‘Sendong’ brings havoc to agri properties in Lanao del Sur

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Dec. 17 (PIA) -– The heavy rains coupled with strong winds caused by ‘Sendong’ last night has brought havoc to agricultural properties in the province.

Provincial Information Officer Nasser Ganda said the damage of Sendong were mostly against properties such as houses, agricultural land and farm animals.

“But we cannot estimate the cost of damage as of this time yet,” he said.

He further said that no other casualty was noted except the two persons who were reportedly missing in Kapai town this morning.

Aside from Kapai, other towns severely affected by floods are Bubong, Ditsaan Ramain, Taraka, Poona Bayabao and Mulondo.

However, he said that the impact of Sendong in the province is still manageable.

Meanwhile, the 103rd Infantry Brigade headed by Col. Daniel Lucero are sending 100 soldiers to Iligan City as an augmentation volunteers to help in the rescue and recovery operations in the city.

The 103rd Infantry Brigade is based in Kampo Ranao, this city.

The troops will also be bringing the speedboats of the Brigade.

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Marawi City holds 1st Health Summit

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, December 15 (PIA) --- The City Health Office has successfully conducted the First Marawi City Health Summit highlighting the importance of strong partnerships in improving the delivery of health services in the city.

The health summit held last December 13-14, 2011 at the Dynasty Court Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City was participated in by health workers, city government officials and heads of office, as well as barangay officials from the 96 barangays of the city.

Anchored on the theme “Forging Strong Partnership for Better Health Care in Marawi City,” the two-day summit featured various health practices, experiences and initiatives conducted in collaboration with the community, local government unit, service providers and private partners.

Gracing the summit was Dr. Kadil M. Sinolinding, Jr., regional secretary of the Department of Health (DOH) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), who announced that President Benigno S. Aquino III has signed the Php956 million health stimulus fund for the entire region in addition to the Php382 million given by DOH central office for health facility enhancement which includes both infrastructure and equipment.

He further announced that an additional 150 midwives will be deployed in the autonomous region under the Midwives in Every Community in ARMM (MECA) program aimed at reducing infant and maternal mortality rate by improving the delivery of health care services in far-flung communities where residents could hardly consult a physician.

Meanwhile, Fauzia Dimatingcal, chairperson of Barangay Lumbaca Madaya, shared the barangay’s experience in raising health awareness through community involvement.

Councilor Abdani Alonto, chairman of the City Council’s Committee on Health, also bared the various initiatives of the local government to advance health service delivery in the city.

These included the enactment and revisions of policies, resolutions, and ordinances such as the organization of the Local Health Board, crafting of the comprehensive anti-smoking ordinance, ordinance prohibiting dispensing of anti-TB drugs without prescription, ordinance requiring barangay chairpersons to allot five percent of the barangays IRA for health services, and the creation of the Dansalan Tuberculosis (TB) Council.

On the other hand, Dr. Cabiba Macapaar, CHO chief technical officer, reported how the private partners and service providers have helped in improving the TB program of the CHO.

The summit ended with the recognition of the members of the Community Health Action Teams (CHAT) and awarding of prices to the winners of the Health Gallery Exhibit.

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TESDA gears up for the launching of TSTP in Lanao del Sur

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, December 8 (PIA) --- The Provincial Office of the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) steps-up its preparation for the upcoming launching of TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) on December 14.

The TSTP is our new program aimed at facilitating employment of TESDA graduates and certified workers and creating livelihood opportunities for them, said TESDA Provincial Director Tarhata S. Mapandi.

Anchored on the tagline “TESDA Specialista, Kaagapay sa Matuwid Na Pag-Unlad,” she said the program will assist TESDA-certified graduates to get into productive undertakings to help themselves and their communities.

“Through this program, we will tap our trained and certified workers who will be providing services required by their immediate communities,” she added.

Meanwhile, Mapandi disclosed that they are also waiting for the release of scholarship vouchers for the 381 slots allocated for the first district of the province under the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA).

The 171 slots allotted for the second district have already been awarded to the scholars, she said.

Additional scholarships are also up for grabs under the stimulus package granted to the agency with another 405 PESFA slots and 315 slots for the Training For Work Scholarship Program amounting to P2 million, she added

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Peace stakeholders in Lanao del Sur declare unified commitment for peace in Mindanao

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Dec. 6 (PIA) --- Sharing the common concern for reconciliation and understanding, peace stakeholders in this province vowed to support all peace and development initiatives in Mindanao.

They made a commitment to suppress all and every negative actions which hinder the attainment of peace in Mindanao and at the same time conveyed appreciation to individuals, organizations and international institutions in their various efforts towards the realization of lasting peace in this part of the country.

The signing of the unified declaration of commitment for peace highlighted the provincial culmination program of the Mindanao Week of Peace 2011 held recently at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall, here.

Professor Salipada Tamano, co-convenor of the Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC) expressed hope the activity will tremendously contribute in the ultimate realization of the common aspiration of making Mindanao a land of peace, harmony, development and prosperity.

He also reiterated the appeal of the BUC to all Christians and Muslims in the country to renew their faith by thorough study and reflection and living a life based on the Love of God and Love of Neighbor, a core commitment to know and to obey.

The conflicts, wars and animosities among and between Christians and Muslims today can be traced to the wrong understanding and/or violation of this commandment, he further reiterated.

Likewise, BGen. Guima Marash of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) has called on both Christians and Muslims to live in peace without discrimination.

Marash also gave assurance that the IMT will work hard to monitor peace not only in the two Lanao provinces but throughout Mindanao.

We will work for peace and, together, we will make it happen, he further assured.

Jointly sponsored by the provincial government and the Ulama League of the Philippines (ULP), the MWOP culminating program was attended by religious and traditional leaders, members of the Task Force Makalintad, 103rd Infantry Brigade, provincial police, academe, youth and media, as well as representatives from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and IMT.

This was conducted in pursuant to Presidential Decree 127 enjoining all concerned government agencies and all instrumentalities including government-owned and controlled corporations, as well as, members of the private sector and civil society organizations based in Mindanao to engage in relevant and meaningful activities and undertakings in observance of the MWOP.

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Army official cites impact of a secure environment to development

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Dec. 6 (PIA) -- An army official has underscored the important contribution of a secured environment to development.

BGen. Roland C. Amarille, assistant division commander of the army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division and head of Task Force Makalintad, said security fuels business confidence and encourages investments that in turn provide jobs to the people.

He said tourism which is a vital sector of the country’s economy is virtually dependent on the level of security that can be provided to tourists adding that the success of security operations of the government is an important factor for the consistent upswing of tourist arrivals in the country.

Thus, he gave assurance that the Tabak troopers will continue to play its role of providing a secured environment conducive to development.

Likewise, he emphasized that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is guided by the Philippine Development Plan of the Aquino administration and as enumerated on the provision of peace and security, the promotion of peace of process shall be the center piece of the AFP’s internal security program as a testament of the government’s commitment and policy on reconciliation and reunification.

Thus, the AFP has launched its Internal Peace and Security Plan called Oplan Bayanihan which is anchored on two thrusts, namely, the whole-of-nation approach and the people-centered security, to shift its operations in support to the national government’s policy.

This is significant to the current mission of the AFP to transform its troopers into peacemakers and peacebuilders, he further said.

Henceforth, our policy is directed on the supremacy of the peace process, winning the peace, promotion of human rights and rule of law, focused military operations and commander’s accountability, he added.

Meanwhile, Amarille disclosed that the government has launched the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program as a complimentary track of the peace process.

He said the PAMANA is the government’s peace and development framework to respond and strengthen peace building and development in conflict-affected areas.

In Mindanao alone, the local monitoring teams (LMT) of the GPH-MILF Joint Ceasefire Committees have identified 4,032 conflict-affected barangays, he further said.

Amarille further disclosed that at present the national government is completing the unserved benefits of former rebels for the social integration program.

The national program for unification and development has also allocated funds to support rebel returnees and have processed amnesty certificates for 65 rebels this year, he further added.

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LTO-Marawi collections up by 200 percent in November

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Dec. 5 (PIA) --- The Land Transportation Office – Marawi District Office posted a total collections of Php853,268.00 for the month of November, up by more than 200 percent as compared to the Php246,742.75 collections recorded the same month of 2010.

Sibana M. Datumanong, district head of LTO-Marawi, said the increase in the agency’s collections was due to the inspection and checkpoint operations conducted by the members of the army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade (Bde), based in Kampo Ranao, this city.

The LTO has deputized the army to assist the agency in the implementation of road and traffic laws in the city.

As a result of the checkpoint operations, various types of motor vehicles were apprehended because of no registration, expired registration, expired licenses of the drivers and drivers without license, he said.

Out of the Php853,268.00 total collections, Php141,500.00 came from fines and penalties on law enforcement which posted zero collections last November of 2010.

Also, fines and penalties on Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) and licensing amounted to Php107,071.50 and Php22,000.00, respectively, compared to the Php42,802.50 and Php8,775.00 collected last year.

Datumanong, meanwhile, expressed appreciation to the Philippine Army for its support in the implementation of land transportation laws.

On the other hand, Col. Daniel A. Lucero, commander of the 103rd Bde, gave assurance that the army will continue to give support operations to local government units and government agencies in the province in pursuant to the army’s Internal Peace and Security Plan dubbed as “Bayanihan.”

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Marawi supports Mindanao Week of Peace celebration

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, November 23 (PIA) --- The city government has expressed its all out support for this year’s observance of the Mindanao Week of Peace (MWoP).

“This is a chance for us to show to the world that we, here, are united against violence and other issues besetting our beautiful city,” said City Mayor Fahad “Pre” Salic during a recent meeting with the representatives from the army’s 103^rd Infantry Brigade (Bde) to iron out plans and activities for the weeklong celebration.

Spearheaded by the Bishops-Ulama Conference, this year’s MWoP celebration which will run from November 24 to 30 is anchored on the theme COMMON WORD between us and you: Love of God, Love of Neighbor.”

Here in the city, the 103^rd Bde, through the spirit of “Bayanihan,” is responsible for urging the local government to participate in this year’s celebration.

A Peace Rally will highlight the celebration on November 30 to be participated in by the various stakeholders in the city, including non-government organizations.

The youth sector will also be given the chance to voice their concerns regarding peace and security during the peace rally.

More coordination meetings will be conducted for a smooth flow of events and for wider participation, said Major. Abdullah D. Mocsana, CMO Officer of the 103^rd Bde.

Meanwhile, the mayor expressed hope and confidence that the celebration will bring positive changes to the image of the city.

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Army revives Dimalna Peace and Order Council

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, November 23 (PIA) ---The leadership of the 65^th Infantry Battalion pursued the conduct of Barangay Peace and Order Council for Barangay Dimalna, this city last November 20, 2011.

Discussed during the meeting were the AFP’s Bayanihan, DENR’s environmental management, and PNP’s Barangay Defense System.

Heading the troops was Major Dhoc K. Equing, the executive officer of 65^th Infantry Battalion. Accordingly, the unit involved the local police of Marawi City under PSupt. Jaime Mojica and the PENRO represented by Forester Alimon D. Gamon through the spirit of “Bayanihan.”

Equing likewise held a dialogue with the officials after the lectures and urged them to pursue peace and security programs for their barangay emphasizing that it is still the barangay officials are the primary responsible in responding to situations before PNP forces could respond.

The barangay officials expressed their support to the Army’s programs and thanked them for their effort.

“We hope that the Army will continue this kind of program to include the nearby barangays for the involvement of more people in the campaign of peace and security,” Barangay Chairwoman Hadja Sobaida M Salic said.

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Army develops barangays’ solidarity

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, November 23 (PIA) --- At least eight (8) barangays participated in the Inter Barangay Sport Fest 2011 on Monday at Sitio Bago Ingud, Brgy Udalo, Piagapo town, this province.

The 64^th Infantry Battalion led by 1Lt Aslim M. Ulangkaya, Commanding Officer “B” Coy, initiated the conduct of first inter barangay sport fest in support to army’s civil military operation activities in the area.

Municipal Vice-Mayor Asnawi L. Bato, expressed his gratitude to the Philippine Army for being concerned to the physical condition and camaraderie of every barangay in his town.

He also emphasized the importance of sports to all delegates saying that being active in sports will help maintain good health and avoid different vices.

Ulangkaya, on the other hand, said the troops will continue working with the local government units in the province to support the needs of the populace as part of its Bayanihan program.

The sport fest will culminate on December 16, 2011.

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Army, PENRO join hands in promoting environmental protection in Lanao

SAGUIARAN, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 16 (PIA) --- Some 600 persons attended a short program on environmental awareness facilitated by the Philippine Army (PA) stationed, here.

Organized by the 64th Infantry Battalion (64IB), PA, the program anchored on the theme "Tree Planting for Sustainable Development" was held at the Pantar Centeral School, today, in observance of the Environmental Awareness Month this November.

Col. Tatar Boriongan (Ret,), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) of Lanao del Sur graced the ceremony which was highlighted with the conduct of tree-planting activity.

At least 200 pieces of various non-fruit bearing trees were distributed to and planted by the participants.

In support to the program, the soldiers also distributed at least 500 pieces of educational materials regarding care for the environment to the students.

The municipal policemen of Pantar led by Police Inspector Salman M. Saad, also joined the activity.

Boriongan urged the people to keep on planting trees. "Mas malaki ang ating mapapakinabangan lalo na ang ating mga anak kapag marami tayong naitanim na punongkahoy," he said.

The Army represented by 1Lt. Randolf Manding, likewise, vowed to support the PENRO as mandated in the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan program.

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Phil. Army, LTO step-up campaign against illegal motorists in Marawi City

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 13 (PIA) --- At least 29 various types of motor vehicles (MVs) were apprehended during the recent one-day checkpoint operation conducted by the Philippine Army (PA) units in two different locations, here in the city.

The checkpoint operations were based on the deputation order number AMM-061-2011, issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for specified members of the 103^rd Infantry Brigade (103^rd Bde), 1^st Infantry Division, PA, stationed here.

As a result, various types of MVs ranging from private sports utility vehicles (SUVs), motorcycles, tricycles, CAB-type, multi-cabs and public utility vehicles (Pus) were apprehended and temporarily impounded at the main headquarters of the 103^rd Bde at Kampo Ranao.

Offenses committed by drivers or operators ranged from: no registration, expired registration, expired drivers’ license and driving without license.

The effect was that there were no more MVs plying the area with similar expected offenses the following day.

Also, most of the vehicles were already released to their respective owners after paying appropriate penalties through LTO-Marawi City branch.

According to LTO-Marawi and Iligan branches, their respective collections increased for the past few weeks due to the publicized deputation of the elements of this unit to LTO.

It’s been noted that suspected carnapped vehicles were brought in the area and utilized for illegal activities, such as drug trade and other syndicated crimes.

Meanwhile, Col. Daniel A. Lucero, commander of the 103^rd Bde, vowed to help restore public order and confidence of the populace through strict implementation of laws and implementation of checkpoints.

It also plans to step-up inspection to include checking possible illegal contrabands, such as firearms and prohibited drugs soon.

As part of the aspirations of the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”, the 103^rd Bde will continue pursuing support operations for the protection of the populace against unscrupulous groups within Lanao provinces, Lucero said.

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Illegal constructions inside private bldgs. top security issues in Lanao Sur

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 13 (PIA) --- The discreet construction of hardened gun-fighting positions inside private buildings and the ill-constructed road humps that restrict the flow of traffic topped the security issues in the province.

These issues surfaced during an open forum that was conducted, as part of a training/seminar on Radio Land Mobile, at the Mindanao State University (MSU) Cafeteria, yesterday, November 12.

Col. Daniel A. Lucero, commander of the 103^rd Infantry Brigade (103Bde), 1^st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, who was one of the guest speakers, pointed out the importance of communications for peace and development.

“As users of the radio, we shall take advantage of the tool to help solve crimes in the province of Lanao,” Lucero said.

Taking advantage of his presence and that of P/Sr. Supt. Romeo Magsalos, director of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office, an open forum was held regarding security issues in the area.

Some of the issues clarified were abut the discreet construction of hardened gun-fighting positions inside private buildings, which accordingly implied the ill-intent of the owners.

Another was the ill-constructed road humps that restrict flow of traffic, which Lucero said, was properly acted upon by the army in coordination with the police, especially in the Lumba Bayabao area.

Initiated by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), some 300 members, from 20 various radio clubs in the province, attended the training, which was aimed to educate the radio operators on how to contribute for the good of the communities.

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How to solve “Rido” tops concern of Lanao del Sur peace advocates

PICONG, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 11 (PIA) --- Problems on how to solve "rido" or family feud topped the concerns of some 300 delegates from various sectors who attended the Multi-Sectoral Peace Forum at the municipal gymnasium, here, last November 8.

Jointly organized by the Philippine Army (PA) and the local government unit (LGU) of Picong, the delegates mostly sectoral leaders, showed their commitment to support the campaign against lawlessness, "rido," and promotion of the observance of the justice system and support to the authorities.

Picong Mayor Alinader M. Balindong led the civilian delegates while Col. Daniel A. Lucero, Commander of 103rdBrigade (103Bde), PA led the security sector.

Several speakers shared their programs to the participants, like Lt. Col. Ceasar Marlon M. Yadao, Commander of 51st Infantry Battalion (51IB) and the main organizer of the event who discussed the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan (unity and cooperation)” of the Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP).

This was followed by a sharing about the campaign against illegal drugs by Feliciano Alejandro A. Serino II of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Likewise, delegates from the International Monitoring Team (IMT) -Mindanao discussed the peace process mechanisms and their campaign on non-violence, while discussions on religious matters and the Local Government Code were shared by concerned sectoral representatives.

The participants were also given a chance to give questions according to the lectures, most of which were centered on how to resolve “Rido,” which is a problem besetting the peace in the province.

In addition to the activities, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed by the various sectoral leaders to show their commitment of support to the campaign against lawlessness, “Rido” and promotion of the observance of the justice system and support to the authorities of Picong.

Another MOA was, likewise, signed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) represented by the Picong Municipal Police Station Commander and the 51IB for the creation of a Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center for Picong.

Meanwhile, the 103Bde Commander, who was the guest of honor and speaker, emphasized the role of the Army, particularly, his troops as protectors of the Maranaos.

He, likewise, assured the people that all soldiers under his command had to undergo a Cultural Sensitivity Seminar before being deployed.

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Muslim Filipinos celebrate Eidul-Adha

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 6 (PIA) --- Muslims all over the country observed today Eidul Adha with religious fervour and renewed spirit of sacrifice.

They have gathered in their respective local mosques where the Eidul Adha congregational prayers were offered.

One of the two Islamic Festivals, Eidul Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice commemorates the great act of sacrifice Abraham (Ibrahim among Muslims) was willing to make in order to submit to the will of Allah.

Muslims celebrate this occasion to remember the willingness of Abrahan to sacrifice his son Ishamel as an act of obedience to God, said Aleem Khairuddin Hanapi.

He said before Abraham was able to sacrifice his son, Allah replaced Ishmael with a sheep, thus, sparing his life.

That is why Muslims remember this momentous event by sacrificing a sheep, camel, cow or goat, and sharing the meat from the sacrifice to others, especially the poor, he added.

Meanwhile, President Benigno S. Aquino III, has praised Muslim Filipinos for their earnest conviction for their beliefs and steadfast fulfillment of their religious obligations citing these as an inspiration to their fellow countrymen.

In his Eidul Adha message, the President said Eidul Adha is a reflection of a tale about unconditional trust reminding Muslim Filipinos that sacrifice is a test of one's principles amid the challenges and complexities of life.

This occasion also imparts the lesson of courage, motivating a believer to be more accepting of the trials along the way of his enlightenment, he added.

Furthermore, the President also expressed hope that Muslim Filipinos will remain committed in helping create an environment of stability through harmonious relations among all Filipinos.

In line with the celebration, President Aquino has declared November 7, 2011 as a regular holiday throughout the country in order to bring the religious and cultural significance of the Eidul Adha to the fore of national consciousness.

Eidul Adha is the 12^th regular holiday being observed

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Lanao del Sur holds 2nd coop congress

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 4 (PIA) -- Close to 200 cooperative members in the province converged here, recently, to advance the cooperative movement in this part of the country.

Organized by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), in collaboration with the Provincial Cooperative Office, the 2nd Lanao del Sur Cooperative Congress aimed at raising public consciousness on the contributions of cooperatives on the socio-economic development of the country.

Anchored on the theme “Kazalimbutad A Kapamagogopa: Kambayorantang, Kapuromasay, Kaphiaphia, Kathigur Ago Kapanglimbabaan Para Ko Lalayon A Kalilintad Ago Kathagompia (Transformative Cooperative: Advancing People, Planet, Prosperity and Peace),” the congress also aimed to promote the spirit of cooperativism as a vehicle for social transformation for the people, planet, prosperity and peace.

“The theme is fittingly appropriate as this advocacy is never an affair of the government, alone, but also the concern of all stakeholders of the society, especially the people themselves,” expressed Lanao del Sur First District Representative Hussein Pacasum-Pangandaman.

He said the promotion of cooperatives is one of the major interventions of the government to minimize, if not totally eradicate, poverty.

By enhancing the capabilities of non-government organizations, livelihood associations, people’s organizations such as cooperatives, and self-help groupings dedicated to the people, the government is building-up the capacity of the masses, he added.

Pangandaman, who was the keynote speaker of the coop congress, also underscored that active participation and strong adherence to the spirit of cooperativism is the one of the necessary ingredients to achieve prosperity and peace.

He said what is admirable in the cooperative is that it will only decide in favor of the common good and not on a particular person’s vested interest.

Hence, he expressed the need for strong cooperatives that are guided by transparency and accountability to ensure that the cooperatives’ interest will prevail in the community.

Pangandaman also urged the participants to transform into cooperative efforts the admirable culture and tradition of Maranaos towards the concept of “kapamagogopa,” a Mranao term which means helping one another for prosperity and peace within the challenging environment.

Meanwhile, Mindanao State University (MSU) Director for Research and Extension Dr. Amer A. Comadug, has expressed commitment to support the CDA in its agenda of advancing human resource development.

He said MSU, through technical assistance, will assist CDA and the newly-organized Cooperative Union of Lanao del Sur in enhancing their skills and capabilities to make them effective in carrying out endeavors to advance cooperativism.

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Lanao officials hail PNoy’s “no all-out war” stand

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Coop Union in Lanao del Sur urges GPH-MILF to continue peace talks

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CDA targets expansion of cooperative membership

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 2 (PIA) -- The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) is planning for the massive expansion of cooperative membership in this province.

Lawyer Paisalin Tago, CDA Administrator for Mindanao, said one of the agenda of the authority is to increase the total membership to 20 million by 2013, compared to the current total membership of more than seven (7) million, only.

He said the CDA is encouraging cooperatives to register again, as mandated by Republic Act 9520, citing that currently only more than 20,000 cooperatives are registered compared to the more than 90,000 registered cooperatives before the enactment of the new cooperative code.

One of the speakers during the recent second provincial cooperative congress held at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol, here, Tago emphasized that putting up a cooperative is a solution to minimize poverty, reduce unemployment, and promote peace and order.

he disclosed that they are also eyeing conversion of the so-called electric cooperatives (ECs) into genuine cooperatives as a strategy to increase membership.

Under RA 9520, ECs cannot enjoy the privilege of tax exemption unless they are registered with the CDA and registering will mean the member-consumers of ECs will then and there become cooperative members.

Aside from the expansion in membership, the CDA will also boost and enhance its delivery mechanism and provide an enabling environment for the strengthening and development of cooperatives in the country.

As provided in the Philippine Cooperative Medium-Term Development Plan (PCMTDP) for 2011-2016, the CDA will ensure access of cooperatives to global markets, provide viable linkages and networks to support cooperatives and establish appropriate quality system.

It will also create appropriate environment for partnership among cooperatives, both local and international, local government units (LGUs), national line agencies, non-government organizations, people's organizations, and the private sector.

Such policies will ensure viable, competitive and sustainable cooperatives as engine of growth and development.

Furthermore, CDA will also promote cooperativism as the vehicle for social transformation to build strategic and synergistic alliances between and among stakeholders in the cooperative industry.

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Lanao Sur Police Chief says crime prevention is a community effort

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Oct 14 (PIA) --- Deterring criminality is not the sole job of the police and the military, rather, it should involve the active participation of the whole community.

This was pointed-out by Police Senior Superintendent Romeo Magsalos, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (LSPPO), who said the fight against criminality in the province is everybody’s responsibility.

Magsalos said President Benigno S. Aquino III has ordered the re-activation of the Joint Philippine National Police-Armed Forces of the Philippines (PNP-AFP) Task Force Ranao to address the lawlessness and criminalities in the province, last month.

He said the residents should change their perception on crime prevention and should not rely solely on the Joint PNP-AFP Task Force Ranao.

He emphasized that every member of the community should be a stakeholder of peace and order since each member plays an important role in preventing the commission of crimes in the province.

For instance, parents should teach their children good values so that they will become good citizens while students should study hard, so that they can earn their diplomas and become productive citizens of the community, he further said.

Magsalos added that the public should also be vigilant and should not allow themselves to be victims of crimes.

They should also avoid wearing jewelries when going to supermarket or displaying their cellular phones in public places, he cited.

He also asked the public to report to the police authorities’ suspicious looking individuals and criminal activities in the area.

Don’t be negligent citizens, immediately report suspicious activity at the nearest police station, he urged.

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DepEd inks partnerships in Lanao del Sur to sustain health care program

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Oct. 8 (PIA) --- The five schools divisions in the province have forged partnership with the provincial government and the Fit For School, Inc. (FFSI) to ensure the sustainability of the Essential Health Care Program (EHCP).

The memorandum of agreement (MoA) was signed by the parties during the EHCP launching, at the Bacolod Central Pilot School in Bacolod Kalawi town, this province, last Oct. 6.

The EHCP consists of the most cost-effective and evidence-based preventive interventions to improve the health of school children in public schools, thus, improving their academic performance.

A flagship program of the Department of Education (DepEd), the EHCP has been a success in improving the health of thousands of school children in 73 provinces in the country.

It includes the implementation of daily soap hand washing and daily fluoride tooth brushing, mass bi-annual de-worming of children, as well, as improving water and sanitation facilities in public elementary schools and day care centers.

Under the MoA, the schools divisions of Lanao del Sur I-A, I-B, II-A and II-B, and that of Marawi City agreed to undertake the implementation of EHCP and to ensure that its interventions are practiced through daily group activities included in the Daily Class Program.

The provincial government, on the other hand, will provide financial support and ensure timely procurement and delivery of needed materials, such as, toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap, for use in schools.

Also, it will take immediate action in ensuring the accessibility of water in the identified schools and work for the sustainability of the programs by way of ordinance or any other long term solution.

Meanwhile, FFSI will assist the DepEd and the local government unit in the proper implementation of the EHCP by providing capacity building and technical assistance in the development of training and monitoring modules.

It will also provide information, education and communication (IEC) materials and support the health and education sectors in the promotion and management of school-based health programs.

Signatories of the MoA included Superintendents Normillah Pangandaman, Sangcad Benito, Zenaida Ampatua, Lawanbai Macacua, and Pharida Sansarona for Lanao del Sur I-A, I-B, II-A and II-B, and the Marawi City School Divisions, respectively, First Lady Raifa Adiong, represented Provincial Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., and Cromwell Bacareza, FFSI Director of Operations.

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Haribon Brigade donates chairs to Madrasah school anew

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Oct. 7 (PIA) --- Another Madrasah school, here, has received 40 quality school chairs from the 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade, Philippine Army.

The donation to the Lanao Islamic Paramedical College Foundation Inc. (LIPCFI), held yesterday at the school lobby, was made through the 64th Infantry (Knights) Battallion, one of the operationally controlled units of the Haribon Brigade.

Lt. Col. Dario C. Bucawit, Commander of 64IB, said the chairs was constructed by his soldiers utilizing the confiscated fletches of lumber yielded from illegal logging.

He said the donation of school chairs was made to strengthen the relationship between the school and military citing that it is one way of showing how soldiers give back to the community the services they deserve.

It is also in line with the current Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) dubbed as “Bayanihan” which is designed to win the peace in every corner of the country, he said.

Meanwhile, one of the students has expressed appreciation to the Philippine Army, particularly, 64IB and 103rd Bde for donating the school chairs.

“I am very happy that they have chosen our school, among other schools in Marawi City, to be the recipient of these school chairs,” expressed Eden Camsa.

On the other hand, Bucawit has assured the school administration of their assistance in any way possible emphasizing that the military presence in the city is not solely to pursue those individuals who have violated the people’s rights but also to render government services to the people.

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School children in Lanao del Sur to benefit from Health Care Program

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Oct. 6 (PIA) -- School children in the province will benefit from the Essential Health Care Program (EHCP), a national flagship health program of the Department of Education (DepEd).

The EHCP which consists of preventive interventions to improve child health was officially launched today at Bacolod Central Pilot School in Bacolod Kalawi town, this province.

Spearheaded by the DepEd in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), the launching was held in cooperation with the provincial government, and the Fit For School Inc., a non-government organization that works closely with the health and education sectors, various development agencies, and private partners to effectively promote, implement and sustain the EHCP in public elementary schools.

Fit For School, Inc. Program Coordinator Jennylyn B. Aguinaldo said the EHCP will be piloted in seven schools divisions in ARMM, five of which are from Lanao del Sur and that 25 out of the 35 school-beneficiaries are located in the province.

Meanwhile, the program includes the implementation of the proper daily soap hand washing and daily fluoride tooth brushing, which were demonstrated to the school children.

It also includes the mass bi-annual de-worming of children, as well, as improving water and sanitation facilities in public elementary schools and day care centers.

“This simple and cost-effective program has been proven to be effective in reducing the spread of infectious diseases and rate of tooth decay among children, ultimately creating positive impacts on a child’s school attendance,” she said.

She said the scaling-up of the EHCP in the ARMM is also related to the Basic Education Assistance in Mindanao (BEAM) program and made possible with the support from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.

During the launching, EHCP packages, consisting of toothpaste, toothbrush, and soap were turned-over to the Bacolod Central Pilot School.

To formalize the commitment to implement and sustain the program in the province, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed by the representatives of the provincial government and Fit For School Inc., as well, as the Schools Division Superintendents of Lanao Del Sur I-A, I-B, II-A, II-B, and Marawi City Division.

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Anti-kidnapping task force to establish peace in Mindanao

QUEZON CITY, Sept. 25 (PIA) -- Government officials expressed confidence that with the reactivation of a combined anti-kidnapping task force will help establish peace and stability in Mindanao.

Government officials led by Department of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin, Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Oban, and Philippine National Police Chief Nicanor Bartolome on Thursday, September 22 formally reactivated the Joint PNP-AFP Task Force Ranao in Marawi City.

PNP chief Bartolome said the reactivation of the joint task force in Central Mindanao manifests the strong-willed response of the government to fight criminal syndicates and armed groups who are behind kidnapping incidents in Cotabato City and other provinces of Central Mindanao.

“Task Force Ranao manifests the commitment of both the police and military to lay foundations of peace and order in Mindanao that will eventually allow socio-economic development initiatives of government to take place in the promise land,” Bartolome said.

The PNP also cited that local government and community support, as well as police and military partnerships, are tried and tested formula in ensuring public safety.

According to the PNP, the creation of Task Force Ranao is stipulated in the Joint PNP-AFP Letter of Instruction No. 01-2011 issued in May this year upon instructions of President Benigno S. Aquino III to stem the rising cases of kidnapping in Central Mindanao.

Deputy Director for Integrated Police Operations in Western Mindanao (DIPO-WM) chief Superintendent Francisco Cristobal was named Task Force commander and will be joined by Col. Daniel Lucero, commander of the Army’s 104th Brigade act as Deputy Task Force Commander.

Meanwhile, Bartolome said the police component of the Task Force will include police commandos of the Special Action Force (SAF) and the Regional Public Safety Battalions of Police Regional Office 12 and ARMM.

Likewise, intelligence and investigative support will come from the Police Anti-Crime and Emergency Response (PACER), Intelligence Group (IG), and backed by a legal component from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and PNP Legal Service. (PNP/PIA-NCR/RJB/JEG)

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Haribon Brigade donates chairs for a Madrasah in Lanao del Sur

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Sept 15 (PIA) -- The 133rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade of the 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, here, has donated 45 sets of high quality armchairs for a Madrasah school in Maguing town, this province.

The armchairs were made out of the illegally cut lumber confiscated during the conduct of checkpoint operations along the main highways of the province.

The donation, which took place, last Sept. 9, at the 103rd Bde headquarters, was part of the continuous support of the unit to the local government agencies in the province.

Col. Danilo A. Lucero, Commander of the 103rd Bde, said it is one of the few programs and efforts of the Haribon Brigade and the Army, as a whole, to address the current needs of the Madrasahs and in pursuit of respect to the local culture in the province.

Meanwhile, employees of the Madrasah have expressed appreciation to the men and women of the Brigade for the armchairs.

“I am very glad and thankful that our soldiers under 103rd Infantry Brigade were kind enough to donate a number of armchairs which is really of big help to our Madrasah students,” said Ibrahim Macauday, a native of Maguing town and an employee of the Madrasah.

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