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Save the Earth (Page B5)

The Muslim National Digital Newspaper | Bearer of Glad Tidings.

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442) | 2 Sections | 14 Pages

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Bangsamoro parliament approves P75.6-B BARMM budget for 2021 INSIDE:

By MASIDING N. YAHYA and JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Biden receives first dose of coronavirus Vaccine 2020

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ASHINGTON: US Presidentelect Joe Biden on Monday received the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine during a televised event in his home state of Delaware.

(Full Story on Page B1)

Killer-cop a disgrace to police; will pay for crimes: DILG

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ANILA: Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Wednesday labeled Police MSgt. Jonel Nuezca a "cold-blooded murderer" and a "disgrace to the police profession."

Full Story on Page A2

BARMM launches ‘Salamat Awards’ program

BARMM District Engineers vow moral governance

By ALI G. MACABALANG

(Full Story on Page A5)

The Chinese Pier of Tawi-Tawi

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n Tawi-Tawi, the Chinese are thought to be „the engine that generates‟ the wealth and continuing progress that transform the one‟s sleepy town of Bongao into a vibrant and center of trade and industry in the province.

(Full Story on Page B4)

Full Story on Page A2

Regional Deputy Executive Secretary Abdul Cusain, representing Chief Minister Ahod “Hadji Murad” Ebrahim, hands over a plaque to an official of the Omar municipality in Sulu, one of 51 LGUs in BARMM cited for excellent performances this year, in the presence of MILG Minister Naguib Sinarimbo in symbolic rites on Dec. 18 in Cotabato City. (Supplied Photo)

Full Story on Page A3

OATH FOR MORAL GOVENANCE. BARMM Public Works Minister Eduard Guerra administers oath for moral governance of retained Lanao del Sur 2nd District Engineer Maldamin Decampong on Dec. 16 in Cotabato City. (BPI photo)

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The Bangsamoro

BARMM launches ‘Salamat Awards’ program MILG cites performers among 118 LGUs

By ALI G. MACABALANG COTABATO CITY: The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) governance has launched the ―Salamat Award‖ program in honor of the founding chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in espousing ―accountability, participatory and service-oriented leadership.‖ (Also read: BARMM awards best functional LGUs in the autonomous region, launches „Salamat Award‟) The Salamat Excellence for [Active] Leadership (SEAL) award program kicked off on Dec. 18 ceremonies the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center here in time with the BARMM‘s handover of citations and incentives through the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG) for performing local government units (LGUs).

The event was graced by BARMM Chief Minister Ahod ―Hadji Murad‖ Ebeahim, represented by Deputy Executive Secretary Abdullah Cusain, assisted by Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, BARMM spokesman and MILG minister.

Sinarimbo said the SEAL award was initially conceived to recognize the region‘s outstanding local chief executives (LCEs) in barangay, city, municipal and provincial levels.

The MILG momentarily administers the award focused initially for excellent barangay chairs, mayors and governors to be awarded in 2021.

It will be expanded in later years by the BARMM government as a whole or under the Office of the Chief Minister to cover awardees in other fields like social sciences and humanities, arts, engineering, journalism, and community development, among others, Sinarimbo hinted in a message to the Philippine Muslim Today.

Sinarimbo said the SEAL program will be ―the most prestigious award that the (BARMM government) will undertake to recognize‖ LCEs and constituent professionals known for ―excellent performance‖ or successes in their fields.

Winners of the SEAL Award will be known next year, with the outstanding LCEs getting projects worth P250,000 to P2.5 million each.

The MILG and other regional government minds will have to decide on the mechanics for the expanded program to cover non-governmental undertakings or professions, Sinarimbo hinted. ―The award is named after the founding chair of the MILF(Ustadz Salamat Hashim) whose quality of leadership (was) astounding,‖ Sinarimbo was quoted as saying in a report from the Bangsamoro Information Office (BPI).

It aims to contribute in the promotion of ―moral governance in BARMM by popularizing the principle of volunteerism and primary common good demonstrated by Salamat Hashim as key to peace and development,‖ the BPI said.

Sinarimbo said the initial segment of the SEAL award ―will encourage local chief executives and leaders to embrace the principles of accountability, participatory and service-oriented leadership as key to local development; and instill in the heart and mind of leaders and communities the culture of patriotism and promotion of social responsibility.‖ Hashim, vice chair of the Moro National Liberation Front who broke away in the late 1970s to form the MILF to push for socio-political reforms in the context of Islamic governance.

The reclusive Hashim succumbed to a lingering illness on July 13, 2003 at Camp Bushra in Butig, Lanao del Sur, and was succeeded by Ebrahim, who was then the MILF vice chair for military affairs.

Following the ratification of R.A. 11054 (Bangsamoro Organic Law) last year, President Duterte appointed Ebrahim as BARMM interim chief minister alongside other members of the 80seat Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA).

MILG | B3

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

Bangsamoro parliament approves ₱75.6-B BARMM budget for 2021

By MASIDING N. YAHYA and JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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OTABATO CITY: The Bangsamoro Parliament has approved on Wednesday the proposed ₱75.6-billion budget of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for fiscal year 2021, the Bangsamoro Information Office reported.

In a statement furnished the Philippine Muslim Today, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament approved BTA Bill No. 73 entitled ―An Act Appropriating Funds for the Operation of the Bangsamoro Government from January 1 to December 31, 2021, and for Other Purposes.‖ Fifty-five members voted Yes, none voted No, and no abstention.

Following its approval in the plenary, Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod ―Al Haj Murad‖ Ebrahim signed the bill into law as Bangsamoro Appropriations Act (BAA) 2021. The chief minister himself filed Bill No. 73 on November 26, 2020.

Ebrahim earlier said that while the bill presents immediate response to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the autonomous government‘s mandate to rebuild the Bangsamoro ground up remains to be its top priority. ―Our task for the upcoming year is to create programs and policies that will simultaneously revive the economy, deliver basic services to the constituents and revisit our public health institutions,‖ he said. ―The Bangsamoro Organic Law remains to be at the heart of this fiscal design. We propose mechanisms that can effectively address the diverse needs of the Bangsamoro, regardless of their geographic area and/or ethno linguistic identity,‖ said Ebrahim. ―This design, just like last year, continues to echo the call to inclusivity – where initiatives and programs are tailored fit with the respective realities on the ground,‖ he added.

Coverage of the 2021 BARMM‟s budget

BARMM P75.6 BILLION BUDGET. BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim signs the Bangsamoro Transition Authority Bill No. 73 into law, otherwise known as the Bangsamoro Appropriations Act (BAA) 2021, that provides for a block grant of P75.6 billion. Beside him is Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Pangalian Balindong(Bangsamoro Information Office) BAA 2021 covers the proposed budgets of the BARMM‘s different ministries, agencies, and offices, which were thoroughly scrutinized by the subcommittees of the BTA‘s Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management (CFBM).

The following is the breakdown of the budget, with ₱11.2 billion allocated for Special Purpose Fund:

 Ministry of Public Works (MPW) – ₱15.7 billion

 Office of the Chief Minister (OCM) – ₱10.2 billion

 Ministry of Sci-

 Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Management (MFBM) – ₱389.6 million  Ministry of Social, Services, and Development (MSSD) – ₱3.3 billion  Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) – ₱323.5 million  Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE) – ₱274.1 million.

 Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) – ₱623.2 million

 Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) – ₱23.5 billion

 Ministry of Indigenous Peoples‘ Affairs (MIPA) – ₱105.2 million

 Ministry of Health (MOH) – ₱5.1 billion

 Ministry of Interior Local Government (MILG) – ₱1.05 billion  Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) – ₱553.7 million

 Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD) – ₱811 million ence and Technology (MOST) – ₱197.2 million

 Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reforms (MAFAR) – ₱1.5 billion  Ministry of Public Order and Saftety (MPOS) – ₱108.8 million

 Office of the Wali – ₱33 million  Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) – ₱85 million  Bangsamoro Attorney General Office (BAGO) – ₱41 million  Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) – ₱97.4 million  Bangsamoro Women Commission (BWC) – ₱71.6 million

 Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC) – ₱76.7 million

The ₱75.6-billion budget is appropriated out of the annual block grant from the National Government, share in the National Government taxes, fees and charges collected in the Bangsamoro territorial jurisdiction, and projected collections on regional taxes, fees and charges for the operation of the Bangsamoro Government from January 1 to December 31, 2021.

BTA Parliament‟s 2021 budget Before the passage of Bill No. 73, the BTA approved earlier that day the proposed ₱3.7billion pesos budget for its operation.

Member of Parliament (MP) Atty. Anna Tarhata Basman, chair of Parliament‘s Committee on Account and Audit, said the proposal poses an increase of ₱1.1-billion from the ₱2.6-billion budget of BTA Parliament this year because of ―the approval of our improved and more robust organizational structure.‖ The budget breaks down to maintenance and other operating expenses at ₱2.335 billion pesos, personnel expenses at ₱1.284 billion, and capital outlay at ₱87.781 million pesos.

BANGSAMORO | B3

The Bangsamoro

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

BARMM awards best functional LGUs in the autonomous region, launches ‘Salamat Award’

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OTABATO CITY: The Bangsamoro government has granted some 118 Local Government Units (LGU) in the autonomous region with awards and incentives for their excellent performance for the year 2020.

oriented leadership as key to local development; and instil in the heart and mind of leaders and communities the culture of patriotism and promotion of social responsibility Awarding ceremony for SEAL will be held next year where each awardee will be given plaque of recognition, gold plated medallion worth 250,000 and 2.5 million worth of project.

LoGFA and LTIA 51 LGUs from the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi -Tawi were awarded with the LoGFA, and each received P200,000 and a plaque of recognition.

Sinarimbo said LoGFA aims to define, operationalize, and assess the functionality of LGUs in the region.

On the other hand, eight barangays bagged the LTIA where the champion received P125,000, first place with P100,000, and P75,000 for the second

placer.

For the 4th-6th class category, Brgy.

Kauran in Ampatuan, Maguindanao was declared as champion.

First and second places were awarded, respectively, to Brgy.

Mao in Datu Abdullah Sangki of the same province and to Brgy.

Pindolonan in Buadiposo Bunting, Lanao del Sur. For the 1st-3rd class category, the champion was Brgy.

Rempes in Upi, Maguindanao, 1st and 2nd placers were Brgy. Cebuano Group in Wao, Lanao del Sur and Brgy. Tumahubong in Sumisip, Basilan.

Brgy. Tumbras in Midsayap, North Cotabato received P125,0000 under the special geographic area category, while Brgy.

Limo-ok in Lamitan City, Basilan also received the same prize under the city category.

Furthermore, P20,000 was also giv-

en each to 10 barangays from the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and the city of Lamitan for being regional finalists. ―This aims to recognize functional local governments and barangays whose ‗Lupon Tagapamayapa‘ have excelled in settling disputes in their communities,‖ Sinarimbo added.

Special Anti-Drug Abuse Council Awards were also given to LGUs who sustained drug-cleared status of their drug-affected barangays and for maintaining a drug-free status of their unaffected barangays.

Forty-nine BARMM municipalities received the said award—25 awardees for sustaining drug cleared status of their drug-affected barangays, and 24 for maintaining a drug free status for their unaffected barangays. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

BARMM regional police office turns-over long firearms to Lanao Sur police MARAWI CITY: The Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PROBAR) has turned-over to Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office eightyeight units of Long Firearms 5.56MM BAR Galil ACE22N. PBGEN Samuel P Rodriguez, PRO BAR regional director, presided over the turn-over

ceremony held at the Governor Mamintal M Adiong, Sr. MultiPurpose Hall at Camp Bagong Amai Pakpak here on Monday Dec. 21, 2020, according to a statement furnished Philippine Muslim Today.

The 88 5.56MM Basic Assault Rifle (BAR) Galil ACE22N with complete accesso-

ries issued by PRO BAR are combat proven, and is one of the most reliable weapons under adverse and extreme conditions and very essential to PNP Personnel to effectively do their daily tasks and duties especially in operation.

These newly procured light weapons will be distributed to the different Municipal Police

BARMM District Engineers vow moral governance

By ALI G. MACABALANG

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By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

At the same time on Friday, Dec. 18, it also launched the ‗Salamat Excellence Award for Leadership (SEAL) at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex here, The 118 LGUs were awarded with the Local Government Functional Appraisal Award (LoGFA) and Lupon Tagapamayapa Incentive Award (LTIA) for excellent performance.

Salamat Award Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, MILG Minister on Monday said the ‗Salamat Award‘ is designed to recognize performing Local Chief Executives (LCEs) in the BARMM. It is the most prestigious award that the region would undertake to recognize LCEs who show excellent performance, he added. ―The award is named after Salamat Hashim, the founding chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), whose quality of leadership is astounding,‖ said Sinarimbo added.

The SEAL Program aims to contribute in the establishment of a Moral Governance in the BARMM by popularizing the principle of volunteerism and primary common good as demonstrated by Sheikh Salamat Hashim as key to regional peace and development.

Sinarimbo said it would also encourage local chief executives and leaders to embrace the principles of accountability, participatory and service-

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Stations based on the following category: MPS with below 5 Long Firearms, MPS along MSR/ under threat and MPS with below 10 Long Firearms.

PCOL Rex O Derilo received the said firearms witnessed by Lanao del Sur Provincial Governor MAMINTAL ―BOMBIT‖ ALONTO, ADIONG, JR. (MNY)

OTABATO CITY: The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has installed to office its district engineers in constituent provinces in separate ceremonies this month, with the designated officials pledging utmost observance of moral governance in engineering activities.

BARMM‘s Public Works Minister Eduard Uy Guerra administered the oath-taking ceremonies, mandating the newly installed field engineering officials to make oaths for moral administration and make the difference in the autonomous region, which still belongs to the country‘s circle of three ―three poorest regions.‖ Stakeholders lauded the BARMM processes in the wake of President Duterte‘s pronouncements that the Department Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has remained one of government agencies replete with alleged graft and corrupt cases.

Minister Guerra, an architect by profession administered the latest oath-taking ceremony on Lanao del Sur 2nd District Engineer Maldamin B. Decampong on December 16 here.

Engr. Decampong had served as founding head of the Malabang, Lanao del Sur-District Engineering office under the administration of Regional Governor Lininding Pangadaman of the defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

His oath-making followed similar acts early this month by six other district engineers in other BARMM areas.

OATH FOR MORAL GOVENANCE. BARMM Public Works Minister Eduard Guerra administers oath for moral governance of retained Lanao del Sur 2nd District Engineer Maldamin Decampong on Dec. 16 in Cotabato City. (BPI photo) The Bureau of Public Information (BPI) named the six earlier installed officials as Omar Istarul of Basilan lone district, Ajan Ajijul of Sulu 1st District, Az-zamier Arbison of Sulu 2nd district, Borris Zanzibar Kadil of Tawi-Tawi lone district, Emran Buisan of Maguindanao 2nd district, and Abolcair Langilao of Lanao del Sur 1st District.

Not mentioned or included in the list of installed district engineers was that of the first district of Maguindanao, which Engineer James Mlok headed under the administrations of Governors Hooky Adiong and Mujiv Hataman in the defunct ARMM. Engr. Decampong was all praises for the BARMM governance in giving him the opportunity to prove his worth. ―I assure the Bangsamoro leadership that I will live up to their expectations and will deliver MPW‘s commitments through moral governance,‖ the BPI quoted Decampong as saying on Dec. 16.

Also sworn to office on the same day were Director General Engr. Danilo A. Ong and Atty. Sittie Nadia M. Karim, CPA, as the new Director for Management Support Service of MPW. Decampong, together with Deputy Chief Minister Ali Solaiman, recently turned over P90-million worth completed infra-projects to recipient local government units in Lanao‘s 2nd District last November.

BARMM Parliament‘s Committee on Finance approved recently some P15-billion worth infraprojects for the whole region‘s fiscal year 2021, including the 63 Barangays in North Cotabato.

Identified projects on MPWs Bangsamoro Expenditure Program (BEP) include bridges, major and local road networks, shore/slope and flood control facilities, seaports and potable water systems. ALI G. MACABALANG

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The Nation

PTFoMS marks landmark conviction of Ampatuan massacre suspects

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

BIFF member slain in Maguindanao military encounter

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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AMP SIONGCO, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao: A member of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was killed during an encounter in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on the morning of Wednesday, the WestMinCom Commander said.

AMPATUAN MASSACRE VERDICT. The legal counsels (foreground) and the accused in the 2009 Maguindanao massacre case await the verdict at the Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on Dec. 19, 2019. The Presidential Task Force on Media Security on Saturday (Dec. 19, 2020), commemorated the landmark decision of Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 221 Presiding Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes who found 197 accused guilty, including eight members of the Ampatuan clan, for the gruesome murder of 58 people, including 32 media workers, on Nov. 29, 2009 in Ampatuan, Maguindanao. (Screengrab from PTV-4) MALACANANG, Manila: The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) commemorated the 1st anniversary of the guilty verdict handed down by Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 221 Presiding Judge Jocelyn SolisReyes on the Ampatuan Massacre case that was handed over in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on December 19 last year.

In a statement furnished to the Philippine Muslim Today, the PTFoMS also called on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to heed the cries for justice of the victims‘ real families and colleagues by classifying the case as resolved.

The task force also vowed to remain steadfast and relentless in its efforts to arrest the remaining suspects.

The Philippine National Police (PNP), a member of PTFoMS, released an order to intensify the manhunt for the suspects who remain at large and placed a bounty for the capture of suspects Datu Bahnarin A. Ampatuan and Datu Saudi Ampatuan Jr. at PhP 300,000 each. The reward for the arrest of the remaining suspects was set at Php250,000 each.

PTFoMS made these statements to commemorate the landmark decision that found 197 accused guilty, including eight (8) members of the Ampatuan clan, for the gruesome murder of 58 people that took place on November 23, 2009 in Ampatuan, Maguindanao. Among the victims were 32 media workers. ―More than a decade has passed since this horrifying crime against free speech and humanity has happened. Many, in fact, doubted that justice will be obtained in our lifetime. It took the political will of the Duterte administration to finally convict the suspects. Once more, I have nothing but praises for Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes for her sacrifice, tenacity, and strong-will resolving this convoluted case,‖ PTFoMS Co-Chair and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin M. Andanar said.

PTFoMS Executive Director Undersecretary Joel Sy Egco explained that ―legal experts have acknowledged the decision as a milestone in Philippine judicial history. This horrendous attack against media workers that marred the country‘s image has finally been resolved. Justice has been achieved.‖ ―Unfortunately, some organizations misrepresenting themselves as families and friends of the victims have irresponsibly influenced UNESCO to rescind its original decision to classify the case as resolved to serve their selfish ends,‖ Egco revealed.

It should be recalled that on July 31, 2020, owing to the guilty verdict, UNESCO has classified the case as resolved. However, UNESCO later on flip-flopped on its commitment and decided to retain the status of the case as still on-going or unresolved.

PTFOMS | B3

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said, ―Troops of the Limpongo Patrol Base were conducting checkpoint operations in Barangay Limpongo, Datu Hoffer when they encountered more or less 10 members of the BIFF.‖ Vinluan said the 45minute exchange of fires resulted in the death of one enemy and the wounding of a member of the Civilian Active Auxiliary. ―We immediately deployed supplemental

troops to reinforce the engaged troops and pursue the fleeing enemies in the mountainous part of Datu Hoffer,‖ said Lt. Col. Cresencio Sanchez, Jr., Commander, 1st Mechanized Battalion.

Lt. Col. Sanchez, Jr. further said that the wounded CAA incurred a gunshot wound on his left leg. ―He was rushed by the troops to IPHO Maguindanao for immediate medical treatment‖.

While clearing the encounter site, troops recovered the dead body of the slain BIFF

member who was identified as a.k.a. Nasser Kandao. Also recovered were one M16 rifle, one XRM motorcycle, and two short magazines. ―I already directed our soldiers to conduct combat patrol along Ampatuan and Shariff Aguak National Highway and establish blockade on the possible enemy withdrawal routes,‖ said Col. Ferdinand Lacadin, Officer-in-Charge of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade.

The cadaver of a.k.a.

Nasser Kandao and the recovered motorcycle were turned over to Datu

Hoffer Municipal Police Station while the recovered firearm was deposited at 1MechBn headquarters for safekeeping.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central commended the gallantry of the soldiers and CAA members of the Limpongo Patrol Base. ―We are grateful that our battle casualty incurred just a minor injury and is now feeling better at the hospital,‖ said Maj. Gen. Uy. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Solon cites need to boost PNP chief's disciplinary powers MANILA -- Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa on Thursday floated the need to revisit Republic Act No. 8551 or the ―Philippine National Police Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998," saying some of its provisions especially those pertaining to the disciplinary powers of the PNP chief are urgently needed.

"We have to strengthen the power, especially the disciplinary mechanism of the PNP. The police chief needs to be equipped with the ability to enforce discipline and proper sanctions to the police officials," said the senator, a former PNP chief.

Dela Rosa compared

By CHRISTINE CUDIS

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa the functions of the PNP chief and its military counterpart, saying in certain situations the head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) may put behind bars an officer who is proven guilty.

"Sa PNP, hindi mo pwede ikulong hangga‘t walang kaso (In the

PNP, you cannot put them to prison until there are no charges)," he said.

The PNP faced intrigues anew following the shooting incident in Paniqui, Tarlac on Dec. 20 that involved off-duty Police Master Sgt. Jonel Nuezca who gunned down two civil-

ians. ―In the case of Nuezca, where it was shown in the video that it the victims were shot in cold-blood. The PNP Chief should have been able to give out an order to dismiss him (summary dismissal)," dela Rosa said in Filipino.

According to the National Police Commission, the summary dismissal in the PNP takes 30 days for them to afford suspect due process.

PNP chief Debold Sinas, who personally attended the wake of the victims, guaranteed that the process to dismiss Nuezca is underway.

PNA

Signs of trauma seen in killer cop’s child M

ANILA: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Thursday appealed anew to the public to be considerate in expressing their sentiments against the 13-year-old daughter of Police Master Sgt. Jonel Nuezca who recently gunned down two civilians in Paniqui, Tarlac. ―There are manifestations of trauma. It also doesn‘t help the situation if people continue

to bash her on social media,‖ DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said via Viber message.

Dumlao said it is important for the child to go through the process of healing from the incident. ―Let us allow the child to recover from this traumatic experience,‖ she added.

UNICEF Philippines, meanwhile, also urged the Philippine National Police to im-

plement its child protection policy.

"As a signatory to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Philippines is dutybound to uphold the right of all children to be protected from all forms of violence, and their right to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment that develops their potentials and capacities,‖ UNICEF said in a statement.

On Wednesday, the Commission on the

Welfare of Children (CWC) said it has provided psychological intervention for the minors who witnessed the crime that happened on Dec. 20.

CWC officer John Principio forwarded an update to the Philippine News Agency saying the information regarding the recovery of the two minors are considered confidential but will be shared in due time.

PNA

Across the Nation

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

Killer-cop a disgrace to police; will pay for crimes: DILG M

ANILA: Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Wednesday labeled Police MSgt. Jonel Nuezca a "cold-blooded murderer" and a "disgrace to the police profession."

The shooting incident, recorded on a mobile phone, has since gone viral. ―Justice will be served to the family of victims Sonya and son Frank Anthony Gregorio. Hindi natin palalagpasin ang karumaldumal na pagpatay sa kanila.

Mabubulok si Nuezca sa kulungan (We will not let this gruesome killing pass.

He will rot in jail),‖ he said. ―Sinira nya ang magandang imahe ng kapulisan na mahabang taon na nating pinaghihirapan. Isa siya sa mga bulok sa hanay ng kapulisan na kailangan nating walisin at turuan ng leksiyon (He tainted the good image of the police that we have worked hard to improve for a long time. He is one of the rotten eggs in the ranks of the police whom we have to get rid of and teach a lesson).‖ Año updated President Rodrigo Duterte on the criminal case against Nuezca who has been subjected to an inquest by the Tarlac provincial prosecutor for two counts of murder.

The cases were docketed as Criminal Case Nos. 313-20 and 314-20 at the Regional Trial Court of Paniqui.

The accused, he said, has smeared the memory of 229 police officers who were killed in action while fighting crime, drug syndicates, and communistterrorists since 2016, apart from 812 others who have been wounded in police operations.

"We will now have to work doubly hard to rebuild the reputation of the police organization and institute more reforms to prevent a re-

In a news release, Año assured the public that Nuezca would face the full force of the law for the double murder of a mother and son over an altercation in Paniqui, Tarlac last Sunday.

KILLER COP. Police MSgt. Jonel Nuezca (PNP photo) peat of this incident,‖ Año said, noting that the Philippines‘ improved 12th ranking in the 2020 Global Law and Order Gallup Survey and the people‘s confidence in the police force were largely due to the Philippine National Police‘s (PNP) intensive anticriminality campaign in previous years.

He called the survey result a testament to the PNP‘s long but decisive efforts to improve the law enforcement system in the country.

Both the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the PNP would never tolerate wrongdoings in the police service, Año said, appealing to the public not to condemn the entire police organization for Nuezca‘s crimes.

"Ang kasalanan ng ilang bulok na pulis ay hindi kasalanan ng buong 220,800 police organization (The sins of a few rotten cops are not the sins of the entire police organization),‖ he said. ―Ang ating kapuli-

san ay buong tapang na nagsisilbi ng tapat sa publiko. Sana huwag natin iyang kalimutan (The police force is bravely serving the public. We should not forget that).‖ Reforms in PNP A total of 16,839 police officers have been penalized since 2016 under the PNP‘s internal cleansing program to rid its ranks of scalawags.

Data showed that 4,784 police personnel have been dismissed from the service, 8,349 have been suspended, and 1,803 have been reprimanded.

Other punishments included demotion, forfeiture of salary, restriction, and withholding of privileges.

Some 564 PNP personnel have also been removed for involvement in illegal drugs. ―Kaya itong si Nuezca ay tiyak na mabubulok sa kulungan tulad ng mga nauna nang tinanggal at kinasuhan ng PNP (Nuezca will surely rot

in jail, just like the others before him who have been dismissed and facing charges),‖ Año said.

In a public address, Duterte condemned the senseless killings, warning other police officers against abuse. ―Your actions must be in accordance with the law. You do not follow the law, magsalvage ka, magpatay ka diyan (if you salvage or kill), then I‘m sorry, that is not part of the agreement of how we should do our work,‖ he said.

Police as anti-Covid front-liners Año said since the start of the pandemic in March, a total of 91,544 police officers have been serving on the front lines to fight the deadly virus.

As a result, 8,735 Covid cases within the police organization have been reported, with 27 deaths, 337 still battling the disease, and 8,371 who have since recovered.

Of the 91,544 police officers, 54,471 have been deployed to quarantine control points, dedicated control points, quick response teams, national support units, and various ports, among others, while 37,073 have been assigned as reactionary standby support force.

"Let‘s not forget that there are thousands of policemen and policewomen out there who are performing their duties well to serve and protect the people, even those who condemn them,‖ Ano said. ―Kaya huwag po nating lahatin ang ating kapulisan (Let's not include the entire police force in this).‖ (PR)

“No one should boast over another; and no one should oppress another.”

- Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

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BFBCI and DA joined forces to serve businesses

By ABDUL HANNAN MAGARANG TAGO

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lhamdulillah, after several years of tireless efforts, the Bangsamoro Federal Business Council Inc. BFBCI managed to ink cooperation with major business entities in the country including Makati Business Club, Filipino Chinese Federation and Malaysian Chamber of Commerce.

Now with the Department of Agriculture to help Bangsamoro traders to uplift their economic situation.

In 2017, I joined the just formed first Bangsamoro business group founded by now Department of Trade and Industries (DTI) Undersecretary Abdulgani Macatoman and RDO Nasraili Conding, the group president, to create a high profile business community as frontliners to deal with the country's businessmen in highlighting the contribution of the Muslim traders and uplifting their economic situation.

We aimed also to enhance and promote business coordination and networks with both local and international investors. Attended and took part in top business leaders talks and gathering.

We engaged and did organized various business conferences including the 2017 business forum in Marawi City immediately following the liberation of the city where Manila-based, Davao and foriegn partners were presents.

We did organized our first Global Business Forum at Manila Hotel last year attended by a number of cabinet members. BARMM Cheif Minister, Ahod "Haj Murad" Balawag was the guest of honor.

We initiated to contact with Muslim traders as ultimate targets of BFBCI to benefit from its efforts.

Last year we strengthen our ties with Greenhills Muslim traders that concluded with signing of deals.

TAGO | B3

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Editorial

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

DATU YUSOPH B. MAMA Chairman, Board of Trustees MASIDING NOOR YAHYA President/CEO JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL Vice President for Internal Affairs ALI G. MACABALANG Vice President for External Affairs ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL Treasurer MACOD D. RASCAL Secretary CASAN C. CANA Auditor

PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY MASIDING NOOR YAHYA Editor-In-Chief and Publisher JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL Managing Editor Bureau Chief for National Capital Region ALI G. MACABALANG News Editor Bureau Chief for Bangsamoro & Central Mindanao Regions ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL Bureau Chief for Northern Mindanao Region JOHNNY R. LEE Bureau Chief for Western Mindanao Region

‘Peace and Order’ stability is an urgent priority of the Bangsamoro government

PHIL MUSLIM Layout Artist FATIMA ORTIL-JANNARAL Advertising Sales Director for NCR NUR-ALI A. MACABALANG Correspondent COLUMNISTS | WRITERS: ATTY. HOMOBONO A. ADAZA DR. BENJ BANGAHAN ATTY. JUAN PONCE ENRILE DR. JOHNNY R. LEE ATTY. NASSER A. MAROHOMSALIC DR. FILEMON G. ROMERO ATTY. MEHOL K. SADAIN DR. ABDUL HANNAN M. TAGO DISCLAIMER: Opinion of the writer expressed herein is not necessarily the opinion of Philippine Muslim Today nor of its management.

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Front page of PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY previous issue.

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ourist spots and eco-tourism in the Bangsamoro region if developed can be world-class, and if managed properly can generate income the region has never had. We know this as a fact.

Even observers living outside the Bangsamoro, really know it as a fact.

But the only thing that hinders tourism growth is the absence of stable peace and order in the area. And yes, volatile peace does not only obstructs a boom of the tourism industry but also hinders almost practically all socio-economic development.

How many millions of dollars have been poured into the region from both national and international agencies, governmental and non-governmental, with corresponding training to educate for good governance and administration to help it alleviate from poverty? The answer is countless. Yet, it did not help Muslim Mindanao to take off from being poor or less developed.

The creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was meant to herald an era of peace and much needed economic development in the Philippines’ troubled southern region. Yet, despite a huge budget, the transitional government installed in February 2019 will not be able to meet its reform timetable.

In an exclusive interview, the late Ghazali Jaafar, Number 2 MILF man who prominently played a role in the negotiating table with the government, said in order to attain peace in Mindanao, the national government must agree with the demand of the Moro Islamic liberation Front (MILF) so that there will be peace and stability in the trouble region.

Now the deal was closed but the promised peace is still subtle.

As peace is elusive, and so is development. Without peace, there will be no outside investors in the real sense of the word, no tourism, and there will be no economic boom. That is the reality. That is still the truth: No peace, no development.

The Bangsamoro government should not only keep itself busy in promoting relief assistance extended to various sectors within and without the autonomous region, bills being enacted into law, and propagating other not so significant things flagshipped by its ’moral governance’ slogan but also prioritize something for the realization of the long-dreamt peace to reign in this part of the world.

For, all dreams for development and prosperity depend upon the stability of peace. So that if investors are convinced that peace truly reigns in our region and it is safe for them to do their businesses here, or tourists to spend leisure and business times here, the Bangsamoro economy will boom and people can start to enjoy a peaceful life. PMT

Opinion

Ijtihad MEHOL K. SADAIN

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funds we have for the vaccine.

Reality bites and it hurts.

While Singapore already got its first shipload of Pfizer vaccines, we are still scouring rock-bottom for funds. Worse, if we are to believe the Philippine Ambassador to the United States and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, our Health Secretary bungled a deal that would have given us vaccines which we do not have to immediately pay for. According to Sec. Teddy Locsin, somebody ―dropped the ball‖. In this case, dropping the ball did not mean that one has ―butterfingers‖. It simply pointed out to a bungled deal due to inexcusable negligence.

This question has been dropped and it appears that our only concern now is how to finance the purchase of millions of vaccines. Financing via loans may be viable, but it will take a toll on the credit capability of the country, espe-

he vaccines are coming! The statement resonates like the sight of a cruising ship by one who has been marooned for years in an isolated isle. The authorities in this country have pinned their hopes of fighting covid19 on the availability of a vaccine. Finally, several versions of the vaccine are now being developed and marketed by foreign pharmaceutical companies coming from different countries.

The first question was concerned with the availability of the vaccine. Once this was answered, other questions came up. Two of the more immediate ones are: 1) Do we have the money to buy vaccines sufficient for our population? 2) Are the vaccines safe?

It seems that the government is resorting to a loan with the Asian Development Bank to beef up the meagre

Batanes to Tawi-Tawi JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

I

ncidentally, the Digital Online Issue Vol. 1, No. 28 of Philippine Muslim Today falls on inclusive week of December 25-31, 2020, where December 25 is a Christmas Day Celebration for the Christians. On the other hand, December 31 is the Eve of New Year‘s Day, where some Muslims though do not celebrate it but some usually greet each other both Muslims and non-Muslims alike saying, ― Happy New Year.‖ Hence, this Batanes To Tawi-Tawi Columnist who has only shallow background on Islamic Teachings formulated this question: Can we greet non-Muslims Merry Christmas or vice-versa, is it just OK for them to greet us Muslims also with the same greetings?

With this question, I consulted the Philippine Muslim Today Islamic Religious Adviser, Aleem Said Ahmad Basher so that I will not be misled or be writing an unverified facts to avoid ending up as a subject of criticism. I have a very high esteem on Aleem Said not because he is my fraternal brother in the Alpha Sigma Phi, an international fraternity founded in 1845, and a brother in Islam,

but he is also my personal Consultant every time I wrote subject matters pertaining to Islam and Muslim in a national daily, The Manila Times that I have been writing since 1992 as a Senior Correspondent.

Before going farther to this topic, I would like to share to my readers about who is Aleem Said for everyone to know about his credential as Islamic Religious Adviser.

He was born, in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1951 to Sheikh Ahmad and Zinab both of Maranao parents. He was the second child and son among five children of Sheikh Ahmad to his first wife.

Because of his passion for the Islamic way of life, like his father, Aleem Said decided to pursue a bachelor's degree in Islamic Propagation at AlAzhar University in Cairo, Egypt which he graduated in 1994.

He has also master's degree in business administration and a bachelor's degree in commerce both completed at the Manuel L. Quezon University (MBA-1983 & B.Sc.1975) in Manila respectively.

Aleem Said is married to Saidah Sambarani, from a

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

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TO VACCINATE OR TO VACILLATE? cially if interest rates are exorbitant.

Which brings us to the second question: Is the vaccine safe? The manufacturers say they are, and the governments who bought them reiterate the claim that they are safe, as they are also necessary. Thus, Great Britain had its first injection of the vaccine televised. The United States followed suit and with no less than President-Elect Joe Biden getting himself vaccinated on prime TV. Some experts say that the mRNA nature of the vaccine is a first of its kind in the world. Whereas in the past, inactive forms of the culprit virus are injected into the patient‘s body, this time the injection is armed with untried protein stimulant that will trigger the body to produce a protein that will enable it to produce antibodies to fight the virus entering the body of a person. The huge concern is we do not know yet what else the stimulant will or can do to the host body. Will it result in other physical malfunctions?

Will it change the cellular make-up of a person? Will it turn the host into zombies just like in some science fiction movies? Or are we just overly concerned and over-reacting over nothing? Some people, therefore, say they will first wait.

If waiting is a safeguard to the possible danger, then should not we be happy that we are late in procuring the vaccine? This will give us more time to find out if the vaccine has side-effects, by observing its effect on the people in countries which had the vaccines early. Thus, the late acquisition can provide us with ample confirmatory period which will allow us to know how the vaccine affects a person. The late acquisition is a blessing-in-disguise, after all?

Whatever happens, it is obvious we need a broader and more expansive solution to the covid19 problem. We need to immunize our population to stop the virus from spreading by depriving it of host bodies. Our people have to develop anti-bodies, either

from vaccination or previous exposure to, and survival from, the disease. We cannot continue to vacillate between being vaccinated or not, because while we are suspended in self-imposed indecision, the virus is mutating into other varieties. Just like the discovery that the London covid19 has mutated into a more contagious variety, leading London to ban travels, and other countries to ban travelers from London and the United Kingdom.

Meanwhile 2021 is fast approaching. In less than two weeks we will be rid of 2020, but we cannot be sure if we will also be rid of the pandemic and catastrophes that haunted 2020. Maybe we should just stop looking back.

As a quote goes: ―When looking back doesn‘t interest you anymore, you‘re doing something right.‖ It could be an effective way of ridding ourselves of the ghosts and zombies of our past. Then of course, we can also pray because prayer is usually forward-looking. MKS

ON CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR GREETINGS! prominent family in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur. For my question on Christmas and New Year greetings to be answered in an Islamic point of view, just like in a Supreme Court Decision, I am glad to present two opinions, the one written by a Ponente or the member to whom the Court, after the deliberation on the merit of the case, assigns the writing of its decision or resolution in the case; and the dissenter, or simply one who writes the dissenting opinion.

So in the case at Bar, Aleem Said is the Ponente.

He said and I quote: ―Deeds reward base on intention. It is not bad to greet them for social friendship only, without religious aspect.‖ So it is now very clear from the religious opinion of the Al-Azhar University alumnus that greeting a nonMuslim friend with a Yuletide Season‘s greetings is not bad or forbidden to greet them, ―Merry Christmas or to reciprocate their greetings by saying, Merry Christmas too.‖ This is as long as the intention is out of friendship or to socialize with them. And Aleem Said emphasized as long as there is no religious implications, but purely so-

cialization.

In the same manner, with the forthcoming New Year on January 1, 2021, though we have our own Amun Jadid, he said it is also not bad to extend a New Year‘s greetings to our Neighbors or NonMuslim friends by saying, ―Happy New Year.‖ The justification to this is just the same as what had been explained in extending Merry Christmas. Right at the time I was writing this piece, lots of incoming messages are coming in to the Inbox of my Facebook Messenger extending Christmas greetings from friends. It would be unkind or awkward for me not to reply them, by simply saying, ―likewise, or same to you.‖ Or it would be very much improper if you reply, ―I am a Muslim and I don‘t celebrate Christmas because that is the religious practice of the Christians.‖ Somehow let us go back to the other side of the coin, the dissenting opinion as I have said on the Christmas greetings. To our readers, I am going to present what has been posted in Facebook by the group by calling it as ISLAM TALK. The one who appears to be a writer of dissenting opinion is undoubtedly our Muslim brother who has converted to

Islam that we popularly call them as ―Balik-Islam‖ as to distinguish from a Bangsamoro Muslim. And his name is Joenardson Jalil Satur Divino.

Speaking in Tagalog, Jalil called upon his relatives that he is thankful to them for giving him importance and painstakingly trying to greet him ―Maligayang Pasko.‖ However, Jalil advised his relatives not to feel bad or get angry at him if he cannot reciprocate their Christmas greetings. He said it is not in conformity or simply against with the teachings of Islam.

In fact he added, ―it is not also within the teachings of your faith.‖ Jalil said ―it is also my wish that we will be together in exploring the truth and that is how important my love and care for all of you.

That is why I hope you will devote your time towards Islam and study the good teachings of this faith.‖ Postscript: Be that as it may, Batanes To Tawi-Tawi in particular and the Management and Staff of Philippine Muslim Today in general would like to greet each and everyone of you with a ―Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2021.‖ For your comments and suggestions please send an E-mail to: munir1845media@gmail.com

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Opinion

Diliman Way

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

LOVE SONGS THAT DEFY TIME

HOMOBONO A. ADAZA which she sings quite well to the delight of her local and international audiences.

It is also the most popular love song in many areas in Misamis Oriental and Camiguin, and most probably in other places where Cebuano is the dominant language.

Here go the plaintive and nostalgic lines:

““In time the Rockies may tumble Gibraltar may crumble They’re only made of clay But our love is here to stay.”

- Our Love Is Here to Stay “It’s still the same old story A fight for love and glory A case of do or die The world will always welcome lovers As time goes by.”

- As Time Goes By

L

ove songs are universal, they are eternal. They defy time, circumstance, nationality, partisanship and commitments.

Friends and enemies sing and admire songs of love in all languages I only know a few words of French but I love to hear Edith Piaf and Cocoy Laurel sing La Vie En Rose. Of course, I can speak Spanish but not as fluently as my late father who is spoke it like a Spaniard. So don‘t get surprised when I love to sing Historia de un Amor and Besame Mucho but not with the same passion and verve as Andrea Bocelli and Nat King Cole.

Since my native tongue is Cebuano Visayan, I can‘t help singing songs in that language despite the passage of time. With apologies to the composers as I may have missed a word or two since I am writing them from memory, I wish to share with

you, friends and foes alike, four Cebuano Visayan songs worth remembering and singing.

MATUD NILA: This is phrase which is very familiar to those who speak the Cebuano language. When one wishes to escape responsibility for words or information that is uncertain in either their denotation or implication or both, one seeks refuge in matud nila – which in English means according to them In the inimitable words of my late legendary father of our town for almost twenty years, Pedro Adaza, Jr., ―that is to their according‖ which provokes laughter from his mixed audience.

Like many love songs in Cebuano, it speaks of simplicity and humility of unrequited love. It also defines love in the most glorious and incandescent lines. It is one of the favorites of First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos,

Matud nila ako dili angay Nga magmangad sa imong gugma Matud nila ikaw dili malipay Kay akoy bahandi nga igasa kanimo Gugmang putli mao day pasalig Maoy bahanding labaw sa bulawan Matud nila kaanogon lamang Sa akong gugma ug parayeg Nganong dili maluba king pagbati Sa bisan sa unsa nga katarungan Kay unsay pay bili ning kinabuhi Kon sa gugma mo hinikawan Ingna ko nga dili ka motoo Sa pagtamay kong naangkon Ingna ko nga dili mo kawangon Damgo ug pasalig sa gugma mo. the

It has been translated into English language by

many. The translation which is most familiar to me, a mixture of the literal and idiomatic, is that of my late younger brother, lawyer Cesilo ―Celing‖ Adaza, with a little editing from me. He sang it in the original Cebuano and translated into English after every line.

According to them I am unworthy To treasure your love According to them you‟ll not be happy Since I have no wealth to offer you Pure love is the only promise It‟s wealth that‟ worth more than gold According to them what a waste Of my love and affection Why is this love forever?

For all imaginable reasons And what worth is life?

If I‟m deprived of your love Tell me you won‟t believe The words which belittle me Tell me you won‟t waste The dream and promise for your love.

LONELINESS: Equally plaintive and nostalgic is KAMINGAW SA PAYAG. It is not a case of unrequited love but a matter of deserted love.

It is lovely and popular among politicians in cities and towns they use it as their

DIPLOMATIC CIRCLE NEWS UPDATES

Foreign Affairs Secretary Locsin gives two distinguished citation awards to the Philippine Embassy in Jordan AMMAN, Jordan: Ambassador Akmad A. Sakkam, the Philippine Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan revealed that a few days before the New Year to begin, the Amman Philippine Embassy is feeling a very beautiful and gratifying day after the Embassy received two Distinguished Citation Awards from Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. Ambassador Sakkam said the awards were given by Foreign Affairs Secretary Locsin for the exemplary performance of the Philippine Embassy in Jordan. One of these was the timely repatriation of the distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Jordan.

According to Ambassador Sakkam they were able to rescue the Maguindanao OFW identified as Noraisah Bendi Asi. He said the OFW went to work in Jordan when she was still at an under age of 16 to work as Household Help or domestic helper. But she began to experience her ordeal in the last 10 years where she transferred from one employer to another as her services were being bought as she kept on changing also her employer in the process.

The citation reads ―In recognition of the Embas-

sy‘s exemplary contribution, commitment and valuable assistance to the ongoing repatriation efforts of the Department in providing responsive timely and efficient repatriation efforts in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic.‖ Meanwhile, a total of additional 17 distressed OFWs had left already bound for the Philippines from Amman in time for the holidays to be with their loved ones and families.

Ambassador Sakkam said this was through the magnanimous gesture of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

He said all in all, a total of 68 OFWs in the last two months have been the beneficiaries of the goodwill of IOM with the joint effort with the Philippine Embassy in Amman (AMMAN PE).

On the other hand, another Special Distinguished Citation which is an Assistance -ToNationals (ATN) Award was given to Issa Mohammad Mofleh Ahmad, the locally hired Jordanian paralegal Officer, ATN ( Assistance to National) for his exemplary performance, selfless service and unwavering commitment to duties.

Ambassador Sakkam has considered 2020 as a banner year indeed to Amman PE.

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

signature song during the election campaign.

One of those politicians in Cagayan de Oro City was Councilor lawyer Alejandro ―Celing‖ Velez, a scion of one of the wealthiest original families of the City.

He sang the song like a balladeer, complete with gestures. He was never defeated in his bid for a City Council seat during the time of that iconic brilliant City Mayor Justiniano ―Teñing‖ R. Borja.

Celing had a pretty good baritone, though I think his older brother, CFI Judge Puro M. Velez, my classmate in the UP College of Law and my dorm mate in the South Dorm in Diliman Quezon City, had a better baritone since it skirts the fringes of a tenor.

Here is that song whose English translation is HOW LONELY IS THE HUT: Kamingaw sa payag Kadto atong gipuy-an Sa duruha ta ka gugma Wala na ang kahayag Nga mibanwag kanato Sa gabi-ing tanan Mag-unsa ako Kon wala na ikaw Unsay puy-an Sa payag nga biya-an mo naman Asa ko na ikaw pangita karon Kay wala nang pinangga ko Manamilit na lang (HAA)

World News

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

Biden receives first dose of coronavirus vaccine

By XINHUA NEWS AGENCY

W

ASHINGTON: US President-elect Joe Biden on Monday received the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine during a televised event in his home state of Delaware.

The 78-year-old former vice president was administered the Pfizer BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, which requires a second dose weeks apart to reach 98 percent efficacy. Biden's vaccination followed that of his wife Jill Biden earlier on the same day.

"What I want to say is we owe these folks an awful lot," Biden, donning a black mask, said after getting the shot at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware.

"The scientists and the people who put this together, the front line workers, the people who were the ones who actually did the clinical work, it's just amazing. I wish we had time to take you through the whole hospital to see how busy and incredible you all are. And we owe you big. We really do."

Biden, who is consid-

Photo taken in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, on Nov. 7, 2020, shows the live stream of US Democratic nominee Joe Biden delivering a speech in Wilmington, Delaware. (Xinhua photo) ered in the high-risk age category for Covid-19, got inoculated after top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci strongly recommended that he do so. Fauci has been named Biden's chief medical adviser when the presidentelect takes office in January.

It's not clear when the Bidens will receive their second doses.

"I'm looking forward

to the second shot. So is Jill," Biden said.

Jen Psaki, the spokeswoman for the Biden transition team, told reporters Friday that Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, would receive their vaccinations next week.

Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence, together with Surgeon General Jerome Adams, were

administered the vaccine Friday at an oncamera event.

The first dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, the result of USGerman collaboration, began to be injected to health care workers across the United States last week after getting emergency use authorization from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and have been delivered to 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

The FDA also gave green light to the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine on Friday.

Covid-19 cases and deaths spiked during the ongoing holiday season in the United States, with total infections nearing 18 million and cumulative deaths around 318,600 as of Monday afternoon. Xinhua

New COVID-19 strain prompts UK gov‟t. to tighten restrictions The UK government has introduced tough new measures for some areas of England in response to the fast spread of a new strain of the COVID-19 virus.

As of Sunday morning, the country‘s capital London as well as parts of southeastern England will enter a new Tier 4, with restrictions likened to the first nationwide lockdown earlier this year.

The new strain ―could increase the R [rate of infection] by 0.4 or more and is up to 70 percent more transmissible than the original disease,‖ Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, who warned that it was ―spreading very fast.‖ The UK‘s chief scientific officer Patrick Vallance said the new

strain first occurred in mid-September in London or Kent. He said scientists had detected 23 changes in the new variant, mainly in the way it binds to human cells – at ―an unusually large number‖ – and was responsible for ―a significant and substantial‖ increase in the number of cases in areas where it was circulating.

It now accounts for 62 percent of those who have tested positive for

the virus in London, while the number is above 45 percent in other regions put under new restrictions. ―There is no evidence at the moment to suggest the new variant causes more severe disease,‖ Vallance added. ―Nothing has been seen so far to suggest it alters the immune response and the vaccine response should be adequate for this virus,‖ he added.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he had ―a very heavy heart‖ when announcing a reversal of his existing plans to relax rules on household mixing over Christmas.

In the new Tier 4 areas, residents must stay at home, nonessential shops are to close, and people are being urged to work from home if they can, with travel to and from Tier 4 areas banned, meaning many Christmas plans are left in tatters.

In all other tiers, three households will only be allowed to mix on December 25 and not the five days the government had previously announced. Aden Jay Wood, CGTN

DHL Delivers First Batch of COVID-19 Vaccines to Singapore SINGAPORE: DHL, the leading global brand in the logistics industry today announced the successful delivery of the first batch of COVID-19

vaccines to Singapore.

The vaccines arrived on a cargo flight from Brussels, Belgium to Singapore.

Temperature trackers equipped with sophisticated GPS are

also packed within each thermal shipper box to provide full visibility throughout the shipment's entire journey.

Media Outreach

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Guest Foreign Opinion

Muslims don’t celebrate Christmas, but still commemorate Christ It’s the most wonderful time of the year, right?

Christmas has come. The Christmas trees, filled stockings, mistletoe and bright lights are spectacular. What’s not to like?

So how come Muhammad down the street is not soaking up the holiday joy? I don’t see his house decorated with lights, or a tree in his house.

Trust me, your Muslim neighbor isn’t a grinch. He or she just doesn’t celebrate Christmas, and here’s why.

As we know, Christmas is a religious affair celebrating the birth of Christ, whom Christians believe to be the son of God, and a part of God Himself. Unlike our Christian brethren, Muslims don’t ascribe to this belief. Muslims believe, as the Qur’an states, that “The Majesty of our Lord is exalted. He has taken neither wife nor son unto Himself.”

Muslims are also uncomfortable with the possible connections that Christmas may have with pagan traditions. Scottish anthropologist Sir James George Frazer writes, “The coincidences of the Christian with the heathen festivals are too close and too numerous to be accidental. They mark the compromise which the Church in the hour of its triumph was compelled to make with its vanquished yet still dangerous rivals.”

Muslims don’t necessarily believe that Jesus was born on Dec. 25, or even in winter for that matter.

The Gospels make no mention of the date of Jesus’ birth and early Christians were not at all interested in the birth of Jesus.

Luke 2:7-8 does tell us that Mary had to give birth to Jesus outside in the open because there was no guest room available to her. The average low temperature in Bethlehem in late December is 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and it rains an average of 11 days in December . Muslims find it hard to believe that a woman could give birth outdoors in near freezing weather conditions while it was likely raining.

So wait, you’re telling me Muhammad down the street hates Jesus?

Quite the contrary, actually. Muslims deeply adore and revere Jesus of Nazareth. In fact, we know him to be a chosen prophet of God. Jesus, peace be upon him, is mentioned more than 100 times in the Qur’an. One such mention is when an angel tells Mary that her child will be “honoured in this world and in the next, and of those who are granted nearness to God” (Q.3:46).

Even Prophet Muhammad expressed his love for Jesus, by saying, ““I am the nearest of all people to Jesus, in this world and the next. We are brothers to one another. Our religion is one.”

Jesus Christ is so central to Islam that most of the world’s Muslims anxiously await his return in the latter days. In fact, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who the World Christian Encyclopedia cites as the fastest growing Muslim sect in the world, believes that the prophecy of Christ’s second coming has already been fulfilled in the person of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.

So, although we Muslims may not actively participate in the Christmas festivities, we can use this time to reflect upon and emulate Christ’s noble character. We can give our brethren the miraculous gift of food in these desperate times, as Jesus did. We can raise the spirits of those in anguish and pain. Because who doesn’t want to be a patient child of God who desires humanity to unite in love and harmony?

As a Muslim, I can certainly commemorate and honor that.

The author, Frasat Ahmad is the imam at the Silver Spring, Md.-based national headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, USA.

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Muslim World

Guest Foreign Opinion

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

‘Camera installed to monitor Muslims' in Xinjiang is 'pure lie'

Iraqi PM warns of collapse of state without financial reforms

By SUN YE

By XINHUA NEWS AGENCY

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AGHDAD: Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi on Saturday warned of the collapse of the social and political systems in Iraq and overwhelming chaos if the country does not undergo financial reforms.

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gainst the accusations made by certain Western media outlets, officials and religious people from northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region say rumors like "forced labor" in Xinjiang and local government installed cameras "to supervise religious people" are purely "slander."

Elijan Anayit, spokesperson for the Information Office of the People's Government of Xinjiang, said at Monday's news briefing that the accusations of so-called "forced-labor" and "oppression" couldn't be further from the truth.

"The so-claimed 'persecution' is nonsense. People in Xinjiang are just like everyone else in China's other regions, enjoying the same rights and protected by the law," he said, adding 70 percent of the region's public expenditure is spent on improving the livelihood of local people, from employment and education to medical care.

He explained that by 2020, at least one person in every household in Xinjiang has a job. And for those who hunted for jobs outside of the region, they earned an average of 40,000 yuan annually by the latest count.

"It can be said that we are now living the life that previously only existed in our dreams," he added.

Obulhasan Tursunniyaz, one of the religious leaders at Jamah Mosque in Xinjiang's Hotan Prefecture, refuted the accusation that security cameras in mosques are used to monitor Muslims, explaining the equipment is used to fend off terrorists.

He cited a terrorist attack that occurred in Kashgar in 2014, where Juma Tahir, vice president of the Islamic Association of China and the imam of the Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar, was stabbed to death by three young male extremists. During the investigation, cameras helped police find the culprits.

"The cameras are used to protect religious people, and fend off terrorist acts. And we totally support that," he said. "Some people say the cameras are installed for other reasons. This is slandering and is trying to incite tension between Muslims and non-Muslims."

The religious leader added that in the past years, all religious activities have been conducted normally in the region and out of individuals' own volition. Even amid the pandemic, with tough COVID-19 preventive measures, activities have continued safely, he said.

Xu Guixiang, deputy general of the Publicity Department of Xinjiang, said that through the briefing, they hope to depict a real picture of Xinjiang, a region that has been free of terrorist attacks for four years, sustained a GDP growth of 7.2 percent, and lifted all in the region out of poverty by December. CGTN.

For Reliable Info, Read Philippine Muslim Today

Al-Kadhimi made his comments during an extraordinary session of the Iraqi cabinet to discuss the federal budget for the fiscal year 2021, which came after the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) decided to devaluate the national currency due to the economic crisis that resulted from the decline in oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic. ―The political crisis in Iraq is linked to three issues: power, money, and corruption. We are working to address the crisis from an economic standpoint and with a bold decision to overcome the obstacles of corruption and money,‖ al-Kadhimi media office

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi delivers a speech during the vote on the new government at the parliament headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq. (Reuters) said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, the CBI decided to reduce the value of the Iraqi dinar to be 1,450 dinars per one U.S. dollar in the central bank, instead of its previous price of 1,119 dinars per dollar.

The exchange rate of the dollar will reach

1,470 dinars in the local market, the statement said.

The CBI attributed the decision to the financial crisis that resulted from the decline in oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic, which led to a large deficit in the state budget, forcing the gov-

ernment to borrow money from banks to pay salaries and to cover other expenses, according to the statement.

In a separate statement, Iraqi Minister of Finance Ali Abdul-Amir Allawi said ―it has become clear that urgent reforms are needed in various economic fields, including the currency exchange rate.‖ ―Despite the difficulty of this decision, we are forced to take such a step to address a large part of the crisis, and to ensure the protection of the Iraqi economy by achieving a brave reform step,‖ Allawi added. XINHUA NEWS AGENCY

Malaysia to sign AstraZeneca vaccine deal on Monday KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will sign a deal on Monday to purchase the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine from British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.

Addressing media on Saturday, Malaysian Health Minister Adham Baba said the country reached an agreement

with AstraZeneca for the purchase of vaccines.

The vaccines are planned to be brought to the country in February next year and will be enough to vaccinate 20 percent of Malaysians, the minister said.

Last month, Malaysia announced that it had reached an agreement with Pfizer to purchase enough doses to vac-

cinate its 6.4 million citizens.

Last week, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said that the government is planning to buy more Covid-19 vaccines to immunize as many as 70 percent of the population. ―As for Malaysia, we have already got 30 percent. I have instructed Health Minister Da-

tuk Seri Adham Baba along with Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar [Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation] to negotiate and increase it from 30 percent-60 percent or 70 percent,‖ Yassin said.

The Southeast Asian country has reported 91,969 COVID-19 cases with 433 deaths so far. (ANADOLU)

U.S. return to Iran JCPOA is not a done deal With Joe Biden‘s inauguration on January 20, Washington‘s return to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, the Iran Nuclear Deal, is widely considered preordained. However, obstacles remain from Tehran‘s side as well as the American perspective.

With the incoming Biden administration destined to change the dynamic in the conflict between Tehran and Washington, Iran is making its moves, albeit, in more than one direction, it appears.

At the outset, the country has an apparent interest in escaping U.S. sanctions that have devastated the country‘s economy. Iran‘s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is cogni-

zant of it and has provided President Hassan Rouhani‘s government a mandate for negotiations.

Rouhani himself had previously stated and promised that Iran would again strictly adhere to its nuclear program‘s restrictions if Washington also fulfilled its obligations under the agreement. ―Within an hour,‖ Iran would re-join the deal, he said.

So far, so good.

However, within Iran, other forces have displayed a rather limited proclivity for a return to diplomacy. To Rouhani‘s dismay, these ultra-conservative hardliners have a majority in parliament.

At the beginning of December, they utilized

their majority to introduce a law requiring Rouhani‘s government to deliberately violate the nuclear deal‘s key provisions and even expel International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors from the country if the U.S. failed to cease its sanctions within one month.

Rouhani, who has consistently expressed his intention to seek a diplomatic solution to save the deal against the rigid forces in parliament, answered promptly: ―unnecessary and counterproductive,‖ he called the law, while also denying parliament the right to determine the country‘s nuclear policy.

Nonetheless, Iran‘s Guardian Council, also

a conservativedominated body, approved parliament‘s law with minor changes.

The decisive factor now is the Ayatollah Khamenei‘s perspective. The supreme leader has the final say on all state affairs and hence the right to veto the law.

Khamenei, who has long shown sympathy for the hardliners, said that if the lifting of the sanctions can be achieved in a ―correct, wise and dignified way,‖ it should be done.

He supported the government as long as it adhered to the nation‘s interests – a formulation with which Khamenei maintained the option to veto the law.

U.S. | B3

News

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

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BANGSAMORO | from Page A2

Bangsamoro parliament approves ₱75.6-B BARMM budget for 2021 Basman said the budget includes the opening of four new satellite offices in TawiTawi, Sulu, Basilan, and Lanao del Sur. ―These satellite offices will allow our Members of the Parliament to attend our plenary sessions and

committee meetings outside our esteemed halls,‖ added Basman.

Extension of BARMM 2020 Budget The Bangsamoro Parliament also approved a law extending the availability of

the 2020 Bangsamoro appropriations to December 31, 2021.

With the exclusion of Personnel Services, Parliament Bill No. 76 amends Section 47 of the general provisions of Bangsamoro Autonomy

Act No. 03, the Bangsamoro Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2020.

Section 47 states that, ―All appropriations authorized in this Act for Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses and Capital Outlay authorized

in this Act shall be available for release and disbursement for the purpose specified, and under the same general and special provisions applicable thereto, until December 31, 202.‖ Muslimedia.PH

PTFOMS | from Page A4

PTFoMS marks landmark conviction of Ampatuan massacre suspects The victims families and friends issued separate Manifestos assailing the misrepresentation made by unscrupulous groups and bewailed the subsequent erroneous backsliding by UNESCO which, they said, ran contrary to the mandate of the UN body to

pursue the ends of justice.

The flip-flop, they said, was arbitrary and biased and only caused more suffering as it prolonged the agony of the families of the victims who were expecting to be indemnified following the conviction.

PTFoMS conveyed these manifestos through diplomatic channels to UNESCO to rectify its glaring error.

Following the conviction, five suspects were captured this year and are now under going trial. Egco vowed that the Presidential Task Force

will not rest until all the remaining suspects are under custody.

The PTFoMs was created

by President Duterte in 2016 with the mandate to protect the life, liberty and security of all media workers in the country. Aside from working to pro-

vide a safe environment for journalists, PTFoMS is actively pushing for the enactment in Congress of the Media Workers Welfare Act (MWWA) to ensure that media workers‘ economic welfare are protected as well.

JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

tional Coordinator Arch. Ahmad E. Mama-o and DA officials and members of media were in attendance, too. Kadiwa GUARANTEES the CHEAPEST PRICE for basic commodities!!

The group is working together with various entities to

open facilities in Bangsamoro areas including Marawi City and Cotabato to cater to the needs of the Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) for them to benefit from the affordable and reduced prices products under DA program.

AHMT

TAGO | from Page A5

BFBCI and DA joined forces to serve businesses Recently, Secretary Abdullah "Dabs"Mama-o, Presidential Adviser on OFWs and Muslim Concern, and his wife Madame Luisa Espino Mamao lead the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony during the soft opening of the KADIWA NI ANI AT KITA 24/7 warehouse

center at Dona Juana Area, Barangay Holy Spirit, Commonwealth, Quezon City.

This is the pilot KADIWA Center operated under the MOA entered into by BFBCI and its partner GMBCFI(Greenhills Muslim Business Club Foundation,

Inc.) with Department of Agriculture (DA).

BFBCI President Al Raiz Datu Nasraili B. Conding and GMBCFI President Engr.

Nassif Malawani, together with their respective officers, also graced the occasion.

BFBCI Task Force Na-

U.S. | from Page B2

U.S. return to Iran JCPOA is not a done deal The pressure on Rouhani is hence increasing. And with the presidential elections on the horizon, the dynamic is destined to become even more complex.

Without Khamenei‘s veto and if further violations were to occur, Washington‘s return to the deal became increasingly inconceivable. As much

emphasis as Biden has put on diplomacy, he has been adamant on one core principle: sanctions will only end if Tehran returns to ―strictly adhering to the nuclear agreement.‖ The latter is all the more relevant since Biden‘s designated National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has attached Washington‘s return to the

deal to two conditions. First, Iran must once again fully comply with the provisions of the original agreement. Second, negotiations on further restrictions for Iran must follow.

According to Sullivan, these would aim at Iran‘s regional policy, i.e., its support for proxies, as well as Iran‘s missile

MILG | from Page A2

BARMM launches „Salamat Awards‟ program The passage of the BOL translated legally the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the final peace deal forged by the government with the MILF signed in 2014 after 17 years of peace negotiations.

Awards for LGUs At the Dec. 18 ceremonies here, MILG Minister Sinarimbo awarded some of the BARMM‘s 118 LGUs for their excellent performance this year.

Officials of 51 LGUs in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi

received plaques and cash incentives under the MILG‘s Local Government Functional Appraisal Award (LoGFA) and Lupon Tagapamayapa Incentive Award (LTIA).

Eight (8) barangays bagged the LTIA cash awards Php125,000.00 for the first place, Php100,000 for the second, and Php75,000.00 for the third placer.

In the fourth to sixth class category, Baranagy Kauran in Ampatuan, Maguindanao was declared as champion.

First and second places were

awarded, respectively, to Barangay Mao in Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao, Barangay Pindolonan in Buadiposo Bunting, Lanao del Sur. For the first to third class category, Barangay Rempes in Upi, Maguindanao, was rated first placer, with barangays Cebuano Group in Wao, Lanao del Sur and Tumahubong in Sumisip, Basilan landing in 2nd and 3rd slots.

BarangayTumbras in Midsayap, North Cotabato got Php125,000.000 under the

program.

However, Iran‘s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, as well as Rouhani, have already stated that Iran would not accept any additional stipulations.

With Tehran seemingly not inclined to accept the U.S.‘ demands at all cost, gaps that will have to be bridged if diplomacy was to prevail, remain. And as such, the leadership change in

Washington is by no means an automatic change in the conflict. CGTN *Thomas O. Falk is a London-based political analyst and commentator. He holds an MA in International Relations from the University of Birmingham and specializes in U.S. affairs. The article reflects the author’s views, and not necessarily those of CGTN.

special geographic area category, while Barangay. Limook in Lamitan City, Basilan also received the same prize under the city category.

The MILG also handed over Php20,000.00 cash incentives to each of 10 barangays in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and the city of Lamitan for being regional finalists.

The barangay awardees have been cited for the breakthroughs of their Lupon Tagapamayapa councils in settling disputes in their communities, Sinarimbo said.

Special Anti-Drug Abuse Council Awards were also given to LGUs that achieved

drug-cleared status of their drug-affected barangays and for maintaining a drug-free status of their unaffected barangays.

Forty nine (49) BARMM municipalities received the said award—25 awardees for sustaining drug cleared status, and 24 others for maintaining a drug free status in unaffected barangays.

MILG also cited civil society organizations involved in interventions to drug-affected areas, such as the Council of Sumisip Youth Leader, Kadtabangan Foundation for Peace and Development Advocates Inc. and Balay Mindanaw. AGM

For Quality Journalism, Read Philippine Muslim Today

Tourism

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Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

The Chinese Pier of Tawi-Tawi

Palapa: A Maranao Condiment "Bangsamoro Halal Dish"

By JOHNNY R. LEE, Ph.D

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n Tawi-Tawi, the Chinese are thought to be „the engine that generates‟ the wealth and continuing progress that transform the one‟s sleepy town of Bongao into a vibrant and center of trade and industry in the province.

It is a common notion for the natives that a place or community will remain ‗backward‘ unless there is a ‗Chinese family‘ that lives and dwells in such a place. The notion seems to be true! Looking at the 11 municipalities in the province, one is almost sure that whenever there are ‗Chinese communes‘ found - that place can grow into a ‗commercial hub‘ where there are a lot of business opportunities arising from the entrepreneurial influence brought by them.

These notions are supported by the existing communities, besides Bongao, are the following municipalities: 1.

Municipality of Sitangkai; 2. Tabawan of South Ubian 3. Mapun 4. Municipality of SapaSapa.

Sitangkai is now the number one exporter of dried seaweeds, marine products and other bigtime enterprises like dry goods and grocery products. Same true with other above-named municipalities with Chinese families at the center of business activities.

Back to Bongao, there is the so-called Chinese Pier that stretches almost two kilometers from the highland point of former Department of Education, Culture and Sports Building Complex into the irregular contour of Aguada Bay that was once a line-up with small makeshift houses

THE AGUADA BAY—THE LEADING ENTRY TO THE CHINESE PIER.

MEDIUM-SIZED MOTORBOAT DOCKING AT CHINESE PIER.

HE PROVINCIAL CAPITOL BUILDING (AT THE TOP OF HILL) AS SEEN FROM THE CHINESE PIER. interconnected by wooden footbridges but now the commercial center consists of huge

concrete buildings that host various type of establishment ranging from retail and whole-

sale of dry goods and foodstuffs.

A huge ‗bodegas‘ can also be found that deals in trading marine products and construction materials.

What is very impressive is the ease of sea transports that could dock directly and anytime right in the front of the business centers where a modest paved one-way road serves as sea-port (pier) and at the same time as entry for vehicles and pedestrians. It is estimated that hundreds of motor launches (kumpits) and small boats dock daily to bring in goods and carry out merchandising articles to other island municipalities.

Business activities never sleep in the area. It‘s all busy day in and day out.

And again, majority owners of businesses are of Chinese descents. Indeed, the Chinese really can bring out the best in a community. JOHNNY R. LEE

DOT backs temporary ban on UK travellers

BY JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA MANILA – The DeTourism Secretary partment of Tourism Bernadette Romulo(DOT) has thrown its Puyat said ensuring "unequivocal support" public health and safety to President Rodrigo takes precedence, even Duterte's decision to as the Inter-Agency temporarily ban all Task Force for the Manflights from the United agement of Emerging Kingdom over reports of Infectious Diseases a new coronavirus (IATF-MEID) carefully strain in the Western reviews the restriction state. on the entry of foreign The temporary travel nationals into the counban on all flights from try. the UK will begin on READ: PH susDec. 24 until Dec. 31, pends flights from UK 2020.

Dec. 24-31

"With this temporary suspension, the DOT empathizes with the affected families who would not be able to spend the holidays with their loved ones from the UK," the DOT said in a statement on Wednesday.

Under IATF-MEID Resolution No. 90, all passengers who travelled to the UK within the past two weeks immediately preceding arrival in the Philip-

pines, including those merely in transit, are also temporarily restricted from entering the country.

Reports showed that the coronavirus variant first identified in the UK was spreading 70 percent faster than others.

However, experts said existing vaccines will be effective in fighting off infection from new strains of coronavirus.

PNA

WITH MARIA FHEBIE ORTIL

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f our readers can recall at the start of these series of cooked halal dishes, we will tackle all the rare and sumptuous main courses, dishes, and delicacies common to all provinces of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

We started our food series with the sumptuous and common dishes and delicacies of the Tausug of Sulu. Hence, after discussing many of the delicious foods of Sulu, we are going to start now the common and popular dishes, delicacies, as well as condiments of the Maranao from Lanao del Sur. To begin with the kitchen utensils, we will start now with the Palapa, which is a sweet and spicy Maranao condiment consisting of thinly chopped white scallions (sakurab); pounded ginger (luya), turmeric (luyang dilaw ), labuyo chili, and toasted grated coconut (niog).

And so what is Sakurab?

It is a vegetable similar to scallions and is a traditional food seasoning in the Philippines. It is particularly commonly used in the cuisine of the Maranao people. Hence, Sakurab is the main ingredient of the widespread Maranao condiment palapa, where it is mixed with spices, salt and ginger. It can be eaten in its raw form as a side dish.

For emphasis, Palapa really originated from the Maranao people of Lanao del Sur. The ingredients are mixed together and cooked briefly or cooked until somewhat dry. It is immediately stored in sealed jars (garapon) after cooking.

It can be used as an ingredient in certain dishes (most notably in piaparan) or used as a condiment after briefly sautéing (usually with a spoonful of condensed milk). Thus, Palapa can also be eaten fresh as salad dressing.

Palapa is an important cultural symbol of the Maranao people and is an ubiquitous accompaniment at every meal.

Palapa Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes Cook Time 20 minutes Cleaning Time 1 hour 30 minutes Total Time 2 hours Ingredients 4 bundles about 2 kg Sakurab, cleaned and dried 4 thumb-sized ginger sliced 4 tbsp birds eye chili depending on the level of spice Salt 1 cup cooking oil you can keep adding up to 1.5 cups 1/2 tbsp turmeric powder 1-2 bulbs garlic chopped Procedures In a food processor, add sliced sakurab, ginger and chilis. You may do this in batches if you are making a huge batch. Just keep the processed mixture in a container and mix everything together later on.

When everything is mixed and done, add cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant.

PALAPA | B5

Save the Earth Environmental Sustainability in Islam

Vol. I, No. 28 | December 25-31, 2020 (Jumad ‘ul Awwal 10-16, 1442)

B5

Wildlife conservation must continue even with pandemic: Cimatu

First of 2 Parts

By Salman Zafar | EcoMENA

By PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY

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ANILA: Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu said the sighting of a nesting sea turtle in Zambales province is a testimony that the preservation of wildlife in the country must continue even amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

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slamic beliefs, traditions and values provide an effective and comprehensive solution to the current environmental challenges faced by the human race. Islam has a rich tradition of highlighting the importance of environmental protection and conservation of natural resources. According to Islamic law, the basic elements of nature – land, water, fire, forest, and light – belong to all living things, not just human beings.

The Holy Qur‘an and Sunnah are a guiding light to promote sustainable development in Islamic countries as well as around the world. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta‘ala) commands human beings to avoid doing mischief and wasting resources as these acts cause degradation of the environment. The privilege to exploit natural resources was given to the mankind on a guardianship basis, which implies the right to use another person‘s property on the promise that it will not be damaged or destroyed.

The Holy Qur‟an and Environment The Holy Qur‘an has a number of specific references to ecology and also contains some important principles for environmental conservation. The first principle which guides Islamic teaching on environmental sustainability is the concept of trusteeship. Being a khalifa (or guardian), a man should take all necessary steps to ensure that the entrusted property is passed on to the next generation in as pure a form as possible. According to Islam each man is the custodian of nature, and must live with harmony with other creatures. It is the duty of all Muslims to respect, nurture and care for the environment.

Corruption of all kinds, including environmental corruption, which includes industrial pollution, environmental damage, and reckless exploitation and mismanagement of natural resources are disliked by Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta‘ala).

Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta‘ala) says in the Holy Qur‘an: “And Allah loveth not those who do mischief” (Surat Al Ma‟eda, verse 64) “And do no mischief on the earth after it has been set in order: that will be best for you, if ye have Faith” (Surat Al A‟raf, „the Heights‟, verse 85) Eat and drink: But waste not by excess, for Allah loveth not the wasters (Surat Al-A‟raf 7: 21).

“And do good as Allah has been good to you.

And do not seek to cause corruption in the earth.

Allah does not love the corrupters”, (Surat Al Qasas 28:77) “Children of Adam, dress well whenever you are at worship, and eat and drink (as we have permitted) but do not be extravagant: God does not like extravagant people.” (Surat Al-A‟raf 7:31) According to the Holy Qur‘an, environmental conservation is a religious duty as well as social obligation, and not an optional matter. The exploitation of a particular natural resource is directly related to accountability and maintenance of the resource.

(TO BE CONTINUED)

―Even if we are faced with a difficult situation brought about by the threats of the disease, we must continue to strive to protect and preserve our endangered pawikan (turtle),‖ Cimatu said in a news release on Tuesday.

He added that the sighting ―proves that our efforts are not in vain‖.

Cimatu said this incident was ―enough to motivate the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to carry on with its task of protecting the environment during these uncertain times‖.

The DENR‘s Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Olongapo City has received a report that sea turtle laying eggs were spotted at Aplaya Caarusipan Beach Resort in San Antonio town on Nov. 28.

The CENRO immedi-

ately sent a team to conduct monitoring and inspection at the site.

Upon inspection, the team identified the sea turtle as an olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) classified as an endangered species under DENR Administrative Order 2019-09 or the Updated National List of Threatened Philippine Fauna and their Categories.

Olongapo City‘s

CENR Officer Roger Encarnacion said the nesting site, which is just in front of the beach resort, was ―safe from possible destruction from tide.‖ ―Thankfully, we do not need to relocate the nest to a safer place.

But as a precautionary measure, we placed multiple fences made from nets to protect the eggs from possible predators,‖ Encarnacion

said.

Encarnacion said the team will regularly monitor the turtle eggs to protect them from poachers and illegal wildlife traders.

The CENRO will also conduct weekly information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign such as seminars for the concerned local government unit staff and resort employees. (PR)

How much plastic are you eating?

Plastic production surged in the last 50 years, and we could be ingesting the equivalent of a credit card of plastic a week.

What‟s for dinner?

Lego sushi, credit card burgers, or a well-done piece of PVC pipe?

These examples may sound extreme, but can easily represent over time the cumulative amount of microscopic pieces of plastic people

consume every day.

People could be ingesting the equivalent of a credit card of plastic a week, a 2019 study by WWF International concluded, mainly in plasticinfused drinking water but also via food like

shellfish, which tends to be eaten whole so the plastic in their digestive systems is also consumed.

Using the findings, Reuters news agency reported we ingest the weight of a 4×2 Lego

brick in plastic in a month. In a year, that amounts to the plastic in a firefighter‘s helmet.

At this rate of consumption, in a decade, we could be eating 2.5kg (5.5 lb) in plastic, the equivalent of over two sizeable pieces of plastic pipe.

And over a lifetime, we consume about 20kg (44 lb) of microplastic.

AlJazeera

PALAPA | from Page B4

Palapa: A Maranao Condiment Add the sakurab mixture and turmeric powder (turmeric powder is optional but it adds a nice color). Let this cook while stirring from time to time to avoid the mixture from sticking to the pan. It may take up to 15-20 minutes (or until it changes color or cooked).

This time, you can add salt and also additional oil (if desired).

Let the palapa cool completely before moving or placing it in a dry container.

Recipe Notes: According to the The Not So Creative Cook, Palapa can be kept at room temperature up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator to last longer.

This recipe can be halved or quartered. It is always advisable to

make huge batches when given the chance we always use this in our dishes.

The measurements here are just guide. If

you don‘t have sakurab, you can use the white part of spring onion. *Best served during merienda or snacks.

2021 New Year Message of Datu Yusoph B. Mama Chairman Muslimedia.PH, Inc. (Publisher of Philippine Muslim Today) ‎ ‫السالم عليكن ورحمة هللا وبركاته‬ As-Salamu‎‘Alaikum‎wa‎Rahmatullahi‎wa‎Barakatuhu.

I

n behalf of the "Philippine Muslim Today" and in the spirit of the same tradition of international rapport from other Muslim leaders around the world, both traditional and even religious, we respectfully enjoin our fellow Muslims in the Philippines and in the Bangsamoro region, especially its leaders, to come together in solidarity and fellowship with our nonMuslim and Christian friends who are celebrating their holiday season and the upcoming 2021 New Year (of the Gregorian calendar). It is indeed fair to extend greetings and felicitations to our non-Muslim and Christian friends this season as they too joyfully say "Happy Eid'l Fitr" to us, at the conclusion of our fasting season, as their Muslim friends. In the Quran, it is written, "when greeted with a greeting, you shall respond with better greeting or at least an equal one. Surely Allah takes account of all things." (Holy Quran 8:46) While we affirm the universal principle in respecting each other's cultural traditions, as fellow human beings, may we also find the will and courage to unite further in the face of our unique circumstances and challenges in this time period. May the difficulties and challenges of the year that was (2020) serve as a signal for us to awaken that human cooperation and unity, not selfish dissensions and intolerant scheming, is what we need today to effectively martial our capabilities and means to fight the common enemy that is global hunger, illiteracy, poverty, and diseases as we choose to uphold genuine human freedom and dignity in our respective communities.

Let us, therefore, celebrate our common human heritage by coming together this 2021 and champion the greater well-being of the human race regardless of faith, belief, and culture.

May the Almighty Allah (SWT) bless and protect the Filipino Muslims and our leaders in the Bangsamoro as we join our non-Muslim brethren welcome a more hopeful, peaceful, and prosperous New Year.

Happy New Year and salaam (peace) to all Filipinos!!!

DATU YUSOPH B. MAMA Masirikampo sa Marawi (Traditional Royal Ruler of Marawi)