Philippine Muslim Today newspaper by Philippine Muslim Today

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Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

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Stranded Filipino for Hajj begin flights to KSA - Page A2

PALPAK C

NCMF measures to resolve the crisis affecting Filipino pilgrims are “too good to be true.”

alls have been expressed in Social Media platforms for top officials in the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and its Bureau of Pilgrimage and Endowment

A2 BANGSAMORO REGION

A6 FOREIGN NEWS

BY MASIDING NOOR YAHYA | Manila

A5 AROUND THE COUNTRY

(BPE) to resign amidst an unprecedented mess they are involved causing too much agony and pains on hundreds, if not thousands of intending Filipino pilgrims this year’s hajj season.

What happened? Hundreds of Filipino pilgrims bound for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to per-

Full Story on Page A4

A8 CULTURE & TOURISM

BBM asked to create ‘Search Committee’ for BTA applicants

July voters’ registration Indonesia urges Asean to include transfer, to mitigate hurdles of reactivation exports to US

TOURISM: Explore the beauty of Tawi-Tawi!

A new Bangsamoro group has asked President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to create a ‘Search Committee’ to help screen applicants for the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

The resumption of the voter's registration from July 4 to 23 for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) will include other transactions like transfer...

The Bangsamoro Government invites everyone to see the hidden gems of Tawi-Tawi, one of the nisland provinces of the autonomous region and experience destinations like no other!

The resumption of the voter's registration from July 4 to 23 for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) will include other transactions like transfer...

BARMM launches Negosyo Center in Sibutu, promises more projects SIBUTU, TAWI-TAWI — The Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT) of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

(BARMM) recently launched the Negosyo Center in Tawi-Tawi Municipality of Sibutu. Negosyo Center is responsible in promoting

ease of doing business and facilitating access to services for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Go Negosyo Act man-

dates the establishment of Negosyo Center in all municipalities and cities in the country Municipal Mayor Alshefa J. Pajiji ex-

pressed gratitude for the establishment of the Negosyo Center as he appealed for cooperation of everyone for the betterBARMM | A10

News

Bangsamoro Government:

BBM asked to create ‘Search Committee’ for BTA applicants

LIGAN CITY — As Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (BBM) is expected to appoint the 80 members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) after he officially assumes as Philippine chief executive on June 30, a Bangsamoro group has asked him to create a ‘Search Committee’ to help in screening applicants for the interim authority which is the governing body of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

Hajj 2022:

Stranded Filipino pilgrims begin flights to KSA for the Hajj BY JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL | Quezon City

tranded Filipino pilgrims have resumed taking their flights to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after the problem on hajj visa has been re-

solved, according to the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).

From right to left: NCMF Secretary Atty. Guiling Mamondiong, Hon Judge Moslemen Macarambon and Jastine Ann Alabata, SAUDIA Exective in charge for Hajj after their meeting at SAUDIA Office. (NCMF supplied photo)

President-elect Ferdinand “BBM” Marcos Jr. FILE Abulkhair Alibasa, regional coordinator for Central and Northern Mindanao, in an open letter to Marcos furnished to Philippine Muslim Today newspaper, said the Search Committee can help in finding the most, right, and ideal members of the BARMM-BTA that will handle the region until the 2025 Election. “The members of the search committee should come from the various sectors representing the different stakeholders of the autonomous region such as the women, academe, professionals, NGOs, religious, business sectors among others,” said Alibasa. He said the Bangsamoro Organic Law, as amended, which created BARMM, the President shall appoint the 80 members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to serve until 2025 Election. He said the prospective BTA members shall demonstrate their respective qualifications, capabilities, and platforms to improve the region in a Public Forum to be conducted and supervised by the Search Committee in coordination with the DILG-National. Among the selection procedures to be conducted the Committee include that applicants shall, in a 5minute deliberation, present their legislative agenda for the autonomous region, including peace and order, health, education, agriculture, cleansing the election process in the region, improving basic service delivery, ensuring transparency, and curbing corruption, as well as their proposed amendments to BOL if any, and how the BARMM will be effective partner by the National Government for better Philippines to be followed by a ‘Question and Answer’ portion with the panelists and the audience. The group suggested a forum to be held in the five (5) provinces of the BARMM and shall form part of the activities of the Screening Committee to ensure the smooth, orderly, and equitable implementation of its mandate to screen and recommend the most suitable persons for the positions in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao-Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BARMM-BTA). “From the lens of civil society organizations in Marawi City and Lanao del Sur of which our group is a member, we would always claim that as far as Bangsamoro Region is concerned, we need to be consulted and involved on the pretext of “nothing about us, without us,” the group open letter said.

MASIDING NOOR YAHYA

NCMF Commissioner Yusoph Mando, newly designated spokesman of the Commission, said this was resolved by the NCMF management team, now Crisis Team, with the support of the Saudi Ambassador to the Philippines, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Muassasah and the service provider Accordingly, two special flights to accommodate the stranded pilgrims have been assured by the Saudi Airlines and another standby aircraft is ready for departure on condition that visas for the stranded pilgrims are already issued. The NCMF Management Team headed by Secretary Gene Mamondiong personally con-

ferred with the management of Saudia Airline in their office to finalize the arrangement for at least two special flights to accommodate the stranded pilgrims which Saudia representative already committed to the Secretary during the Hajj Crisis Management Team meeting with the partner airlines yesterday. The list of the stranded pilgrims with issued visa is now being completed by the BPE. The BPE informed the Commission that majority of the stranded pilgrims from June 19 have already been issued visa while the rest is already being processed. This list, which will be updated in real-time is now ready and available

at the BPE, and will be furnished to the management of Saudia Airline to finalize the new date of flight schedules for the stranded pilgrims. On the financial issue the management team which has been converted to a Crisis Management Team is urging any interested party to check the money paid by the intending pilgrims, they can check with PNB if it has been used for other purposes except for the Mutawwif and other authorized fees of the pilgrims. To ease the tension among the pilgrims the commission upon the initiative of the management is extending financial assistance and accommodation of the stranded pilgrims

The management team which is now the Crisis Management Team has created a core group out of its members composed of Commissioner Yusoph Mando as Chairman, Executive Director Taher Lidasan, Commissioner Mike Mamukid, Commissioner Samer Allong, Comm. Jamal Munib, Comm. Ras Lidasan, Comm Karima Mindalano. The Management also announced the creation of the Office of the Spokesperson and his deputies that is tasked to give the public all the necessary information about the operation of the commission, its projects and programs in the name of transparency and accountability. (JIJ)

MP Mitmug asks Bangsamoro govt to send delegation to look at condition of stranded Hujjaj in Manila COTABATO CITY – Member of Bangsamoro Parliament Rasol Y. Mitmug Jr. has asked the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to send an official delegation to the National Capital Region to look at the condition of the stranded Filipino pilgrims who failed to take their flights to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, one of the pillars of Islam. In a speech at the Bangsamoro Transition Authority Parliament, lawyer Mitmug said that while various local government units, institutions and individuals have taken concerns on the sufferings of the stranded Hajj pilgrims, what many people have been expecting also is an institutional concern from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL YAHYA

News

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

Lanao, Maguindanao power coops to settle debts with PSALM

BARMM launches Negosyo Center in Sibutu… from Page A1

BY NORALYN A. MACABALANG

OTABATO CITY – The electric cooperatives in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao have pledged to settle mounting debts in billions with the Power Sector Assets and LiabiliThe NEA, in a report published recently by a national daily, confirmed that the Lanao del Sur Cooperative (Lasureco) leadership met with the PSALM officialdom on June 8 along with local government officials to discuss its payments in arrears so far accounted at P12.9 billion. NEA Administrator Emmanuel P. Juaneza said Lasureco will submit to PSALM a letter of commitment outlining its payment plans, and that he would ask the NEA Board of Administrators about possible financial assistance that may be extended to the cooperative. The same report said Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto-Adiong, Jr. had also asked PSALM to defer its June 8 order to disconnect power supply in Lasureco. Previous local news reports said Marawi Re-

ties Management Corp. (PSALM), according to the National Electrification Administration (NEA).

tensibly interceding for wife, Maguindanao Gov. Mariam SangkiMangudadatu, batted for improvement Magelco’s services as a prerequisite to the restructuring, adding that the financial program needs to be further developed. Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal A. Adiong Jr. and Lasureco Magelco has over GM Norjiana Ducol. P3.8 billion worth of ungional Trial Court Judge PSALM, Lasureco, NEA, settled payables at the Wenida Papandayan, on and Department of Ener- end of April. It has settled petition of Lasureco Gen- gy, among others, to only P45.5 million of the eral Manager Nurjiana come up with a resolution P147.2-million power bills Ducol, issued a 72-hour of issues discussed in the for the December 2021 to temporary restraining or- June 8 meeting, the NEA April 2022 period, the NEA said. der on the disconnection report said. It may be recalled In a separate statebid. “Governor Adiong ment, meanwhile, the that PSALM had analso committed to dis- NEA announced that the nounced to disconnect cussing with the mayors Maguindanao Electric Co- electric supply in Magelco of (his) province how they operative, Inc. (Magelco) on June 13. But as of can help Lasureco pay its had likewise committed to June 10, the NEA said obligation to PSALM, and restructure its arrears with the NGCP deferred the asked PSALM for three the National Grid Corp. of disconnection after receiving the proposal submonths to carry this out,” the Philippines (NGCP). The NEA confirmed mitted by Magelco. the NEA said. (NAM) outgoing Sultan Lanao del Sur offi- that cialdom would call for Kudarat Governor Suharanother meeting with to T. Mangudadatu, os-

BARMM approves upgrading of Unayan Hospital in Lanao Sur LANAO DEL SUR -- The Bangsamoro Parliament unanimously passed a bill that aims to upgrade the Unayan Municipal Hospital in the municipality of Binidayan, this province. By a 50-0 vote, the Parliament approved on third and final reading Bill No. 74 or the Unayan Municipal Hospital Upgrading Act of 2022, principally authored by Members of Parliament Saffrullah Dipatuan and Romeo Saliga. The existing Unayan Municipal Hospital will undergo expansion to become a district hospital with a capacity of fifty beds, an increase from its current ten authorized bed capacity. “I have visited the said hospital several times and I have witnessed its condition and the dire need to upgrade and standardize it,” said MP Dipatuan, noting that the BARMM government should strengthen the healthcare delivery system by upgrading hospitals in the region. Landscaping, medical and office equipment, other facilities, as well as operating funds and personnel will all be upgraded, including the construction and procurement. For the upgrading of the hospital, all pertinent and relevant provisions from the Universal Health

Care Act will be integrated into the hospital’s system and operations. It will be under the administrative supervision of the Ministry of Health, which is authorized to determine and approve the appropriate organizational structure for the management and operations of the facility. The bill states that funds for the upgrading of the said hospital will be appropriated from the Bangsamoro General Appropriations Act, including the construction, acquisition of medical and office equipment, and the annual budget needed for personnel services, maintenance, operations, and other expenses. All those laws and regulations passed by the BARMM government, including those passed by the defunct ARMM government, regarding the operations of the Unayan Municipal Hospital that are not consistent with the act are repealed under the measure. (BTA/PIA Lanao del Sur)

PILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY

ment of the municipality On the other hand, Deputy Minister Atty. Sukarno Abas said that the Negosyo Center has an active role in fostering a strong regional and local government collaboration in aiding the MSMEs.

“We really see the strong collaboration of MTIT and the LGU. Isa kayo sa partner ng regional government sa pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa ating kapwa mamamayan”, Atty. Abas stated.

On her part, Director General Rosslaini AlontoSinarimbo of the ministry said they will push for the endorsement of promising projects in the municipality. “We will push for the endorsement of some promising projects in this Municipality. I congratulate you, alam ko hndi lang ito ang kaya nyong gawin, ang laki ng potential ng area ng Sibutu,” she added. The activity held on June 16, 2022, ended with a ribbon cutting and signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between MTIT and the local government of Sibutu. (With MTIT)

MASIDING NOOR YAHYA

Opinion

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

Remembering wishes for 2022 Philippine Muslim Today Inc. SEC Co. Reg. No. 2021030008913-02 TIN: 602-795-878-00000 PHILGEPS Red Registration ID No. 287438

ADMINISTRATION MASIDING NOOR YAHYA President, Publisher & CEO

ALI G. MACABALANG Vice President & Acting Editor-In-Chief

MACOD D. RASCAL Corporate Secretary

ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL Treasurer & Business Manager

BAYAN GOLING BALT Legal Consultant

AMANODING D. ESMAIL Consultant on Finance & Administration

PROF. CASAN CONDING CANA Consultant

Philippine Muslim Today newspaper is published weekly by Philippine Muslim Today Inc., a non-profit, non-political Muslim organization aimed to promote universal unity, peace and understanding among diverse peoples. All press releases, articles or communications for publication shall be addressed to:

The Editor, PMTI chiefeditor@philmuslim.today DISCLAIMER: Opinion expressed herein by the writer is not necessarily the opinion of the Philippine Muslim Today Inc., its management or any of its publications.

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FRONT PAGE OF LAST WEEK ISSUE

y first wish was for refinement in political maneuvers in our communities; the second was for settlement of billions of arrears of Lasureco and Magelco with PSALM; the third was for an end in land squatting inside MSUMarawi City campus (my Al Mater), and for faithful implementation of the P2.5-billion interconnectivity in the campus; the fourth was for MSU to end whimsical acts in recruitment and promotion of personnel ; and the fifth was national officials to give Mindanao an equitable share from the annual budgetary pie. All such wishes are still yearning for fulfillment. Dirty politicking, I guess, even got worse. Problems about ballooning debts of Lasureco and Magelco started drawing attention only after PSALM threatened to disconnect power supply in both coops this month. There is no update report yet on the P2.5billion interconnectivity and distant learning projects inside MSU campus. New MSU President Basari Mapupuno, my frat brother, will hopefully look into the project status and announce his findings. I hope to visit my Alma Mater soon and elicit pronouncements from Brother Basari on his policy for recruitment and promotion system, and on his approach to stop the trend of mushrooming of unauthorized houses inside

campus. I would also want to personally convey to him my decades-old advocacy for the MSU system, at least the main campus, to replicate the programs of other state universities like the U.P. in annual awarding of exemplary alumni to inspire graduates of the MSU system in faring with other professionals from other schools across the country. Equally, I am eager to convey to Atty. Mapupuno is the essence of making the MSU system a producer of active journalists, especially among the Bangsamoro community of students. The MSU system Ali G. Macabalang has already produced hundreds if not thousands of other professionals like lawyers, physicians, engineers, teachers and so on. But it has a nil record of producing journalists despite having established an institute in the univrsity for mass communication. I hope to see my wishes fulfilled in the twilight of my career.

Punchline

Allahumma ameen.

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE … from Page A1 form one of the important pillars of Islam— Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca—were not allowed to take their supposed flights on June 19, 20, and 21, 2022, because they had no visa to enter KSA for the intended Hajj thereby forfeiting their airline confirmed booking. This had never happened before. What made it more painful is that while the stranded pilgrims were waiting for their flight for hours at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), nobody ever told them that they could not take their supposed flights. There was no one from the NCMF and BPE around to assist them. They only realized when the airplanes supposed to take them onboard had left them. Now, the June 19 stranded pilgrimshave not yet flew to KSA contradicting whatever measure the nCMF has said to undertake. Those who have left are from Lanao del Norte who were able to go, according to reliable source, because of the intervention of the Dimaporo’s of Lanao del Norte. Simply put, it is a sheer incompetence. One netizen said he was surprised this happened only now and believed the reason is the change of leadership in the NCMF. Another one whose mother was among those stranded said: Grabe so corruption alam na this, pinipilit nila na ung mga galing (Lanao) norte kasama iyong omi ko na ibigay ang flyt ng taga norte sa mga lanao sur na hindi na dapat un ... kagagawan nya talaga, inopn pakala e arga ka ponan non .pagoman pagoman sa bayad. The NCMF official statement issued on June 23, 2022, signed by Commissioner Yusoph Mando as new spokesman, saying they had undertaken measures in order to resolve the crisis, was not enough to appease the distress of the stranded pilgrims. Observers consider such statement as too good to be true. The NCMF did not give assurance this mess would not be repeated nor would it guarantee to finally solve the problem until the hajj season this year is over.

In addition, never had the NCMF and BPE accepted that this was their fault. We know most important reason for this crisis is the delay of paying the visa and other payables maybe in the specified portal. And worst, they did not explain why nobody from the NCMF and BPE was assisting the intending pilgrims at the airport who did not know they were to be stranded. We understand full payment of the pilgrims were already paid in the month of May but paid only on June 17, 2022. An NCMF press release issued on June 20, 2022, said the commission has fully paid on June 17, 2022, the amount of USD 5,773,920.00 due to ELM for the pilgrimage fee of 3,500 Filipino pilgrims through the PNB. A source from the NCMF belied the June 17, 2022, and told an observer that the amount was remitted on June 20, 2022. A source from the Kingdom said of another reason why the NCMF kept on holding the money instead of paying it immediately to the Saudi government. It was for Whether it was on June 17, 2022, or June 20, 2022, it does not matter anymore. NCMF Lies FAKE NEWS! Ang JUNE 19 stranded pilgrims UP TO THIS MOMENT WALA pang "rescheduled flight". May 2 special flights daw for them, NASAAN? May standby aircraft "ready for departure", NASAAN? Bakit hanggang ngayon wala pang flight ang JUNE 19 stranded pilgrims na ilang araw nang FULLY ISSUED ang VISA? What has been done cannot be undone. The agony of the affected Filipino pilgrims will remain an emotional scar in them. While the crisis should serve as a lesson, mistake should be accepted, not argued, nor made as excuse. The best thing in order to avoid this kind of crisis is for the government to appoint a man of God, expert in Islamic ethics and education like an Aleem, and with experienced and connection with Middle East and Arabian affairs. (PMT)

News

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

Duterte’s sincerity, passion to serve endeared him to Filipinos

July voters’ registration to include transfer, reactivation

BY LADE JEAN KABAGANI

ANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte’s sincerity and passion to serve endeared him to the nation, according to incoming Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles. “Parating nasa isip niya ang kapakanan ng taumbayan (He always had the welfare of the general public in mind),” Angeles said during the thanksgiving event “Salamat (Thank you), PRRD” at Quirino Grandstand in Manila. “Ramdam na ramdam namin na kaming publiko ang laging nauuna, na kami ‘yung naging worthy ng serbisyo. Naramdaman namin na finally, may gobyerno (We really felt that we, the public, has always been top priority, that we are worthy of service. We felt there is indeed a government),” she added. Duterte earned consistent high approval ratings throughout his sixyear term, the latest of which was OCTA Research’s survey conducted March 5 to 10. He had the highest performance and trust scores among government officials, recording 67 percent and 69 percent, respectively. Angeles said Duterte prioritized the marginalized members of the society.

Angeles said in an interview Sunday that Duterte is indeed a “beloved President” because of his eagerness to provide quality service that the Filipino people deserve.

SOUVENIRS. Memorabilia items to honor President Rodrigo Duterte are sold near the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday (June 26, 2022). A thanksgiving event, “Salamat (Thank you), PRRD”, was held for the outgoing President. (PNA photo by Robert Alfiler) “May puso siya para sa mga mahihirap. May puso para sa taong bayan. Para sa kanya, it didn’t make a difference kung mahirap ka o mayaman kasi ang serbisyo niya para sa mga Pilipino (He has the heart for the poor. He has the heart for the public. For him, it didn’t make a difference whether you are poor or rich because his services are for all Filipinos),” she said. The country’s 16th Chief Executive who will

step down on June 30 also fulfilled his promises of doing “whatever it takes for the benefit of Filipinos”. “It’s the first time na maririnig mo talaga na hindi tayo sinasabihan na, ay walang pera ang gobyerno para dyan. Ang naririnig natin sa kanya, hahanap tayo ng pera, Gagawa tayo ng paraan. Alam naman natin how government works. ‘Yung mga pangako niya, ginagawa niya talaga (It’s the first time that you didn’t

hear the government said we have no budget for that. He always said he will find money for that. We will do something. We know how the government works. He really fulfilled his promises),” she added. Angeles likewise lauded the government’s “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program, free education, and financial assistance for the marginalized sectors. (PNA)

PH to host Int’l Conference of Info Commissioners in 2023 PUEBLA CITY, Mexico – The Philippines will host International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) in 2023. The ICIC Secretariat made the announcement during the closing ceremony of the Conference in a closed-door session presided by the Commissioners of Mexico’s National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information, and Data Protection (INAI) on Saturday. “The Evaluation Committee reviewed the submitted applications, considered aspects ranging from the experience and capacity of the applicant authority in organizing international events, as well as the proposed venue, accommodation, and financing options,” INAI Commissioner Adrián Alcalá announced. The ICIC called for applications to host the 2023 Conference last February 2021 which required interested parties to prepare a comprehensive documentation and high-level project plan outlining their proposed agenda for ICIC 2023 and 2024. The Philippine delegation, led by Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary and FOI Program Director Kristian Ablan, accepted the conferment. “On behalf of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Philippines and the Republic of the Philippines, we wholeheartedly accept and take on the role of hosting

the ICIC 2023,” Ablan said. Ablan also thanked outgoing President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for passing Executive Order (EO) No. 2, s. 2016, and PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar for championing Filipinos’ right to access public information through the FOI Program. “We still have a long way to go but with this outgoing administration, we have laid the foundation for a transparency mechanism,” Ablan said. It can be recalled that the EO on FOI was one of Duterte’s campaign promises after 35 years of calling for the immediate passage of the FOI law. The FOI Project Management Office of the PCOO spearheads the implementation of the FOI Program since 2016, and has made considerable efforts in pushing forward an increased access to information in the country. “I couldn’t be more excited to welcome everyone to the Philippines next year. We will do our best to give you a memorable, meaningful, and substantial ICIC Annual Meeting in 2023. We hope to see you all in ICIC PILIPINAS 2023!,” he said. The Philippines is the first Southeast Asian country to host the Conference, following Mexico (2005 and 2022), South Africa (2004 and 2019), United Kingdom (2017 and 2006), Chile (2015), Germany (2013 and 2003), Canada (2011), Norway (2009), and New Zealand (2007). (PR)

ANILA – The resumption of the voter's registration from July 4 to 23 for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) will include other transactions like transfer, change/corrections of entries, and reactivation. Based on Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 10798, the transactions to be entertained are updating of records, transfer, change/ corrections of entries, reactivation or reinstatement, and inclusion of registration records. Persons with disabilities, senior citizens, members of Indigenous Peoples' or Indigenous Cultural Communities, and other members of vulnerable sectors must also be accommodated. Applications must be personally filed at the Office of the Election Officer in the city or municipality where the applicant resides from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays. A voter should be at least 18 years old on or before the December 5 barangay elections, resident of the Philippines for at least one year in the voting place or at least six months immediately preceding the polls, and not otherwise disqualified by law. “Any person who has not reached the required voting age or period of residence on the day of registration but will possess such qualifications on or before the December 5, 2022 barangay elections may register as a voter,” read the resolution dated June 22. SK voters must be at least 15 years old but not more than 30, residing in the village for at least six months on or before December 5, and not otherwise disqualified by law. Registered voters as of the May 9 elections shall be included in the Sangguniang Kabataan System database provided that they are not beyond 30 years old on or before December 5, the Comelec sai Applicants should bring identification documents with photograph and signature, which may be the national ID under the Philippine Identification System; employee's ID with the signature of the employer or authorized representative; postal ID; PWD ID; student's ID or library card signed by the school authority; senior citizen's ID; and driver's license. Also accepted are the National Bureau of Investigation clearance; passport; ID cards issued by the Social Security System, Government Service Insurance System, or Integrated Bar of the Philippines; Professional Regulatory Commission license; Certificate of Confirmation issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples; barangay identification/ certification with photo; and any other valid ID cards. “In the absence of any of the above-mentioned identification documents, the applicant may be identified under oath by any registered voter of the precinct where he/she intends to be registered, or by any of his/her relatives within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity,” the Comelec said. “No registered voter or relative shall be allowed to identify more than three applicants.” Acting poll body spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said in an interview on Thursday that under Republic Act 8189 (Continuing Voter’s Registration Act), registration is prohibited within 120 days prior to elections. “Roughly starting August 7, it’s already prohibited,” he said.

FERDINAND PATINIO

News

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

Sri Lanka faces complete economic collapse: Premier

STANBUL -- The Sri Lankan prime minister on Wednesday warned that the economy of the island nation is facing a “complete collapse.” Addressing the country’s parliament, Ranil Wickremesinghe said: “Our economy has faced a complete collapse,” adding that shoring up foreign reserves is the route to financial recovery. “That is the most serious issue before us today. These issues can only be resolved by reviving the Sri Lankan economy. In order to do this, we must first resolve the foreign reserves crisis,” said the premier, according to a transcription of his speech delivered in the native Sinhalese language. In April, the country announced that it had defaulted on all of its foreign debt as the island nation grappled with massive anti-government protests amid its worst economic crisis. In mid-May, the

country stated that crisishit Sri Lanka had run out of petrol. A tourist-rich nation, Sri Lanka saw foreign reserves dry up since the Covid-19 pandemic closed all travel and remittances going into the country. The financial crisis resulted in the resignation of Wickremesinghe’s predecessor Mahinda Rajapaksa after violent protests. Wickremesinghe had earlier this month said the

country needs USD5 billion for essential needs such as food, fuel, fertilizer, and gas over the next six months. “Every two weeks since taking the reins of this government, I have taken steps to inform you of the real situation faced by the country and the measures we are taking to address it,” Wickremesinghe told the parliament. Urging united efforts to lead Sri Lanka, home

to around 22 million people, Wickremesinghe said: “It is no easy task to revive a country with a completely collapsed economy, especially one that is dangerously low on foreign reserves.” “We are seeing signs of a possible fall into the very bottom,” the prime minister said, adding the “only safe option is to hold discussions with the International Monetary Fund.”

(Anadolu)

Russian journalist's Nobel medal sold to help Ukrainian children ANKARA – Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov has auctioned off his Nobel Peace Prize medal for a record USD103.5 million to help children displaced by the war in Ukraine. All proceeds will benefit UNICEF’s humanitarian response for Ukrainian children displaced by war, read a statement by Heritage Auctions, which conducted the sale in New York on Monday night. The previous high for a Nobel medal was USD4.74 million, paid for US scientist James Watson’s medal at an auction in 2014. Muratov, editor-in-chief of the independent Russian

newspaper Novaya Gazeta, was co-awarded the 2021 peace prize for defending freedom of expression in Russia. He was among the people who started the daily in 1993, with the paper becoming known for its critical stance on Russia’s political and social affairs. It was forced to suspend operations in March, just after Moscow launched its war on Ukraine. “The most important message today is for people to understand that there’s a war going on and we need to help people who are suffering the most,” Muratov said in a video message released by Heritage Auctions (ANADOLU)

London to Host Islamic Unity Forum TEHRAN (IQNA) – The 15th edition of a forum on Islamic unity will begin in London on Friday. Titled “Toward Wise Human Life”, the two-day event will be attended by Muslims scholars, thinkers and researchers from, different countries. Secretary General of the World Forum for Proximity of Islamic Schools of Thought (WFPIST) Hojat-olIslam Hamid Shahriari, member of Iran’s Assembly of Experts Ayatollah Mohsen Araki, Chairman of the Assembly of Lebanese Muslim Scholars Sheikh Ghazi Hanina, President of Union of Resistance Scholars Sheikh Maher Hammoud and Head of Russia’s Council of Muftis Nafiqollah Ashirov will be among participants at the forum. Concept of religion and religious practice and their

role, importance of Islam for humanity’s life, onslaughts on Islam, humanity in Islam and its rules, and Palestine, Al-Quds and crime of nor-

malization of ties (with the Israeli regime) will among the topics of discussion at the forum. Slated for Friday and Sat-

urday, June 24-25, from 3:30 to 9 PM local time, it will be broadcast live here and here, according to the website of the WFPIST. (IQNA)

Indonesia urges Asean to mitigate hurdles of exports to US

AKARTA – The Indonesian government has called on Asean countries to handle potential hurdles of export to the United States following the implementation of US Marine Mammal Protection Act (US MMPA). Secretary General of the Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry Antam Novambar noted in a press statement on Sunday that one of the efforts being pushed was to focus on improving small-scale fishery in Asean. "This is important because it is related to the performance of Asean member countries' fishery product exports to the global market, specifically America," he said. The issue of small-scale fishermen and cultivators, whose number is dominating in the fishery sector, potentially affects the performance of export because it is related to the product standardization.

Marine Affairs and Fishery Ministry's Secretary General Antam Novambar. (ANTARA/HO-KKP/FR)

To this end, during the Asean Sectoral Working Group on Fisheries (ASWGFi) meeting, the Indonesian delegation urged the United States to boost both capacity and technical supports so that Asean countries can meet those standards. This became a collective consideration because it can potentially become a new nontariff hurdle and will affect fish and fishery products export of Asean member countries to the US market, Novambar opined. To bolster the competency of small-scale fishermen and cultivators, Indonesia has initiated two concepts in the capture fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The concept in capture fisheries sector involves food security and poverty reduction through the implementation of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) guidelines. Meanwhile, the concept in aquaculture came in the form of collective understanding on sustainable cultivation by encouraging sustainable fish cultivation approach. The two initiative proposals had been ratified and their documents will be formulated by Asean countries and partners such as FAO and Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), Novambar said. "To this end, during the 30th ASWGFi meeting held recently, the ministry encouraged Asean countries to collectively participate in formulating this regional strategy to pay attention to small-scale fishery that dominates Asean's fishery," he continued. ASWGFi meeting is the only official forum in Asean that handles issues in fishery such as capture capacity, capture region, IUU Fishing eradication, conservation and habitat, and climate change impacts. (Antara)

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EU, Australia and the UN support peaceful transition of 6 MILF camps EU Ambassador Luc Véron, together with Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson, and UN Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez launched today (15 June) two projects for former combatants and their families and communities designed in partnership with the Office of Presidential Adviser of Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority. The two initiatives will support Camp Bilal (Lanao provinces), Camp Bushra (Lanao del Sur), Camp Abubakar (Maguindanao), Camp Rajamuda (North Cotabato/Maguindanao), Camp Badre (Maguindanao), and Camp Omar (Maguindanao).

The Access to Legal Identity and Social Services for Decommissioned Combatants (ALIAS-DC) project will support decommissioned combatants as they re-engage into civilian life by providing them with legal identities. The other action, Programme on Assistance for Camp Transformation through Inclusion, Violence Prevention and Economic Empowerment (PROACTIVE) will promote economic income and sustainable livelihoods, community resilience and security. After decades of conflict, obtaining a legal identity through birth certificates is a first step for former combatants in their re-engagement into civilian life. Access to the peace dividends also involves re-creating viable livelihoods in previously armed camps. To achieve these goals of normalization requires strong partnerships between all stakeholders. “The EU is here to support the work of the Bangsamoro Transitional Government and the OPAPRU to further consolidate the peace process. The European Union has been a staunch and long standing supporter of the peace efforts in Mindanao: with the projects we are launching today, and since 2020, we have invested over 105 million euro (almost Php 9 billion) in projects covering both development and capacity building for the transition. We are happy to be partnering with Australia and the UN on normalisation, since enhancing the normalisation track-allowing for all the people engaged in the conflict to lead peaceful and productive lives without leaving anyone behind–is crucial to build lasting peace”, said EU Ambassador Luc Véron. Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven J. Robinson AO said, “Australia is a long-time supporter of the Peace Process in Mindanao, and in particular Normalisation. I’m glad that we are helping provide such foundational assistance to former combatants. Identity documents are something that many of us take for granted, but if you lack these you can find yourself locked out of education, health, work, and wider opportunities to participate in society. I hope these documents will help kick-start the process to transform these camps into peaceful communities. Over my three and a half years in the Philippines I’ve been fortunate to work closely with the Government of the Philippines on the Peace Process, and in particular Presidential Advisor on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito Galvez Jr. I believe that the support of the global community is essential to the Peace Process here – no country can do this all on its own. I’m also proud that we are working on this together with the European Union and the United Nations, and I look forward to seeing more work that our collaboration will support in the future.” “Peace and development must walk hand-in-hand. Today we celebrate another milestone in this complex but rewarding journey. As the United Nation, we are proud of being part of this collective investment jointly with the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, OPAPRU and our longstanding development partners, Australia and the European Union”, said Gustavo Gonzalez, UN Resident Coordinator. Access to Legal Identity and Social Services for Decommissioned Combatants (ALIAS-DC) The ALIAS DC project will provide 31,000 MILF former combatants, their families, the Bangsamoro Islamic Women’s Brigade (BIWAB), and members of communities surrounding MILF camps from marginalised sectors such as internally displaced persons and indigenous people, with birth registration. Legal identity means that they can hold their own certificates of live births, it also means that former MILF combatants and their families are able to cross checkpoints freely and are able to access basic services and social protection. The NGO IDEALS will be carrying this initiative forward to 2023 with Php 62.41 million funding from the EU and Php18.1 million funding from Australia. Programme on Assistance for Camp Transformation through Inclusion, Violence Prevention and Economic Empowerment (PROACTIVE) PROACTIVE will work with commanders to create viable livelihoods in previously armed camps by supporting the formation of social enterprises, offering individual agricultural and non-agricultural livelihood trainings and assistance packages, and improving access to basic services and social infrastructure. The project will also work on transforming conflict and creating a culture of peace by enhancing the capacities and participation of local stakeholders—including women, youth, and faith-based leaders in community development and peacebuilding. Implemented by the UNDP, the project is cofunded by the EU for Php 221 million. (PR-AGENCY)

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: This EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE is entered into this 9th day of June 2022 at Iligan city, Northern Mindanao, Philippines, by and between the following parties: MYRNA ENCABO LAHOYLAHOY, who is a Filipino, of legal age, married and residing at Pioneer Village, Barangay Hinaplanon, Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines; JUDITH ENCABO MANABILANG, who is a Filipino, of legal age, widowed, and residing at 2nd East Extension, Rosario Heights, Barangay Tubod, Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines; ROMEO A. ENCABO, who is a Filipino, of legal age, married, and residing at Isabel Village, Barangay Palao, Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines; ROSALIO A. ENCABO, who is a Filipino, of legal age, married, and residing at 7th East Extension, Rosario Heights, Barangay Tubod, Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines; REYNALDO A. ENCABO, who is a Filipino, of legal age, married, and residing at 8th East Extension, Rosario Heights, Barangay Tubod, Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines; and EMILIE ENCABO STEVENSON, who is a Filipino, of legal age, married, and residing at 8th East Extension, Rosario Heights, Barangay Tubod, Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines; Herein referred to as the HEIRS OF RODOLFO ALAGAR ENCABO

WITNESSETH, That: WHEREAS, the above-named heirs are the only surviving and lawful heirs of RODOLFO ALAGAR ENCABO, who died intestate last June 19, 2021 at Dasmarinas, Cavite; WHEREAS, at the time of RODOLFO ALAGAR ENCABO’S death, he owned money deposited at BDO Iligan under Account No. 5210 6903 1688 6707; WHEREAS, there are no known debts or obligations due against the estate of the said decedent; WHEREAS, it is to the very best interest of the parties hereto to adjudicate unto themselves the estate extra-judicially, in the form and manner hereinafter set forth; NOW THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing premises and invoking the provisions of Sec. 1 Rule 74 of the Rules of Court, the said heirs above-named have agreed to settle the estate extra-judicially and to this effect do hereby partition and adjudicate the same unto themselves and the foregoing inheritance, subject however to the liabilities imposed by Sec. 4, Rule 74 of the Rules of Court for a period of two years in favor of any other possible heirs, creditors or any other person deprived of the lawful participation over the said estate of the deceased and encumbrances; In the remote event that any other property of the decedent should ever be found which is not included hereinabove, the heirs hereto further agree as they do so agree to settle and distribute the same in like manner and proportion as herein established and disposed; The heirs hereby covenant and further warrant that should there be preterition or omission of one, some, or all of the compulsory heirs in the direct line, whether living or not at the same time of the execution of this Deed, the same will not invalidate or nullify the terms and conditions of this Deed. Instead, the above-named heirs shall proportionately oblige themselves to pay to the omitted heirs or the latters’ heir(s) the share which belongs to him/them, in accordance with the rules of succession under the Civil Code of the Philippines. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have hereunto affixed their signatures this 9th day of June 2022 at Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines. MYRNA ENCABO LAHOYLAHOY Heir ROMEO A. ENCABO Heir ROSALIO A. ENCABO Heir REYNALDO A. ENCABO Heir EMILIE ENCABO STEVENSON Heir JUDITH ENCABO MANABILANG Heir Signed in the presence of the following instrumental witnesses:

BLANCHE COLEEN URBIZTONDO

SHIERA T. SOLATORIO

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Republic of the Philippines} City of Iligan} ----------------------------------xxx BEFORE ME, a Notary Public for Iligan City and Lanao Del Norte, the above-named parties personally appeared this JUN 9, 2022 at Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines, and who presents to me their respective proofs of their identities herein attached and made integral parts hereof. Myrna Encabo Lahoylahoy Judith Encabo Manabilang Romeo A. Encabo Rosalio A. Encabo, Jr. Reynaldo A. Encabo Emilie Encabo Stevenson

Passport No. P7614218A Driver’s License No. MOI-79-011441 Driver’s License No. MO2-81-000250 Unified ID No. 008-0504373-8 Driver’s License No. M02-89-013570 Driver’s License No. 1406 723 598

They are known to me and to me made known to be the same persons who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged to me that the same is their own free voluntary act and deed. This instrument refers to an Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate consisting of three (3) pages including this page on which the acknowledgment is written, and duly signed by the partied and their instrumental witnesses. WITNESS MY HAND AND NOTARIAL SEAL on the date and place aforesaid. MICHAEL CAESAR A. ADVINCULA NOTARY PUBLIC FOR ILIGAN CITY AND LANAO DEL NORTE ROLL OF ATTORNEY NO. 70765/JUNE 4, 2018 IBP OR NO. 168707 / DECEMBER 28, 2021 / PASIG CITY PTR NO. 480300 / JANUARY 4, 2022 / ILIGAN CITY G/F COOPS FOR CHRIST BLDG. LLUCH ST, ILIGAN CITY MCLE NO. VI – 027337 / JUNE 19, 2019 COMMISION SERIAL NO. 21 – 328 COMMISSION ENDING ON DECEMBER 31, 2022 Doc No.: 259 Page No.: 52 Book No.: I Series of 2022.

PMT: June 27-July 3, 2022; July 4,-10, 2022; July 11-17, 2022.

Environment

Mount Baya in Ganassi, Lanao del Sur initially assessed by BERDS

Vol. III, No. 02 | June 27-July 3, 2022 (Zulqaida 27-Zulhijjah 3, 1443)

TOURISM: Explore the beauty of Tawi-Tawi!

ANASSI, Lanao del Sur — An initial assessment of Mount Baya in Ganassi, Lanao del Sur was conducted by the Environment Ministry’s Biodiversity, Ecosystems, Research, and Development Services (BERDS) and the Community ENRE Office of Lanao del Sur 2nd District to identify potential components that would be helpful in related endeavors, such as the execution of the Protected Area Suitability Assessment (PASA).

by ROHANIE TAN YAHYA

Mount Baya is a dormant volcano in Ganassi in the said province. The mountain has a peak elevation of 1,484 meters rising from a plateau of about 950 meters. It is located around 4 kilometers east of Lake Dapao and 4.5 kilometers southwest of Lake Lanao. As the team of BERDS climbed the mountain, they observed the presence of Dipterocarp spp, wild mushroom, ratan spp, and bamboo. According to the locals, the species of Philippine deer and wild pig also exist in the habitat.

“Activities such as this are significant in the BARMM, especially that we are beginning to develop an inventory and assessment of wildlife and habitat in the Bangsamoro region for research purposes and to craft our appropriate actions to ensure their protection and conservation,” BERDS Director Mohamad Ali R. Dimaren said. Following the assessment of Mount Baya, the team, together with CENREO 2B led by CENRE Officer Benjamin D. Alangca, also went around the periphery of Lake Dapao. The team observed that the Lake Dapao is still surrounded by vegetations. In the northern part facing the lake, there are also areas occupied by locals. Among the beneficial uses of the lake and its natural resources, locals rely on the water body as their source of livelihood and food, particularly through fishing. It is important to emphasize, above all, that Lake Dapao is necessary to be protected and sustainably managed as well. (MENRE)

he Bangsamoro Government invites everyone to see the hidden gems of Tawi-Tawi and experience destinations like no other! With the recent launching of the Philippine Airlines (PAL) twice-weekly flight from Cotabato to Tawi-Tawi and return, it’s easy for

KAMPILAN FALLS: The hidden gem of Lanao del Sur town Kampilan Falls is one that has not been seen yet by as many people but this tourist’s attraction located in Butig town in Lanao del Sur province is not only attractive forlocal but also for foreign tourists that a visit to the spot will be memorable in a lifetime. The photo, right, is probably captured by the lens of CAMAL, AZISA SERAD who submitted it as entry in a tourism contest in the Bangsamoro regional government. Photo Location: Butig, Lanao del Sur Photo Narrative: “We live in wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures that we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open." (CTTO)

travelers and tourists to see the visit the island province. On Mondays and Thursdays, the PAL flight departs from Cotabato to Tawi-Tawi at 7:30 AM and from Tawi-Tawi to Cotabato at 9:40 AM. (PMT)