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Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

NEWSWEEKLY

PHILIPPINES’ FIRST MUSLIM DIGITAL NEWSPAPER FOUNDED JUNE 2020

SPECIAL FEATURE:

GRAND MOSQUE: This Grand Mosque or masjid was built and funded with millions of dollars by the King of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the 29th and current Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan of Brunei. “This Grand Masjid is your peaceful and serene refuge, according to the late Maguindanao Rep. Didagen Dilangalen,” the former overseer and keeper of the Grand Masjid in Barangay Kalanangan 2, Cotabato City.

Shown here is an old file photo of the Muslims of Cotabato City participating in a congregational prayer on Eid’l Fitr Day. PHOTO BY JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Ramadan 2022 starts April 2

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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he glint of a crescent moon in the twilight sky of Friday, April 1, 2022 (or the eve of Saturday in the Hijra calendar 1443) will beckon the world’s more than a billion Muslims that the holy month of Ramadan has begun even as many Islamic scholars think the first day of the fast will most likely fall on Saturday, April 2, considering that scientific calculations reveal the new moon will appear after noontime on Friday.

(Full story on Page A2)

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL and ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL

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“We will win if we work together; the infections are going down, we pray it will continue,” Abas said in the vernacular.

The two new cases were from Maguindanao and Cotabato City, while zero cases were listed in Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.

OTABATO CITY – Covid-19 infections have been going down steadily in the Bangsamoro region in the past two months, according to the region’s Ministry of Health (MOH).

Dr. Zul Qarnayn Abas, MOH OIC minister, said in a news conference on Tuesday, that only two persons have contracted the virus as of Monday night and are now isolated.

A3 BANGSAMORO REGION

A7 NATIONAL

BARMM commemorates PDP-Laban candidates 54th year of Jabidah back NPC’s stand vs.

Massacre in Corregidor Comelec-Rappler deal Bangsamoro Government, through the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS), led the 54th commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre on March 18, at the Mindanao Garden of Peace in Corregidor Island, Cavite.

The National Press Club (NPC), the country’s oldest media organization, is not alone in its fight against a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and news website Rappler Inc.

Royal Malaysian Armed Forces int’l monitoring team feted during an exit call with WestMinCom

A8 FOREIGN NEWS

Abas said there are four new recoveries and the number of active cases in the region is at 17.

To date, BARMM has 19,726 confirmed cases while 19,023 have recovered. The death toll stood at 686.

(See related story on Page A3)

Feature

Saudi forces heavily deployed to Qatif after executions Social media users have reported heavy deployment of Saudi security forces in the city of Qatif to crush any protest against the recent execution of scores of dissidents.

The International Monitoring Team-16 (IMT-16) headed by a two-star general of the Royal Malaysian Armed Forces made an exit call before the commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom).

They were feted in a ceremony held here recently in grateful recognition for the team’s invaluable contributions to WestMinCom from April 10, 2021, to April 10, 2022.

My Legal Point

by Atty. Bayan G. Balt

New COMELEC Chair and the qualities of A4 a leader

ROYAL | A5

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

A2

Front Headlines

Palace condemns slay of Lanao Norte news anchor

By PMT NEWS DESK

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ANILA – Malacañang has strongly condemned the killing of Audrey Gaid Estrada, a news anchor for 101.3 Grace Covenant FM, who was stabbed to death inside her home in Poblacion Bacolod, Lanao del Norte on Thursday morning.

“The government condemns in the strongest possible terms the killing of radio broadcaster Audrey Estrada, Undersecretary Jose Joel Sy Egco, Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), said in a statement Friday.

“We send our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and colleagues of Ms. Estrada. Rest assured that this government will not rest until the perpetrator of this heinous crime is brought to justice,” the Palace official added.

Egco said that he is now in close coordination with investigators of the Bacolod Municipal Police Station (MPS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and its Media Security Vanguard, and has instructed them to thoroughly and swiftly investigate the killing.

Reports submitted to the Task Force by Maj. Mohammad Doro, officer-in-charge of Bacolod MPS, and Master Sgt. Junas Repayo, IOC, revealed that Estrada was already dead when she was found inside her room.

According to the police, the victim incurred a total of 15 stab wounds on different parts of her body leading to her death. A 13-inch long kitchen knife was recovered near the crime scene which investigators believed to be the weapon used in the murder.

The PNP, one of the member agencies composing the PTFoMS, is now conducting follow-up operations to identify and apprehend the suspect. The local government of Bacolod is reported to be offering a reward to anybody who can give information that will lead to the arrest of the suspect.

Egco also said that he has already ordered the local Media Security Vanguard, Lt. Col. Michelle Olaivar, public information officer (PIO) of Police Regional Office (PRO) 10, to directly coordinate with PTFoMS’ Special Agents on the killing.

Based on the evidence so far culled by investigators, Olaivar believes that the incident is not related to the victim’s work as a radio announcer.

Media Security Vanguards are PTFoMS Focal Persons composed of PNP’s Public Information Officers and serve as the “first line of defense” of journalists all over the country as they will be the first to receive and respond to all threats leveled against any media worker.

“We took this initiative for the designation of PNP officers as Media Vanguards as part of our proactive efforts to ensure the safety of media workers, especially during this critical period in Philippine history,” Egco pointed out, adding that “In order to safeguard our much-cherished press freedom, we owe it to the Filipino people to put a stop to all perpetrators of violence against media workers.”

The Philippines is believed to be the first country in the world to establish a government body devoted exclusively to media security.

On October 11, 2016, President Rodrigo Duterte created PTFoMS by virtue of Administrative Order No. 1 to establish an inter-agency task force with the goal of protecting the life, liberty, and security of media workers.

Agencies similar to PTFoMS have now been set up by other countries in the world to protect journalists, according to the 2021-2022 “World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development Global Report” released recently by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (PR)

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

SPECIAL FEATURE:

Ramadan 2022 starts April 2

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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ANILA — The glint of a crescent moon in Friday’s twilight sky (or the eve of Saturday in the Hijra calendar) will beckon the world’s more than a billion Muslims that the holy month of Ramadan has begun even as many Islamic scholars Every 29th day of the month is moonsighting day to determine the current month is 29 days or 30 days.

Aleem Said Ahmad Basher, a graduate of the College of Islamic Propagation from the Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, in an interview with The Philippine Muslim Today, said the first day of Ramadan will most likely be on April 2, equivalent to Ramadan 1,1443. The last day of fasting will be on Sunday, May 1, 2022 equivalent to the last day of Ramadan or Ramadan 30, 1443.

May 2, 2022 (Shawwal 1, 1443) is the Eid’l Fitr day that falls on Monday where Muslims perform their congregational prayer in the masjid (mosque).

Aleem Basher, also the chairman of the Imam Council of the Philippines and the Integrated Movement Access on Moonsighting (IMAM), added the new moon signals to Muslims all over the world that they can already start their first day of fasting.

According to him, it is not absolutely necessary for each and every locality to sight its own moon; rather, if the moon is sighted in one region and the others have received the information in time for them to act upon the same, they can start fasting.

He cited that Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) was believed to have said: “Fast when the moon is sighted, and break your fast when the moon is sighted. If the skies are cloudy, and you are unable to sight it, then complete 30 days of Sha’ban and fast the next day.”

Aleem Basher said members of the Muslim community should be united in this regard and the imam of the masjid (mosque) should observe unity in the beginning and ending of the fasting.

Hence, every Muslim should step forward toward unity even in some rituals and acts of worship.

He said it is now very clear that April 2 is the first day of fasting in this month of Ramadan.

According to him, by

April 1 moonset by 6:14 p.m. and sunset at 6:08 p.m. and new moon is at 10:30 a.m. April 1 moon will not be seen so “we have to complete the month of Sha’ban for 30 days as according to ‘Hadith’ Prophet Muhammad, the New Moon is not seen, then complete it to 30 days.”

In most Arab countries and other Muslim nations in Southeast Asia, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, including the Philippines, which has a Muslim minority, the first day of the fast takes place while the faithful are still under a state of pandemic being Alert Level 1 because of the Covid19 or coronavirus disease that started in 2019.

“Ramadan, which is the 9th month of the Muslim calendar, is a golden chance to purify our hearts and unite our efforts,” Aleem Basher said.

Aleem Basher said members of the Muslim community should be united in this regard and Imam of the masjid (mosque) should observe unity in the beginning and ending of the fasting.

The Al-Azhar scholar explained that proper fasting means more than abstinence from food and drink and sexual activity from dawn to sunset but it also means abstinence from slander, backbiting and ill conduct.

This explains why the reward God gives for proper fasting is so generous, he said, also citing the hadith qudsi (divine hadith), Prophet Muhammad quotes God as saying: “All actions done by a human being are his own except fasting, which belongs to

think the first day of the fast will most likely fall on Saturday, April 2, considering that scientific calculations reveal the new moon will appear after noontime on Friday.

Me and I reward it accordingly.”

“Perfection of fasting can be achieved through restraint of one’s feelings and emotions,” Aleem Basher said.

“This high standard of self-restraint fits in well with fasting, which is, in essence, an act of selfdiscipline. Islam requires Muslims to couple patience with voluntary abstention from indulgence in physical desire. This is indeed the purpose of fasting,” he added.

Grand Mufti of Region 9 and Palawan Ustadz Abdulbaki Abubakar, the grand mufti of Zamboanga Peninsula (Region 9) and Palawan and also head of Darul Ifta, the Juris Consult being highest religious authority in the Philippines, has announced that the first day of fasting on the month of Ramadan starts on April 2 and ending at sundown on May 2. He said they are all set to conduct the moon sighting on April 1.

The New Moon will appear on 2:24pm instead of 10:30am.

Hence, as fasting officially began on April 2, the one-month period for Muslims to observe fasting will end on May 2, Ustadz Abdulbaki said.

April 30 is 29th day of Ramadhan moonsighting day moonset 5:47pm sunset 6:13 newmoon on First of MAY at 4:28am.

So 2nd day of MAY is Eid’l Fitr.

Holy month For Muslims, Ramadan is the month in which the first verses of the Qur’an, Islam’s holy book, were revealed to Prophet

Muhammad more than 1,400 years ago.

The fast is intended to bring the faithful closer to God and to remind them of the suffering of the less fortunate.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, along with the Muslim declaration of faith, daily prayer, charity and performing the Hajj (pilgrimage) to Makkah (Mecca) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Ramadan and Covid19 The age-old advice given more than 1,400 years ago by Islam’s Prophet Muhammad has gone viral in 2020, as the world wrestles with the coronavirus outbreak.

Hence, Muslim Filipinos are set to still observe fasting during the whole month even under the Covid-19 pandemic.

Disinfection activities were conducted outside the Hassanal Bolkiah Grand Masjid in Barangay Kalanangan 2 in Cotabato City as well as at the Golden Mosque compound in Quiapo, Manila, and other masjids in the Philippines.

Also, health protocols, such as physical distancing, are strictly to be observed during the monthlong Ramadan.

1st day of Ramadan on April 2.

Ustadz Abdulbaki Abubakar said the first day of moon sighting should be held in the afternoon of April 1, 2022, few minutes after sunset around 8 p.m.

If the moon is sighted, he added, First Day of Fasting can be started the following day, April 2.

If the moon is not sighted in the afternoon of April 1, then in all probability, the First Day of Fasting should commence on April 2. 2022, Thus if by the time the moon cannot be seen by 10:30 a.m. of April 1.

Muslims have to complete the month of Sha’ban for 30 days, according to the Hadith where Prophet Muhammad emphasized if still the moon cannot be seen.

On April 1, the moon can be seen in almost the whole world.

(JIJ)

BARMM News

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

A3

Ex-Cotabato city police chief slain, BARMM advises those unvaccinated to get their jabs escort wounded in gun attack as COVID-19 cases in BARMM continue to drop

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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OTABATO CITY – This city’s former police director-turned- public safety office head was killed while his escort was wounded

when armed men attacked them along a busy street junction here on Saturday morning, March 19.

published reports said.

Responding investigators recovered at the crime scene spent shells from .45 caliber pistols.

Balquin was one of invited guests in the new business firm opened along corner Sinsuat and Macapagal streets, one of the city’s busiest road sections here, witnesses said.

Before his retirement from police service and appointment as head of the city government’s public safety office a few years ago, Balquin had

cerned quarters had credited Balquin’s services in the city hall’s campaign to make the city “investment friendly,” it was learned.

In a statement, City Mayor Cynthia GuianiSayadi strongly condemned the killing of Balquin, who she described as a trusted friend and subordinate.

“We may lay Colonel Balquin to rest but we will not rest until you are captured…To all our fellow

Retired police colonel Rolen Balquin and his escort, Master Sergeant Ariel Gutang, had just alighted from their car in front of a newly-opened commercial establishment here around 9:00 a.m. when two armed men approached, opened fire and fled casually, according to initial investigations.

Both victims were rushed to a hospital. But Balquin was declared dead-on-arrival due to fatal wounds in the head and torso, while Gutang was in critical condition,

Slain Retired police colonel Rolen Balquin. served as city police director until June 2015. He belonged to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1987.

The local business sector and other con-

EX-COTABATO | A10

BARMM commemorates 54th year of Jabidah Massacre in Corregidor

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ANILA — Bangsamoro Government, through the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS), led the 54th commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre on March 18, at the Mindanao Garden of Peace in Corregidor Island, Cavite.

BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim said the Jabidah narrative “would become the seeds of the modern Bangsamoro struggle.”

“The BARMM government and the entire Bangsamoro will continue to commemorate the sacrifices of the Bangsamoro martyrs,” Ebrahim said in his speech read by MPOS

Minister Hussein Muñoz during the activity.

“We will take its lessons to a new facet of promising stories of peacebuilding and socioeconomic development to the Bangsamoro so the tragic losses from the pasts will never happen again. This is our commitment towards justice and reconciliation,” Ebrahim added.

Meanwhile, Muñoz said the commemoration is a form of recognition to the despairs experienced by the Bangsamoro.

“It is an initiative towards healing the past, reconciliation, and unity of all the peoples in the

country,” he said.

For Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC) Chairman Marjanie Macasalong, the Jabidah Massacre is a unifying factor for the Bangsamoro “to rectify the historical injustices committed against the Moro people.”

“We are committed to continue the Bangsamoro struggle for the selfdetermination albeit in different battlefield [development],” said Macasalong.

The commemoration of the Jabidah Massacre is in line with the Proclamation No. 0001, series of 2021, issued by Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim,

declaring every March of the year as “Bangsamoro History Month” in the region.

This year’s Bangsamoro History Month bears the theme “Strengthening BARMM through the lessons of the past and the promises of the future.”

It highlights the long history of the Bangsamoro and some of its most unforgettable chapters, including the Bud Dajo Massacre, the Jabidah Massacre, the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the inauguration of BARMM, and inaugural session of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, among others.

Majid Nur /BIO

Bangsamoro lawmaker pushes for a Water Resources Board COTABATO CITY — A Bangsamoro lawmaker filed a bill aimed at promoting clean water, including safe drinking water while preserving and restoring water resources through an effective water quality management system.

Bangsamoro Transition Authority Bill No. 176, also known as the Safe Drinking Water Act of 2022, principally authored

by Member of the Parliament Amilbahar Mawallil, is intended to protect human health, prevent drinking water health hazards, and protect, preserve, and revive the quality of fresh, brackish, and marine waters in the region.

“Decades of armed conflict and government neglect have made ac-

cess to clean water in the region a luxury,” said MP Mawallil.

He added that the establishment of BARMM presents an opportunity to correct the decades of the inaction of the government to address this perennial problem and lauded the Bangsamoro government’s distribution of desalination machines in the island provinces, which convert marine water to freshwater.

Under the proposed bill, the Bangsamoro Water Resources Board will be created to formulate policies and coordinate programs related to the water sector in the region.

Among others, the Board will be the main body that will formulate policies and plans, coordi-

nate the planning, monitoring, and evaluation of programs, and regulate the utilization and allocation of water resources in the region.

“It is imperative that we, as members of the BTA, institutionalize mechanisms to ensure that our water resources are not only preserved but are restored even as we pursue economic development for our region,” said MP Mawallil.

In the proposed measure, a comprehensive Bangsamoro Water Quality Management System will be developed to guide the BWRB in managing the designated Water Quality Management Areas.

The Public Works Ministry will also be tasked to

coordinate with the Board and the local government units to prepare regional and local programs on sewerage and septage management.

Also in the proposed measure is implementing a wastewater charge system through collecting a fee based on a payment for discharging wastewater into the water bodies, including Lake Lanao.

Rewards, monetary or otherwise, will also be provided to individuals, private organizations, and entities that have undertaken outstanding and innovative projects, technologies, processes, and techniques or activities in water quality management.

JULMUNIR I JANNARAL

MOH-BARMM OFFICIALS; The officials of the Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOH-BARMM) announced to the public in a press conference about the pandemic status. At left is MOH Director General Ameril Usman, while at right is OIC-MOH Dr. Zul Qarnyn Abas saying that COVID-19 cases in BARMM continue to drop; only 18 active cases as of March 23, while advising unvaccinated to have it since it is halal and free. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

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OTABATO CITY — As Covid-19 cases in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) continued to drop with only 18 active cases as of March 23, the Ministry of Health (MOH) advised those unvaccinated to get vaccinated since vaccine really works against Covid-19, and “it is safe, halal and free.”

On Thursday, MOH Director General Ameril USMAN also reiterated that fake news claiming vaccines can cause one’s death or turn an individual into a zombie are baseless since majority of the world’s population are already vaccinated.

Of the total cases, 7 are from Maguindanao, 4 from Cotabato City, 7 from Lanao del Sur including Marawi City, and none from the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

MOH OIC-Minister Dr. Zul Qarneyn Abas said: “Since the outbreak of covid-19 pandemic, the region recorded a total cases of 19,726, with 19,023 or 96.4% total recovery and had 686 or 3.5% total death.”

Abas further stressed that vaccination activities in the region will continue even during the month of Ramadan this coming April as the Bangsamoro Darul Ifta stated in its fatwa (sermon) that vaccines will not nullify or void the observance of fasting.

Meanwhile, MOH Director General Usman also urged those who are not yet vaccinated to get their COVID-19 shots, and reminded the public not to be complacent with the region being classified under Alert Level 2.

Under this level, establishments are allowed to operate at a maximum of 50% indoor venue capacity for fully vaccinated individuals and those below 18 years of age, even if unvaccinated, and 70% outdoor venue capacity.

“We are still far away from 80% vaccination rate of becoming a herd immunity in the region. The cooperation of the general public and all sectors in the government including our media friends will play a crucial role in increasing the almost 27% or more than 900,000 total number of region’s population currently vaccinated compared to 3.5 million target population,” said Dr. Usman.

“MOH always stands firmly that vaccine really works against Covid-19, it is safe, halal and free,” added Usman, reiterating that fake news claiming vaccines can cause one’s death or turn an individual into a zombie are baseless since majority of the world’s population are already vaccinated.

JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

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A4

Opinion

New COMELEC Chair and the qualities of a leader

My Legal Point

by Atty. Bayan G. Balt

O

fficials of the Bangsamoro autonomous region have denied earlier report that the region’s leadership of the Bangsamoro autonomous government who is also chairman of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) as well as its political party United Bangsamoro for Justice Party (UBJP) endorsed the candidacy for president of Manila Mayor Isko Moreno in his recent campaign sortie in Maguindanao.

Never in the history of our country a Maranao leader was appointed Chairman of the powerful Commission on Elections, a constitutional office whose decisions is appealable only to the Supreme Court. Pres. Duterte in his talk to the nation the other day justified his selection of Saidamen B. Pangarungan as new COMELEC chair, simply he has all the qualities of a good leader.

I remember the new COMELEC chair, as we fondly called him “Gob.” started his political career as an opposition against the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan Party (KBL) was elected Assemblyman in the 1979 former Sanguniang Pampook (defunct Regional legislative Assembly). After he lost in that elections, he told me “We will appeal to the Commission on Elections”. He is a person who never easily give up his right, he was correct, the COMELEC en banc nullified his opponent’s proclamation and ultimately won and proclaimed as winner in that election.

From 1982-1986, he was the vice president of the unified PDPLaban or Pilipino Democratic Party Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban).

After the 1986 EDSA revolution, he was appointed by Pres. Cory Aquino as OIC provincial Governor of Lanao del Sur replacing governor Mohamad Ali Dimaporo, a powerful ally of then President Ferdinand Marcos during the martial law regime. A challenge to his administration was the kidnapping of 12 Carmelite nuns from their Marawi hilltop convent by lawless group of men. From the Vatican, Pope John Paul II appealed to their captors to release the nuns who were later brought to Lumbayanague across south of Lake Lanao. After two weeks of continued search, Pangarungan led government security forces and encircled the kidnappers’ holdout. Under heavy pressure, the outnumbered kidnappers were forced to release all the nuns, safe and unharmed.

In 1987, he was elected Governor. As provincial executive of Lanao del Sur, he built several infra. projects for the first time such as the new provincial Capitol, the new Gymnasium, the People’s Park, sport arena, likewise he also concreted 110 kilometers of two major road networks: the Lake Lanao circumferential road and the Marawi-Malabang Road and constructed several farms to market roads. His four (4) year stint as provincial Governor was the golden era of the province’s infrastructures, growth and economic recovery. His work bear fruits as the Department of Finance (DOF) and Interior Local government later (DILG) upgraded Lanao del Sur from 5th class province to 2nd class province. During his watch the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) of the province was only P850,000 a month compared to the P160 million monthly at 2017 figures. During Pangarungan’s watch, the province was drug -free because of his staunch campaign against illegal drugs trade.

Under his governorship, Lanao del Sur and its capital was much peaceful, with no recorded firefights or skirmishes between government and rebel forces. Pangarungan was awarded thrice as one of the “Most Outstanding Governors of the Philippines” in three consecutive years: 1989, 1990 and 1991.

Scholastic records.

Pangarungan was a consistent scholar from elementary as valedictorian, He finished his Liberal Arts degree in 1971 and Law in 1976 at the San Beda College an NISGP consistent scholar. He passed the Philippine bar examinations on the same year with a weighted average of 85.6%.

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Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

Of Dates and Ramadan!

T

his is not referred to as the date of Ramadan. Many Aleem projected that the date of Batanes to Tawi-Tawi the 1st day of Ramadan will most likely start on Saturday, April 2, 2022.

Julmunir i. Jannaral But the Dates I am referring to here are the Dates considered as the Staple food in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During my 1st Hajj and 2nd Hajj as well, I ed in the Arabian Gulf for thousands of years. frequented the Mall known as Bin Daud just in For example, Prophet Muhammad once said: front of the Masjidil Haram. My frequent visit to “Break your fast by eating dates as it is purifythe grocery of this Mall is to buy the 1st Class ing.” However, it is not mandatory to break the Dates which are dry and with Almond fast with dates, as in another Hadith the Prophet too. Unlike the Dates being distributed for Free said: “If you have a date, break your fast with it. If by the Saudi Embassy in Makati it is not dry or you don’t have it, break the fast with water as it is not Export Quality. However no matter it is wet purifying.” or dry still the Filipino Muslims in time of RamaThere are many health benefits associated dan are very much thankful to the Saudi Am- with eating dates, especially during Ramadan. bassador for giving these They are rich in natural sugesearchers at King Saud ars and so raise blood sugar dates for free.

However in last year University in Riyadh levels almost immediately Ramadan in the year of the found evidence that the Ajwa after fasting, helping to reHegira 1442 or year 2021, balance the body’s systems. date from Madinah contains many Muslim Filipinos are The high carbohydrate conexpecting that National active elements useful in the tent slows the digestion proCommission on Muslim Fili- prevention of diseases such cess, leaving you feeling pinos (NCMF) where the fuller for longer. It is advisaas cancer, and has anti- ble to have soup or salad Saudi Ambassador used to course through the Free inflammatory properties sim- after the dates to help your Dates they are giving to the ilar to those of drugs such as body get started again after Filipino Muslims many usual fasting, and it is best if you ibuprofen and aspirin. recipients whoever is the wait for at least 20 minutes NCMF Secretary they stand to receive at least a before having your main meal. package of the Dates.

Fasting can cause mild health issues such as However, during the time of former NCMF headaches, and low blood sugar.

Secretary Saidamen Pangarungan, many kept According to medical research to help minion waiting until the last day of Ramadan think- mize the problems, it is a good idea to carefully ing they can received the Free Dates. However plan and monitor your eating habits when fasting No Dates and not a single seed was distributed. for the day.

However it ended inside a bodega or wareDates are an excellent source of important house of the NCMF. When I asked how come it nutrients such as fiber, sugar, magnesium, powas just kept in the bodega, the answer it was tassium and carbohydrates, so taking advantage upon the order of the Head of NCMF General of the benefits of the fruit during Ramadan is Services. very important.

In my case, when I realized that it would be Dr. Hassan Mehdi, a doctor at a clinic in Riimpossible for me to receive even a small pack- yadh, said that as well as providing muchage of Dates, we call our Saudi friends in Ri- needed minerals and energy to help you stay fit yadh to send us a package of Dates. Alham- and healthy, dates prepare the stomach to redulillah it was still during the time of Ramadan ceive food after being inactive due to fasting by when the package arrived in our residence. activating the release of digestive juices.

Medical research has found out that fastDate palms are now grown extensively ing can cause mild health issues such as head- around the world. There are many varieties, with aches, and low blood sugar.

Amir Hajj, Saidy, Khadrawy and Medjool dates On the other hand, medical research has some of the finest, known for their rich flavors found out also eating dates after fasting has and superior quality. great nutritional and health benefits.

The Ajwah variety, however, has particular That’s why as I have said Dates are a staple religious and medicinal significance. The Prophet food in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, said: “Ajwah dates are from Paradise.” both in their own right and as a common ingreResearchers at King Saud University in Ridient in local dishes. yadh found evidence that the Ajwa date from In particular, they form an important part of Madinah contains active elements useful in the the diet of Muslims during Ramadan, when they prevention of diseases such as cancer, and has are traditionally eaten every evening to break anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of the fast. drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the secondThe study, published in the US-based Journal largest producer of dates in the world. The UN for Agriculture and Food Chemistry, also found World Food Program (WFP) and 30 countries that dates contain many flavonoid glycosides, around the world will this year receive 7,000 which have anti-oxidant properties. tons of dates donated by the King Salman HuThe inhibition rate in Ajwa dates is equal to manitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) in commercial anti-oxidant supplements. Another Riyadh. benefit is that the sugars in Ajwa dates are monThis was announced recently by Dr. Abdul- osaccharides, which makes them suitable for lah Al-Rabeeah, supervisor general of KSRelief, people with Type 2 diabetes. They also contain as part of a government aid program. folic acid, sulfur, protein, copper, iron, fiber and “The aid includes 4,000 tons of dates donat- potassium. ed to the WFP, and another 3,000 tons will be Seven Ajwa dates have about 120 calories. sent to more than 30 countries,” he said.

People who eat five to seven every day have In the Islamic tradition, dates are the food been found to be less susceptible to carcinoma Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ate and circulatory diseases. when he broke his fast. The date palm, called Around 300 varieties of dates are found in “nakhl” in Arabic, and the fruit, called “tamr,” are Saudi Arabia. Of the total production of dates, mentioned more than any other fruit-bearing only about 6.8 percent is exported. plant in the Qur’an, and are symbols closely ——————associated with Islam and Muslims.

For your Comments or Suggestions, please According to some Islamic scholars there send an email to: julmunir1845@gmail.com. You are several Prophetic traditions asserting the may call or send text message to Cellphone significance of the fruit, which has been cultivat- No. +639778430218.

R

News/Opinion

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

Civic Action:

Troops seek aid to repair Sulu Mosque

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Treatment of Prisoners of War in Islam and Conventional International law (Part 2)

By ALAN AMANTIAD

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AMBOANGA CITY – The Philippine Army’s 6th Special Forces Company (6SFC) is seeking the assistance of donors for the repair of Masjid Maas (old mosque) which was constructed in 2019 in SiThe mosque sits on the foot of Mount Sinumaan, a remote area, where light materials can be used for its structure.

“This initiative forms part of 6SFC’s efforts on preventing violent extremism by strengthening vulnerable institutions that could easily be exploited by threat groups,” Villarosa said.

“The rehabilitated mosque will serve as a conducive venue to preach peace under the teachings of Islam,” he added.

The repairs would cost around PHP60,000, which will cover the procurement of a sound system and complimenting solar panel set, repair of walls, and concreting of floors.

The mosque currently has compacted soil as the floor used for praying.

“As Ramadhan nears, we are looking forward to rehabilitating the mosque for a more conducive praying environment,”

tio Banglot, Barangay Upper Sinumaan, Talipao, Capt. Ron Villarosa, the 6SFC commander said in a statement that this will help prevent violent extremism in a remote village in Talipao, Sulu.

MASJID MAAS. The Army’s 6th Special Forces Company (6SFC) on Friday (March 25, 2022) seeks donors to fund the repair of the only mosque in remote Barangay Upper Sinumaan in Talipao town, Sulu to prevent violent extremism in the area. The areas surrounding the mosque was used as a sanctuary by the Abu Sayyaf Group six months ago but villagers have since rejected the presence of the terrorists in their community. (Photo courtesy of Capt.

Ron Villarosa, 6SFC commander) Villarosa said.

This year’s Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, introspection, and prayer for Muslims, is set to start on April 1.

Six months ago, Villarosa said the vicinity of Masjid Maas was used

by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits as a sanctuary.

Through intensified mass base operations and community support programs launched by the 6SFC, the ASG has since been denied popular sup-

port from the community.

“This, in effect, shaped the operational environment in favor of government forces,” Villarosa said.

“Let us help our Tausug brothers and sisters,” he added. (With PNA)

ROYAL | Page A1

Royal Malaysian Armed Forces int’l monitoring team feted during an exit call with WestMinCom A Military Civic Action Medal was awarded to Maj. Gen. Datuk Hamdan Bin Hj Ismail, IMT-16 Head of Mission, and the members of the team.

This was in recognition of their meritorious achievements while serving as personnel of the IMT-16 and ADHOC Joint Action Group Team-3 who rendered indirect support to the implementation of the peace agreement between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

A photo slate and a memento were also awarded to Maj. Gen. Hamdan.

Aside from Maj. Gen. Hamdan, other awardees include Col. Sukiman Bin Mohamed Ghani of the Malaysian Army; Lt. Col. Mohd Fakaruddin Zuraidi Bin Ramli of the Royal Brunei Army; Commander Rosnan Bin Isenin of the Royal Malaysian Navy; Deputy Superintendent Saiful Adli Bin Hashim of Royal Malaysian Police; Captain Mohd Asyraf Bin Noor Azan of the Malaysian Army, and Mr. Johan Arief Bin Mohmad Jaafar of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia.

During their deployment to the Philippines, the IMT16 monitored the security aspect, socio-economic assistance, and civilian protection component of the GPH and MILF Peace Agreement.

They conducted field verification and validation of the reported ceasefire-related violations. They also monitored the implementation of the development projects initiated by the Philippine Government and donor countries in the Bangsamoro region.

The team conducted numerous advocacies and focused discussions in different AFP brigades and divisions on the ceasefire mechanisms. They also conducted medical missions, in partnership with the Bureau of Quarantine and Department of Health, in the MILF areas in Datu Tumangong, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province, and Dinas, Zamboanga del

Sur. In his message, WestMinCom commander Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. expressed his appreciation to the members of the IMT-16 for the help and cooperation that contributed to the attainment of the security and development goals of the GPH and the MILF. “As foreign military observers, you, our friends from Malaysia and Brunei, worked behind the scene to monitor the implementation of the peace process that effected numerous gains in the Philippine Government’s pursuit of peace and growth, particularly in the Bangsamoro region,” Lt. Gen. Rosario stated.

Brig. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Deputy Commander for Administration; Col. Elmer Suderio, Chief of Unified Command Staff; and other officers of the command joined Lt. Gen. Rosario in welcoming the distinguished visitors during the exit call of the Head of Mission and members of the IMT-16.

JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

MILITARY HONOR: A military honor was accorded to Maj. Gen. Datuk Hamdan Bin Hj Ismail, of the Royal Malaysian Armed Forces and Head of Mission, IMT-16 during his exit call on Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., WestMinCom commander. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Notes and Reflections Dean Macacuna A. Moslem

(From last issue) 4. Officers may in no circumstances be compelled to work but may ask for suitable works; 5. Prisoners of war cannot be compelled to serve in the hostile forces (forcing POWs to serve in this hostile forces is a serious breach of the convention); 6. Prisoners of war must be granted the right to contact their families; 7. The basic daily food rations shall be sufficiently rich in quality and variety to keep the POWs in good health; 8. Clothing and footwear shall be supplied to the prisoners of war detaining power in sufficient quantity taking into the climate condition of the place of their detention; 9. Once a prisoner of war is captured, wounded or sick, he should not be left on the field without medical attention and must be provided with all necessary care; 10. Members Of the enemy medical personnel are exempt from capture and are to be used for the care of the captured wounded and sick, while shipwrecked members of armed forces may be captured provided they are fit to be moved to the enemy warship and can Provide adequate medical facilities; 11. Escaped prisoners who rejoin their own forces and are recaptured cannot be punished.

12. The seriously sick prisoners of war are bound to be sent back to their own country after they are found fit to travel. No sick or injured prisoner is to be repatriated to his country against his will, and no repatriated person is to be employed in active military service.

In addition to the foregoing, the Geneva Convention Ill also regulates the activities of information bureau and relief societies for prisoners of war including the crucial role of the most important international non -governmental organization, the Geneva based International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The Convention also imposes a duty to the detaining power to release and repatriate prisoners of war without delay after the cessation of active hostilities and not, like the 1929 Convention, after the conclusion of peace. Sick and wounded prisoners of war must be repatriated earlier.

Convention I also requires an honorable interment of the dead and the registration and protection of grave sites.

TREATMENT OF PRISONERS OF WAR UNDER ISLAMIC INTERNATIONAL LAW The Muslims are enjoined to treat the prisoners with justice. To do justice to the prisoners of war is a sacred duty which a believer owes to the Almighty.

Thus, the Holy Qur'an says: "Now enjoy what ye have won, as lawful and good, (i.e. according to equity and justice), and keep your duty to Allah.”

"O Prophet! Say unto those captives, who are in your hands: If Allah knoweth any good in your hearts, he will give you better than which had been taken from you, and will forgive you. " In pursuance to the foregoing verses, the Prophet (peace be upon him), after the captivity of many enemies during the Battle of Badr, made following explicit order: "Take heed of the recommendation to treat the prisoners fairly." Fair treatment of prisoners of war in Islam includes the following: I. During the war or while hostility is still in progress A. To feed every prisoner. The Qur'an says: "If the righteous shall feed with foods the prisoner, for love of Him, (saying): We feed you, for the sake of Allah only; we wish no reward or thanks from you " Thus, MOSLEM| A6

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News

MOSLEM | Page A5

Davao dads declare VP aspirant ‘persona non grata’

Treatment of Prisoners of War in Islam and Conventional International law (Part 2) “Many Muslim soldiers contented themselves with dates and fed the prisoners in their charge with bread. Abu-Yusuf remarks that prisoners must be fed and well treated until a decision is reached regarding them. They are not to be charged for their food, thecost of which is to be borne by the capturing Muslim state.”

B. Prisoners are to be protected from heat and cold, and the like. If they have no clothes, they must be provided, as this practiced by Prophet (peace be upon him); C. The prisoners of war are allowed to execute wills for the properties they own at home as long as they remain captives the hands of Muslims; D. A mother prisoner of war is not to be separated from and her near relatives who are also captives E. The position and dignity of prisoners must be respected; F. Religious beliefs of the prisoners of war must always be respected.

It was narrated that at the time of sending the Muslim army under the command of Usama bin Zayd, Caliph Abu Bakr gave them the following advice: "Do not be treacherous, dishonest, transgressor, nor mutilate the dead, nor kill children, woman or man, nor cut down fruit bearing trees, nor slaughter the cattle belonging to the enemy except for the purpose of food, let alone the prisoners engaged in the service of the places of worship." He also forbade the Muslims from taking into possession, the places of worship for dwelling purpose, or destroy the places of worship' or raze such places or property (belonging to the vanquished people) or to compel them to give up their faith, or torture them in any way. " 2. TREATMENT AFTER THE WAR Under the Islamic International law, there are five alternatives which may be adopted by the Muslim commanders or Head of States in respect of enemy captives made after a war with infidels: A. The prisoners may be gratuitously released.

The Qur'an enjoins the believers to be patient and forgiving and that has commanded persons to be patient and forgiving. It has also been stated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) during the Battle of Badr, has ordered in some instances the gratuitous release of prisoners of war. It was reported that in the Battle of Hunayn, the Prophet (peace be upon him) set free all the prisoners of Hawazin handed over to himself. Consequently, other Muslims followed the Prophet (peace be upon him) and gratuitously released their captives. In case where some of them were not willing to do so, the Prophet (peace be upon him) allowed compensation from the public treasury.

B. Prisoners of war may be released on payment of ransom.

This practice is allowed by the Holy Qur'an. The Prophet (peace be upon him) during his lifetime, in many instances, released prisoners against various kinds of ransom and compensation.

C. Enslavement of prisoners of war is discouraged.

"In spite of the fact that the Muslim law allows the enslavement of some prisoners who are not released either gratuitously or on ransom, the practice of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his rightly guided successors has been in favor of liberating them; the Muslim soldiers have been persuaded to free all the enslaved persons.

It was also reported that caliph Umar issued orders that peasants, artisans and professionals of belligerent countries should not be enslaved. It may not be amiss to state in this connection that the Qur'an exhorts liberation of slaves and commands that the income of Muslim state partly be allotted for the manumission of slaves.”

D. Prisoners of war may be released in exchange with Muslim prisoners E. Prisoners of wars may be repatriated.

A Muslim state is under Obligation to set aside a portion of the income for the release of Muslimprisoners of war in the hands of enemy. The Prophet (peace be upon him), likewise, had declared MOSLEM | A10

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

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AVAO CITY – Vice presidential aspirant Walden Bello is no longer welcome here.

The City Council declared Belo persona non grata during its regular session on Tuesday over his baseless allegation of corruption in the city, which he said he wanted to “cleanse.”

In a resolution, the City Council said Bello imputed that Davao City is the drug center of the south under the control of a member of a Duterte family.

“The City Council denounces the unbecoming character of Walden Bello, particularly his act of employing malicious tirades. Davao City’s exemplary reputation is the hard work not only of the local government but of every honest, disciplined, responsible Dabawenyo.

As we condemn Walden Bello’s acts, we also vehemently declare that he is not welcome to enter the borders, and the entire territorial jurisdiction of Davao City,” the resolution said.

Contrary to Bello’s accusations, the resolution noted that Davao City has received 118 awards and citations in recogni-

BY JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

tion of the initiatives of the local government in various facets of governance and service from 2016 to 2021.

“Davao City, in truth and fact, has become a safer and more developed place with top-notch infrastructure, economic and social programs.

Walden Bello’s publicized malicious statements discredit the efforts and commitment of hardworking city government employees who are behind all the successes and recognitions received by the city,” the resolution added.

Multiple awards, citations The city has also been recognized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) with the Seal of Good Local Governance and the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping over the years.

The National Competitiveness Council and the Department of Trade and Industry named Davao City the 4th Most Competitive Highly Urbanized City in the 2021 Cities and Municipalities Com-

petitiveness Index—the highest ranking of any city outside the National Capital Region.

In May 2018, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry awarded Davao City with

a Special Recognition as one of the Most Peaceful and Safest Cities in Southeast Asia.

In the same year, the Manila Times also recognized Davao City as a Philippine Top Model City and the Safe Haven Award, in recognition of its efforts to maintain peace and order for the good of its constituents.

The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) was recognized as the Best City Police Office for 2017, and in 2020 by the Philippine National Police.

DCPO’s peace and order programs led to a decrease in the city’s total

index crime rate—from 13 in 2016 to 1.9 in 2021.

The Davao City AntiDrug Abuse Council (ADAC) was also commended by DILG during its 2017 ADAC Performance Audit, for its exemplary efforts on the antidrug campaign. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency also awarded the city as an Outstanding Local Government Unit – City Level for its untiring support to the anti-drug campaign in Region 11 in 2019.

“Bello’s persistent attacks will debilitate Davao City’s economic recovery efforts, especially in promoting the city’s tourism and investment opportunities to the local and international scene, and ultimately affect Davao City’s reputable governance to the public in general,” the City Council said.

Known critic Since the start of the election campaign, Bello has been a known critic of fellow vice presidential candidate Sara Duterte.

Bello blasted Mayor Sara for not attending debates, mentioning the city as the “drug center’ of the southern part of the counDAVAO | A10

DPWH activates response teams for flood waters in Lanao Norte, Iligan ILIGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st District Engineering Office in Lanao del Norte had immediately activated its emergency response teams as early as Sunday afternoon, Mar. 6, 2022, to respond to rising flood waters in Kauswagan town, Lanao del Norte and in Iligan City during the recent heavy rainfalls that hit the areas.

The teams composed of personnel from the Maintenance Section responded to flood waters in Barangay Tacub, Kauswagan town and later dispatched in other flood-stricken areas like barangays Buru-un, Fuentes, Mahayahay, Maria Cristina, Suarez, Ubaldo Laya, Tubod, Del Carmen, Sta. Felomina, San Roque, Abuno, Digkilaan, and Rogongon, all in Iligan City.

“We had to control traf-

By ARMAND APOLINARIO

A DPWH back hoe attempts to remove flood debris stuck under the Tubod bridge after flood waters overflowed the bridge at the height of the torrential rains. (Supplied photo) fic flow and help guide motorists to alternative routes since many of our major bridges became impassable. We worked until the following day to ensure that roads and bridges are passable to allow motorists to return to their worried families; and for our security forces and rescue teams to perform their duties”, de-

clared District Engineer Alykhan Ali of DPWH. Among the operations conducted by the emergency-response teams include road clearing, canal and drainage declogging, bridge clean-up and traffic management.

“We are thankful to our support teams for ensuring that our responders are well-fed and well-

equipped to handle the herculean tasks during the widespread natural disasters”, expressed Maintenance Chief Efren Tulod.

The two days of intermittent rain forced hundreds of families to evacuate to safer grounds as communities became flooded in Iligan City.

The state weather bureau earlier issued an advisory about heavy rainfall over Lanao del Norte and the cities of Iligan and Marawi, lasting until the wee hours of Monday due to a lowpressure area.

Coastal towns in Lanao del Norte like Tubod, Kolambugan, Bacolod and Maigo were spared from the severe effects of the LPA. DPWH also provided vehicles to local rescue teams to allow them to reach flood-victims in remote barangays.

News

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

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PDP-Laban candidates back NPC’s stand vs. Comelec-Rappler deal

11th Infantry Brigade marks Army Day on top of historic Bud Dahu in Sulu

MANILA – The National Press Club (NPC), the country’s oldest media organization, is not alone in its fight against a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and news website Rappler Inc. This, after the ruling Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan’s (PDP Laban) senatorial aspirants backed a petition filed by the NPC and two civil society groups, seeking a writ of mandamus from the Supreme Court (SC) to block the Comelec-Rappler deal.

Former presidential legal counsel and spokesperson, Salvador Panelo said the MOA precisely is “an outrageous collusion” between the Comelec and Rappler.

He advised the poll body to admit its blunder and immediately revoke the deal to save it from further embarrassment as the news website is a foreign entity.

“It is (MOA) outrageous because there are reasons why Rappler is said to be the least trusted news organization based on a recent survey,” Panelo said in a news release on Thursday.

Broadcaster and senatorial aspirant Rey Langit, himself a member of the NPC, said the MOA is violative of the Constitution and onerous to the government, adding the poll body should not be bound by one media entity only.

For House Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta, the Comelec’s decision to suspend the MOA is the first step to-

BARANGAY DANAG, Patikul, Sulu — The Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu celebrated the 125th Philippine Army Founding Anniversary and the 116th Anniversary of the Battle of Bud Dahu on top of the historic Bud Dahu in Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu on Tuesday, March 22.

As part of the celebration, troops from the 1101st Infantry Brigade and civilian guests trekked the rugged terrain leading to the peak of Bud Dahu.

In a statement, 1101 Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Eugenio Boquio, who led the troops and the civilians in climbing the peak of Bud Dahu, said that “it is fulfilling to climb the historic mountain in Sulu as we celebrate the very day when the Philippine Army was organized by our forefathers with so much sacrifices and love to our country.”

In his speech, Brig. Gen. Boquio said that “while we celebrate our 125th PH Army anniversary, it is unknown to some people except for the Tausug of Sulu that the Battle of Bud Dahu is probably one of the most gruesome events in our history where 600 Moros (Tausug), including innocent women and children, sacrificed fighting for freedom.”

21st Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Eddie Abolencia narrated that a total of 421 security forces and civilian participants trekked Mount Dahu.

Among the civilian dignitaries who participated in the event was Julkiram Arastam, the Sulu provincial tourism officer.

Arastam said that he is elated by his one of lifetime experience to climb the historic mountain of Sulu. “I’m grateful to our security forces and partner stakeholders for this opportunity to join the trek as we honor and pay tribute to our forefathers,” narrated by Arastam.

“We are all witnesses on how the security landscape in Sulu significantly improved. The Tausugs of Sulu can now go and visit places, beaches, and other tourist spots they want without fear. As the tourism officer of Sulu and in collaboration with other agencies, we will advertise Sulu as now one of the best tourist destinations in southern part of our country,” said the Sulu provincial tourism officer.

Meanwhile, 11th Infantry Division and JTF Sulu Commander Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio expressed his gratitude to the security forces and reassured his commitment in supporting for the local tourism.

“The potential of Sulu to be the next best tourists’ destination is attainable. This momentous event is indicative of our united efforts and our love to our country,” said Maj. Gen. Patrimonio.

“I therefore enjoin you to move in unison as we strive towards the goal of making the province of Sulu a place of lasting peace and sustainable development,” Maj. Gen. Patrimonio added.

The Battle of Bud Dahu is a battle between the Moro Tausugs and the United States Armed Forces on March 5 to 8, 1906, which resulted to the deaths of about 600 Moro (Tausug) individuals, including innocent women and children.

Bud Dahu is the second highest point in the province of Sulu next to Bud Tumantangis: Sulu’s “Crying Mountain.” (JIJ)

WRIT OF MANDAMUS: Officials of the National Press Club, Guardians Brotherhood, and Automated Election System show copies of the petition they filed at the Supreme Court on Wednesday (March 23, 2022), seeking a writ of mandamus to compel the Commission on Election to their constitutional obligation and legal mandate to ensure the conduct of a free, credible, and transparent May 9 elections. Senatorial aspirants from ruling Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan supported the petition. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

wards a more consultative and bigger collaboration with the Filipino people to attain clean and credible elections in 2022.

On Wednesday, the NPC along with the Guardians Brotherhood and Automated Election System (EAS System) filed their petition, seeking a writ of mandamus from the SC to compel the Comelec to implement digital signatures for the May 9 polls, disclose critical information and allow access of political parties, candi-

dates, accredited media and other organizations to the poll body’s processes.

The groups also asked the SC for the Comelec to allow access and inspection of the printing of ballots at the National Printing Office (NPO), including the examination of the ballots already printed without the presence of observers.

(PR)

Ruling on Marcos’ DQ cases may be out April: Comelec

By FERDINAND PATINIO MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc ruling on the disqualification cases filed against presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. may be out late next month, the poll body said on Thursday.

Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said the motions for reconsideration (MRs) filed by the petitioners against the candidacy of the former senator are now being hastened.

“The chairman (Saidamen Pangarungan) is committing number one

before the end of April a decision by the en banc will be forthcoming,” he said in a press briefing.

Garcia admitted that he did not participate in the session that tackled the disqualification cases.

“A decision on the consolidated cases, as well as the case with motions for reconsideration will be decided before the elections…before the end of April,” he said. “The earliest the second week of April, the latest will be the third week of April.”

The Comelec First and Second Divisions previously dismissed a

total of six cases filed against Marcos due to "lack of merit".

The petitioners filed their respective MRs before the Comelec en banc.

Meanwhile, Garcia said presidential bet Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson, who resigned from his political party, Partido Reporma, will not be considered as an independent candidate in the May 9 polls.

"Whatever is your party at the time of the filing of the candidacy stays.

Your CONA (Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance) stays. Whatev-

er changes in your affiliation after the filing of the candidacy, it doesn't matter," Garcia added.

On Thursday, Lacson announced his resignation from the Partido Reporma after his party decided to endorse another presidential candidate.

Partido Reporma president and Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez has endorsed the presidential candidacy of Vice President Leni Robredo despite admitting that Lacson is the “most qualified” to be the next president of the country. (PNA)

By JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL

Soccsksargen region records fewer Covid-19 cases COTABATO CITY – Health authorities have reported more recoveries for Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in region 12 with four of its localities having zero infection.

Formerly known as Central Mindanao, region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and the city of General Santos popularly known as Soccsksargen.

In a report on Tuesday, the Department of Health in Soccsksargen (DOH-12) said Koronadal City and Tacurong City and the provinces of Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato have listed zero Covid-19 infections.

Dr. Aristides Concepcion-Tan, DOH-12 director, noted that the four areas recorded high cases in January and February this year.

Also on Tuesday, DOH-12 recorded 18 new infections in General Santos City and South Cotabato having seven each, while Sarangani and Kidapawan City had one each.

DOH also reported 67 patients who survived Covid-19, while two died — one each from General Santos City and Tampakan, South Cotabato.

Overall, there have been 70,179 Covid-19 cumulative cases in the Soccsksargen, 67,414 recoveries, 181 active cases, and 2,552 fatalities since the pandemic was declared in March 2020. PMT

BUD DAHU MARKER: Officials from the Sulu Provincial Tourism Office and Philippine Army officers jointly unveil the marker of the historic Bud Dahu right on top of the peak of this 2nd highest mountain in Sulu. The marker unveiled also narrated the historical significance of Bud Dahu where more or less 600 Tausug were massacred by the US Armed Forces on March 5-8, 1906. Hence, it became the infamous Bud Dahu Massacre. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

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Foreign News

Saudi forces heavily deployed to Qatif after executions

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ocial media users have reported heavy deployment of Saudi security forces in the city of Qatif to crush any protest against the recent execution of scores of dissidents.

The regime executed as many as 81 prisoners in a single day on Saturday over what it called “terrorrelated offenses,” in the largest mass execution carried out in the kingdom in recent memory. As many as 41 of the victims hailed from Qatif.

The executions have been followed by waves of popular protests, especially in the kingdom’s east. Domestic and regional groupings have been issuing condemnatory statements against the country.

Social media users reported that the kingdom has started summoning some of the families of the victims and threatened them to declare that they were content with the executions or face consequences.

This has, however, not prevented the Eastern Province’s people from seeking to commemorate the victims. Owners of religious centers are reportedly planning various events to mark the memory of those executed.

Local activists have also been publicizing the names and features of the victims amid the kingdom’s reported refusal to hand over the bodies of some of the victims.

Leading Saudi analyst Ali Abbas al-Ahmed has shared a list of protesters and activists executed by the Saudi regime on his twitter page https:// twitter.com/AliAlAhmed_en, with the post going viral.

Saudi security forces in plain clothes have reportedly been deployed across Qatif, preventing the formation of more than two people.

However, the people of Qatif have vowed to take to the streets as soon as they can to protest the brutal execution of innocent people.

In a statement, the Arabian Peninsula Opposition bloc, which is an umbrella for Saudi dissidents, said the 41 executed prisoners, belonged to the peaceful al -Hirak al-Janoubi movement. The bloc of Saudi dissidents called the kingdom’s de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman “nothing more than a murderer, who en-

joys shedding the blood of the innocent,” saying the mass execution was carried out against young people, who had exercised their right to express their opinion and had been imprisoned as a result.

Rights groups condemned the executions, saying “they flew in the face of” claims by bin Salman “that the country was overhauling its justice system and limiting its use of the death penalty.”

“These executions are the opposite of justice,” said Ali Adubusi, the director of the European Saudi Organization for Human Rights, a watchdog group. He said that in many of the cases, the charges against the accused involved “not a drop of blood.”

Iran suspends talks with Saudi Arabia Iran has "temporarily" suspended normalization talks with Saudi Arabia, media reported on Sunday.

The Iranian side has "unilaterally and temporarily" suspended the talks which was slated to be held in Iraq next week..

The report did not specify the reason for the pause or a date for resuming the negotiations.

Following several rounds of talks brokered by Iraq, Iran sent three diplomats to Saudi Arabia in January as a delegation to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to resume their activities in Jeddah after a six-year hiatus.

Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Iran in early 2016 in protest against the attacks on Saudi diplomatic mission in Iran after the Saudi execution of a Shiite cleric.

Source: Press TV

Suicides among Japanese women rise during Covid-19 pandemic ISTANBUL – The suicidal trend among women in Japan during the Covid19 pandemic has escalated, with over 7,000 women taking their lives last year.

According to Health Ministry data released on Tuesday, 7,068 women committed suicide in 2021, marking the second consecutive year that the number of women suicide cases increased.

However, the overall number of suicides in the country saw a slight de-

crease by 74.

“The effect of the coronavirus pandemic appears to manifest in various ways,” an unnamed Health Ministry official told Kyodo News.

The coronavirus outbreak hit the world in December 2019, which negatively affected daily life and severely battered livelihood as governments imposed lockdowns to halt the spread of the deadly infection.

Overall, 21,007 people ended their lives in

Japan, 838 higher than the number of suicides recorded in 2019.

The country of over 126 million people is also grappling with an aging population, accounting for 28.5 percent of its total population.

The Health Ministry said reasons for women's suicides “were the most common,” including family problems such as “marital discord and pessimism about the family's future.”

“Those citing prob-

lems related to economic and life issues increased 29 to 454, with 185 women killing themselves over difficulties making a living,” data showed.

“Among students, 11 elementary school, 148 junior high school and 314 high school students committed suicide in 2021, citing such reasons as mental illness including depression, poor academic performance and discord in relationships with their parents,” the report added. (Anadolu)

EU readies new tough sanctions vs. Russia, Belarus BRUSSELS – Leaders of the European Union (EU) member-states expressed readiness to introduce new tough sanctions against Russia and Belarus, the European Council said in its statement released on Friday.

"The European Union has so far adopted significant sanctions that are having a massive impact on Russia and Belarus, and remains ready to close loopholes and target actual and possible circumvention as well as to move quickly with further coordinated robust sanctions on Russia and Belarus," the European Council said.

"Any attempts to circumvent sanctions or to aid Russia by other means must be stopped," according to the statement.

The EU also agreed to set up the solidarity trust fund for Ukraine, the European Council said.

"The European Council agrees to develop a Ukraine Solidarity Trust Fund and invites its international partners to participate, and calls for preparations to start without delay. It calls on the Commission to continue to provide technical assistance in order to help Ukraine implement necessary reforms," it added. (TASS)

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

Court Revokes Gov. Decision on Mosque Closure in Bordeaux

T

EHRAN (IQNA) – A local court in France has repealed the government’s decision to shut down a mosque near the city of Bordeaux.

Sefen Guez Guez, the lawyer of the association of the Al Farouk Mosque, said on Wednesday that the Bordeaux Administrative Court annulled the Gironde Governorate’s March 14 decision to close the mosque for six months.

He noted that the court’s decision was a step against the “unfair” closure of mosques in recent years, adding that Muslims can come together in the mosque.

The Al Farouk Mosque in the Pessac district near the city of Bordeaux was closed for allegedly defending "radical Islam" and “spreading Salafist ideology”.

In August, France’s highest constitutional authority approved a controversial “anti-separatism” law that has been criticised for singling out Muslims, striking down just two of its articles.

The bill was passed by the National Assembly in July despite strong opposition from both rightist and leftist lawmakers.

The government claims that the law is intended to strengthen France's "secular system", but critics believe that it restricts religious freedom and marginalises Muslims.

The law has been criticised for targeting France's Muslim community – the largest in Europe, with 3.35 million members – and imposing restrictions on many aspects of their lives.

It allows officials to intervene in mosques and associations responsible for their administration as well as control the finances of Muslim-affiliated associations and non-governmental organisations.

It also restricts the educational choices of Muslims by making homeschooling subject to official permission.

Under the law, patients are also prohibited from choosing their doctors based on gender for religious or other reasons.

France has been criticised by international organisations and NGOs, especially the UN, for targeting and marginalising Muslims with the law.

Since February 2018, France has controlled nearly 25,000 mosques, schools, associations and workplaces and closed 718 of them, including over 20 mosques, according to a report published on March 2.

Source: TRT World

UK’s Largest Muslim Shopping Festival Due in London Muslim Londoners can look forward to a muchanticipated food and shopping festival before the start of Ramadan this year - with an estimated 20,000 people attending. London Muslim Shopping festival will be taking place on March 26 and March 27 at Excel London, this will be UK’s largest Muslim shopping showcase and will be filled with activities.

The festival is back for its sixth year, celebrating the rich culture of the Halal industry. More than 250 stalls and exhibitors are expected, with plenty of food, fashion and shopping opportunities for all. The London Muslim Shopping Festival will once again host the popular cookery theatre and the Food court in association with London Halal Food Festival, will be serving up tasty dishes.

Speaking to MyLondon, event director Waleed Jahangir said: "I myself come from an events background and I'm from the Muslim community, I grew up next to a mosque and at the same time everyone was thrown into a western environment so finding the balance was tricky. What I wanted to do was showcase the best of the community and culture through trade, economics and commerce."

Waleed continued: "We started this many years ago and although we're the fastest growing community in the world, out needs have not been tapped into in the mainstream. The first year event was six years ago and we went straight into it, we had various celebrities over the years such as the Citizen Khan crew, then we grew from there and year on year out we've been doubling the rate of exhibitors and attendees.

"We started with around 5,000 and this year we're expecting 20,000 people, we had to change venues from Olympia as we started off in a small hall then grew into biggest hall then outgrew it and came to Excel London.

"You can look forward to a Halal food court, bazaar, seminars, kids zone and one of the main attractions is a modest catwalk, modest fashion live which is Europe's biggest Muslim catwalk. We have over 250 vendors from 16 different countries - people are coming from across the world to sell their stuff, Malaysia, Middle East, Turkey, America and Canada."

Source: MyLondon

Foreign News

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

Ukraine hopes China will play ‘more prominent’ role to end war ANKARA – A senior Ukrainian official said Tuesday that his country hopes China, as an important global actor, will play a more notable role to bring an end to the war with Russia.

"Kyiv is hopeful that Beijing will play a more prominent role in bringing this war to an end," Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, said on his Twitter account.

“We look forward to (Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and (Chinese President) Xi Jinping talk,” he noted, adding the leading countries worldwide should agree on deterring Russia, including China.

On Monday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said China should be involved in the solution process regarding the war, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin responded the same day, saying the conflicting countries should maintain contact and resolve the issue through diplomacy.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has been met with international outrage, with the European Union, US and UK among others implementing tough financial sanctions on Moscow.

Peace talks tough but progressing Ukraine’s president said early Wednesday that negotiations with Russia on ending the war were difficult but are slowing moving forward.

In a video address on his Telegram account, Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on the latest developments regarding the war, negotiations and evacuations.

“Ukrainian representatives are working on the negotiations, which continue virtually every day. It is difficult, sometimes scandalous. But step by step, we are moving forward,” Zelenskyy said.

He noted that the talks with Russia were ongoing at

various levels to bring an end to the brutal war, which has left thousands of people dead and millions displaced.

Some 100,000 people are stranded in the besieged city of Mariupol and are being forced to live under a complete blockade in inhumane conditions without food, water and medicine, according to Zelenskyy, who noted that around 7,000 others were evacuated but Russian forces hampered the evacuation process.

“Our representatives are trying to agree on humanitarian corridors in the Kyiv, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and Luhansk regions,” he said, adding further evacuations would take place in Mariupol on Wednesday.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has been met with international outrage, with the European Union, US and UK among others implementing tough financial sanctions on Moscow.

At least 953 civilians have been killed during the war and 1,557 injured, according to a tally by the UN. The international body warns, however, that the true toll is "considerably higher."

The Ukrainian military on Wednesday claimed some 15,600 Russian soldiers have been killed in Ukraine since the start of the war.

Ukrainian forces have also destroyed 101 Russian aircraft, 124 helicopters, 517 tanks, 1,578 armored carriers, 267 cannons, 80 rocket launcher systems, and 47 air defense systems since Feb. 24, according to the Ukrainian General Staff.

The Russian forces also lost 1,008 vehicles, four light speedboats, 70 fuel vehicles, and 42 UAVs, it added.

More than 3.5 million people have fled Ukraine amid the Russian attacks, according to the UN refugee agency. (Anadolu)

UN Security Council rejects Russian draft resolution on Ukraine WASHINGTON – The UN Security Council on Wednesday overwhelmingly rejected a draft resolution from Russia on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine.

Only China joined Russia in voting in favor of the text, with all of the chamber's other 13 members abstaining.

The draft resolution expresses "grave concern at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in and around Ukraine," citing in particular a growing number of internally displaced people and refugees from the Ukrainian conflict.

While it condemns "all violations of international humanitarian law and violations of human rights,"

the text does not assign blame for the war.

Speaking ahead of the vote, US envoy to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the draft was a Russian attempt "to provide cover for its brutal actions" in Ukraine.

"It really is unconscionable that Russia would have the audacity to put forward a resolution asking the international community to solve a humanitarian crisis that Russia alone created,” she said.

"Russia is the aggressor, the attacker, the invader, the sole party in Ukraine, engaged in a campaign of brutality against the people of Ukraine, and they want us to pass a resolution that does not acknowledge their culpability," she add-

ed.

Vassily Nebenzia, Moscow's permanent representative, signaled that Russia's resolution was likely doomed to failure before the vote took place, saying "we categorically reject the premise of the council not being in a position to adopt a resolution on the Ukrainian humanitarian dossier."

"This is something which UN humanitarian representatives on the ground would be very interested in much more so than any humanitarian resolution from the General Assembly," he said.

He was likely referring to a pending General Assembly vote on a resolution that would for a second time condemn Russia for the war. The as-

sembly first did so on March 2.

The new resolution, which may be voted on as soon as Wednesday, again directly names Russia as the aggressor and renews its demand for the Kremlin to immediately halt the offensive.

Russia's war on Ukraine, which began on Feb. 24, has been met with international outrage, with the European Union, US and UK among others implementing tough financial sanctions on Moscow.

At least 977 civilians have been killed during the war and 1,594 injured, according to UN estimates.

More than 3.6 million people have fled Ukraine to neighboring countries, according to the UN refugee agency. ANADOLU

IMF working with Ukraine to prevent its economic collapse: chief ANKARA – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is closely engaged with Ukraine on how to apply the best crisis management measures to prevent its economic collapse, Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said Tuesday.

"I would say that money is important, but support in how to keep the financial system functioning is equally important," Georgieva said in a live discussion held by US news publication Foreign Policy.

"The devastation of the Ukrainian economy breaks my heart. We are likely to see shrinkage that could be a third of what it was before the war. Imagine how that translates into hardship on people," she said.

Georgieva said the IMF immediately responded to a request by Ukraine for $1.4 billion in emergency funding to keep the country functioning and support vulnerable people and the administration in securing water and electricity in war-affected areas.

The IMF chief said Russia's war on Ukraine came at a time when the world economy was yet to recover from the

coronavirus pandemic-induced crisis.

"What we were striving for is for (global economic) growth to go up and inflation, which has become a problem, to go down. Instead, we have the exact opposite.

Growth is going down, inflation is going up," she said.

"We are assessing the impact of the war and the sanctions in different parts of the world in different categories of countries," she added.

Georgieva said the first category of countries consists of immediate neighbors of Russia and Ukraine, which have relatively weak economies that rely on trade.

Second are countries that receive refugees, which climbed to 3.3 million people, she said. The third are countries that depend on imports of energy and food from Russia and Ukraine.

"Higher energy and higher food prices mean devastation. We encourage countries to direct the little policy space they have to those that are most vulnerable," she added. ANADOLU

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NATO leaders to hold extraordinary meeting March 24

B

RUSSELS – NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg announced on Tuesday that alliance leaders will hold an extraordinary summit on March 24 to discuss the Russian invasion of Ukraine and NATO’s response to it.

“I have convened an extraordinary Summit on 24 March at NATO headquarters,” Stoltenberg said on social media.

“We will address Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, our strong support for Ukraine, and further strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defense.”

The (European Union) EU heads of states and governments will also hold a two-day summit in Brussels starting on the same day – exactly one month since Russia launched its war on Ukraine.

“US President Joe Biden will join the EU leaders’ summit in person on March 24,” confirmed an EU official, speaking on condition of unanimity.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on February 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow, and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 636 civilians have been killed and 1,125 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN. It has warned, however, that the true toll is likely much higher as it has not been able to gain access to areas of increased hostilities.

About three million people have also fled to neighboring countries, the UN refugee agency said.

Source: Press TV

US won’t fight Russia in Ukraine but will defend NATO territory WASHINGTON - The US won’t go to war with Russia in Ukraine but will defend NATO territory, if necessary, US President Joe Biden said in a speech about Ukraine at the White House on Friday.

"We will not fight a war against Russia in Ukraine," he said. "Direct confrontation between NATO and Russia is World War III - something we must strive to prevent."

"We are going to continue to stand together with our allies in Europe and send an unmistakable message: We’ll defend every single inch of NATO territory with the full might of united and galvanized NATO," Biden said.

He declined to say if Washington has evidence corroborating statements by some Western countries that there’s a risk of Russia using chemical weapons in Ukraine.

"I’m not going to speak about the intelligence but Russia would pay a severe price if it used chemical weapons," the US president said. TASS

Rescue work continues after passenger plane crash in south China NANNING – Rescue work continued on Tuesday after a passenger plane with 132 people aboard crashed in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Monday afternoon.

Over 2,000 people have been sent to the site as part of the rescue efforts.

Since the site of the crash is located in a mountain forest, the search for the black box relies on both drones and rescue staff.

Zhu Xiaodong, a rescuer with a drone rescue center in Guangzhou, capital of south China’s Guangdong Province and also the destination of the plane, said at the site that it is difficult to carry out rescue work as there are only a few paths leading to the site.

At around 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, light rain fell over the rescue site.

The local meteorological department forecast that more rain would hit the area from Tuesday to Thursday, which might adversely affect the search efforts.

The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft, which departed from Kunming and was bound for Guangzhou, crashed into a mountainous area near Molang Village in Tengxian County in the city of Wuzhou at 2:38 p.m. Monday, causing a mountain fire. XINHUA

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Culture

NAAN BANGSAMORO HALAL CUISINE With Maria Fhebie Ortil

A

ssalamu Alaykum! For this week issue of the Philippine Muslim Today under Volume 2, No. 41 covering the date of March 25-30, 2022, I will discuss with you a type of bread known as Naan commonly served in Indian Restaurants.

However, this is still a Halal food.

Naan – is an easy naan bread recipe using a castiron skillet. Soft, puffy, with beautiful brown blisters just like in Indian restaurants.

Traditionally they are baked inside a very hot clay tandoor oven, with charcoal or wood fire.

INGREDIENTS • 1 teaspoon sugar • 1/2 cup warm water • 1/4 oz. (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 cup plain yogurt • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 tablespoon oil • some oil, for greasing the skillet • 3 tablespoons melted butter INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a small bowl, add the sugar, warm water, and yeast together. Stir to combine well.

2. The yeast should be activated when it becomes foamy, about 10 minutes. Transfer the flour to a flat surface and make a well in the middle.

3. Add the yeast mixture, yoghurt, salt and oil, knead the dough until the surface becomes smooth and shiny, about 10 minutes.

4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place (for example: beside the stovetop or warm oven). The dough should double in size, about 1 hour.

5. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll the dough to a 8” circle using a rolling spin.

6. Heat up a skillet (cast-iron preferred) over high heat and lightly grease the surface with some oil to avoid the dough from sticking to the skillet.

7. Place the dough on the skillet. When it puffs up and bubbles and burnt spots appear, flip it over and cook the other side.

8. Repeat the same until all dough are done.

9. Brush the naan with the melted butter, serve warm.

(MFO)

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

EX-COTABATO| from Page A3

Ex-Cotabato city police chief slain, escort wounded in gun attack Cotabateños, let us fight against all this lawlessness.

Let us fight for Cotabato City,” the mayor was quoted as saying.

Police investigators said Balquin’s family had not received any prior threats against him.

South Cotabato-based lawyer-journalist Berteni Cataluña Causing expressed surprise about Saturday’s incident.

Causing said Balquin was his client in a legal battle stemming from a suit filed by his wife. He did not elaborate on the nature of the suit.

Incumbent City Police Director Col. Rommel Javier

was quoted as telling a recent peace and order council meeting here that 125 crimes were recorded in the first quarter of this year, surpassing 114 cases logged in the first quarter of 2021.

Balquin was one of key city hall officials slain so far.

On May 25, 2020, Anecito “Boy” Rasalan, the executive secretary and spokesperson for Mayor Sayadi, was shot to death while taking his breakfast in an eatery along Notre Dame Avenue here.

Razalan’s slay has remained unresolved. ( AGM)

BALT| from Page A4

New COMELEC Chair and the qualities of a leader He practice law with the prestigious Siguion-Reyna, Montecillo & Ongsiako law offices in Makati City until 1984, where he became a legal counsel of both local and multi-national companies in the Philippines such as Bank of America, Goodyear, Caltex, Sumitomo, Dole Philippines, San Miguel Corp., PLDT, Philippine Airlines, and Equitable PCI Bank (now BDO).

Abolishing of 2,000 ghost barangays.

Pangarungan was later appointed as undersecretary of Department of Interior and Local Government

by President Corazon Aquino. He was tasked as chairman of the inter-agency committee that investigated the ghost barangays in the Muslim provinces. After 6 months of ocular investigations and upon his recommendations, President Aquino signed an executive order abolishing some 2,000 ghost barangays in the two Lanao provinces, saving the government billions of pesos in regular allotments to the non-existent or uninhabited villages. As undersecretary, he also helped craft an executive order granting regular salaries and allowances to barangay (village) officials in the country.

Peacemaker*.

Pangarungan was also a member of the Philippine delegation at the World Muslim Congress in Karachi, Pakistan in 1983, where he sponsored the adoption of the ‘Karachi Declaration for Peace & Unity’ to revive the long stalled peace talks between the Marcos government and the rebel MNLF and BMLO forces. The delegation included Senators Acmad Domocao Alonto, Salipada Pendatun, speakers Uttoh Ututalum and

Abulkhayr Alonto, Court of Appeals justice Mama Busran and Princess Tarhata Lucman.[3] In 1987, President Cory Aquino sent Senators Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Agapito Butz Aquino, Norberto Gonzales and Pangarungan to the Organization of Islamic Conference in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to revive the peace talks with the MNLF- Nur Misuari faction. This led to the signing of the Jeddah Accord of 1987. Nur Misuari ended his exile and returned to the Philippines to eventually sign the 1996 Final Peace Accord with the government.

He belongs to a Royal blood and family of heroes.

He was enthroned Sultan of the Sultanate of Madaya, Marawi City on July 5, 2009, attended by 12,000 dignitaries and guests. His father’s parents belong to the martyrs, the Sultan of Bayang and Sultan Pandapatan, the two Maranao Muslim leaders that fought the United States 37th Cavalry forces in the Battle of Bayang of May 2 ,1902, described in American press as the fiercest battle in the history of the entire Philippine Insurrections. ”Gob” is not tired to continue his struggle for a better governance and surely under his watch “for an honest, orderly and peaceful elections”.

————————— For comments: Email me at bayanbalt@yahoo.com Atty. Bayan G. Balt is the former Chapter President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP-Marawi City and Lanao del Sur, 2013-2015), and Chairman of the Ranao Federal State Movement, RFSM).

MOSLEM| from Page A6

Treatment of Prisoners of War in Islam... that it is the duty of the Muslims to get their prisoners releases from the enemy. It was also reported one time that Caliph Umar ordered that all Muslim prisoners in the hands of the polytheists (or the infidels in general) must be released and the ransom for their release must be charged against the Muslim state treasury.

CONCLUSION It can be gleaned from the foregoing discussions that the rules on the treatment of prisoners of war under the Islamic international law in contrast with those rules under the 1949 Conventions, are more liberal. It must be pointed out, however, that while enslavement theretofore allowed in Islam, yet such practice has been discouraged by the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his successors. Moreover, the rule on the release of prisoners of war in Islam by ransom has likewise been regulated and never been abused despite its legalization. During the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him) there were instances when, instead of ransom money, prisoners of war were just required to

teach a number of Muslim boys for calligraphy.

Enslavement and the penalty of execution, under certain circumstances despite its legalization have never been imposed. Such punishments can only be inflicted tothe prisoners of war after a decision has been reached by the higher authorities of a Muslim state like that of an Imam or arbitrator, chosen sometime by the prisoners themselves, and who belonged to their own tribes, but were converted to Islam.

The Islamic rules or the treatment of prisoners of war have always been accorded due obedience and respect being commandments directly from the Qur'an and the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Contrarywise, while it is true that the treatment of prisoners of war under the 1949 Geneva Conventions is obviously liberal and realistic, yet the cruel and inhumane punishments inflicted on the POWs during and after the Second World War eloquently attest to the fact that the same rules could not be really enforced.

They are just being flouted with impunity.

(MAM)

DAVAO | from Page A6

Davao dads declare VP aspirant ‘persona non grata’

Naan

try, and recently cited the city’s coastal road and the modernization of the public utility vehicles as proof of corruption.

On Monday, the Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) referred to Bello as a “threat” to the government’s antiillegal drug campaign.

“HNP takes this information seriously as a regional party with incumbent elected official members who

want to strengthen our coordination with law enforcement agencies fighting the proliferation of prohibited drugs,” said the HNP, chaired by Mayor Sara Duterte.

Earlier, former city information officer Jefry Tupas filed cyber libel charges against Bello, who accused him in an online press conference of being a drug dealer, and claiming that he was caught “snorting PHP1.5 million worth of drugs.” (PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY)

Classified

CLASSIFIED ADS ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCT FOR SALE RENT FOR FREE

You can advertise your product for sale or for rent such as house & lot, and real estate property, cars, anything in a certain space we provide here for free. Call us. — Editors

Vol. II, No. 41 | Mar. 25-31, 2022 (Shaban 22-28, 1443)

EXTRA JUDICAL SETTLEMENT WITH SALE

EXTRA JUDICAL SETTLEMENT WITH WAIVER OF RIGHT

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: We, CLARA O. PALOMARES, JOAN TAMONDONG MAGLASANG AND JEE MAGLASANG CAMANERO, of legal ages, and residents of Liloan Cebu, Antipolo City and General Trias, Cavite, respectively, after being sworn to in law, depose and say that:

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: This EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS made and entered into by and among: WE, NELSON H. CADA, MA. CRISTINA C. CUBEROS, GERRY B. CADA and CLARITA D. CADA, of legal ages, Filipino and residents of Borongan City, Eastern Samar and Iligan City respectively:

WITNESSETH:

1.

2.

3.

4.

We are the heirs of the deceased LEONILO B. MAGLASANG; Leonilo B. Maglasang died intestate and without any known debt; Among the properties left by our deceased father, Leonilo B. Maglasang is a parcel of land described and covered by Transfer Certificate of Title no. 155-2013000089, of the Registry of Deedsof Iligan City; We are adjudicating unto ourselves the foregoing property being the Heirs of the late LEONILO B. MAGLASANG pursuant to rule 74 of the Revised Rules of Court;

This instrument is executed pursuant to Section 1, Rule 74 of the Revised Rules of Court.

WANTED

URGENT HIRING

NEED ONE (1) NEWSPAPER EDITOR. SEND RESUME ASAP TO: chiefeditor@philmuslim.today FOR SALE

FOR RENT

OLD LANCER INTACT BUT CONDEMNED FOR SEVERAL YEARS IN FRONT OF MAHOGANY HILLS, C3 ROAD, ILIGAN CITY. AS IS WHERE IS. PRICE P20K .

LOCATED AT CONSUNJI ST., POBLACION, ILIGAN CITY (front of Emcor Motors).

CALL Tel.No. 0632290965.

SERVICES

I do editing and layout of schools publication.

Call 09477201555

WE ACCEPT RUSH PRINTING: “LAYOUT, EDITING AND PRINTING OF SCHOOL ORGANS, MAGAZINES AND TABLOID SIZE NEWSPAPERS.”

CALL/TEXT: 063 3035565, 063 2290965, 09477201555 OR VISIT US AT OUR PRINTING PLANT: CONSUNJI STREET, POBLACION, ILIGAN CITY (In front of Emcor Motors) Tel. 063 3035565 | 09477201555 —————————————WE ALSO ACCEPT PUBLICATION OF THE FOLLOWING: ExtraJudicial Settlements, Court Orders, Legal Notices, Obituaries, Articles for Promotion and other announcements.

A11

Furthermore, for and in consideration of the sum of SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND (P600,000.00), PESOS, to me in hand paid

by PRINCE RAJIV M. SARANGANI, of legal age married to SITTIE SAFFURAH A. OMBAWA, and resident of Lumbayao, Wato, Balindong, Lanao Del Sur, sold, conveyed and transferred the abovedescribed parcel of land to said PRINCE RAJIV M. SARANGANI, his heirs, assigns and executors.

The said property is free from all liens and encumbrances.

In WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands this ____ day of March 15, 2022, at Iligan City, Philippines.

(SGD) JOAN T. MAGLASANG Heir-vendor

(SGD) CLARA O. PALOMARES Heir-vendor

(SGD) JEE MAGLASANG CAMANERO Heir-vendor

(SGD) JOAN T. MAGLASANG Attorney-in-Fact

(SGD) PRINCE RAJIV M. SARANGANI Vendee SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE OF: (SGD) SITTIE SAFFURAH A. OMBAW ______________________ Witness Witness ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Republic of the Philippines ) City of Iligan )S.S X-—---------------------------------/ BEFORE ME, personally appeared with their.

Name

ID CTC NO.

Joan T. Maglasang Joe M. Camanero 1676848-2 Prince Rajiv M. Sarangani

TIN-387-344-495-000 UMID CRN-0111TIN-432-829-933-000

Known to me and to be persons me known executed the foregoing document and acknowledgement before me that the same is their free and voluntary act and deed.

This document consists of two (2) pages including this page.

WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL, at the above place and date.

(SGD) ATTY.SAIDALI C. GANDAMRA NOTARY PUBLIC UNTIL 6/30/2022 (D.M. NO. 3795) COMMISION NO. 20-263 PTR NO. 0447552 1/3/22 IBP LIFETIME NO. 05046 ROLL NO. 39184 MCLE COMPL. NO. VU-0002881/4/14/2022 Doc. No. 203; Page No. 41; Book No. II; Series of 2022.

PMT: Mar. 18-24, 2022; Mar. 25-31 , 2022; Apr. 1-7, 2022.

WITNESSETH: That the above-named parties, all of legal ages, are the surviving legitimate legal heirs (nephews, niece and sister) of the late ROSARIO CADA LINDIO, who died at Chicago Illinois on December 27, 2021, without any will; 2. That the aforementioned at the time of her death, left some outstanding balance on her peso/Dollar Savings and Checking Account at the Philippine National Bank (PNB), Metrobank, United Coconut Planters Bank Savings (UCPB Savings) and Chinabank, Borongan City and Iligan City branches respectively; 3. That no real properties are involved in this extrajudicial settlement; 4. That to the best knowledge and information of the parties hereto, the said deceased left no debts; 5. That pursuant to Rule 74, Sec. 1 of the Rules of Court, the herein parties, being all of legal age, and with full capacity to contract, hereby by these presents agree to adjudicate among themselves the following Accounts as the exclusive co-owners by right of succession, * PNB Borongan-Dollar Savings Account with No. 312860002088 * PNB Borongan-Peso Savings Account with No. 0131286000004245 * PNB Borongan-Peso Savings Account with No. 0131286000004256 * PNB Borongan-Peso Savings Account with No. 312810002094 * PNB Iligan-Peso Checking Account with No. 410670004853 * PNB Iligan-Peso Savings Account with No. 410610077209 * Metrobank Borongan-Dollar Savings Account with No. 390-2-39000336-0 * Metrobank Borongan-Peso Savings Account with No. 390-3-39017706-3 * Metrobank Iligan-Peso Savings Account with No. 170-3-17041490-0 * UCPB Borongan-Peso Savings Account with No. 980-01-00026-1 * Chinabank Borongan-Peso Savings Account with No. 127202006922.

• That the parties hereto NELSON H. CADA, MA. CRISTINA C. CUBEROS and GERRY B. CADA have renounced and waived as by these presents hereby waive and quit all rights and claims over the above-mentioned Peso/Dollar Savings and Checking Account of their deceased aunt ROSARIO CADA LINDIO in favor of their aunt CLARITA D. CADA, her heirs, successors, and assigns; • That we hereby hold Philippine National Bank (PNB), Metrobank, United Coconut Planters Bank Savings (UCPB Savings) and Chinabank, Borongan City and Iligan City branches, free from any and all claims that may arise from other heirs not included in the Extrajudicial Settlement; • The parties further agree to submit the extrajudicial settlement to the Philippine National Bank (PNB), Metrobank, United Coconut Planters Bank Savings (UCPB Savings) and Chinabank, Borongan City and Iligan City branches to cause effect for the claim of the proceeds of the above-mentioned accounts of late ROSARIO CADA LINDIO. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have hereunto set our hands this Feb. 18, 2022 in Boronan City, Eastern Samar, Philippines.

(SGD) (SGD) NELSON H. CADA MA. CRISTINA C. CUBEROS Heir/Waivant Heir/Waivant ID Details_______________ ID Details ______________ 1.

(SGD) (SGD) GERRY D. CADA CLARITA D. CADA Heir/Waivant Heir/Waivant ID Details ______________ ID Details ______________ SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE OF: (SGD) (SGD) ____________________ ______________________ Witness Witness ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Republic of the Philippines ) Province of Eastern Samar ) City of Borongan ) S.S. BEFORE ME, a notary in and for Borongan Cityt, Eastern Samar, this FEB. 18 2022, personally appeared NELSON H. CADA, MA. CRISTINA C. CUBEROS, GERRY B. CADA and CLARITA D. CADA who presented to me their respective competent evidence of identity, and known to me to be the same persons who executed the foregoing Extrajudicial Settlement with Waiver of Rights, and they acknowledge to me that the same is their voluntary act and deed.: WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL on the place and date above written.

(SGD) ATTY. RHODA MONTES CEBRICUS Notary Public Until December 31, 2023 Not. Commission No. 12-21-2021 RTC-BR-2 TIN 187-193-178 Roll No. 59979; 3/22/2012 PTR No. 2097443: 01/03/2022 Borongan City IBP Lifetime Member ID No. 013482: Eastern Samar Chapter MCLE Compliance No. VII-0003243 Valid Until 04/14/2025 Doc. No. 43 Page No. 89 Book No. XXXII Series of 2022.

PMT: Mar. 11-17, 2022; Mar. 18-24, 2022; Mar. 25-31 , 2022.