Philippine Muslim Today

(Rajab 8-14, 1444)

Bearer of Glad Tidings | Philippine First Muslim Digital Newspaper

MARAWI BAGS FOR 3RD TIME LOGFA AWARD

The City Government of Marawi is grateful for the recognition of being a third time awardee of the Local Government Functionality Appraisal (LoGFA) given by the Bangsamoro Government annually.

Represented by PESO Manager Cabsaran Ali A. Pacasum and CPOC Focal Nasief I. Corobong on the Bangsamoro Governance Day, the good Mayor, Atty. Majul U. Gandamra, shares this recognition to all his hardworking employees and to all the partners of the local government of Marawi who have been supportive to his programs all throughout. |

Maguindanao Sur public officials, youth join talks

on proposed

Electoral

Code

By ABDULLAH MATUCAN | BANGSAMORO INFORMATION OFFICE

MAGUINDANAO DEL

SUR Provincial officials down to the barangay council along with accredited youth organizations in Maguindanao del Sur joined today, Jan. 30, a public consultation on proposed Bangsamoro Electoral Code (BEC) in Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur.

Said event is part of the last league of the public consultant on proposed Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Bill number 29, which is now pending in the parliament. The same event has been

BARMM A2

BARMM honours winners of annual Qur’an recitation, memorization

done as well in the Provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, including Cotabato City.

Deputy Speaker and Member of Committee on Rules Atty. Omar Yasser Sema of the BTA Parliament said that his team is ready to listen to the views and opinions of the attendees.

"Andito po tayo ngayon para makinig sa inyo upang mai-consider sa ating committee report ukol sa ating proposed elctoral code," Sema said

The proposed bill is one

of the priority codes stipulated in the Republic Act 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which the BTA needs to enact into law within its transition period. This measure will define the structural, functional, and procedural principles on matters pertaining to election in the region.

Accordingly, the proposed measure, like any other legislations in the country, polarizes the public, particularly on its adherence to the 1987 Philippine Constitution. However, Lawyer Sema stressed that

such scenario in legislation is not unusual.

"Napakaganda po ng ating 1987 Constitution. Naiintindihan po natin iyong concern sa mga constitutional concerns sa ating electoral code, at tayo po sa BTA ay sinisugurado natin na nababalanse natin ito," Member of Parliament (MP) Semasaid.

In November last year, BTA secretariat had sent out invitations and copies of the draft electoral code to all local officials through the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG). To ensure that officials have first-hand infor-

The Provinces Tawi officials, BTA land at KK

Taking the lead in advancing the economy of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the provincial government of Tawi-Tawi together with Members of Parliament of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BATA) sent recently an official delegation to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, for a series of trade, tourism, and investment exchanges toward mutual economic and social development between Sabah, Malaysia and the Bangsamoro autonomous region in the Philippines..

mation on the proposed bill prior to the publoc consultation, they personally visited them in their respective offices.

Meanwhile, Provincial Administrator of Maguindanao del Sur Atty. Cyrus Torreña, who attended the event thanked the BTA for innitiating the consultation, stating, “the electoral code is a very important code that weneed togive preference.”

During the consultation, BTA members who spearheaded the event encouraged everyone to submit their position papers on or before February 1 but as

National A6

requested by parties in attendance, the committee agreed to receive position papers until Feb. 13 through the following email addresses: parliamentary.rules@bt a.gov.ph or parliamentary.r ead@bta.gov.ph.

Other legislators present in the event included MPs Abdullah Hashim, Michael Midtimbang, Tawakal Midtimbang, Engr. Baintan Ampatuan, Bassir Utto, and Datu Ali Sangki.

On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the last round of the consultation for the BEC will be held in Marawi for the Lanaodel Sur province. (BIO)

House bill empowers PBBM to suspend PhilHealth premium hike

Five House of Representatives leaders have filed an urgent bill empowering President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to suspend the increase in premiums of “direct contributors” of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), including employees.

In filing House Bill (HB) No. 6772, the authors said the nation has barely recovered from losses and difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and many peopleremain jobless.

ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL

BARMM honours winners

of annual Qur’an recitation, memorization

BARMM starts greening program in urban spaces

By MAJID NUR/Bangsamoro Information office

COTABATO CITY–The Bangsamoro Government through the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) launched on Wednesday,

Jan. 25, an integrated greening program that targeted urban areas, which was piloted within the Bangsamoro Government Center (BGC) in this city.

COTABATO CITY – Participants from Maguindanao del Sur and Lanao del Sur were hailed as winners of the recently concluded region-wide 3rd Qur’an recitation and memorization competition for male and female categories held here at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex (SKCC), Bangsamoro Government Center, from Jan. 20-22, 2023.

Led by the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) through its Directorate General for Madaris Education (DGME), the annual competition is part of the Bangsamoro Government’s commitment to promote the value of Qur’an reading among the Bangsamoro people.

The champions of the competition received certificates and cash prizes worth Php100,000.00 while the first placers took home Php 75,000.00, followed by the 2nd placers with Php 50,000.00.

Dubbed as 'BUFFER' or Bangsamoro Urban Forest for Ecological Reforestation, the activity targets to grow trees within BGC to promote urban mini-forest and increase attraction for the Bangsamoro seat of the regional government.

“It has been the ministrys responsibility to ensure that the Bangsamoro environment is protected and conserved, that our natural and energy resources are sustainably managed and developed,” MENRE Minister Akmad Brahim said.

Through Integrated Bangsamoro Greening Program, we aim that the massive reforestation will be another strategy toward climate change mitigation and disaster risk reduction adaptation in the BARMM,” Brahim said.

Thefollowing arethe list of winners:

Qur’an recitation (Al-Mujawwadah)

Champion: Sadhan Zacaria(Maguindanao II

1st: Kamaroddin Zaidon (CotabatoCity)

2nd: Ahmad Muhammad Nazir Asgar (LDS II)

Qur’an Memorization (Tahfeez) Male Category

Champion: Muzaher Bito (Maguindanao II)

1st: Mohammad Asiddin (Basilan)

2nd: Abduljalal Hassan (Maguindanao II)

Qur’an Memorization (Tahfeez) Female Category

Champion: Najaah Kadafie(LDS II)

1st: Rohaima Guiafar (LDS I)

2nd: Fairods Zacaria(Maguindanao II)

Najaah Kadafie, 14, from Maa'had Amal in Marantao, LDS, extended her gratitude to the leadership of BARMM for spearheading the event.

Kadafie earned the title of Hafidha someone who has not only learned to read the Qur'an, but memorized it. She said it is a huge accomplishment to be thechampion of theprestigious competition.

"Maliit pa ako ay itinuro na sa akin ang Qur'an hanggang sa ito na ang nakasanayan ng aking puso," Kadafie said.

"Nakita namin ang pagsisikap ng Bangsamoro Government na bigyan halaga ang pag-aaral ng Islamic Education partikular ang Qur-an Idinadalangin ko na ipagpatuloy nila ang kanilang patuloy na atensyon dahil ito ay tungkol sapag-aaral ng mga huling salita ng Allah (SWT)," she added.

During the awarding ceremony, Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal stressed the essence of promoting Qur'an literacy and teaching its recitation, and memorization to every Muslim.

"We believe in Islam and we have the Holy Qur’an that we must learn including its ethics and rules toguide us in the right path,” Iqbal said.

"Alam nating lahat na ang taos-pusong pagbabasa ng Qur -an ay isa sa mga paraan at napakagandang gawain na maghahatid sa isang Muslim patungo sa Jannah (paradise)," he added.

The minister further said that MBHTE is building more public Islamic Schools or Madrasah in pursuance of Moral Governance.

"The BARMM Government is working hard to address the needs of the Islamic institutions in the region. This includes the continuous hiring of Islamic Studies and Arabic Language or ISAL teachers to provide relevant education," Iqbal said.

JohairaSahidala/BIO

We envision a government center that is ecofriendlier and more pleasing to the eyes of the employees and visitors. We also hope this will install living legacies of different heads and officials, and

may we instill in our hearts the value of love for our environment and promote collective environmental action as we pursue just and lasting peace,” he added.

Meanwhile, BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim said the tree planting activity is part of promoting urbanized redemption of the integrated Bangsamoro greening program.

“One of the greatest challenges not only here but also globally is climate change. We have experienced recently Typhoon Paeng which inflicted hundreds of casualties,” “This simple activity is not only symbolic but also a significant trait for the Bangsamoro in making sure that the environment is well taken care of. This is a move for us to achieve one of our 12-point priority

agenda which is a Bangsamoro that is disaster resilient and adaptive to climate change,” the chief minister added.

“We started in our area to show that we are serious in effort and it will also benefit our compound,” the Chief Minister said, while encouraging other ministries and Members of Parliament to follow suit.

(BIO)

257 BARMM-funded housing units ready for occupancy; ex-combatants, IDPs among target beneficiaries

COTABATO CITY The Bangsamoro Government through the Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD) is set to turn over 257 housing units after a successful ceremonial handover from the latter's contractor today, Jan. 25, in this city.

Of the total units, 150 units under the Resettlement Project will be distributed to Bangsamoro families of former combatants, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), informal settlers, and those poorest of the poor across the region.

Fifty (50) of the units are constructed at Brgy. Tubig Dakula, in Indanan, Sulu, 50 at Brgy. Townsite in Maluso, Basilan, and another 50 at Brgy. Buricain in Pigcawayan Cluster in Special Geographic Area (SGA).

The remaining 107 units under the Ministry's Housing Loan Project can be availed by families of individuals with regular but meager income and current members of the Pag-IBIG Fund. The houses were constructed at Brgy. Semba n Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

In his message, MHSD Director General Esmael Ebrahim disclosed that the ministry will ensure that only qualified beneficiaries will receive the housing units.

"The beneficiaries will be selected based on approved guidelines set by our Ministry with the help of our partners," Ebrahim said.

He also disclosed that beneficiaries will receive the housing units along with their home lot and the land title.

"Dito lang sa BARMM mayroong 3-in-1, may bahay ka na, may lote ka na, may titulo ka pa," he said which made the audiences applaud.

AbdullahMatucan/BIO

MILF, Security forces hold friendship tourney in Marawi

By MAJID NUR / Bangsamoro Information Office

MARAWI CITY A basketball friendship tournament dubbed 'Kambollayoka' among Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Philippine National Police (PNP), and 103rd Philippine Army (PA) commenced on Sunday, Jan. 29 at this city's Camp Ranao in Lanao del Sur.

The event, sponsored by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), in partnership with Strategic Communications and Capacity Building (SCCB), was designed to strengthen camaraderie and coordination among government security sectors [such as the PA, PNP], and the MILF.

According to USIP Visiting Expert Dr. Haroro Ingram, the game’s conceptualization began following a conversation between Commander Billy Dela Rosa of PA and Member of Parliament (MP) Abdullah Makapaar a.k.a. Commander Bravo.

“It [game] began about how we can build peace and friendship at the grassroots level, how potential issues out in the field could be overcome by uniting here,” said Ingram.

“Throughout this entire process of organizing the Kambolayoka (basketball friendship game) event, there was never even a moment of hesitation. Everyone recognized and en-

thusiastically committed to [it], working toward this event,” he added.

Ingram said establishing a relationship and line of communication is imperative in building genuine lasting and sustainable peacein theregion.

“Peace may be planned and conditions agreed upon in government buildings, and hotels in the cities but the actual peace is one, which is sustained, it flourishes in a relentless issue, a full-time commitment that is blocked by block, street by street and like today’s event person by person,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, MP Macapaar said, “no Armed Forces, no MILF, and no

PNP. We are brothers and friends, and will work together for peace here in Mindanao, especially here in Lanao del Sur and Lanaodel Norte."

“Let's prove that we are united, let's get rid of the anger, it's not against each other but as friends and brothers. Let’s develop the Philippines and especially Mindanao,” Macapaar added.

A message of support was also given by PA BGen Yegor Rey Barroquilllo Jr., who has just assumed as commander of 103rd on Jan. 27.

“Our desire here in the province of Lanao is peace and development, this is our collective aspi-

ration, and we can achieve it through unity and cooperation. What we are doing and will do today [really] fits in with what I want to happen in our area in Lanao. Let's have unity and cooperation,” Barroquilllo said.

The participants believed that said event is historic because it is “symbolically and practically important for the Ranao community as it forges relationship, line of communication, and connection to the security sector.”

Joined by at least 180 players, the game will be conducted weekly in different parts of Lanao del Sur.

(BIO)

FRESH WATER FROM THE SEA

For years, this was her and other residents' everyday struggle.

For the Bangsamoro Government, this was a case that needed immediate intervention.

Through the Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG), ten (10) units of desalination machines that will convert salty sea water into fresh drinking water were provided and installed in the island provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi

“Di na kami nahihirapan ngayon, kung dati ay doon pa kami bumibili sa kabila [barangay], ngayon, may libreng tubig na masaya po kami,” Farma said.

WATER plays an important role in our bodies. It flushes waste from the body, regulates body temperature, transports nutrients throughout the body, and so forth.

Around 60 percent of our body is made up of water. That is why drinking potable, fresh drinking water is necessary to supply the needs of our bodies. More than that, it is a necessity used in everyday routines such as cooking, bathing, etc.

In the southernmost part of the Philippines, particularly the island provinces such as Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, access to safe drinking water was one of the main problems.

Farma Lajib Madong, a resident from the island province of Sulu, used to purchase a pale of water worth P30 to P50.

Every day, she traverses kilometers from their barangay to another village just to have potable drinking water.

She emphasized that this project of the Bangsamoro Government has greatly helped and addressed their problem of availing free potable water.

“Malaking tulong po ito sa amin. Atsaka [ngayon] 'di na kami bumibili [ng tubig inumin] doon sa kabila, dito na kami kumukuha,” she added.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa (BARMM) sa pagbigay ng malinis na tubig,” Farma said.

With an amount of over Php143 million, the desalination machines were procured from the 2020 contingency fund of the Office of the Chief Minister, and implemented by MILG under its Project Management Development Division.

This project hopes to cater to more Bangsamoro constituents, specifically in the island provinces. Soon, desalination machines will also be put up in the province of Basilan.

Municipalities of Sapad, Salvador, and Sultan Naga Dimaporo on January 27, 2023.

Funded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office (DSWD) under their Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), the provision of a Php 300 000 livelihood grant was formally distributed to the three associations namely Mindalano PAMANA SLPA (Salvador), Poblacion PAMANA SLPA (Sapad) and Mahayahay PAMANA SLPA (Sultan NagaDimaporo).

This is a program of the DSWD-SLP in line with the government's pursuit of establishing support for the livelihood and economic activities among those residents/ families in isolated, vulnerable, and far-flung areas.

The beneficiaries conveyed their positive responses and gratitude to the DSWD and Governor Angging and said, "this is a big help for all of us, especially as we gradually recover from the disruption of the recent calamities".

TheDSWD-SLP team led by Mr. Richard Tener, SLP Cluster Head, was accompanied by Ms. Annabelle Mendez, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer.

Basilan to enhance services of water facilities

BASILAN The Provincial Finance Committee convened last Wednesday January 25,2023 for the Presentation of the Draft Feasibility Study Report & Concept Design presented by Multi-Infra Konsult, Inc. for the upcoming flagship project of the Provincial GovernmentBasilan Bulk Water Works Supply System.

The project will provide treated bulk water to the various water districts (WDs) of Basilan to help meet the increasing water demand of its consumers, expand its current service area coverage, and increase the households served.

Present during the meeting are Vice-Governor Yusop T. Alano, Provincial Bidget Officer Ms. Intan Gordana Abubakar, Prov’l Treasurer Majad Daggong, Provl Planning and Development Coordinator Engr. Nelson Akmadol, Acting Provl Accountant Ms. Faija Jacaria, Prov’l Legal Officer Atty. Ging Gagarra, Prov’l Veterinary Dr. Sharmaine Tutuh, Provl Agriculturist Dr. Surhayda Aguisanda, Prov’l General Services Officer Omar Suhud, Executive Assistant to the Vice-Governor Mr. Noor Ladjagais, Sir Hadee Hadjala of Provincial Health Office, Engr. Ibrahim of PEO, Provincial Head of MENRE Ms. Marietta Ladjiman, Staff of MPWH Mr. Angeles, General Manager of Isabela Water District Engr. Muctar Muarip, Staff of Maluso and Lamitan Water District, respectively. (Source:FBPageofBasilanProvincialGovernment)

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte - Provincial Governor Imelda 'Angging' Dela Cruz Quibranza graced the turnover of the check worth Php 900,000 to the three (3) associations from the

On Broken Promises and Dole Outs

One cold night a billionaire met an old poor man outside his house. He asked the old man, "don't you feel cold being outside, and not wearing any coat?"

Repost

THE DIMENSIONS OF PEACE EDUCATION

By Atty. MEHOL K. SADAIN

In a land sporadically visited by discontent and violence, peace as they say, is a rare commodity, and has to be treasured. The best way of treasuring it is by inculcating its concept and application in the minds of the people, especially those who are willing to learn.

Among us Muslims living in the Philippines, I can think of three dimensions for learning peace: The first one, and the closest to our hearts, is the dimension of the Qur’an, the Recitation that contains guidance from ALLAH. The second is the dimension of Philippine laws, beginning with the Constitution. And the third is the dimension of our local and native experiences, or the realities on the ground.

The old man replied, "l don't have it but I got used to that."

The billionaire replied, "Wait for me. I will enter my house now and bring you one.'

The poor man got so happy and said he will wait for him.

The billionaire entered his house but got busy there and forgot the poor man. In the morning he remembered that poor old man and he went out to search for him but he found him dead because of cold, but the poor old man left a NOTE, "When I didn't have any warm clothes, I had the power to fight the cold because I was used to that. But when you promised me to help me, I got attached to your promise and that took my power of resisting.

I read and repost the above story from a Facebook post. It seems allegorical but certainly it gives some moral lessons.

One is don't promise anything if you can't keep your promise. It might not mean anything to you, but it could mean everything to someone else.

Second is to never rely on dole out. Laziness and unproductivity make people poor because they don’t want to work hard and smart to due to reliance to dole outs.

Waiting for dole outs such as relief goods and cash assistance wherever they come from weaken the ability and enthusiasm working for a living.

It also promotes immorality among men that they grab even those which are not theirs. Such are prohibited by the law of God and the law of men.

* Mas N. Yahya may be reached at < dingyahya@gmail.com >

Peace education for the Muslims should be anchored on these three dimensions: The Noble Qur’an as the Supreme Guidance; the secular laws to serve as enforceable limits and direction; and our individual field and social realities to keep us grounded in the implementation of peace initiatives. When all three converge, we are assured of a complete approach to peace education. Through this approach, both teacher and students get a sense of peace as a common aspiration, and a holistic condition for the propagation of development and progress in society.

The Dimension of the Noble Qur’an

“And if they incline to peace, incline thou also to it, and trust in ALLAH. Surely, He is the Hearer, the Knower.” [8:61]

The Qur’an expresses peace as a universal yearning. There are many verses (5:16; 6:127; 25:63; 36:58; 56:25-26; 97:5) in the Qur’an where it talks of peace as a universal concept, and uses it as an ideal, as well as adivine, form of greeting.

The word “salaam” comes from “aslama” which is to submit or surrender one’s self to ALLAH by obeying and trusting Him. One who submits is called a Muslim and his religion is Islam. One of the Beautiful Attributes of ALLAH is “As-Salaam” or “The Peace”.

Functionally, “peace” or “salaam” means not just being free from violence or war or any form of physical turmoil or severity. It also means being able to enjoy the blessings of social justice, good governance, economic prosperity, educational access and emotional contentment, the confluence of which is summarized by the word “Sakinah” or “Tranquility”, which we shall see in the Experiential Dimension.

The Dimension of Philippine Laws

The Philippines renounces war as an instrument of national policy and adheres to the policy of peace, equality, justice, freedom, cooperation and amity with all nations. [Art. II, Sec. 2, The 1987 Constitution]

The 1987 Constitution renounces war, and advocates “peace” as a policy of the State. It adheres to the maintenance of peace and order, and the protection of life, liberty and property, and the promotion of the general welfare and social justice for the enjoyment by all people of the blessings of democracy [Art. II, Sec. 5, Constitution]. The stress on peace likewise aims at recognizing the rights of national indigenous communities within the framework of national unity and development.

The Code of Muslim Personal Law enumerates parental duty to the children in Art. 73, part of which provides:

“Every parent and every person exercising parental authority shall see to it that the rights of the children are respected and shall particularly, by precept and example, imbue them with religious and civic consciousness, love of country and attachment to the ideal of permanent world peace.”

The Dimension of Individual and Communal Experience

O ye who believe! Enter into Islam (take the path of peace) wholeheartedly, and do not follow Satan for he is indeed your avowed enemy.” [2:208]

This dimension is at the end only because the framework starts from the universal level and proceeds down to the more specific levels. In truth, however, any attempt at peace always begins at the level of the individual or his personal inclination to search for and achieve, peace or peaceful coexistence. If the individual is not so-inclined, peace-building cannot move on to the higher rungs of the negotiation ladder.

This is where personal “Sakiinah” and the indwelling of peace in each individual comes in, and in turn, translates intocommunal, national and later, global peace.

In Surah Al-Fath (The Victory), ALLAH says: “It is He (ALLAH) who sent down Tranquility (Sakiinah or Inner Peace) into the hearts of the believers, that they may add faith to their faith.” [48:4] And in the same Surah, ALLAH continues, “He knew what was in their heart, and He sent down Tranquility (Sakiinah) to them, and He rewarded them with a speedy victory”. [48:18] Finally, there is the third mention of “Sakiinah” in the same Surah, as follows: “ALLAH sent down His Tranquility (Sakinah) to His Messenger and to the believers, and made them adhere to the commands of self-restraint; and they were all entitled toit and worthy of it.” [48:26]

Notice how inner peace is endowed by ALLAH, and settles in the hearts of people who have faith, and how it is linked with practicing self-restraint and achieving victory. Therefore, the “Peace” that we should learn should be one that is close to our hearts, strengthens our faith and renders us victorious in our quest for self-tranquility.

(Ed Note: This piece was published in Philippine Muslim Today Vol. II, No. 03 | July 2-8, 2021 (Dhu’l Qidah 21-27, 1442) in a regular column entitled “IJTIHAD.”)

Salaamon Aleikum

Mas N. Yahya

LGU Taraka congratulates Gatchalian as new DSWD chief

By ROCAYA SUMNDAD OTICAL The Ranao Star

Tawi-Tawi officials, BTA land at KK

BY MAS N/ YAHYA

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur

The Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Taraka in Lanao del Sur province has expressed their most profound congratulations to former Valenzuela City Mayor and Representative Rex Gatchalian for having been appointed as the new Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

In a statement, Taraka under the leadership of Mayor Amenodin U. Sumagayan said, “Sec. Gatchalian is truly a friend to Taraka, especially that he has fulfilled his duty excellently during his stint as City Mayor and provided the Municpality of Taraka the best practices and benchmark programs of Valenzuela City aimed at mutually benefiting the constituents of both localities, in line with all the agreements and agenda stipulated in the Sister City Agreement of both LGUs.”

“He has also showcased a stellar performance as district representative of thesame city,” it added.

The LGU Taraka wishes all the best for the success of our friend as secretary of DSWD. (with story from LGU Taraka)

(The Ranao Star)

CFSI breaks ground for a Learning Center in Marawi

TAWI-TAWI – Taking the lead in advancing the economy of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the provincial government of Tawi-Tawi sent recently a delegation to Kota Kinabalu for a series of trade, tourism, and investment exchanges toward mutual economic and social development with neighboring Malaysia.

Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) President Datuk Frankie Liew and Deputy President Brett Chua led the welcoming party as 12 contingents from Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament took off from Manila to further the economic engagements between TawiTawi and Sabah.

The delegation was headed by Governor Yshmael "Mang" I. Sali and carried the slogan "Tawi-Tawi to the World."

SCCC President Datuk Frankie Liew and Deputy President Brett Chua led the welcoming party as 12 con-

tingents from Tawi-Tawi Provincial Government and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament took off from Manila to further the economic engagements between Tawi-Tawi and Sabah.

Together with Gov. Mang are BTA Deputy Speaker MP Ben Loong, BTA MP Atty. Jet Lim, Board Members Sabuddin Abdurahim and Dr. Sukarno Asri, Mayor Mohammad Faizal Jamalul of Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi Ministry of Trade Investment and Tourism Provincial Director Termizie Masahud, BIMP-EAGA BARMM Director Popoy Lauddin, Provincial Economic Adviser Sulay Halipa, and Mr. Samilee Pianah.

The visit is a follow-through of the Investment and Economic Tour in October 2021; and a declaration of strengthening ties with the Sabah business sector as Tawi-Tawi takes the lead in advancing the economy of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

(With story from Taw-Tawi LGU)

Bangsamoro Airport Authority to take over Jolo Airport; Sulu plans to relocate Jolo Airport to Maimbung

JOLO, Sulu – Sulu Gov. Abdusakur M. Tan said there are plans to relocate the Jolo Airport to Maimbung municipality as the airport and its surroundings are already congested and aircraft safety might be compromised in thelong run.

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur The Community and Family Services International (CFSI) and its partners held a Contract Signing and Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Construction of the Harmony Learning Center Marawi Project III (HLCMP/3) at Hadiya Village in Marawi City.

With support from the Zapanta Realty and Development Corporation, the project aims to contribute to a healthy, safe, and livable Marawi City by providing access to educational service and facilities to promote their healthy wellbeing.

The Harmony Learning Center will provide a place where the children of Hadiya Village can learn, create, and explore different things around them, and parents can be confident that their children are being cared for in a safe and fun environment.

The event was attended by Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM), City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD), Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), the Department of Education (DEPED), Green Builder and Enterprises, City Engineering Office, Barangay officials, and the Hadiyah Home Owners Association. (PR)

ROCAYA

SUMNDAD OTICAL/The Ranao Star

In a statement via the official Facebook page of the Sulu provincial government, Gov. Tan expressed these plans when he received officials from the Bangsamoro Ministry of Transportation and

Communication (MOTC) led by Engr Nasrodin Masakal at the provincial capitol last week.

Tan said this is also due to Maimbung’s location and near proximity to other municipalities being at the Center of the Sulu Mainland.

During the visit, the statement said, Masakal informed the governor about the transfer of management of the Jolo Airport from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to the

MOTC through its Bangsamoro Airport Authority (BAA).

As to the plan transfer, Masakal sad: “A Feasibility Study on the proposed airport in Maimbung is required.”

Fencing of the Jolo Seaport

Tan also revealed the urgent need to expand the Jolo seaport towards deeper waters.

“At present, due to its shallow depth, only small and medium sized vessels are able to dock at the sea-

port,” he said, adding that “ Load capacity is limited.“

Tan emphasized:

“Having the proper water depth, would allow the seaport to accommodate larger vessels. In effect, increase the volume of trade and transport of goods with other business entities throughout the country, boosting our local industries and spurring economic activity.”

ByMASN.YAHYA

COURTESY CALL: Sulu Governor Abdusakur M Tan receiving BARMM Ministry of Transportation and Communication (MOTC) officers headed by Engr Nasrodin Masakal. They are joined by Jolo Airport Manager Delson S Ismael. (Photo Courtesy of Sulu Provincial Government)

House bill empowers PBBM to suspend PhilHealth premium hike

By PRIAM NEPOMUCENO

MANILA – Five House of Representatives leaders have filed an urgent bill empowering President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to suspend the increase in premiums of “direct contributors” of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), including employees.

Speaker Martin Romualdez, one of the authors, said the suspension of the adjustment would remove an added financial burden on millions of government and private sector workers, professionals, self -employed and other PhilHealth contributors who are still reeling from the pandemic.

He said daily wage earners and many employees, who comprise the majority of PhilHealth members, would save at least PHP50 a month or PHP600 a year from their health insurance premium payment if the adjustment will be suspended.

“Those earning more will naturally save more,” hesaid.

Under Republic Act No. 11223, otherwise known as the “Universal Health Care Act”, contributions will increase this year from 4 percent to 4.5 percent, or from the minimum monthly premium of PHP400 to PHP450.

The rate will further increase to 5 percent starting in 2025.

RA 11223, which was enacted in 2018, is sought

to be amended by the proposed bill.

Other authors of the bill are Majority Leader Manuel Jose Mannix” Dalipe, Senior Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, and Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre.

Their proposed amendment, which was filed on last Jan. 13, states: “The President of the Philippines may, upon recommendation of the PhilHealth board, suspend and adjust the period of implementation of the scheduled increase of premium rates during national emergencies or calamities, or when public interest so requires.

It would be a new paragraph under Section 10 of the law.

In filing the amendatory bill, the authors cited the objective of the Universal

DOJ tells ICC: We’ll settle drug issues on our own

MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Saturday told the International Criminal Court (ICC) that the Philippines will carry out its own investigation into the deaths associated with the anti-illegal drugs campaign waged by former president Rodrigo Duterte.

In filing House Bill (HB) No. 6772, the authors said the nation has barely recovered from losses and difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, as many businesses have yet to reopen, and many people remain jobless.

Health Care Act itself, which is to “ensure that all Filipinos are guaranteed equitable access to quality and affordable health care goods and services and protected against financial risk.”

“The intent of the law is clear and cannot be overemphasized. Filipinos need and deserve a comprehensive set of health services that are cost effective, high quality and responsive to the requirements of all citizens,” they said.

“While PhilHealth only aims to fulfill and remain faithful to its mandate, imposing a higher premium on Filipinos in these current conditions where most of them are grappling with the pandemic will definitely enforce a new round of financial burden toits members,” they added.

Marcos has supported calls to defer this year’s increase in PhilHealth premiums, they said.

They noted that upon the President’s orders, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin has issued a memorandum suspending the adjustment and income ceiling for this year.

“Suspending the imposition of the new PhilHealth premium rates will provide a much-needed relief during national emergencies or calamities and will assure Filipinos that the government is sensitive to their sentiments in this difficult time,” the authors said.

RA 11223 defines direct contributors as “those who have the capacity to pay premiums, are gainfully employed and are bound by an employer-employee relationship, or are selfearning, professional practitioners, migrant workers, including their qualified dependents, and lifetime members.”

The term “indirect contributors” refers to “all others not included as direct contributors, as well as their qualified dependents, whose premium shall be subsidized by the national government including those who are subsidized as a result of special laws."

In July last year, Senator Grace Poe filed a bill seeking power for Marcos to suspend the PhilHealth premium hike.

(PNA)

CSC cites DAR for exemplary performance in public service

MANILA – After the Office of the President gave the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) a pat on the back, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) took its turn in commending the department for exemplary performance in resolving all transactions and complaints referred to it last year.

In a two-page congratulatory letter addressed to DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III, Maria Luisa Salonga the CSC-Public Assistance and Information Office, cited the DAR for resolving all 23 transactions and nine complaints elevated by the CCB (Contact Center ng Bayan) to the DAR from January 1 toDecember 31, 2022.

“Thank you for continuously partnering with the CCB in ensuring that all the feedback is acted upon/resolved as soon as possible. We look forward to our continued partnership in providing efficient and effective public service,” Agamatastated in her letter.

The CCB serves as the public feedback mechanism of the CSC. It seeks to promote accountability among government agencies by providing customers with accessible channels to report feedback on government frontline services.

It was established by virtue of the Republic Act No. 9485, otherwise known as the “Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007” and CSC Resolution No. 1400995 issued in July 2014.

Estrella expressed his deep appreciation for the compliment and assured the CSC and the public, in general, that the DAR would continue exerting and exhausting all efforts in a timely manner to address issues and concerns affecting thepeople. (PR)

During the Saturday News Forum held at Dapo Restaurant and Bar in Quezon City, DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said ICC prosecutor Karim Khan must respect the Philippines' sovereignty and judicial systems.

"We want to express to ICC and to the special prosecutor, Mr. Khan, just to give us time to conduct our own investigation," Clavano said, ensuring that the Philippine government is conducting a “genuine" investigation into drug-related killings in the country.

He said the DOJ opposes the ICC's decision to resume its investigation, considering that the country has a "working" and “organized” justice system compared to some African nations that the international court had investigated.

"These are countries na wala talagang justice system, wala talagang gobyerno (that have no justice system and no functioning government). It’s under chaos. If we accept the decision of the ICC, it is as if we are admitting na (that) we are on the same level as those countries na wala talagang gobyerno (without functioning government)," Clavano said.

"We are going to conduct a full-blown investigation on the past administration's war on drugs. It's not fast. Hindi siya mabilisan (It could not be done immediately). We have to collect the right evidence. We have to obtain the witnesses in these cases. And we have to properly screen all the facts of the cases. So, it takes time. Hindi naman agad-agad makukuha ang (You cannot give immediate) conviction but that is the goal," he added.

In November 2021, the ICC suspended its investigation into the alleged crimes against humanity attributed to Duterte’s drug campaign to assess “the scope and effect of the deferral request” of the Philippine government.

On Thursday, the Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) announced its decision to approve Khan's request to continue its probe into "the Situation of the Republic of the Philippines."

In a statement, the PTC said it is "not satisfied" that the Philippines is conducting relevant investigations "that would warrant a deferral of the Court's investigations on the basis of the complementarity principle."

'Balancing act'

On Friday, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said the Philippines will elevate the case to the ICC Appeals Chamber, emphasizing that the country's domestic investigative and judicial processes should take precedence.

DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the ICC's "unreasonable" decision is not welcome in the Philippines and the DOJ is opposed to "any of these antics that tend to question our sovereignty and our status as a sovereign country."

While the Philippines is no longer under the ICC’s jurisdiction, the government is making an appeal to the international court “out of respect and cooperation,” Clavano said.

"On one hand, the reason why we have to resist their coming in to the country and substituting our judgment to theirs is because we have to protect our sovereignty," he said.

Clavano said the government is also performing a "balancing act" in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to maintain good relations with the international community.

"We are doing this not because we are obliged to but because we respect the processes that they have in the ICC, in the United Nations. We also want to be a participant in the international community," he said. "Sinasabi nila, hindi natin ginagawa ang investigation. Sinasabi natin, ginagawa natin (They are saying we are not conducting an investigation. We are saying otherwise). So, it becomes a balancing act now."

Clavano said the Marcos administration will make sure that those responsible for the alleged unlawful killings will be brought to justice.

"We will show that we have nothing to hide through our local processes, through our local judicial system. Wala naman tayong pino-protektahan dito (We are not protecting anyone here)," he said. "We will not forget our responsibility and our mandate to provide justice to the victims of war on drugs," he said

In March 2018, Duterte ordered the Philippines’ revocation of the Rome Statute that created the ICC after former prosecutor Fatou Bensouda continued with the preliminary examination.

The Philippines formally ended its ties with the ICC on March 17, 2019, or exactly a year after the scrapping of the Rome Statute.

Despite the Philippines' withdrawal, Khan said the ICC retains jurisdiction with respect to alleged crimes that happened in the country while it was a state party from Nov. 1, 2011 to March 16, 2019.

The ICC's investigation covers the conduct of the campaign under Duterte’s watch, as well as alleged killings in Davao City between 2011 and 2016 when the former president was still the mayor..

WAIVER OF RIGHTS

We, the undersigned, of legal age, heirs of the late ABUBACAR LININDING MAUTANTE

1. On August 7, 2023, Mr. Abubacar Mautante passed away;

2. The deceased was an account holder of Philippine National Bank Savings Account and has unclaimed deposit at the time of his death;

3. We are the heirs of the deceased account holder;

4. We hereby waive in favor of our mother MALOLAO M. MAMAKI all rights and interest that we may have over the deposit left by the deceased from the PNB;

5. We hereby release and forever discharge PNB from any and all claim or liability from my co-heirs and/or any other thirdparty claimant in connection with the aforementioned deposit of the above-named person;

6. We are executing this affidavit to attest to the truth of the foregoing facts and statements.

7. Given are the names, relationships and signatures of the heirs of the deceased waiving their rights and interests over the provident benefits due from Pag-IBIG Fund:

Name of Heir Relationship Signature

1. JAMIRAH M. MAUTANTE DAUGHTER SGN

2. JAMAL M. MAUTANTE SON SGN

3. JAMINAH M. MAUTANTE DAUGHTER SGN

4. JAMAIL M. MAUTANTE SON SGN

Witnesses:

ABEDIN MACAPODE SGN SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this 1/20/2023 by the following person/persons, who are known to me or whom I have identified through competent evidence of identity:

Name I.D. Date Issued/Expiration

1. MOLOLAO N. MAMAKI OSCA ID 20192047 12-04-19

2. JAMIRAH M. MAUTANTE PRC - 1310221 02-12-2023

3, JAMAL M. MAUTANTE PASSPORT - P415543713 12-06-2029

4. JAMINAH M. MAUTANTE PRC - 1376306 09-14-2024

5. JAMAIL M. MAUTANTE Driv. Lic.-MO5-19-002400 07-19-2023

That they are the same persons who personally signed before me the foregoing Waiver of Rights and acknowledged that they executed the same.

(SGN)

ATTY. ABDUL JABBAR M. ADAP, REB Notary Public NC-2022-182/Until December 31, 2023

Roll of Attorneys No. 76330

PTR No. 5568542 / January 3, 2023

IBP No. 271314 / Misamis Oriental MCLE Compliance No. VIII-0000574 / Until April 14, 2028

Error in the publication of ads should be reported to the Editors within three weeks after its publication.

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED FERNANDO BESAS BOGLOSA KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

This EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED FERNANDO BESAS BOGLOSA made and executed in City of Iligan, Philippines, this ______________, by and among: HEIRS OF FERNANDO BESAS BOGLOSA

1. EMERITA BOGLOSA also known as (aka) EMETERIA BOGLOSA, of legal age, widow and a resident of Palm Court Subdivision, Tominobo, Iligan City;

2. SUSAN BOGLOSA-HUCKLEBERRY, of legal age, Filipino, married to TERRY HUCKLEBERRY and a resident of Dudenstrasse 1, Tunusstein, Hahn, Germany;

3. HAIDE S. BOGLOSA, of legal age, Filipino, single, and a resident of Palm Court Subdivision, Tominobo, Iligan City;

4. ULYSSES S. BOGLOSA aka MARIO ULYSSES S. BOGLOSA, of legal age, Filipino, married, and a resident of Osmena, Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan;

5. EMILY BOGLOSA-DAROY, of legal age, Filipino, married to WINSTON O. DAROY, JR., and a resident of Zone Jupiter, Brgy. Suarez, Iligan City;

6. ARCHILLES S. BOGLOSA, of legal age, Filipino, single, and a resident of Old, Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan WITNESSETH

WHEREAS, the above-named parties are the sole, legitimate and only heirs of FERNANDO BESAS BOGLOSA who died on August 7, 1994 in Tominobo, Iligan City, without any will;

WHEREAS, said deceased, FERNANDO BESAS BOGLOSA, left parcels of land, situated in Camague, Iligan City, more particularly bounded and described as follows:

TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-43,926 (a.f)

A parcel of land (Lot 3, Block 18 of the subdivision plan (LRC) Psd-89917, being a portion of Lot 1678, Iligan Cadastre, Cad. Rec. No. N-211 (Case N-2), situated in the Barrio of Camague, City of Iligan, Island of Mindanao.

Bounded on:

All of the subdivision plan. Beginning at a point marked on “1” on plan, being S. 67 deg. 07’E., 735.89 m. form B.L.L.M. 6, Iligan Cadastre:

THENCE:

Area : FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTEEN (517) square meters, more or less

Bearings : TRUE

Description of corners : P.S. Cyl. Conc. Mons. 15 x 60 cm.

TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-25,746(a.f)

A parcel of land (Lot 14, Block 1 of the subdivision plan (LRC) Psd-137373, being a portion of Lot 2, Plan II-21897, LRC Rec #20919), situated in the Barrio of Camague, City of Iligan, Island of Mindanao.

Bounded on:

All of the subdivision plan. Beginning at a point marked on “1” on plan, being S. 35 deg. 43’W., 2637.67 m. form B.L.L.M. 1, Mp of Iligan:

Doc. No. 82

Page No. 16

Book No. 1 Series of 2023.

PMT: Jan. 16-22, 2023; Jan. 23-29, 2023; Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2023.

NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT BETWEEN HEIRS WITH SALE OF UNREGISTERED LAND

Notice of Extrajudicial Settlement Between Heirs With Sale of Unregistered Land executed by the surviving heirs of the late ERNESTO LOMBAN JAMIN namely, Merlyn Ansing Jamin (widow of the deceased), Jinky A. Jamin, Alexander A. Jamin, Leila A. Jamin, and Rene A. Jamin; And

CONNAY MARIE C. TABACON, of legal age, single, Filipino and a resident of 6-B Abragan Compound, Sto. Rosario, Iligan City, referred to as the Vendee.

The said deceased at the time of his death left a certain conjugal property situated at Jampasan, Poblacion, Lugait, Misamis Oriental, described as follows:

T.D # 08-2400027

Lot No. 232 - Part Cad. 689

Location: Lugait, Misamis Oriental

Area: 480 sq. m.

Acknowledged before the Notary Public Atty. Constantino D. Silva, as per Document No. 174, Page No. 36, Book No. 50, Series of 2021.

PMT: Jan. 16-22, 2023; Jan. 23-29, 2023; Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2023.

ERRATUM

A portion of the Notice of Extrajudicial Settlement of Land executed by the heirs of the late Roman Pepito was inadvertently published in Philippine Muslim Today issues of Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2022; Dec. 5-11, 2022; and Dec. 12-18, 2022, to wit:

NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF LAND WITH PETITION AND DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE

“Notice of Extrajudicial Settlement of Land with Petition and Deed of Absolute Sale executed by the heirs of the late Roman Pepito the parcel of land…”

It should have been published as follows:

NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF LAND WITH PARTITION AND DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE

“Notice of Extrajudicial Settlement of Land with Partition and Deed of Absolute Sale executed by the heirs of the late Roman Pepito the parcel of land…” Our apology. Editors

THENCE:

Area : FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY (450) square meters, more or less

Bearings : TRUE

Descriptions of corners : P.S. Cyl. Conc. Mons. 15 x 60 cm.

WHEREAS, there are no known debts or obligations due against the estate of said decedent;

WHEREAS, it is to the best interests of the parties hereto to divide, partition and adjudicate among themselves, the estate of the decedent above-described extra-judicially in the manner and form hereinafter set forth;

WHEREAS, for and in consideration of the foregoing premises, and invoking the provision of Section 1, Rule 74 of the Rules of Court, the parties hereto have agreed as they hereby do so agree to divide among themselves their undivided share in the properties covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-43,926 (a.f) and Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-25,746 (a.f) as their adjudication. This is subject to contingent liabilities to creditors, heirs or other persons who might have been deprived of lawful participation in the estate of the decedent, for a period of two years from and after the settlement and distribution thereof, in accordance with the provision of Section 4, Rule 74 of the Rules of Court.

We have read this instrument and were explained in the dialect known to us. We understand the same. We hereby confirm and affirm this document.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands this October 31, 2022 at Iligan City, Philippines.

(SGN) EMETERIA S. BOGLOSA Heir-seller OSCA ID No. 0034449

(SGN) (SGN) (SGN)

SUSAN BOGLOSA-HUCKLEBERRY HAIDE S. BOGLOSA ULYSSES S. BOGLOSA

Heir Heir Heir

U.S. Passport No. 667765132 Voter’s ID No. 1496879N Passport ID No. P6007389B (SGN) (SGN) (SGN)

MARY ANN BOGLOSA-BAUTISTA EMILY BOGLOSA-DAROY ARCHILLES BOGLOSA Heir Heir Heir

DL No. F07-15-000747 DepEd ID No. 4772052 PRC ID No. 0003375

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) CITY OF ILIGAN ) S.S.

Signed in the presence of:

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

BEFORE ME, this October 31, 2022, personally appeared the above-mentioned persons with their proof od identity as mentioned above, all known to me to be the same persons who executed the foregoing Extra-judicial Settlement of the Estate of the Deceased Fernando Besas Boglosa containing FOUR (4) pages including this page and they acknowledged to me that the same is their free act and voluntary deed. WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL at the date and place first above-written.

Doc. No.: 80 Page No.: 16

Book No.: I

Settings directions: MILG holds First ManCom for 2023

COTABATO CITY

The Management Committee (ManCom) of the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), presided over by Atty Naguib G Sinarimbo, convened here on 2425 January 2023 to lay the groundwork for the operationalization of FY 2023 and to bolster its efforts in carrying out its programs and activities this year

Deputy Minister Abunawas Maslamama, heads, and representatives from the MILG's Operations Management Services, Interior Affairs Services, Admin and Finance Services, and other key MILG offices were present at

the Committee meeting. Heads of the Bangsamoro READi and the Special Geographic Area Development Authority (SGADA) were also in attendance.

Provincial Directors from Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, and Lanao del Sur, as well as City Directors from Cotabato, Marawi, and Lamitan, were also present to provide guidance to the corresponding Municipal Local Government Operations Officers (MLGOOs) that fall under their purview.

The group looked at the organization's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as well as the

performance from the prior year. They also talked about objectives and plans for carrying out their responsibilities and continuing the initiatives that the Ministry had been undertaking.

Additionally, field offices discussed their accomplishments and best practices for 2022. Updates and briefers on other topics were also discussed during the meeting.

At the end of the two -day meeting, the participants were able to summarize and identify the overall organizational reality, which was critical for determining the approaches required to meet the targets for CY 2023. (MILG)