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Thursday, May 31, 2018

Why not Vista Land?


CLUP NOW STATEMENT
May 31, 2018

In the  Commission on Appointments hearing last May 29, farmer leader Elvie Baladad called into question the alleged illegal conversion of Vista Land & Lifescapes, Incorporated of agricultural lands for real estate development. According to an article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer, “the mere mention of the company did not sit well with Villar.”

Villar questioned Baladad for targeting her family’s business, stating “Bakit ba lahat ng projects ng Vista Land? Ang dami-daming nagtayo ng bahay sa Pilipinas, dami-daming nagtayo ng industries sa Pilipinas, dami-daming nagtayo ng commercial buildings sa Pilipinas, bakit ba binabanggit mo puro Vista Land? Galit ka ba sa akin? Is this a political issue or a legitimate issue?”

(Why are you singling out Vista Land? There are other developers which have built houses in the Philippines, set up industries in the Philippines, and constructed commercial buildings in the Philippines, why are you citing just Vista Land? Are you mad at me? Is this a political issue or a legitimate issue?)

To this, the Campaign for Land Use Policy Now (CLUP Now) network says: WHY NOT.
As a senator of the Philippines, you, Senator Villar, should not have conflicts of interest within your work as public official. According to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (RA 6713), "conflict of interest" occurs when a public official or employee is a member of a board, an officer, or a substantial stockholder of a private corporation or owner or has a substantial interest in a business, and the interest of such corporation or business, or his rights or duties therein, may be opposed to or affected by the faithful performance of official duty.” The RA also states that public officials “shall avoid conflicts of interest AT ALL TIMES.”

When you, Sen. Villar, confronted Ka Elvie, you reveal to the public what we knew all along – that you were more keen to preserve your family’s business interest above all else. Your attempts at deflecting a legitimate issue by stating that there are other developers doing the same thing prove futile.

The Filipino people are on to you, Senator Cynthia Villar.
You imply that we’re singling you out of the multitude of developers in the country, as if you’re a political target. Lest you forget, while you hold a position that gives you the power to protect the environment and prime agricultural lands, it also gives you the power to withhold such protection. No other developer in the country has that power. No other developer has publicly sworn to prioritize the interest of the Filipinos above all else. So yes, why not Vista Land?

As the current chairperson of the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Food, Agrarian Reform, and Environment and Natural Resources, you are mandated to protect the environment and prime agricultural lands from the impacts of developments including that of Vista Land projects.

This is not the first time that Vista Land was accused of converting prime agricultural lands into real estate projects. A previous case in 2014, in Plaridel, Bulacan, farmers were protesting Vista Land’s development of Lumina Homes. In this case, irrigated rice lands were converted into a subdivision. Farmers protested that the irrigation system they depended on was blocked by Lumina Homes and will deplete other farms of water supply.

In the senate, your refusal to hear key legislations like the National Land Use Act shows that you value your family’s business interests over your duty as a legislator.

The proposed National Land Use Act aims to rationalize holistic, just allocation, and use of the country’s land and water resources, including real estate developments for human settlements, by institutionalizing land use and physical planning for proper management of resources. Your business won’t be deprived of space, Senator Villar. They will only be placed where they can best operate without compromising the use of lands more fit for agriculture and environmental conservation.

This important piece of legislation has been under the auspices of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources since July 2016. The House of Representatives already passed House Bill No. 5240 on May 2, 2017 and was transmitted to the senate a week after. No less than the Chief Executive of our country, President Rodrigo Duterte, has called for its passage in his State of the Nation Address in July 2017 and it has consistently been in the priority legislative agenda of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC). Despite these, you, Senator Villar has made no concrete action to convene the Committee on Environment and Natural Resource to discuss the bill.

We call on you, Senator Cynthia Aguilar Villar, to do your sworn duty to legislate meaningful and important laws like the NLUA. If you can’t, please make way for someone who can.
(By Caryl Pillora)

1st Infantry Division hosts Battalion Commander’s Symposium in Pagadian City


By HIROHITO ‘Jong’ D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 31, 2018) – The Army’s premier Infantry (Tabak) Division is hosting this year’s Battalion Commanders’ Symposium (BCS) held at Guillermo Hotel in this city from May 29-31, 2018, Military Official said.

Division Public Affairs Office Chief Major Ronal E. Suscano disclosed that this is a three-day activity attended by sixty six Western Mindanao Command-Based Battalion Commanders from 1st Infantry Division and 6th Infantry Division including  Battalions from Special Forces and Scout Rangers. This year’s theme for BCS is: “Adaptable Battalion Commanders, Responding to Challenge”.

The said activity aims to emphasize the Battalion  Commander’s critical role in community security, development support, and accomplishing the given mission in their respective area of responsibility, Maj. Suscano said. 

He said ARMM Governor Mujiv S. Hataman provided some valuable insights of the Local Chief Executives as one of the invited resource speakers. In his speech, he underscores the importance of partnership and engagement between the local government and the armed forces in attaining peace and development of the region.


“This is not the first I’m talking to you giving some important experiences working with the military.  My positive outlook towards the armed forces happened as a result of these numerous experiences especially during the Marawi crisis where I appreciated too much the heroism and services of every soldier in protecting the civilians, defending peace and security, democracy, and the rule of law”, Gov Hataman added as he expressed his profound gratitude being invited as a resource speaker.    

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Police collared Murder Suspect in Law Enforcement Operation

Personnel of Salug MPS (Photo file from FB)


By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 30, 2018) – The joint operating troops of PNP 905th Mobile Company of Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9 and Salug Municipal Police Station successfully arrested the murder suspect during the conduct Law Enforcement Operation through Service of Warrant of Arrest Tuesday at about 2:30pm at the boundary of Brgy. Pacuhan and Brgy. Pukay of Salug municipality in the neighboring province of Zamboaanga del Norte.

PCINSP Helen L. Galvez, PRO-Chief PIO identified the arrested suspect as Barcello Bendo, 35 yrs. old, married, resident of Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province and temporary residing at Brgy. Pukay in Salug municipality in the neighboring province of Zamboaanga del Norte.  

CInsp. Galvez disaclosed that the suspect was wounded after he opened fire at the operating troops upon sensing of their arrival which prompted them to return fire.

The suspect was immediately brought to Liloy General Hospital, Liloy municipality, Zamboanga Del Norte for medication, Police Official said.

Police recovered at the crime scene was one unit cal. 38 revolver and was properly turned-over to Salug MPS for proper disposition.

The suspect was further forwarded to ZaNorte Medical Center, Dipolog City for further medical attention and still under the custody and being guarded by personnel of 905th MC for same purpose.

PAF Chopper made emergency landing in Zamboanga City


PAF UH-IH Huey combat utility Helicopter file photo

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 30, 2018) - A Philippine Air Force (PAF) UH-IH ‘Huey’ helicopter made an emergency landing specifically at Bernardo’s farm Zone 8 of Brgy Ayala, Zamboanga City Tuesday at 5:00pm.

Major Aristides Galang, PAF spokesperson, disclosed that the chopper incurred problem on its tail rotter blade while conducting training flight maneuver in Zamboanga City.

The helicopter took off from Edwin Andrews Air Base at 3:30 p.m. and was on training maneuvers when it encountered an ‘in-flight emergency’, Major Galang said. This forced the pilots and the crew to made an emergency landing at Farm.

"The aircraft incurred damages but the pilots and crew members were not injured. The PAF sent a team to conduct investigation," Galan stressed.

The PAF operates 30 to 40 units of the "Huey" helicopters for transport, supply and medical evacuation missions. (With report from PNA)



2 dead, 5 injured in road accident in Zamboanga Sibugay

UV Bongo collided with Rural Bus Transit Incorporated
(Photo courtesy by PRO-9 PCR)
By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 30, 2018) – Two were dead while five others were injured after a passenger bus of Rural Transit Incorporated and a Utility Vehicle Bongo collided along the National Highway of Purok 5 Barangay Upper Tungawan of Tungawan town in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay Wednesday at 5:20am.

P01 Mohammad Nur Hadjail Alamia, investigator on case of Tungawan Municipal Police Station identified the casualty as Generoso B. Villarin, 39 years old, driver of UV Bongo and a resident of Barangay Talon-Talon Zamboanga City and his passenger Jason A. Sagrado were declared as dead on the spot by the duty Nurse of Tungawan Municipal Health Center. Another passenger injured was rushed to nearby hospital is Rey Butron Ybanez, 31 years old, married and a resident of Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay.

P01 Alamia said that four also injured including the driver of Rural Bus passenger identified as Alan Cajocon Tulabing and three of their passengers identified as:
Fe Oral Lagumbay, 45 years old, female, married and a resident of Pagadian City,
Nestor Castillo Gramatica, 29 years old, male, married and a resident of Zamboanga City and
Michael Lacasdesantos Eleno. They were rushed to Tungawan Municipal Health Center for immediate medication.

Initial investigation disclosed that UV Bongo was traveling to Zamboanga City while The Rural Bus was traveling towars Ipil Zamboanga Sibugay and upon reaching the place of accident the driver of Bong vehicle dozed off and suddenly bumped to the passenger bus.

 Both vehicles involvef were severely damage and now still in the said area waiting for towing, Police Official said.


UV Bongo collided with Rural Bus Transit Incorporated
(Photo courtesy by PRO-9 PCR)

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

GORDON SAYS SSS BILL WILL GIVE PEOPLE A LIFELINE

Senator Richard J. Gordon

MANILA  (May 29, 2018) - Senator Richard J. Gordon said Senate Bill 1753 under Committee Report No. 300 will give people a lifeline that they can hold on to in their posterity or when life becomes over-burdened.

In his sponsorship speech, Gordon said the bill that aims to rationalize and expand the powers of the Social Security Commission (SSC) to ensure the long-term viability of the Social Security System (SSS). The SSC is the governing board of the SSS.

“This bill do not promise an abundance of wealth. ‘Di po ito nagsasabi na bibigyang yaman natin ang tao. Ang sinasabi lang po dito ay pagka nagkaroon sila ng aberya sa kanilang buhay ay meron silang panghahawakan. Meron po silang hinahawakan na masasandalan. Meron silang lifeline that they, themselves, created. Na sila mismo ang nag-contribute with other Filipinos towards the benefit of their own posterity,” Gordon said.
“This is a wonderful bill for the benefit and welfare of our people. Its very title alone, speaks of lengthening or for that matter making sure that the viability, long term viability of the SSS is ensured. When the retirees’ pension was increased by P1,000 last year, the fund life of SSS immediately decreased by ten years… That’s why it has become imperative for us to see to it that this bill is approved,” he added.

Among the salient provisions of the bill include giving SSS the power to set salary credits and schedule that is cognizant of members’ capacity to pay and contribution; and actuarial projections and increase contributions and pensions without the need to wait for presidential approval. It will also have the power to condone or compromise delinquency contributions but it is subject to the submission of annual report to Congress.

SSS will also be given flexibility to invest idle SSS funds in viable investments but subject to review by Congress. It can also start a provident fund and increase savings.

The bill also provides for expanding SSS’ membership by tapping overseas Filipino workers, among others, to increase the pension fund’s base and its collections, and at the same time ensure that OFWs and other members can enjoy a decent retirement later on. Both land-based and sea-based OFWs will be covered.

“Ang nangyayari ngayon – di sila nagbabayad ng SSS, trabaho sila ng trabaho, andaming parusang ginagawa sa kanila, andaming sakripisyo, pagdating pa ng retirement nila at magkasakit sila, wala silang makukuha. Itong batas na ito ngayon ay magbibigay-daan para sila ay masama sa pondo ng pension ng SSS,” Gordon said. (PRESS RELEASE = Jong Cadion)

Sunday, May 27, 2018

Visit of the Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific to Cotabato

L-R Former Anak Mindanao Party List Representative Ariel 
Hernandez, ARMM Executive Secretary Atty Laisa Alamia,
 Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely,Regional Governor Mujiv 
Hataman, Australia’sMinister for International Development and 
the Pacific,Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, Butig Mayor Dimnatang
Pansar, and DepEd-ARMM Secretary, Atty. Rasol Mitmug, Jr. 
(Photo Courtesy by Australian Embassy)

Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, visited Cotabato City on  May 2 to highlight Australia’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in Mindanao.

Senator Fierravanti-Wells met with the Regional Governor of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao The Hon Mujiv Hataman and representatives of non-government organisations and youth leaders. 

“Australia is committed to supporting our friends in the Philippines to prevent the spread of violent extremist ideologies” said Senator Fierravanti-Wells. “The devastation of Marawi City, the loss of life and forced displacement of people all show the terrible impact that these ideologies have.”

Australia is working with local partners in Mindanao to provide humanitarian relief to people displaced from Marawi, support the recovery and reconstruction of the city and promote peace and tolerance in communities.

“I welcome the efforts of the Government of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, and other local partners, to counter the messages of terrorist groups and keep people on the path to peace” added Senator Fierravanti-Wells.

In the last 12 months Australia as provided over $20 million in development assistance for programs in Mindanao, including for basic education and peace and stability. 
(Press release by Australian Embassy)

PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT VISITS AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST NAVY SHIP


Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visited the HMAS
Adelaide, the largest ship ever built for the Royal Australian
Navy (RAN). (Photo Courtesy of the Australian Department
of Defence)

Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visited the HMAS Adelaide, the largest ship ever built for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).  The President was accompanied on the tour by members of the Cabinet Cluster on Security.

HMAS Adelaide is in Manila as part of a regional deployment by the Australian Defence Force to strengthen ties with the region.   Indo-Pacific Endeavour  2017 aims to promote security and stability in Australia’s near region through engagement, training and capacity building.  This is the ship’s maiden deployment to South East Asia.

Welcoming the President on arrival were Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely, Australian Chief of Defence Mark Binskin and ship Captain Jonathan Earley .

“I am pleased to welcome President Duterte to the HMAS Adelaide,” said Ambassador Gorely. “Both our countries have a strategic interest in ensuring maritime security and maintaining a stable region.”

The President was given a tour of the ship by Commander Joint Task Group, Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2017, Captain Earley, who highlighted the ship’s Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief (HADR) capabilities.

“The Australian Defence Force values the deep engagement with the Philippines, and our continuing engagement on key security priorities,” Captain Earley said.  “The humanitarian aid and disaster relief training and the strong bilateral engagement during this visit illustrates how much Australia values its long-standing and close relationship with the Philippines.”

HMAS Adelaide is a Landing Helicopter Dock ship (LHD), weighing 27,800 tonnes and 230 metres in length, designed to provide medical and humanitarian assistance during regional emergencies with a 40-bed hospital, complete with 2 operating theatres. Its 200 metre flight-deck can carry up to 12 helicopters. More than 100 vehicles and 2100 tonnes of cargo can be stored inside. It can also transport up to 1,000 military personnel and their equipment for a rapid disaster response deployment.

The Adelaide will also visit Subic where the crew will continue their engagement with their Filipino counterparts. Over 100 Philippine Armed Forces personnel including the elite Philippine Marines will participate in a sea-ride on Adelaide’s landing craft providing a hands-on experience of the Australian Defence Force’s humanitarian and disaster relief capability.  The exercise will provide a practical opportunity for the two militaries to further enhance interoperability and cooperation, particularly following a natural disaster.

Australia and the Philippines have a long-standing Defence Cooperation Program that includes counter-terrorism, maritime security and capability development assistance to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

https://www.facebook.com/RoyalAustralianNavy/videos/1892523724095652/



Aussie bizmen seek opportunities in Cebu, Mindanao

Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Amanda Gorely
(Photo Courtesy of the Australian Department of Defence)
By Digna Banzon

DAVAO CITY (May 27, 2018) - A number of Manila-based Australian investors are looking beyond the National Capital Region to find business opportunities, the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines said.

Ambassador Amanda Gorely said this in an interview shortly before the opening program of the Philippines Australia Friendship Day celebration held at the SM Lanang Premier in Davao City on Saturday.

"Once they come into the Philippines they realize it is not all Manila because there are other opportunities in other parts of the country too," Gorely said.

She added: "Although I am not sure but I think there is a tendency by Australian business people to focus on Manila when they think about the Philippines because it is where the biggest market is."

She said a number of NCR-based Australian companies have already expressed intention to put up shop in other locations, such as Cebu and Mindanao areas.

She pointed out that several Australian firms have business interests in Mindanao's mining sector, though she conceded that Australia still has "some works to do to encourage further Australian interest" in the countryside.

"We have to educate people on what opportunities are here to consider beyond Manila and Cebu. And I think Davao is the next place to come," she said.

A huge potential, she said, is Mindanao's rising cacao industry -  citing the popularity of chocolate products in Australia. She pointed out that a number of cacao farmers benefitted from the Australian scholarship -- where farmers were provided insights on marketing and packaging of their products.

Another active partnership is the collaboration between the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) on a mango research center in the Island Garden City of Samal.

The research center was established eight years ago, focusing on raising the skills and knowledge of local growers for them to tap overseas markets.

Among the activities marking the 72nd anniversary of the Philippine-Australia Friendship Day include the unveiling of Australian corner in the Davao City Library, the turnover of books and educational materials to several public schools and handover of grant to the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

The embassy also hosted a lecture on how Filipinos can study in Australia, as well as mall tours highlighting the accomplishments of Australian-educated Filipino entrepreneurs. A concert capped the event featuring Filipino and Australian singers. (Digna Banzon/PNA)


Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visited the HMAS Adelaid 
(Photo Courtesy of the Australian Department of Defence)
Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visited the HMAS Adelaide, the largest ship ever built for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). Welcoming the President on arrival were Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely, Australian Chief of Defence Mark Binskin and  Commander Joint Task Group, Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2017, Captain Jonathan Earley (RAN).  Read more here.

Saturday, May 26, 2018

TESDA to launch special skills training for IPs, ex-rebels in Maramag



By Mel Madera 

MALAYBALAY CITY (May 26, 2018) - The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will launch its special skills training program in Maramag town in Bukidnon province on June 1.

TESDA Bukidnon director, Kotie R. Bax, told members of the Bukidnon media on May 22 that top TESDA officials and other government officials will gather at the campus of the Mindanaw Tribal School in Barangay Panadtalan in Maramag to launch the program.

Bax said the program will cater to members of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who have returned to the fold of the law.

The program will accommodate 15,000 skills development training slots for IPs nationwide, she said, adding that the training will be conducted at TESDA-accredited training schools.

In the province, Bax said the training will be held at the 31 TESDA-accredited public and private schools that offer technical and vocational programs.

She said there are about 52 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) qualification title or course of the 12 sectors that are included in the special program.

These sectors are agricultural, automotive, construction, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning), metals and engineering, semi-conductor and electronics, furniture and fixtures, garment and textiles, health, social and other community development services, tourism, process food and beverages and utilities.

Participants who complete the training module will be assessed and will be given a national certification once they pass, Bax said.

Abdulwahid Madum, TESDA Bukidnon information officer, disclosed that of the total national quota, the entire Northern Mindanao region has 1,400 slots, wherein Bukidnon has a share of 340 slots.

Madum said the identified recipients will receive a PHP100 daily training allowance, compared to the other TESDA programs whose recipients only receive PHP60 per day. (Mel B. Madera/PNA)

21 entrepreneurs finish ‘Kapatid Mentor ME Program’


By Teofilo Garcia, Jr 


ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 26, 2018) – A total of 21 Micro, Small, and Medium Entrepreneurs graduated from the 11-week “Kapatid Mentor ME Program” of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here Friday.

DTI Provincial Director Ceferino Rubio said the graduates comprised the first batch of the agency’s 2018 Kapatid Mentor ME Program in this city.

Rubio said the program aims to assist Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) scale up their businesses through weekly theoretical and conceptual discussions, as well as mentoring and coaching sessions by Go Negosyo’s mentors, who are experienced entrepreneurs, and seasoned business lecturers on the different areas of entrepreneurship.

Rubio said the first batch of the Kapatid Mentor ME Program consists of eleven modules: entrepreneurial mind-setting and values formation, marketing mindset, market-driven product development and innovation, market growth and expansion, the business model canvas and key partners, operations management, supply and value chain, human resource and organization management, entrepreneurial accounting and financial management, taxation, and business law.

The graduation featured a business improvement plan presentation by the mentees, followed by a breakout session and critiquing by the panel groups.

The members of the panel groups are officials and representatives of government agencies and banking institutions, such as the DTI, Land Bank of the Philippines, and Development Bank of the Philippines, and business and private groups such as the Zamboanga City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc.

“We would like to reiterate our heartfelt gratitude to our partners from Go Negosyo and the private sector whose invaluable support contributed to the success of the program,” Rubio said.

“With their help, we have equipped and will continue to equip our MSMEs in Zamboanga City with the needed skills sets, the right mindset, and business know-how to ultimately scale up and sustain their enterprise,” he added. (PNA)

Male giant sperm whale found dead off Zamboanga

Wikipedia photo shows a mother and a baby sperm whale.

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr 

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 26, 2018) - A male giant sperm whale or “cachalot” was found dead floating near Sacol Island located east of this city, an official said Friday.

Dr. Arnedo Agbayani, Animal Health Division chief of the Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVet), said they were not able to conduct necropsy to determine the cause of the whale's death since it is already in the advance state of decomposition.

Agbayani said the coastguard pulled the dead animal to the shore of Barangay Sangali around 6 p.m. Thursday, where it was immediately buried.

Agbayani said the whale, which is estimated to be three years old,  measured 6.5 meters in length and weighed two tons.

He said the dead mammal could have separated from its mother and was disoriented due to illegal fishing. Sperm whales aged four to 21 should still be in the company of their mother while navigating the high seas. (PNA)

Thursday, May 24, 2018

Ozamiz residents were on mixed emotion after Ardot Parojinog arrested in Taiwan

Ricardo “Ardot” Parojinog 

By PHILIP JAMES M TREMEDAL
     and JONG D. CADION

PAGADIAN CITY (May 24, 2018) – The residents in Ozamiz City were on mixed emotion after Board member Ricardo “Ardot” Parojinog was finally arrested by the Taiwanese Police in Tung-kang Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan past 6pm on Wednesday by Taiwanese Police.

As reported by national TV networks, Online News Sites and other Social Media account, Ozamiz City Chief of Police, P/Chief Inspector Jovie Espenido confirms the arrest of Ardot Parojinog.

Parojinog evaded the authorities for 10 months, after his brother Ozamiz City Mayor Reynaldo “Aldong” Parojinog Sr was killed together with his younger brother Misamis Occidental 2nd district Board member Octavio Parojinog Jr., Aldong’s wife Susan, and another sister during the daring raid by the PNP-CIDG and local City Police led by COP P/Chief Inspector Jovie

Also arrested during the raid the son of mayor Reynaldo Jr. and City Vice Mayor Nova Princes Parojinog and were now in the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame facing criminal charges in violation of RA 10591 and RA 9165 in July 30, 2017.

City Councilor and Misamis Occidental PCL President and seat as ex-officio member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Ardot Parojinog escape from the raiding team led by Chief Inspector Jovie Espenido at his residence in Bagakay, Ozamiz City

According to the report, the fugitive has been located after his former colleagues who earlier arrested by the Philippine National Police (PNP) revealed his current location that led the PNP to coordinate with the Taiwanese authorities, which resulted at the end of his 10-month hiding of the City Councilor. Malacanang is not yet giving any comment on the arrest of Parojinog.

Parojinog is expected to face cases for possessing illegal drugs and heavy firearms.

Two weeks ago, authorities confiscated several high-powered firearms and bombs from the board member owned Dottie’s Inn and MORP Security Agency Office owned and managed by Ms. Meme Luansing, MisOcc 2nd District Board member and common law wife of Ardot and also wanted by the police in violating RA 10951.

The Police seized 2 antitank rockets, 2 rocket-propelled grenades, several rifle grenades and different firearms and also confiscated 2 packs of suspected illegal drugs and several explosives at the farm house which allegedly owned by the Parojinogs.

The newly appointed Officer in Charge of the Misamis Occidental Provincial Police Office (MOCPPO) Police Senior Superintendent Emmanuel Hebron in lieu of PD Senior Superintendent Jaycen de Guzman who is accordingly on leave for 15 days in an press interview said that he is happy. “The arrest of Ardot indeed is an accomplishment of the police as it implemented the war on drugs policy of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and with the help of the Interpol and Taiwan Police the later was finally arrested,” he added.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Senators support IP rights for an inclusive BBL



By Mabel Carumba and
     Judy A. Pasimio

MANILA (May 23, 2018) – “Identity, ancestral domain, protection of their rights as non-Moro Indigenous Peoples – these are the issues that I have heard from our Lumad leaders, and I will bring these to the plenary debates on the BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law),” says Senator Joel Villanueva.

Indigenous leaders from Teduray, Lambangian and Erumanen ne Menuvu communities met with Senator Villanueva, Tuesday, to bring their concerns on SB 1717--the proposed BBL from the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC)-- sponsored by Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri. These indigenous communities come from the core and adjoining areas of the proposed Bangsamoro territory. One of the key issues is the recognition of their rights as articulated in the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA).

“Is the definition of the Free, Prior, Informed Consent (FPIC) as provided for in the proposed BBL, the same as that in IPRA?”, asked Senator Villanueva during his interpellation of the proposed BBL.  Senator Zubiri responded, “Yes”, to which Senator Villanueva said, “I appreciate that response from the sponsor himself, guaranteeing the rights of the Indigenous Peoples in this measure.”

“This is something very promising,” Fintailan Leonora Mokudef  Teduray woman leader said. “One of our proposed revisions is the recognition of rights of IPs over natural resources.  Exploration, development and utilization of natural resources within ancestral domains should be subject to FPIC.”

According to Timuay Santos Unsad, a Teduray leader, “We have been pushing for a BBL that does not diminish our rights as already provided for in IPRA.”  IPRA, a national law, has not been recognized and implemented in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) since its passage in 1997.

“This is now the opportunity for us to be fully included in the peace process. If our rights already recognized in the IPRA will be fully included in the proposed measure, we highly appreciate this, as this will make this process genuinely inclusive and responsive not only to the Bangsamoro people’s aspiration for just and lasting peace but also to us IPs who have been marginalized,” Timuay Unsad continued.

“In the repealing clause of the proposed BBL, we are proposing that it be amended to say ‘Provided that such laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations, and other issuances and parts thereof, shall not be inconsistent with the Constitution, and shall not fall below the minimum standards contained in national laws and relevant international instruments.’”

Timuay Unsad, played a critical role in the government-convened Mindanao IP Legislative Assembly (MIPLA) being a Majority Floor Leader of the MIPLA 34-member Panel of Representatives, which consolidated IP recommended revisions to the BBL. These recommendations were endorsed and submitted by the NCIP to both Houses of the Congress.


Senator Ralph Recto, which received the MIPLA proposals told Timuay Unsad and the group, committed to “push for the MIPLA revisions 100%.”
The IP leaders also met with Senators Nancy Binay, Bam Aquino, Risa Hontiveros, and the offices of Senator Loren Legarda, Jv Ejercito, Antonio Trillanes and Franklin Drilon. They are scheduled to meet with Senator Leila de Lima.

“We have left our communities again to be here and meet with the members of Congress. There have been promises and commitment of support to our cause.

We hope that this time, these promises will be translated to actual amendments, and will be incorporated in the bill and an inclusive BBL will finally be passed,” says Timuay Leticio Datuwata, a Lambangian leader.

The IP leaders are part of LOYUKAN (IPs in Central Mindanao term to mean comrade) which is composed of different Indigenous Political Structures, and IP rights advocates pushing for the full inclusion of IP rights within the BBL.

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Marawi conflict: One year on, longing and uncertainty for displaced families


ICRC Marawi- Diane Sumangan: Diane Sumangan, 
her husband and their seven children have been in 
Saguiaran evacuation center for a year. She says 
life in the evacuation center is difficult. They are 
patiently waiting for government’s advice on where 
they should go next. ICRC/R. Hashempour

MANILA (ICRC- May 23, 2018) – Around 230,000 people remain displaced and in need of stronger support one year after armed conflict broke out in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, southern Philippines.
“Efforts to rehabilitate Marawi and assist its people must be stepped up to reduce the suffering of thousands of those who were displaced over the past year. The efforts are there, but these must match the growing needs of those who face prolonged displacement and are close to despair,” said Pascal Porchet, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) delegation in the Philippines.

With the response shifting from emergency phase towards early recovery, food donations have dwindled and livelihood opportunities are reaching only a few. Majority of displaced families still depend on relatives or friends for support, while those in evacuation sites continue to struggle with poor living conditions in makeshift camps, increasing their risk of illness.

“It has been a year since the armed clashes began and we still don’t know what lies ahead. I’m starting to feel the weight of it, and there are times when I feel like giving up. But for the sake of my children, I strive to stay strong,” said Diane Sumangan, an evacuee in Saguiaran. She is a resident of Bubonga Marawi, one of the 24 villages in the main area affected by the clashes.

The displaced families, added Porchet, struggle to feed their families, buy medicines or resume their small businesses due to lack of livelihood opportunities or capital. Uncertainty about the future has added to their worries.

Authorities estimate that 65,000 residents from the main area where structures were reduced to rubble will be unable to return home for the next two to three years. The transitional site in Sagonsongan, Marawi City, can only accommodate 6,000 of them.

“The ICRC remains committed to supporting those who fled the fighting, and to do more by addressing gaps in the overall early recovery response, in coordination with the authorities and other aid organizations,” Porchet said.

“But, it is primarily the authorities’ role to assist people affected by conflict. The pending issues concerning the transitional site such as lack of regular supply of water and absence of proper sewage collection and treatment should be resolved soon,” he stressed.

Particularly concerned about the pain of people whose loved ones went missing during the fighting, the ICRC and Philippine Red Cross (PRC) are following up on the cases of more than 100 families with the aim of tracing the whereabouts of their missing kin.

“We are stepping up efforts to accompany and support these families. There is a need for a neutral and independent organization such as the Red Cross to work in this field. We encourage those with information about missing people in Marawi to approach the Red Cross,” said Adriana Uribe Villa, who leads the ICRC’s response in Marawi.

The ICRC has been supporting the Management of the Dead and Missing Cluster since the start of the crisis for the retrieval, management and identification of human remains.

Ever since clashes broke out in May 2017, the ICRC together with the PRC has been helping thousands of people affected by the Marawi crisis. It is now focusing its efforts to help the remaining displaced families in Marawi and in Lanao del Sur by improving their access to health care and clean water and by supporting their livelihood recovery efforts.
“We plan to direct our assistance to certain high-security areas of Lanao del Sur, where the ICRC has access thanks to its links established with the community and non-state armed groups,” said Uribe Villa.  

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. It has an international mandate to promote knowledge for and respect of international humanitarian law.(By Allison Lopez- ICRC News Release)

ICRC Marawi-Jalil: Jalil's parents chose to stay behind at their home in Barangay Calocan, Marawi City, during the fighting. One year on, Jalil is still looking for them. ICRC/R. Hashempour

IMG_3958: The regular supply of water is still an unresolved issue in the Sagonsongan transition site in Marawi City. Some 800 residents there continue to depend on water trucking or travel outside to get water for their families. ICRC/A. Lopez

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