Youth tackles climate change at 1st Leadership Summit

Islamic City of Marawi (2 December) -- "Stand up and be counted in protecting our environment!" 

This challenge was made yesterday by Dr. Mary Joyce Sali, faculty of Mindanao State University (MSU) - College of Forestry and Environmental Studies and speaker-lecturer during the Civic and Social Responsibility Day of the five-day Lanao del Sur 1st Youth Leadership Summit (YLS). 

The third day of the summit was highlighted by the planting of 1,000 seedlings of fruit-bearing trees at MSU Dairy Farm and the conduct of environmental protection forum at the Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) Center. 

The forum, attended by MSU students and Sangguniang Kabataan youth leaders of the entire province, was aimed to orient the participants on climate change and its effect and develop their social consciousness and responsibility towards environment protection and community development. 

The forum made the participants realize their crucial role in preserving and protecting the environment. 

Inspired by the theme, "Kabataan ng Lanao del Sur: Nagbubuklod at Pangungunahan ang Pagbabago Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran," this first-ever YLS in Lanao del Sur is a collaborative effort of the Philippine Army's 103rd Infantry Brigade (Haribon), the provincial government of Lanao del Sur, the National Youth Commission (NYC), and MSU-Marawi.

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1st Youth Leadership Summit in Lanao del Sur set

Islamic City of Marawi (27 November) -- To have a better understanding on the important role of youth in nation building, a five-day Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) is slated here next week.

The summit will be held at the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus and will kick off on November 29 to December 3 this year.

Inspired by the theme, “Kabataan ng Lanao del Sur: Nagbubuklod at Pangungunahan ang Pagbabago Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran,” this first-ever YLS in Lanao del Sur aims to develop and enhance the good leadership skills of youth leaders and mold them to become partners in promoting peace and development.

The YLS also hopes to develop God-fearing, morally upright, and socially responsible youth leaders.

Topics involving the role of youth in the campaign on climate change adaptation, environmental protection, peace and security, drug education, gender sensitivity, and good governance will be discussed during the 5-day summit.

It will include activities that will help participants develop teamwork, understand and appreciate ones culture, as well as awareness of their civic and social responsibilities to help them mold the future of their own communities.

The summit is sponsored by the 103rd Infantry Brigade (Haribon) of the Philippine Army in coordination with the provincial government of Lanao del Sur, the National Youth Commission (NYC), and MSU-Marawi.

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President Arroyo declares November 27, 28 as non-working holidays

Islamic City of Marawi (24 November) -- To mark the celebration of Eid'l Adha, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has declared November 27 (Friday) and November 28 (Saturday) as non-working holidays in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) per Presidential Proclamation No. 1808-A.

Eid'l Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice is one of the holiest Islamic holidays as it commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

During this day, Muslims in every part of the globe will troop to mosque early morning to start the celebration with a congregation prayer.

The Office on Muslim Affairs (OMA) said the observance of Eid'l Adha is a recognized legal Muslim holiday as mandated by Presidential Decree No. 1083 otherwise known as the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines.

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Mindanao Week of Peace kicks off on November 26

Islamic City of Marawi (24 November) -- The annual Mindanao Week of Peace which aims to raise peace consciousness and promote people's participation in building a culture of peace will again be unfolded this year from November 26 to December 2.

The weeklong celebration is in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 127 which declares the last Thursday of November up to the first Wednesday of December every year as the Mindanao Week of Peace.

The proclamation also enjoins and encourages all concerned government agencies and instrumentalities including government owned and controlled corporations as well as members of the private sector and civil society based in Mindanao to engage in relevant and meaningful activities in celebration of the week of peace in coordination with the Bishops-Ulama Conference of the Philippines.

This year's celebration is bannered on the theme, "Think Mindanao, Feel Mindanao, Bring Peace to Mindanao" which stressed that needs and aspirations for a lasting peace in Mindanao must influence the individual thoughts and feelings of every Mindanaons.

Here in the city, an interfaith forum will be conducted to jointly highlight the Mindanao Week of Peace and Eid'l Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) celebrations.

With the theme, "Sacrifice as the Key to Peace and National Reconciliation," the forum is a collaborative effort of the Ulama League of the Philippines (ULP) and the Mindanao State University – King Faisal Center for Islamic, Arabic and Asian Studies (MSU-KFCIAAS).

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Gun amnesty nets 219 loose firearms in Lanao Sur

Islamic City of Marawi (17 November) -- The Final General Firearms Amnesty (FGFA) of the government posted some 219 loose firearms in the province of Lanao del Sur. 

Police Superintendent Esmael Pua Ali of the Provincial Police Office revealed that they have processed 142 new firearms registration and 77 firearms license renewal. 

The FGFA is the government's intensified campaign against loose firearms.

Under EO 817, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is mandated to implement the FGFA and conduct continuing and intensified law enforcement actions to confiscate and seize all loose firearms. 

The Provincial Director also disclosed that the amnesty period has been extended through EO 817-A in recognition of the public's request for more time to register their firearms. 

He said the original period was only from October 1-31 but it was extended until November 30 of this year. 

Under EO 187-A, individual and juridical entities may register their unregistered firearms and/or renew their expired firearms licenses with the PNP during the extension period. 

The Implementing Rules and Regulations issued by the PNP Chief to carry-out EO 817 is the same in EO 817-A.

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PNP Lanao Sur closely monitors election hot spots

Islamic City of Marawi (17 November) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) Provincial Office in Lanao del Sur is closely monitoring the political situation in the province in preparation for the much-contested political race in the country. 

Based on the parameters set by the COMELEC, PNP-Lanao del Sur has identified 38 election hot spots in the province including the city of Marawi. 

Provincial Director P/Supt. Esmael Pua Ali disclosed that of the 39 towns of the province, only Wao and Bumbaran are not classified as hot spots area. 

He said inclusion to the watched list are largely attributed to intense political rivalry, presence of partisan armed groups and other threat groups as well as records of occurrence of previous violent election-related incidences. 

We are intensifying our peace and order campaign to ensure that the coming 2010 elections will be honest, orderly, and peaceful, P/Supt. Ali said. 

He further revealed that additional augmentation troops were already requested to prevent violence in the upcoming national polls. 

He added that checkpoints were set up in various strategic locations in the province and constant coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is also conducted.

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Lanao Sur gov appeals for unity, teamwork

Islamic City of Marawi (17 November) -- Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. has urged his constituents to unite and work together for the good of Lanao del Sur. 

The Governor made the statement during the Ompia Leaders Consultative Conference yesterday at Lilod Saduc this city in response to the peace and order issues confronting the province. 

He said everybody should work together to combat illegal drugs, carnappings, kidnappings, and all forms of criminality upsetting the peace and order situation in this part of the country. 

 

These problems, according to Adiong, have suppressed the socio-economic growth of the province. 

"As we continue to wrestle peace and order issues, I appeal to you all to unite and cooperate in keeping every barangay of this province safe from violence," Adiong said.

Let us be united in one aspiration for the good and development of Lanao del Sur, he added.

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PGMA assures that peace talks with MILF will resume soon

Ganassi, Lanao del Sur (4 November) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday assured that peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will soon resume. 

In an interview held here, the Chief Executive disclosed that she asked Ambassador Rafael Seguis to go around and talk to the people of Mindanao to find out their real sentiments so that when he sits down in the negotiating panel, he will have something to work on with the MILF. 

Presidential Adviser for Peace Process Secretary Annabelle T. Abaya, in that same interview, also revealed the overall roadmap for peace in Mindanao. 

She said that what Mindanao needs is a comprehensive and holistic approach that includes social engagements, authentic dialogues and consultations with the communities.

Just recently, the President committed to look into the result of the dialogues and consultations in the local communities in Mindanao initiated by Konsult Mindanaw, a project commissioned by the Bishop Ulama Conference. 

Secretary Abaya further disclosed that the government is also reviewing the 1996 peace agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

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PGMA allocates P20-million for modern water system in Ganassi

Ganassi, Lanao del Sur (4 November) -- Residents of Ganassi in the province of Lanao del Sur will soon realize the dream of having their own potable water system as President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo announced a P20-million water system for the municipality.

The President made the announcement during a regional media interview or RMI held here yesterday.

"Ganassi Mayor Baguio Macapodi asked for a P3-million water system but I wanted a modern water facility thus the P20-million allocation," the President said.

She noted that the beautiful and historic Lake Lanao is situated in Lanao del Sur yet few of its towns has potable water.

She said the water project was part of the comprehensive plan for addressing the water problem in Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The goal of the plan is to provide clean water in every waterless town, she stressed.

Of the 41 water districts implemented in ARMM, 7 are located in Lanao del Sur. Five (5) of these projects will be started anytime this month. These include the Masiu, Taraka, Madalum, Pualas, and Metro Basak water districts.

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Arroyo reveals tenets for RP to become a great nation

Ganassi, Lanao del Sur (4 November) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday cited three principles for the Philippines to achieve its goal of becoming a great nation.

In a regional media interview held here, the President said that the people of Mindanao are part of this goal. 

According to her, the first principle is a long term vision of peace and progress which she emphasized must go hand in hand. 

"Peace and progress must go hand in hand because the problem of war in Mindanao has been rooted in economic exclusion and this should be eliminated," she stressed.

Second is to abide by the Constitution that we are one nation and we will never be divided, she added. 

And third, she further said, is social justice for all and institutionalization of the accommodation of ethnic traditions. 

"There must be social justice for all because we have a multi-ethnic society," the President stressed. 

"We have a very rich and varied heritage as a nation and the heritage of Lake Lanao, the beauty of the Maranao culture as well as the beautiful mosques here has to be accommodated," she added.

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Konsult Mindanaw participants want peace talks to continue

Iligan City (21 October) -- Participants of focused group discussions (FGD) conducted by Konsult Mindanaw wanted the peace talks to continue and pushed for the integration of good governance in the peace negotiations. 

These findings were presented during the Regional Research Utilization Forum recently organized by Konsult Mindanaw here in the city. 

The forum aimed to share with stakeholders the regional and Mindanao-wide consultation results and to elicit recommendations for policies and actions to further enhance the reports. 

Fr. Albert Alejo, SJ, Project Director of Konsult Mindanaw, said that the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) is very much alive in the minds of the participants. Many participants feel that the MOA-AD is the way to peace and should therefore be reviewed and / or upheld. 

People want the peace talks to continue and sincerity of both the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has been mentioned by almost all of the FGD participants, Fr. Alejo further said. 

Participants also pushed for the integration of good governance in the peace negotiations and in the delivery of basic goods and services. 

 

According to them, corruption leads to lack of delivery of basic goods and services, which in turn, lead to dissatisfaction and conflict. 

Poverty is seen by them as one of the conditions of peacelessness. 

A mechanism where people could voice their opinions and sentiments was also encouraged by the participants. 

For them, all efforts toward preventing, resolving and transforming violent conflicts and lessening other sources of tensions and animosities will be effective in the long term if they are based on the active participation of people and groups that are committed to working toward lasting peace. 

Another relevant finding is the lack of a good communication program. 

Participants admitted that they are not well informed. Many biased statements and positions, especially on the MOA-AD, are based on long standing prejudices which may be traced to personal experiences of conflict or products of misinformation. 

An education, information and communication (IEC) program on the peace talks should be continuously communicated to the public. 

Media should likewise create a positive impact in the dissemination of information. 

Commissioned by the Bishop-Ulama Conference (BUC), Konsult Mindanaw is a comprehensive initiative to poll people's sentiments and draw up concrete suggestions regarding the GRP-MILF peace talks and of the broader peace process in Mindanao through a series of consultations and dialogues within various sectors and regions. 

It primarily aimed to expand the constituency of peace through wider consultations to reach the grassroots communities and diverse sectors of the Mindanao society. 

The project was the widest and most far-reaching insofar as the peace efforts were concerned—in terms of participation from different sectors of society, Fr. Alejo added. 

Konsult Mindanaw sought to draw diverse perceptions of the present situation and derive a common vision of peace in Mindanao to inspire personal commitment to its realization. 

It also generated fresh ideas on how to enhance and proceed with the peace process hoping to learn new lessons that can further enrich the continuing peace education and communication.

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Two MILF commanders get cash reward in Balik Baril program

Islamic City of Marawi (7 October) -- The army's 65th Infantry Battalion (IB) of the 9th Infantry Division (ID), released cash assistance to members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) who surrendered and availed of the government's Balik Baril program.

In a short ceremony conducted yesterday, two commanders of the MILF Northern Mindanao Front were formally awarded with cash incentives as payment of their surrendered firearms.

Lomantong Bagonte, known as Totong or Aguila, Commander of 1st Battalion, 212Brigade of the 102nd Base Command got P19, 000 for the M203 he surrendered.

On the other hand, Pangalian Ampuan, Brigade Commander of 101st Brigade of the 101st Base Command, received a sum amounting to P40,000.

Ampuan, also known as Alex, surrendered one M16, two M79, and two RPG.

Earlier, the 65IB troopers planted assorted seedlings to two hectares land owned by the former MILF commanders as part of the government's pledge of providing livelihood packages to the rebel returnees.

Lt. Col. Jed G. Motus, Commanding Officer of the 65IB, meanwhile, appealed to the rebel returnees to use the money in lawful and income generating activities that could alleviate the living conditions of their families.

He also urged them to encourage their former comrades to lay down their arms and join the mainstream of the society.

The government's Balik Baril program is aimed at encouraging insurgents to return to the folds of the law.

Under the program, surrendering rebels are provided cash incentive equivalent to the firearm they yielded to the government and livelihood assistance for them to start a new life. (PIA-Marawi/65IB)

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Eid'l Fitr celebration set on September 21

Islamic City of Marawi (18 September) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared September 21 (Monday) as regular holiday throughout the country in observance of Eid'l Fitr, a Muslim feast which marks the end of Ramadhan.

The declaration of Eid'l Fitr as a regular holiday aims to promote cultural understanding and integration giving the entire Filipino nation the full opportunity to join their Muslim brothers and sisters in the celebration.

According to the President, declaring the day also stresses the religious and cultural significance of the Eid'l Fitr to the fore of national consciousness.

Eid'l Fitr is celebrated by Muslim communities for three days after the end of the month of fasting.

The start of the feast falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadhan. The date has been determined by the Office on Muslim Affairs (OMA) as falling on September 21 in accordance with the Islamic lunar calendar.

Ramadhan is a holy month in the Islamic lunar calendar where Muslims across the globe fast from dawn to sunset every day. It is the time where they refocus their attention to God and practiced self-sacrifice

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16 Sultanates of Lanao confer Ebdane as 'Sultan a Mangompia sa Pilipinas'

Islamic City of Marawi (20 August) -- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr has been conferred the traditional title of 'Sultan a Mangompia sa Pilipinas' by the 16 Sultanates of Lanao in a fitting ceremonies held at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall, August 19.

Through his effort in the construction of roads and infrastructure nationwide, Secretary Ebdane possesses the criteria of bearing the title 'The Builder', Lanao del Sur Provincial Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. said.

"It is a privilege for us for Secretary Ebdane to become part of our political institution as a new son of Lanao del Sur. As the governor of this province, it is an honor for me to be sharing a traditional principle of leadership with him," Governor Adiong further said.

The Governor hoped that the new duty and responsibility of Secretary Ebdane as Sultan will serve as a challenge for him to make the province a better community.

"We fervently hope that his regime will be an astounding success in promoting goodness and oneness among us," the Governor added.

After the conferment, Ebdane thanked the Sultanates and the provincial government for their trust and confidence in conferring him such title saying he accepted it with great honor and humility and that he would continue to do everything within his power and influence to ensure that the dream of peace and prosperity in Mindanao becomes a reality.

My job, he said, has been to pave the way to the future, literally, with roads and bridges that link our people and our communities.

"And the work must go on. Together, the road to the future is in our hands. Ang kalsada ang tulay sa kinabukasan kaya sama-sama natin itong alagaan (The road is our bridge to the future, hence, we should collectively take care of it)," he reiterated.(Apipa P Bagumbaran/PIA)

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Lanao Sur officials laud national gov't infra dev't assistance

Islamic City of Marawi (20 August) -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Lanao del Sur recently adopted a resolution commending the national government for the assistance it provided to the people of the province in the field of infrastructure development thru the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). 

Resolution 26 dated August 17, 2009 stated that the assistance is laudable and greatly appreciated by the people of Lanao del Sur because infrastructure development have pave way for achieving long-term productive value of investments, sustainability of socio-economic programs and the maintenance of peace and order in the province. 

To further express gratitude and appreciation, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan resolved to bestow upon Secretary Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr of the DPWH the highest honor that the people of Lanao del Sur can provide by officially adopting him as a son of the province.

Earlier, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo gave DPWH Sec. Ebdane the 'go-signal' for the immediate implementation of both the repair and improvement of the Marawi-Bito National Road with a cost of Php100-million. 

The DPWH Secretary, in his visit here last July 3, also sounded off the scheduled start of construction of the Php 635-million Saudi government-funded rehabilitation of the Lake Lanao Circumferential Road. (Apipa P Bagumbaran/PIA)

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Poor Lanao Sur residents benefit from PHO medical mission

Islamic City of Marawi (20 August) -- Thousands of residents of the province of Lanao del Sur benefited from the medical mission conducted by the Provincial Health Office (PHO).

The four-day medical mission held last August 13 to 16 this year catered four barangays in the municipality of Wao, this province.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Mangoda Dima, Jr. disclosed that some 1,552 patients were provided free medical consultations. Around 310 patients were provided optical services, 313 individuals underwent dental extraction while about 107 patents availed of the operation 'tuli' (circumcision).

The medical mission according to Dr. Dima was made possible through the joint efforts of the provincial government and the local government of Wao.

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Agri-trade exhibit marks opening of 7th ARMM Business Congress

Islamic City of Marawi-- An agri-trade fair and exhibit showcasing local products in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) marks the opening of the 7th ARMM Business Congress in Islamic City of Marawi.

According to Secretary Sajid S. Druz-Ali of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–ARMM, the trade exhibit is a venue for showcasing a number of local products that are seeking further development so that it would find a better market here and abroad.

'The exhibit is one way of showing not only the rich abilities of our local producers for great products but also to invite guests, policy-makers, institutions including the academe to lay their nurturing hands so that these products may evolve further into more market-ready forms," the Secretary said.

Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. of Lanao del Sur said the trade exhibit is a symbol of the joint efforts of the provincial government, farmers, and other stakeholders to promote long-term self-reliant in the rural communities as well as to boost local tourism.

Tourism is tremendous, the Governor said, but there cannot be tourism when there is no production and other economic activities.

Without production, there is nothing for the tourists to look forward to, he stressed.

The ARMM Business Congress is an annual activity of the ARMM Business Council (ABC) Foundation Inc. intended to draw in more investors to further improve the trade and industry activities in the region.

It serves as the vital link between the private sector and the government, harmonizing businesses with local and foreign capitalists to make ARMM a business sanctuary of the country.

This year's congress is anchored on the theme, Maximizing Investment Gains to Propel Economic Development in ARMM," which aims to internalize among players in the business sectors to sustain investment gains in the region.

The different exhibitors who participated in the agri-trade fair came from the provinces of Maguindanao, Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Lanao del Sur as well as the Islamic City of Marawi. (Apipa P Bagumbaran/PIA)

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Lanao Sur hosts 7th ARMM Business Congress

Islamic City of Marawi (6 August) -- To uplift the morale of the business sector and other stakeholders through sustained socio-economic development in the province, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur hosted this year's ARMM Business Congress.

Now on its 7th year, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Business Congress is the biggest gathering of key individuals from the government, business sector, and other stakeholders in the region.

Lanao del Sur Provincial Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr said the gathering underscores the need for greater cooperation among stakeholders and strong commitment for capacity building in the region to encourage business activity.

'There are so many brilliant business opportunities in the region and these opportunities are the key to the regional stability, respect and confidence in the vibrant ARMM business community," Gov. Adiong said.

With the theme 'Maximizing Investment Gains to Propel Economic Development in ARMM," the congress aimed to strengthen the partnership among vital stakeholders for peace and development and to entice both local and foreign businessmen to embark on various business ventures in the region.

The two-day gathering was a collaborative effort of the ARMM Business Council (ABC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)– ARMM, Regional Board of Investments (RBOI), Maranaw Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Lanao del Sur Provincial Government, and the USAID's Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program which is implemented under the oversight of the Mindanao Economic Development Council (MEDCO).

Activities for the congress consisted of agri-trade exhibit, business matching of interested prospective investors, as well as plenary sessions on the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis, ARMM Economic Agenda, Food Security, and the Business Prospect of Halal Food Industry Development.

The Provincial Governor, meanwhile, hailed DTI for supporting the welfare of farmers, traders and craftsmen by advancing the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) program aimed at strengthening livelihood in rural communities.

Supporting the growth of local SMEs is one of the priority programs of the national government to sustain its anti-poverty thrust as well as stimulate local economic activity. (Apipa P Bagumbaran / PIA)

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Lanao Sur leaders support GRP-MILF truce

Marawi City (4 August) -- Leaders in Lanao del Sur hail the recent separate declarations of truce between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). 

Ulama League of the Philippines President Judge Aboali Cali said he and other peace advocates in Mindanao welcomed the reciprocal declarations hoping that the truce would redound to the immediate re-opening of the GRP-MILF peace talks. 

Earlier, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo issued a policy directive suspending military operations (SOMO) against the MILF. 

The SOMO was aimed to advance peace and stability in war-affected areas and provide a stable environment for the resumption of peace talks between the government of the Philippines and the MILF. 

The move was immediately reciprocated by the MILF announcing suspension of military action (SOMA). 

The mutual truce, Judge Cali said, will also give internally displaced persons (IDPs) the chance to return to their respective homes safely.

It will further contribute to the restoration of tranquility and harmony in Mindanao, he added. 

For his part, Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. urged the government and all concerned sectors in conflict-affected areas to be cautiously assertive to preserve the truce by helping pacify both the military and MILF forces from any unnecessary armed engagements. 

The Governor stressed that the significance of the mutual declarations would be more meaningful if both forces could effectively avoid any provocations. 

Meanwhile, President Arroyo in her recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) said that there is nothing more she could wish for than peace in Mindanao where Muslims, Christians, and Lumads can live together in peace, harmony and cooperation respecting each other's religious beliefs. (PIA)

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Lanao Sur mayor praises PGMA's determination to push the country forward

Manila (28 July) -- Mayor Raida B Maglangit of Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur praised President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for her determination in pushing forward the nation despite political pressures and economic constraints. 

"I believe in what President Arroyo has said in her State of the Nation Address (SONA) that national problems cannot be knocked out with a single punch. Hindi yan nagagawa sa isang tulugan lamang (We cannot do that overnight). We need to work hand in hand so that all our aspirations of a better nation will be achieved," Maglangit said. 

The town mayor also commended President Arroyo for delivering a very substantial SONA.

The President, she said, was able to accomplished major achievements in terms of infrastructure, economy and education. 

Maglangit further said that her town benefited from the infrastructure and educational projects of the Arroyo administration such as construction of school buildings and hiring of additional teachers. 

President Arroyo showed her dedication and commitment to uplift the lives of Filipinos by placing education among her top priorities, the lady mayor added. 

In her last SONA during the 3rd Joint Regular Session of the 14th Congress, the President underscored the importance of education in reducing poverty stressing that education is the great equalizer that allows a young Filipino the chance to realize his / her dream. 

First Muslim woman bar topnotcher Atty. Mylene Amerol-Macumbal, whom the President recognized during the SONA, said she was happy to be one of the beneficiaries of the government's college and post-graduate scholarship program. 

"I am a product of Mindanao State University (MSU). I finished my accountancy degree and took up law in MSU. And I was not paying anything for it. Kaya malaki talaga ang naitulong ng MSU at ng gobyerno upang bumuti ang buhay ng mga tao sa Mindanao (MSU and the government have greatly helped in uplifting the lives of people in Mindanao)," Macumbal said. 

As of June 2009, the Arroyo administration has constructed more than 95,000 classrooms, procured over 135.6 million textbooks, installed computer labs in 4,019 public high schools, filled-up 60,000 teachers items, allotted Php1.5 billion for teacher training and provided college and post-graduate education for over 600,000 scholars. (Apipa P Bagumbaran/PIA-Marawi City)

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Feature: Community consultation - new paradigm on Mindanao peace process

Cagayan de Oro City (24 July) -- For decades now, various voices have been crying for peace to happen in Mindanao. 

But on the eve of the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Supreme Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order followed by a declaration that the MOA-AD was unconstitutional. 

Throughout the period, violence ensued and the sound of guns dominated the various parts of region wherein thousands of civilians were rendered homeless. 

Then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, in the last quarter of 2008, requested the Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC) to oversee a consultative process to come up with a framework for lasting peace in Mindanao. 

Inspired by the challenge of ending the decades-long conflict and bringing peace in Mindanao, the BUC accepted the invitation of the government to spearhead the new peace process.

It commissioned a project dubbed as Konsult Mindanaw that allows broader peoples' participation in the peace process. 

Konsult Mindanaw held a series of extensive grassroots consultations and dialogues regarding the ongoing peace process with the MILF. It included representations from various sectors such as women, youth, rural and urban poor, local government units, non-government organizations, traditional leaders, religious groups, academe, business practitioners, professionals and internally displaced persons (IDPs). 

The project also involved special group discussions among artists, armed groups, media practitioners and children. 

It primarily aimed to expand the constituency of peace through wider consultations to reach the grassroots communities and diverse sectors of the Mindanao society. It also sought to draw diverse perceptions of the present situation and derive a common vision of peace in Mindanao to inspire personal commitment to its realization. 

Moreover, Konsult Mindanaw generated fresh ideas on how to enhance and proceed with the peace process hoping to learn new lessons that can further enrich the continuing peace education and communication. 

This community-based consultation divided into eight (8) regional centers reaching the whole of Mindanao that include among others, Basilan-Sulu-Tawi, Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao, Caraga, Central Mindanao, Socksargen, Northern Mindanao and the Lanao region.

Each regional operation is being hosted by an existing research center that will coordinate the communication process, conduct actual consultation and interpret the data gathered.

Major schools and universities across Mindanao have also been tapped to carry out the project like Ateneo universities in Davao and Zamboanga; Notre Dame University in Cotabato City; Mindanao State University in Marawi City, General Santos City and Tawi-Tawi; Urios College in Butuan City and Dansalan College in Marawi City in partnership with the Mountain view College in Bukidnon. 

Principally a research process, Konsult Mindanaw, enhances peace education and communication, democratic exercise as well as spiritual transformation,

It is not a substitute of the peace process but instead it complements the GRP-MILF peace talks and the broader peace process in Mindanao. (Apipa P Bagumbaran/PIA)

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Feature: Ready to face the world: Glory be thy Gloria!

Marawi City (24 July) -- "With the new skills I learned, I feel a world-class career will be coming to life for me." 

Thus said Nasroden M. Alawi, one of the thousands Pangulong Gloria scholars of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). 

A scholar in a state university in year 2002 taking a post-graduate degree in teaching, Alawi was not able to pursue his dream profession because of financial constraints in completing his thesis requirement. 

"Seven years has dragged my life meaningless, and the huge investment in time and money for a dream career went down on drain until TESDA happens," Alawi said.

I have heard of TESDA's PGS, he said, but I never realized the hope it brings to the people especially the poor ones. 

The Pangulong Gloria Scholarship (PGS) is part of the economic resiliency plan of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to reduce unemployment and underemployment in the country.

It aims to provide skills and competencies through various education, training and skills upgrading programs that will prepare job seekers for employment not only in the country but also abroad. 

Alawi considered himself lucky for having availed of the PGS. He is currently enrolled in the six-month Massage Therapy course in Cali Paramedical College, one of the school-partners of TESDA in Marawi City. 

At first, I took the course as my second option while waiting for opportunities to come but after the orientation conducted by TESDA, the thought has changed, he said.

The Pangulong Gloria Scholar expressed overwhelming confidence that the new skills he learned will increase his chances of getting hired here and abroad. 

The scholarship program will help in turning me from being a frustrated professional into a world-class worker, he said, I am now ready to face the world! (PIA-Marawi City/Cali Paramedical College)

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Ulama League condemns Mindanao blasts, joins nation in prayer

Marawi City (13 July) -- The Ulama League of the Philippines (ULP) condemns the series of bombings in Mindanao that resulted to an atmosphere of shock and extreme outrage. 

The ULP, in an open letter, expressed their condemnation on these barbaric acts saying that these incidents are actions of uncivilized people and are unpardonable in the eyes of both human and divine laws. 

The ULP also asked the peace-loving citizens of the country to be not influenced by some unfounded reasons and pre-tainting of the circumstances. 

"Let there be investigation of the truth relative to the perpetrators, after all, we civilians are the victims of the circumstances. Let there not be concocting of facts in ferreting out the truth because falsehood creates animosities and only wreak havoc," the ULP said. 

"We join the nation in prayer and search for justice. May this problem on peace come to its resolution," the ULP added. 

Meanwhile, Malacañang asked the public to remain calm and vigilant giving assurance that these bombing incidents are being investigated and that the government is doing all to resolve the series of Mindanao blasts, protect the public and look after the welfare of those displaced by the violence. (Apipa P Bagumbaran/PIA)

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Lanao Sur conducts Health Day, launches Nutrition Month

Marawi City (9 July) -- In pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 491, also known as the Nutrition Act of the Philippines, designating the month of July as Nutrition Month, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur and the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) jointly spearheaded the launching of the 35th Nutrition Month celebration in the province. 

Anchored on the theme, "Wastong Nutrisyon Kailangan, Lifestyle Diseases Iwasan," this year's Nutrition Month celebration focuses on the importance of a healthy diet that would result to a healthy lifestyle. 

A Hataw exercises held at the provincial capitol grounds kicked-off the launching. The Hataw, headed by Department of Health – Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOH-ARMM) Secretary Tahir B. Sulaik, Provincial Governor Mamintal 'Bombit' Adiong Jr., and First Lady Raifa Adiong, was participated in by Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), medical students as well as employees and staff of IPHO. 

The launching was highlighted by a ceremonial distribution of PhilHealth IDs and awarding of certificates to 15 BHWs in recognition of their contribution in the delivery of health services in the province. 

The 15 BHWs, who have been in service for more than 5 years, have attended trainings conducted by DOH and continuously active in the delivery of health services for the past years, came from the municipalities of Wao, Kapatagan, Malabang, Calanogas, Marantao, Ramain, Balindong, Maguing, Masui, and Poona Bayabao. 

Meanwhile, DOH-ARMM Secretary Tahir B. Sulaik lauded the Provincial Governor in his effort in delivering quality health services to his people citing the Governor's genuine interest in the development of the province and its people. 

He said the leadership recognizes the importance of health which is a very basic ingredient in achieving development. 

The Secretary also emphasized the role of communities in the development process stressing that the active participation of the communities as well as synergizing national and local efforts will lead to achieve a greater impact. 

Another highlight of the celebration was the opening of Nutrition booth where nutritional foods were displayed as well as other health booths that catered blood typing, blood pressure screening, glucose or sugar screening and body mass. Optical, dental, and medical examination was also conducted during the celebration. (Apipa P Bagumbaran / PIA)

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Lanao Sur Gov urges constituents to support moral renewal program

Marawi City (9 July) -- Provincial Governor of Lanao del Sur Mamintal 'Bombit' Adiong Jr. urged his constituents to support his moral revival efforts to attain permanent and long lasting peace in the province. 

The Governor made the statement during the recently concluded golden anniversary celebration of the province stressing the importance of people's cooperation in achieving peace. 

"I implore my constituents and fellow leaders to support our moral revival program because no amount of moral recovery efforts can change Lanao del Sur without the cooperation of its people. I cannot do it alone," he stressed. 

He also made assurance of his sincerity and dedication toward the end emphasizing that it is his unwritten but enforceable covenant to the Maranao community and the people of Lanao del Sur.

Many antagonist, Adiong said, consider this move illusive, but for me with extra effort and patience we will achieve this goal in no time. 

"As long as I have the opportunity of leading my people, rest assured of my sincerity and dedication on this moral revolution that we are fighting for today," he added.

Moreover, the Provincial Governor proudly cited that during the past two years of his administration, he has successfully met his 7-point agenda on productive infrastructure, economic development, youth-related programs, commitment on environmental issues, transparency in all government actions, promotion of tourism and cultivation of a culture of peace. 

The struggle for peace and development was a tough one but I stood firm in overcoming the hard realities and transformed them into fruitful ones, he further said.

I have made the Provincial Capitol a catalyst of change and rest assured that under my leadership, we will lead the way for a better and more progressive Lanao del Sur, he added.

The adoption of moral renewal program is in response to President Arroyo's Administrative Order 255 directing heads of government agencies to implement moral renewal and values formation program. (Apipa P Bagumbaran / PIA)

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DPWH official keynotes moral revival summit, calls for teamwork

Marawi City (6 July) -- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr has called on all the people of Lanao del Sur to work together to achieve peace and prosperity. 

The Secretary sounded the call at the end of the two-day Moral Revival Workshop-Summit held recently at the Provincial Capitol Gym, this city. 

Jointly spearheaded by the Ulama League of the Philippines (ULP), Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, the workshop-summit was aimed at reviving morals in governance, education and economics. 

Ebdane said the summit which focused on moral renewal was timely because it anchored the need to get back to basics in order to pave way for peace and development. 

"It is indeed timely that you have chosen this special occasion to come together in search for answers to key questions about vision, principles and action because I believe that action is the best manifestation of one's conviction and moral stand," he said. 

He pointed out that what the people need to push forward their march were unity of vision and action as well as a solid commitment to pursue their vision together. 

Community action, he said, is the key element. A community that is aware of threats and opportunities and is committed to working together for prosperity, development, and better life will be in the best position to win and will win. 

"If the community is one in vision and action there is nothing that cannot be solved and there is little that cannot be achieved because a community united in vision will be able to achieve whatever they set their minds to," Ebdane further said. 

 

The Public Works Secretary, meanwhile, cited how the DPWH is helping in the progress and development of communities emphasizing the crucial role of roads and bridges in the communities. 

"The road is the bridge to the future, it is hope, it is opportunity, it is a better life and this hope, this opportunity, this better life is what the DPWH has worked on for the last 111 years," he stressed. 

"I have seen how dreams of progress and prosperity for communities and families have been made more real through the bridges and roads that open up possibilities for trade, education, health services and great technology and rest assured that the men and women of DPWH will continue to fulfill our pledge of service to build our country through public work facilities," he added. 

Ebdane also revealed that under the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Mindanao has been given a big chunk of public works investments. Under the SONA projects, Mindanao has 9 major infra projects supervised by the DPWH worth Php19.9-Billion to address the lack of roads and road networks that hinder development activities. 

He further disclosed that in this year's pump priming program alone, about Php15-Billion has been allocated for maintenance and constructions of roads, bridges, flood control and other public works in Mindanao. 

The DPWH Secretary also announced that the implementation of the improvement and rehabilitation of the Lake Lanao Circumferential road will soon start. (Apipa P Bagumbaran /PIA)

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