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Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

PHILIPPINES’ FIRST MUSLIM DIGITAL NEWSPAPER

NEWSWEEKLY The grief state of Marawi IDPS

BARMM in Focus

SUBATRA turns over ICT equipment worth P27-M to OCM, Parliament

By ATTY. BAYAN G. BALT

Much has been said to bring back our Internal Displaced Persons (or IDPS) to their homes in the most affected area of Marawi City or (MAA), yet not even a few percent have returned back, despite alleged encouragement by our local leaders.

he European Union sponsored Support Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) turned over ICT equipment worth P27-million to the Office of the Chief Minister (OCM) and Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament on Monday, March 1, here in this city. (Full story on Page A2)

EU officials turned over ICT equipment to the Office of the Chief Minister in Cotabato City. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

(MY LEGAL POINT on Page A4)

BANGSAMORO CHIEF:

MILF camp, not terrorists haven

By PMT NEWS DESK

LIGAN CITY – The interim chief minister of the Bangsamoro government said the target of the assault by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Maguing, Lanao del Sur, on March 2, 2022, was not a terrorist haven but a recognized territory of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Interim Chief Minister Ahod “Murad” Ebrahim, chair of the MILF who signed a peace deal with the government that eventually led to the setting up of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in

A2 MINDANAO

Muslim Mindanao (BARMM, issued a statement saying that the position targeted by the government for aerial bombardment that started at 2 a.m. on Tuesday, March 2, was MILF territory, hence covered by the agreement between the government and the former rebel group.

A5 2022 ELECTIONS

Ebrahim’s statement came after the military launched bomb runs on Tuesday to support the ground infantry offensive against what they claimed were 60 Daulah Islamiyah members under Abu Zacharia in the village of Ilalag, Maguing town. The AFP has main-

A6 COVID-19

Drug den in Lanao Sur yields high-powered firearms

Over 200K tourists arrive in February as PH reopens borders

NCR, 38 other areas under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to15

A joint buy bust operation have dismantled a drug den at a village here resulting to the arrest of 7 suspects, seizure of some 20 grams of illegal drugs and confiscation of high -powered firearms.

There are two Muslim men and four Muslim women accepted by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) as official candidates for senator running under different political parties.

The National Capital Region (NCR) and other areas in the country have been placed by the InterAgency Task Force (IATF) on Sunday under Alert Level 1 effective March 1 to 15.

tained that the target of the combat operations were members of the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) and Maute Group (MG), not the MILF. Col. Ramon Zagala, AFP spokesperson, reiterated that the military forces in Mindanao were running after DI commander Hadji Satar alias Abu Zacariah. MILF | A5

A8 SPECIAL FEATURE

63rd Araw ng Maigo Celebrations February 27, 2022

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

News

SUBATRA turns over equipment worth P27-M to OCM, Parliament BY JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

OTABATO CITY — The European Union sponsored Support Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) turned over Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment worth P27-million to the Office of the Chief Minister (OCM) and Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament on Monday, March 1, here in this city. Among the equipment distributed were laptops, desktop computers, projectors, printers, office furniture, and conference tables. Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) Director-General Engr. Mohajirin T. Ali said that through these equipment, the employees of the said agencies will be able to provide good services and improve/streamline their respective operations. “We’re hoping that with these equipment [ICT, office equipment], it will help the Bangsamoro employees enhance their capacity and skills in delivering good services,” Ali said. Meanwhile, Datu Aldren Utto, an administrative assistant from the OCM- Administration Management System Human Resources Management (AMS-HRM) also expressed his gratitude to SUBATRA. ”I am one of those who will benefit from these equipment [desktop computers and printers]. These will help us perform our duties better because it will definitely speed up our work,”Utto said. Aside from providing ICT equipment, SUBATRA is also committed to providing various training and workshops to BARMM employees to further enhance the capacity of each agency. Also present at the turn-over ceremony were BTA Parliament Deputy Speaker Atty. Omar Yasser Sema, MP and BTA Majority Floor Leader Atty. Lanang Ali Jr., heads and representatives from offices under OCM and BTA, SUBATRA Team Leader Bernard Jolly, and United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Project Manager for SUBATRA Cristina Elisse Capistrano. SUBATRA is a program funded by the European Union (EU) that promotes a good governance environment to support the efficient implementation of policies set up by the transition plan with a focus on capacities that are critical for a sound functioning of interim institutions. (JIJ)

BARMM boosts livestock production in its NCot Special Geographic Areas COTABATO CITY — The Bangsamoro Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) distributed livestock inputs in the region’s Special Geographical Area (SGA), Kabacan, North Cotabato. Senior Agriculturist Seeham S. Pangol, Banner Program Coordinator, on Monday, said this is to improve the production of goat and native chicken in the SGA. Pangol said farmers’ cooperatives from the eight clusters of the said area received 65 heads of native goats and 100 heads of free-range native chickens from MAFAR thru its Livestock and Poultry Management Section. He said before the actual distribution, an inspection was made to ensure that livestock inputs were healthy and have passed the specific required age and weight. “The distribution of assistance is purposely to maximize the production of goat and chicken in the region along with our determination to have our farmers’ additional source of income in the area,” Pangol said. Assistant to the Provincial Director for SGA and Cotabato City Disumimba D. Rasheed reminded each beneficiary to take their utmost responsibilities by taking care of the animals and should exert all their efforts in expanding the received assistance. “We ensure that every beneficiary will receive further assistance, and our main objective here is to help you grow through your farm activity. Because we believed that the success of this program is also the success of the ministry,” Rasheed said. The distribution was facilitated by the Kabacan Sub -office of MAFAR-SGA. Each beneficiary received two heads of goats while the 100 heads of free-range native chickens were given to their respective organizations, together with one unit of incubator which could cater up to 336 eggs. JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

ILLEGAL DRUGS

Drug den in Lanao Sur yields high-powered firearms By PMT NEWS DESK

ARANTAO, Lanao del Sur – A joint buy bust operation conducted by operatives have dismantled a drug den at a village here resulting to

the arrest of 7 suspects, seizure of some 20 grams of illegal drugs and confiscation of high-powered firearms.

P/Col. Christopher W. Panapan, Provincial Director of Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO), in a statement said the joint buy bust operation was conducted by elements of PDEA LDS, PDEA RSET BARMM, Marantao MPS, PSOG/PDEU LDS PPO, Bacolod Kalawi MPS, 1st PMFC LDS PPO, 500 CEB, and 51st IB in the morning of Monday, Feb. 28, 2022. Panapan identified the suspects as SAOEKI MARAKNA MALA @ SAOEKI; ASNAWI MUSID GONTORA @ABAR; ANSANO MUSID GONTORA @ ALEX; JABER DIMAO MUSTAPA @ TABAK; ABDUL KAHER G. GONTORA; ONAES ABDUL KADER @ DISOMIMBA, AND GONTORA MUSIB AGAR @ POSO. Found in the suspects’ possession are more or less 20grms of shabu with a national average price of Php 136,000.00; one (1) piece genuine 1,000 peso bill used as Buy Bust Money; two (2) unit Samsung analog phone; one (1) unit

black sling bag, and one (1) piece black belt bag. The suspects and the recovered items were placed under the custody of Marantao MPS for the proper filing of cases (RA 9165 and RA 10591) and for proper disposition. “Collaborative efforts between the security forces and concerned citizens in the area yielded the success of the operation,

BUY BUST OPERATION: Seven suspects were nabbed during a drug buy bust operation in Marantao, Lanao del Sur by joint operatives on Feb. 28, 2022. (Photo courtesy from LDSPPO) M14 cal. 7.62 with Magazine assembly with 4 live ammunitions; one (1) unit automatic submachine gun with magazine assembly with 5 live ammunitions; Drug paraphernalia; Various Identification Cards under the name of “Gontora Musid Abar”; one (1) unit weighing scale; one (1) piece brown leatherette wallet containing 250 pesos; one (1) piece

hence we will continue our strong partnership with the community in addressing this menace in the society with the guiding principle of our Regional Director, PRO BAR, to relentlessly pursue those people who are engaged in illegal drugs including those who are benefiting from it,” Panapan said. (With Julmunir I. Jannaral)

Motorized banca in Iligan City placed under “Color Coding” ILIGAN CITY – A bomb exploded along the national highway in Maguindanao town of Datu Odin Sinsuat while a convoy of local candidates was passing by on Tuesday afternoon. ILIGAN CITY – The local government unit (LGU) of Iligan City has required operators or owners of motorized bancas (small canoes) in the city to register their boats with the LGU and be

BY RIC ARELLANO ABEDIN

placed under Color Coding. In an ordinance passed by the Sangguniang Panlungsod, owners or operators of bancas, will be advised to paint their boats a color prescribed by authorities so that they will be easily recognized in case they will be waylaid to other areas. It is learned that to

register a banca, the operator or owner must pay P300 valid for three years. Bancas are also advised not to engage fishing in other areas to avoid being apprehended by Maritime Police and the Coast Guard who will seize fisherfolks fishing outside the areas they are permitted for fishing. Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz

reiterated the advice of City Councilor Sol Bacsarpa who chairs the Sangguniang Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries. “Fishermen are prohibited to engage in illegal fishing like using small fishing net, compressor machine ug dynamites so that fish ling and fish fries or small fishes shall not be affected and diminish fish population,” added the vice mayor. (PMT)

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OUR VOTE MATTERS Know Your Muslim Senatorial Candidates By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

fter we have published these Free Ads for us to know who are the Muslims who had signified their good intentions to run as official candidates for Senators in the coming May 9, 2022 National and Local Elections, there are now two Muslim men and four Muslima accepted by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) as official candidates running in different parties. They are Shariff Ibrahim Albani (SIA) running

under the Labor Party of the Philippines (LPP) and Robin Padilla who was announced by Vice Presidential Candidate Inday Sara Duterte in a rally in Pasay, as member of 12-man Senatorial slate of UniTeam. However the announcement of Inday Sara was immediately corrected by Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. who said Robin Padilla is not officially under the UniTeam Senatorial slate but just a mere friend of UniTeam. The four Muslima in the Senatorial slate also running in the different political parties. The new one is Nur Mahal Kiram who is dubbed as the Prinsesang May Malasakit. She is popularly known in her Facebook Account as Princess Light Kiram. Nur Mahal Kiram is the daughter of the late Sulu Sultan Mahakuttah Kiram by his wife Princess Meriam Kiram. At the same time she is the sister of the reigning Sultan Muedzul-Lail Tan Kiram of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo (Sabah). The other two Muslima running for Senators are Princess Lady Anne Sahidulla of Sulu and Samira Gutoc ng Aksyon Demokratiko of Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. If you know other Muslim candidates not yet featured in this column, let them submit their photo and brief profile by sending an e-mail to julmunir1845@gmail.com or call JIJ Cellphone: +639778430218.

Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

Message of “Katarungan Para Sa Marawi” on ‘Isra Wal Mi’raj’

On behalf of my family, allow me to express my best wishes and congratulations to the good people of the Islamic City of Marawi as well as the good constituents of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and the entire Muslim World on the occasion of Lailatul Isra Wa’l Mi’raj which fall on Feb. 28, 2022. May Allah shower more His Blessings and Mercy upon us all and let peace and prosperity reign in our midst. CANA ANNUAR SUMNDAD MARABUR Katarungan Para sa Marawi

Greetings from Marawi City Councilor Alim Marangit on ‘Isra Wal Mi’raj’

ISLAMIC CITY OF MARAWI, Lanao del Sur — Member of Marawi City Sangguniang Panlungsod Councilor Alim Nasif Marangit expresses his warm greetings and esteemed wishes for the good people of the Islamic City of Marawi and the entire Muslim world on the occasion of Lailatul Isra Wal Mi’raj. This event marks the night that Allah swt took Mohammad saw on a journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to heaven.

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opinion

Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

The grief state of Marawi IDPS

Editorial

M World Hijab Day: More Than Just A Celebration of Covering Up

ebruary 1 of every year has recently been observed as World Hijab Day. This year saw the passage of a law that made World Hijab Day an observance in this country. While this is certainly welcome news in the face of increasing Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiments worldwide, still, it would do the ordinary Muslim and Muslimah for that matter, to revisit the hijab and what it means, and its place in the larger scheme of things apart from being part and parcel of Muslim womanhood. Religious significance aside, hijab is a loaded term, replete with a plethora of meanings for those who wear and/or encounter it. For the majority who wear it, it is fulfilling the commandment of modesty, a symbol of protection that the woman in Islam is entitled to. For others, it has become a political statement; for others it is a symbol of dissent. Others see it as a symbol of empowerment in a maledominated public sphere, while for those unfamiliar with it, a token of oppression. Still others see it as a mere piece of clothing having not much of a significance beyond its utilitarian function. This then would take us to a discussion of why would people celebrate World Hijab Day at all. Would observing this day make tangible and lasting changes to Muslim women’s, and indeed, all women’s lives as a whole? This, considering that in many places, more so in less developed countries, women are still being begrudged their basic human rights, hijab or no hijab, that their contributions to their communities are still being discounted, whether they wear a hijab or not. While those who do celebrate on Feb 1 do have their reasons for doing so, for many women, it must be remembered that in many contexts and many places, there is still a long way to go before even the women who do wear the hijab can honestly say that their lives, even at the basic level, have become better and that they have been given the God-given justice that they so deserve. Let World Hijab Day then not just be merely a celebration of what it means to be covered up in a headscarf, niqab, kumbong, and what have you. Let it also be a reminder that Muslim women, and all women for that matter, still have a long way to go in terms of having their existence and contributions to their society and their country genuinely recognized and validated. Let World Hijab Day be a reminder of the need to counter not just hijabiphobia, but Islamophobia as well. Let it be a reminder to Muslims as well of Islam’s true supportive stance towards womenkind. Let World Hijab Day resonate more meaningfully among everyone so it does not remain a mere day to be ticked off the calendar every first day of February. (Repost) Philippine Muslim Today Inc. Co. Reg. No. 2021030008913-02

Philippine Muslim Today newspaper is published weekly by Philippine Muslim Today Inc., a non-profit, non-political Muslim organization aimed to promote universal unity, peace and understanding among diverse peoples. MASIDING NOOR YAHYA Executive Editor HEADQUARTERS AND PRINTING PLANT: Address: Consunji Street, Poblacion, Iligan City, 9200 PH Phone: +63 63 3025565 (Landline) | +63 915 2184388 (Mobile) Email: muslimtoday2020@gmail.com Https://philmuslim.today

uch has been said to bring back our Internal Displaced Persons (or IDPS) to their homes in the most affected area of Marawi City or (MAA), yet not even a few percent have returned back, despite alleged encouragement by our local leaders. After our government forces successfully drive the Maute inspired ISIS terrorists, sometimes in October 2017, the government announced to clear the once battle ground zero of unexploded bombs for the safety of returning IDPS. Unfortunately, it took almost three years for the contractor to finished their work to disposed unexplode bombs. In Laos likewise ravaged by war for decades, where thousands of unexploded bombs are scattered in the war zone, have successfully disposed unexploded bombs

in less than a year, says a ranking DPWH official, using modern technology like drone that can identify the location of the bombs in the monitor and extracted immediately. On several occasion, the authorities have announced its program for the return of IDPS in the GZ, they called “Kambalingan” without developing the area inhabitable for human being. “I prefer to live in the Amazon rainforest rather than the GZ” as one resident told this column. He was referring to the GZ lacks of electricity and waters till now. “In the Amazon River, there are electric fly during night time while you can fetch waters in the nearby river”, he added. While several rehabs finished Mosques including the Marawi Grand Mosque remain closed to the devotees due to lack of electricity and waters.

Adding to this sordid state are various documents such as tax clearances, title and building permit required of them by the City government, worst real property taxes

ever, they are likewise awarded to alleged favor supporters. The City government can do a better job if they openly publish the beneficiaries of its shelter and e strikes

My Legal Point by Atty. Bayan G. Balt

has reportedly doubled. What is then left for the poor IDPS? They will allegedly continue as milking cow of politicians. Permanent shelters are supposed to benefit the displaced, yet it was reportedly awarded to favor voters, further there are 200 e-strikes (motorcycle) donated by the Department of Energy to Marawi City (Jan. 12, 2018) as what DOE says, “the residents must recover from the ashes of terrorist’s siege”, how-

awardees. Some poor IDPS who has nothing in their pockets has to engaged in small business to support their family. They are simply reportedly exploited owing to their weakness. One IDPS who put up a small sari-sari store told this column that he is being charged P2, 260.00 minus business tax to obtain a permit to operate from the city government. These payBALT | A8

The Euphoria of Muslim Unity

f the many religions in the world, Islam stands out as the only one where its adherents; the Muslims, are enjoined in the Glorious Qur’an to hold on to the rope of Allah and be not divided. They are likened to the human fingers that if any part of which is hurt, all the other fingers would feel the same pain. Sadly, however, this is not the case in the world community of Muslims as it is not, and even more so in the Philippines setting. The Muslims Association of the Philippines, for once the most formidable aggrupation of Filipino Muslims, counting as its members whos who in the social, business, government and political pages of Philippine tabloids, Senators, Congressmen, governors, mayors and cabinet members, name it, you have it, has now all but drained into the doldrum of oblivion. How I wish somebody stands up and correct me on this for indeed, it is my wish that this association remains strong and vibrant. It is only a ghost of the past that keeps coming back in the recesses of our minds, sometimes in our dreams and at other

times in fleeting apparitions. It has been a long time ago, when this association, at its glory days would call for a national convention bringing together in the conference table high government officials, business, tycoons and learned ulemas and foreign and local dignitaries. It was feast in the eyes seeing Muslim ladies attending in their colorful and glittering native attires and the gentlemen in their barong Filipinos, suits or in their cultural get ups. But, it is their rhetoric and in their play of words that would mesmerize the audience and gave the public the worth of their money. This writer had the privilege to watch and actively participate in the convention sponsored by the late Secretary of Justice Simeon A. Datumanong in 2004, held at the Ramada Hotel which gathered such political stalwarte as Sultan Governor Ali Dimaporo, the brilliant lawyer Atty. Macapanton Abbas, Jr. , Senator Santanina Rasul and her daughter Amina Rasul Bernardo, Muslim Congressmen and former Regional Governor Lindy Pangandaman and his son, then Undersecretary

of Agrarian Reform Nasser C. Pangandaman just to mention a favor. It maybe that the need for Muslim Unity may not be in the calendar much less in the priority list of

sical differences in theological tenets among scholars have taken its toll on this association. There is also the Ansar el Islam but for its combative posture, it has also

The Outside View by Judge Panambulan Mimbisa (ret.) our Muslim leaders but it is this writer’s hope who strongly hold on the precept that hope springs eternal that his will soon, in our time register in their consciousness and bang the gong to signal that the convention had been called to order. There is no gain saying in the fact that we have, as of the present an abundance, of well placed Muslim leaders both in government and the private sectors who could pick up the pieces and start rebuilding the structures that once stood as the shining symbol of Muslim Unity. The Supreme Council of Islamic Association of the Philippines organized by the late Governor Sultan Ali Dimaporo have had its brief tryst with history but strong political and clas-

dissipated. Let us politics all we can but, after the elections are over, we return to the embrace of friends, brothers or sisters again. As world renowned pundits would say, in politics there are no permanent friends nor permanent enemies, there is only permanent interest. But, believe me, there is no interest higher that the Qur’anic injunction of unity. It would have been ideal if the Muslim Filipinos had one solid voice in these coming elections but since there is none and recognizing that what is ideal may not necessarily be the best, it is my hope, my prayers if you will, that after the elections, we will each find our way back again to the MIMBISA | A7

News

Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

Over 200K tourists arrive in February as PH reopens borders By FERDINAND PATINIO ANILA – Over 200,000 international arrivals were recorded since the country opened its borders for fully vaccinated foreigners last month, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported on Thursday. breath of fresh air to see families and binational couples reunite once again. I am positive that with our continued adherence to health protocols, we are slowly on the road to recovery," he said. Meanwhile, BI port operations chief Carlos Capulong said of the over 200,000 passengers who arrived in the country in February, 154,661 were Filipinos. "(Around) 72 percent of those who arrived last February were returning Filipinos. This is followed by Americans with 21,383 arrivals, Canadians with 4,026, and British with 3,250," he said. The BI official assured the public that they are ready for the continued

Netizens behind fake photos of missing sabungero’ identified

In a statement, Commissioner Jaime Morente said a total of 211,899 passengers arrived last month. “This is also more than 130-percent higher than the 91,000 passenger arrivals in February of 2021," he said in a statement. An increase in tourist arrival was also recorded in January with 150,740 compared to the previous year with only 95,592. Morente expressed hope that the travel industry will now gradually recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. "After almost two years of battling the effects of travel bans and border closures, it is a

increase of passengers in the airports. "The foresight on international travel is getting better. We have deployed enough officers and improved our e-gate services at our international ports to guarantee efficiency at the BI stations," Capulong said. In a Viber message, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval also reported that a total of 55 tourists were excluded for noncompliance with InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Dis-

eases (IATF-EID) requirements from February 10 to 28. “We have seen a significant rise in the number of passengers since we opened our borders for fully vaccinated foreign nationals this February, as compared to the low figures in 2021. While we are not yet seeing prepandemic figures, we are confident that this steady increase is the start of the recovery of the country's international travel and tourism industries,” she added. (PNA)

ANILA – The Philippine National Police-AntiCybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) announced it has identified netizens behind posting fake photos of missing sabungero (cockfighting aficionados). The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) on Sunday announced it has identified the owners of the five Facebook accounts that posted misleading photos about the probe on the missing sabungero (cockfighting aficionados). Col. Froiland Lopez, chief of the Cyber Patrollers and Investigation Unit, said the posts were made by Shierna Rose Amparado, Candice Delatorre, Anthony Dela Pena, Vincelou Mendigo Oludnacatab (Lou), and Grace Gucman Panes who alleged that the bodies of the 31 missing persons were found in Tanay, Rizal. In a statement, PNP-ACG chief Brig. Gen. Robert Rodriguez said the photos that circulated on social media were taken from an ambush incident in Barangay Kalumanis, Guidulungan, Maguindanao, where nine died on February 12.

CA affirms life in jail for Colombian drug mule MANILA – The Court of Appeals (CA) has affirmed the life imprisonment sentence handed down by a Manila court to a septuagenarian Colombian national who was nabbed in 2017 for entering the country with 1.17 kilograms of cocaine in rubber pellets inside his stomach. The appellate court's Ninth Division, in a 23page decision dated February 22, denied the appeal filed by Alberto Quijano, 72, and affirmed the decision of the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 31, that convicted him of transportation of illegal drugs and ordered

him to pay a PHP2 million fine. Quijano was apprehended by operatives of the Airport Drug Interdiction Task Group at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on Nov. 12, 2017, following a tip from the United States government about the suspect who arrived in the country onboard Emirates Airline flight EK-332 from Dubai. Law enforcers accosted and immediately brought the suspect to the Pasay General Hospital, where he underwent an xray medical scanning procedure which later showed 79 rubber pellets in his

stomach. The substances inside the rubber pellets later tested positive for cocaine, although Quijano himself tested negative for cocaine and marijuana. The medical staff took more than 24 hours excreting the rubber pellets from the suspect. The substance was brought to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) laboratory for examination, while Quijano underwent a drug test and was detained at the agency's detention center. Ruling against his appeal, the appellate court

said “Quijano was validly arrested, and the pieces of evidence recovered from him are admissible”. “It cannot be said that the foreign intelligence— consisting of Quijano’s name, age, nationality, passport, flight details, and the means by which he would transport the illegal drugs—was the sole basis for Quijano’s arrest. These were complemented by the fact that he complained of stomach ache, the presence of foreign pills-shaped objects in his stomach as revealed by the x-ray, and his excretion of these pillshaped objects,” the court added. Benjamin Pulta/ PNA

MILF | from Page A1

MILF camp, not terrorists haven But Ebrahim said the encounter that happened was between their forces and the military. At least seven suspected terrorists were already killed in the combat operations, said Zagala. While on the government side, he added, a soldier was killed and 4 wounded. “Our dear constituents in Maguing, Lanao del Sur have been troubled (by the) military airstrikes and most recently, the firefight that involved members of the military and forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” said Ebrahim. He said the incident has claimed lives and has forced some of our constituents to flee their homes and find shelters in nearby areas. “We are now closely working with our partners from

the local government, the security forces, and ministers on the ground to assist our internally displaced communities and assure that they get home safely as soon as possible,” Ebrahim said. “The Bangsamoro government is also making sure that the ongoing ceasefire between the MILF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will produce positive outcomes and provide permanent resolution to the conflict,” he added. He did not say whether or not the MILF would file a protest over the military’s action and violations of ceasefire protocols, but he said they were optimistic that there would no longer be any confrontation on the ground even as he urged to fully operationalize existing security mechanisms. (PMT)

“As the ACG continues to intensify its campaign against cybercriminals, I would like to once again remind the public to use social media responsibly and to avoid the spreading of fake news as disinformation only adds up to the emotional struggle and anguish of the family of the missing persons” Rodriguez said. “Our cyber patrollers will continue to monitor daily and the authors in the spreading of fake news will be investigated,” he added. Interior Secretary Eduardo Año asked persons with information on the 31 missing cockfight enthusiasts to cooperate with authorities. “Sa tingin ko, maso-solve na rin ito sa lalong madaling panahon. Ang hinihintay lang natin dito lumabas pa ‘yung witnesses (I think this will be resolved soon. We are just waiting for the witnesses to come out),’’ Año said in a radio interview. “Sobra na ito dahil 31 buhay ito at 31 pamilya ang naapektuhan at naghahanap ngayon at hindi makatulog (This is too much because 31 lives are involved and 31 families are affected, looking for them and having sleepless nights),’’ he added. The PNP previously said the fake posts were apparent attempts to derail the investigation. The Senate has also opened an inquiry while some lawmakers called on the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to suspend the licenses of electronic sabong operators pending the result of the investigation. PMT News Desk

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News

Pumpkin and Beef Curry

NCR, 38 other areas under Alert Level 1 March 1-15 By PMT DESK STAFF

BANGSAMORO HALAL DISH With Maria Fhebie Ortil

alaam and have a nice Friday to everyone. The Bangsamoro Halal Cuisine is now in Volume 2 No. 38. Again our topic now is another curry recipe. It is known as Thai-style beef curry. This Thai-style beef curry is amazingly delicious, with chunks of pumpkin in a mildly spicy and rich curry. The preparation or procedure in cooking this Thai-style Beef Curry needs only easy to procure ingredients and simple ways of instructions if you want to produce this amazingly delicious spicy and Thai-style Beef Curry.

INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 pack (1.76 oz. /50g) red curry paste 4 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 cups (350 ml) coconut milk 1 pound (0.4 kg) beef , sliced thinly 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon paprika powder 6 kaffir lime leaves 1 1/2 cups cubed pumpkin or Kabocha pumpkin INSTRUCTIONS In a small bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, red curry paste and 4 tablespoons coconut milk. Stir-fry the red curry paste mixture in a wok over medium heat until fragrant. Add the beef and give a quick toss. Let it cook for about 1 minute and then add in the 1 1/2 cups coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, paprika powder and kaffir leaves. Stir to mix. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Add the pumpkin and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Serve with rice. (MFO)

Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

ANILA – The InterAgency Task Force (IATF) on Sunday approved placing the National Capital Region under Alert Level 1 effective March 1 to 15. In a statement from the office Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, acting presidential spokesperson, the other 38 areas that will be under Alert Level 1 for the first half of March are: • Abra, Apayao, Baguio City and Kalinga in the Cordillera Administrative Region; • Dagupan City, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan in Region I; • Batanes, Cagayan, City of Santiago, Isabela, and Quirino in Region II; • Angeles City, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Olongapo City, Pampanga, and Tarlac in Region 3; • Cavite and Laguna in Region 4-A; • Marinduque, Puerto Princesa City, and Romblon in Region 4-B; and • Naga City and Catanduanes in Region 5. In the Visayas, also under Alert Level 1 are: • Aklan, Bacolod City,

Capiz, and Guimaras in Region 6; • Siquijor in Region 7; and • Biliran in Region 8. In Mindanao, the following areas under Alert Level 1 are: • Zamboanga City in Region 9; • Cagayan de Oro City and Camiguin in Region 10; and • Davao City in Region 11. Movement of persons regardless of age (with restrictions on crowded and closed spaces and close contact settings) and full capacity in private establishments and gov-

ernment agencies are allowed, subject to minimum health protocols. under Alert Level 1. Under Alert Level 2 are (Luzon) Cordillera Administrative Region: Benguet, Ifugao, and Mountain Province; Region 2: Nueva Vizcaya; Region 3: Nueva Ecija and Zambales; Region 4A: Batangas, Lucena City, Quezon, and Rizal; Region 4-B: Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, and Palawan; and Region 5: Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon; (Visayas) Region 6: An-

tique, Iloilo City, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental; Region 7: Bohol, Cebu Province, Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and Negros Oriental; and Region 9: Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Ormoc City, Southern Leyte, Tacloban City, and Western Samar. In Mindanao, Region 9: City of Isabela, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, and Zamboanga Sibugay; Region 10: Bukidnon, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental; Region 11: Davao De Oro, Davao Del Sur, Davao Del Norte, Davao Oriental, and Davao Occidental; Region 12: General Santos City, North Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat; Region 13 (Caraga(sad) Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Butuan City, and Dinagat Islands; and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao: Basilan, Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi -Tawi, Cotabato City, and Lanao Del Sur. (PR/OPS)

Maranao leader appeals for PRRD to correct AFP offensive vs MILF camp in Maguing, LDN MAGUING, Lanao del Sur – A Maranao leader and renowned Islamic scholar has appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte to correct the offensive of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the legitimate Camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Maguing, Lanao del Sur which started early morning of Mar. 1 (Tuesday). In a social media post on Wednesday, Mar. 2, Alim Fatani Abdul Malik, a renowned religious scholar and aspiring for congressman representing the first district of the province, said the offensive may jeopardize Duterte’s legacy of having the genuine accord with the Bangsamoro Mujahideen Group. “If the AFP is hunting just a few criminals they have to assign the matter to the PNP in a particular town like Maguing,” he added.

Abdul Malik said he hailed from and a native of Maguing. He said the AFP using aerial strikes like what they did on Tuesday early morning in upper part of Maguing is a crime in their part and sending 50 to 60 trucks of soldiers in a small town is also prohibited by law that may be answerable by the AFP Commander in the Province of Lanao del Sur. As temporary ceasefire has been reached by the warring parties, Abdul Malik urged the Bangsamoro leadership to interfere for a final disengagement between the AFP and legit MILF Forces. He expressed condolence to the families of the casualties during the exchanges of fire between the AFP and rebel forces. (PMT)

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Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

Int’l humanitarian law, human rights stressed to WestMinCom personnel BY JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

AMP NAVARRO, Calarian, Zamboanga City — The conduct of advocacy and case audit on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights were emphasized to key officers and enlistBrig. Gen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac, AFPCLOAC director, told the military officers and men that there is a need to periodically conduct workshops and conferences to constantly remind the military personnel to stick to the laws of armed conflict as they work for the attainment of lasting peace and progress in the communities. Brig. Gen. Nacnac who was received by Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, Depu-

ty Commander for Operations of WestMinCom, at the Laong Laan Hall in

ed personnel of Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) during the recent visit of the director of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Center for Law of Armed Conflict (AFPCLOAC).

this military command also emphasized the felt need to monitor IHL viola-

tions committed by the enemies of the state and reports such violations to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). He said the violations include the utilization of child combatants and recruitment by the Communist Terrorist Group. The two generals also discussed the importance of adherence to the International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights during the conduct of military operations. (JIJ)

BARMM Parliament pushes to declare tomb of Sulu Sultanate founder, Kutawato Cave as heritage zones

OTABATO CITY — To preserve and develop Bangsamoro cultural heritage sites, lawmakers in the region are pushing to declare the tomb of Sultan Sharieful Hashim

in Indanan, Sulu, founder of the Sulu Sultanate, and the Kutawato Cave in Cotabato City, as historical heritage sites and ecotourism destinations.

The proposed measures are contained in Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Bill Nos. 173 and 174 filed in the Parliament last Feb. 23. Member of the Parliament (MP) Don Mustapha Loong, principal author of the proposed acts, on Thursday said that BTA Bill No. 173 “will enhance and promote Tausug culture and will contribute to the prestige of Sulu as the cradle of Bangsamoro government.” In the proposed measures, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism (MTIT) and the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) will spearhead the conserva-

and maintenance of the facilities and structure. Sultan Hashim founded the Sultanate of Sulu, introduced Islamic political institutions, and made Islam the state religion. “It is only befitting that we take steps to promote his invaluable contribution to our political consciousness and aspiration by preserving, conserving, and developing his tomb to serve as a constant reminder of our origin and illustrious past,” he added. Meanwhile, Parliament Bill No. 174, according to MP Loong, “is among our small steps to preserve our history, culture, and heritage.” In the explanatory note

Old File Photo of Sharif ulHashim, who is a. Arab explorer and founder of the Sultanate of Sulu. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO tion of the two historical sites. They will also prepare a historical heritage site conservation, development, and promotion plan as well as an ecotourism plan that includes the rehabilitation, construction, installation, beautification,

of the proposed bill, Kutawato Cave became the refuge of the Moros to avoid forcible conversion to Christianity during the Spanish regime. “It behooves on us that we take steps to protect and preserve this monument as a source of our pride and part of our history of struggle,” he ended. Section 24 of Article 9 of the Bangsamoro Organic Law mandates the Bangsamoro Government to preserve the history, culture, arts, traditions, and rich cultural heritage of the Bangsamoro people and their Sultanates non-Moro indigenous peoples of the region. (JIJ)

BALT | from Page A4

The grief state of Marawi IDPS ments are itemized as MIP P800, Occupation P100, Signage P60, BFC, P800, Business plate P500. It was reportedly signed by one Anggay Abdullah. We call on the city government to explain to the public the meaning of these fees enumerated above, simply in Manila, they will charge small business starting fee to operate a registration of P500. and another P30. as Documentary tax fee. All these alleged irregularities must be fairly and

justly investigated by the authorities in line with BARMM’s moral governance, otherwise our IDPS who lost their homes, livelihood and loved ones will remain under the mercy of shark eating officials. Transparency is always an ingredient of democratic governance, while Islam tell us, “that the truth must be said”, the prophet of Islam (pbuh) once said that, “Good governance is achievable through the application of Islamic view of accountability and transparency”. (PMT)

Remembering Bud Dajo Massacre

his Batanes To Tawi-Tawi Column would like to congratulate Member of Parliament Don Mustapha Loong from Jolo, Sulu for filing the Bangsamoro Bill Nos. 173 and 174.

Batanes to Tawi-Tawi With Julmunir i. Jannaral

MP Loong filed Bangsamoro Bill No. 173 to declare the tomb of Sultan Sharieful Hashim located in Indanan, Sulu as a heritage site. Sultan Sharieful Hashim was the founder of the Sultanate of Sulu. In like manner, MP Loong also filed Bangsamoro Bill No. 174 to declare the Kutawato Cave also as another heritage site. What could be the significance of making Kutawato Cave as a heritage site. Based on the explanatory note of Bill No. 174, Kutawato Cave became the refuge of the Moros to avoid forcible conversion to Christianity during the Spanish regime. Thus BTA Bill No. 173 “will enhance and promote Tausug culture and will contribute to the prestige of Sulu as the cradle of Bangsamoro government.” Now with the passage of Bangsamoro Bill Nos. 173 and 174 into law, I hope MP Loong and other Members of Parliament from the Province of Sulu will take cognizance the memorable data of the First Battle of Bud Dajo, also known as the Moro Crater Massacre, which was a counterinsurgency action fought by the the United State Army against Moros in March 5-8, 1906, during the Moro Rebellion in the southwestern Philippines. Whether the occupants of Bud Dajo were hostile to U.S. forces is disputed, as inhabitants of Jolo Island had previously used the crater, which they considered sacred, as a place of refuge during Spanish assaults. Major Hugh Scott, the District Governor of Sulu Province, where the incident occurred, recounted that those who fled to the crater “declared they had no intention of fighting, – ran up there only in fright, had some crops planted and desired to cultivate them. Now I hope MP Loong will take time to remember Bud Dajo in Patikul, Sulu and will file separate Bangsamoro bill making it another heritage site. It is an extinct volcano and located in Patikul around 8 kilometers southeast from the capital town of Jolo in Sulu province. ———For your Comments & Suggestions, please send an email to: julmunir1845@gmail.com. Cellphone No. +639778430218.

MIMBISA | from Page A4

The Euphoria of Muslim Unity comfort of friends and relatives and then we can talk of unity. Indeed, this is not the end of the road. Far from it, as the giant is just on a slumber and will awake soon at the least expected time. For now, it will serve us well if we remember that we have Muslim brothers and sisters who are applying to be senators and they are asking for our joint appointment. Maybe, as we aspire for that elusive unity, we can begin mending our fences by giving our votes, our most precious sadqas, to Ms. Samera Gutuc, Mr. Almansil Albani and Mr. Abdulaziz Robin Padilla with our prayers that they smerge victorious and take the cudgel in the building of the edifice for Muslim Unity. (PMT)

Special Feature

Vol. II, No. 38 | Mar. 4-10, 2022 (Shaban 1-7, 1443)

LGU Maigo marks “63rd Founding Anniversary” Story and photos by: Armand Apolinario

AIGO, Lanao del Norte – The local government (LGU) of Maigo has successfully celebrated its 63rd founding anniversary on Feb. 27, 2022, in a simple but meaningful ceremony at the Maigo Gymnasium. The celebration was attended by the 13 Barangay Captains, Barangay Kagawads, the Military, PNP, BFP, other government line agencies, department heads, employees, and visitors. Municipal Vice Mayor Joseph Neri did the opening of the program proper and welcome all the Speakers, SB members, Barangay officials, the Military, PNP, BFP, all the municipal employees and visitors. SB Member Julius Frago had explained the History of Maigo then and now, emphasizing the creation of Maigo Municipality by then President

hunters of deer, the hunter had shoot a deer that was not fatally hit and had got ran to the shore, along the shore there were children that are playing and they saw the hunters that are coming and bringing with them firearms, the children got feared they ran and shouted; “Dagan ta kay basin MAIGO ta”! At that time people learned it in said place and until this place was named “Maigo”. The Maigo town’s name was originated from the children who were playing at the shore. During that period inter-marriages were al-

Barangay officials, the Military, PNP, BFP and all other sectors of the community, Olavides added. MSU Maigo Supt., Atty Jamaloden Basar was represented by Dr. Abdulraof, she said that for two years having the Pandemic challenges that have overcome by the LGU Maigo and all government agencies support the pursuit of Peace and Development. And wish them, Happy 63rd Araw ng Maigo!, she said. Hon. Mayor Ina Louise R. Miflores also gave her message thru virtual, she said that happy celebration on the 63rd Araw ng Maigo and she is very

Former Mayor Rafael “Paeng” Rizalda gives his message on the 63rd Araw ng Maigo. (PMT photo by Armand Apolinario) He emphasized the History of Maigo, the importance of Unity of all the Muslims and Christians. The Maigo town was cre-

lution to all the problems at hand. In Maigo, we need investors to have economic development, Rizalda added.

our economic upliftment and business activities, especially those who are engaged in restaurants, the transport or drivers and other businesses. Many people from other places will come to Maigo for they have transactions with these three government offices, Rizalda explained. For those people who are attacking Maigo Leaders are not considered that they are real people of Maigo, with their action it is counter-productive to the development of this town, he concluded. SB Rolando Semacas did the closing remarks, he extended his thanks for the virtual message of Hon. Mayor Ina Louise R. Miflores, and the messages of Vice Mayor Joseph Neri, former Mayor Paeng

WELCOME AND OPENING ADDRESS done by Vice Mayor Joseph Neri.

(2nd L-R) Former Mayor Rafael C. Rizalda with Col. Librada, BatCom of 5th Mech. Battalion, PA.

Former Mayor Rafael C. Rizalda with SB officials and Col. Librada.

Barangay officials pose with LGU officials.

Barangay Captains and Kagawads in 13 barangays of Maigo, Lanao del Norte.

Barangay officials in 13 barangays of Maigo, Lanao del Norte.

Garcia several decades ago. During that time many skilled workers from Luzon and Visayas who had come in Mindanao that were welcomed by the prominent Muslim and Lumad leaders, even gave them big piece of lands and allow them got married with their women in the achievement of unity among all the tribes as they helped the development of Mindanao. One time there were

lowed among the tribes in order to have unity among themselves and attend Peace, SB Frago explained. MLGOO Cyrus Olavides gave his piece and said that he is impressed to our LGU Maigo leaders’ hard works that they have overcome the Pandemic and all other problems they encountered for the period. Also, he recognized the full support, unity and oneness of all the people, the

much thankful to the full support of all the people of Maigo to her Administration! On the other hand, former Mayor Rafael “Paeng” Rizalda gave his Message, he extended his thanks to the support of all the Barangay officials and all people of Maigo. Also, he recognized all the Speakers, SB members, all the department heads, the military, PNP, BFP, all the employees, visitors and all others.

ated by virtue of PD 332 signed by then President Gacia. Now, the MSU Maigo has an expansion for the creation of Agricultural School and the LGU Maigo will provide land for the establishment of said school expansion for the youth, he said. All the people in Maigo must unite and to achieve Peace and Development. The Maigo Leaders first thing to do is to address and make so-

With our loan in bank, it will be poured to our town projects for Maigo’s development, and its monthly amortization will be charged from our 20% development funds, he explained its importance. New development, the DepEd Division office will be transferred to Maigo, to include Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) office and 8th Judicial Court will be transferred in Maigo. Those mentioned offices will give big opportunity to

Rizalda. He also thanks the SB members, Army’s 5th Inf Battln, PNP, BFP, Barangay officials, department heads and wish them Happy 63rd Araw ng Maigo! SB Semacas have reminded all the people to always follow the health protocols by regular handwashing, use of face masks and observe social distancing. God Bless! The EMCEE is Karen Gay Patria-Dy, PhD did for the successful in handling this special event.