Marawi Aken (March Issue)

Restoring Humanity. The photo is the interior of a masjid in the Marawi most affected area that is not yet completely restored. (Photo by Widad Basher)

Uphill Battle For Equality BITIYARA: Nursaleha Dadayan

Kadusa ka.”

“Tonaa ini a babay.”

These are only some of the negative comments the #GirlDefender, Sittie Nor Dayhanna Mohammad, received on a public post that featured her views on ending child marriage.

Their cause, to end child and early marriage, is continuously receiving criticisms.

“Mahirap parin na banggain mo yung norm or yung culture,” says Sittie Nor, aware of the enormity of their task as #GirlDefenders - an alliance of people who believe in protecting girls and boys from early and forced marriages.

Many Meranaw people see early marriage as part of their culture and religion and consider it to be a Sunnah. Child and early marriage is also seen as a solution to economical and political problems, including family feuds. However, in a research done by a member of AlMujadilah Development Foundation,

(AMDF), they found out that many Bangsamoro people who underwent child and early marriage do not recommend the practice. Not limiting their battle for gender equality to seminars, the child organization of AMDF, Lindong ko Kalumbayan, comprised of a group of youths – go from house to house to inform parents and children about the what is child marriage and its negative effects by telling lived stories and sharing the results of studies.

“It disrupts education and limits their choices. It results to early pregnancy and makes them vulnerable to life of poverty, abuse, and violence.” Says PLCPD Executive Director, Rom Dongeto.

Lot Felico, Oxfam Philippines Country Director said they notice the rise of child marriage in places of great poverty, disasters, and crises.

This includes the gendered violence in temporary shelters, which makes Meranaw girls in temporary shelters also susceptible to become victims

of this violence.

To increase the legal and social protection for girls and women, the Senate Bill 1373, or Girls Not Brides Bill, is now pushing to reach the House of Representatives. To put pressure for its success, PLCPD and its partner organizations hosted a zoomlidarity rally on March 05. Dressed in purple, the color for women, some held signs in their hands. #GirlDefenders from Bubong, Saguiaran, and Marawi joined the digital rally to push the bill to the #Next Level. To become a #GirlDefender, a person only has to believe the same cause. They are also inviting others to join them in their engagements and activities.

They look forward to having more projects. “When you are grounded with your principles, hindi ka... magpapatinag,” says Sittie Nor, dedicated to continuing to fight for ending child marriage despite it being a deep-rooted part of culture.

Al Mujadillah ladies forwarding their intention as #GirlDefender

Panagontaman o mga Bae Sorhaila Latip-Yusoph

Bitiyara ko Meranaw na isa ko mga panagontaman o manga bae sa Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center sa Mindanao State University ko di kambageri ko panagontaman ko kababaloy tano a manga bilantadi a Meranaw.

Lalayon den pekaaloy sa mga kalilimod ago gii kapamagusay a so manga kalombayan imanto na miyakalobay mambo so kamemeranawi kiran.

Mandidi, so okit a katawi ron o manga bae sa MCHC, na so ka-usara ko social media ko kapamakatadema ko omaniisa ko kapiayaan o kambibityarai sa Meranaw na ininggulalan iran sangkaya a olan-olan a para ko manga bae sa intiro a dunya odi na Women’s month celebration.

Iniped iran ko panagontaman na so kapaka musawir o manga bae ko pitibarangan a sector sa ranaw ko kambilangatawi ko basa Meranaw ago so manga dadabiyatan o kalombayan. Pipoonan iran ko manga bae a manga ina sii ko manga pamilya. Miya-aloy iran a kala I bali o kambageri ko Meranaw poon ko kaito o manga moriyataw.

Tiyalundugan o manga bae a matatago sa sector a Kangudaan a Bae sa mga pitibarangan a gii pangawyaganan. Ped ko miya aloy so karegen o kapamangdaw ko basa Meranaw sa eskwelaan.

Sii ko manga ped a gawii na aya pembalebegan iran sa giyaya a Bitiyara na so manga maestra ago

health workers.

Sompat o panagontaman a MCHC na so kapembalebegi ko mga uluan lagid o Sulutan ago manga Bae a Labi (Traditional Leaders) ko isa pen a programa iran a iningaranan sa Bitiyara sa Kapaguluwan. Aya antap iyan na so kapkhatukawi ko manga panagontaman o manga oloan o maginged.

Aya di ron salakaw na so kapakabegay iran sa word of the day oman gawii para ko kapakasowa o manga taw sa Meranaw a basa. Sii iran kailay ko MCHC Facebook page. Ped roo pen na so panagontaman ko kapakambaal sa mga research project a pakaogop ko di kambageri ko Meranaw cultural heritage.

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FEATURE & OPINION

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March 2021

Bangsamoro Women - Rising up to the occassion amidst the hardships of times

By MP Zia Alonto Adiong

Strong-willed and intelligent women shaped much of who we are today. Historically, women were regarded highly in our society as they held positions that were pivotal to the development of our communities. Indeed, they are considered equal with men, as they share the same responsibility in raising families. As we celebrate the women’s month, we pay tribute to the women of our families, our communities, and our society who made an indelible mark of excellence in our collective history.

Among the most loved and influential women in our community in Lanao is Princess Tarhata “Tata” AlontoLucman, who is widely known as the first woman governor of Lanao del Sur and one of the first women executives in the Philippines. Under her leadership, she promoted peaceful co-existence between Muslims and Christians, inculcated collaborative governance, and broke cultural barriers by standing on equal footing with his colleagues in a political arena dominated by men.

When Martial Law was declared, she chose the welfare of her people which led to her unceremonious expulsion from office and subsequent exile to Saudi Arabia. Babu Tata, as we fondly called her, passed away just a couple of days ago, but already the weight of her absence has been deeply felt among our people.

Although she may seem to be irreplaceable, she undoubtedly inspired and raised a generation of women who can live up to -- if not surpass -- the legacy that is our proud inheritance from her. On a more personal note, it is my mother, former Lanao Del Sur Gov. Bedjoria Soraya Alonto Adiong, who taught me the importance of heeding women’s voices and following their lead in building a community that empowers and nurtures its people. During the Marawi Siege, I saw firsthand her dedication and love for our province. Despite the risks to her own personal safety, she chose to be within

the confines of the Provincial Capitol, making her steadying presence strongly felt in the midst of chaos. With her words of comfort and conviction, she helped us plant our feet firmly on the ground as war raged around us. She became our beacon of light, directing us to the right path as we tirelessly responded to the needs of our people.

Lanao del Sur, and the Bangsamoro is indeed blessed to have strong women like them. But we must also recognize the women who continue to struggle for their rights to be heard, to be treated as equal, and to live in an environment where they are respected and secured. Let us also pay tribute to the single mothers fulfilling both the role of a father and mother, who despite their meager resources would try make ends meet in order to raise their children.

The women displaced by conflict who continue to be resilient at the face of various challenges in their life. The widows of war who continue to believe that a just and lasting peace can still be achieved in the Bangsamoro. It is for these women that our work as public servants are all the more relevant. We must work tirelessly to craft policies that open up spaces for more women to find their place and speak in their own voice, as they find more opportunities to participate not only in personal affairs but in political arenas such as the local government of Lanao del Sur and the halls of the Bangsamoro Government. Today, as Women’s Month begins, I encourage everyone to look towards the women in our families and communities and value what they have sacrificed for us and what they can still contribute to effect changes essential in building a humane, safe and progressive society.

Darling, You Are Honorable!

Johaniah N. Yusoph us?

Walking by the seashore, I keep admiring the beauty of the sunrise while my mind sails toward the horizon unleashing all my thoughts. I pause for a while and queitly contemplate the endless wonders and blessings of The Almighty ALLAH. As a woman, born and raised with the religion Islam, I tried counting the blessings that my religion gives me. But perhaps If I do, I might even witness the sunset today that I still won’t be able to enumerate all. Indeed, blessings are vast like the sky, wide as the sea, and countless like the sand.

And as I remain stationary allowing the sun to keep me warm from the cold morning breeze, the thought of having a whole Chapter (Surah) in the Qur’an, which is the Surah An-Nisaa (Women), sends comfort in my heart. It brings me happiness and deep sense of security knowing that there is a whole chapter in the glorious Qur’an that reminds the mankind how Islam has given honor and dignity to women. Indeed, we just need to give honor to this “honor” that ALLAH has given us. But how do we really honor the respect and dignity that Islam has given

And my thoughts flow like I cannot get hold of them but I am certain that no matter what status that a woman has, Islam puts her in a wonderful situation and with a role to execute. I remember the popular hadith that reminds all children that “Paradise is under the feet of the mothers,” which I think is a beautiful way to remind every single child to treat his/her mother with utmost love and care that he/she may attain Paradise, by the Mercy of ALLAH s.w.t.

Indeed a woman, whatever her status is, Islam has raised her dignity and honor by acknowledging her rights hundreds and hundreds of years ago long before “women empowerment” advocacies were created.

Either you are a mother struggling to find time for herself while giving out selfless and unconditional love to her family; or a single lady fighting the challenges and tests that come her way, allow me to leave you with these thoughts that I wish to be reminded first also...

Nurture your heart with the beautiful reminders of Islam. Keep sending out positivity into this world with calmness just like ships into the sea that sail even when it gets windy. In this world, full of tests and trials, may you always find comfort in your prayers and make sujood (prostration) your safest harbor when the sailing becomes rough. Remember that a Muslim woman stands firm but with grace and humility, guided with wonderful restrictions of Islam. So, keep sailing, darling.

You are honored!

Tarhata Alonto Lucman: The empowered Bangsamoro woman

Pros and Cons of a Working Mother Alwidad Basher

These days it is not typical to see mothers who are full time stayat-home moms. Most of our women today, if not all, are employed or engaged in business.

We can’t deny the significant contribution of these empowered women in peace, development, and economy. Despite of proofs how women of today dominate in various fields, some still believe that mothers should focus at home, concentrate on house chores, and take good care of their children.

But we cannot deny the fact that women of today are engaged in community and various fields of studies. It is also evident here in Lanao del Sur as we can see women who are doctors, educators, lawyers, media practitioners, engineers, and so on.

Being a working mom myself, I wish to reflect too on the advantages and disadvantages of being a working mother that I would love to share as we give awareness about the wonders of women every March of the year.

I think the very first on my list of pros is the chance and challenge given to me to be of good role model

while sending out the message that a woman has her own freedom to choose the career that she wants.

It could mean also that in making a living, gender is not a requirement.

Second, it is also a great chance to teach her children at early age the sense of responsibility and independence by guiding them and making them contribute and do house chores. Lastly, the nature of busy daily routine of a working mother make her less prone to depression because her attention is diverted to many things including having circle of friends from her workplace which sometimes she can spend quality with both colleagues together with family.

On the other hand, if working mother has positive impacts to one’s life and her family here are some of the downsides or the cons.

Obviously, most of working mothers out there are prone to be tired and stressed due to multiple roles they handle everyday. With this, they can’t avoid having health issues that recommend medical check up or rest. Another one is the inevitable missed chances of having to attend important events of her children

or other family members. This can be attributed to the fact that she has a job to fulfill in daytime. Also, conflict with the schedule is always a hindrance in attending an event or activity. And even if she finds time, she would rather spend quality time with her family.

Indeed, the situation and time demand for women to be active in various activities outside home whether it is for living, passion or other personal goals.

However, let us be reminded about the importance of family and our real purpose of being woman within the bounds of our religion Islam and that is to make our family as our primary priority in life and everything falls secondary. You can do whatever you want but never take your family for granted because by simply being a good wife and a mother to your children speak a lot of you being real empowered woman without even saying it.

March 2021

Women Empowerment!

Suharto Ali

Office of MP Atty. Maisara C. Dandamun-Latiph joins the entire nation in celebrating National Women’s Month the as it launched a Kick-Off celebration on March 8 at the IPDM, MSU-Marawi City. The event was participated by different sectors, women organizations, youths, orphans, and children, and IDPs that are coming from the City of Marawi and Lanao del Sur. The program highlights the importance and extraordinary roles of ordinary Fatimas in the society as trailblazers and harbingers of change. In an interview with Mr. Jamael M. Sarip, the Project Manager of the office of MP Maisara Damdamun-Latiph, he said that the purpose of the kickoff program was to formally open the month-long activities that they have prepared. This monthlong celebration is anchored with the theme “We Make Change Work for Bangsamoro Women” Fatima Laban sa Pandemiya: kaya! The highlight of the kick-off program was the announcement of the biggest event in this year’s celebration which is the “Search of Women Advocates 2021” and that’s why they are encouraging

and inviting all the offices and organizations in Lanao del Sur to participate and send nominations in the said competition. For nominations, they are inviting everyone to visit facebook page of BTA Member Maisara C. Dandamun-Latiph for the guidelines and mechanics.

“In addition, the search aims to recognize the women advocates in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City, distinguish the great contributions of women advocates for their advocacy initiatives, inspire others specially the young generation for the meaningful contributions of the women, and recognize the Bangsamoro women as part of policy-making in peace and communitybuilding for the betterment of the Bangsamoro people.”, Mr. Jamael M. Sarip said. The goal of the Office of MP Maisara is to recognize the Bangsomoro women advocates and distinguish their great contributions in the communities, inspire other women especially the women in this generation and active citizens for the meaningful contributions of each sectors and to be part in uplifting the lives of others, and recognize Bangsamoro women as part of policy-making in peace and community-building for the betterment of the Bangsamoro region and in preparing for a better community for our future moriatao.

This celebration is also a venue to discuss and address the issues that women continue to face so empowerment can be fully achieved. The campaign is also a call for concrete, sustainable, and inclusive actions towards gender equality.

Editor’s Note

Marawi Aken March Issue is a dedication to all women who are committed to defend each other and become the most supportive sector of our society. As a celebration for Women’s month, we cannot help but talk about women who are empowered Bangsamoro. In this issue, we also have made Philippine Statistics Authority as our main inspiration in empowering women in their plight of giving name and dignity to their children. Again, this issue is in itself an empowerment for us. I was lost, voiceless, forsaken by all but not her.

Further, we dedicate this issue to Zahria, commonly known as Linky--an angel to all of us who became part of her life. She is an angel who never speaks of ill words against anyone. When you are with her, you feel comfort, ease and kindness radiating from her own self and reverberating like a song. I was once a victim of early marriage and I was the first in my clan to survive it by divorcing my husband. Zahria was never judgmental. She never thought of me as deviant, lost or even a victim. She sees me as equal who lost some opportunities but is a rare gem. The good thing in you will always be radiating and she would always find meaning to every struggle you have.

To me, Linky was not just a friend, she is a comforter. She is one in a million. We were together from those days of innocence in our elementary years. She was my keeper of all girly secrets I had in my high school years. She also became my psychosocial expert when all turned gray on me. She put back the colors in me by believing that I can do better and far better. She never failed to inspire others like me. She, to me, is not just a friend but a sister. I finally had the opportunity to share the last few moments of her stay on earth. I am blessed to have known a Linky in my life.

She may be missed but her legacy will always be there forever.

Salute!

NEWS & OPINION

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Meranao Women OFWs: Our Story Away from Home Sahria T. Lawi-Macabalang

Where did your dream take you? All of us have dream jobs.

Others are lucky to have them within reach, while others have to travel as far as Saudi Arabia to get them.

Growing up, I never dreamed of working abroad. The thought of leaving my parents and siblings behind and living far away from them was already unbearable.

When my aunt, who took care of me since birth, left to work in Saudi Arabia sometime in 1988, I was devastated. It was the most painful feeling I experienced as a kid. Every send-off felt like a punishment. I could not stop crying. I would start counting the days from the time of her departure until I get distracted.

Every letter and voice recording she would send us once in a while felt like having a piece of her at home. The gifts she would bring home to us during her vacation every two years, no matter how big or small were cherished.

Her coming home for vacation would give me temporary relief and comfort. Then, whenever she had to go back abroad, the pain of separation would strike again. Such is the usual scenario in families with OFW family member. That is definitely one of the reasons why I did not wish to be an OFW. Fast forward to adulthood, I did not expect that the road I never planned taking would present itself in front of me which changed the plan.

Indeed, becoming an adult has its repercussions. We become responsible for ourselves and our future. We feel the need to give back to our parents or at least, to make them feel that their sacrifices paid off and assure them that they have raised us well. As a responsible adult, we just could not watch the time pass us by without us doing anything, right? As a result, because of lack of employment opportunity, not to mention the usual palakasan system we have, combined with other personal reasons, I found myself taking the plunge and grabbed the opportunity to live and work abroad. There is truth to what I used to hear from older folks that we have to go where the fishes are to catch one. Indeed, we can plan, but the best planner is Allah.

Working in a whole new world is challenging. It is not at all sugar sweet as others would picture it. Discrimination is rampant.

We often end up swallowing our pride. Adjusting to a new culture takes some time. The language barrier drives us nuts.

Sometimes, communicating in straight English does not help.

It has to be telegraphic English to be able to communicate effectively. Worst of all is nostalgia. Often times, we feel alone and homesickness could overwhelm us, and we would wish we have our family around.

Speaking from experience, for young OFW families with working-mothers and new born,

there is always a dilemma between working and staying home to personally take care of the baby. More often than not, they always end up choosing to work, after all, it is the reason why they braved the way to a foreign land. As for the baby, babysitters and day-care centers are ready to help, for a fee. It is during this time that we usually self-pity and think of home. We would dream of inged where we could be surrounded by our parents, siblings, relatives, and even our neighbors who are ready to lend a hand. Overseas, we are alone and only have ourselves to depend on.

Homesickness eases when we see fellow Meranaos around. We are lucky to have a few whom we can really count on. They are friends who have turned family. Out of curiosity, I asked some of my female friends about the reasons why they worked abroad, particularly in Saudi Arabia, and it is not at all surprising that their responses are almost in harmony with mine and revolve around better opportunities, promising salary and benefits, better standard of living, being able to earn and save a little if not more, be able give back to our parents, chance to alleviate the economic status of the family back home, accessibility of performing Umrah/Hajj anytime, and the opportunity to sponsor a family member or send loved ones to perform Umrah and Hajj. The last two on the list are usually the main reason why Meranaos, and perhaps the Muslim Bangsamoro people, choose Saudi Arabia as the work destination. For obvious reason, aside from economic, it is religious. It is like shooting two birds with one stone.

Through the years, people come and go. That is the nature of working abroad. We do not stay here forever. As a personal observation, the number of Meranao women working abroad has increased through the years.

In almost all hospitals or clinics that I have been to or that I know of, there is always at least one Meranao employee such as a nurse, nurse aide, doctor, med tech, rad tech, pharmacist, or secretary. In some Philippine International schools, there are Meranao teachers. Even in salon and spa, I have a relative working there as hairstylist and beautician. In some households, there are Meranao domestic staff. There are also those who are privileged to have the whole family around. Meranao women nowadays are game changers.

The negative perceptions on Meranao women working abroad, most especially the unmarried ones, or the married ones unaccompanied by their spouses, have no place in the present time. The modern Meranao women are informed, competitive, brave, and smart enough to know their priorities. They can take care of themselves. They are principled

and able to guard their modesty, their maratabat, while living in a foreign land. If there are stories that say otherwise, those are isolated cases and do not in any way represent majority of the Meranao women working abroad.

Gone are the days when Bangsamoro Women such as the Meranaos are restricted within the four corners of their rooms.

At this modern era, we, women are more than capable of doing anything under the heat of the sun, to exaggerate. We are free to do what we want, what is good for ourselves, for our family, loved ones, and our community keeping in mind our boundaries.

In celebration of the International Women’s Month, I further asked some of my female friends about their opinion on women empowerment and asked them if they consider themselves empowered. Without thinking twice, they responded affirmatively. All of them in their humble opinion are empowered for reasons that, first, they can stand on their own and make decisions for themselves.

Second, they are strong enough to face the trials they encounter.

Third, they have their voice to express and fight for their rights and that of their families’.

Fourth, they understand their worth and know their purpose in life. Fifth, they have faith in God and practice their belief. Sixth, they are not afraid to show their weaknesses and imperfections; and the list goes on.

The Meranao Women OFWs deserve the same respect and honour afforded to any other women because they are equally valuable. They too are modern-day heroines. Despite the difficulties they experience, they remain steadfast and take every challenge as motivation to carry on each day. They are not discouraged despite the hardship of life abroad because their goals and their love for their family overpower their fear and sadness.

We may not have big names; we may not have accumulated enough riches; or we may be away from our homeland and almost forgotten, it does not make us less empowered. As OFW, we have the power to improve ourselves and our families and be able to make a difference in this world. In our own way, we are contributing to our nation by becoming productive citizens.

I dedicate this to all the Meranao/ Bangsamoro Women OFWs. This is our story away from home.

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Miara Fatimah M. Mapandi

March 2021

Zahria “Linky” Pandao Muti-Mapandi was a mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, and most of all, a strong fighter who willed to act on the things she believed is right. Born on October 15, 1976 she was the eldest child and only daughter of Moca Lomangco Muti and Sahara Marmay Pandao-Muti. She was raised in a household of extended families, looking up to so many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She spent her primary years until high school in Dansalan College Foundaion Incorporated. When she was 19 years old, she was then married to Morsalin A. Mapandi and they had three children, two girls and a boy.

Her life like any person had many trials but she was able to make the most of what she had and made things work. She was able to graduate in Mindanao State University earning her degree Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Cum Laude while she and her husband are raising their eldest daughter. Then she started her journey in working with the community when she joined Al-Mujadilah Development Foundation. There, she was able to discover and execute her talent: “conceptualization and letting her imagination run through its course” but with a cause and good intentions. From her beginnings as a volunteer documentor, she was able to see what it means to help the people who are in need. As she delved into the discourse of gender and women’s rights, her aspiration in the world is to create a legacy for the vulnerable women and children to be safe and thriving. Her experiences helped her ascend from helping the organization document their activities and mobilization to her niche of creating concepts and ideas that would generate a projects that are beneficial for marginalized groups.

As she accepted the role of Executive Director of AMDF, she also internalized the values of a good leader and a mentor that facilitates the growth of the team. She has spent most of her life dedicated to her passion in community work that she would sleep with a pen and paper under her pillow to jot down notes in case a brilliant idea pops out of her mind. She was a wonderful woman with a wandering mind who sees the light among the dark surroundings, an optimist at heart. Her love to read books and write journal helped her cope with the challenges in life so she can see the wonders of the world through words and literature instead of having clouded thoughts. Sometimes, I would wonder if she would have preferred to be librarian if the circumstances were different because she loves to collect books and dreams of creating a library if there was an opportunity. She taught us so many life lessons not only to us, her children but to every person she met. She was the epitome of a powerful person not because of a symbolic status but her influence in her respected field and expertise that is contrast to her modest shell. Everyone knew her as Linky who had the capacity to link lives, and we are proud of what she was able to do in her lifetime as we also aspire to do good in this world.

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Zahria: Strong yet Kindhearted March 2021

“in all the years that i’ve known linx, i’ve seen nothing but selflessness, commitment & passion in all that she does. i admire her optimism, her calm & constructive approach in dealing with situations. also, her humility is remarkable. her strength & courage to see through the most challenging & difficult times are exceptional. i will miss her smile, her laugh, our long talks even in the wee hours of the night. she may no longer be with us but she’ll always be in our hearts. may Allah (SWT) grant her jannatul firdaus. ameen.” -Bai Abbas “Linky’s courage in facing the complex challenges to someone with the Big C has been remarkable and truly inspiring to most of her family members, colleagues and friends like me. Even when sick, she continued to live meaningfully by serving others as she carried on with her active involvement in the projects and programs of our AMDF. I miss her ever gentle and thoughtful ways of relating with me. She will remain in my heart forever during my lifetime. May she be rewarded in the afterlife for all her good deeds.” -Dayang Batuampar Ate Linky has a great influence to me. I’ve learned how to fight and fight for others. She served as an instrument for me to discover my potentials and use them for the greater good. She will always have a place in my heart. -Bebe Omar

She believed in me, when no one did..

-Bdal Mohamad I will always be grateful kay Ate Linky. lagi siyang may pabaon na words of wisdom. She always encouraged me na kaya kong gawin ang mga bagay na sa tingin ko ay di ko kayang gawin. siya ang unang nag tiwala at nagbigay sa akin ng opportunities to grow and be successful sa life. I will never forget you Ate Linky. Pakasorgaan ka o Allah. Maraming Maraming Salamat sa lahat. malaking bahagi ka ng aming buhay. See you in Heaven In Sha Allah. - - Hadee Ali “You just have to believe in yourself, Yang” this was/is her word of encouragement because she knew that silently, I doubted my capabilities. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to have had my 2015 Hajj journey with her and her husband, Osie. During our Hajj, I was the only Tausug in their Maranao team but never did I feel unwelcome. Our sisterhood was strengthen since then and she became my confidante and sister from another mother. My Khadijah Linky, your unselfish love and support will forever lives in me until the day that we will meet again. I love you! –Dayang Bahidjan I remember linky pag anniv ng kahit anu group sa batch natin,di yan naka2limut mg-greet. Everybody in our batch is also a witness how thoughtful she is. – Faridah Dilna Alango

I remember being a 24 year old, visiting Ranao for the first time, awed by the bright light that is ate Linky. This young woman, proud Muslim, feminist, leading a small organization in the beautiful Marawi.

I immediately saw why her feminist mothers (unlike others) let her lead with complete trust at a young age; no wonder too, how the tribe of young women had followed her lead. Everything she did was always with a thorough discernment. Each action had a strong root, done with deep purposeful actions and laser sharp foresight. Seeing the intention that they carry with the work that they do, i easily became a follower and fan of this organization by the Lake Lanao, Al-mujadillah Development Foundation. As a person, I owe much to her and her tribe of women (with supportive men). Though lived some of my life the South, I was a typical person ‘from Manila’ when I met her, ignorant of our Muslim roots and culture; and of how one can find its coherence with feminism.

Ate Linky educated me out of my ignorance, through powerful and long hours story-telling: of the meanings and beauty of what the Q’uran is truly saying - if only we opened our hearts and looked more closely. Of course these came with good Maranaw food, with elaborate stories of the value chain and women’s contributions in the Sakurab and Palapa.

Ate Linky educated me out of our typical arrogance of an outsider going to the community with a set plan, without genuinely asking them what matters to them. I cringe at how we did our work when I remember that time. Though I never understood why she even bothered, why ate Linky toiled to make me understand, I am forever, deeply grateful to her.

Shukran, ate Linky, Thank you for your light. See you on the otherside.

Love, Clem Novales

“She loved giving notes. “Be good, be true and be you” was the first I received from her. It was also among of “first digestible teachings” she taught me as a high school student. That’s Ate Linky.

She has unique and effective ways to connect with us individually.

She really knew how to awaken our interests and to do good for others without losing our identity. She always inspired us that we are capable to become a catalyst for change. Her last days remained lessons for many of us. She showed us silent battles should not stop our commitment serving our community and having a meaningful life. She will always be my forever inspiration. May the Allah Almighty forgive and grant her Jannahtol Firdaus. Allahumma ameen.” -Hani Toronggay “Inairan “ as we fondly call each other. The person i can live with eating sweets everyday. She influenced me a lot to be calm and patience. My confidante. If i have to write all her good deeds, a thousand pages is not enough. She always reminded me to be a good Muslimah and said that everything we do is for Our Almighty Allah and that Perseverance and Sabr are elements to be one..My mind still talks to her. My heart still looks for her.My soul knows you are at peace. I am thankful for having had you, but I still miss you so much.. Pakasorgaan ka O Allah, siiko langon a Ompiya ago Ugop siiko Kapakausor ago di Kapagintaw o mga bae a minisabap ruka ago mininggolalan sabap ko ilmo a inibugay ka kiran.. _Jaslin Masbud To my boss ate linky, you are a Lightning guide to every women; an Inspiration that pushes me to strive harder; you remind me Not to limit myself from learning new things; you teach me Know my strenghts and challenge my limits You will always be missed and remembered.-Nor Mangondaya I terribly miss Linky for her quiet brilliance and thoughtful acts. She was my compass in matters of faith and pragmatic development work. She was generous enough to share with me stories of her journey to marriage and family life. We bonded throughout long plane, bus and car rides as we travelled to different countries to be part of a growing community of practice that looked at household gender dynamics that impact on women’s economic leadership. We spent a lot of time learning and discussing, in the process deepening our understanding of how it is to live a life of value and meaning. I learned so much from Linky. -Jing Pura Linky is one of the kindest person I know. She has this aura of kindness kaya you instantly feel comfortable around her. Even if she disagrees with you, you’ll never hear a harsh word from her. Her faith in Allah is very strong. Through out her sickness, she was never bitter or said it was unfair. She’s born everything with grace. That’s how I want to remember her, full of grace and kindness. Indeed, she makes the world better when she’s around. Pakasorgaan o Allah c Linky ka daden a karataan iyan.– Atty. Rayhana Madum

Linky behaves towards other people in an honest, fair and in a very nice way. She is truly genuine, morally good and impossible to criticize. Alhamdullilah that I have known her in this lifetime.- Alia Balindong Death is not the end of one’s existence in this world. When one passes to the next journey, there is no moving on. Instead we move WITH her. HOw? What she truly valued when she was with us should never be forgotten. Justice for the survivors of Marawi and other atrocities against the Bangsamoro People. Compassion for Others who are in difficult circumstances. To be sabr for those who are hurt and confused. To show love through one’s generosity and kindness without the Other asking for it. And to never forget Our Right to Self Determination! That is Linky. She lives in all of us. May Allah Bless you with His Love and Mercy and make your grave a delightful space and time while you await for your final destination in Jannatul 2, sweet Linky -Shallom Allian “Knowing her for almost 17 years, Ate Linx had been among those who had greatly influenced me and molded me into becoming what I am now, what I believe in and what I aspire for. She had been my rock, my greatest supporter. I am forever grateful to her for always believing in me and for always giving me life lessons that helped me surpass whatever trials and challenges that came my way. I love you Ate Linx and may ALLAH swt grant you jannatul firdaus. -Nayo Abduljaleel

6

FEATURE & OPINION

So Toladan o Meranaw a Ina: Di ta makanggowani ka makapagimanto ta Inisorat i Prof. Rocaira Racman-Gumal

Lagid aken o pekhailay so Ina aken a mimbawata raken ko kiyasimaa ko, kiyagedama ko ago kiyanega ko ko kiyambabawata iyan.

Sekaniyan so toladan o manga Ina a aya katharo o khikabasa on na inisolek iran sa pakobolan a kiyawiyaga iran ko manga moriyataw iran. Seka niyan so toladan o manga ina a piyangoyag iran so manga wata iran a melagid o aden odi na da a mimbababid iran ko mapait malipedes ko kapemomoriyataw.

Ogaid na benar ko mindaromasay siran na da iran pharowa ko ginawa iran o ba iran pakanega sa manga solang a tig odi na aya pen o ba iran pamakatanai sa lima so manga wata iran. Siran so manga Ina a aya kinindolonaan iran ko manga ikaritan iran na miyokit sa kapangangapin, kapaginoino, ago kapangangampedian. Siran so manga Ina a minsan pen marikhet so kawiyagan na bapiya da pen katarotopi na inisekel iran sa ginawa iran a kinitomanen iran ko manga kabenar o manga wata iran ago kininggolalanen iran ko atastanggongan iran ko kababaloyran a manga Ina. Siran so manga Ina a tiyandingan iran sa mapiya a pamamakinegan so manga tothol a mapiya ago manga awid a akal o manga moriyataw iran.

Aya mala a pakaiza imanto na o makasaybarat sa pamomolan na antonaa mangaday i miyapagonga o manga Ina gowani? Antonaa i onga o minisalimbago a manga Ina sa masa imanto? Aya kabasa o sabago ko sabaad na “Di ta makanggowani ka makapagimanto ta.” Sii kon ko miyaona a masa na so manga Bai ko walay na kenaba di mangawiyagan, da a ped a katembangan sa liyo na lalayon siran ko manga torogan iran. Giyoto i sabap a kiyabegan iran sa mala a oras so kambiat sa moriyataw.

Aya tano peman kilangen so manga Ina sa masa imanto. Antonaa i kibibida iran ko miyangaoona a alongan? Ayaden a kapalalagaday o masa imanto na sabap ko kiyapakaiseg o masa na miyakaozor mambo so kapaginetaw. Miyakadakel so pithibarangan a galebek, katembangan ago mikhalilid so kapmamasaan sa manga gorimet a ipephakalebod o gii kapaginetaw o manga manosiya na lagid o ba minipatoray o manga Bai ko ginawa iran so kabalaa iran ko manga darodopa iran ko kapangawiyagan. Makasabap saya na miyakaninit mambo so oras a gii ran di kapakambabaratemowa ago so manga ikaritan iran na miyakadelag so kambibitiyarai ago kapemomosawira.

Aya peman a pakaiza na ino mangaday, ba diden khilengit ko manga galebek so kambiata sa mapiya ko manga moriyataw? Ino mangaday o ibagak aken rekano anan a manga pakaiza na sekano den i begay ron sa madalem ago malambet a pamimikiran na go sekano den i sembag on?

w

March 2021

ANTAWAA SIRAN A MGA BAE? Inisorat i Mohammad Nadhif R. Hadji Nabel

Melagid sa kipantag so datu nago so mga bae sii ko di kapaginged. Opama ka sii ko kambobolawasan, na siran a datu ago mga bae na siran i mababaloy a bekhokhong o lawas.

Maana a maregen den a kaphakatindeg odi na kaphakaosor o kaphaginged opama ka maada so isa bo ko bae antaa ka so datu.

So mga bae na makikilala siran ko kababaloy iran a tanda o paratiyaya, bager, ranon, nago rangiro. Pesambi so mababaloy a sangan o mga bae sa giyangkae a masa sii ko di ron di kanggonae o madakel a tao. Madakel kiran den so tomiyontot ko sowa a kiyasabapan sa kiyambabaloy iran a mga professional sii ko pitibarangan a kalamalama o katao datar o technology, education, sports, politics, religious leaders ago so salakaw san.

Giyangkae a kiyaosor a duniya na maka aawid sa bago a arap nago bager ko mga bae. Opama ka ba tanoden penggowani na so mga bae na makasasana siran ko mga lokes iran odi na sii ko darodopa iran. Ogaid na o pagimanto tano, o di phakasopak ko dadabiatan o meranaw, na aya mindakel na so mga babager ko mga bae nggolalan ko sowa nago kaphakagaga iran mawiyag a di siran somasana ko mga lokes nago darodopa iran.

Opama ka sii pagilaya ko dii kapagolowan sa giyangake a inged a Pilimpinas, na maptharo den a so mga bae sii rektano na komeketed opama ka di niyan marerepeng so kadakel o datu a magoolowan. Giyangkae i mala a sabap ino kinanglan so kibgan o omani pitanggisaan sii rektano ko pada-adat, arga nago panginema ko mga bae sa datar den o kipendawagen tano ron ko mga datu.

Opama ka sii peman pagilaya ko soled o panoroganan tano na marayag den a kakhailaya ko kala i bale o mga bae. Siran i onayan a pephagipat ko mga moriatao iran nago so mitotolod so edad iyan sii ko soled o panoroganan iran. Ipoon den ko kapsiyapa niyan ko mga panoroganan tano na rakes a kaplompiyowi niyanon ko tenday a kasisii niyanon na taman den ko kababaloy niyan a rawaten ko mapiya a galebek sii ko di niyang nggalebeken, na pkhagaga oto lagon o sakatao a bae.

So pkhagaga o mga bae na di maphagasar a di mipkharangan ko kababaloy iran a mga bae. Ped pen aya a sabap sa kapapatoti kiran ko kipephangandagen iran ko mga kapasang iran.

So mababaloy a sangan ko kawiyagoyag o pitanggisaan nago sii ko kaphaginged na diden matimbang a borawan datumanong sa datar iyanden sa kala i bali so mga datu. Giyangkae i anday sabap na thaongen tano piyapiya so pitanggisaan ko mga kangodaan, aya mala na so mga bae, sabap sa so mapiya a taginepen o kangodaan na ayaniyanden sosonen ko kappephakala iyan opama ka madaorogon nago ogopanon tomaong. Pakaonoten tano den ko samber o ‘ndo angkaya a pakhaisa sabap sa so khagaga o bae na diden maphangantonaa, datar den mambo o bae a di maphangantawaa.

Health Corner for Empowered Women Panaguntaman ko Mapiya a Kambobolawasan Inisorat i Prof. Sittie Adaweyah L. Macabago

Kasiyap sa lawas i ped ko mga sogoan o agama Islam. Mampen oto na kinanglan a masiyap tano so ginawa tano na go tanobo masiyap so pamiliya tano. Isa a phagilayn ko ginawa tano na so lalayon maiipat so lawas an phakalidas ko pitibarangan a paniyakit. Liyo san pen na inisugo pen o agama tano a miyaaloy ko Qur-an ago hadith lagid o pitharo o Rasulullah (s.a.w.) “Da a balas a liyo ko paratiyaya ko Allah so mapiya kambobolawasan” So seketano ron a mga bae na aden mambo a hadith a miyaaloy o Rasulullah (s.a.w..) a “so duniya ago so tago iyan na kapenggonaan ago iportanti ugaid na so lebi ron a mapened na su mapiya a bae.” Aya ped ko mga usayan sa hadith anan na so bae a sisiyapen ean a ginawa niyan ko mapiya kambobolawasan. Sabap san na kataya so lima timan a mga okit-okit ko mapiya kambobolawasan para ko mga bae.

1. Daily Routine for Cleanliness. So oman gawii a kapelimpiyo sa lawas. Liyo pen, maphakapiya niyan so gedam ta na phakalidas tano ko mga iito a sakit sa kubal lagid o Gatel (Allergy) ago kaphakaaden sa di mapiya a baw sa lawas (body odor). Di tano phakalipatan a so kaplumpiyo n aped ko soan ko agama. Myaaloy sa hadith a pitharo o Rasulullah (s.a.w.) a “So kaplimpiyo sa lawas na sabagi o paratiyaya.” (sahih Muslim) 2. Self-Breast Exam. Seletano a mga bae na kinanglan na maiipat tano lalayon so betad o mga rareb tano an tano phakainengka o aden a sakit a risk tano ron. Kataya so bitikan a pesowaan ko Self-Breast Exam.

Kinanglan na so kapenggulawla-aon na sii ko masa a aya reka kiyada o basa/rugo. Na mas mapiya pen ko aya nga den kiyapakapasad phaygo.

Pagalong ka sii ko da nga pen kaliyo sa katiliyas a aden a pagalonganon. Ilayangka na sima sime angka so rareb ka ko pagalongan oba aden a mga khailay ngawn a miyabago ko rareb ka o myaalin so kala o isa ko sabalon.

Talondogen kawn so kibayawn ko mbala a limangka na sima-sima angka peman a rareb ka labaw so nipple o aden a meliyo ron. O aden, na ilayangka o ig, dana odi na rugo a peliyo-on. d. Mapasad na iga ka peman na porooneka a kawanan a lima nga na tago angka sa tengo oka. Osarangka so diyowang a limangka an ka mapangaper so kawanan a rareb ka . lagid iyan mambo amay ko sii sa diyowang a rareb ka. Sii ko kaphangaper angkawn na dekenen ka sa mayto mayto so dowa a kemer ka ko rareb ka na libeten kawn s ataman sa maaper k ataman ko look o rareb. Gedam angka oba aden a khaaper kawn a matgas a maskit sa di masakit. O aden na patot a sumong kasa doctor a Gynecologist ka an ka niyan maexamine piypiya.

Gyoto e okit-okit a ipekhidiya ko Self-Breast Exam a ped ko patot a masisiyap lalayon o mga bae ko mapiya a kambobolawasan. Gyaya a Self-breast exam na kenaba sii bo ko mga bae ka

patot a apiya so mga datu na masowa eran aya.

3. Armpits, Groin and Reproductive Care. Lalayon tano pelimpiyon so mga irek ago saang tano ka sii lalayon pekhaaden so mga gatel ka so mga darpa a maliget ago dimapiya a kapephaka ginawa o anggawta na aya kalilid apekadenan a mga bacteria odi na fungi. Pananggilaan tano oba tano pakasolot sa maliget a panty ago saroar a mapakay a kasabapan sa kagatel o saang taman ko pyamalongan kagiya di phakaokit piypiya so rugo roo. Mapiya pen so kapadakela ko kainom sa ig ka aya ped a pakalimpiyo ko soled a lawas tano lagid o pliyowan a titi.

4. Stress Free. Di tano paka-aawida akala a ginawa tano (stress) ka so awida akal na ped a pekasabapan a mga pitibarangan a paniyakit. Amay ka lalayon maka aawida akal o taw na pekabinasa so mga cells ago tissues sa lawas a ay aped a maawid ko lawas tano. Na anda den e kapakadakel a mabinasa ron na mapakay mbaloy a sakit lagid o cancer. Sabap san na di tano iphagawida akal so di tano mipapaar.

5. Moderation on Foods. So mathangka a kakan na aya mapiya na aya pen inisogo o agama. Miyaaloy kohadith o Rasulullah (s.a.w.) “So mbatawaan o Adam na kinangelan a tagoan iyan so lapad iyan sa di pakalawan ko tiyan iyan. Kiyasokodan so mayto a khawyagon. Aya patot na so sabagi ko telo bagi o tiyan na pangenengken, na su ikadowa ko (telo bagi) na para koi g, na so ikatelo na endo (air).” (At-Tirmizi) Apiya sa medisina na giyanan e isusugo o mga doctor/pamomolong. Ka an phakaginawa so tiyan na mapiya a kagalinga ko pangenengken a myatago ko tiyan. So pun so kakan na pitibarangan a pangenengken na di tanto matimos ka opon pirmi matimos a peken na khasabapan sa kaphakala o rugo (hypertention). Na di peman lalayon so mamis ka mapakay a kasabap sa diabetes. Na di peman masibo ka mapakay a makakowa so taw sa Hypercholesterolemia (malapot a masibo a rugo) a mapakay a mitaos sa sakit a Stroke. Giyoto I sabap sa so kakan sa mathangka na aya patot an lalayon mapiya so betad a soled a lawas tano.

Giyanan a mga myaaloy a lima a makempet a mosawir para ko mga bae na pira baden anan ko madakel a mga okit-okit ko mapya kambobolawasan. So mga bae I kalilid a phagipat ko mapiya a kambobolawasan o pamiliya. Na siyapen tano daan piypiya so lawas tano na go tan obo masiyap so kambobolawasan o pamiliya tano nago isampay tano ko salakaw di salakaw giyaya a makempet na masagogod a osayan ko mapiya a kambobolawasan o mga bae.

Literary

March 2021

Sembay ako ongangen Inisorat IKhadaffy Daragangan Cagul Mangondato Me rinaw a imbaling a Ranao rinaw inggaring na di miphâ ngiring iring ko lagaday khô koliling ka palaya lumilinding ko walaya ini rending …

Pizipat angko malin na piyateng anko zalin o pindingan dinga daging so turogan a lilinding na endalendeg pindaging a indagending sa rending ko i-ilaya inandang …

Onga onga onga-an na ola ola ola-an so ongangen pangilamen na maregen gara anen ka kenaba angen angen a ngena ngena kala-an ka khâragon korang kaon …

Onga onga onga-an na ola ola ola-an so onga-angen aenamen na amongen nggaga-anan? ka aden maka ngen angen a nenga nenga nggaga-an ko karegen karang komen …

Onga onga ongangen na maregen pagungowan ka regen a pangowaan na maregen panabowan ka menang a lalabowan a linang mambo botawan a kinanglan thâbowan …

Oma oma inga(n)gan na mbutawanan ka lengan na mbatowaan kalalagan a ikhôwa kala lagan na di khârango ramowan a‘baka rangko rangkoman ka rangka kaden a arang …

Ona ona ona-an na ano ano anonen na tenday tendan atoden na tonggo-on a tendo-on a khâtendo taden tadem so tadman a thêndgan …

Aden a along aken a miprarakhes aken.

Apay o andako somong na ikog aken skaniyan.

Opama ka masalak a barakenden pokasa Na thomoden so kaodas a da a kambabalingan.

Gowani ko miyawna a mosim Na taralo sa phagipat ko pephagipaten iyan, A sagit iyanden so kawan o ba baden mabaroba Ka gyanan so ongangen a piyakiipat o kadenan.

Na ino bo sa masa imanto?

Initapelek so phephagipaten ka salakaw a liyapakan Aya pisela-sela na so mawatan ko ginawa Na piyakalipatan iran so along along I ladan.

Inao, masakit pagariya, tanto ko masakit!

Makaphephadaw ta sa rata a ginawa.

Ko kinitapeleken iran ko along o ginawa iran Na phisambi ko along a malbod bo komelas.

Hay pagariko pagnaw ka!

Di ngka tanto tharalon so kabibimban ka!

Kasowingka so along a piyakipaganad reka!

A along o lokes ka na goso kadandan o tao!

Tanda man anan a inibetad gowani Ko mosala kandoyoga a tanan bantog a ranaw A diden maiiman a kapkhatobakaon O phimbago mangoda a miyangisasaripiag.

Daden a lalaw a kiyasibasibay iran A mujahid o tohan a miren ko phamaroba Ka apay maito-maito na maloden pkhasawaan So thito a phaminasa a nanged a phamaroba!

Pagariko pagnaw ka ko thito a khakhokhoman!

Ka antanoden mabuwat so thito a along along, A giyanan so basa tano a basa o maongangen A di kinanglan sa ipat ka aya reka phagipat!

Mosmirah Abduljalil

“it must be sad to not see color” they say, but all it is is empty

everything is a sullen shade of gray and perhaps this too is a gray kind of envy.

monotony is a mantra that I do not need color

as long as there are no blues all the tones, all the hues, are only but a bother.

so why then does my chest ache when I see the sun my little brother draws on the corner of the paper? why then does it hurt to see mom’s eyes soften still when dad gifts her

Zian Bangkero

Babae, ako...

Sa karupukan, tumatatag, Sa pangangamba, tumatapang, Sa pagsasakripisyo, nagiging ganap; Sa agapay ko’y nakasalalay Buhay ng iba pa; kahit sa aki’y walang umaalalay.

Mabubuhay ako, Bilang ako, Bilang babae; Sa gitna ng lahat ng kabalintunaan Babae ako May lugar sa mundo.

Bituwanen

“PAKAILAT O RAGA KO MANGUDA” Playag so Mera ko Gaynol Minol Misem Ptakena sa Ganding Galema si Mayrem Gedageda o ekan a pagiwidan eyan kon so karengkas o donya Di makapmenundas ka ana diya barael a pamentoan eyan so ititingkap ko aras.

Kanugon o sadawn alungan a di mundas, Nugon o sadayday a senang a di montawar.

Babae Ako

“ALONG O MGA LOKES” Inisorat I Mohammad Nadhif R. Hadji Nabel

Inisorat I Latifa Sor Ly “Bangka di katawi si raga sa ripag?

Inilangoy niyan so baya ginawa niyan!

Tyumo iyan so ranon ko ginawa niyan a di so lokes iyan.”

Ubangka bo pkhaneg so rarangit o puso aken Wata, mala-a tao na ayangkawn maaneg si bae a da tadem iyan…

Andamanaya I di ko kayumu-a ki ginawa ko a rasay?

Naino o pakalipatan ako asar ka di aken ikatimbel, Naino o ikhaya akongka asar ka mitoman aken so ranon ko ginawa.

Bituwanen a titho ugaid na matitho; Inibegay niyan so da samba iyan.

Bituwanen a titho ugaid na malimo; Inilay niyan so kamapyaan o ginawa niyan.

Bituwanen a titho ugaid na aden a tadem iyan; Inikalimo ka niyan a rakes o ranon iyan.

Bangka da masima so ginawa ko a rasay?

Colorblind

those sunflowers?

did not Van Gogh feel so sad he drank yellow paint to cope? so where in his death was the relief, the joy they spoke of, the hope? how can I even afford the luxury of gold petals and yellow sighs

when these days only funerals see flowers when it is already a luxury to survive? life these days is all loud colors and to close my eyes feels safer

to remind me that yellow light means caution and all it signals is incoming danger.

life these days is loud as it is,

so there is solace in being bereft.

is it not easier to be somber than stain my sighs with regret?

life these days is loud as it is, with the world smeared with upset.

is not color all but a mockery in face of all this death?

but my brother whispers he paints his sun purple and mom laughs that sunflowers make her allergic,

he says the sun isn’t really yellow like how hope, she says, is less color and more perspective. see, it’s dad that mom loves, not the flowers

7

Pakatatayaan Aken (My beloved) Latifa Sor Ly

Silence of my aching heart I wish you to hear; A lost echo that vibrates like the roaring waves of Lanao, You alone can distinguish and you alone can hear…

Agape was I when a man like you came to ease the pain; Never will I forget the moment you tried— Giving me the long search that my lonely face believed in…

Knights of all lands will never resound the echo Of the never-ending affection you will enlighten—forever!

People of our time may not be able to recognize A love that only comes from a man with courage; Knots of the tied servants of the heart may attest…

Aspiring knights shall never cease the heart I gave To my knight who captured my lonely face Amazingly without a doubt who can fight…

Trembling heart of mine, you eased with faith; A faith that only God has the power to read Your longing and powerful zeal, to Him, you reveal.

A masterpiece who became you, An artist who painted the love my face reveal, Now and forever, I shall treasure…

Artists of all genres may not believe the faith that you have; Knowledge of all intellectuals may argue but…

Nay will I regret forever that I have pakatatayaan aken!

(This poem was written when the Bituwanen remarried to her beloved…)

Adia Bangcola

and my brother finds his giggles in violet skies,

the yellow that killed Gogh is the same yellow that birthed his art and the same traffic light for caution is the same light that saves lives.

so let them paint my sighs yellow beaming even in the rainiest of days, let even my deepest despair glow in the most blinding of ways.

let them paint my sighs gray or whatever color they’d like,

it is not a mockery to want to be okay we don’t insult the fallen when we rise.

we don’t have to be golden right

away sweetheart, you can take your time

grief may be the loudest of pigments but here we are colorblind.

here, sneers are just smiles with downward corners they’re all just clenched teeth,

here, it’s not the promise of less sorrow, but that of new tomorrows - that’s all we ever really need.

and it is easy to fear the intensity when life is loud as it is,

but in it, can you not find tints of “maybe” and these different shades of “what if?”

Marawi Aken Editorial Board Prof. Sorhaila Latip-Yusoph Editor in Chief and Infographics Artist Ms. Johaniah N. Ysuoph - Associate Editor Contributors and Writers Ms. Alwidad Basher Ms. Nursaleha Dadayan Mr. Suharto Ali Ms. Sahria Lawi-Macabalang, JD Ms. Miara Fatimah M. Mapandi Prof. Rocaira Racman-Gumal Mr. Mohammad Nadhif R. H. Nabel Prof. Sittie Adaweyah L. Macabago MP Zia Alonto Adiong Office of MP Hamid Barra

Literary Writers Khadaffy Daragangan Cagul Mangondato Mohammad Nadhif R. Hadji Nabel Zian Bangkero Adia Bangcola Latifa Sor Ly Mosmirah Abduljalil

This Issue is brought to us by:

AMDF Creating Spaces Project

marawiaken

FAQs about Birth Registration Source: What is birth registration?

Birth registration is the process of recording a child’s birth. It is a permanent and official record of a child’s existence and provides legal recognition of that child’s identity.

At a minimum, it establishes a legal record of where the child was born and who his or her parents are. Birth registration is required for a child to get a birth certificate – his or her first legal proof of identity.

What is the difference between birth registration and a birth certificate?

Broadly speaking, birth registration is the process of officially logging a birth with a government authority, and a birth certificate is the paper issued by the state to the parent or caregiver as a result of this process. A birth certificate proves that registration has occurred.

Birth registration and birth certificates ideally go hand in hand. However, because the processes for issuing birth certificates can vary depending on location, a child might be registered but never receive a birth certificate.

What happens if a child isn’t registered?

Birth registration is the only legal way for a child to get a birth certificate.

This legal proof of identity can help protect children from violence, abuse and exploitation. Without a birth certificate, children are unable to prove their age, which puts them at a much higher risk of being forced into early marriage or the labour market, or recruited into armed forces.