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Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

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Solons call for unity to spur dev't in Lanao Sur

BY APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN | Marawi City

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epresentatives of the two congressional districts of Lanao del Sur has called on newly-elected local officials to work together as the province heads towards development.

In his opening remarks during the mass oathtaking of local offices on Monday, July 4, 1st District Representative Ziaur-Rahman Adiong (photo right above) appealed for unity among his constituents including their opponents during the recently held national and local elections.

He said they all need to rally behind the

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.

call of the new administration for unity and national healing.

"InshaAllah [God willing] Lanao del Sur will continue to soar high and will continue to achieve her maximum potential.

We can do this if we do this together," he said.

2nd District Representative Yasser Balindong (photo left below)

The resumption of the voter's registration from July 4 to 23 for the Barangay and Sangguniang

Remembering Ustaz Salamat Hashim

By ALI G. MACABALANG

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ARRATIVES about the moral governance-focused stewardship of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) can be meaningfully heralded, with the remembrance of the Man, who founded the Mo-

also affirmed the importance of unity among elected officials and their constituents in strengthening good governance, consultative decisionmaking, and peopleoriented policy implementation.

Meanwhile, Adiong told the newly-elected officials that they are now obligated to hold the responsibilities of their respective positions by efficiently delivering quality service to their people.

"We are no longer politicians as the election is over, we are now public servants," he emphasized.

Balindong, on the other hand, said the oath that they have taken symbolizes their commitment to serve the people as well as a reminder that they must lead their towns, city, and the province with due transparency and accountability.

(APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

The resumpThe Bangsamoro Government inro Islamic Liberation Front generation, in the adtion of the vites everyone to see the hidden gems (MILF) now stewarding the vent of July – the voter's regisof Tawi-Tawi, one of the nisland provparliament and bureaucra- month during which tration from inces of the autonomous region and cy of the region – Ustaz MILF founding ChairJuly 4 to 23 experience destinations like no other!

Salamat Hashim. man Hashim was born I write this article, one and had returned to his of vital informative news I Almighty Creator, have lined up in my twilight whose mercy I bein media practice for dis- seech for him and all of semination to the us.

SALAMAT | A4 knowledge-seeking new

For latest update, visit: www.philmuslim.today. For press release, email to: muslimtoday2020@gmail.com

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BARMM in Focus

Searches on for B’moro basketball prodigies

BEDC advances macro-economic strategies under 2nd Bangsamoro Dev’t Plan DAVAO CITY—The Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council (BEDC) discussed the proposed macro-economic targets and sectoral contributions for the formulation of 2nd Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) for 2023-2028 on June 27-29, 2022 at Apo View Hotel in this city.

The BDP entails the development plans of the BARMM and its provinces in the next five years. Five sectoral committees of BEDC led the 3-day workshop along with its partners, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and The Asia Foundation (TAF).

Resource Person and Consultant of JICA and TAF Ever Abasolo emphasized that in the BDP, it is “not only important that you can update the plan but also for you to own the plan. Because with ownership, it comes with accountability.”

“Macroeconomic targets are important in the BDP process on the operational aspect, which means that the sectoral goal and objectives, directly or indirectly, contribute to the achievement of such targets,” Abasalo said.

In his message read by BPDA Director for Planning and Policies Bureau Melanie Indar, BPDA Director-General Engr. Mohajirin Ali is anticipating that “sectors will have agreed on their sectoral framework which will then serve as the basis for the identification of the doable programs, projects, and activities.”

“We hope to implement [these plans] to achieve the overall development goal of the BARMM. What we are doing now will contribute significantly to a larger purpose as we shape the future of the Bangsamoro,” Ali said.

Indar also mentioned that the workshop focused mainly on BEDC sectoral committees’ target setting and strategy formulation.

“With our high expectations that by November 2022 [to have formulated the 2nd BDP and its accompanying documents], our next activity this coming July will be sectoral committee meetings cum refinement of outputs and formulation write-shop,” Indar recapped.

Moreover, Performance Indicator on macroeconomic targets in the proposed 2nd BDP macroeconomic target includes: 1. Gross Regional Development Product (GRDP), Annual Growth Rate with an average of 7% – 9% increase with a current status of 7.5%; 2. GRDP Per Capita targeting an average of 15% – 20% increase; 3. Annual Average Real Growth Rate of the Services and Industry Sectors of 10%-12% increase with a current status of 5.3% for Services and 10.9% for Industry; 4. Percent Share of Gross Capital Formation to GRDE of 15%-18% increase with a current status of 9.94%; 5. Unemployment Rate of 3%-5% decrease with a current status of 3.9%; 6. Underemployment Rate of 5%-7% decline with a current status of 9.0%; 7. Inflation Rate of 2%-4% decrease with a current status of 2.4%; 8. Poverty Incidence (among families) of 33% – 35% index with a current status of 39.4%; and 9. Poverty gap and poverty severity downward trend in the next 6 years.

BPDA Chief Economic Development Specialist Camella Vera-Dacanay, different BARMM ministries, offices, agencies, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) representatives were among the attendees during the workshop.

Kasan M. Usop, Jr./BIO

Read Philippine Muslim Today newspaper. Your source of reliable information on the Bangsamoro.

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

By Kasan M. Usop, Jr./BIO

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OTABATO CITY — In order to unleash young potential Bangsamoro in the field of sports, the Bangsamoro Sports Commission (BSC) started to identify potential athletes in the region with the goal of targeting their skills and talents in basketball game.

A total of 100 basketball players, whose age ranges from 18 years old and younger, participated in a 4day clinic on July 4-7, 2022 at the Project Management Office, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) gymnasium here in this city.

The talent identification program aims to identify talents from the grassroots and to offer a program that will develop and enhance the skills of potential basketball prodigies in the Bangsamoro region.

The program also includes a mini basketball tryout and a database that contains information on athletes’ anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, sitting height, and wingspan.

Accordingly, during the conduct of the basketball clinic, the athletes also went through a performance skills test to determine their ability in the said game.

BSC Chairperson Nu-Man Caludtiag emphasized that the program would make it easier for the commission to track the performance of the athletes and moni-

tor their progress during the training.

“The talent identification program will give every Bangsamoro child an opportunity to be identified, to be selected, to be trained, and to develop them into champions, not just in sports but also in life,” said Chairperson Caludtiag.

Moreover, he said that Bangsamoro athletes at a young age need to instill in their minds the value of hard work, determination, discipline, respect, and above all, the spirit of sportsmanship. (Bangsamoro Information Office)

Decommissioned MILF combatants receive livelihood tool kits from MBHTE, OPAPRU COTABATO CITY— After a month of livelihood skills training with daily allowances, the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education - Technical Education and Skills Development (MBHTE-TESD) on Monday, July 4, conducted a simultaneous distribution of tool kits to 176 decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants in Maguindanao province.

Supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) under the Normalization Program or Executive Order No. 79, the activity targets to help the beneficiaries on their transition to peaceful and productive members of society.

MBHTE-TESD Focal Person Mohamad-Ali Diang said the Bangsamoro Government aspires a brighter future for MILF combatants, saying, "one of the goals of this program is to help decommissioned MILF combatants start other sources of income."

"We are hoping for prosperous livelihood that will be the key to secure a better future for our MILF combatants to normalize their lives,” he said.

Cookery equipment, such as chef's knives, food tongs, digital weighing scale, measuring cups, measuring spoons, saucepans, mixing bowls, and chopping boards, were distributed to 68 former MILF technical-vocational graduates from Illana Bay Integrated Computer College Inc. in Parang Municipality.

On the other hand, 81

graduates from Ittihadun Nisah FoundationBangsamoro Women Skills Training Center Pastry Making in Sultan Kudarat Municipality received measuring cups, mixing bowls, and ovens.

Prior to that, 27 beneficiaries from Sultan Kudarat Islamic Academy Foundation College were also given some carpentry equipment such as pull push rule, claw hammer, spirit level bar, steel square, crow bar, chalk line reel, wood chisel, portable handrill, and portable circular saw.

One of the receipients, Kaharodin Piaco, 48, from the Municipality of Barira shared that his family is planning to start a small cafeteria to earn extra income.

“Maliban sa pagsasaka, nais naming magkaroon ng ibang kabuhayan at kami ay naniniwala na malaking tulong itong programa sa aming pamilya at madevelop pa ang aming mga kakayahan,” Piaco said.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa Bangsamoro Government at pamahalaan ng Pilipinas dahil sa kasunduan sa pagitan ng Government of the Philippines-Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF) na kapayapaan, tagumpay at pagkakaisa ng mga Muslims at Kristyano,” he added.

The same activity will be conducted at Datu Ibrahim Paglas Memorial College with 80 beneficiaries and another 60 from Foureych Technical Vocational Education and Training Center.

Johaira Sahidala/BIO

MILG’s TuGon assists former combatants MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur — About 25 former combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) received financial assistance and food packs from Project TuGon (Tulong Ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit) of the Ministry of Interior and Local GovernmentBangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MILG-BARMM) on July 4 – 6 at 103rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, Camp Ranao, Marawi City.

MILG Minister Naguib Sinarimbo said this bring to a total of 52 former combatants that were profiled and assisted in the Province of Lanao del Sur. Project TuGoN is MILGadministered humanitarian assistance for former members of local armed groups in the region who have chosen to return to the folds of the law.

These former combatants will also be receiving a series of capacity development interventions, and entrepreneurship develop-

ment training to capacitate them on starting up businesses, financial literacy, business resiliency, and other important areas of entrepreneurship in prepa-

ration for their reintegration into the mainstream society as productive citizens.

MASIDING NOOR YAHYA

Mindanao Round Up

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

Mass oathtaking highlights 63rd Araw ng Lanao Sur

By APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN

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ARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The province of Lanao del Sur marked its 63rd founding anniversary with a mass oathtaking ceremony for local candidates who emerged victorious during the May 9 elections.

The oathtaking held Monday, July 4, at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Marawi City was led by Provincial Governor Mamintal "Bombit" Adiong Jr. and Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid "Mujam" Adiong.

Representatives of the two congressional districts of Lanao del Sur, Ziaur-Rahman Adiong and Yasser Balindong, as well as winning Board Members of the two districts, joined the governor and vice governor in the oath-taking.

Others who also took their oath were mayors, vice mayors, and councilors of the 39 municipalities of the province and the city of Marawi.

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri graced the celebration and administered the oath of office to the elected officials who swore to truly do their duties, functions, and responsibilities to the best of their abilities.

In his speech, Zubiri thanked the officials and the people of Lanao del Sur for their support during the elections, stressing that although he did not get the

most votes in Lanao del Sur because there were two Muslim senatorial candidates, he was the most favored non-Muslim senatorial bet across the province.

The senator also committed to help the province and provide whatever is needed in the area.

After the oathtaking, Governor Adiong delivered his inaugural message summarizing his agenda for his first 100 days in office, focusing on energy, economy, agriculture, employment, tourism, social welfare, environment, and infrastructure development. (APB/PIA10 Lanao del Sur)

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Zubiri to push for a committee on Marawi rehab and compensation MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)-Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri said he will push for the revival of the Senate's Special Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation which was tasked to continuously inquire into matters relating to the rehabilitation of the war-torn city.

"We will create once again the Special Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation at isasama na natin ang [and we will include the] compensation - Marawi Rehab and Compensation," Zubiri said during the 63rd Araw ng Lanao del Sur celebration held at the Provincial Capitol Gym on Monday, July 4.

Zubiri said he will ensure the special body will have weekly meetings and hearings so that members of the Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) can be appointed as soon as possible.

Republic Act 11696 or the Marawi Siege Compensation Act of 2022 mandates the creation of the MCB as an independent and quasijudicial body to handle the application for compensation from families of people who died and lost their properties during the fivemonth battle between government forces and Daesh-inspired terrorists in 2017 Zubiri said he would also make sure that funds will be provided for the implementation of the Marawi Compensation Act.

Only few avail of ‘Konsulta’ in Davao Region: PhilHealth DAVAO CITY – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation in Davao Region (PhilHealth-11) called on its members to avail of the agency’s Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) package for primary healthcare services.

In an interview Friday, PhilHealth-11 information officer Kleah Guevarra noted that as of June this year, only 4,501 members – including dependents – have availed of the various services from their Konsulta providers in the region.

As of June this year, PhilHealth-11 has 2,679,328 members all over Davao Region or 0.17 percent availment rate.

“We intensified the campaign to get more members to register through the available providers in the region,” Guevarra said.

The PhilHealth Konsulta is an expanded and comprehensive outpatient benefit package that provides primary and preventive care services for all Filipinos.

It is a newly-implemented primary care benefit that offers comprehensive outpatient health services such as free medical consultations, health screening and assessment, and access to selected diagnostic services, and medicines.

To date, there are 44 accredited facilities in the region for the Konsulta program.

Once registered in a Konsulta facility, Guevarra said members may avail of services including initial and follow-up primary care consultations, health screening, and assessment, and selected diagnostic services and medicines.

She added that access to the services is based on the health needs of the patients. PhilHealth pays the Konsulta assistance, to be released in two tranches.

The maximum per capita rate amount for Konsulta is PHP750 and PHP500 per private and public beneficiary, respectively.

Guevarra said healthcare facilities, whether public or private, are also encouraged to accredit themselves as Konsulta providers through selfassessment and submission of requirements for accreditation.

Che Palicte/PNA

DOLE lauds CDO village for anti-child labor ordinance CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 10 (Northern Mindanao) hailed the barangay government of Cugman in this city for establishing an anti-child labor ordinance.

Emmanuel Toledo, DOLE-10 Cagayan de Oro City Field Office chief, said Barangay Cugman Ordinance 1, passed on May 16 this year, affirms the commu-

nity's support for the agency's Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program.

“To prevent and eliminate child laborers in the city, Barangay Cugman's ordinance is the ideal example to be emulated by other villages,” Toledo said in a statement Friday.

Ma. Elsie Jandayan, the barangay council's Family, Women’s, and Education Committee chairperson, authored

the measure: “Ordinance Providing for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labor and Affording Stronger Protection for the Working Child against Child Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination in the Entire Barangay of Cugman.”

Barangay Cugman chairperson Wendelyn Escobia said it was urgent and necessary to localize the measure after observing that child laborers are prevalent in their

barangay.

Under the ordinance, the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children was given the authority to fully enforce the measure.

“This is a result of our collaborative efforts to provide a brighter future for our children. I hope that all other barangays will replicate our ordinance to gradually eradicate child labor in the city,” Escobia said in the vernacular.

Nef Luczon/PNA

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri shares that he will push for the creation once again of a special body on Marawi rehabilitation and this time it would include the compensation aspect and it will be called the Special Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation and Compensation. (Jason Casas/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur) "As your Senate President, I would do my best to make it a reality," he stressed.

Zubiri has been an ally of the province as he has sponsored and co-authored various legislations in both the Congress and Senate championing the Bangsamoro cause.

These include the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009, the declaration of Eid'ul Adha as a national holiday, and the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) which created the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The incoming Senate President said the crafting of the BOL was the hardest legislation that he authored but the most rewarding one since it has contributed to sustaining peace in the region. He even cited how the gross domestic product of the Bangsamoro region hiked up due to the absence of firefights in its communities.

Zubiri was also one of the authors of the Marawi Siege Compensation bill eyed to help residents of the battle-scarred city build back their homes and livelihood. (APB/PIA-10/ Lanao del Sur)

Read Philippine Muslim Today newspaper. Your source of reliable information on the Bangsamoro.

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Opinion

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

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FRONT PAGE OF LAST WEEK ISSUE

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nxiety remains high among appointed members of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the interim ruling body of the fledgling Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

All of the 80 BTA members, except those who were elected in various positions in this year’s polls, continue serving on holdover capacity after President Duterte did not exercise discretion in an emendatory law allowing him to replace or reappoint his appointees in 2019.

Ostensibly, all appointees of President Duterte hold coterminous status with their benefactor. It is now up for new President Bongbong Marcos (PBBM) to retain or appoint new BTA members. His office has reportedly waited for a shortlist of nominees from both the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the government.side.

The BTA leadership in a recent press conference urged the new President to be “mindful” of the mandate of R.A. 11054 (the BARMM charter) and the 2014 MILF-GPH pact called Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

The BARMM Charter and CAB prescribe for the appointment of BTA members on a 41-39 ratio between MILF and government nominees to ensure the temporal leadership of the MILF in the transitional operation of the autonomous regional governance.

New appointed members of the 80-seat BTA shall elect among themselves their parliamentary officers including the key positions in the BARMM cabinet led by a chief minister, a position currently occupied by MILF Chair Ahod “Hadji Murad” Ebrahim.

But there have been rumors that prominent political leaders, who campaigned for BBM in the recent elections, would insist on their entry to the BTA. Rumored to be likely nominees to the BTA were Sulu reelected Governor Sakur Tan and former Sultan Kudarat Governor Soharto “Teng” Mangudadatu. Both officials campaigned for PBBM. In at least two earlier video-recorded interviews, Ex-Gov. Mangudadatu publicly prominently announced intention to vie for appointment not only as a BTA member but as BARMM chief minister.

The pronouncement has since shaped up anxiety among incumbent BTA Ali G. Macabalang members, who mostly campaigned for Vice President Leni Robredo in the 2022 Presidential election.

But MILF-nominated BTA members led by Ebrahim were confident that the Marcos administration will abide by the mandate of law and the 2014 peace agreement.

Stakeholders of regional autonomy could only remain anxious until PBBM shall have appointed people to compose the interim parliamentary body. The regular members of the parliament will be elected in an election in time with the 2025 local and national polls.

(Comments or reactions to this column may be sent to alimac.bulletin@gmail.com.)

Punchline

SALAMAT | from Page A1

Remembering Ustaz Salamat Hashim Hashim was born in Midsayap, Cotabato (n ow Pagalungan, Maguind anao) on July 7, 1939 to a religious family in a brood of seven. At age six, he was taught by his mother on how to read the Qur’an. In the 1950s, Hashim received formal elementary and high school education and was an honor student, according to Wikipedia.

In 1958, Hashim joined the hajj and decided to stay in Makkah to be mentored by Sheikh Zawawi. He was a regular attendee of halaqat at the Masjid al Haram. He also underwent studies at the Madrasat asSulatiyah ad-Diniyah, the Wikipedia narrative says.

The following year, Hashim moved to Cairo to pursue further studies.

He enrolled at the AlAzhar University where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in theology, majoring in Aqeedah and Philosophy in 1967 and a post-graduate master’s degree in the same university in 1969. He pursued a doctorate degree but did not finish writing a dissertation due to his decision to return to the Philippines to help organize a Moro revolutionary movement.

Hashim along with other Muslim militants including Nur Misuari of Sulu, Abul Khayr Alonto

and Dimas Pundato of Lanao del Sur founded the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in the 1970s. Hashim left the MNLF in the later part of the decade to form the MILF and advance advocacy for Islamic society and governance.

He died on July 13, 2003 while in the MILF camp in Butig, Lanao del Sur, due to health complications. The MILF as a group only publicly confirmed his death on August 5.

The MILF Central Committee chose Ahod Balawag Ebrahim as Hashim’s successor.

Ebrahim was more known then as “Hadji Murad” while serving as vice chairman and chief of staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).

The late Hashim fer-

vently advocated for moral or Islamic society and governance, a campaign the Ebrahim-led MILF is pursuing in its transitional stewardship of the BARMM parliament and bureaucracy.

Skepticism about the MILF becoming an effective handler of civil government has been gradually fizzling out when the BARMM governance, in its first three years of reign, started to succeed in development dimensions where past autonomous administrations in Muslim Mindanao had left gray areas.

In honor of the late MILF founding chairman, the BARMM leadership through its Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILF) launched about two years ago the Salamat Hashim Seal of Award program to cite

workers in the region known for excellence in their respective jurisdictions and responsibilities.

Initially, the award program covers local government units within BARMM, but MILG Minister Naguib Sinarimbo said it would eventually expand to recognizing professionals excelling in their different callings within the region.

BARMM Senior Minister Abdulraof Macacua, more known then “Sammy Almansoor” and “Sammy Gambar” in the BIAF which he concurrently heads as chief of staff, told the Philippine Muslim Today news that their administration has already started building community learning centers where Islamic studies would be taught.

One of the centers was completed last April in Barangay Gambar of Kabuntalan, Maguindanao, the birthplace of SM Macacua from which he derived his revolutionary name as “Sammy Gambar.”

BARMM’s Minister of Basic, Higher and Technical Education Mohagher Iqbal, concurrent MILF vice chairman, also envisions inspiring the teaching of moral or Islamic society studies in pilot regular classrooms, according to sources in his ministry. (AGM)

The Nation

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

Fairer Senate Blue Ribbon with new rules, assures incoming chair

By Wilnard Bacelonia

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ANILA – The incoming chair of the Senate Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations, otherwise known as the Blue Ribbon Committee, will be improved with new rules.

Senator Francis Tolentino, the presumptive committee chair in the 19th Congress, said Friday that among the new rules are separation of detention and commitment orders; process of preliminary determination; referral to prosecute; and establishment of the Blue Ribbon General Counsel. "’Yung (The) preliminary determination, ibig sabihin, bago po isalang ay magkakaroon po ng set ng committee para i-determine kung meron bang substantial likelihood na dapat mag-proceed (It means, before being summoned, there will be a committee to determine if there is a substantial likelihood to proceed), merong (if there is) probable cause, etc.," Tolentino said in an interview with a news program.

Tolentino explained that the referral to prosecute needs to be signed by the committee chairperson and approved by the Senate President before sending it to court.

The Blue Ribbon General Counsel will focus on speedy prosecution.

"Isa po itong mataas na posisyon. Siguro kukuha po tayo dito ng isang retired justice na hahawak nito para nang sa ganun po eh tuloy-tuloy po yung pagaaral ng pag-prosecute (This is a high position. Maybe we'll get a retired justice for this so that the study and prosecution will be continuous)," Tolentino said.

Tolentino said the rules have been stagnant for quite a while now and they deemed upgrades are needed.

He vowed to be fair in the conduct of hearings which he said will strictly adhere to the rule of law.

(From left) Senators Imee Francis Tolentino, and Ronald dela Rosa during a hearing at the 18th Congress (PNA File photo) In a recent interview, presumptive Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri confirmed that the Senate "super majority" have decided on Tolentino to head the Blue Ribbon committee, despite the pronouncement of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano that he would join the minority instead if he won’t be picked to head the committee.

In a statement on Thursday, Cayetano said Tolentino is an excellent choice.

"I fully support his chairmanship of this vital committee. I pray that he will do all he can to make this government truly accountable to the people," he said.

Cayetano said he is still weighing his options on whether to join the majority or the minority.

"Sinasabi ko nga na lahat naman qualified. Kahit po si Senator Cayetano, kwalipikado po siya (I am saying that all are qualified) as a former Speaker of the House. Nagpapasalamat din nga pala ako sa pagsuportang ibinigay niya (I thank him for the support he gave me)," Tolentino said. (PNA)

PBBM shocked, saddened by Shinzo Abe’s assassination MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed “shock and deep sadness” over the fatal shooting of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. “It is with shock and deep sadness that I learned of the passing of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo,” Marcos said in a statement posted on his official Facebook account late Friday night.

Abe, 67, died in a hospital after he was shot while delivering a speech at a political campaign event on a street in the city of Nara on Friday morning.

According to reports, the suspect, identified as Tetsuya Yamagani, admitted to shooting Abe with a handmade gun.

Marcos paid tribute to Abe, acknowledging the former Japanese leader’s key role in strengthening the ties between Japan and the Philippines.

“On behalf of the Philippine Government and the Filipino people, among whom he counts many friends and admirers, I offer my most profound sympathies to his family and the entire Japanese nation,” he said.

“He (Abe) was a devoted friend and a supporter of the Philippines, and it was during his leadership that the Philippine-Japan relations truly flourished.”

Marcos also honored Abe for the “decisive and effective” assistance he had provided to the Philippines during the latter’s

tenure.

“The decisive and effective assistance he extended to the Philippines and the warmth he demonstrated in the numerous visits he made to our country will never be forgotten, and will be written as one of the most exceptional periods in our bilateral history,” he said.

Marcos also hailed Abe for being a “visionary leader who saw Japan through its most difficult times.”

He joined the world leaders in praying for Japan after Abe’s assassination.

“I earnestly hope and pray for strength for the Japanese nation during this time of mourning,” he said.

Former president Rodrigo Duterte, in a separate statement, also expressed “deep regret and profound sadness” over the untimely demise of Abe. “I extend my sincerest

condolences to his wife, Madame Akie, and family on this tragedy. I also join the Japanese People in mourning his loss and in condemning the senseless act of violence,” Duterte said.

He recounted that Abe “was not just the first foreign leader to visit the Philippines after my election but was also the only foreign leader to visit my home in Davao City.”

“For this, I will always hold him close to my heart and cherish the moments we have shared together,” he said. “It is my hope that, as we remember his legacy, we will continue to learn and draw from his dedication to duty and remarkable leadership moving forward.”

Abe was Japan’s longest-serving prime minister, holding office from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020.

He stepped down in 2020 because of health reasons. He later disclosed that he had suffered a relapse of ulcerative colitis, an intestinal disease. Ruth Abbey Gita -Carlos/PNA

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Marcos Jr. on Eid’l Adha: Break chains of hate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated his campaign message of unity, as he extended on Friday his greetings on Eid’l Adha.

Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to go beyond their differences and "break the chains of divisiveness."

Earlier, he declared July 9, Saturday, a regular holiday in observance of the Muslim Festival of Sacrifice.

“Let us… offer ourselves for the sake of others and take to heart the lessons we learn so that we may be rewarded spiritually and become worthy recipients of Allah’s manifold blessings and protection,” he said.

Eid’l Adha, he added, reminds us of the importance of pushing past the comfort zone when it comes to decision-making.

“The journey ahead of us will not be easy, but if we fight for what is right and predicate our every action on our love for our fellowmen and women, our people will surely benefit from the results of our individual choices,” said Marcos Jr. The President also asked everyone to “offer ourselves for the sake of others and take to heart the lessons we learn today so that we may be rewarded spiritually and become worthy recipients of Allah’s manifold blessings and protection.”

"As we join hands towards achieving our shared goals, I hope that we will transcend our differences, break the chains of divisiveness, and emerge strong as one nation," he added.

Muslims on Eid'l Adha slaughter sheep, goats, cows, and camels to commemorate the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismael (peace be on him) at Allah's command.

Marcos remembered how "Ibrahim offered his son in obedience to Allah," saying that "in entrusting ourselves and surrendering our worries to Supreme Authority, all our hearts’ desires for the greater good will be heard and granted."

"This day reminds us that, with deep faith and loyalty to our virtues, we can take risks for hefty costs, even if it means losing those whom we love and letting go of many things that matter to us," Marcos said.

The President also said that at the beginning of his administration, the country should prepare "to go beyond our comfort zones as we walk the path we have willingly chosen."

"The journey ahead of us will not be easy, but if we fight for what is right and predicate our every action on our love for our fellowmen and women, our people will surely benefit from the results of our individual choices," Marcos said. (With agencies) MASIDING NOOR YAHYA

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Islamic World

PERMA: A basic theory of well-being through the lens of Islamic guidance and counselling

“

Do not be sad, for sadness, grief, and anxiety are the roots of mental problems, the sources of stress.” Ãid al-Qarni

IMADODIN BASAR DIMAO

I

t’s been two-decade since the original publication of “Don’t be sad” book by one of the esteemed Muslim scholars, Dr. Ãid al-Qarni, which was first written in Arabic via ’‫‘ال تحزن‬and eventually translated into hundred languages both local and international for its beneficial impact on the believers and the nonbelievers alike. However, for our Ulama, most of the gems provided there are not new as far as Arabic books are concerned, especially for the endless wisdoms of the holy Qur’an and the noble Hadith. To be fair with other Islamic books of the same subject matter, they are must -read too or even more informative for Arabic speakers.

What made the book exceptional and aesthetic however is that it tackled both Clinical and Positive Psychology based on Islamic perspectives that strikingly surprised those are unaware of the reality of Islam, a religion that cures misery and helplessness and promotes well-being and serenity once the faith is firmly instilled in one’s self for more than fourteen centuries when Psychology was far from establishment. For us, the variables toward happy life are encapsulated in two things: Righteous act and Faith when the Almighty Allah said “Whoever acts righteously whether male or female, and he is a believer, we will certainly provide him with a happy life. 16:97” When COVID 19 first shook up the entire humanity two years ago to which our peace of mind has been severely affected, one of the Specializations that has been being sought after in Coursera, among other educational platforms, I believe, is “Foundations of Positive Psychology” packed with other emerging fields that study has recently shown such as: Grit by Angela Duckworth and Resilience

by Karen Reivich. And what significantly makes me curious the most is the so-called PERMA introduced by Dr. Seligman, the father of Positive Psychology that stands for: Positive Emotions, Engagements, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments.

Equipped with Islamic foundation with considerable capability to speak and write in Arabic, I allowed myself to get involved in this field in a self-paced way – thanks to Coursera for this opportunity – in an investigative approach whether there’s resemblance between Positive Psychology and Islamic belief, given the said theory has its binary consequences toward us Muslims: one is useful undoubtedly for all, and the other is unsafe even proscribed specially for those who basically lacked knowledge in Islam as far as Aqidah or Islamic creed is concerned.

Thus, I feel the sense to deep dive into what our religion has to say about this.

Positive Emotion: This route to well-being is hedonic – increasing positive emotion. Within limits, we can increase our positive emotion about the past (e.g., by cultivating gratitude and forgiveness), our positive emotion about the present (e.g., by savoring physical pleasures and mindfulness) and our positive emotion about the future (e.g., by building hope and optimism). University of Pennsylvania The author: Islamically, this can be relatively considered as tafāol or simply means optimism. The Almighty Allah has said “And who despairs of the mercy of his Lord, except those that are astray? 15:56” It’s also one of the best forms of Tawakkul or a complete reliance on Allah, the Exalted. The prophet has said “If you all depend on Allah with due reliance, He would certainly give you provision as He gives it to birds who go forth hungry in the morning and return with full belly at dusk.”

Engagement: Engagement is an experience in which someone fully deploys his skills, strengths, and attention for a challenging task. According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, this produces an experience called “flow” that is so gratifying that people are willing to do it for its own sake, rather than for what they will get out of it. University of Pennsylvania (TO BE CONTINUED)

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa To Deliver The Hajj 2022 Khutbah S heikh Muhammad bin Abdul Karim AlIssa has been appointed Khateeb of Hajj 1443 (2022) by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

The Sheik will deliver the Hajj Khutbah on Friday, 9 Dhul Hijjah 1443 from Masjid Al Namirah, Arafat.

Dr. Al-Issa is the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, a Makkah-based nonprofit organization representing Muslims worldwide. Additionally, he heads the Saudi Defense Ministry’s Intellectual Warfare Center, which combats extremist and terrorist ideologies.

Dr. Al-Issa has received numerous national and international awards as a leader in promoting interreligious dialogue and moderation and fighting extremism and hate speech.

Dr. Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa To raise global awareness about Islam’s true message of empathy, understanding, and cooperation, His Excellency Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading voices on moderate Islam.

Dr. Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa

South African man reaches Makkah after a 3-year walk for the Hajj

By PMT Desk

A

South African man has reached Makkah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on foot for three years to perform Hajj, media reports said.

The Islamic Information, an online news portal, said three years after Saheed, a Cape town resident, set off from his home country for Islam’s holiest place, he

made a record after reaching Makkah on foot.

The report said the man traveled through several African and European countries before reaching his destination.

Saheed started his journey on August 30, 2018, walking through Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya, Sudan, Egypt, and Palestine, where the COVID-19 border lockdown forced him to halt.

Saheed goes on a 3-year walk for Hajj to Makka.

He stayed in Palestine for over a year.

As a result of the reopened border, the man continued walking through Jordan, Medina, and Mecca.

Saheed said he would travel back by foot after the Hajj.

Shortly after arriving in Saudi Arabia, he spoke to reporters about his experience.

(PMT)

BARMM compound to host Eid’l Adha Congregation on Saturday

BARMM Advisory The Bangsamoro Government will host the Eid’l Adha Congregation on Saturday, July 9, 2022, at the Bangsamoro Government Center Compound in Cotabato City.

Normally, the Eid’l Adha prayers start early before 7:00 AM. (PMT) If you wish to contribute some articles for publication in the Philippine Muslim Today newspaper about Islam as a religion and a way of life, you may email it to: muslimtoday2020@gmail.com All materials submitted for publication are subject to editorial policy.

Business News & Classified Ads CLASSIFIED ADS NOTICE FOR CORRECTION OF ERRORS Errors in advertorial shall be brought to the attention of the Editors within or not later than 3 weeks following its publication to make necessary erratum. — Editors

PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY INC. SEC Co. Reg. No. 2021030008913-02 TIN: 602-795-878-00000 PHILGEPS Red Registration ID No. 287438

DTI chief urges retailers to accelerate digital transformation MANILA – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual on Thursday urged retailers to accelerate the adoption of digital technology in their operations for them to thrive on the challenging path to recovery.

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

A7

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;

ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCT FOR SALE OR PROPERTY FOR RENT FOR FREE

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;

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

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;

WE ACCEPT

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

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

WANTED CORRESPONDENTS AND WRITERS. Send application & resume to: muslimtoday2020@gmail.com

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

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;

During the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) general membership meeting, Pascual said he envisions the adoption of digital transformation down to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help them improve their productivity, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and earn more profit.

The new DTI chief also encouraged retailers to promote digital payment.

“Digitizing merchant payments is of utmost importance and that will be an important instrument for facilitating transactions between consumers and retailers. I urge PRA to recalibrate and accelerate digital transformation, especially of micro, small, and medium enterprises, by the promotion of digital payments, as well as digitalization of processes of retailers,” he said.

Amid rising commodity prices, Pascual enjoined retailers to cooperate with the DTI for consumer protection and empowerment.

“We aim to ensure the availability of basic necessities and prime commodities to our fellow Filipinos at affordable prices, and we will do so by closely monitoring prices so that there is no manipulation, there is no profiteering, there is no hoarding, and there is no cartelization, and when needed, negotiating with manufacturers and producers,” he added.

Pascual also encouraged retailers to take advantage of the Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA) by partnering with foreign companies.

He said with the enactment of the RTLA, the new law will usher in some PHP54 billion in foreign investments within five years.

Pascual also urged PRA to collaborate with DTI to initiate the Philippine Skills Framework for Retailers (PSF-Retailers).

“The proposal is to adopt the Singapore Skills Framework for Retail, with the proposed PSF seeking to help persons who wish to join and advance in the retail sector analyze their career interests, locate relevant training programs to enhance their skills, and prepare for the desired job roles,” he said.

He assured retailers that the DTI will continue to push for policies that will foster the growth of the retail sector across the country.

Kris Crismundo/PNA

NOVENA TO ST. JUDE To Saint Jude, Holy Saint Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsmen of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depths of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition, in return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. Saint Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen.

Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Marys and 3 Glory Be to the Father for nine days. Publication must be promised.

Wwww.saintjudethaddeus.com

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.

A8

Special Feature

The Famous Maranao Torogan in the Islamic City of Marawi (1)

By Datu Casan Conding Cana

Vol. III, No. 04 | July 11-17, 2022 (Zulhijjah 11-17, 1443)

The MNLF Top 90 Legendary Journey of the Pioneering MNLF Members of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Known as the TOP-90 of The Emerging Bangsamoro Mujahideen as a National Army of the Bangsamoro Republic

INTRODUCTION

By

Bismillah Rahmaanir Raheem Assalamu Alaikum Wa RAhmatullahi Wa Barakhatoh!

The newly constructed concrete Torogan building was made possible thru the kind support and deep concern of Honorable Mayor Atty. Majul Usman Gandamra, Al-Haj for the preservation of a century aged ancestral Heritage such as the famous Torogan of Dayawan Amito Marantao in Marawi City. We say, Alhamdulillah with sincerity for the Honorable Marawi City Mayor. May ALLAH swt bless you, your staff and family circle. Allahu Akbar!

VISION The emergence and development of a well-kept and well-managed Museum and cultural Center for Maswarah for the welfare, peace, unity, joy, and prosperity of the people in the POLO area and especially the folks in Dayawan Amito Marantao that also serves as community Folk Songs, Music, Dances, and the Arts shall be preserved and promoted.

MISSION To mobilize, with respect, all concerned individuals, organizations and agencies both public and private, domestically and internationally for the efficient realization of the above stated vision and the continued operation of the former Torogan in a very democratic manner in accordance with the Malay-inspired adat on the matter.

BRIEF HISTORY Events that led to the conceptualization and construction of the famous Torogan of Dayawan Amito Marantao.

The impact of the emergence of non-Arab empires in the Islamic world started, interchanging in a grandeur time respectively, like the great Malaccan Islamic empire in the Malay World and the Rise of the Nine Sultanates of Malaysia (1550-1800. The sophisticated rise of the Mamluk Islamic Empire in the sub-continental of India-Pakistan (1526-1857) that give rise to great Muslim leaders like Shah Jahan who built that Taj Mahal, one of the World’s wonders. The rise of a great empire in the Eurasaia, The Ottoman Empire led by Sultan Usman, a great Turkish leader of all times. It led to the spark of the European Renaissance and command the European nations to begin to search for the new trade routes to the Far East, marking the beginning of the age of Exploration (1299-1923).

Along these great periods of times, we saw the emergence of the Bruneian Sultanate (1400), The Sulu Sultanate (1425), also the Maguindanao Sultanate (1450), the Kabuntalan and the Raja Buayan Kingdoms. In the Ranao Pangampongs with the 16 Ruling Sultanate and the 28 legislative Sultanates, circa 1500-1800.

As this was the background, some Ranao Leaders built the Torogan or Istana in their respective region in Bayabao, Unayan, Masiu, and Balo-i. They built in accordance with their respective communities’ capacities.

DREAM FULFILLED Somewhere in the year 1800-1850, Spanish Colonial Time in the Philippines. It was inspired by the desire to have Catawan Amito Marantao be counted as one of the emerging communities with a Torogan.

Al-Marhum Sultan Sharief Cotawato Maguinadan Boowa, with the help of his cousins and brothers, like Bacarat, Capal, Conding, Matanggo, Rodi, Hj. Omar Angongo, and other close relatives had agreed to build trhe Torogan. It was a community brotherhood Bayanihan, an act of family unity and cooperation.

(TO BE CONTINUED)

MORO HASSANIB BIN PATRA NUMBER 14 – AB KUDARAT GROUP OF THE TOP 90 MNLF COMMAND HEADQUARTERS BANGSAMORO REPUBLIC

2nd of a Series

T

he first batch was composed of 20 after the inclusion of Brother Camlian cousins, like Imam, Sali Wali, George, Clay, and Manan from Cotabato and Badio Hassa, Hj. Hudan, and Boy Alver Alonto.

During our 2 months stay in Zamboanga that was October to November 1968, our budget or finances became zero. Hj. Abdullah Camlian has to collect some valuables including my very precious Omega Seamaster Watch with Golden buckle, in order to meet our needs. Alhamdulillah, we were able to regain our financial support.

All roads led to Zamboanga City. The group arrived by batch of 2’s, 3’s, or 5’s members. This started from our individual homes to Zamboanga City. Each one of us have respective alibis and cover stories to our families.

THE JOURNEY BEGAN: Exactly no one knew how many we were in the first batch, now known as TOP 90. Each one prepared for the trip. Our group, later known as AB or Kudarat Group, was the lead group. We were not aware of the other groups, who would come for the journey.

The first batch, our group arrived in Zamboanga on September 9, 1968. We were housed in Campo Muslim via arrangement of the Green Guards, Brother Hj. Abdullah Camlian. We cooked our own food after a month staying with them.

We had freedom to visit friends and relatives in Zamboanga City. The canteen of Brother Otto Salahuddin was open to us. As told previously, we had financial deficit. Our treasurer on Money Keeper told us that we need funds, so we collected and sacrificed our valuables in order to meet our daily needs. We have to endure.

On December 30, 1968, we were advised to prepared for our departure. First to Sulu, then to our destination via one big speed boat.

As the night goes by, it was about 9 PM, when we struck by big waves with strong winds. We taught the boat to sink! Brother JPL was our team leader when he shouted to get the ropes and tie to ourselves with the woods beside the seat-boat. We did follow him, as we sailed. Alhamdulillah, in the morning about Fajr Time, our boat captain shouted we arrived in the Vicinity of Tawao Pantalan, in Kota Kinabalu and Alas! We arrived and met by the local Malaysian Soldiers. After we docked, we were led to a Bodega or Warehouse, where we changed clothes to Military clothings.

From there we took military car going to a mountainous area of the city of Kota Kinabalu over a high place with an isolated house where we stay for about a month. Our daily food sustenance was sufficient; they were the one who cool for us. Our Malaysian Trainors devoted their time in briefing us on Islamic orientation and lessons in Guerilla Warfare during daily physical exercises.

On February 3, 1970, our sponsors led us to KK airport for our destination Journey in Perak. It took us about 2-hours to reach our destination at Perak Airport. A car was waiting for us. We reached the State of Perak in the afternoon. Perak is one area near Kuala Lumpur. Then, we proceed to Panglor Island via a place called, Lumut. Lumut now is the ground area where all vital naval equipment of Malaysia are being secured. The area of Pangkor is about 30-minutes from Lumut. Pangkor is an island, no one was there at that time or our arrival. We were given tools to clear the area.

The following days, the are was cleared for our camp. We built our own camp site, Known as the Kudarat AB. Each one of us was given our own badge number. Mine was 14. They handed to each one of us a complete bedding, blanket, and other basic needs.

Our Kudarat AB was the 1st batch of the TOP 90.

Our team leader was JPL with Brother Bobby Alonto and Brother Camar Riga as assistants. Our task was to clear the area with our Malaysian Trainors. We built our own Suraw or Small Masjid, our Dining Hall or Canteen, and out kitchen with storeroom, also our own Medical Clinic or infirmary for medical emergencies, which was manned by a male nurse, we called him Doc. Brother Abul and Brother Ronnie Malaguiouk were with CD group. Brother Nur Misuari and Brother Duma were with EF group. The rest of us were with the succeeding groups. Therte were total 5 groups, namely AB, CD, EF, G, and H groups. There total members was 90, the so called – TOP 90 of MNLF. TOP 90 GUERILLA SUBJECTS While inside the camp for about 15 months, rigid military training on guerilla warfare, subject on physical fitness, weapon handling (SLR Rifles and AK 47), making of Improvised Explosive Device (IEDs), Escaping and ambush Plans and Tactics, Attack and retreating tactics with cover. These were extensively taught to us and were done repeatedly during our trainings.

On physical Fitness exercises, Brother Duma Sani was tapped to handle the basic Karate, Judo, and related exercise. This was due top the advance training of Brother Duma which was given recognition by our Malaysian Training Staff.

Even our Malaysian Staff had enrolled in this Program under Brother Duma. Also, some of us especially the Tausugs and Yakans joined their Silat Defense Program done by our Malaysian Staffs.

BACK TO MINDANAO AGENDA After a few months, we were advised to prepare for our return home to our homeland in Mindanao, Philippines.

It was early on June 7, 1971, we took two Military cars from Lumut, Perak to our destination area for our departure to Kota Kinabalu where big boats were waiting for us all.

ARRIVAL IN MALABNG Alhamdulillah, we arrived solemnly in a quiet place somewhere in Malabang, our leaders were waiting for us led by the father of Speaker Pangalian Balindong, BARMM Parliamenmt, the late Mayor Sultan Tanawn Balindong. They housed us in a big Torogan, where we offered prayer for the blessings of Allah s.w.t. has granted us to be back home, Alhamdulillah.

As a gesture of love, care, and concern for our people – The Bangsamoro, we were given the maximum sense of hospitality and security by the people of Malabang in the area.

SOME HISTORICAL THOUGHTS TO PONDER ON THE PROMPTING HISTORICAL CIRCUMSTANCES Historians consider the Spanish – Moro wars as one of the longest anti-colonial war in the world. It also resulted in deeply rooted feelings of resentment and ill feelings between the “Filipinos” and the Bangsamoros.

The success of Spanish Colonization in the north also heightened the degree of estrangement and animosity that divided the Bangsamoro from the majority of the Filipinos.

While the Bangsamoro could be decreed to have encouraged victories in the sense that they succeeded in preserving their freedom, faith, and homeland, they were severely battered. The final blow was to be delivered by US imperialism.

The Spanish rulers utilized the classical “divide and rule” strategy and made use of characterized natives, “indios” in their military expedition against the Bangsamoro people. It was due to the strength of the Maranaw Pangampongs, their Islamic beliefs, ande the advanced economies fought the Spaniards offensively for 330 years (TO BE CONTINUED)