Marawi LGU marks 126th PH independence day with renewed hope

The Marawi city government joined the nation in commemorating the 126th Philippine Independence Day under the theme, 'Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan.' At Rizal Park, situated within the city's 'ground zero,' a flag raising ceremony was organized by the city administration. (Photo courtesy of LGU Marawi)

Instilling hope and resilience, the city government of Marawi observed the 126th Philippine Independence Day celebration at Rizal Park within the area known as "ground zero."

Mayor Majul Gandamra acknowledged the city's past struggles, marked by the 2017 siege and the challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he asserted that these adversities had tested and fortified the city's resilience, instilling a resolute commitment to rebuild and emerge stronger.

Gandamra further highlighted the community's solidarity in battling COVID-19, emphasizing adherence to hygiene measures, social distancing, and mutual support as crucial components of the city's resilience. He underscored the need for sustained unity in confronting future challenges, stressing the indispensable role of collective strength in Marawi's journey towards recovery.

The mayor also urged the community to honor the sacrifices of their predecessors, emphasizing that their bravery and determination had paved the way for the freedom cherished today. 

"Their bravery and determination have given us the freedom we enjoy today. It is our responsibility to honor their legacy by ensuring that this freedom is safeguarded and extended to every corner of our beloved city," he said.

The Marawi city government joined the nation in commemorating the 126th Philippine Independence Day under the theme, 'Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan.' At Rizal Park, situated within the city's 'ground zero,' a flag raising ceremony was organized by the city administration. (Photo courtesy of LGU Marawi)

Looking ahead, the mayor called for a renewed commitment to building a Marawi that is inclusive, prosperous, and harmonious. He highlighted the importance of celebrating cultural heritage, respecting shared history, and envisioning a future where all residents can thrive.

"Let us draw strength from the lessons of our past and forge ahead with courage and determination, knowing that the spirit of June 12 lives on in each one of us," Gandamra stated. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

DSWD-10 bridges literacy gap in Lanao Sur, rolls out 'Tara, Basa!' program

DSWD-10 Regional Director Ramel Jamen revealed, during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, the ongoing implementation of the Tara, Basa program in Marawi City and Taraka in Lanao del Sur. This initiative aims to assist financially challenged college students as well as slow learners and non-readers in the program's covered areas. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10)

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-10 is currently implementing the 'Tara, Basa!' program in Lanao del Sur to help address learning gaps while assisting financially challenged college students.

During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on June 11, DSWD-10 Regional Director Ramel Jamen revealed that the program is the department's restructured educational assistance, piloted in Marawi City and the municipality of Taraka.

According to him, 'Tara, Basa!' targets 2,070 elementary learners struggling with reading and 310 college students facing financial difficulties in completing their education.

The program employs 207 education students and 103 social work students for 20 days as tutors and youth development workers. In exchange for conducting learning, reading, and "nanay-tatay" (mother-father) parenting sessions, they will receive educational assistance through the cash-for-work system.

At the core of this program is the recognition of parental involvement's crucial role in a child's education journey. As a result, the program also educates parents alongside student learners. Jamen stated that this comprehensive approach guarantees parents' ability to assist their children, particularly when assignment guidance is required.

"Ang parents kailangan pud e-educate. Kay kung tudluan ang bata, kung nay assignment ihatag ang tutor, ang ginikanan nga dili pud kabalo mutudlo o mubasa, pag-abot sa balay (sa bata), wala gihapoy mahimo. So tudluan ang parents sa kung unsay getudlo sa bata kay sila may mu-support," he explained.

(Parents also need to be educated. When a child receives instruction and assignments, parents who lack the necessary teaching or reading skills cannot assist. Educating parents on what their child learns will enable them to provide support at home.)

Jamen stressed that we cannot yet determine the initiative's outcomes because the program is still in progress. However, after completing the 20-day tutoring sessions, learners will take a test to assess the effectiveness of both tutor-led and parental education. (APB/PIA-10)

Lanao del Sur artisans showcase Meranaw craftsmanship in LIKHA 3

Lantong Pangcoga, Sonaya Ali Palao, Caironesa Hadji Jamel, and Anwar Azis participated in LIKHA 3 to showcase their carving and weaving skills. LIKHA is a gathering of skilled artisans and craftspeople from all over the country who want to promote Filipino craftsmanship. (Photo courtesy of Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office-Lanao del Sur)

Seven artisans from Lanao del Sur, renowned for their Meranaw carving and weaving skills, displayed their creations at the third LIKHA event, highlighting the province's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy.

Held at the Philippine International Convention Center from June 6 to 11, LIKHA gathered over 80 skilled artisans and craftspeople from across the country to connect them with potential markets and promote Filipino culture and craftsmanship.

Noraisah Lomodag, one of the featured Meranaw artists, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity. She described LIKHA as more than just an exhibition, but a platform to showcase the artistic works of various communities and fellow master artisans. 

Lomodag also highlighted the chance to present embroidery and wood products from Tugaya.  "Kaya, super thankful ako sa LIKHA organizer and also to MTIT-LDS (Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism-Lanao del Sur), and the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, lalong-lalo na ang Culturaid for their support para makasama kami," she said.

(I am deeply grateful to the LIKHA organizer, MTIT LDS, and the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, particularly Culturaid, for their support in enabling us to participate in this event.)

Okir artist Anwar Azis emphasized the event's significance in promoting their crafts not only to the public but also to fellow artisans. Azis stressed that their creations are a source of pride, inherited from their parents, and intended for future generations in Tugaya.

"Malaking tulong ito upang maipagmalaki namin, hindi lamang sa ibang tao kundi pati sa kapwa artisan namin sa Tugaya na ang aming mga likha ay dapat ipagmalaki. Ang mga ito ay namana namin sa aming mga magulang at hangad namin na maipasa rin ito sa mga susunod na henerasyon sa Tugaya," he said.

(This is a big help for us to showcase, not only to other people but also to our fellow artisans in Tugaya, that our creations are something to be proud of. These are inherited from our parents, and we aim to pass them on to the next generation in Tugaya.)

Tugaya artisan Lantong Pangcoga is also thankful for the opportunity, noting that Tugaya artisans have yet to receive the recognition they deserve at the highest level, such as nominations for the prestigious Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA).

"Bagaman kinikilala sa buong mundo ang aming mga produkto, hindi pa kami nabibigyan ng parangal," he expressed.

(Although our products are recognized worldwide, we have not yet received this award.)

As a result, Pangcoga urged Lanao del Sur's provincial government to advocate for a GAMABA program in the province.

Other artisans who participated in the exhibit included Caironesa Haji Jamel, Sonaya Ali Palao, Normala Amito, and Saadira Basmala.

Okir artist Anwar Azis showcased his woodcarving expertise, employing the intricate okir design, during the third edition of LIKHA, held at the Philippine International Convention Center from June 6 to 11, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office-Lanao del Sur).

Balud weaver Sonaya Palao showcases the intricate Meranaw style of weaving during the third edition of LIKHA held at the Philippine International Convention Center from June 6 to 11, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office-Lanao del Sur)

Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur's tourism focal person, Ahmad Nour-al-dinn Tamano Jr., highlighted the province's diverse traditional crafts showcased at the exhibit. These included intricate Lakub, Balud textiles, woodcrafts, and brassware.

He also elaborated on the provincial government's commitment to supporting local artisans, such as the Meranaw Artisan Summit in 2022, an initiative specifically designed to profile and assist artist organizations and cooperatives. He stated that this profiling process directly facilitated the seven artisans' participation in LIKHA 3.

Tamano further emphasized the support provided by his office, the Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office to the local artisans. Accordingly, they collaborated with the MTIT to ensure the artisans' smooth travel to Manila and the safe transport of their tools and materials.

He also added that Provincial Governor Mamintal 'Bombit' Alonto Adiong Jr. extended financial assistance to the participating artisans through allowances. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Gov't paid over P207-M to Marawi siege victims

One of the structural and property claimants received compensation on  June 7, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Marawi Compensation Board)

The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) has disbursed over P207 million in compensation to victims of the 2017 Marawi siege.

During its distribution on June 7, the MCB awarded P46.9 million to six claimants for both structural and property losses, as well as four for support to families who lost loved ones during the tragic event.

Recipients expressed gratitude to the government and the MCB for the release of compensation, stating that they now have the means to rebuild their damaged houses and can finally start over.

A claimant for structural and property damages, speaking anonymously for security reasons, stressed, "I am deeply grateful to Allah (s.w.t.) for providing for us through the Marawi Compensation Board. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the MCB for their tireless efforts."

Another claimant who tragically lost a family member during the siege expressed appreciation, stating, "Alhamdulillah! The time has finally come for us to receive our claim. I'm incredibly thankful to Allah for the existence of the Marawi Compensation Board." 

A recipient of a death claim also voiced her mixed emotions but acknowledged that this claim was for her dead husband and that she received it because it's their entitlement." She also expressed gratitude to MCB, acknowledging their role in ensuring that rightful recipients receive what they deserve.

Another recipient said, "Alhamdullillah! Panalamatan akn so gobyerno kasi (I'm thankful to the government because) in the first place, hindi ko ini-expect na may (I'm not expecting that there is) payment. 

She mentioned commencing repairs last year without expecting any reimbursement from the government. Therefore, she regarded the sum she received as an unexpected bonus.

"So nagpapasalamat ako sa gobyerno, kay Presidente, kay chairperson Maisara Damdamun-Latiph at sa mga taga MCB," she added.

(I am grateful to the government, to the President, to chairperson Maisara Damdamun-Latiph, and to the MCB staff.)

The MCB started accepting applications for death claims as well as damages to structural and personal property, among other types of claims, in July 2023.

Victims who lost their homes during the Marawi siege are eligible to receive compensation of either P18,000 per square meter for totally damaged structures or P12,000 per square meter for partially damaged structures. The MCB also provides P350,000 to the families of individuals who lost their lives during the siege.

The awarding of compensation for death claims began in November 2023, while the release of reimbursements for structural and property damages commenced in April, this year. To date, the MCB has disbursed payments to 94 claimants for death claims and 49 for multiple claims.

One of the structural and property claimants received compensation on May 17, 2024 (Photo courtesy of Marawi Compensation Board)

Addressing concerns on valuation of damaged properties

In response to concerns about the fairness of utilizing fair market value, which leads to significantly lower compensation amounts due to depreciation, the MCB submitted a joint resolution to the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022 on June 7, proposing an amendment to the law.

According to the MCB, the proposed amendment seeks to eliminate the use of fair market value in calculating monetary compensation for destroyed or damaged properties. Instead, it advocates solely relying on replacement or repair costs, as stipulated in the Act's implementing rules and regulations.

The proposal also recommends a retroactive application of the change for claimants who have previously received compensation based on fair market value. (PIA-10)

BARMM products gain attention in PH's 2nd NAFTE

Staff from BARMM's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) explained to visitors the materials used in some of the products showcased by BARMM during the second National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE) held in Cagayan de Oro City on June 4–6, 2024. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10)

Agri-food and non-food products from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) drew attention during the second National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE) held in Cagayan de Oro City on June 4–6. 

Organized by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), NAFTE serves as a platform to showcase a diverse array of agri-fishery technologies and research aimed at addressing the needs of Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders within the country’s agri-fishery sector. 

In the exhibit, the BARMM featured a selection of products, including Inaul garments, coffee powder, tinadtag (crispy rice cake), dodol (sticky rice with coconut milk), seaweed chips, turmeric powder, and fresh farm produce, among others.

"Nag-participate kami dito sa NAFTE to showcase the products related sa kultura ng Bangsamoro. Nandito 'yung mga fabrics natin na gawa sa Basilan, Maguindanao, and Lanao. Mayroon din tayong ini-showcase na food products like seaweed chips na gawa seaweeds," said Abdul Nasseef Ulong, supervising agriculturist of BARMM's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR). 

(We participated in the NAFTE to showcase products related to the culture of the Bangsamoro. We have our fabrics made in Basilan, Maguindanao, and Lanao. We also showcased food products like seaweed chips, made from seaweeds.)

Ulong highlighted the submission of the 'palapa' product as BARMM's official entry for the Best Innovative Product category. Scallion, ginger, chili, and oil combine to make Palapa, a renowned appetizer from Lanao del Sur.

"Isa sa innovation sa palapa aside from being used as paste, sa ngayon pwede na rin siyang gawing seasoning or panggarnish. Meron na tayong palapa powder with turmeric, shrimp, and other additives na," he noted.

(One innovation in palapa, aside from being used as a paste, is that it can now also be used as seasoning or garnish. We now have palapa powder with turmeric, shrimp, and other additives.)

Palapa was BARMM's official entry for the Best Innovative Product category during the second National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE) held in Cagayan de Oro City on June 4–6, 2024. Lanao del Sur crafts Palapa, a renowned appetizer, from scallion, ginger, chili, and oil. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10)

To enhance the quality and shelf life of palapa, efforts were made to standardize its production process. The College of Agriculture of Mindanao State University - Marawi, with support from MAFAR, documented the production procedures and established proper ingredient measurements.

"Ang isa sa innovation na ginawa dito is mapahaba yung shelf life, kasi we all know na ang palapa madaling masira. There was a process done to extend the shelf life of the product. Sa ngayon ang shelf life niya ay nasa six months na, it can be stored for up to six months," Ulong explained.

(One of the innovations done is to prolong the shelf life because we all know that palapa easily spoils. A process was conducted to extend the shelf life of the product. Currently, its shelf life is up to six months; it can be stored for up to six months.)

Recognition for BARMM's participation came in the form of the "Best Booth" award, which earned the MAFAR-BARMM delegates P20,000 for their creative presentation of Bangsamoro products.

A contingent from the Bangsamoro region wins the Best Booth award during the second National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE) held in Cagayan de Oro City on June 4–6, 2024. (Photo courtesy of DA-BAR)

Ulong expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase the region's culture on a national stage and looks forward to future opportunities to exhibit a broader range of products.

"Although this is the second NAFTE, it's the first time for BARMM to join. We gave our best to showcase our culture through our products. There are a lot of products that are not here. So, we do hope that in the future of NAFTE, we can showcase that," he added.

Under the theme "Makabago at Angkop na Teknolohiya: Tulong sa Patuloy na Pag-unlad ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda para sa Bagong Pilipinas," NAFTE featured 46 exhibitors representing research for development partners from local government units, higher educational institutions, various DA regional offices, and attached agencies and bureaus across the country. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

New village halls to strengthen governance in Lanao del Sur

The BARMM government handed over one of the five new barangay halls to the municipality of Kapai in Lanao del Sur on May 30, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Municipal Government of Kapai)

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), through the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), turned over P53.36 million to the Lanao del Sur provincial government for the construction of 20 new two-storey barangay halls across the province.

Lawyer Sha Elijah B. Dumama-Alba, MILG minister, handed over the check to Provincial Gov. Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. in Marawi City on May 30.

This project, funded by the General Appropriations Act of Bangsamoro (GAAB) 2023, aims to strengthen local governance infrastructure in BARMM.

Dumama-Alba stressed that this is a reflection of the BARMM administration's comprehensive approach to regional development, which ensures that sustained aid for local governance and community development supports physical infrastructure projects.

"The assistance of the Bangsamoro government does not end with the provision of these structures. Rest assured, we are committed to the continuous betterment of the Bangsamoro community," she stated.

The new village halls will function as central hubs for administrative functions, community meetings, and events promoting civic engagement and social cohesion, as well as facilitating the delivery of public services like healthcare and social services. Moreover, the construction phase will create local employment opportunities for the Bangsamoro.

Local leaders thankful for BARMM's support

Adiong expressed gratitude for the BARMM's funding support, recognizing the significant impact of the village halls on local governance and community welfare.

"We are deeply thankful for this funding, which is crucial for the construction of these barangay halls. This initiative will greatly assist our barangay officials in fulfilling their responsibilities towards their constituents," he said.

Marantao municipal Mayor Akira Alonto also thanked the BARMM government and the MILG for including four barangays from his municipality as recipients, promising proper utilization of the project to enhance service delivery. These are the barangays of Daanaingud, Palao Ranaranao, Mantapoli, and Lubo Lininding.

MILG Minister Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba handed over P53,361,000 to Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. on May 30, 2024, for the construction of 20 two-storey barangay halls across the province. Sourced from the General Appropriations Act of the Bangsamoro (GAAB) 2023, this initiative aligns with BARMM's strategic plan to improve local governance infrastructure. (Photo courtesy of Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur)

Infrastructure boost in Kapai town

On the same day, Minister Dumama-Alba also inaugurated and turned over five new two-storey barangay halls to Kapai municipality. These halls, located in barangays Dimagalin, Doronan, Pantaon, Kibolos, and Kapai Proper (Poblacion), represent the BARMM's ongoing commitment to local infrastructure development and community empowerment.

Kapai Mayor Aidah Capal Gauraki expressed gratitude for the BARMM government's continued support, highlighting its tangible impact on their community. ”Ramdam na ramdam na namin ang BARMM," she said.

The construction of new village halls aligns with the Bangsamoro Government's broader goal of fostering a self-reliant and prosperous Bangsamoro community through strategic infrastructure investments at the local level. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Dengue prevention requires community action, health officials say

Dr. Alinader Minalang underscored the significance of united action in combating dengue. He said that by raising awareness, implementing preventive measures, and fostering community collaboration, they can effectively combat this deadly disease and ensure the well-being of all. (Photo by DCC/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- Health officials from the Ministry of Health (MOH) in the Bangsamoro region and the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) urged members of the public and all stakeholders to take urgent collective action to rid their surroundings of mosquito-breeding sites to prevent dengue and the loss of lives.

I hope the barangays will get back to cleaning their surroundings and getting rid of stagnant water every four o'clock because that's a big help for us to combat dengue," said Johaira Macacua-Ali, MOH's Regional Dengue Program Coordinator, during the kickoff of the dengue awareness month campaign in the city.

She stressed that dengue, while endemic, is now not limited to any particular season. Therefore, communities must stay alert and take proactive measures to combat this mosquito-borne disease, which is also linked to inadequate sanitation.

Dr. Alinader Minalang, head of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) in Lanao del Sur, also emphasized the critical need for community action to combat dengue fever as the nation marks another round of dengue awareness month.

He said that recent statistics underscored the urgency of the situation, with Lanao del Sur reporting 2,142 dengue cases and nearly 1,000 cases in Marawi City alone in 2023. From January to May 2024, the city already had 490 cases.

Minalang also urged individuals to take proactive measures within their homes to mitigate the risk of dengue transmission.

"Dispose of waste properly. And the containers that have water need to be disposed of. These are simple things that we can do in our homes, in our offices. And of course, to spread this awareness, to spread the campaign to educate our neighbors, our family, our friends, about prevention measures and encourage them to do the same," Minalang stated.

He explained that the changing environmental conditions, characterized by high temperatures and then heavy rainfall, create favorable breeding grounds for mosquitoes. As such, he highlighted the need for vigilant monitoring of mosquito activity, particularly during early mornings and late afternoons.

"As people of Marawi and Lanao del Sur, we must come together to address these challenges and protect ourselves and our loved ones from this potentially deadly disease," urged Minalang.

The city government meanwhile reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of its communities. "Dengue fever remains a significant public health challenge in Marawi, but we can make substantial strides to reduce its impact through collaborative efforts and proactive measures," said Mayor Majul Gandamra.

Accordingly, the City Health Office is actively monitoring dengue cases in the city and working closely with the City Schools Division of Marawi to raise awareness among students and educators. "This partnership ensures that our young citizens are well-informed and proactive in the fight against dengue," added Gandamra. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)