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Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

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The Fight for the National Heritage on Masungi (Full story on page A8)

BARMM, MinDA ink cooperation agreement to advance dev’t ties — Page A2

BARMM on the road to economic recovery, says Ebrahem BY APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN | Marawi City

angsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Murad Ebrahim said the autonomous region is heading on the road to economic recovery as shown in the latest economic performance of the autonomous region. Ebrahim highlighted in the June 6 episode of Network Briefing News that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was one of the four regions in the country that surpassed its prepandemic economic performance. Citing the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, the chief minister said BARMM recorded the second-fastest growth among all regions in the country posting a 7.5% economic growth in 2021. Ebrahem further mentioned that BARMM also has

A2 BANGSAMORO REGION

Bngsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Murad Ebrahim

A5 MARAWI REHAB

the most significant reduction in poverty incidence from 55.9% in 2018 to 39.4% in 2021. He said about 365,900 families are poor in 2018 in the then ARMM but this has declined to 247,000 families in 2021. In terms of infrastructure development, the chief minister shared that various infrastructure projects are implemented in more than 3,000 barangays of the region of which some have already

been completed while others are ongoing. These infra projects, he said, consisted of barangay halls, road networks, and hospitals, among others. Ebrahim meanwhile stated that they are now on the third phase of the decommissioning process wherein more than 40,000 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants will be decommissioned. They have likewise started conducting the qualifying examinations for quali-

A6 COVID-19

MAFAR deploys coral nursery units in Lanao del Sur

27 IDPs complete dress- No Covid-19 surge making training, receive due to non-stop starter kits vaccination: Galvez

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform deployed coral nursery units (CNU) in the waters of Balabagan town as part of the region-wide marine conservation...

Some 27 displaced women have now obtained new skills that they can use as they rebuild their lives and recover from the effects of the devastating 2017 Marawi siege.

The Philippines keeping coronavirus cases low and not recording a surge for months is a "major accomplishment" and a result of the government’s continuous vaccination activities...

fied MILF combatants’ entry to police and army forces. The chief minister is also hoping that the new administration will continue the implementation of the peace agreement. According to him, the Bangsamoro government is hoping that within this month and next month, they will be able to have a close engagement with the incoming administration. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Bangsamoro News

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

Development:

Agriculture:

BARMM, MinDA ink cooperation agreement to advance dev’t ties

MAFAR deploys coral nursery units in Lanao del Sur

ARAWI CITY–The Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Wednesday, June 8, to strengthen their commitment and cooperation toward accelerating socio-economic growth and promoting business opportunities, integration, and development in the Bangsamoro region. BPDA Director-General Engr. Mohajirin Ali said this signals the beginning of a stronger partnership and closer collaboration between the BPDA and MinDA towards more robust participation among the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), Mindanao Peace and Development (MIPAD), and other inter-regional development initiatives in Mindanao. “This significant milestone comes at a critical juncture, particularly for the Bangsamoro Government which is navigating a delicate transition while pursuing socio-economic recovery amid the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said. “It is, therefore, a distinct privilege for us (BPDA) to partner with MinDA in coordinating and integrating development efforts means to accelerate socioeconomic development in Mindanao,” he added. He underscored that said initiative will also advance strategic engagement for long-term peace and development in Mindanao as a whole. “With this historic event, I look forward to the successful implementation of our MOC and I fervently hope that this partnership will prosper in achieving our common goals and objectives,” Ali further said. Also present at the event was BARMM Cabinet Secretary Mohd Asnin Pendatun, who represented Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim. “The strategic cooperation in which the BARMM operates not only serves as a gateway for the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) but it also a gateway for further development. We all know that the success of BARMM is a success of Mindanao,” Pendatun stressed. On the other hand, MinDA Chair Secretary Maria Belen Acosta mentioned that the Bangsamoro region has always been an important focus area of MinDA’s development initiatives as it plays a strategic, historical, and cultural value in the Philippines’ commitment and participation under the BIMP-EAGA, and subregional cooperation. “The rest of the world would be able to witness the Mindanao beauty and bounty that have been long overshadowed by stories and narratives of poverty and conflict,” Acosta said. Acosta believes that this collaboration will make BARMM an economic powerhouse and a strategic EAGA player in Mindanao. “As we collectively work together to sustain the gains of peace, we will not cease in pushing for a BARMM and Mindanao that is resilient, peaceful, progressive, and globally competitive,” she said. The historic signing of MOC was witnessed by Minister Abu Amri Taddik of the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT), Minister Dickson Hermoso of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), Director Engr. Ismael Guiamel of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), MinDA Undersecretary Janet Lopoz, BPDA Deputy Director-General Engr. Amil Abubakar, and other key officials from BPDA and MinDa. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur) APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN

BY APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN | Cotabato City

ARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)–The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform deployed coral nursery units

(CNU) in the waters of Balabagan town as part of the region-wide marine conservation and restoration efforts.

A total of 11 CNUs were deployed and transplanted with coral fragments or coral of opportunities collected near the site on June 1-3, 2022 in Brgy. Banago, municipality of Balabagan. It was conducted by MAFAR’s Fisheries Resource Management Division (FRMD) and Fishery Regulatory and Law Enforcement Division (FRLED) in collaboration with Banago village officials, the local government unit of Balabagan, and MAFAR provincial office. This restoration effort is part of the Ministry’s initiatives to restore the

tivity of marine resources. MAFAR is also set to conduct another CNU deployment in Bongo Is-

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform deploys 11 coral nursery units with coral fragments in Banago village in the municipality of Balabagan, as part of the coral reef restoration efforts in some identified areas of the Bangsamoro region. (MAFAR) degraded coral reefs in some identified areas of the Bangsamoro region and increase the produc-

land, Parang, and Maguindanao within the quarter of this year. (With report from MAFAR)

BARMM gov’t prioritizes health system improvement MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) — Strengthening the region’s health system is one of the priorities of the Bangsamoro government, Chief Minister Ahod Murad Ebrahim said.

During the June 6 episode of Network Briefing News, Ebrahem said the Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the weaknesses of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in terms of its health system. “Nakita natin na yung mga hospitals natin ay hindi

masyadong upgraded. Nakita natin that we lack medical personnel and facilities, especially in our far-flung areas tulad ng island provinces,” he noted. [We have seen that our hospitals are not upgraded. We see that we lack medical personnel and facilities, especially in our far-flung areas like the island provinces.] As such, he said they are now focusing on further improving health facilities and medical services which was previously declared by the Bangsamoro government as one of its priorities. Aside from the health system, the chief minister further said they would also give more attention to the delivery of social services after discovering at the height of the pandemic that many of the Bangsamoro are suffering and struggling. Ebrahem said they already extended a very comprehensive ‘ayuda’ program and were able to reach out to many Bangsamoro even those outside the Bangsamoro areas. The provision of social services, he said, would continue to ensure that no Bangsamoro is left behind. APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN

PENREO-LDS spearheads clean-up, tree caring drive MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur—The Provincial Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (ENRE) conducted a cleanup drive and tree caring activity in line with this year’s observance of the Philippine Environment Month and World Environment Day. The community cleanup drive was conducted along the SarimanokBasak Malutlut Highway on June 5 and participat-

ed by Barangay officials, and representatives from the Marawi Police Station and Special Action Forces (SAF) in the province. With the theme “Tanim Ko, Aalagaan ko,” the tree caring activity targeted ornamental trees along the Organization of Industrial, Spiritual, and Cultural Advancement (OISCA)-Marawi Farm. These trees were planted in November 2021 through the Adopt-a

-Tree Initiative, a pioneer program of the Ministry of ENRE. “As environmental champions, we need to promote leadership by example. Hands on dapat, ipakita natin sa ating mga kababayang Meranaw the real essence of public service. The spirit of volunteerism is a must to address environmental problems and strengthen community partnership,” said Provin-

cial ENRE Officer Asmarie Labao. The cleanup drive and tree caring activity were among the series of activities for the environment month. A photo exhibit/photo booth will also be open for public viewing during the last week of June to culminate the observance. (With MENRE). APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN

Bangsamoro News

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

PAL launches first-ever route within BARMM with Cotabato - Tawi-Tawi flights BY ABDULLAH MATUCAN | Tawi-Tawi raveling from Cotabato City to this province and vice-versa is now made easier with the Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) launching of direct

flights on Thursday, June 9. This is PAL’s first ever route within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, which is expected to boost the region’s economy as the route connects the mainland to the island provinces.

The service will operate twice weekly on Mondays and Thursdays, with Awang Airport in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao (also known as Cotabato Airport) and Sanga -Sanga Airport in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi as gateways. “Matagal na nating pinapangarap na magkaroon tayo ng direct flight from Cotabato to TawiTawi,” said BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, describing the travel between the two places as ‘expensive and laborious’. During the inaugural flight, Ebrahim addressed the passengers before the plane departed at 7:30am. “This [flight] signals [the end] of the long-time challenge of connectivity of Tawi-Tawi with the [BARMM] mainland and other parts of the country,” Ebrahim said. “This inaugural flight is a simple step to make Mindanao a better place for all us, Muslims, Christians, and Lumads,” he said. On the other hand, PAL Express Acting President Rabbi Vincent Ang said the flight was a testament of what the Bangsamoro people is capable of. “This is not a flight that made possible by PAL. The people of this region, the leaders of this region made this possible,” Ang said. To recall, Minister

those intervening events, talks continued between MOTC and PAL and the latter remained committed to opening its first route entirely within BARMM, connecting the mainland and one of the island-provinces. The latest of these talks was last May 18, 2022,” MOTC said in a press release. MOTC said it also coordinated closely with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) which is implementing a project to further develop the Sanga-Sanga Airport in several phases, including a new passenger terminal building by 2025. The ministry also requested that DOTr’s passenger terminal building project in Awang Airport be completed as soon as possible as it is already overdue.

Dickson Hermoso and Director-General Roslaine Macao-Maniri of the BARMM’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) initiated a meeting with PAL executives on November 4, 2021 in Manila. The executives included Senior Assistant VicePresident for Philippine Sales Harry Inoferio, Assistant Vice-President for Airport Services Mary Jane Go, and VicePresident for Security retired Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo. According to MOTC, the opening of the first flight was initially scheduled on December 20, 2021, but it was affected by super typhoon Odette, COVID-19 Omicron variant surge, typhoon Agaton, and the election period. “But through all of

Meanwhile, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Maria Belen Acosta commended everyone who contributed to the realization of such flight. “Bago pa itong inauguration ay nagkaroon na ng series of workshops at planning sessions,” Acosta said. Acosta hoped that the flight will spur economic activity in the region. “Hopefully, it will pick up at maging everyday na yung flight dahil even before the direct flight, sobra sobra na yung demand for economic activity, ” she said. As the inaugural flight arrived in Tawi-Tawi after an hour, it was welcomed with a traditional water canon salute. (Bangsamoro Information Office)

P1.99-M worth of ‘Halal feed mill’ to rise in Maguindanao COTABATO CITY—To strengthen the Halal Promotion Compliance in the region, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) started the construction of P1.99-M worth of small-scale halal feed mill at Barangay Muti, Guindulungan in Maguindanao on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. According to Senior Agriculturist Engr. Saidona Lawan, focal person for MAFAR Halal Development Program, the project sought to provide halal feeds to promote halal compliant poultry and fish production. “We proposed this project to ensure that we can provide and maintain halal compliant products starting from farm to plate,” Lawan said. The halal feed mill building has 150 square meters, capable of storing 500-600 sacks of

feeds. Guindulungan Municipal Administrator Datu Harabas Midtimbang expressed his gratitude to MAFAR for the continued program in their area, especially on the halal development program. “This is a big help for us to have a halal feed mill project that will ride in with our vision—to be an Islamic Center Municipality,” Midtimbang said. Earlier on April 28 this year, MAFAR officials have turned over the feed mill machine to its beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the construction is expected to be completed within 108 calendar days which will be turned over to Sisiman Agriculture Cooperative.

Kasan M. Usop, Jr./BIO

French gov’t to fund projects in BARMM, assist in peace-building

ARAWI CITY—The French government is set to fund projects in the Bangsamoro region to assist in the region’s peace-building and development activities. This is according to French Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency Michèle Boccoz after she paid a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, Wednesday, June 1. Boccoz said their presence in the BARMM was to listen and learn from the Chief Minister on how they can strategically support and assist within the aspect of the United Nations (UN) and convey the message of cooperation of the French government to the Bangsamoro region. “To start with an engagement, we will fund a project within the UN cooperation through ACTED (Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development) Philippines, for an inclusive and sustainable agriculture in the region tapping the women cooperatives,” said Boccoz. She said they had an initial talk with the Bangsamoro Women Commission about the partnership project and a fruitful meeting was already established. France is said to be a strong advocate of sustainable peace and long-term development in the BARMM. In response, Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim appreciated the initiatives and efforts of the French government to provide assistance and reach out to the region. “We appreciated very much and recognized the contribution of our international communities (United Nations) in actively participating in the peace building and development of our region,” said Chief Minister Ebrahim. “Our challenges in the peace agreement are mainly on the normalization process and hopefully, the international partners could help us transform our more than 40 camps into development areas,” he added. Chief Minister also mentioned some problems experienced in the island provinces on poor electricity and poor telecommunication connectivity. He also asked the party to help encourage the international communities, especially the private sector to invest in the region. “Although we have a lot of challenges in the region, poverty index for the past 2 years has been reduced which manifested our government is on track. As to Agriculture, we have high yields and lately, number 1 in fishery harvest in the country,” Chief Minister stressed. On the other hand, the ambassador’s party also mentioned three (3) priority agenda of the United Nations to be discussed in the new administration of the Philippine government, such as gender parity at all levels, preserving the gains of the peace process, and human rights resolution. “We are hoping that the new administration in the country will have the same arrangements with President Duterte’s government to respect and continue the implementation of agreed provisions in the peace process,” Chief Minister further stressed. However, while the party was focused initially on agriculture and environmental support in the region, they commended the crafting of the 2nd Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) as it would be the basis of the international communities on what areas of intervention and assistance they could extend in the region. Also included in the Ambassador’s party were UNRC Resident Coordinator Gustavo Fernando Gonzalez, UNRC Area Coordinator Stean Tshiband, French Embassy Cultural Advisor Marc Francois Claude Piton, French Embassy Political advisor Thomas Rollet, UNICEF Mindanao Field Office Chief Radoslaw Rzehak, ACTED Country Director Fabien Stephane Courtelle, UNRC Coordination Assistant Julie Villadolid, OCHA Cotabato City Head Melindi Malang, and UNFPA Head Cotabato City Rochelle Yu. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur)

Opinion

British Muslim scholars blast 'divisive, sectarian' film by hate preacher

2022 Maguindanao referendum: A test for unity in ruling ‘family alliance’ bloc

OUR months after the May 9, 2022 synchronized polls, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is expected to hold a plebiscite in Maguindanao for the ratification of R.A. 11550, according to a past pronouncement from the poll body. The law, which President Duterte signed on May 27, 2021, mandates the division of the province into Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur. It was conceived obviously to hasten growth in the province, particularly in the 36 constituent municipalities. Maguindanao del Norte will cover 12 towns, namely: Datu Blah Sinsuat, Barira, Buldon, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Matanog, Kabuntalan, North Upi, Parang, Northern Kabuntalan, Sultan Kudarat, Sultan Mastura, and Talitay. The law points to Datu Odin Sinsuat as a northern capital town. Maguindanao del Sur will comprise Ampatuan, Buluan, Datu Abdulla Sangki, Ali G. Macabalang Datu Anggal, Datu Hofer, Midtimbang, Datu Montawal, Datu Paglas, Datu Piang, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi, Datu Unsay, Gen. Salipada Pendatun, Paglat, Guindulungan, Mamasapano, Mangudadatu, Pagalungan, Pandag, Rajah Buayan, Shariff Aguak, Shariff Saydona Mustafa, Sultan-sa-Barongis, Talayan, and South Upi. Buluan is retained as the seat of the southern province. Upon enactment, R.A. 11550 was published in the Official Gazette as required for every new law before it could get implemented. Congressmen Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu and Ronnie Sinsuat of Maguindanao’s 2nd and first Districts, respectively, principal authors of the edict in the House of Representatives, were reportedly hopeful for the conduct of referendum in Maguindanao on before the May 9, 2022 elections. The optimism was bolstered by reports that the Maguindanao provincial government had set aside and reportedly disbursed some P120-million or so to bankroll the proceedings. But the Comelec announced later that the plebiscite was reset to a period four months after the 2022 elections. The deferment was reportedly meant for the polls body to prepare fully for the elections. But there were rumors that the deferment was instigated by a local political quarter for its own welfare. The four-month deferment will end on August 9 this year. The Comelec, unless it revokes its standing schedule, will likely hold the referendum in the later part of August or early days of September this year. The referendum, based on experts’ analysis, will be as intense as the highly-charged proceedings of local elections in Maguindanao. Majority if not all protagonists in the last provincial elections will be playing active roles either for the ratification or disapproval of R.A. 11550. Politicians composing the ruling “Family Alliance” bloc that mustered a sweep in the contests for provincial posts will likely be divided in referendum. The bloc is constituted by the clans of reelected Gov. Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu, Ampatuans and Midtimbangs of second district (proposed as Maguindanao del Sur), and Masturas, Sinsuats and Iranun politicians of the second district (eyed as Maguindanao del Norte). Practical reasons The family of outgoing Vice Governor Lester Sinsuat is expected to push for the approval or ratification of the law because the creation of Maguindanao del Norte will make his wife, Bai Ainee LimbonaSinsuat, OIC-governor. The wife was elected vice governor in the recent polls, while the husband was elected mayor of Datu Odin Sinsuat town. The Mastura clan led by outgoing Bangsamoro Parliament Member Tocao Mastura, who elected for nth time mayor of Sultan Kudarat town, and political leaders in the Iranun bloc long craving for their own political domain will likewise push for the creation of Maguindnao del Norte. In the present Maguindanao setup, the towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Sultan Kudarat and Parang are vote-rich. Parang town belongs to the Iranun political landscape. Outcomes of provincial elections have always been shaped by results from the three towns. The creation of Maguindanao del Norte would be a sort of revival of the Supreme Court-abolished Shariff Kabunsuan province. The 24member legislature of the defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) created such province in October 2006, resulting to the stewardship of then elected Maguindanao Vice Governor Bimbo Sinsuat as OIC-governor.

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

Punchline

MACABALANG | A2

mid nationwide protests against the controversial movie 'Lady Of Heaven', British Muslim scholars gathered in Birmingham on Friday to condemn the controversial movie. Representatives from the Shia, Sunni, and Sufi Islamic schools of thought signed a joint statement slamming the film as "divisive and sectarian." Released in the UK on June 3rd, the film depicts the life and death of Fatima Zahra, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad. However, the controversial depiction of the Holy Prophet's spouse and

companions has sparked protests in several countries. Following the backlash, British media adopted the narrative of the movie writer and hate preacher Yasser Habib, portraying the protests as a Shia-Sunni conflict. Clearly, the divisive and sectarian narrative adopted by the British mainstream media is false. However, will the British mainstream adopt these types of events in their coverage or just continue to peddle the divisive narrative put out by the producers of this film? Robert Carter/Press TV

HADITH HEART. Beware! verily there is a piece of flesh in the body of man, which when good, the whole body is good; and when bad, the whold body is bad, and that is the heart. Muhammad said, "O Wabisah! are you come to ask what is goodness and what is badness?" Wabisah said, "Yes, I am come for that." Then He joined his fingers and struck them upon Wabisah's breast, that is made a sign towards his heart, and said, "Ask the question from thine own heart." This he repeated three times aloud and said, "Goodness is a thing from which thy heart findeth firmness and rest; and badness is a thing which throweth thee into doubt, although men may acquit thee." (Prophet Mohammad saw) Philippine Muslim Today Inc. SEC Co. Reg. No. 2021030008913-02 TIN: 602-795-878-00000 PHILGEPS Red Registration ID No. 287438

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

MASIDING NOOR YAHYA Publisher and Executive Editor

Marawi Rehab

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

27 IDPs complete dressmaking training, receive starter kits BY APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN | Marawi City

ome 27 displaced women have now obtained new skills that they can use as they rebuild their lives and recover from the effects of the 2017 Marawi siege. These women completed their skills trainThe project addresses the major drivers of instability and displacement by providing livelihood assistance, establishing community-based psychosocial support mechanisms, and constructing key infrastructure. “Our project reflects the Korean government's firm resolve to help the people of Marawi and neighboring areas recover and improve their socioeconomic situations,” said KOICA Assistant Country Director Younlee Kim. The training was held from December 21, 2021 to February 14, 2022 and provided by H. Hassan Institute of Technology, Inc. The trainees also underwent and passed the NC II assessment by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. Apart from the training, the trainees received start -up kits from IOM and KOICA to assist them as they begin new means of livelihood. “I congratulate our youth and women graduates for completing the

ing on Dressmaking NC II under the “Driving Marawi's Rehabilitation through IDP Support, Community Development, and Peaceful Transitional Action” project of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency Philippines (KOICA).

Completers of the Dressmaking NC II training initiated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency Philippines (KOICA) show their certificates of completion. They also receive dressmaking starter kits after their graduation ceremony. (Michael John Paclar / PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

technical-vocational training on dressmaking. I am confident that your training would give you more access to livelihood and employment opportunities,” Kim said during the May 30 graduation and handover ceremony. Matthew Aaron Bidder, IOM Mindanao Head of Programmes, who was also present during the

ceremony likewise congratulated the successful trainees. “This is not the end, this is really the beginning. The handover of these livelihood starter kits is the start of the next steps in your journey," he said. All the 27 trainees are thankful to the two humanitarian organizations for equipping them with

new skills and providing start-up kits. "Ako ay masaya dahil may binigay na opportunity sa amin. Kung ako ay papanaw, pwede kong iwanan ito sa aking pamilya. Aalagaan namin ito at pauunlarin," said Omaimah Macapaar, one of the IDP graduates. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

Dela Rosa lauds TFBM, IDPs for Marawi rehab efforts MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa commended the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and the internally displaced persons (IDPs) for taking their share of responsibilities in the rehabilitation of the siegestricken city. In his message during the soft opening of Sarimanok Sports Stadium Friday, May 20, he magnified the task force and its component agencies as the frontliners in restoring the most affected area (MAA) on behalf of the national government. “Alam ko na napakaraming challenges na kinaharap ninyo sa inyong efforts dito sa rebuilding ng Marawi but still, hindi kayo nawalan ng lakas ng

loob. Itinuloy ninyo ang inyong hangarin na maibangon muli ang Marawi. Maraming salamat sa Task Force Bangon Marawi,” said Dela Rosa. [I know that these were so many challenges you faced with your efforts here in rebuilding Marawi but still, you have not lost courage. You have pursued your desire of rebuilding Marawi. Thank you so much to Task Force Bangon Marawi.] Further, recognize displaced residents for their resilience, patience, and understanding. “Sa mga residente ng most affected area at other affected areas ng Marawi City kung saan nakita talaga natin ang kanilang resilience at pagsisikap na makabangon muli, ako ay humahanga

sa inyong patience at pag -intindi sa gobyerno. Maraming salamat, Marawi siege victims,” said Dela Rosa. [To the residents of the most affected area and other affected areas in Marawi City wherein we can see their resilience and effort to rise again, I am in awe of your patience and understanding for the government. Thank you so much, Marawi siege victims.] With the overall performance of the rehabilitation program here, the senator, being the chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation, expressed his happiness as he saw that the endeavors here were effective and bearing positive results. As such, he likewise

looked forward that this might be an instrument for putting more hope in the government and its aim for the betterment of its people. “Sana ay ito ang magiging transportasyon ng ating mga kababayan towards the road of recovery. Sana ito ay maging simbolo na ang ating gobyerno ay hindi tayo iniwan, tayo ay sinasamahan sa panahon ng paghihirap at ginagabayan sa ating pagbangon,” said Dela Rosa. [I hope this will be the transportation of our countrymen towards the road of recovery. I hope this will become the symbol that our government never left us, was with us in the time of difficulties, and guided us for our rise.] CLAIRE R. GIGJE

Displaced locals hail new homes from UN-Habitat, Japan gov’t

ARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Displaced residents here celebrated and delivered their gratefulness as they were handed over new homes where their families can already dwell for good. This, as a total of 1,000 permanent housing units were completely constructed by the United Nations Human Settlement Programme (UN-Habitat) under the Rebuilding Marawi through Community-driven Shelter and Livelihood Project funded by the Japan government, and the land development made possible by the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC). Internally displaced person (IDP) Ashari Macaraya Bani who received a unit in the UN-Habitat’s share at Pamayandeg sa Ranao Residences at Dansalan (PRRD) at Brgy. Kilala shared that during the dawning of the firefight in the city, he and his family evacuated and failed to anticipate the end of the conflict as they initially expected that after the shortest time, they would be able to return to their home. He stated that little did they know that the siege would last for five months and they were in agony as they were put in the situation of being uncomfortable staying in a place that was far from what they call home. Bani cited that during their suffering, they were favored enough to have the UN-Habitat which did not only provide them well-built shelter but also assistance for their sustenance. “Satisfied kami kasi ang UN-Habitat ay nagbigay naman sa amin ng livelihood kapalit ng mga nasirang kabuhayan sa Marawi. Nagagalak kami kasi iyong mga nasirang bahay namin sa Marawi ay napalitan naman ng kaaya-aya naman… Kahit mumunti siya pero malaking kayamanan na rin sa amin ito kasi malaki napalitan ang mga nasirang tahanan namin,” he said. [We are satisfied because the UN-Habitat gave us livelihood to replace our destroyed livelihood in Marawi. We are happy because our destructed house in Marawi was replaced with one that is nice… Although it is quite small, it is already a wealth to us because it replaced our destroyed house.] Another IDP Palawan Macaayan who now lives in the same community recalled that alongside their urgent leave from their old house at ground zero was the devastation of their properties. He said they had nothing when they moved out but with the helping hand of the government and nongovernment organizations such as the UN-Habitat, their struggles were at least eased. “Maraming naiwan namin na kagamitan. Sabi ko, sige nalang. Ang importante makalaya tayo dito… Satisfied na kami [ngayon] dahil may lugar na matutulugan nang mabuti. Satisfied na satisfied kami,” he said. [We left a lot of things. I said, that is just okay. What is important is that we would be free from this… [Now,] we are already satisfied because we already have a place where we can sleep well. We are very satisfied.] Oling Manalo, on the other hand, an IDP residing currently at one of the UN-Habitat’s founded communities called Norsalam Village, conveyed her deepest gratitude to the people of Japan for their generosity, and for giving them the means to start anew and rebuild their lives and dignity. She stressed that it was not just houses that the UN-Habitat built but the organization likewise aided them to regain our confidence even as they became known as IDPs. Manalo assured the donors that while they enjoy the bestowed blessings, they will nurture it properly in consideration of the great effort extended to them. “To everyone who contributed to our rebuilding journey, Alhamdullilah, maraming salamat. We are fortunate to have people like you who did not hesitate to help us… In return, Inshaallah, we will take good care of this immeasurable gift and we will continue to maintain what the Rebuilding Marawi Project had started. We will work together in promoting peacebuilding, safeguarding the environment, managing our new communities, finding sufficient income for our families, and supporting one another to heal the scars in our hearts,” she said. With the successful implementation of the housing project of the UN-Habitat, residents who once resided within the six-meter easement along Lake Lanao and Agus River in the city benefited. CLAIRE R. GIGJE

News

No Covid-19 surge due to non-stop vaccination: Galvez BY LADE JEAN KABAGANI | Manila

he Philippines keeping coronavirus cases low and not recording a surge for months is a "major accomplishment" and a result of the government’s continuous vaccination activities nationwide, said Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., the National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 chief implementer. Latest data as of June 8 from the National Vaccination Operations Center (NVOC) showed that the Philippines has fully vaccinated 71,090,091 Filipinos with primary Covid-19 doses. About 14,355,799 eligible individuals received a third dose or first booster shot. “There has been no surge in infections recorded recently because of the continuous vaccination being carried out by local government units nationwide,” Galvez said in a recent interview. “This is a major accomplishment considering that there have been a lot of superspreader events in the past months, which include the national elections, Ramadan, Holy

Week, the resumption of on-site work reporting, and the further easing of restrictions." The Philippines only recorded 2,437 active Covid-19 cases as of Wednesday. “These positive developments will help more Filipinos bounce back from the health crisis, and enable the next administration to sustain and build on these gains,” Galvez said. The government has earlier targeted fully vaccinating at least 70 million Filipinos to achieve the

country’s population protection against Covid-19, as approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). “Ang WHO po ay ay talagang tuwang-tuwa din dahil (The WHO is also happy because) there are only few countries who have accomplished ‘yung 70 million fully-vaccinated people. And isa po ang Pilipinas na sinasabi nilang napakaganda ng pagarangkada sa vaccination (And they said the Philippines is one of the countries that have a good

vaccination drive),” Galvez said. Galvez said the current Covid-19 situation in the country will help more Filipinos to bounce back into normalcy. “We were able to save more lives without compromising our economy. We are now on the road towards full recovery,” he added. “We are confident that the incoming administration will build upon these developments, sustain the government’s vaccination efforts, and effectively lead the nation to the new normal.” (PNA)

BBM, Sotto meet to discuss drug prevention, rehab program MANILA – President-elect Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and outgoing Senate President Vicente Sotto III recently met to discuss the latter’s proposals to reform drug users.

Sotto confirmed in a text message Tuesday night that he presented his “Drug Abuse Prevention and Correct Rehabilitation” program to his former Senate colleague who invited him to his office on May 28. He told the Philippine News Agency through a Viber message that he can help Marcos in a "consultative" capacity. "Consultative would be enough, I suppose. PBBM supports my proposal of giving strong support for drug abuse prevention and rehabilitation," Sotto said. The program, Sotto said, aims to prevent illegal drug abuse through a resistance education program

for fifth to seventh graders who are at vulnerable ages. He added there will be constant seminars, programs and conferences involving parents, teachers, media, the Church, sports personalities, and the general public. He pointed out that a correct drug rehabilitation program must have all types of approaches for each drug dependent, which include therapeutic, faith-based, and multidisciplinary activities, patterned after the United States-based 12-step program Minnesota addiction recovery. According to the program website, the model was first used in a state mental hospital in the 1950s and focuses first on abstinence from illegal substances. Each treatment program is uniquely designed to meet the patient’s needs and address specific issues around addiction. During the campaign period, Marcos said he would expand drug rehabilitation facilities in the provinces and vowed to go after big-time drug dealers. Sotto, who headed the Dangerous Drugs Board from July 2008 to November 2009, is also known as the author of Republic Act (RA) 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. RA 9165 created the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the lead agency in preventing, investigating, and combating dangerous drugs and related illegal activities.

Wilnard Bacelonia/PNA

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

Flexi work 'new normal' in gov't: CSC

ANILA – The flexible work arrangement in the public sector is the Civil Service Commission's (CSC) "answer" to the new normal seen to be effective even after the pandemic. In a televised public briefing, CSC commissioner Aileen Lizada said the institutionalization of the flexible work arrangement is the commission’s “answer to the new normal for the government” so it can continue providing efficient public service. “Na-experience ng HR [human resources] ng 1.7 million employees ‘yung challenges natin during the pandemic kaya naka-issue tayo earlier ng dalawang MC [memorandum circular] covering ho ito - MC 10 and 18 – kaso ang MCs na ito ay hanggang (The HR, the 1.7 million employees the challenges during the pandemic so we issued earlier two MCs covering this – MC 10 and 18 – however these MCs are until) September only 2022 which is just up to the date of declaration of national emergency or unless earlier revoked,” she said. CSC Resolution No. 2200209 or the approved flexible work arrangement was published last May 31 and will take effect 15 days after its publication or on June 15. The flexible work arrangements are subject to the discretion of the head of agency on the condition that all their stakeholders are assured of continuous delivery of services from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It provides safe workspaces for government officials and employees as they perform their public service duties. It also provides reasonable work arrangements for senior citizens, pregnant and nursing mothers, immunocompromised persons with chronic conditions, and those who suffered from accidents affecting their mobility but can still work physically and mentally. “Kaya minabuti po ng komisyon na institutionalize ang polisiya on flexible work arrangements para kung anong dumating sa atin (The commission institutionalized the policy on flexible work arrangements so that whatever comes to us), we are able to anticipate, the heads of agencies will be able to adapt easily, and we are an agile HR,” Lizada said. The flexible work arrangement in the government applies to employment with regular appointments – those that were submitted to the CSC like permanent, temporary, substitute, provisional, co-terminus, fixed term, casual and contractual position. “’Yung mga COS [contract of service] and job orders (JOs) po, hindi sila covered ng polisya na ito (The COS and JOs are not covered by this policy), but the DBM [Department of Budget and Management] and COA [Commission on Audit] may formulate a parallel issuance for the COS and JO in consideration of this policy,” she added. The work arrangements include: (1) Flexiplace - officials and employees may be authorized to render services away from their office; (2) Compressed work week - the 40-hour work week is compressed into four days or less, instead of five; (3) Skeleton workforce - a minimum number of personnel will be required to report to the office when full staffing is not possible; (4) Work shifting for agencies required by law to operate 24/7 or agencies required to observe workplace health and safety protocols; (5) Flexitime, where employees are allowed to report between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. provided they complete the required 40-hour workweek; and (6) Combination of flexible work arrangements that may be adopted by an agency according to what is appropriate or applicable to its mandate and functions.

MA. TERESA MONTEMAYOR /PNA

MABUHAY ang manggagawang mamamahayag.

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EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS

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This EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH BANK ACCOUNT of the late SAIDA M. TOMADUNG made and entered into by and between: TALIB B. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, surviving spouse of SAIDA M. TOMADUNG, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City. JAMAIL M. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, single, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City;

JAMIL M. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, married, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City; JAMAL M. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, single, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City; JOBAIRA M. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, married, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City; JABBAR M. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, single, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City; JONAIRAH M. TOMADUNG of legal age, Filipino, single, and with resident at Brgy. Panggao Saduc, Marawi City; WITNESSETH THAT, we are the legitimate children and her husband as the sole heirs of the late SAIDA M. TOMDUNG who died on September 22, 2021, at Amai Pakpak Medical Center, Brgy. Datu Saber, Marawi City without any will or testament and without any outstanding debts or obligations in favor to any person or entity, a copy of her Certificate of Death is hereto attached as Annex “A”;

THAT the said SAIDA M. TOMADUNG, at time of his death, is a holder of an active savings account with the Philippine National Bank – Marawi City-MSU Campus Branch with Account number 411260175236; THAT we, TALIB B. TOMANDUNG the surviving spouse and JAMAEL M. TOMADUNG, JAMIL M. TOMADUNG, JAMAL M. TOMADUNG, JOBAIRA M. TOMADUNG, JABBAR M. TOMADUNG, and JONAIRAH M. TOMADUNG, are the only children of SAIDA M. TOMADUNG, by these presents and pursuant to Section 1 of Rule 74 of the Revised Rules of Court of the Philippines, hereby agrees to adjudicate unto ourselves the said estate, the proceeds of the above-described savings account, of our late mother, and by this Extra-Judicial Settlement of Estate with Waiver of Rights, that our father, TALIB B. TOMADUNG the surviving spouse, hereby expressly and voluntarily cede and transfer all our rights. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto signed this AGREEMENT this 1st day of June, 2022 in the City of Marawi, Province of Lanao del Sur, Philippines. (Sgd) THE HEIRS OF SAIDA M. TOMADUNG (Sgd) TALIB B. TOMANDUNG (Sgd) JAMAEL M. TOMADUNG (Sgd) JAMIL M. TOMADUNG (Sgd) JAMAL M. TOMADUNG (Sgd) JOBAIRA M. TOMADUNG (Sgd) JABBAR M. TOMADUNG (Sgd) JONAIRAH M. TOMADUNG Signed in the presence of:

RA Form No. 10.1 (LCRO) Republic of the Philippines Local Civil Registry Office Province: Lanao Del Sur City/Municipality: Marawi NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. Act No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that ANA NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from SITTIE NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI to ANA NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI in the birth certificate of SITTIE NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI who was born on SEPTEMBER 16, 1991 at MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR and whose parents are NOURODIN MALAWANI MOTI and NORALIE MOMPONG SULTAN. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than JUNE 21, 2022. (SGD) RAWIA NAGA PANGADAPUN CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

(SGD) NORKISA D. MANGAGAO

AKNOWLEDGEMENT Republic of the Philippines) City of Marawi ) S.s Province of Lanao del Sur BEFORE ME, a Notary Public, for and in the City of Marawi, this 1st day of June, 2022 personally appeared: Namely:

Identification Card:

TALIB M. TOMANDUNG

GSIS ID CRN-006-0080-5653-9

JAMAIL M. TOMANDUNG

PASSPORT ID P0651545B

JAMIL M. TOMANDUNG

DRIVER’S LICENSE MO5-03-016922

JAMAL M/ TOMANDING

TIN NUMBER 430-515-031-000

JOBAIRA M. TOMANDUNG

PHILHEALTH 20-025008547-7

JABBAR M. TOMANDUNG

PHILHEALTH 20-025010024-7

JONAIRAH M. TOMANDUNG

TIN NUMBER 513-211-740-00000

KNOWN TO ME to be the same persons who executed the foregoing instrument and hereby acknowledged to me that the same is their free and voluntary act and deed. This instrument consisting of Three (3) pages, including this page on which this acknowledgement is written refers to an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE and has been signed by the parties and their witnesses and sealed with my notarial seal. WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL, at Iligan City, Philippines on FEB 04 2022.

(SGD) ATTY. DIMAPUNO RAMOS DATU NOTARY PUBLIC UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2022 IBP NO. 113388 JAN. 10, 2021 MARAWI CITY PTR NO. 7571268 JAN. 6, 2022 MARAWI CITY LANAO DEL SUR ATTY. ROLL NO. 23420 MCLE COMPLIANCE NO. (VI-0027733 04-14-2022 MANILA

PMT: May 27-June 2, 2022; June 3-9, 2022; June 10-16, 2022.

ERRATUM The NOTICE OF PUBLICATION published in the issues of Philippine Muslim Today of May 27, June 3, and June 10, 2022, which reads as follows: “In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. Act No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that ANNA NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from SITTIE NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI to ANNA NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI in the birth certificate of SITTIE NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI who was born on SEPTEMBER 16, 1991, at MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR and whose parents are NOURODIN MALAWANI MOTI and NORALIE MOMPONG SULTAN…” should have read as: “In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. Act No. 9048, a notice is hereby served to the public that ANA NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI has filed with this office a petition for change of first name from SITTIE NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI to ANA NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI in the birth certificate of SITTIE NORSHIDA SULTAN MOTI who was born on SEPTEMBER 16, 1991, at MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR and whose parents are NOURODIN MALAWANI MOTI and NORALIE MOMPONG SULTAN.”

(SGD) HALA ALISSAH A. ABDUL JAHI

Doc. No. 486 Page No. 97 Book No. 49 Series of 2022.

PMT: May 27-June 2, 2022; June 3-9, 2022; June 10-16, 2022.

RA Form No. 10.1 (LCRO) Republic of the Philippines Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao CITY GOVERNMENT OF MARAWI OFFICE OF THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

UN-Habitat caps 1K Japan-funded permanent houses in Marawi BY CLAIRE GIGJE MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The United Nations Human Settlement Programme (UN-Habitat) has finally concluded the implementation of its Rebuilding Marawi Project for the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the city as the remaining 462 units were handed over to rightful recipients Thursday, May 19. Since the inception of its program, the UN-Habitat has already handed over a total of 1,000 permanent housing units with the overall funding of the people of Japan amounting to USD10 million, and with the land acquired and developed by the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC). Target beneficiaries included affected families who used to live within the six-meter easement along Lake Lanao and Agus River. “This is in line with the UN-Habitat’s global role as the custodian of a sustainable development goal to make cities and communities safe, inclusive, resilient and sustainable. This includes ensuring that people have access to adequate shelter while reducing the number of people impacted by disasters,” said UNHabitat Regional Office for Asia and Pacific Regional Representative Atsushi Koresawa in his relayed message. UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez stressed that while they strive to push the goal of their project, they ascertained that their grantees and other appropriate parties would be involved to ensure that Maranao culture will surely be embraced and reflected in their project. “The Rebuilding Marawi Project was implemented using a People’s Process where families were actively involved in all stages of the rebuilding process including selecting the location of the resettlement sites, codesigning the site considering how Maranao communities live together and according to Maranao and Islamic culture and traditions, embarking on livelihood ventures following Islamic principles in business and finance, and closely working with national and local government as well as traditional and religious leaders,” he said. Gonzalez said they pursued this initiative as they recognized that shelter assistance would be at the heart of recovery for people who lost their homes and belongings as a result of wars and conflicts as proven by their prior experiences and encounters. He stated that with the wrapping up of their project, they celebrated as well the importance of shelter to promote immediate and long-term recovery. Notwithstanding the turnover of the last batch of permanent houses to IDPs, the UN assured that it has and will continue to back the city as it journeys on the road of recovery. “The United Nations stands in solidarity with the people of Marawi in rebuilding their lives. Giving them decent shelter is a critical first step. And, I thank our partners for making it possible for them to take this first step,” said Gonzalez. Apart from the permanent shelters, the UNHabitat likewise launched its knowledge products consisting of four-volume books containing the period of the project implementation and the Multi-Purpose Center erected at the heart of the villages built by the organization. In total, UN-Habitat founded six communities under the rehabilitation. These are Hadiya Village, Darussalam Village, Norsalam Village, Pamayandeg sa Ranao Residences at Dansalan situated separately in Barangays Kilala and Mipantao Gadongan, and a resettlement site owned by city government. (CRG/PIA10/Lanao del Sur)

Re: Petition for correction of entry in sex/gender from MALE to FEMALE in the certificate of live birth of HAKEEMA LAGO PANDAPATAN. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than JUNE 30, 2022. (SGD) RAWIA NAGA PANGADAPUN CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR

From the Editors PMT: June 10-16, 2022.

The Hadiya Village is just one of the six communities founded by the United Nations Human Settlement Program (UNHabitat). In total, 1,000 permanent houses are completed by the organization as part of its commitment to rehabilitating Marawi City. (PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

NEWS

White Shroud

Dev’t orgs, gov’t aim for sustainability of LDS econ growth

By GAMSON JR MAWALLIL QUIJANO

A nurse nor a doctor she's neither But she’s clad in white when I saw her Into my ears some words she whispered Muted I trembled so out of fear Beloved around her are screaming Some just observed some reminiscing Unspoken words hang in the air Inside my mind reverberating

With the stars she used to play Travel afar she could anyday To the moon, she could reach by car But, she ended up a falling star Eminent life she thought wouldn’t end Like in her world life be ever so grand Her shed tears deepen like an ocean How sad, to reform elude her mind.

DAR's "P20/kilo of rice" receives support from TF Mapalad

he Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) found support from the Task Force Mapalad (TFM) in its initiative to bring down rice prices to around P20 per kilo as the latter backed the agency’s Mega Farm Project. The Mega Farm Project is a cluster of contiguous farms that are consolidated to form a sizable plantation capable of producing a large volume of farm products to meet the demand of consumers.

DAR Secretary Bernie Cruz In a statement, TFM, a federation of agrarian reform beneficiaries and landless peasants, stressed that they support the Mega Farm Project but to make it happen, it requires a strong political will of the next administration. To realize its objective, TFM provided some suggestions in a move to fine-tune the project, which include the government’s guarantee that banks should expand their credit portfolio in the countryside, and that the DAR should commit itself to providing farmers crucial inputs like fertilizer, pesticide, and fuel at lower prices, among others. Meanwhile, DAR Secretary Bernie F. Cruz was pleased to know that TFM sees the potential of Mega Farm Project in bringing down the price of rice. “We are open to constructive inputs and suggestions that are viable in ensuring the success of this project,” he said. Cruz divulged that the DAR continues to do researches and craft policies on the project also dubbed as “Programang Benteng Bigas sa Mamamayan” (PBBM) to ensure that it is not just achievable, but also profitable for the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs). “Based on our studies, the 150,000-hectare can produce an average of 142 cavans of rice per hectare per cropping season. This translates to a gain of P76,501.00 annually for ARBs,” he said. The Secretary continued that Filipinos have a daily average per capita consumption of rice at 109.9 kilograms per year and with that figure, the project can feed around 9 million people. “With strong political will and support from various farmers’ groups and other sectors, our aspiration would be achieved sooner,” Cruz said. (DAR story)

Vol. II, No. 52 | June 10-16, 2022 (Zulqaida 10-16, 1443)

BY CLAIRE GIGJE | Marawi City

ighlighting the rise of the economic status of the province of Lanao del Sur brought about by the reduction of its poverty incidence in 2021, the international non -government organization Plan International through its Marawi Response Project (MRP) alongside the provincial government, and other development partners and humanitarian organizations now eye for the sustainability of the said economic progress. Intending to thoroughly tackle the concern, a provincial economic forum was recently spearheaded to convene members of the Task Force Bangon Marawi’s (TFBM’s) Subcommittee on Business and Livelihood and pitch in feasible ideas for the sustainability of the economic progress of the province which shall then be integrated to the existing sustainability plan of the subcommittee. Plan International MRP Economic Development Leader Lauro Tito Ilagan stated said they are primarily bringing in appropriate organizations involved in humanitarian efforts and programs that are engaged in the rehabilitation of Marawi City to solicit solutions to maintain the reduction of the province's poverty incidence and still move forward even when the partner donors and organizations of the province will no longer be around. “It is basically the input session as well as we are going to be identifying, brainstorming to come up with ways on how we can specifically do that… That is why we are doing this now because we want to share to them this particular good news, try to dissect and understand how that happened, and come up with ways on how the province can have a lasting kind of improvement,” he said.

A provincial economic forum is led by Plan International and members of the Subcommittee on Business and Livelihood of the Task Force Bangon Marawi to discuss the sustainability of the economic progress of Lanao del Sur province. (Michael John Paclar/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur) Ilagan stressed that Plan International has already been periodically conducting a similar initiative of magnifying the economic status of the province with other development partners and humanitarian organizations under the TFBM’s Subcommittee on Business and Livelihood. As such, he conveyed that the recent forum was not the first to have been held as in October 2021, they have already gathered the same target participants to come up with a sustainability plan and specific formula for the creation of programs and activities specifically for IDP enterprises in Lanao del Sur. Ilagan also stressed that the prior convention has not anticipated the development of the province in its economy where it managed to lift

itself from the list of top 10 poorest provinces of the country, thus, the need for another economic forum to factor in this situation. With the event, the economic development leader expressed his happiness and optimism that they may be able to keep the betterment the province of Lanao del Sur deserves. “We are very thankful to the donor community, particularly members of the Mindanao humanitarian team Lanao cluster for enthusiastically participating in this process. We hope that this will have very significant outputs that we can use and eventually present to the Task Force Bangon Marawi’s Subcommittee on Business and Livelihood. This will translate eventually to a plan of action for all of us moving forward,” he said. (CRG/PIA-10/ Lanao del Sur)

IDPs thank IOM, KOICA for livelihood support MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)— Internally displaced persons (IDPs) who benefitted from the livelihood interventions of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency Philippines (KOICA) are thankful as they can now start their own garments business. A widow with six children, Normina Adilao said she could barely manage their expenses with the income she earned from laundry services. She is thankful to IOM for she can now start her own garments business with the starter kit and training she received from the humanitarian organization. “Maraming salamat sa IOM kasi binigyan kami ng mga tulong, ng mga materials [thanks to IOM for giving us the help, materials],” she said. Samilah Barabadan is also grateful to IOM and KOICA. A solo parent of seven, Barabadan said the livelihood assistance is a big help to her family. She promised to take good care of her new livelihood and sustain it for the future of her children. A tearful Omaimah Macapaar likewise conveyed her gratitude to the two organizations for the help extended to her.

"Ako ay masaya dahil may binigay na opportunity sa amin. Kung ako ay papanaw, pwede kong iwanan ito sa aking pamilya. Aalagaan namin ito at pauunlarin [I am happy because we have been given an opportunity. If I pass away, I can leave it to my family. We will take care of this and make it grow]," she said. Adilao, Barabadan, and Macapaar are among the 27 women who completed the Dressmaking NC II training and subsequently received start-up toolkits under the livelihood component of the 'Driving Marawi’s Rehabilitation through IDP Support, Community Development, and Peaceful Transitional Action’ project implemented by IOM and KOICA. APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN