DAR-ARMM confers 237 land ownership certificates to CARP beneficiaries in Siasi, Sulu

COTABATO CITY (December 27, 2016) – A total of 237 Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) were conferred today to beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) in the town of Siasi in Sulu.

In a ceremony led by regional Agrarian Reform Secretary Amihilda Sangcopan, agrarian reform partners from Tulling Farm Workers Multi-Purpose Cooperative of the Tulling Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) formally received their land ownership certificates.

Local conflicts arising from land disputes due to ambiguous boundaries of individual lots hampered cooperative activities and thus exacted a toll on the area’s productivity in the past.

DAR-ARMM’s initiative of conducting a relocation survey, erecting monuments leading to the turnover of CLOA is a landmark intervention by the regional government in solving agrarian reform issues in the community.

Provided for under Republic Act 6657, or the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law, CLOA is intended to promote social justice among the marginalized, specifically workers in the agricultural sector, through land tenure.

It is a legal document that serves as an evidence of ownership, subject to restrictions, and secures the tenure of the farmers to the agricultural land they till. Among its basic restriction is that the beneficiary could not sell, transfer, or donate the land awarded to him over a period of 10 years after he received the certificate.

The land area covered by Tulling ARC used to be owned by Filagro Corp. before it was covered by CARP in 1991. The farm workers then were considered as agricultural laborers who do not have the rights over the land they till.

The Tulling ARC is situated in the northern part of the island municipality of Siasi. The town is composed of five barangays namely Tulling, Siundoh, Manta, North Manta, Minapan. (Bureau of Public Information)

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

Police, military on triple red alert in ZamboSur

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 27, 2016) - The personnel of Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office and the Army's 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division troops were on 'Triple Red Alert' and now implementing tight security measures in this city and the entire province following the security threats from the terrorist group, Police and military Officials said.

Zamboanga del Sur Police Prov'l Director Senior Supt. Sofronio P. Ecaldre disclosed that the declaration of Triple Red Alert was the recommendation of the National Security Council following the result of the intelligence report of bomb threats and possible harassment of terrorist groups.

Ecaldre said that during the Prov'l Peace and Order Council (POC) meeting conducted recently it was strongly recommended for more police and military visibility in the public places especially in the Public Market, City Plaza, Integrated Bus Terminals, Malls and Churches during New Year.

Ecaldre added that the personnel from the City and Municipal Police Stations will do the security implementations in their respective areas while the Prov'l Public Safety Battalion together with the Army's 53IB will also conducted of mobile random check points along the national highways.

City Chief of Police Supt. Michael Palermo has also warned the public not to bring with them backpack when going to the City Plaza and Malls for security reasons.

Also included in the monitoring is the implementation of banning of all types of firecrackers.

CUESHE in Dapitan on the 29th

Office of the City Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong

 By Jong Cadion

DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte (December 27, 2016) - Following the success of Pasko Sa Nayon wherein the current administration is giving out free meals for 9 consecutive days before Christmas and the 3rd Edition of a Night Motocross back to back with a Concert last night in Dapitan where a huge crowd of an estimated more than 10k people converge at DAMPA, Dapitan City to witness the exhilarating and unparalleled fun of riders flying with their machines, another big event is set to rock the city on December 29, 2016 at the Dapitan City Cultural and Sports Center.

9-Day Free Meal

CUESHE with its band members together with its crew and entourage will be visiting Dapitan City to perform in its year end party. Front acts are to be performed by Zachary Agolong and Alcher Manogura, Iza Amilasan and Trisha Ang of the DMC Duo and Arnold Dulalas. Disc jockeys are Jeff Caram and Buddy Cagbabanua.

Mayor Rosalina G. Jalosjos through her City Administrator Mr. Wilberth Magallanes approved this event as this will surely give Dapitanons a light feeling and a natural high listening to the music of Cueshe that has been part of every household day to day living.

Vice Mayor Ruben E. Cad and all the City Councilors are inviting each and every happy soul who just want to have fun to come and enjoy with them on December 29, 2016.

 

Night Motocross

Night Motocross

Night Motocross

Night Motocross

Wounded Abu Sayyaf sub-leader captured in Zamboanga City

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (December 27, 2016) - Operatives of the Western Mindanao Command, together with elements of the Police Station 5, Zamboanga City Police Office conducted joint law enforcement operations resulting in the capture of Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader Hairulla Asbang aka Ahadi yesterday evening at the Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center in Zamboanga City, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr disclosed that the arrest was made by virtue of warrant of arrest for Kidnapping with Murder and Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention issued by Branch 10, 9th Judicial Region, Dipolog City and for Kidnapping with Homicide issued by Branch 34, 11th Judicial Region in connection with the Samal kidnapping case.

Tan added that Asbang was admitted at the said hospital at 7:30 a.m of December 26, 2016 for medical treatment of his gunshot wound, which was incurred during a previous encounter with government troops in Sulu. Also arrested is a certain aka Jaber who accompanied the subject ASG sub-leader.

The arrested ASG sub-leader is currently under tight watch by our troops and PNP personnel in the hospital while undergoing custodial debriefing. Appropriate legal procedures are also underway, Tan said.

       

The military continues to support the police in the intensified conduct of law enforcement operations to expedite the arrest of Abu Sayyaf members.

Celebration of National Climate Change

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - Climate Change Consciousness week was conducted by Maranao People Development Center, Inc (MARADECA) in partnership with Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Local Government of Bubong, Lanao del Sur.

The 2 day activity was conducted on November 28-29, 2016 at Municipal Gymnasium, Brgy. Montian, Bubong,Lanao del Sur. A total of 700 individuals have participated the said event.

The 1st day activity started with a parade (walk for green) and was participated by the DENR; MARADECA; BRAC Communities; People Organizations of Ompongan o mga Bae sa Ranao (OBAERA), Ompongan Taribasok sa Ranao (OTR) and Maranao Youth for Peace and Development (MYPD); Local Government Unit; and Barangay Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Bubong, Lanao del Sur.

Another activity was the opening program along with the environmental messages from the different stakeholders including: Local Government Unit, PENR, MARADECA, ULAMA, PILG, and PDRRMO. There is also a film showing and seminar on climate change in the afternoon.

On the 2nd day, an orientation and actual tree planting was conducted. This initiative is supported by CARITAS Australia.

Every one realized the effect and impact of climate change. PENRO Cosain Abbas emphasized the importance of symbiotic relationship between environment and the human. Both are benefiting and helping each other.

Human needs more trees in the forest for survival and the same with the environment. Aleem Talha Ampatua cited that protection of environment is also a faith.

The ABC president Al-Faisal Munder also shared about his initiatives on reforestation and expressed that cooperation with action is the utmost needed to prevent flooding and changing of climate in their municipality.

(By Jong Cadion with PR from Candido Jr. Aparece)

Ceremonial Entrustment of firearms and Send-off for New Tabak Troopers

Hon Anamel C. Olagario, Mun Mayor of  Ipil, Zamboanga  Sibugay Province, hand over the firearms to the new privates during the ceremony.

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 21, 2016) - 285 new soldiers of the 1^st Infantry (TABAK) Division have been entrusted with firearms during a ceremony Tuesday morning at Division Grandstand, Kuta Major Cesar L Sang-an, Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur, military official said.

Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) Information Officer LTC Benedicto S. Manquiquis disclosed that the Ceremonial Entrustment of firearms to the new soldiers is the Philippine Army’s means to institutionalize the instilment of nationalism and service-oriented attitude among soldiers upon their entry to the service. The most important part of the ceremony is the symbolic entrustment of firearms by stakeholders who represent the different sectors of the society which symbolizes that the people bestow their trust and confidence to the new soldiers to carry firearms as tool to perform their mandate and as a symbol of life of service.

 

BGEN DEMY T TAJARES AFP, ADC, 1ID, PA, give certificate to Hon Anamel C Olagario during the ceremony. 

Rev Fr Miguel D Cahanap, DCP, hand over the firearms to the new privates during the ceremony

Manquiquis also said that several civilian stakeholder present imparted their wisdom to the new soldiers about their responsibilities as protector of the state and the people. The invited stakeholders were came from different religious organizations, and government and non-government organizations. The event was also witnessed by families and friends of the new soldiers.

Hon Anamel C Olagario, Mun Mayor of  Ipil, Zamboanga  Sibugay Province, delivering his message during the ceremony

Mayor Anamel C. Olegario, Municipal Mayor of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay Province, in her message, she emphasized the responsibility of the soldiers to protect and serve the people. She lauded the vast improvement of the military as an institution in terms of ensuring that the new soldiers has the right perspective on their military career in service to the nation. She expressed her gratitude to the Division and emphasized the dictum “civilian supremacy over the military”, that the subordination of the military to civilian authority is a vital part of the mechanism of a democratic institution. She mentioned the positive feedback from the stakeholders on the accomplishment of the military in achieving peace and development in the society.

Crew members of Philippine fishing boat missing on Sulu waters

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 21, 2016) - Crew members of FB Ramona 2, a service-type vessel owned by Ramona Fishing Corporation, were declared missing at 2:30am yesterday off of Celebes Sea in the nearby Province of Sulu, Southern Philippines, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Major Filemon I. Tan Jr disclosed that the missing were Noel Besconde, the captain; Reyjim Rocabo, the Marine Diesel Mechanic (MDM); and crew members Roy Ramos and Roel Liones, residents of Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.

Accordingly, the last contact of the sister ship, FB Melissa 2, with FB Ramona 2 was at 3am of the same day.

FB Melissa 2 proceeded to the location of her sister ship at around 5am and found all crew members missing. The VHF Radio/GPS was stolen while other belongings are intact, Tan added.

The Joint Task Force Sulu already deployed forces to conduct search and the Naval Task Group Sulu was instructed to initiate appropriate action.

Meanwhile, the Joint Task Forces Tawi-Tawi and Basilan were also alerted to conduct patrols. Intel units are currently validating the said report.

ARMM okays P10.1B worth of infra projects in 2017

Cotabato City (December 16, 2016) – A total of P10.1 billion worth of infrastructure projects are expected to be implemented in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 2017. 

Governor Mujiv Hataman and regional legislators signed Public Works Act of 2017 on Thursday, December 15, that authorizes the appropriation of P10.1 billion for infrastructure projects in ARMM. The region’s Public Works and Highways department (DPWH-ARMM), through its district engineering offices, will implement the approved projects.

These cover construction of major roads and bridges, water supply, seaports, shores, drainage canal, flood control, strategic infrastructure projects in support of tourism, agriculture, peace and security, public health or sanitation, and other socio-economic development activities and those in conflict- or calamity-affected areas.

The appropriation will be effective even beyond Fiscal Year 2017 until fully released, obligated, and disbursed for the purpose. The infrastructure funds will be properly distributed to the five provinces and two cities in the region.

“We will make sure that all the provinces will receive development projects from the regional government,” Gov. Hataman said. DPWH-ARMM Secretary Engr. Don Mustapha Loong noted that the implementation of the projects will be undertaken through competitive public bidding.

To effectively oversee the projects, the Regional Project Monitoring Committee, inclusive of the legislative assembly members or representatives, will conduct periodic checking and validation of the status of project implementation based on the approved program of work, project specifications, and time frame of completion. (Bureau of Public Information)

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

ARMM remains last on list of HIV-infected regions in PH

Cotabato City (Dec. 14, 2016) – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) remains at the bottom of the list among regions with cases of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).  

This comes as the region’s prevalence rate on the disease and infection stayed still at less than one percent by end of October this year. Despite these figures, the Infectious Diseases Cluster (IDC) of the ARMM Department of Health (DOH) warned citizens not to be complacent. 

“Whether we like it or not, we have HIV cases in ARMM,” Soraida Amilil, Cluster Head of IDC said. Still, it is important for the public to be properly informed for their prevention and cure, Amilil said, noting the region is targeting zero HIV/AIDS case each year. 

As of October this year, 13 cases of HIV have been reported while none emerged as an AIDS case. Nineteen percent of the HIV cases come from the heterosexual demographics, while 81% come from the homosexual demographics, mainly from men who have sex with men. 

Dr. Usman said ARMM citizens who travel frequently to major urban centers are more vulnerable to HIV infection. DOH recently reported that 25 people in the Philippines are diagnosed with HIV on a daily basis. 

In 2014, the region has reported two AIDS cases, while seven were reported with HIV. Since 1984, the region’s Health department has reported a total of 76 positive cases of HIV while 11 were reported to have led to AIDS.

None of these cases were diagnosed within the region as the provincial health units still lack social hygiene clinics for HIV diagnostic testing, hence these cases were referred to regions 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), 10 (Northern Mindanao), and 11 (Davao Region) who have the capability to do the screening. This is about to change in 2017 the IDC of DOH-ARMM noted. 

Amilil said the agency has been working on the establishment of social hygiene clinics in the region to serve as satellite treatment centers for HIV. 

This will be piloted in the province of Tawi-Tawi by 2017, and then in Sulu, being the farthest islands to the mainland. The agency, she added, is currently complying with the requirements set for the treatment centers to be operational by next year. 

DOH-ARMM continues to strengthen its AIDS/HIV Prevention and Control Program through campaigns that aim at educating the public, as well as to eliminate the stigma and discrimination associated with people living with HIV and AIDS. 

Doctors have been reiterating that the virus is not transmittable by merely socializing with them as it only thrives inside the body and cannot be transmitted by mere skin-to-skin contact.

“Hindi ito dapat ikahiya,” Amilil said, noting it is not acquired only through unprotected sexual activities. 90 to 98% of transmission is through blood transfusion, organ transplant, sharing used needles and needle pricks. 

There are also preventive measures for HIV leading to AIDS and this is provided free to people living with HIV and AIDS.  (Bureau of Public Information) 

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

Month-long ARMM anniversary festivities enter final week

Cotabato City (Dec. 13, 2016) – The celebration of the 27th Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Founding Anniversary continues with cultural night competitions scheduled this week at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex (SKCC) at the region’s seat here.

This is the final week of the month-long ‘Pakaradjaan sa ARMM’, launched on November 19. Kicking off this week’s final presentations were colorful dances and wonderful music from the province of Maguindanao that filled the SKCC on Monday night, December 12. Performing songs, drama and at least 12 dances, including ‘Kapeg-Islam’, ‘Kapegkawing’, and ‘Kapamalong-malong’, was an ensemble of around 30 Maguindanaon students and professionals trained by the Kutawato Dance Bureau (KDB).

Accompanying their performances were ethnic musicians who played ‘kulintang’, ‘agong’, ‘gandingan’, and the now venerable ethnic instrument the ‘kutyapi’ played by very few today. Esmail Ahmad, a blind 71-year old man who played the instrument on Mondaynight, is one of only three known players of the kutyapi in Maguindanao and in the region. He is often invited by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts to perform in Manila during special occasions.

Maguindanaons constitute the biggest Muslim group in North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, and South Cotabato – the four provinces constituting the then Cotabato Empire. The word Maguindanao was derived from ‘Maguin’, meaning one who has suffered from flood, and ‘Danao’ meaning flood by lake. The people of Maguindanao, known as the Maguindanaons, are referred to as the “people of the flood plains”.

KDB director and choreographer Arvie Roa Macmud-Sinsuat said she conceptualized the Maguindanaon cultural night in performances that bound together the history and tradition of the locals in a very authentic, creative, and colorful execution. That is why, she said, her ensemble has a high chance of besting out the other competitors this week.

For this year’s Pakaradjaan, the province of Maguindanao is being represented by 21 ARMM agencies, headed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-ARMM) under Regional Secretary Kirby Matalam Abdullah. The province of Maguindanao is the reigning over-all champion in last year’s competitions and it hopes to retain the title this year.

Performing on the night of Tuesday, December 13, at the SKCC is the province of Lanao, followed by the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi respectively, from Wednesday, December 14, until Friday, December 16. The cultural night presentations are part of the celebration of the 2016 Pakaradjaan sa ARMM.

Previous competitions like the Dulang Cultural Parade, Tribal Cuisine Competition, and various sports competitions, were previously held in line with the celebration. The winners of all the competitions will be announced during the closing ceremonies of this year’s Pakaradjaan on Monday, December 19. (Bureau of Public Information)

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

Two Indonesian KV released in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 12, 2016) - Indonesian kidnapped victims Mohammad Nazer and Robin Peter were released by the ASG captors to MNLF Commander Tahir Sali in the nearby province of Indanan, Sulu, Southern Philippines after being pressured by non-stop operations of JTF Sulu and pressure by the MNLF, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr disclosed that at about 11:30 today, the KV’s were initially turned-over by the MILF to Sulu Vice Governor and acting Governor Nurunnisa Tan. Thereafter, the latter in turn handed over the KV’s to Commander JTF Sulu COL JESUS MANANQUIL in Camp Bautista, Bus-Bus Jolo, Sulu. The KV’s are now undergoing medical checkup at KHTB trauma hospital.

Tan added that they are the last two remaining KV’s from the original seven crew men of T/B Charles 00 taken last 22 June 2016 at vicinity sea waters of Simisa, Sulu.

The transport of KV’s from Sulu to Zamboanga City and their subsequent turn over to Indonesian authorities are now being arranged and facilitated of JTF Sulu. 

Intensified operations in Sulu yield 10 ASG killed, six wounded

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 12, 2016) – This morning the operating troops of the 35th Infantry Battalion under the Joint Task Force Sulu conducting focused military operations engaged more or less 150 Abu Sayyaf members led by Sulu ASG top leader Radullan Sahiron and Sub Leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, Yasser Igasan, and Mujer Yadah in the nearby province of Bud Taming, Barangay Kabbontakkas, Patikul, Sulu, Southern Philippines, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr disclosed that the almost two-hour heavy firefight resulted in three (3) soldiers killed and 21 wounded in action (19 slightly wounded due to shrapnel wounds), while 10 ASG were killed and six (6) wounded as confirmed by intel units on the ground and validated by civilians in the area.

Tan also said that fire support and close air support were provided to the engaging troops. Adjacent units also conducted blocking and pursuit operations as casualties were immediately brought to KHTB hospital. Two (2) soldiers needed additional medical attention were airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City.

The JTF Sulu continues to conduct pursuit operations and intensify further the conduct of focused military operations to rescue the remaining kidnap victims and neutralize the ASG in Sulu.

Intensified operations against Sayyafs ongoing in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 11, 2016) - Operating troops of the 35th Infantry Battalion under the Joint Task Force Sulu while conducting focused military operations engaged in an armed confrontation with more or less 150 Abu Sayyaf members led by top leader Radullan Sahiron and Sub Leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, Yasser Igasan, and Mujer Yadah in Bud Taming, Brgy Kabbontakkas, Patikul, Sulu, Southern Philippines Saturday morning, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr. disclosed that the said armed confrontation lasted for an hour and 45 minutes before the Abu Sayyaf withdrew, bringing with them a number of their casualties.

As a result, the government suffered three (3) killed and seventeen (17) wounded in action, while undermined on the ASG.

Fire support and close air support were provided to the engaging troops. Adjacent units also conducted blocking and pursuit operations.

Tan also said that the casualties were immediately extricated from the area of engagement. Fifteen (15) were slightly wounded and were brought to KHTB hospital while two (2) others who needed additional medical attention were airlifted to Zamboanga City for further medical attention at the Camp Navarro General Hospital.

The JTF Sulu continues to conduct pursuit operations and the conduct of focused military operations to neutralize the ASG in Sulu.

ASG leader in Samal kidnapping and cohorts dead, two captured, two missing

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 10, 2016) - The Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) confirms reports by the Sabah authorities on the shootout between Sabah security forces and members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) last Thursday in Lahad Datu in the East of Sabah, Malaysia, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Major Filemon I. Tan Jr disclosed that per validation made by this Command, the shootout resulted in the killing of Abraham Hamid, leader of the Samal kidnapping incident, and two (2) of his cohorts. Two (2) Abu Sayyaf members were also apprehended, identified as Samsung Aljan and Awal Hajal, while two (2) others are missing.

Tan added that Hamid, an ASG spotter, was identified as the leader of the Abu Sayyaf members who were involved in the kidnapping of Robert Hall, John Ridsdel, Kjartan Sekkingstad and Maritess Flor on September 21, 2015 at the Ocean View Resort in Camudmud, Samal City, Davao del Sur. He was also tagged in the kidnapping of four (4) Indonesian crew members of Tugboat Henry.

The said Abu Sayyaf members were prevented by security forces in Sabah from executing their kidnapping plans by engaging them in a surprise shootout. The speed board utilized by the Abu Sayyaf members was sunk during the fight.

The death of Hamid is a big blow to the ASG as it neutralized one of the notorious bandits’ leader and will degrade their capability for spotting and kidnapping victims in the future, Tan concluded.

Dapitan City deputizes tricycle owners, drivers as tour guides, peacekeepers

DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, Dec. 5 (PNA) -- The city government, in coordination with the local police office, has deputized tricycle association members here as acting agents to help strengthen security as well as boost the tourism industry of this city.

Supt. Glenn Dulawan, local police chief, on Monday said that tricycle owners and drivers have undergone road safety and security training to assist them in monitoring and reporting all forms of criminality.

Dulawan said the new deputies would serve as force multipliers of the local police in the maintenance of law and order in this city.

Dulawan said they have also undergone tour guiding seminar to equip them with the knowledge in catering to the needs of the visitors, especially tourists, both domestic and international.

Dulawan said they have come up with the project to ensure the safety of the tourists while visiting this city.

This city is a favorite destination of tourists in the region since it is historically significant as the place where the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, was exiled by the Spaniards for his revolutionary activities.

The famous Dakak Park and Beach Resort and the Fantasy Land, a theme park, are also among the tourist attractions of this city.

Dapitan City, which is known as the “Shrine City in the Philippines” is also becoming known as the “City of Festivals” brought about by the holding of different festivities every month.

Meanwhile, City Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong said preparations are underway for the “Pasko sa Nayon” where food is served for free to residents who attend the dawn mass locally known as “Misa de Gallo.”

The “Pasko sa Nayon” or the “Christmas in the Village” is a program of the city government. (PNA)
NYP/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION/

DILG cites ARMM as most improved region in peace and order, financial administration

Cotabato City (December 7, 2016) – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has been cited as the most improved region in terms of peace and order as well as financial administration.

On Tuesday, December 6, the national government’s Bureau of Local Government Supervision (BLGS), headed by Director Manny Gotis, bestowed awards to regional offices and Seal of Good and Local Governance, or SGLG, to focal persons in a ceremony held in Makati City. BLGS operates under the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

In the awarding ceremony, the ARMM was cited as the most improved region in the areas of peace and order and financial administration. From being a zero passer in SGLG in 2015, the region also scored six SGLG awardees this year, indicating significant improvement in local governance.

Undersecretary for Local Government Austere Panadero personally conferred the awards to the recipients. Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Ismael Sueno delivered his message in the ceremony dubbed ‘Maaasahang Katuwang sa Pamamalakad.’

Noor Hafizullah Abdullah, DILG-ARMM secretary, noted the citations are in “recognition of the (region’s and local government unit awardees’) good performance.” Last year, not one local government unit (LGU) in the region passed the SGLG requirements. “This year, however, the region has six,” Sec. Abdullah said.

The 2016 SGLG awardees in the ARMM are the province of Maguindanao, the city of Lamitan in Basilan, and the towns of North Upi and Parang in Maguindanao, Wao in Lanao del Sur, and Jolo in Sulu.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said good governance practices should be emulated by other LGUs in the region. He urged the region’s LGUs to focus on improving their performances and overall operations in order to the deliver services to their constituents.

The DILG describes the SGLG, also known as ‘Pagkilala sa Katapatan at Kahusayan ng Pamahalaang Lokal,’ as the conferment of a seal to LGUs that adhere to performance criteria, namely, improvements on performance, accountability, transparency, and participation.

These requirements encompass three core assessment areas: Good Financial Housekeeping, Social Protection and Disaster Preparedness, and at least one from the essential assessment areas, namely, Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness, Peace and Order, or Environmental Management.
The most prestigious awards to LGUs echo DILG’s mantra ‘Matino, Mahusay at Maaasahan’. Sec. Abdullah expressed the region’s hope to have more awardees in the region as they continue their commitment as partners for change.

DILG-ARMM Assistant Secretary Sharifa Pearlsia Dans said the region looks forward to double, or even triple, the number of awardees next year. “We cannot thank enough the local chief executives and our provincial, city directors and (other local officials) for their unwavering commitment and participation in the success of this program,” she said.

“Let us continue to spread the seeds of good local governance so that the ARMM constituency would benefit from these efforts,” she added. (Bureau of Public Information)

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

State of ARMM’s ICT 'brighter and better'

COTABATO CITY (December 7, 2016) – The information technology chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) describes the state of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the region as “better and brighter” compared with previous years.

Abdelnur Campong, chief of the ARMM governor’s ICT office, said there were no efforts in establishing ICT in the regional government before 2011.

Now, Campong added, all regional line agencies have their own websites and instituted their database systems even as the ARMM government created an ICT office through an executive order.

These efforts add up to reforms instituted by the administration of ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman since he was appointed as caretaker governor in 2011, and later elected twice in 2013 and in 2016.

The regional government, he said, continues its efforts to further develop and improve ICT in the region. The ARMM held its 1st ICT Summit on Monday, December 5, to make the stakeholders knowledgeable of the latest trends and technology that could be used in the efficient delivery of government services.

“Ang focus natin dito ay pag-improve at pagpapaganda ng serbisyo natin sa ARMM, particularly sa regional government (Our focus here is to improve the services in the ARMM, particularly in the regional government),” Campong said.

The summit gathered all industry stakeholders, especially those from the government and the academe, as well as professionals and students to discuss current trends and challenges facing the ICT sector in the region and in the country.

“We established systems at the office of the ARMM governor such as human resource information system, Electronic New Government Accounting System, Database, Radio-Frequency IDentification, and many other systems,” Campong said.

“Definitely, mas brighter at maganda ang estado ng ICT ngayon ng ARMM kaysa dati (Definitely, we now have brighter and better state of ICT in the region unlike before),” Campong added.

The summit invited five speakers who discussed topics relevant to governance in the regional government. The development and effective integration of technology to government services pave the way to better governance in the region, Campong added.

“Data management ang topics dahil iyon ang kailangan ng region (Data management are the topics because these are what our region needs); how to establish our baseline data to be used in the present and future administrations for decision-making, and program proposal drafting,” Campong said.

Among the partners of the ARMM government in the ICT event were the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Philippine Computer Society Foundation, Trend Micro, Indra Philippines, and Microsoft Philippines. (Bureau of Public Information)

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

Intensified operations against local terrorists ongoing in Lanao del Sur

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (December 07, 2016)-  Amid the intensified conduct of law enforcement operations, elements of the 1^st Scout Ranger Company, 1^st Scout Ranger Battalion encountered more or less 60 members of the Local Terrorist Group in Barangay Sandab, Butig, Lanao del Sur this morning, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr. disclosed that an armed confrontation ensued, resulting in the death of a soldier and wounding of another. As of this press time, the said operation is ongoing.

The military continues to conduct operations to neutralize local terrorists operating in the province of Lanao del Sur.

JTF Sulu sends 11 Platoons of Bayanihan Teams for Talipao and Patikul

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Dec 7, 2016)- Joint Task Force Sulu is sending 11 platoons of Bayanihan Teams to the different Barangays of Patikul and Talipao in the nearby Province of Sulu, Southern Philippines starting Tuesday, military official said.

Joint Task Force Sulu Information Officer Cpt. Jason Roy Mararac disclosed that in a simple ceremony held at Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu, Tuesday, Col Jesus Manangquil Jr the JTF Sulu Commander stressed the importance of partnership between the military and Local Government Units in the area to realize a peaceful and progressive Sulu.

 "We will be there to help our constituents to alleviate their lives and be more fruitful citizens" he also said. 

Bayanihan Team Activity or BTA is a community based program wherein military units are immersed in the barangays to provide assistance such as livelihood, medical and dental care; and others to the communities in partnership with the LGUs, LGAs and NGOs, Mararac concluded.

The activity was also attended by Vice-Mayor Datu Jun Tarsum as representative of Mayor Patikul, ABC President Rudy Yusop representative of Mayor Talipao and some members of Media.

ARMM’s local leaders sign manifesto of unity

Davao City (December 2, 2016) – Government leaders in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) signed a manifesto of unity on Thursday, December 1, signifying their commitment as partners in good governance in the ARMM and heeding the nation’s call for real change.

The manifesto was signed by municipal and city mayors, provincial governors, and members of the regional legislative assembly during the two day 3rd ARMM Local Government Summit, which ended on Thursday at the SM Lanang Premier SMXConvention Center in Davao City.

The document was handed over to President Rodrigo Duterte after Secretary Mike Sueno of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) presented highlights of the summit.

“This summit was organized in response to your directive to upscale the performance of local government leaders in the ARMM,” Secretary Sueno said.

 He said local government leaders will help fight corruption by spending resources properly.

“Ibinigay namin ito kay Presidente dahil ito ay resulta ng dalawang araw na Local Government Summit at ito ay ating commitment patungkol sa terrorism, accountability, criminality and drugs,” ARMM Governor Hataman said.

Stated in the manifesto is the important role of local government officials in pushing for good governance and reforms in the region. Local government leaders, the manifesto said, have made a commitment to fulfill their duties and responsibilities while refraining from activities that are contrary to government’s interest.

They also pledged to ensure quality services to the public and to denounce, in the highest terms, crime and corruption, most especially human rights violations and acts of terrorism. They also expressed support to initiatives and interventions of the National Government towards cohesion and convergence for national development.

“Buo naming ibinigay ang aming suporta atcommitment para mabago ang hindi magandang imahe sa aming lugar,” Kamid Buisan, acting mayor of Talitay town in the province of Maguindanao said. (Bureau of Public Information)

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

ARMM relief operations in Butig ongoing as LGU Summit continues

As local executives gathered in Davao City for the 3rd ARMM Local Government Summit, Butig Mayor Dilanggalen "Jimmy" Pansar chose to remain in his municipality as the military "recovered" most of the barangays that were occupied by the Maute group.

The mayor, however, was represented by other municipal officials from Butig, Lanao del Sur. Among them was Abdul Pansar, Butig's Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator.

According to Pansar, the poblacion of Butig is where the first encounters between the military and the Maute group happened roughly a week ago.

On November 30, the said area was "recovered" by the military, along with most of the other barangays that were affected by the ongoing conflict.

"There are still firefights in the forest areas within the skirts of the municipality, but control in the town proper itself has already been regained" he said.

Pansar, however, is far from at ease.

Regional efforts

As the LGU Summit began in Davao yesterday, ARMM Regional Vice Governor and concurrent DSWD-ARMM Regional Secretary Haroud Al-Rashid Lucman Jr. was in Butig to conduct relief operations in the area. Together with DSWD-ARMM and ARMM's Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team (ARMM HEART), he was assisted by the municipal government of Butig along with the barangay captains in the area.

Lucman noted how the conflict has affected the lives of the people in Butig. "Classes, for one, have been suspended because the schools are currently not functioning," he said.

"People have lost much of their property, especially in barangays such as Bayabao Poblacion where houses were razed to the ground by members of the Maute group," he added. "Some of the people have nothing left aside from the clothes on their backs."

Military operations are still ongoing in the municipality. During the conduct of relief operations, Lucman noted that "the sound of bombs going off can be heard from afar while our relief operations are ongoing."

The vice governor also mentioned that "it is relatively difficult to conduct relief operations in Lanao del Sur because most internally displaced persons (IDPs) stay with their relatives and not in evacuation centers."

Need for recovery

The military has recovered 85 to 90 percent of Butig municipality, a military spokesperson said on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XII placed the number of IDPs at 12,250.

"Almost everybody chose to evacuate. Some went to nearby barangays, while residents of the same nearby barangays also chose to leave," Pansar said.

The local and regional government, together with the DSWD field office, have already distributed food packs as part of their quick response and relief operations.

When asked about further needs of Butig residents, Pansar emphasized the need for support in "recovery" efforts. With only about 2,000 evacuees staying in three evacuation centers, Pansar said the local and regional government are "still monitoring the whereabouts of all the displaced people."

Pansar also notes the crops in the area awaiting harvest.

"We really need to focus on recovery as we prepare to assist residents of Butig when they return. Some of them still have rice and coffee left idle in the fields, especially coffee since it's scheduled for harvest," he said.

No room for complacency

"Most of the areas affected by the conflict have already been recovered, but operations are still ongoing especially in parts of Brgy. Sandab Madaya, Brgy. Sundig, and a portion of Brgy. Dolangan," Pansar said.

When asked if the Maute group still poses a threat to the municipality, Pansar said it depends on government response.

"If the government will be complacent, the group can regroup and return. But if targeted government operations continue, the group will continue to weaken, maybe even be eliminated completely," Pansar said.

Pansar notes that only a few residents of Butig are involved in the local terror group, with "most of the members coming from other municipalities and provinces."

"Our goal is really to help the people return to their communities," he added.

Pansar said that "coordination with the military will also be crucial in the residents' return," as Lucman assured that "coordination with the military forces have been constant throughout the operations." (Bureau of Public Information)

Fighting misinformation

The municipal government also notes the prevalence of misinformation about their situation, especially online.

"Many misconceptions have to be addressed, especially in Facebook where a lot of false information are posted," Pansar said.

He cited the posts that claimed that Butig's seat of government was taken by ISIS as an example.

"The old municipal hall that was taken by the Maute group was already abandoned early this year. After the recently concluded elections, we transferred the seat of government to the National Irrigation Administration (NIA)," he said, "so when they said that Butig was conquered by ISIS, that clearly wasn't true."

"I hope people will be more responsible in saying things online," he said. "There are many sources of verified information and we should turn to these sources instead of spreading misinformation." (Bureau of Public Information)

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