AFP, law enforcers seize firearms, capture members of drug syndicates in Maguindanao

By Jong Cadion

Zamboanga City (December 30, 2016)- Joint law enforcement operations launched by the military and law enforcement agencies on Wednesday morning yielded to the arrest of several members of drug syndicates, including two leaders, and the seizure of high-powered firearms and drug paraphernalia in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Major Filemon Tan Jr. disclosed that combined operatives of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Lauro Oliveros and the 1st Mechanized Brigade, Mechanized Infantry Division, Philippine Army led by Colonel Felicisimo Budiongan; the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency- Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-ARMM); and the Philippine National Police Datu Odin Sinsuat served the search warrants against Aya Balabaran, alias Commander Biente, in Barangay Kusiong, Datu Odin Sinsuat, and Lamie Mamasabakulod, alias Commander Lawin, the barangay kagawad of Tabian, Datu Odin Sinsuat.

Tan also said that the operation in Kusiong led to the arrest of Balabaran and the recovery of two (2) pieces of large heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets and seven (7) pieces of small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets of suspected shabu, weighing more or less 51 grams. Also nabbed was Normina Abdula Tampugao with 259 pieces of small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets believed to be shabu.

Troops also recovered one (1) M16 Rifle attached with M203 GL, two (2) M16, three (3) M14 Rifle, four (4) 45 cal. pistol, one (1) improvised pistol shotgun, two (2) 40MM M79 rifle grenades, assorted magazines and ammunition.

Tan added that the operation in Tapian, Datu Odin Sinsuat also resulted in the arrest of Mamasabakulod and Almendras Sanday Mama, Jr. Recovered from their possession were six (6) pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets of suspect shabu, weighing more or less 50 grams, one (1) BAR, one (1) M16, one (1) cal. 45 pistol, assorted magazines, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia. Seven suspected drug users were also nabbed during the said operation.

All arrested persons are currently in the custody of the PDEA Regional Office ARMM

Said successful operations were made possible through the collective efforts of the 6th Infantry Division, the PDEA, and the police in the province.

The military continues to assist the police and other law enforcement agencies in the intensified conduct of law enforcement operations to prevent the proliferation of illegal drugs in Central Mindanao.

ARMM bats for 30% poverty incidence rate in 2019

Davao City (November 30, 2016) – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will reduce in three years the region’s poverty incidence to 30%, from 53.4% in 2015, through a convergence of several government efforts.

The development plans are rooted in regional priorities and full backing from the national government. Another component of the plan hinges on commitments from ARMM local chief executives drafted during the 3rd ARMM Local Government Summit on Wednesday, November 30, held at SM Lanang Premier’s SMX Convention Center in Davao City.

“Our target is to improve the living conditions of our households para ma-reduce ang poverty,” ARMM Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia told local chief executives and other government officials attending the summit.

In the first quarter of 2015, ARMM’s poverty incidence was tracked at 53.4% with Lanao del Sur and Sulu posting 70.2% and 61.8% poverty incidence, respectively.

The performance of the regional economy is also on the list for improvement. The growth in gross regional domestic product of the ARMM in 2013 was 3.6%, from only 1.1% in 2012. The figure is projected to improve to 5.6% growth in 2019.

The regional priorities are anchored on six fronts: 

• ·         agri-fishery development under rural development; 
• ·         functional LGUs, improved regional government service delivery, and increased people’s participation under good governance at all levels; 
• ·         anti-terrorism, illegal drugs and crimes under public order and security; 
• ·         health and nutrition, education, livelihood, water and sanitation, and social welfare and protection under basic services for all; 
• ·         disaster preparedness, response and rehabilitation and environmental protection and management under climate change adaptation, and disaster resiliency; and, 
• ·         all components are complemented with infrastructure support.

 It should be noted that the ARMM is undertaking several programs to combat poverty and these include ‘Apat na Dapat’ initiative at the household level, and the ARMM-Health, Education, Livelihood, Peace and security and Synergy, or HELPS, at the barangay level.

“These two programs are specifically designed to address the roots of poverty,” ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said. The Apat na Dapat started in January 2016, with 600 of the region’s families as beneficiaries. In 2017, about 5,000 families will benefit from the program.

At least P240 million was earmarked for the program’s implementation in 2016. The initiative provides the beneficiaries with basic needs such as food and livelihood training, water and sanitation, shelter, and electricity. Gov. Hataman said the absence of even one of these poses risks to a family.

The ARMM-HELPS, is the banner program of the Office of the Regional Governor that aims at establishing a peaceful and secure environment in the region by providing basic social services in relation to health, education, livelihood, good governance and peace at the barangay level. The program was launched in 2013.

The ARMM has allocated a total of P13.7 billion for poverty alleviation since 2014, including a P4 billion budget for 2017.

The national government’s anti-poverty agenda – Comprehensive Reform and Development Agenda (CRDA) – also focuses on the improvement of economic condition of ARMM constituents and those in other conflict-affected areas in Regions 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), 10 (Northern Mindanao) and 12 (Central Mindanao).

Billions of pesos were also allotted by the Duterte administration to the CRDA with projects mostly covering areas in the ARMM.

Rosanna Urdaneta, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority national deputy-director general, said President Duterte wants “to bring the programs and services of the national government to the ARMM and conflict-affected areas.”

The CRDA focuses on the eradication of hunger, establishment of potable water systems, provisions of shelters, free college and technical vocational skills training, electrification, health facilities, agricultural development, and job generation to combat employment and underemployment.

The ARMM leadership noted the realization of the region’s development vision demands the participation of the LGUs. “Hindi po nakasalalay lang sa regional government ang effort [to reduce poverty], we need your [LGUs] help to lower the poverty incidence rate,” Sec. Alamia added.

The local chief executives across the region, comprising of 116 town mayors, two city mayors, planning officers and provincial governors, manifested the commitment to reduce poverty incidence.

“Ang dami kong nakuha from the summit, sobrang nakaka-inspire ang pagbabagong naganap sa ARMM. It actually boosted my desire na lalo pang galingan ang pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa aking bayan,” Mayor Arcam Istarul of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan said noting he is now working to achieve for his town the Seal of Good Local Governance.

“We must prove to the entire nation that Mindanaons can perform as well, if not better, than our counterparts in Luzon and Visayas,” Sec. Ismael Sueno of the Department of the Interior and Local Government said. (Bureau of Public Information)

(By JC-MPF with PR from Bureau of Public Information – ARMM)

DILG Sec. Sueno: ARMM LGU summit to serve as model for other regions

Davao City (November 30, 2016) -- Citing lines from a song, Sec. Ismael Sueno of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) shared how he used to feel as a government official from Mindanao.

"Kami'y mga Muslim lamang, kami'y mga taga-Mindanao lamang," he said. When he was faced with the prospect of leading his political party, he initially questioned if he had what it took to lead at the national level.

Much has changed since then.

A challenge

"This same feeling has become a challenge to many of us," Sueno said.

"We must prove to the entire nation that Mindanaons can perform as well, if not better, than our counterparts in Luzon and Visayas," Sueno said as he addressed local executives from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) attending the 3rd ARMM Local Goverment Summit.

The two-day summit was held in the SMX Convention Center, Davao City.

"Pagkamulat... Pagbabago, Pag-unlad" was the theme for the said event, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about the region.

Sueno noted the negative perception outsiders have regarding communities in the ARMM. When it comes to discussions about the region, outsiders usually "worry" about governance.

But noting reforms in the region in recent years, especially the marked absence of ghost projects, he said that "transparent, accountable, and moral governance" is present in the ARMM.

Cooperation, willpower

The secretary said that cooperation of local executives on peace and order initiatives is perceived by people outside the ARMM as a concern, especially with regard to lawless elements.

The national government, however, believes that governors and mayors in the ARMM can face these challenges, Sueno said.

The LGUs, he noted, are strong partners against lawless elements in the region.

The national and local government's joint success against lawlessness depends on the "willpower of leaders," Sueno said.

President's plans

Sueno also mentioned that a number of the poorest provinces are found in the ARMM, and that the president wants to help uplift the quality of life in these areas.

"If we are to implement projects in ARMM, I will be the project manager in ARMM. Let us implement projects there," Sueno quotes Duterte as saying.

The president has even proposed a trip to Jolo, Sulu to his cabinet members, if only to help dispel negative perceptions on the ARMM.

Despite the recent incident in Marawi, Sueno mentioned that the president insists on pushing through with his scheduled visits in Mindanao and that this is a sign of the president's commitment to the region.

Model for other regions

The DILG has earlier hosted a national event tagged as Sulong Pilipinas: LGU Consultations on Peace and Order, and Social Development. However, Sueno intends to conduct LGU consultations at the regional level and to use the ARMM LGU Summit as a model.

"We have seen Gov. Hataman's sincerity in his desire to conduct this consultation, and how strongly he wants to battle negative perceptions against the ARMM," Sueno said.

"We will also do this for other regions," he added. (Bureau of Public Information)

(By JC-MPF with PR from Bureau of Public Information - ARMM)

ARMM’s local leaders vow commitment to region’s development programs

Davao City (November 30, 2016) – Local government officials in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) vowed full commitment to the region’s development programs.

Comprising of 116 municipal mayors, two city mayors, planning officers, five provincial governors and members of the ARMM legislative assembly, the region’s officials are at the SM Lanang Premier's SMX Convention Center in Davao City on Wednesday for a two-day Local Government Unit (LGU) Summit.

Carrying the theme “Pagkamulat, Pagbabago at Pag-unlad”, the event is aimed at upscaling local government performance and determining the state of the region’s local development and governance.

Davao City councilor Halila Sudagar, representing city mayor Sarah Duterte-Carpio, encouraged the participants to create a positive change in the development of communities in the region.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman opened the summit by speaking of the changes in the region during the past four years. Gov. Hataman reiterated that ARMM, for more than two decades, has been left behind by progress.

“Because of stronger LGU and regional government partnership, we changed the negative perception in the ARMM,” Mayor Arcam Istarul of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan said. Mayor Istarul is a newly elected local chief executive.

“Ang dami kong nakuha from the summit, sobrang nakaka-inspire ang pagbabagong naganap sa ARMM. It actually boosted my desire na lalo pang galingan ang pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa aking bayan,” Mayor Istarul said noting he is now working to achieve for his town the Seal of Good Local Governance.

“Binago natin sa loob ng apat na taon ang negatibong imahe ng ARMM,” Gov. Hataman said. This year alone, there are already six Seal of Good Local Governance awardees in the region.

“Patunayan natin na ang ARMM sa nakaraang dalawang dekada ay iba na ngayon,” the governor said as he challenged the local government units to also pass the Seal of Good Housekeeping. Over 50% of the towns in the region have earned the Seal of Good Housekeeping. 

During his speech, Secretary Ismael Sueno of the Department of the Interior Local Government described the summit as a gathering of ARMM LGU heads to discuss solutions to challenges facing the region. “Let us all erase those negative perceptions in the region, ipakita natin na kaya din mamuno ng ARMM,” Sec. Sueno said.

President Rodrigo Duterte, when he visited the ARMM’s seat recently, said he will personally attend to the needs of the region and that he will improve the Moro land.

“Matindi ang passion ni President Duterte sa ARMM,” Secretary Sueno said.

Atty. Laisa Alamia, ARMM executive secretary, discussed the region’s development framework. She also told the participants that the programs should go down to the grassroots level.

“Before 2012, the ARMM faced many difficulties. The region was tagged as the election cheating capital of the country, no monitoring of projects, no program funds, and palakasan system in the hiring of employees,” Atty. Alamia said.

Hery Siraji, municipal planning and development coordinator of Luuk town in Sulu, said that the summit inspires every participant to strive and continue to work for the development of the communities in the region.

On Wednesday afternoon, the participants held a dialogue with national government agencies. “I hope this summit will be a successful one and after we fully implement the projects and programs for the people in the region, ARMM will (no longer be) the poorest region,” Secretary Sueno said. (Bureau of Public Information)

(By JC-MPF with PR from Bureau of Public Information – ARMM)

Duterte inaugurates Mega Drug Rehabilitation Center

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (November 30, 2016) - President Rodrigo Duterte led the inauguration of the mega Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (DATRC) at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija on Tuesday, November 29, as part of the administration's efforts to solve drug problem in the country.



In his speech, President Duterte said he would fulfill his campaign promise to eliminate illegal drugs and create a safer environment for the Filipinos.

"Let me warn you, drugs is a very virulent agent in any society. The campaign against drug will continue ‘till the last day of my term. I will not stop until the last drug pusher is out of the street and the last drug lord or king killed," he said.



The President said the drug lords have invested on the lives and sanity of the Filipinos.

"Kaya maraming property, mga hotel, barko, lahat na nandiyan sa kanila," Duterte said.



He said there will be no let up in the campaign against illegal drugs and the only compromise is for the illegal drug users and pushers to surrender.



"The only compromise that’s acceptable to me is you surrender," Duterte said.

"If you continue, I said, you might end losing not only your funds but your life," he added.



Duterte meanwhile thanked Chinese philanthropist Huang Rulun who donated the first large scale drug rehabilitation center in the country, which can accommodate 10,000 drug addicts.



For his part, Huang stated that the donation was his way of showing support to the administration’s war against drugs and as a sign of goodwill for the President’s efforts to strengthen the country’s ties and friendly relations with China.



Huang is an honorary chairman of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Association of the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (FFCAP) and chairman of the board of directors  of Century Golden Resources Group.

During the event, the President unveiled the marker of the rehabilitation center together with Huang and the administration’s top officials.



DATRC is located in Fort Magsaysay, a military camp that occupies a land area of hectares divided by four zones. It has a total construction area of 60,000 square meters with 172 building units.



Huang first met with the President  in Davao last June 28 before he donated an amount of about P1.4 billion to construct two drug rehabilitation centers inside Fort Magsaysay.

In expressing his appreciation for the assistance extended by Huang to the government, the President stressed that those whom he consider as the country’s allies should also help him solve the country’s drug problem instead of criticizing his administration in its war against drugs.

In his speech, the President also mentioned the ambush that happened in Lanao del Sur wherein seven members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) and two soldiers were wounded. The PSG personnel were part of the advance team of the President who is set to fly to Marawi City on Wednesday to visit wounded soldiers fighting the Maute group.



Duterte said he would push through with his visit despite ongoing conflict in the province. PND

(By MPF with PR from PIA 9)

3 ASG dead as JTF Sulu intensifies its campaign in the province

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Nov. 29, 2016)- Three (3) terrorists belonging to the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed in a clash with soldiers in Capual Island, Omar, Sulu, Southern Philippines Monday afternoon, military official said.

Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu Information Officer Col. Rodrigo Gregorio disclosed that operating troops of 11th Scout Ranger Company and Scout Ranger Cl-198 encountered about 30 ASG that lasted for 25 minutes.

Troops recovered the body a slain ASG member. Local residents revealed that ASG carried away 2 cadavers and saw several wounded companion.

Gregorio added that the government troops incurred no casualty and also recovered three (3) pump boats (two (2) Junkung type double engine and one (1) single engine wooden boat) being utilized by the ASG, one (1) garand rifle, ammunition, a solar panel and motor vehicle battery, Improvised Explosive Device (IED) components; and documents. The three pumpboats were turned over to the Naval Task Group Sulu for proper disposition.

Col. Jesus Manangquil, the newly installed commander of Joint Task Force Sulu said, "The successful military operation was a result of the cooperation of the people of Sulu in our campaign against the ASG and their evil deeds". 

"Our soldiers are motivated by a strong public and stakeholders' support and are determined to continue to pursue the ASG until it is destroyed and until all hostages are rescued" Col Mananquil also said.

"We will not stop until the scourge of the ASG will be finally put to a complete stop. We will prevail as we have a reinvigorated cooperation of the people of Sulu who are suffering due to the existence of these barbaric bandits", Col Manangquil concluded.

ARMM to hold 3rd LGU summit Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Cotabato City (November 28, 2016) – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will conduct the 3rd Local Government Unit (LGU) Summit geared towards regional development, from November 30 to December 1 in Davao City.

Sharifa Pearlsia A. Dans, assistant regional secretary of the ARMM’s Interior and Local Government department (DILG-ARMM) said President Rodrigo Duterte will be the summit’s guest of honor.

“President Duterte, during his visit here at the region’s seat, reiterated that he will personally handle the ARMM,” Dans said.

A total of 116 municipal mayors with their planning officers, two city mayors, five provincial governors, and members of the 9th regional legislative assembly are expected to participate in the two-day summit.

To be held in coordination with the DILG national office, this year’s summit carries the theme “Pagkamulat, Pagbabago, Pag-Unlad”.

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio of Davao City is expected to be present during the summit's opening program. “The two-day event is actually a development summit, the activities which are dialogues and workshops are geared towards development,” Dans said.

The summit will be a venue to facilitate dialogue on current issues at the local level and secure the commitment of the LGUs in improving or scaling up their good governance standing and eventually to initiate plans for national and regional programs prioritization.

To set the tone of the summit on the first day, ARMM Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia will discuss the region’s development framework, followed by the state of local governance that will be delivered by DILG-ARMM Secretary Atty. Noor Hafizullah Abdullah.

There will also be a presentation of ARMM and Local Development Investment Program for the year 2017 as well as workshops on priority programs, activities, and projects.

Local chief executives will also have dialogues with officials of national government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of Public Works and Highways, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council.

President Duterte and DILG Secretary Ismael Sueno are expected to be present on the second day of the summit. The President, as the guest of honor, will deliver his keynote address.

“Since it is the first time that the president is handling the ARMM, we look forward to more local chief executives who would be aligned with the administration in terms of development,” Dans said. (Bureau of Public Information)

(By JC-MPF with PR from Bureau of Public Information – ARMM)

53IB encountered Ambol Group, lawless element leader killed

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (November 28, 2016) - At about 1:35 PM of November 26, 2016, operating troops of Charlie Company, 53^rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion, 1^st Infantry, (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army while conducting Law Enforcement Operations at Sitio Balaisan, Brgy East Migpulao, Dinas, ZDS encountered more or less ten (10) fully armed men members of AMBOL group, a lawless elements that resulted to a Firefight which lasted for about fifteen (15) minutes, military official said.

The troops bravely assaulted the enemy position despite the rough terrain conditions (bakawan and swampy) which lead to recovered one (1) unidentified body, one (1) M16 rifle bearing a serial number RP011670 with three (3) magazines, one in (1) short and two in (2) long that contains sixty-six (66) live ammos, hammocks, two (2) backpacks having personal belongings, however no casualty on government side.

The said body later identified as Norhan Ambol aka NHO/BUNGI, leader of AMBOL group (LLEs) as verified by the locals and confirmed by the Local Government Unit of Dinas, Zamboanga del Sur.

The suspected leader Norhan Ambol aka NHO/BUNGI is the TOP MOST WANTED PERSON on ILLEGAL DRUGS and the 2^nd most wanted person in whole region IX for 2015. He has standing warrant of arrest under CC 1643-D (Direct Assault), CC 12-086 (Murder) and CC 11-077 (Illegal Possession of Firearms).

Norhan Ambol aka NHO/BUNGI led the ambush incident against Bravo Company, this unit last 21 November 2016 and which the pursuing troops of this battalion encountered on the same day. He and his group are also infamous in spreading terror for their gun-for-hire and extortion activities to include series of killings in the Municipality of Dinas, Zamboanga del Sur.

Operating troops, who encountered the said armed group, under 2LT OLIVER CARMEN, carried the cadaver of aka NHO/BUNGI, towards Brgy. East Migpulao, Dinas, ZDS to link up with the troops of LTC VIRGILIO C HAMOS JR, the Battalion Commander of 53IB, 1LT MARK LESTER A PULAY, the Operations Officer, and civilian asset to validate the identity of the body. Also present were Hon Belman Mantos- Provincial Board Member at the same time the Chairman of Provincial Peace and Order Committee of ZDS; Hon Mayor Ricky Chavez and Hon Vice Mayor Eleazer Asoy of Dinas, ZDS. Upon confirmation of the identity, said troops proceeded to Dinas Municipal Police Station to turn-over the said cadaver.

                                                                                       

This is a product of the relentless efforts of 53^rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion in pursuing these armed group in ensuring peace and order in the Province of Zamboanga del Sur.

As what the Battalion Commander of 53IB - LTC VIRGILIO C HAMOS JR said “Our efforts does not end here. I and all the officers and men of the Matapat Battalion will continue to support the Provincial LGU in pursuing a more peaceful, drug-free, and progressive Zamboanga del Sur.”

Dinas, ZamboSur peace and order stable

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Nov. 28, 2016) - The residents that recently fled from their homes has already returned as of today after military and police officials have declared the peace and order status stable, Dinas OIC Mayor Felicito Chavez disclosed.

Mayor Chavez said that the evacuation happened last Monday Nov.21 due to military and Police operations after the members of the army's 53rd IB boarded military vehicle were ambush 8:45AM Monday at Purok 4 Brgy. Guiniculalay, Dinas of this province.

As a result one (1) army officer killed and three (3) others were wounded wherein two (2) soldiers including one (1) CAFGU members while on their way to the place to establish detachment in the said barangay. Army's 53rd IB Commanding Officer Col. Vergelio Hamos identified the 3 wounded as army CPL Rey Jaynald Dagundol and PFC Reynaldo Labyaga and a CAFGU member Joyce Rey Bala.

Col Hamos also identified the lawless group responsible of the ambush as 'AMBOL Group', the top 1 most wanted criminal group in this province.

Meanwhile, Mayor Chavez took his oath on Nov. 17, 2016 as OIC Mayor following DILG order after Mayor Welfredo Asoy was dismissed from his office by the Ombudsman due to corruption of unliquidated cash advances while he was a mayor on 2007.

Military conducts operation against LTG Maute Group

By Jong Cadion

Zamboanga City (November 26, 2016)- The recent action of the lawless Maute Group in occupying an abandoned portion of Butig Municipality has driven the people from other areas of the town to flee their homes, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Major Filemon I. Tan Jr. disclosed that this prompted the immediate conduct of military operations focused on dislodging the lawless group. Two (2) soldiers were slightly wounded while Eleven (11) members of Maute Group were killed and at least Five (5) wounded.

Tan also said that the group has reportedly raised the ISIS flag which was expected since they have long been professing allegiance to the foreign terror group. This is still part of the Maute Group’s agenda in courting support and encouraging similar minded individuals to support ISIS.

The AFP will continue to frustrate their sinister objective as was manifested by the military’s forthwith and continuing action in preventing the situation from escalating or spilling to other areas, Tan added.

POE WANTS SEXUAL HARASSMENT VIA NEW TECH PUNISHED

November 24, 2016 - A legislative initiative to combat all forms of sexual harassment has been put forward in the Senate, as Sen. Grace Poe filed a measure expanding the definitions of criminal acts against women that would include those committed with the use of technology and in public places and creating internal mechanisms to address sexual harassment in the workplace and in educational institutions.

Poe filed Senate Bill No. 1254 or the proposed Expanded Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 2016 that seeks to repeal the old law—Republic Act (RA) No. 7877 or the Philippine Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995—which is limited in terms of prosecuting sexual harassment, especially against women.

“Sexual harassment is undoubtedly a pervasive barrier to the exercise of one’s sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. The existing law has its limitations that deter victims to report criminal and reprehensible acts. This proposal seeks to correct those limitations and expand the definitions so this form of violence against women is eliminated,” said Poe, who filed the measure as the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on Nov. 25.

Poe lamented that forms of sexual harassment—most commonly in public places—are not covered under RA No. 7877 and are only prosecuted as Acts of Lasciviousness or Unjust Vexation under the Revised Penal Code, where penalties to be meted out are substantially less than the cost of actually filing a case.

Under the proposed legislation, sexual harassment is defined as an unwelcome or unwanted act or series of verbal and non-verbal acts and requests for sexual favors, including those which are committed online or through the use of computers or similar devices such as mobile phones, and tablets, which are lewd or sexually suggestive, and are degrading, offensive or humiliating to one’s dignity or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for the persons affected.

The measure also provides for internal mechanisms that will address sexual harassment in the workplace and in educational institutions that would investigate and decide on complaints within 10 days, protect victims from retaliation, and guarantee confidentiality.

Local government units are likewise mandated to adopt anti-sexual harassment efforts in their jurisdiction.

Jail time ranging from six months up to nine years and fines of up to P100,000 are imposed upon unlawful acts committed under the proposal.

In 2016, a survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations in Quezon City, which has imposed strict penalties against harassment in public places, found that women were the most vulnerable to sexual harassment, with three out of five women having experienced such.

Further, 70 percent of said incidents were committed by total strangers and 58 percent were experienced in public streets, roads, and narrow streets. Of the sampling population of 400 female and 400 male residents, half of the women surveyed said they had done nothing after the incident, while 20 percent of them were overcome with fear.

“We should empower women to fight sexual harassment on all fronts in protecting the basic human rights of every Filipino citizen," Poe said.

Poe filed the measure in response to growing concerns that the lack of established mechanisms makes it easier for perverts to commit unlawful and immoral acts against women in public places and with the aid of information and communications technology. The proposal was patterned after several local ordinances, including those of Quezon City and Davao City, Civil Service Commission rules, and the Model Law on Sexual Harassment drafted jointly by the Johns Hopkins University (JHU), JHU-School of Advanced International Studies, and global human security organization The Protection Project. #

(By Jong Cadion with PR)

Interfaith led the MWP 2016 Celebration in Pagadian City

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (November 24, 2016) - The Pagadian City-Zamboanga del Sur Interfaith Forum Solidarity and Peace will once again spearhead the annual week-long celebration of Mindanao Week of Peace (MWP) 2016 Wednesday November 23 and to be culminated during the celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 2016.

Ibrahim 'Bong' Balimbingan, this year 2016 MWP chairman of the steering committee said that the celebration is the 16th year after the Presidential Proclamation No 127 by then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on November 2000. This year's celebration carrying the theme "Respecting and Protecting Life: A Celebration of the Filipino Spirit".

Balimbingan disclosed that the week-long celebration program showcasing different series of activities started at 2pm with a press conference hosted by the Police Provincial Office headed by Provincial Director Senior Supt. Sofronio P. Ecaldre who dicussed the status of Peace and Order in this city and province including the ongoing War against Illegal Drugs and followed immediately by a Candle Lighting and simple program at 5pm in front of Rizal Park, City Hall Complex in this city.

The candle lighting is also in collaboration with the celebration of the 7th year Maguindanao Massacre that were jointly hosted by National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) Pagadian City Chapter, ZamboSur-Pagadian City Press Club Inc. (ZPPI), Amnesty International (AIPh) Pagadian Group Region 9-B and the members of Interfaith.

The participating organizations had read their respective statement regarding their stand on the situation of the Maguindanao massacre especially the protection of some witnesses of the incident that were killed and the delayed of justice given to the victims and the demand to stop impunity of killing journalists in pursuit of public service to the Filipino people in the Philippine media industry. While the Amnesty International also strongly demand the present administration to respect human rights and passing of Freedom Of Information bill or law (FOI), and also the local press club and the interfaith has the same statement of support.

Joining also the MWP activities were the members of Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society (CBCS), Ummah Fi Salam (UFS), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Business Community and National and Local Gov't Agencies, and different schools, he said.

He said that one of the highlights from the series of activities of MWP is the community dialogue that reduces criminalities and personal conflict like family or clan feud (Rido) participated by the multi-sectoral group including Muslim and Christian leaders, Local Government Units (LGUs) of the city, PNP’s municipal chief of police from 26 municipalities of this province and this city, Army’s 53^rd Infantry Battalion and DILG.

DENR IX Envi Quiz kicks off Climate Change Consciousness Week in ZamPen

DENR-9 Regional Youth Desk Officer Roservirico A. Tan (rightmost) awards the cash prize, trophies and medals to Zamboanga del Norte National High Schoo for winning the Regional Inter-High School Environmental Quiz 2016. With him are project partners Jun Berberio (4^th from left) of the Environmental Management Bureau, Cyrene Mayormita (3^rd from left) of the Department of Education and Marianne Tapales (2^nd from right) of JCI Yllana.

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Nov. 22, 2016) – Zamboanga del Norte National High School (ZDNNHS) emerged as the champions for the first ever Inter-High School Environmental Quiz 2016 conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources IX in partnership with the Department of Education and JCI Yllana in Bamboo Garden Hotel, Dipolog City.

Pagadian City Science High School (PagSci) and Andres Bonifacio College Junior High School (ABC-High School) won 2^nd and 3^rd place, respectively.

Zach Nonaillada, Ringo Sta Ana and Jose Agapito Cruz represented ZDNNHS; Jan Pol Dosdos, Rachelle Albaracin and Leonard John Corpuz represented PagSci; while, Douglas Marimon, Anne Margarette Cabalida and Neem Vivien Acama represented ABC-High School.

Envi Quiz winners received medals and trophy with P10,000, P5,000 and P3,000 in cash for the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place respectively.

DENR IX Regional Director Arleigh J. Adorable said, “The Envi Quiz is a collaborative effort to creatively showcase the knowledge and awareness of the youth in environmental issues through a friendly competition among high school students and create a strong public awareness on government-initiated, particularly of the DENR, programs and projects that aim for the conservation and preservation of the country’s environment and natural resources.”

The activity is in consonance with the November environmental celebrations of the National Environmental Awareness Month (NEAM), National Clean Air Month (NCAM) and the Climate Change Consciousness Week, which is celebrated on November 21-25, with the joint theme, “Green Schools… Build Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Communities.”

The NEAM and NCAM is celebrated  pursuant to Republic Act No. 9512 and Proclamation No. 1109 series of 1997, respectively. Meanwhile, the CCCW is celebrated in pursuant to Proclamation No. 1667 series of 2008.

 

Highlights of the Regional Inter-High School Environmental Quiz 2016 

The Envi Quiz was participated by a total of forty-eight students and sixteen teacher/advisers from various schools across Zamboanga Peninsula. (MT DENRIX-RPAO)

(By Jong Cadion with PR)

Ten (10) ASG members killed as troops strike

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (November 18, 2016) – Heavy gunfire ensued between operating troops of the 35th Infantry Battalion under the Joint Task Force Sulu and members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) as the military continues to intensify the conduct of focused military operations at Sitio Dyundangan, Brgy Buhanginan, Patikul, Sulu, Southern Philippines, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr. disclosed that the troops from 35IB led by MAJ SADDAMA encountered more or less 150 fully armed ASG led by ASG Leader Radullan Sahiron. Firefight lasted for almost 45 minutes wherein the enemy withdrew.

Tan said that the troops had four (4) killed and nine (9) wounded in action, while the ASG suffered ten (10) Killed (3 Body Counts) and undetermined wounded based on ground units and intelligence reports.

Immediately, indirect fire support were delivered by 105mm Howitzers while other units conducted pursuit and blocking operations. JTF SULU is facilitating Casualty Evacuation and directed S76 air ambulance to conduct CASEVAC from Sulu to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City. All units were directed to establish checkpoints in their respective areas, he added.

Despite the casualties incurred, the military continues to conduct combat operations against the ASG to destroy the bandits, rescue the kidnap victims and deter terror attacks perpetrated by the bandit group in the province of Sulu and possibly in other provinces as well.

ARMM to offer free legal counselling on Saturday

Cotabato City (November 17, 2016) – The Office of the Attorney General in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OAG-ARMM) will offer free legal advice to the public on Saturday, November 19, inside the Office of the Regional Governor compound in this city.

The free legal counselling will be one of the highlights of the ARMM’s 27th founding anniversary. Atty. Al-Rashid Balt of the OAG-ARMM said the lawyers will provide free counsel and advice to local residents as well as those from neighboring areas.
Residents seeking confidential legal advice can speak with lawyers under the supervision of the OAG-ARMM.

“The lawyers will be on hand to provide information and we will prioritize clients who cannot afford the service of a private counsel,” Atty. Balt said. He pointed out that OAG-ARMM will accommodate as many individuals who need legal advice.

This year's free legal counselling carries the theme ‘Libreng Serbisyong Legal Handog para sa Bangsamoro’. It will start at 8:00 in the morning and will last until 5:00 in the afternoon.

As part of the anniversary celebration, the regional government has lined up several activities this month and in December.

Among these activities are: a food festival featuring cuisines of the different major Moro tribes in the ARMM; a film showing; cooking showdown; sports festival; search for the ARMM’s Rajah and Ranee; financial literacy forum; cultural presentation; regional governors’ ‘peacetivity’; People’s Day; week of peace; local government unit’s summit; and ‘Gabi ng Parangal’. (Bureau of Public Information)

(By JC-MPF with PR from Bureau of Public Information - ARMM)

Ginoong Dapitan City Contest to highlight the kick-off 453rd Founding Anniversary Celebration

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (November 17, 2016) – Following the very successful celebration of the Tourism Month in Dapitan City last September this year which had drawn a mammoth number of tourists, the local government again lined up several activities to celebrate its 453rd Founding Anniversary by Datu Pagbuaya.

The Local Gov't of Dapitan City thru the City Tourism Office will be conducting the Ginoong Dapitan City Muscle Mania 2016 that will highlight the celebration of their 453rd Founding Anniversary on Nov. 20, 2016, Dapitan City Official said.

Dapitan City Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong said the Ulang Festival was the opening activity started on November 5 which was held in Barangay Opao. The festival focused in the need for barangay folks living along the river to take care of the marine life found underneath as it already served many generations even from the time Dapitan was discovered. Buntis Congress will also be held on Friday, November 18 at the Dapitan City Cultural and Sports Center.

Agolong also said that the Ginoong Dapitan is an annual activity for the month of November during their city founding anniversary to attract more tourists to visit the city during the occasion.

Agolong added that the Ginoong Dapitan 2016 Muscle Mania is set to rock Dapitan City on Sunday, November 20, 2016 in the same venue back to back with a mini concert featuring Jeziel Dimagnaong, a Pilipinas Got Talent Finalist with Leanny Elli of LightGreen Band. The Muscle Mania is a tribute to Datu Pagbuaya who was said to be a valiant warrior who had a properly sculpted physique.

The event will be attended by Mark Glenn del Rosario, Mr. Philippines 2014 who also won Mr. Philippines International 2014, Queen of Queens Switzerland, 2 Swiss Models, Beauty Queens and a Talent Manager.

Agolong disclosed that the Ginoong Dapitan Contest is to be participated by at least 10 selected young men contestants coming from different places in Zamboanga Peninsula to compete on the evening of Nov. 20.

The prize for the winner will receive cash of P10K plus Trophy and a privilege to become a casual employee assign at her office for a year if the winner is willing to avail, Agolong said.

The Human Resource for Health of the Department of health initiated this activity. HRH consists of Nurse Deployment Project (NDP), RHMPP or Rural Health Midwife Placement Program, PHA or Public Health Associate and a Medical Technologist of Dapitan City Health Office, the City Tourism officer said.

She said that the Local Government Unit of Dapitan City is always thankful for the usual support of Smart Communications, UNILAB, RDH Entertainment and Frontier Aviation in this endeavor.