PAO-BARMM’S efforts boost Bangsamoro’s access to justice

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Public Attorney’s Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PAO-BARMM) has enhanced access to justice for residents through its comprehensive legal services, addressing a wide range of cases and providing critical support to individuals in need.

In the first half of 2024 alone, the PAO-BARMM provided legal assistance to thousands of residents, handling 8,788 cases, including criminal, civil, and administrative matters.  It also provided 304 inquest assistance and 23,654 legal counseling and consultations through various channels.

One of the key areas where the PAO-BARMM has made a significant impact is mediation and conciliation. The office successfully settled 101 out of 113 cases in a single sitting, demonstrating its efficiency in resolving disputes amicably.

Atty. Mariam Mautante, OIC regional director of PAO-BARMM, said the provision of this service depends on client requests for assistance with disputes. “We send an invitation or tinatawag namin na ‘mediation subpoena’ inviting the other party to appear before us so that the parties will be given the chance to settle among themselves kung ano man ang dispute na meron sila,” she said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, August 27.

o enhance public awareness of legal rights and processes, the Public Attorney's Office (PAO) in the Bangsamoro region conducted 150 legal information dissemination outreach programs. Atty. Mariam Mautante, OIC regional director of PAO-BARMM, said these initiatives played a vital role in empowering communities and equipping individuals with the knowledge to navigate the legal system effectively. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10)

Moreover, the PAO-BARMM has played a crucial role in protecting the rights of incarcerated individuals. The office conducted 450 jail visits and facilitated the release of 482 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), ensuring that these individuals receive fair treatment and have justice access. It also provided legal assistance to 33,977 Marawi siege victims in processing their claims.

To enhance public awareness of legal rights and processes, the PAO-BARMM conducted 150 legal information and dissemination outreach programs. These initiatives have empowered communities and equipped individuals with the knowledge to navigate the legal system effectively.

Meanwhile, Mautante assured that their attorneys had undergone the mandatory continuing legal education program. “We are empowered and have undergone the mandatory continuing legal education program funded alone by our own office to enrich and further train our public attorneys to do their job effectively and efficiently,” she said. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

DOJ-BARMM prioritizes prompt case resolution, amicable settlements

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Department of Justice in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOJ-BARMM) has emphasized the importance of resolving cases promptly, especially in inquest proceedings where individuals are detained without a warrant.

Lawyer Rohairah Lao, BARMM regional prosecutor, stated during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on August 27 that their office aims to resolve and dispose of inquest cases within the same day whenever possible. The urgency stems from the need to prevent unnecessary detention of individuals in custody.

“As for the regular preliminary investigation, within 10 days, we have to resolve the cases and evaluate or determine whether or not it will be proper for preliminary investigation or requires further case build-up under the provisions of Department Circular 20,” she said.

In addition to prioritizing case resolution, the DOJ-BARMM is also committed to facilitating amicable settlements of family disputes while respecting the cultural practices of the Bangsamoro people. 

Lao explained that the Bangsamoro people have their own distinct culture, which can sometimes conflict with national laws. She acknowledged that certain cases, like rape cases involving Bangsamoro parties, are not amenable to amicable settlement, even when both parties agree. Lao further explained that prosecutors are obligated to file the case with the court if sufficient evidence exists in these instances.

“But there are other cases where we can help settle amicably outside the court, like ‘ridos’ or family feuds,” Lao stated.

She said that they work with local government units (LGUs) to maintain peace and order in the communities, as settling ridos can be expensive because LGUs often provide blood money for the involved parties, who may not have the resources themselves.  

During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, BARMM Regional Prosecutor Rohairah Lao shared that the Department of Justice-Regional Prosecution Service XIV has been actively working to improve access to justice in the Bangsamoro region through various initiatives. These include training and capacity building for case build-up, prompt case resolution, amicable dispute resolution, and effective legal assistance. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

“Kasi that’s part of our practice na pag mag-settle ng rido, may certain amount, we call it blood money, to the aggrieved parties. That we can intervene with. In fact, meron tayong na-settle sa level natin sa regional office na tumulong tayo (mag-resolve) sa mga ganong klaseng conflicts between families na hindi ma-settle sa court,” she added.

(Because it’s part of our practice to settle rido (feuds) with a certain amount, which we refer to as ‘blood money,’ given to the aggrieved parties. We can intervene in such cases. In fact, we have settled such conflicts at our regional office, helping to resolve family disputes that could not be settled in court.)

Lao noted that many family conflicts can escalate when brought before the court. But by resolving these disputes amicably, they were able to eliminate related cases arising from the same incidents, promoting peace and order in the locality while upholding the rule of law.

The regional prosecutor also shared that the DOJ Action Center in BARMM has successfully assisted numerous clients, leading to amicable resolution of many cases. As a result, the center has assisted 18 clients, with 13 of these cases settling amicably, showcasing its effectiveness in providing timely and efficient legal assistance to the public. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Marawi mayor praises judiciary’s role in upholding peace and order

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — City Mayor Majul Gandamra lauded the crucial role of the judiciary in maintaining peace and order within Marawi.

In his recent State of the City Address, Gandamra highlighted the judiciary’s significant contributions to fostering a sense of security and trust among the community.

The mayor emphasized that the judiciary’s diligent work in resolving disputes, prosecuting crimes, and safeguarding the rights of individuals has been instrumental in promoting the city’s overall peace and order.

As such, he expressed gratitude for the judiciary’s support and assistance in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all citizens.

“We are fortunate that in my administration, we have the best judiciary members. It is with profound gratitude that I acknowledge the support and assistance of our judiciary in helping the local government unit of Marawi maintain the rule of law and ensure justice for all of our citizens, and that includes the National Prosecution Office in Marawi City. The judiciary has been an indispensable partner in our efforts to uphold the laws that govern our city,” he declared.

The mayor stated that the judiciary’s impartial decisions and timely actions have played a key role in resolving conflicts, deterring criminal activity, and promoting a culture of respect and cooperation among the community.

Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra underscored, in his recent State of the City Address, the crucial role of the judiciary in upholding peace and order within the city, particularly in fostering a sense of security and trust among the community members. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Gandamra also reiterated the city government’s unwavering commitment to peace and order and underscored the importance of continued cooperation among the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and the community in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all.

He shared that the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council and the City Peace and Order Council have made substantial progress in enhancing community safety, reducing drug-related incidents, and improving overall security. These councils have also actively engaged in dialogue and partnerships with key community sectors to promote peace and reconciliation.

“Traditional and religious leaders are being consulted and involved in providing lectures aimed at combating criminal activities,” he added.

Meanwhile, Gandamra issued a stern warning to barangay local government units, police, army, and other security forces to strictly avoid protecting illegal activities.

He emphasized that this strong stance against illegal gambling is a critical pillar of the city government’s ongoing efforts to uphold peace and order. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Marawi City enhances disaster preparedness, resilience

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The city government of Marawi has implemented a comprehensive preparedness strategy to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents in the face of various threats.

“The experience during the siege and the pandemic taught us that it is crucial to be always ready for any calamity. So, we have taken several steps to strengthen disaster preparedness in Marawi City due to its vulnerability to natural and man-made disasters,” said City Mayor Majul Gandamra during his State of the City Address on August 19.

These include strengthening the local disaster risk reduction and management (LDRRM) office with additional resources and expertise to manage disaster response efforts and implementing community-based disaster preparedness programs.

The city also invested in early warning systems to provide timely alerts to residents and upgraded critical infrastructure to reduce potential damage during disasters.

Gandamra likewise highlighted the strengthened partnerships between the city DRRM office and various national government agencies, such as the national DRRM council, to ensure the alignment of strategies with national policies and guidelines.

He emphasized key achievements in disaster management, including the orientation and training of 315 barangay DRRM committees, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs), and 522 students on Republic Act 10121, Basic life support, and Standard First aid.

“Capacity-building activities were held for DRRM personnel, which included training barangay chairpersons of the 101 barangays on the Incident Command System executive course. Extensive training was also provided to the DRRM Office response team on basic incident command system, water search and rescue, urban search and rescue, mental health and psychosocial support, and other essential emergency response skills,” he added.

During his State of the City Address on August 19, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra emphasized the importance of readiness, citing lessons learned from the siege and the pandemic. He noted that these experiences underscored the need for strengthened disaster preparedness in Marawi City, which is susceptible to both natural and man-made disasters. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Gandamra said these efforts have yielded positive results, as evidenced by the city’s successful management of local incidents such as soil erosion, flooding, road accidents, and fires. In recognition of its achievements, he shared that Marawi City was honored with an award in the 23rd Gawad Kalasag Seal of Excellence for Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council’s Offices.

“We are committed to building a safer and more resilient Marawi in the face of potential disasters,” he reiterated, emphasizing the city government’s dedication to protecting its residents. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Marawi boasts economic recovery following Marawi siege

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — City Mayor Majul Gandamra announced that Marawi has achieved significant economic growth and development following the devastating Marawi Siege in 2017.

In his State of the City Address on August 19, Gandamra highlighted the administration’s efforts to create a favorable business environment and promote economic recovery.

One of the key initiatives undertaken by the city government was the simplification of the business registration process by reducing the number of required steps and enhancing transparency.

Implementing automated systems for tax collection and business permit issuance streamlined these processes, making them more efficient and less time-consuming and promoting compliance among businesses.

“These efforts resulted in robust economic growth, with the city achieving its highest growth rates. Tax revenue collections continued to increase, reaching a 511 percent tax increase,” Gandamra stated.

According to him, investor confidence has also soared, as evidenced by the increasing number of establishments setting up shops in Marawi. He said business investors for hotels, food chains, and franchises are actively submitting proposals, indicating a positive outlook for the city’s economic future.

Gandamra also highlighted that the city government’s focus on promoting tax payment and business registration has resulted in a significant increase in both business tax collections and real property tax collections.

“In 2023, the total tax collected was P37,118,039.07, and barely after six months, or in June 2024, tax collection already surpassed the total amount collected for the entire year of 2023 at P44,691,569.24,” he added.

The mayor said residents of Marawi in previous years neglected to register and pay their real property taxes. However, in the first semester of 2024, a total of 2,949 real property units have been registered and updated due to the massive tax campaign.

As a result of these accomplishments, Marawi City has consistently been recognized for its economic dynamism and government efficiency in various awards, including the City’s and Municipalities Competitive Index Awards and the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping.

n his State of the City Address, Marawi Mayor Majul Gandamra outlined the significant accomplishments of his administration in advancing the city’s economy following the Marawi siege. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur

Gandamra emphasized that the city’s economic progress is not only a testament to the administration’s efforts but also a reflection of the growing awareness among residents of the importance of compliance with tax and permit requirements.

“One positive outcome of the siege is that people have realized that paying real property taxes and other mandatory taxes significantly contributes to the improvement of their city. Compliance with the declaration of land properties not only helps the City Government receive revenues for relevant programs but also helps the city’s people attain peace by avoiding disputes among landowners,” he added.

By contributing to the city’s revenue generation, Gandamra said citizens are helping to fund essential services and improve the overall quality of life in Marawi. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Marawi City celebrates cultural heritage with Langkit Exhibit

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The City Government of Marawi, in partnership with the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH), Airspeed Philippines, and product designer Chris Gomez, unveiled the Langkit Exhibit 2024 at the School of Living Traditions in Rizal Park on August 14 as part of the 84th Marawi City Charter Day celebration.

The exhibit showcased the intricate art of langkit weaving, a traditional craft passed down through generations in Marawi. By highlighting the beauty and complexity of langkit products, the exhibit aimed to revitalize Meranaw culture and promote sustainable livelihoods for local weavers.

Mayor Majul U. Gandamra said the exhibit is significant in preserving and promoting langkit weaving as a vital part of Marawi’s cultural heritage. Building on the success of the first Langkit Weaving Competition, the city is committed to transforming this traditional craft into a thriving industry.

Under the guidance of product designer Chris Gomez, local weavers have created innovative and contemporary langkit products. These products will be marketed both domestically and internationally, with Airspeed Philippines providing logistical support and online sales channels. Additionally, ISON Towers Philippines is improving internet connectivity to facilitate these efforts.

Sittie Ayena H. Caye, History Researcher II at the BCPCH – Lanao del Sur, delivered a keynote address on behalf of Commissioner Robert M. Alonto. In her speech, she highlighted the cultural importance of langkit weaving, tracing its historical development and emphasizing the need to preserve this tradition while adapting it to modern design trends.

The city government of Marawi unveiled a Langkit Exhibit 2024 at the School of Living Traditions in Rizal Park. This exhibit, part of the 84th Marawi City Charter Day, features the products and creativity of local weavers. (Photo by APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

The Langkit Exhibit 2024 will run until August 16, offering the public a unique opportunity to appreciate the artistry and heritage of langkit weaving.

Langkit Festival marks Marawi’s 84th Charter Day celebration

 

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The city government of Marawi officially opened its weeklong celebration for the 84th Charter Day on Monday, August 12, under the theme “Marawi Rising: From Challenges to Triumphs.” The event aims to showcase the unity of the Meranaw people and the progress made in the city’s development amidst various trials.

The celebration’s opening also introduced the Langkit Festival, an annual event designed to highlight Meranaw cultural heritage through the langkit, a band of woven Meranaw fabric.

“Langkit Festival is a celebration of our traditional weaving and craftsmanship. We are showcasing what our weavers are doing. It is very significant to launch this Langkit Festival so that later on, it will be part of our programs for every celebration of the founding anniversary of Marawi City,” said City Mayor Majul U. Gandamra.

Gandamra described the event as an opportunity to celebrate Marawi’s heritage while working towards a promising future. He emphasized that Marawi’s future is about more than just economic development or infrastructure; it’s about creating a community where all members feel valued and empowered. “It is about fostering innovation while staying grounded in our cultural values,” he said.

Inspired by Weaving Contest Success

City Tourism Officer Princess Tarhata Pacasum-Mangotara explained that the Langkit Festival stemmed from the success of the Langkit Weaving Contest (Kambatalo sa Kapangawl) held during last year’s 83rd Marawi Charter Day. She said the weavers indicated it was the first time in their 60 years of weaving that a local government unit had organized such an event or competition for them.

“Langkit strongly represents the Meranaw culture, and we are very lucky that the city is home to a lot of langkit weavers,” Mangotara said.

She noted that the mayor focused on developing a sustainable program to support the craft and the weavers and to promote it widely.

“By celebrating this intricate tapestry Meranaws call our own, we can help preserve and widely promote our distinct culture, thereby giving our dear local weavers more opportunities to earn better, as we include them in the city’s socio-economic goals,” she added.

Lineup of Cultural and Community Events

In addition to these initiatives, the City Council through resolutions, has encouraged Marawi residents to wear traditional attire or items with langkit accents every Wednesday and declared August as the city’s annual Langkit Festival month.

Gandamra invites everyone to participate in the weeklong celebration’s activities, including the Langkit Exhibit and Artwar on August 14, which features weavers and young artists. Other events include the Dulang Competition to highlight Meranaw culinary heritage, the Sportsfest, and Fun Run from August 13-16 to promote sportsmanship and wellness among the youth, and the Government Services Exhibit from August 13-16 to provide information and one-stop access to essential services.

Key highlights of the week are the unveiling of four historical markers on August 18 and the State of the City Address on August 19. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Marawi City kicked off its 84th Charter Day celebration showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and enduring spirit. The weeklong festivities dubbed "Langkit Festival" highlight Marawi's resilience and unity, reflecting its historical significance and the unwavering pride of the Maranao people. (Photo by DCC/PIA-10)