpaid Zakat Of Deceased. - Should unpaid zakat be deducted from the estate of a deceased? Unpaid zakat is not taken from the estate of the deceased unless a bequest specifies that the zakat should be paid posthumously, in which case zakat is paid on one-third of the estate, regardless of whether this amount covers the zakat obligation or not; it is permissible, though not obligatory, for the inheritors of the remaining two-third of the estate to fulfill the balance of the zakat obligation from their portion. Obligation Of Zakat On Children. - Must children pay zakat? Children do not pay zakat; neither is the guardian obligated to pay zakat on behalf of the child from the child’s wealth, nor is one expected to pay zakat for one’s childhood; zakat is only obligatory on the zakat-eligible child upon puberty, where actual payment is due one lunar year after puberty. (To be continued)

Philippine Muslim Today Email: muslimtoday2020@gmail.com https://philmuslimtoday.wordpress.com Phone: 09152184388 (Administration) 09778430218 (Editorial)

Eco-Tourism

Vol. I, No. 07 | July 31-August 6, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 10-16, 1441)

Balobok Cave: A significant archaeological site in Southeast Asia By JOHNNY R. LEE, Ph.D.

A11

Surigao Sur PNP tops drive vs. illegal logging, fishing By ALEXANDER LOPEZ

UTUAN CITY – The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) has been recognized for topping the anti-illegal logging and illegal fishing drives in Caraga Region. The recognition was given by the Police Regional Office in Caraga Region (PRO-13) during Thursday's commemoration of the 199th Police Service Anniversary held in this city. Col. James T. Goforth,

SDSPPO director, told the PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY that the campaign against illegal logging and fishing in the province was made possible through the efforts of the local police and residents. “The police stations in partnership with our stakeholders deserve the commendation for this recognition. I thank them for their valuable support to SDSPPO,” Goforth said in an interview.

Surigao Sur | A12

Circular exit down to the Beach of Balobok Cave. (Johnny Tee.)

quite tiny village named Lakit-Lakit in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi possesses a major historic significance where underneath its landscape rests a chain of caves and rock shelters of very important archaeological findings. In it is one of the earliest human settlements in Southeast Asia that dates back to 8,000 to 5,000 years ago. Excavation in the area had led to discovery of ancient artifacts like flake tools, polished stones, earthenware shards, bone tools and animal remains. The site was declared an important Cultural property in 2017 by the Philippine National Government. Balobok (or Boloboc to most book references) is a native tongue term for a ‘mother bangus’ fish. The other meaning of Balobok is the sound produced by upwelling of seawater when huge waves hit the limestone rock formation that stretches the coastal contour of the area which faces the Sulu Sea. At the height of the secessionist movement in the ‘70’s the caves and several of its chambers served as a natural shelter and quarters for the then Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) fighters in the area. Today, the site is one of the most visited landmarks in the Municipality after the iconic Bud Bongao. It offers a white sandy beach adjacent to a couple of cave entrances or exits. It is also a favorite photo spots for ‘Pre-Nuptial’ sessions and almost every week-end a place to hold picnics and relaxation. JOHNNY R. LEE, Ph.D.

Coastal side of Balobok Cave. (Johnny Lee)

DOT reminds hotels to follow health protocols By JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA

ANILA -- Tourism chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat is reminding hotels operating under all levels of community quarantine to strictly follow the health and safety protocols it set for accommodation establishments. "It has come to the attention of the Department of Tourism (DOT) that a number of hotels and accommodation establishments that have been issued Certificates of Authority to Operate (CAO) or Provisional Certificates of Authority to Operate (PCAO) have not been complying with the relevant health and safety guidelines in the accommodation of Returning Overseas Filipinos, OFWs (overseas Filipino workers), and other guests," she said in a letter dated August 3 to Tourism Congress of the Philippines President Jose Clemente III. Romulo-Puyat said the government understands the challenges faced by businesses amid the pandemic but underscored that the health and safety of guests and employees should remain the "primary consideration". The reminder came after a hotel in Pasay reportedly failed to observe DOT's guidelines by allowing its guests to "loiter at the lobby" for hours, some of whom had no proper personal protective equipment, while they waited for vacant rooms. The official said the hotel should have referred the guests to other accommodation establishments if they were overbooked. She warned that the DOT would revoke the CAO of hotels found violating the guidelines. PNA

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Eco-Tourism

Papa Bulls: New tourist attraction in Simunur, Tawi-Tawi By FILEMON ROMERO, Ph.D.

UBIG INDANGAN, Simunul, Tawi-Tawi: The municipality of Simunur (Sama spelling for Simunul) in Tawi-Tawi is known to be the first seat of Islam where the Arab missionary Sheikh Karimul Makdum started to preach Islam to the natives and built the first mosque in Barangay Boheh Indangan in 1380. While a new mosque has been built in the same area, the four pillars which are believed to be from the original mosque are still preserved and is one of the oldest Islamic artifacts of the country. This mosque is the favorite destination of many tourists who visit Tawi-Tawi. Now in addition to the other natural rain catchment pools, white sandy beaches, excellent SCUBA (Selfcontained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) diving sites, there is a new tourist attraction which has gained the interest of tourists especially wildlife enthusiasts. This is the largest saltwater crocodile kept in captivity in the country today. This is the Indo-Pacific crocodile or the saltwater crocodile and its scientific name is Crocodylus porosus. It was caught in the coastal waters of Sokah Bulan, Tampakan, Simunur by a group of fishermen led by Hadji Bullang using a lambat or fish net on September 8,

Papa Bulls in the swampy mangrove area within the municipal complex of the Municipality of Simunur. This crocodile is now a major tourist attraction where several people come to view it. (Photo by Dr. Filemon G. Romero) the largest of all living reptiles, as well as the largest riparian predator in the world and has a lifespan of 70 years. In Tawi-Tawi the known habitats of these saltwater crocodiles are the mangrove areas of Panglima Sugala, Languyan and Tandubas. When this was caught, the croc was about 16 ft. and 11 inches long and had a breast diameter of 3ft and 1 in. Since this species is listed

PAPA BULLS: The Indo-Pacific saltwater crocodile when it was captured by local fishermen led by Hadji Bullang in the coastal waters of Sokah Bulan, Tampakan, Simunur, Tawi-Tawi. (Photo by Dr. Filemon G. Romero) 2017. The Indo-Pacific crocodile is one of the two known species of crocodiles in the Philippines. The other one is the endemic Philippine Crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) the freshwater crocodile which is only found in the Philippines. The Indo-Pacific Crocodile is widespread and is found in the saltwater habitats and brackish wetlands of India, Southeast Asia and even northern Australia and Micronesia. It is

under CITES (Convention on International Trade Endangered Species) as endangered and protected by the Wildlife Act, RA 9147, Series of 2001, when the report was received about the capture of this crocodile, coordination was done with then Governor Rashidin H. Matba and then Mayor Nazif Abdurhaman to ensure that the animal would be safe. A team upon instructions from BMB Director Mundita

Lim, Secretary Kahal Kedtag of DENR ARMM, PENRO Hadji Dr. Jonel Mohammad Monel, CENRO Halim Jowak and Forester Abdulmukim J. Maruji with support from USAID Protect Wildlife Project headed by Dr. Filemon G. Romero went to the area to check on the status of the saltwater crocodile. The place where they have safely kept the crocodile in a swampy mangrove area within the municipal complex of Simunul was visited to determine if it is the right habitat for the crocodile. This was followed by a meeting with the barangay officials and the municipal administrator and they submitted a resolution to the DENR ARMM adopting the crocodile since it is a threatened species and is covered by the Wildlife Act, RA 9147, S. 2001 with the DENR giving guidelines how to take care of this threatened species in captivity. Many wondered how this crocodile reached Simunul because salt water crocodiles were decimated in the area to point of local extinction because of hunting of this species for its hide to be made into expensive leather material and habitat destruction. This saltwater croc may have come from Panglima Sugala so even if they are known to be poor swimmers, this one may have drifted with the current or wandered away in search of food. However, the natives of Simunul say that in 1968, there was an account of a

Vol. I, No. 08 | August 7-13, 2020 (Dhu’l-Hijjah 17-23, 1441)

SURIGAO SUR | from page A11

Surigao Sur PNP tops drive ... Data provided by SDSPPO on Thursday showed that a total of 104 illegal logging operations were conducted by different police stations in Surigao del Sur from October 23, 2019 to August 4, 2020. Some 65,765 board feet of illegally gathered lumbers and 30 cubic meters of illegal logs were confiscated in the area during the period with a total value of over PHP2 million. Also arrested were 99 individuals for engaging in illegal logging activities in the province. On SDSPPO's campaign against illegal fishing, police units in the province launched a total of 72 operations during the period that resulted in the confiscation of over PHP1.5 million worth of illegal fishing paraphernalia and PHP113,877 marine products. The anti-illegal fishing campaign also resulted in the arrest of 186 persons, SDSPPO said. Meanwhile, Goforth said SDSPPO was also recognized for the neutralization of four Abu Sayaff members in February this year. Goforth said the recognition has brought "inspiration and honor" to

all the police personnel in the area in Surigao del Sur. During Thursday's 199th Police Service Anniversary, the Philippine National Police recognized other police units and officers and personnel. The Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) under the leadership of Col. Adolph C. Almendra was awarded the Best Performing Unit of the Year in the Campaign Against Illegal Mining and the Best Police Strategy Management Unit of the Year, while the Surigao City Police Station under Lt. Col. Christian L. Rafols II was recognized as the Best Component City Police Station of the Year. Col. Ringo C. Zarzoso, director of the Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) was also named the Police Senior PCO (Police Commissioned Officer) of the Year for Operations while Maj. Julius Erwin D. Espejo, the Officer-in -charge of the San Francisco Municipal Police Station (SFMPS), was named the Best Junion PCO of the Year for Operations. SFMPS was also named the Best Municipal Police Station of the Year. PNA

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large python which fought with saltwater crocodile where both died. Also if one remembers the Kissa about Napsa Lagayan who was kidnapped by the Sultan of Sulu: “Pagdatung sin bana dain ha paglawagan usaha, nangasubu bang hariin in asawa, in bayta kaniya ayaw mo na lawaga, nakaun na sin buwaya”. (When her husband arrived home after looking for livelihood, he asked for the whereabouts of his wife, but someone told him not to look anymore for his wife as she had been devoured by a crocodile). And from the script of the same Kissa kan Napsa Lagayan written by the playwright Sharifa Pearlsia Ali-Dans who directed the play when she was a faculty member of the Notre Dame of Jolo College she wrote that Tuan Amilhamja, husband of Napsa Lagayan, upon knowing that his wife was eaten by the crocodile said:

“Sapanjang sin ummul ko, In Tamba Kadkarun ku, In Buaya Banta ku”. (As long as I live I will search for my post, and the crocodile is deemed my enemy). This is a historical account that the crocodiles were abundant in the swamps of Simunur even during the time of the Sultanate. Now the local government of Simunul has adopted this saltwater crocodile, has named as Papa Bulls, after the man who captured it, Hadji Bulla. It is safely kept in a swamp area in the grounds of the municipal complex. The Municipal Tourism Officer has included a visit to the swamp area where Papa Bulls is taken cared of as one of the places to visit in Simunur. Now Papa Bulls is in good health and has already grown to more than 17 ft. in length. FILEMON G. ROMERO