Philippine Muslim Today

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Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

BARMM in Focus

Bangsamoro READi continues Covid-19 relief opns for pandemic heavily affected residents

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OTABATO CITY: The Bangsamoro READi (Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence) of the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG) conducted this week a series of food relief operation to some barangays in Cotabato City and to a madrasah in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

READi | A2

Relatives suspect ‘extremists’ hand in HPG officer’s killing

By ALI G. MACABALANG

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OTABATO CITY – The assassins of a highway patrol group (HPG) officer could be among remnants of extremist elements in Lanao region, grieving relatives revealed on Wednesday as they refuted initial news reports that rido or clannish feud was likely the motive behind the tragic incident.

“We are publicly announcing that we have no rido and

none of us have taken the life of any person,” lawyer Udtog Tago, elder brother of slain Police Major Omar Tago, averred in a bold post on Facebook amid news reports that attributed the ‘brutal’ killing to possible clannish vendetta.

Lawyer Tago, serving as regular provincial election officer in Maguindanao for

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years, pointed out that “the way” his brother “was killed brutally, mercilessly, with multiple bullets manifest (ed) anger and a character of an extremist so angry with an officer of the PNP/AFP.” The slain officer was attending the fourth day wake of a dead relative in barangay Pagalungan, Sultan Dumalundong

A6 NATIONAL

Philippine Coast Guard POPCOM: Adolescent allows Muslim female pregnancies in PHL personnel to Wear Hijab drop by 13% in 2020 A new dress policy has been approved by the Philippine Coast Guard allowing the use of headscarves in uniform as it makes a bid for more Muslim women to join the service.

The number of births among adolescent mothers in the Philippines in 2020 went down by 23,855 — a 13% drop which set a 17-year record for the sharpest decrease in births in women under 20 years of age...

Slain Police Major Omar Tago.

in Lanao del Sur alongside two companions on Monday, January 31, when five youngsters among the crowd pulled out guns and fired at least five bullets at him, the lawyer sibling told the Philippine Muslim Today news by phone on Wednesday.

The unidentified assailants did the same to Tago’s com-

A6 WORLD

WHO chief warns of 'very worrying increase' in Covid-19 deaths There is a “very worrying increase” in Covid-19 deaths around the world and preventing transmission of the virus is still paramount, the head of the World Health Organization said recently..

panions: Kanor Rascal, who was killed on the spot and; Adam Diringin, who sustained injuries and was fighting for life under medical treatment, reports said.

The attackers used caliber .45 pistols as indicated in several empty shells scattered at the scene, reports said.

RELATIVES | A5

A8 THE RANAO STAR

Gov. Dimaporo assures WestMinCom of full support vs terrorism, lawlessness Governor Imelda Quibranza Dimaporo has given her assurance that Lanao del Norte is fully supportive of the government’s campaign against terrorism and lawlessness.

For latest update, visit: www.philmuslim.today. For Press Release, email to: chiefeditor@philmuslim.today

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News

Bangsamoro READi... from Page A1

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OTABATO CITY: The Bangsamoro READi (Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence) of the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG) conducted this week a series of food relief operation to some barangays in Cotabato City and to a madrasah in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

MILG Minister Naguib Sinarimbo on Friday said the Bangsamoro READi continues with the relief distribution in response to the barangay officials’ requests for food assistance to support their residents who are heavily affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Among the beneficiaries were residents of Barangays Rosary Heights 7, Kalangan 1, and Rosary Heights 11, and students and teachers from Madrasah Katuli Al-Islamiya in Brgy. Katuli, Sultan Kudarat.

On January 24, Brgy. Captain Mohammad Syed Azzarouk Sema personally received over 3,000 food packs for his residents in Brgy. RH-7.

AYUDA READi: Workers from the Bangsamoro Rapid Action on Disaster Incidence (READi) under the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG) distribute thousands of food packs to the different barangays in Cotabato City and in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. The recipients are mostly those who were heavily affected by the on-going pandemic. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Each pack contained 10 kilos of rice, canned goods, and coffee. Sema said they will conduct a house-to-house distribution to avoid over-crowding.

The following day, Kalanganan 1 Brgy. Captain Norhasim Ayunan Pasawiran also received over 2,000 packs of similar aid for his residents.

Furthermore, on January 26, over 400 food packs were turned over to RH-11 Brgy. Kagawad Rodela Formento.

“Ako po ay nagpapasalamat kay Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim ng BARMM government sa pagbibigay niya po ng ayuda dito sa aming lugar. Para po ito sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan dito. Maraming maraming salamat po,” Formento said.

Meanwhile, over 600 students and teachers from Madrasah Katuli Al-Islamiya in Brgy. Katuli, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao also benefited from Bangsamoro READi’s relief operation.

Ustadz Tahir Padasan, who manages the madrasah, was emotional when he said: “Nata-touch po ako dahil first time na mangyari sa amin na mabigyan (ng ayuda) ang madrasah namin. Maraming maraming salamat sa BARMM government.”

JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

Retirement of 3 execs won't hamper poll preps: Comelec

By PMT Desk News

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ANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday assured that its preparations for the May polls will not be hampered by the retirement of three senior officials.

“Remember that when running the elections, you're talking about setting in motion preparation that was put in place while there were six of them. Now, we are at the stage where we are implementing these processes. A lot has gone from level of policy to level of operations. That's what we are doing now,” he said in a virtual press briefing.

Meanwhile, Muslim lawyer Mehol K. Sadain commented that, “Contrary to what a lawyer earlier said in an interview, the COMELEC will not be paralyzed by the retirement of 3 members of the Commission.”

“It has happened before and will continue to happen because that is what the Constitution provides,” Sadain added.

He said the 4 remaining members still constitute a quorum to transact business for the Banc.

“Then they will just elect an OIC Chair, while the two Divisions will have two permanent members, with one tem-

porary member each coming from the other Division,” Sadain stressed.

Jimenez also expressed confidence that the remaining officials -acting chair Socorro Inting and Commissioners Marlon Casquejo, Aimee Ferolino, and Rey Bulay -will be able to cope with challenges.

“They have to have a quorum at all times. Because if a matter is elevated to them, they're going to have a quorum to get things done. That's the challenge. But in terms of getting things going, there is no problem,” he added.

Jimenez added that the poll body will not issue an appeal for the immediate appointment of new commissioners.

“We trust that the executive is aware of the timelines we are dealing with, and the demands on the new appointees when they do come. We will leave it to the discretion of the appointing authority,” he added.

Asked if they were able to receive information regarding possible appoint-

COTABATO CITY: The Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) and the Philippine National Police - Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PNP PRO BAR) signed on Tuesday, Feb. 1, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) program here in this city.

MTIT Minister Abuamri Taddik on Thursday said the signing of MOU with the PNP is in order to enhance security for tourists and tourist destinations in the region. Thus TOPCOP, Taddik added will also en-

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PNA Photo: Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez (Screengrab from Comelec virtual presser) ments, the Comelec spokesperson said, “We never do. Information like that may come to individual commissioners but nothing actionable or official."

On Monday, Malacañang said President Rodrigo Roa Duterte already has a shortlist of possible appointees to replace the three retired officials -Chairperson Sheriff Abas and Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Antonio Kho Jr. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, also the acting presidential spokesperson, reiterated that Duterte understands the importance of appointing

successors of Abas, Guanzon, and Kho "as soon as possible."

Courtesy resignation Meanwhile, Jimenez added that he is filing his resignation as spokesperson of the poll body to give Inting the opportunity to choose whoever she wants to designate to the position.

“I do it every time there is a change in chairmanship whether it's’ actual chairmanship or acting chairman, I offer my resignation as spokesperson,” he said.

Jimenez, however, said he will accept the post if he will be picked again. (With PNA)

BARMM tourism ministry signs MOU for tourist cops with PNP regional police

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Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said these preparations have long been in place and have already been tackled in the past months.

MOU For TOPCOP: MTIT Minister Abuamri Taddik and PROBAR Regional Director Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the implementation of Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP). CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

sure the special and proper handling of tourist-related security and safety issues.

TOPCOP is a national program of the PNP in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), which aims to strengthen both agencies’ relationship in providing safe and secure environment for tourists, and ensuring the availability of tourist police in tourist destinations nationwide including the BARMM. Minister Taddik explained that the MOU will further intensify already existing collaboration and coordination with law enforcers in securing tourists and bringing peace in the region.

“We need to work hand in hand to create a new impression to our place to entice tourists both local and foreign,” Taddik added.

Meanwhile, PRO-BAR Regional Director Police Brigadier General Eden Ugale said that “the PRO BAR acknowledged the potential of BARMM being home to a diverse and colorful culture that has flourished and preserved for hundreds of years.”

“Through this synergy of initiatives and efforts, we will send a strong message that we are serious about thoroughly creating our region as a safe destination for everyone,” Ugale added.

Also present on Tuesday’s event were MTIT Deputy Minister lawyer Sukarno Abas, MTIT Director General Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo, PRO BAR Deputy Regional Director PCol. Jefrey Fernandez, and TOPCOP Focal PCol. Ganaban C. Ali. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

News

Philippine Coast Guard allows Muslim female personnel to Wear Hijab

By PMT DESK STAFF

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ANILA – A new dress policy has been approved by the Philippine Coast Guard allowing the use of headscarves in uniform as it makes a bid for more Muslim women to join the service.

The Philippine Coast Guard announced this on “The Philippine Coast Guard has approved the inclusion of hijab in the uniform of female Muslim Coast Guard personnel,” the force said in a statement, adding that the policy has been effective since last week.

“The Muslim community in the PCG conveyed their sincere gratitude,” it said. “Members of the said community hope that the inclusion of hijab in the official PCG uniform will encourage more Muslim women to join the Coast Guard workforce.”

The service’s imam, Capt. Alicman S. Borowa, had proposed the inclusion of the hijab in the force’s uniform last year, arguing it would help foster inclusivity.

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos welcomed the development.

“GOOD NEWS! The Philippine Coast Guard

released a statement allowing Muslim women under their office to wear their hijab as part of the official uniform,” the commission said in a social media post on Thursday.

The PCG is following in the footsteps of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine

Thursday.

Muslims make up about 6 percent of the country’s 110 million citizens.

The PCG currently has 1,850 Muslim personnel, 200 of whom are women.

National Police, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, which have already allowed the use of headscarves as part of the official uniform for their Muslim personnel.

In 2017, security forces deployed hijab-clad women soldiers, or “hijab

troopers,” in Marawi, to provide vital support to communities traumatized by the siege of the city — a months-long armed conflict in northwestcentral Mindanao between Philippine security forces and militants affiliated with Daesh (ISIL or ISIS). (AGENCY)

8 Sulu barangays certified ‘free of ASG influence’ COTABATO CITY – Eight villages in Sulu have been officially declared “free of influence” by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), an outlawed band long dreaded for lifetaking extremism exemplified in kidnapping, bombing and other forms notoriety.

Photo shows Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan Sr. signing an official document declaring eight villages in four component towns “free of influence” by the dreaded Abu Sayyaf Group. (Supplied photo) Sulu Governor Sakur Tan Sr., after thorough assessments collaborated by the state security sector, made the formal declaration in a symbolic ceremony witnessed by top military officials at the governor’s office last January 19, Sonny Y. Abing, provincial information officer said in a social media post.

Covered under the declaration were barangays Timpuuk, Igasam, Kabbun Takas, Kan Ague and Liang, all of Patikul town; Masjid Punjungan in Kalingalan Caluang; Tayungan in Panamao; and Bagsak in Talipao, Abing’s post showed.

The post was coupled with photos showing Brig.

Gen Antonio Bautista Jr., Army’s 11th Infantry Division

deputy head, as well as Colonels Jose Emmanuel Mariano, Gregorio Nieveras and Christopher Tampus, and Cpt. Joshua Barrio witnessing the governor’s ceremonial signing.

Gov. Tan’s certification followed year-long clearing operations by the police and military with validation by the Ministry of the Interior and Local Governor (MILG) of the Bangsamoro autonomous government, Abing’s post said.

The MILG, one of the regional government’s frontline agencies actively involved in carrying out development efforts in Sulu, has expressed elation over the “end” of ASG threats in the eight villages and four mother towns.

“It’s good news, indicating greater leeway for public instrumentalities including the Bangsamoro government to carry out more life-changing initiatives in Sulu,” MILG Minister Naguib Sinarimbo was quoted as telling reporters.

The ASG, espousing the Wahhabi extreme ideology, has been posing threats in Sulu and parts of Sulu for some four decades now, gaining notoriety in the global security map, according to Wikipedia.

Since its inception in 1989, the group has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortion, among others, the online narrative said.

It was founded by Abdurajak Abubakar Janjalani, and led after his death in 1998 by younger brother Khadaffy until the latter’s death in 2006. On July 23, 2014, Isnilon Hapilon, one of the group’s leaders, pledged loyalty to Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, the leader of the Islamic State. Hapilon reportedly died in the bloody 2017 Marawi siege.

Gov. Tan has ostensibly been focused on administering focal development efforts in his province, a component of the Bangsamoro autonomous region, amid the lack of political rivals in his reelection bid as well as those of his children in vice gubernatorial congressional and mayoral posts. ALI G. MACABALANG

Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

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10 loose firearms surrendered to the government forces in Tawi-Tawi SITANGKAI, Tawi-Tawi: At least 10 loose firearms were surrendered by the residents of Sitangkai, Tawi -Tawi and these are composed of four high-powered and six low-powered firearms in Barangays Poblacion, Panglima Alari, and Datu Baguinda Puti of the aforesaid municipality.

Major Andrew Linao, spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) in a statement sent to The Philippine Muslim Today said through the combined efforts of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 12, Sitangkai Municipal Police Station, and Maritime Police, the campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms were successfully done last week.

Major Linao identified those residents who voluntarily surren their loose firearms as Amil Sarahadil Abbas, 39 years old; Morgan Jawlah Lukoh, 74 years; and Polding Awbaw Polal, 28 years old, all residents of Ponduhan Suwangpukol Lappasan, Barangay Panglima Alari; Hji. Ismael Imran Mauh, 73 years old of Brgy Poblacion; and Ismael Ibrahim, 47 years old of Ponduhan Sapa-Sapa Asibih, Barangay Datu Baguinda Putih.

They handed over one Grenade Launcher with three rounds of live ammunition; one M16 baby Armalite rifle with six long magazines, seven short magazines, and 48 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition; one Garand rifle with 36 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition; one Carbine rifle with one magazine and 28 rounds of live ammunition; and six cal. 45 pistols.

According to Brig. Gen. Romeo Racadio, commander of Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi, this accomplishment is a result of the series of dialogues and security forums by the joint elements of 212MC, MBLT12, and PNP Sitangkai with community council leaders.

“We continuously conduct wide and joint information disseminations thru dialogues and security forums with regards to the campaign of R.A 10591 and the implementation of COMELEC Gun Ban in connection with the upcoming National and Local Elections 2022,” Brig. Gen. Racadio said.

The surrendered loose firearms and ammunition are placed under the custody of 212th Marine Company at H212MC Barangay Poblacion, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi for safekeeping prior to formal turnover to higher headquarters.

“I commend the efforts of our troops and our partners to keep the peace and order in the communities. Rest assured that we will continue to intensify our security operations in preparation for the election,” WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

3 Communist Terrorist Group members yield in Sultan Kudarat Province SULTAN KUDARAT PROVINCE: At least three members of the communist terrorist group (CTGs) have surrendered to the military in Sultan Kudarat province last Wednesday.

Major Andrew Linao, spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said the three CTGs surrendered to the soldiers at Army headquarters of the 37th Infantry Battalion, Barangay Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.

“Based on the report from the ground, the surrendered personalities are former members of the Hqs Company, West Daguma Front, Sub-regional Committee Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region,” said Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., WestMinCom commander.

Surrendered personalities handed over one 5.56mm M16 rifle, one 7.62mm M14 rifle, and one M67 Fragmentation Hand Grenade. They underwent medical check-ups and custodial debriefing facilitated by the 37th Infantry Battalion.

According to Joint Task Force Central Commander, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the successful surrender of the three CTG members was a result of the combined efforts of the 37IB and the intelligence units. “This is a result of our continuous campaign against terrorism here in central Mindanao,” Maj. Gen. Uy said.

The surrendered personalities revealed that their former comrade convinced them to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law. Their identities are not disclosed for their safety and protection.

From January 1 to date, a total of seven CTG members have already been neutralized, of whom six surrendered and one was killed during an encounter.

“Congratulations to the troops of Joint Task Force Central for the splendid job. It is but more fulfilling to win this fight against terrorism without single bloodshed, “said Lt. Gen. Rosario Jr. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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opinion

Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

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LISTENING TO THE MESSAGE OF THE QUR’AN

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Front page of PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY previous issue.

T

he first verses revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) were “Iqra’ Bismi Rabbikalladhii khalaq”, followed by “Khalaqa insaana min ‘alaq!” In English, “Read, in the Name of thy Lord, who created; Created man from a clot of blood!” [Surah 96, Verses 1-2] From the beginning, ALLAH advances several important points: First, this revelation is meant to be read. Second, ALLAH, as the Creator, is the Source of this revelation. Third, this revelation contains messages that can only come from an All -Knowing God, as can be seen from its reference to a clot of blood as the beginning of a fetus — something that is not known to the people of those days.

The first point indicates that if the Qur’an is meant to be read, and is considered as a “Reading”, then man as recipient of its message, must LISTEN to it. “Listening”, after all, is a consequence of “reading”. The Noble Qur’an confirms this by saying: “When the Qur’an is read, LISTEN to it with attention, so that you may receive mercy.” [Surah 7, Verse 204] The verse, therefore, makes it imperative for one who hears a Qur’an recitation, to “listen” and pay attention to the reading, because this is a way of receiving Mercy from ALLAH. It is said that even if one does not understand Arabic, listening to the recitation of the Qur’an is beneficial to a person. Ibn Taymiyyah said, “By means of this listening, ALLAH guides His slaves and sets straight their affairs in this world and the Hereafter.”

The Qur’an also informs us of a group of Jinns (anglicized as Genie) who listened to a Qur’an recitation: “Behold, We turned towards thee a company of Jinns listening to the Qur’an.

When they stood in the presence thereof, they said, ‘LISTEN in silence’. When the reading was finished, they returned to their people to warn them. They said, ‘O our people, we have heard a Book revealed after Moses, confirming what came before it. It guides to the Truth and to the Straight Path. O our people,

CARTOON OF THE WEEK

hearken to the one who invites you to ALLAH, and believe in Him. He will forgive your faults and deliver you from a grievous chastisement.’” [Surah 46, Verses 29-31] The words of Ibn Taymiyyan and the above-quoted verses tell us that the Mercy we receive from listening to the Qur’an is that of forgiveness and guidance. The Straight Way we ask to be shown in Surah 1, Verse 6: “Ihdina s-Siraatal Mustaqiim,” is given to us by the Qur’an, if we only listen to it. Thus, the Qur’an says in Surah 2, Verse 2: “This is the Book. In it is Guidance sure to those who reverence ALLAH.” The Qur’an in Surah 73, Verse 4, also provides the method for effective listening, by emphasizing how it should be read, thus: “… (A)nd recite the Qur’an in slow, measured rhythmic tone,” which in Arabic is “wa rattili l-Qur’ana tartiilaa.” The Qur’an is usually chanted when it is recited, and the recitation of the words are measured in accordance with marks that indicate where to prolong the recitation.

All these point to the highest regard Muslims accord the Noble Qur’an as the Words of ALLAH, and therefore, entitled to utmost respect and reverence. It is in this context that Muslims get offended or angry when the Qur’an is disrespected or desecrated. A believer’s bond with ALLAH is characterized by his holding on to His Words as revealed in the Qur’an, and by respecting the Qur’an which is the repository of these words on earth.

Along this line, many Muslims go to the extent of memorizing the Qur’an, word for word, to keep it in themselves.

They are called Huffaz from the singular Hafiz, and they take their name from the words in the Qur’an which says: “Innaa lahuu la-Hafizuun,” which means “And we will assuredly guard it,” [Surah 15, Verse 9].

Being a hafiz, therefore, is comparable to taking part in guarding the Qur’an, because truly, the best way to guard a message is by preserving it in one’s memory.

(A REPRINT)

Opinion

My tribute to a great friend, public servant - Last Part

Punchline With Ali G. Macabalang

H

e said this theory is interpreted in a Hadith, which says that when the heart is contaminated by greed and hatred, the beholder destroys himself, his household, other people around him, and later the society.

God revealed Suratul Asr (103rd chapter in the Qur’an):“By Al-’Asr (the time). Verily, man is in [deep] loss, except for those who believe and do good deeds, urge one another to the truth and urge one another to patience,” he said.

This surah opens with admonition to humankind. Allah (s.w.t.) takes an oath by “time” and declares that humankind is in a state of loss. Every single human being, man or woman, is in a state of loss except those who strive and do four things; believe, do righteous deeds, and recommend one another to truth, and to sabr (observe patience).

Sabr is one of four principal traits of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) bequeathed to his followers starting from his four caliphs (vicegerents). The three other traits are sukhr (contentment and gratefulness to whatever God provides), fikr (utmost concern for oneself, community and environment), and Zikr (constant remembrance of God). AGM MSU-GenSan upgrading campus security, punctuality

By Ali G. Macabalang, Jan. 8, 2021 GEN. SANTOS CITY – Buoyed by strings of local and foreign citations characterizing its operations in last two years, the Mindanao State UniversityGeneral Santos (MSUGenSan) satellite unit here is girding to sustain the momentum this year and embarking even on setting records anew in both academic and administrative operations.

Foremost of its agenda for 2021 is the use of drones for 24/7 security surveillance inside the MSU-GenSan campuses here and the adoption for face-recognizing gadgets

to improve workers punctuality, proponent officials said.

Five units of facedetecting devices were already purchased last week and being installed in five busy offices of the satellite campus, Lorraine D. Sarigala, MSUGenSan audit office head, told the Philippine Muslim Today Wednesday.

She said their bids and awards committee (BAC) has started the bidding for the purchase of a drone to upscale 24/7 campus security service.

“Harnessing new technologies is a salient segment of our collective drive to make MSUGenSan globally competitive in the real sense as pledged by our present leadership,” Sarigala said, referring to Campus Chancellor Anshari P. Ali. She averred: “Dr. Ali is pursuing not only moral governance but also a truly competitive academic unit. He thinks and moves always ahead in Dr. Ali was installed to office as MSU-GenSan chancellor on April 8, 2019 in grand investiture ceremony here, during which he vowed an innovative leadership to link up with counterparts in the international community, make the field campus at par with high standard universities world-wide, and carve a prominent spot in the global education map for the MSU system, according to published narratives.

In an exclusive interview here last Dec. 8, the 57-year old Ali narrated some challenges and achievements of his less than two-year regime, ranging from rehabilitation of dormitories’ toilets and other administrative structures to complex academic operation and modernization.

Students’ welfare Improving facilities for human welfare is a basic Islamic philosophy exemplified by Prophet Mohammad (s.a.w.) in building good toilets before constructing a mosque, said Dr. Ali, who is also an Islamic scholar.

“There can be no uni-

Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

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Alert Level 2, how alert you are VS. COVID-19? - 2

Batanes to Tawi-Tawi versity without students.

Students’ comfortable environment reflects the quality of any school,” he pointed out.

Academic and administrative thrusts Dr. Ali recalled that upon his appointment as campus chancellor, he had also embarked on improving the plight of campus workers by filling up all available positionitems for qualified aspirants, proving faculty members to study grants for post-graduate degrees in and outside the country, giving all monetary incentives appropriate for all of the campus academic and administrative units.

In corroboration, Sarigala said all monetary perks including the service rendered incentives (SRIs) for all employees in MSU-GenSan for 2020 have been released, citing reports that the university main campus and other satellite units were still sourcing out funds to pay SRIs of their respective personnel.

“Improving the welfare of campus workforce as well is a requisite for successful academic operations,” Ali said.

Ali cited the recent approval by the MSU Board of regents of his proposal for the elevation of teachers’ positions in the high school department of the satellite campus to collegiate or professorial level, pointing out that such move would not only upgrade in many folds the beneficiaries’ salaries but also boost further their moral to “do their best” in making MSU -GenSan an exemplary academic institution.

Administratively speaking, Ali said, he has been seeing to it that “every penny entrusted to us will be spent for the purpose.

“I am trying my best to demonstrate in actions my advocacies for moral governance. I am doing it as my sworn-duty in public service and in my covenant with our Almighty Creator,” he said.

Dr. Ali was set to present his administration’s challenges, gains and aspiration in a live interview today, Jan. 6, over DWIZ. (AGM)

With Julmunir i. Jannaral (Continued from previous issue) "If a person would not want to get vaccinated for Covid-19, that's his choice and that's his right because that is his own body given to him by God so he's the only one who can decide for himself," she said.

The best government officials can do is explain to the people the benefits of getting a Covid-19 shot, she added.

"But never make it mandatory because there are even more vaccinated people who are still infected with Covid-19 as compared with those who are not vaccinated but have strong bodies and yet they are discriminated against," Rueda-Acosta said.

If someone refuses "to be part of this experimentation since it (Covid-19) is still under clinical trial and it does not have yet its certification of efficacy and since it is only issued with the emergency authorization use, he must not be forced because that's against his right as well as the Constitution,"

she pointed out.

Confining individuals to their home just because they are unvaccinated is a violation of their rights, she said.

There is no provision in Republic Act 11525 or the law calling for a Covid -19 vaccination program that says getting jabbed is mandatory, she pointed out.

As this Batanes To Tawi-Tawi Column is under preparation the scheduled pediatric vaccination of children Ages 5-11 years old supposedly to be rolled out on Friday was postponed.

There are many reasons that caused the postponement. One reason is that there is not enough pediatric vaccines since the formulation is too different from the regular vaccines.

Be that as it may, there was a petition filed before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) to let the RTC issue a Temporary Restraining Order (RTO) to halt the pediatric vaccina-

tion of children.

That is due to the skepticism of many parents of the fate of their children for it might be another case of Dengvaxia that many schoolchildren died due to this type of Dengue vaccines.

As this developed, Shariff Ibrahim Albani who is No. 2 in the Senatorial lineup of the COMELEC announced in a virtual press conference

by Zoom that he was fully supportive of PAO Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta not to force people especially those with CoMorbidity to get vaccinated against their will.

Albani who hails from Mindanao, said it is clear violation of human rights.

This view was agreed upon by Ms. Sure Manuel who was one of the panelists during the Zoom Interview.

For your Comments/ Suggestions please send an email to: julmunir1845@gmail.c om or call this Globe Cellphone number: +639778430218.

RELATIVES | from page A41

Relatives suspect ‘extremists’ hand in HPG officer’s killing Maj. Tago, incumbent HPG head for Lanao del Sur, was brought to hospital but succumbed to fatal injuries mostly in the abdomen, the elder sibling said.

Government authorities led by Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, police regional director for the Bngsamoro autonomous region, have condemned the attack, and vowed to pursue the assailants.

“We are still establishing the motive, the fact that he (Tago) went there for family affairs” to mourn the passing of a relative, Gen. Ugale was quoted as saying.

Ugale said investigators have already gathered the identities of the assailants with the help of witnesses also among the crowd.

He initially classified the incident as “not work-related,” even as earlier published reports hinted a rido or family feud as a possible motive in the incident.

But lawyer Tago disputed the theory, saying their family has never been involved in rido for ages, citing the fact that their 90-year old father still lives without any rancor of blood debt.

Maj. Tago, 48, had served as municipal police chief in Talakag, Bukidnon and Sultan Naga Dimaporo in Lanao del Norte before joining the HPG, and had never been involved in personal feud, 63-year old lawyer Tago said.

Citing field information, lawyer Tago said the assailants fled towards the direction of the mountains of Lumbatan town in Lanao del Sur. Sultan Dumalundong and Lumbatan are adjacent to Butig town, the original base of Wahhabi militants espousing the extreme ideologies of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

Moderate Muslim theologians say Wahhabi militants consider all people, regardless of religion, associated with non-Islamic governments as “munafiq” or disbelievers worthy of killing.

Lawyer Tago said there were witnesses who saw his brother’s killers escaping aboard motorcycles bearing “black signs.” ISIS militants usually banner dark signs including a black flag.

(AGM)

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A6

News

WHO chief warns of 'very worrying increase' in Covid-19 deaths

G

ENEVA – There is a “very worrying increase” in Covid-19 deaths around the world and preventing transmission of the virus is still paramount, the head of the World Health Organization said early February.

Addressing a webinar, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said last Sunday marked two years since a public health emergency of international concern – the highest level of alarm under international law – was declared over the spread of Covid-19.

At the time, there were fewer than 100 cases and no deaths reported outside China, he said.

“Two years later, more than 370 million cases have been reported and more than 5.6 million deaths – and we know these numbers are an underestimate,” Tedros said.

WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (Anadolu file photo) He said “almost 90 million cases have been reported to WHO – more than were reported in the whole of 2020” since Omicron was first identified just 10 weeks ago.

“We are now starting to see a very worrying increase in deaths in most regions of the world,” Tedros said.

Maria van Kerkhove, the WHO’s technical lead, said over 22 million cases were reported to the WHO in the past seven days, driven mainly by Omicron.

Still need to prevent transmission “We’re concerned that a narrative has taken hold in some countries that because of vaccines, and because of omicron’s high transmissibility and lower severity, preventing transmission is no longer possible and no longer necessary,” Tedros said.

He warned that “nothing could be further from the truth,” as more transmission means more deaths.

The WHO is not calling for any country to return to the “so-called lockdowns,” but is urging all countries to offer protection using every tool, not vaccines alone, he added.

“It’s premature for any country to either surrender or declare victory,” Tedros said. “This virus is dangerous, and it continues to evolve before our very eyes.

WHO is currently tracking four sub-lineages of the Omicron variant of concern, including BA.2.”

The WHO wants countries to continue testing, surveillance and sequencing because the virus will continue to evolve, he explained.

“We can’t fight this virus if we don’t know what it’s doing,” said Tedros, adding that the world “must continue to work to ensure all people have access to vaccines.”

Vaccines may also need to evolve as variants of the virus could continue to escape neutralizing antibodies induced by vaccines against prior strains, he said.

In addition, the reservoir of beta coronaviruses is significant, and new crossovers to humans are likely, Anadolu

Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

POPCOM: Adolescent pregnancies in PHL drop by 13% in 2020

By PMT DESK STAFF

Sexual behavior changes, Covid concerns drive teen birth rate down to 31%

M

ANILA — The number of births among adolescent mothers in the Philippines in 2020 went down by 23,855 — a 13% drop which set a 17-year record for the sharpest decrease in births in women under 20 years of age since 2003, according to the Commission on Population and Development.

A substantial part of the decrease occurred in the 15 to 19 years old age bracket, as there were 23,557 mothers in that group, constituting 98.7% of the decline.

On the other hand, among those 10 to 14, or the very young adolescents (VYA), there were 298 fewer births, with the downtrend slightly lower at 12%.

As a consequence, the number of 15 to 19-year old mothers who gave birth daily went down to 425, from the previous year’s 489. In the VYA age group, there was a decline to six (6) per day, from 2019’s seven (7).

The Philippine Statistics Authority also announced that adolescent birth rates were at 31 per 1,000 girls in 2020—significantly lower than 47 per 1,000 as stated in the 2017 National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS). The Philippine Development Plan targets a rate of 37 per 1,000, while POPCOM is aiming for a 50% reduction: from the baseline of 57% as stated in the 2013 NDHS, to 28 percent by 2022.

“This is good news for us and our partners who have been advocating for a reduction in teen pregnancies, as well as the health, population and social workers in local government units (LGUs) who stepped up their services in adolescent health to achieve this result,” POPCOM Executive Director Juan Antonio A. Perez III, MD, MPH declared.

It can be recalled that POPCOM noted an increased concern for teen pregnancies among women in a November 2020 survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations.

“Parents and their adolescent children have internalized an increased awareness about the problem of teen pregnancies with regard to the health and wellbeing of girls having children as minors,” Dr. Perez commented. “The decline noted throughout the year serves as evidence that things are slowly changing for the better for our young women.”

The drastic decline in births, he added, was seen in

December 2020, “which also shows the impact of Covid-19, the lockdowns, and schools shifting away from face-to-face delivery of learning,” Despite the decrease in teen births, POPCOM continues to work to address the cumulative effects of high adolescent birth rates with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, as well as LGUs. It estimates that 160,000 families led by teen mothers will require social protection this year, and the numbers might rise anew once pandemic concerns recede.

In 2018, then-POPCOM chair and socioeconomic planning secretary Ernesto Pernia labeled teen pregnancy as a “national social emergency.” This was echoed by former health secretary Esperanza Cabral, who declared “one teen pregnancy is one too many,” as she warned also that pregnancies in the 10- to 14-years old age group is a matter of national concern, even if the numbers were still low.

A comprehensive action plan to address adolescent pregnancies was called for by virtue of Executive Order 141 issued in 2021 by President Duterte, which is due for implementation this year. Dr. Perez concluded that “these results will encourage government agencies involved with the plan that change is possible in the coming years, with further expansion of existing programs, and by increasing social protection for those who have started families at a young age. The time to act is now, and not a day later.” (PR)

UN agency launches AI-powered platform to boost sustainable dev't

G

ENEVA – The United Nations’ specialized agency for information and communication technologies launched a new community platform Tuesday driven by artificial intelligence (AI) that aims to step up global collaboration on the use of AI to drive sustainable development.

The AI for Good Neural Network is designed to accelerate exchanges among government and industry and foster partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) said in a statement.

SDGs are goals set by the UN for 2030.

"This new cutting-edge tool brings AI for Good to

the service of the United Nations and our global community in ways that were not possible just a few years ago," ITU’s Secretary-General Houlin Zhao said.

"With the ongoing (coronavirus) pandemic shifting our work and learning environments largely online, the Neural Network now leverages the power of AI to stimulate meaningful action, bring more partners aboard, and ramp up AI in pursuit of sustainable development,” Zhao said.

The new networking tool features AI-enabled smart-matching to help users build connections with innovators and experts, link innovative ideas with social impact opportunities, and bring the

community together to discuss AI applications for social good.

AI for Good is organized by ITU in partnership with 40 organizations across the UN system and co-convened with Switzerland.

It provides the leading action-oriented, global, inclusive platform promoting AI to advance health,

climate, gender, inclusive prosperity, sustainable infrastructure, and other international development priorities.

The Geneva-based ITU’s global membership includes 193 member states and over 900 companies, universities and international and regional organizations.

Anadolu

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This EXTRA JUDICAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE is made, executed and entered into by the HEIRS OF SINAB ALONTO ABANTAS, namely: SHARIFA ALONTO ABANTAS, of legal age, single, Filipino, and resident of Wao, Lanao de Sur, herein referred to as HEIR; SHORAIDA ABANTAS AMPATUA, of legal age, married, Filipino, and resident of Wao, Lanao del Sur, herein referred to as HEIR; SHANDOR ABANTAS MINDALANO, of legal age, married, Filipino, and resident of Marawi City, herein referred to as HEIR; SHAHIRAH ABANTAS-NOOR, of legal age, married, Filipino, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City, herein referred to as HEIR; SHAMBAEH ABANTAS USMAN, of legal age, married, Filipino, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City, herein referred to as HEIR; SHALIMAR ALONTO ABANTAS, of legal age, single, Filipino, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City, herein referred to as HEIR. WITNESSETH:

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R.A. 10172 & R.A. 9048 Form No. 10.1 (LCRO) Republic of the Philippines Local Civil Registry Office Province: Lanao del Sur City/Municipality: Balindong NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

4.

Whereas, the above-named HEIR are the legitimate sisters and surviving lawful heirs of the late SINAB ALONTO ABANTAS, who died on March 08, 2015 at Brokenshire Integrated Health Ministries, Inc. Brokenshire Heights, Madapo, Davao City, without last will or testament, and without outstanding debts or accounts; Whereas, the above mentioned deceased is entitled for Retirement Benefit, Cash Surrender Value (CSV) and Funeral Benefit (FB) at GSIS, formerly employed with DEPED ARMM, WAO I District; That pursuant to Section I of Rule 74 of the Revised Rules of Court of the Philippines, and all being with full capacity to contract, we do hereby adjudicate unto ourselves the abovementioned property, in equal shares pro indiviso; That we hereby affirm that we have executed the foregoing instrument out of our own voluntary free will without force, intimidation or violence upon our person, that we have hereby received our just and proper share and have no claim or demand against each other,

(SGD) ASMA N. MAMPAO Municipal Civil Registrar PMT: Jan. 7-13, 2022; Jan. 14-20, 2022; Jan. 21-27, 2022.

(SGD) SHORAIDA ABANTAS AMPATUA Heir

SGD) SHARIFA ALONTO ABANTAS Heir

(SGD) (SGD) SHANDOR ABANTAS MINDALANO SHAHIRA ABANTAS-NOOR Heir Heir

_________________________ ____________________________ Witness Witness ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Republic of the Philippines) City of Marawi - - - - - - - - ) S.S. BEFORE ME, a Notary Public, forward in the City of Marawi, this 24th day of January 2022, personally appeared;

Identification Card

Issued

This causes us to celebrate not only because of the number, but what it represents: the heart-warming pouring of enormous support in our fight to awaken the road safety consciousness of our Kababayans!

Let's keep the momentum. Let's continue to spread the road safety advocacy to win the battle against road crashes!

Let us save lives!

When we fight as one, WE WIN AS ONE!

,

SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE OF:

Name At

In just a short period, the Bayaning Tsuper (BTs) Party-list Official Facebook Page has reached 10,000 followers!

-

(SGD) SHALIMAR ALONTO ABANTAS Heir

(SGD) SHAMBAEH ABANTAS USMAN Heir

On/

SHARIFA ALONTO ABANTAS SHORAIDA ABANTAS AMPATUA SHANDOR ABANTAS MINDALANO SHAHIRAH ABANTAS-NOOR SHAMBAEH ABANTAS USMAN SHAMILAR ALONTO ABANTAS All knows to me to be the same persons who executed the foregoing instrument and hereby acknowledged to me that the same is their free and voluntary act and deed.

This instrument consisting of two (2) pages, including this page which this acknowledgement us written refers to an EXTRAJUDICAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE and has been signed by the parties and their witnesses and sealed with my notarial seal.

WITNESS MY HAND AND NOTARIAL SEAL.

In compliance with Section 7 of R.A. 10172 & Section 5 of R.A. 9048 a notice is hereby served to the public that JULYDIEN H. TAHA MAMOSACA has filed with this Office a petition for Correction of Clerical Error particularly GENDER/SEX from FEMALE TO MALE in the Certificate of Live Birth of JULYDIEN H. TAHA MAMOSACA who was born on July 7, 1997 at Cadapaan, Balindong, Lanao del Sur whose parents are LINGCOAN M. H. TAHA and SAMPORNA H. MAMOSACA. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than January 28, 2022.

A7

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Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

(SGD) ATTY. SAMBITORE M. LUCMAN NOTARY PUBLIC Until June 30, 2022 IBP No. 095693/Nov. 25, 2019 PTR No. 0300138Q/Dec. 21, 2021 Roll No. 19596

Doc. No. 1738; Page No. 161; Book No. 06; Series of 2022

PMT: Jan. 8, 2022 - Feb. 3, 2022; Feb. 4 - 10, 2022; Jan. 14-20, 2022.

Isinagawa ngayong araw ang ikatlong batch ng Bayaning Tsuper (BTS) Party-list Comprehensive Driver's Education Seminar na dinaluhan ng tinatayang 300 mga TODA drivers at iba pang tsuper ng Taytay sa Lalawigan ng Rizal.

Isang simpleng seremonya ang idinaos at dinaluhan ni BTS Party-list 1st nominee at ng Taytay Development Team, na binubuo ni Honorable Mayor Joric Gacula at Vice Mayor Mitch Bermundo, kasama ang mga Municipal Councilors na sina Jeca Villanueva, Councilor Joan Calderon, Councilor Boknay Leonardo, Councilor Gene Resurreccion, Sharon De LeonMacabebe, Patrick Alcantara, Papoo Cruz, at Kyle Gacula.

Sa talumpati ni Atty. Alex, kanyang inihayag ang ilan sa mga programang isinusulong ng BTS Party-list para sa mga TODA drivers.

"Mayroon pong programa ang Bayaning Tsuper pagdating sa mga TODA. Isang klase ng programa po ng Bayaning Tsuper, na kapag ikaw ay umabot ng 60 anyos, 50% po ang diskwento na ibibigay. Pero ganito po ang naging tanong sa atin ng TODA: 'Baka naman po pwedeng babaan ang edad para naman mapakinabangan ang ganyang programa,' " aniya.

Wika ng ating Tsuperman, "Ang panukala po nila, trenta'y anyos pataas, baka pwedeng bigyan ng diskwento, provided na kayo'y lehitimong miyembro ng TODA, gagawin po ng Bayaning Tsuper 'yan. Susuportahan po natin 'yang mga ganyang klaseng programa.

Isa-isa namang nagpasalamat ang mga miyembro ng Taytay Development Team sa patuloy na pagsasagawa ng CDE ng BTS Party-list upang matulungan ang mga tsuper ng Munisipalidad na makatugon sa requirement ng pagrerenew ng lisensya at upang maging ligtas ang mga kakalsadahan ng Taytay.

Sa bahagi ni Vice Mayor Mitch, kanyang muling hinikayat ang mga tsuper na hindi pa nakapag-avail ng programa na dumalo sa mga susunod na libreng BTS CDE. "Anyayahan natin ang ating mga kasama sa TODA na dumalo dito sa CDE, hindi lamang para makatipid ng 500, kundi marami kayong matututunan para maprevent ang aksidente. Muli maraming salamat po sa Bayaning Tsuper," ani Vice Mayor ng Taytay. (PR)

Vol. II, No. 34 | Feb. 4-10, 2022 (Rajab 3-9, 1443)

SUPPLEMENT ISSUE

ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL, Editor

Gov. Dimaporo assures WestMinCom of full support vs terrorism, lawlessness

BY JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL TUBOD, Lanao del Norte: Governor Imelda Quibranza Dimaporo has given her assurance that her home province Lanao del Norte is fully supportive of the government’s campaign against terrorism and lawlessness.

The assurance was given by Gov. Dimaporo to Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) chief Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. during his visit to the Lanao del Norte Provincial Capitol here on Monday morning, Jan. 31.

The WestMinCom commander was accompanied by Joint Task Force ZamPeLan Commander Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio; 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Rey Alemania; 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Col. Charlie Magne Batayola; and 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Col. Julius Librada.

Gov. Dimaporo thanked Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. for taking time to visit and check on the situation of the province and reiter-

POSE FOR POSTERITY WITH LANAO DEL NORTE GOVERNOR: Gov. Imelda Quibranza Dimaporo (4th from left) poses for posterity during the visit of Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) (5th from left) during the courtesy call visit of the latter to Lanao del Norte Provincial Capitol in Tubod, Lanao del Norte. Other ranking military officials accompanying Lt. Gen. Rosario Jr. are Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of Task Force ZamPeLan (2nd from left); Col. Charlie Magne Batayola, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade deputy commander (extreme left); Brig. Gen. Rey Alemania, brigade commander, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade (2nd from right); and Col. Julius Librada, commanding officer, 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion (extreme right). CONTRIBUTED PHOTO ated the people of Lanao del Norte’s oneness with the government in the campaign against terrorism and lawlessness.

Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. commended the outstanding leadership of Gov, Dimaporo. “You are an epitome of an empowered woman and we appreciate your unwavering support to the armed forces. Truly,

together we are stronger.”

The two also discussed the best practices that will be implemented in the province during the National and Local Elections 2022.

“We will deploy more troops to ensure the safety and security of all during the election period.

Rest assured that we will work doubly to sustain the

peace in the province,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. added.

Lanao del Norte is a rugged province in the southwestern section of Northern Mindanao that ranges from the coastal shorelines in the north to the high plateaus and mountains in the south. It comprises 22 municipalities and one highly urbanized city. (JIJ)

PDEA-BARMM, Philippine Marines, Sulu PNP jointly uproot P8.6-M worth of marijuana plantations in Sulu KALINGALAN CALUANG, Sulu: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) in cooperation with the Philippine Marines as well as the Sulu Philippine National Police (PNP) jointly uprooted and burned an estimated value of eight million six hundred thousand pesos (P8,600,000.00) of some 10,000 fully grown marijuana plants in Barangay Masjid Bayle, Kalingalan Caluang, Sulu the other day.

According to Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., commander of Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) on Tuesday the troops of the 4th Marine Brigade, PDEA BARMM, Sulu-PNP Special Action Force, and the intelligence units conducted a joint law enforcement operation targeting alleged marijuana planters identified as a.k.a. Banban and a.k.a. Aksan.

Lt. Gen. Rosario said upon arrival at the target area, operating troops discovered the marijuana plantation and arrested the target personalities.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu said that the marijuana plantation covered an approximately 10,000 square meters land area. PDEA-BARMM conducted documentation and spearheaded the uprooting and burning of the marijuana plants.

Proper documentation and profiling were conducted in the presence of representatives from the Provincial Prosecutor Office and other witnesses. These

documents and pieces of evidence shall be used for the filing of appropriate charges related to the violation of Republic Act 9165 against the arrested personalities.

“Congratulations to the operating troops for the successful operation. The armed forces are always ready to assist other security agencies in the conduct of law enforcement operations here in Mindanao,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. further stated.

JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Groups urge House to adopt SB2420 MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur: The Marawi Reconstruction Watch (MRCW) and International Alert Philippines have lauded legislators of the 18th Congress for their committed endeavor to passing the compensation bill for the Maranao internally displaced people (IDPs).

In a statement, the groups also urged Congress to adopt SB2420 or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022 which the Senate has just approved recently.

The watch groups made special mention of Representatives Amihilda J. Sangcopan (AMIN Party-list), Lucy Torres-Gomez (Leyte 4th District), Mujiv S. Hataman (Lone District of Basilan), Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo (Lanao del Norte 1st District), Ansarrudin Abdul Malik A. Adiong (Lanao del Sur 1st District), and Yasser Alonto Balindong (Lanao del Sur 2nd District) for their steadfast commitment to passing a compensation bill for the IDPs. The groups stated: “We are likewise profoundly grateful to our champions in the Senate, the authors of SB2420 Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri, Ronald de la Rosa, Francis Tolentino, Christopher Lawrence Go, Maria Imelda Josefa Remedios Marcos, Ana Theresia Hontiveros, Francis Pangilinan, Juan Edgardo Angara, Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, Richard Gordon, Leila de Lima, and Ralph Recto for their unwavering commitment for Marawi IDPs to get justice.

Remnants of buildings and properties in the Marawi Ground Zero devastated by the 2017 Marawi Siege. (File photo) “Now that the Senate version of the bill has been passed, we urge our legislators once again to exert one ultimate effort for the final passage of the Marawi Compensation bill by adopting SB2420, thus allowing the measure to be transmitted immediately to Malacañang for President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s signature before they go into recess for the election season.

“This monumental gesture by the House to adopt the Senate version will symbolize the Legislative’s commitment and recognition of the moral and legal obligation of the state to the full recovery of the Maranao IDPs whose lives have been suspended in this long process of rehabilitation and recovery of Marawi City and its people.

“It has been a long and arduous journey, but we continue to fight because we know this is the last thing we can hold on to. We continue to stand in solidarity with the internally displaced people of Marawi and pay tribute to their patience, perseverance, and courage.”

JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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