Lanao del Sur PNP prepares for 2022 polls

Police Colonel Christopher Wilan Panapan, OIC Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (LDSPPO), reports that their preparations for the upcoming national and local elections have started. (Micheal John Paclar/PIA Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY—Police authorities in the province of Lanao del Sur started to make security preparations to prevent election violence that would compromise the integrity of the 2022 national and local elections.

Police Colonel Christopher Wilan Panapan, OIC Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (LDSPPO), said they are now identifying potential election hotspots or ‘areas of concern’ and monitoring areas with intense political rivalry

During the 3rd quarter meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council Thursday, October 28, Panapan reported that the municipalities of Malabang, Ganassi, Pualas, Bayang, and Lumbaca Unayan are initially assessed to have intense political rivalries.

The LDSPPO chief said they have conducted a simulation exercise on condition situation response system or CSRS to test their operational readiness and capabilities in the event a crisis would occur during the elections.

The city and municipal police stations were also directed to submit their deployment plan for the upcoming polls.

A total of 12 election violent incidents transpired during the 2016 polls while 11 incidents were recorded during the 2019 elections.

Currently, the entire province remains generally peaceful. Panapan attributed this to the collaborative efforts of the police and army authorities as well as other law enforcement agencies, local government units, and other stakeholders. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur) 

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MSU champions ‘leveled up’ research extension, prod’n

 

Mindanao State University (MSU) 7th System President Dr. Habib Macaayong brings in his State of the University Address the stepped-up research extension and production of the university. (Angelo D. Dologmandin/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur --The Mindanao State University (MSU) is now promoting its leveled-up research culture comprising the research extension and production with the incorporation of various developments.

“Resolutely in pursuit of the aspired-for world-class status, the university, on my watch, boldly changed gear to give more substantive support to the creation of a culture of research, to the transformation of the institution into a Research University, which has been the trend in leading global universities,” said MSU System President Dr. Habib Macaayong.

He said the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research Extension (OVCRE) has been expanded to include development, now making it Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension and Development (OVCRED). 

Macaayong added that his administration offered a stimulus package for faculty researchers wherein the university gives subsidy for travels abroad to present research papers and a generous cash incentive for research work published in internationally recognized journals and in the newly launched two university journals for scholarly papers, to wit, the ASEAN Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (AJOSSH) and ASEAN Journal of Science and Technology (AJOST), while their usual workload is reduced.  

He also noted that the first year of his tenure logged the largest number of faculty granted with travel authority here and abroad as paper presenters in conferences. 

“This remarkable spike is a testimony to vibrant, dynamic scholarly engagements and the enthusiasm to join the adventure of discovering and generating fresh knowledge on which the vitality and relevance of the University hinges,” said Macaayong.

He further cited that traditional researches like the annual fish-stocking of the lake and the College of Fisheries faculty’s study on the conditions of the lake and its various species continue while other campuses such as the MSU-Naawas and Tawi-tawi eye environmental works which are common concerns of the entire system.

Meanwhile, Macaayong highlighted the university’s stepped-up research production, hitting record levels with numerous partnerships between various agencies and foreign universities.   

He said regional, national and international conferences on a broad suite of global issues were held as collaborative projects wherein the institution’s image is promoted both in local and international communities in the form of academic and research collaboration with other universities in Kastamonu in Turkey, in New York in the United States of America (USA), in the Middle East, and in Southeast Asia.

Further, the university has also entered into memoranda of agreement with over a hundred universities in Indonesia and in Malaysia.  

The President recognized that although the benefits accruing from said MOUs are yet to be enjoyed, he is optimistic that such advantages will be maximized to the extent. 

“Know that in due time, the university shall be able to harness these, especially the sharing of resources through faculty exchange and collaborative research projects,” said Macaayong. (CRG/PIA-Lanao del Sur

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Macaayong underscores MSU system’s administrative reforms

In his State of the University Address, Mindanao State University (MSU) System President Dr. Habib Macaayong emphasizes that the administrative department is also vital in the operation of the institution. (Angelo D. Dologmandin/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--Apart from the academic reforms and development, the Mindanao State University (MSU) has further boosted its administrative aspect making it one of the most highlighted progress of the system.

MSU System President Dr. Habib Macaayong underscored during his State of the University Address Wednesday, October 27, that the administrative personnel are similarly significant in the operation of the university as they also provide critical services.

“We are all aware that administrative employees provide the basic yet vital support services necessary to keep an organization, and indeed, a university system, in good working form. It is therefore only fair that our hardworking and resilient administrative staff be granted the support and opportunities for development that they rightfully deserve,” he said.

Macaayong shared that his administration has taken steps since his assumption of duty until the present wherein they reactivated the Merit Selection Board responsible for the hiring and promotion of the administrative staff, and approved the Merit Selection Plan of the university to ensure that only best and committed employees will comprise the ranks of administrative and support staff of the university system. 

He added that the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC’s) massive attestation of the administrative staff particularly in MSU-Main Campus was pushed while more administrative workers were sent to actively attend training facilitated by the same commission to keep them updated, equipped to perform their tasks and work, and help them develop their potentials professionally.

Macaayong also said they facilitated the creation of a Quality Assurance and Management Office to help monitor the efficient operations of the offices in the university, and created an atmosphere conducive for administrative employees by renovating workstations and procuring additional office facilities, furniture and electronic equipment to pave the way for more efficient service. 

The president stressed that such reforms benefit all campuses under the system’s umbrella. (CRG/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

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MSU bolsters academic excellence thru reformation, dev’t

Mindanao State University (MSU) System President Dr. Habib Macaayong presents academic reformation and development to boost their delivery of quality education. (Angelo D. Dologmandin/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur --To sustain the missioned legacy of delivering quality education, the Mindanao State University (MSU) advocated for reformation and development to achieve academic excellence. 

“I added what amounted to administrative and academic reform gearing up or attuning academic programs to the demands of the 21st century,” said MSU System President Dr. Habib Macaayong in his State of the University Address Wednesday, October 27.

He stressed that a system-wide curricular revision was initiated primarily to keep abreast of global trends and new directions in addition to streamlining and enrichment of the educational arena while new academic programs including the Master in EcoGovernance and Social Forestry, and Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and Governance have been approved by the Board of Regents (BOR) which are now ready for implementation.

Macaayong shared that the system is currently undergoing massive accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) and has applied for International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certification while quality management through monitoring of faculty performance in terms of efficiency and effectiveness has been carried out more rigorously and methodically.

He emphasized that his administration has been aggressive in pursuing faculty development through offering scholarship programs enabling deserving faculty to undertake master’s and doctorate studies and faculty exchange programs are afforded through executing memoranda of agreement and other more partnerships between the institution and various universities in the country and abroad.

Recently, the MSU extended the geographic reach of its system by opening two extension campuses situated respectively in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, and in Bataraza, Palawan. 

Moreover, radical changes were effected in college programs, particularly the College of Medicine and College of Law wherein a more competitive scheme of remuneration for lecturers in these two colleges was proposed and approved by the BOR. 

“The rationale for this was not only equity, but for it to serve as an attraction policy to lure the most fit applicants in the field. In addition to this, applicants for faculty positions in the College of Law, given their J.D. title, are now entitled to the entry rank of Associate Professor,” said Macaayong.

He added that under his six-year tenure, nearly 900 faculty have been promoted.

Macaayong, who is the university’s 7th regular system president overseeing a total of 14 school branches, stressed that while these campuses enjoy different degrees of autonomy, specifically fiscal autonomy, everyone has to operate as a system. 

“We abide by the same ideals, standards, and values, such as commitment to quality education and excellence, academic freedom, meritocracy, and work ethics. We are governed by the same set of policies, especially in matters of recruitment, ranking, promotion, and awarding of tenure to the faculty,” he said. (CRG/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

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MSU remains strong despite siege, COVID-19 challenges

MSU System President Habib W. Macaayong shares the achievements during his administration including the promotion of 900 faculty; implementation of new academic programs like Master in EcoGovernance and Social Forestry, Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and Governance, and Fundamentals of Peace Education; adoption of Strategic Performance Management System; infrastructure development; ICT modernization; and student scholarships; among others.

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur -The Mindanao State University (MSU) System has remained steadfast and tenacious despite the two turbulent storms that visited the institution.

MSU System President Habib W. Macaayong declared the institution victorious  despite the Marawi siege and the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic during his State of University Address, Wednesday, October 27.

"Although for others, mere survival was enough achievement, the University did more than survive and stay on track. It went all-out in flight forward mode. Through these challenging times, we have always looked forward ahead and we keep bravely forging on," he said.

Macaayong spoke on a variety of achievements during his administration including the promotion of 900 faculty; implementation of new academic programs like Master in EcoGovernance and Social Forestry, Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and Governance, and Fundamentals of Peace Education; adoption of Strategic Performance Management System; infrastructure development; ICT modernization; and student scholarships; among others.

The MSU system president also reported the implementation of a competitive scheme of remuneration for lecturers in the College of Law and College of Medicine.  "The rationale for this was not only equity, but for it to serve as an attraction policy to lure the most fit applicants in the field," he said.

Moreover, applicants for faculty positions in the College of Law, given their Juris Doctor (J.D.) title, are now entitled to the entry rank of Associate Professor.   

Macaayong also highlighted the extension of the geographic reach of the System by opening two extension campuses in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte and Bataraza, Palawan to provide educational opportunities to youth in far-flung areas.

"Since the inception of this institution, we have constantly referred to our area of operation and responsibility as ranging from Mindanao and Sulu to Palawan. But, sadly, Palawan has never been part of the picture. Thus, the opening of an extension campus in Palawan is the long-overdue realization of a dream," he further said.

Macaayong further cited the valuable role MSU has played in helping uplift the lives of Marawi residents by assisting displaced students and opening opportunities for local professionals to pursue advance degrees in science and technology.

According to him, 200 students and 30 science faculty were recipients of  Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI )grant. The DOST-SEI  also named MSU as a delivering institution and continues to dispense scholarship grants to MSU students who pass the required screening.  

Other sources of assistance for students are the national government through Commission on Higher Education for the Tertiary Education Subsidy, Development Bank of the Philippines, and the Dompet Dhuafa Republic Foundation based in Jakarta. In addition, 400 students were also recipients of a Chinese scholarship grant.

MSU also made a big stride in promoting and preserving the unique, rich cultural heritage of the Muslim groups and Indigenous Peoples of MINSUPALA through the establishment of the Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center.

Macaayong said the center has relentlessly engaged cultural mapping; research on the various aspects of Meranaw Culture; engaging traditional leaders and Bai’s in the mission of preserving Meranaw cultural heritage.

It is also promoting the living traditions of weaving, poetry, katharo sa lalag; valorization of the Meranaw Language; work on standardization of Meranaw Language orthography; and publication of the Meranaw Culture Coffee Table Book and Manga Forms of select episodes of the epic Darangen. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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MSU fosters culture of peace through PeaceEd

MSU System President Habib W. Macaayong delivers his State of University Address highlighting the various developments achieved by the university during his administration particularly on academic and administrative reforms, research, extension and production; peace; infrastructure; and cooperation between the university and the community.

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur --The Mindanao State University (MSU) System has institutionalized peace education programs and inculcated peace concepts in its curriculum to promote a culture of peace among its students.

One of its trailblazing peace programs was the development of the course Fundamentals of Peace Education conceptualized after the Marawi crisis as a way to increase the resiliency of students to threats from extremist ideology. 

"A precipitating factor was the Marawi siege and the heightened awareness of the ever-present threat of violent extremism and terrorism, and of the urgency of pro-actively combatting this threat through education," said MSU System President Habib W. Macaayong during his State of University Address.

The course is now implemented system-wide as a general requirement for university students.

Macaayong said selected faculty in the various colleges of the MSU main campus and in the 14 MSU campuses underwent rigorous trainings on peace education sponsored by the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies based in Siem Rep, Cambodia and the U.S. Embassy in Manila, among others.

Macaayong, the 7th regular MSU President, gave his first State of the University Address on Wednesday, October 27, where he spoke on the various development achieved by the university during his administration particularly on academic and administrative reforms, research, extension and production; peace; infrastructure; and cooperation between the university and the community. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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MSU ramps up digital transformation

MSU System President Habib W. Macaayong bares during his State of University Address the ICT modernization program of the institution. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--Eyeing to transform into a smart campus in the future, the Mindanao State University (MSU) has embarked on an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) modernization program.

Funded through the Presidential Discretionary Fund, the P2 Billion program covers the modernization of the university data center, campus management system, learning management system, provision of laptops to all faculty and students including some of the administrative employees, and boosting its internet connectivity.

MSU System President Habib W. Macaayong said the program also includes the construction and installation of necessary IT equipment and facilities.

"These are the construction of a new audio-visual room, creation of an E-library, creation of E-classrooms in all colleges, the creation of integrated laboratory schools, and the installation of the internal CCTVs," he said during his State of University Address, Wednesday, October 27.

A total of 15,00 laptops were already distributed to students and employees under the program. The 500 units were distributed during the first phase of the program implementation while around 14,500 units were released during the second phase of the program of which 10,444 are for students and  3,103 are for MSU employees.

500 desktops and a number of Smart TVs will also be given to the office and colleges of the university.

The MSU system is also gearing to upgrade its internet connectivity. Yellow hoses, the protective cases for the installation of wirings that boost internet speed up to 1GB per second, are being installed underground. 

Moreover, multiple nodes connecting the whole campus via hybrid fiber optics and wireless backbone are now being created as well.

Macaayong assured that MSU's ICT modernization will continue in the coming years covering the construction of the IT buildings in all external units or Community High Schools of the university.  (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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Bangsamoro gov't reaches out to youth returnees

Some participants of the Youth Awareness and Resiliency Summit pose with MP Atty. Maisara Damdamun-Latiph. (Office of MP Latiph)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--To determine the assistance to be provided to youth who laid down their arms to become productive and law-abiding members of society, the Bangsamoro government through the Office of Member of Parliament (MP) Atty. Maisara Damdamun-Latiph spearheaded a summit on youth awareness and resiliency, October 22.

Aside from ISIS youth returnees, the summit was also participated by youth relatives of returnees, youth affected during a municipal siege or armed conflict, and youth from remote villages in the towns of Pagayawan, Lumbaca Unayan, Lumbayanague, and Madamba.

MP Latiph said the summit aims to reach out to the youth, determine their needs, connect them to livelihood opportunities, and free their mind from radicalization.

According to her, the activity is in response to President Duterte's Administrative Order (AO) 25 which expanded the coverage of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to include former violent extremists.

The said AO mandates the government to provide a complete package of assistance to former rebels and former violent extremists specifically tailored to their needs and those of their respective communities

During the summit, the youth participants were engaged in a series of discussions with peace advocates on the Bangsamoro struggle, Bangsamoro Parliamentary Government, preventing and countering violent extremism, and the fight against drug addiction and criminality, among others. 

They also underwent leadership and team-building activities and a peace project proposal workshop where each municipality received P20,000 grant for their project.

"This is very interesting kasi it is the first time that we will be able to engage with them after the siege. Doon sa workshop, ma define ano yung gusto nila kasi ayaw ko na ako ang magsabi, gusto ko sa kanila mismo manggaling [What they want can be defined in the workshop, I don't want to be the one saying it, they should identify what they need themselves]," she said.

For education concerns, MP Latiph said she can allocate a budget for skills training with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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Islamic Relief PH gives educational aid to Marawi schools

Learners of the Ibango Central Elementary School (ICES) in Brgy. East Rorogagus in Marawi City receive educational support from the Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) - Philippines with donations from IRW-USA. (Claire R. Gigje/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--With the major goal of assisting in the continuous delivery of quality education here despite the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic, the Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) - Philippines in partnership with the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and the Bangsamoro Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) extended educational aid to schools in the city benefitting both educators and students.

Through its Support to Education and Empowerment of Vulnerable Children affected by Conflict and COVID-19 (SEEVCAC) Project with donations from the IRW-USA, the IRW-Philippines provided kits to learners and teachers of Ibango Central Elementary School (ICES) in Brgy. East Rorogagus and City Schools Division Thursday, October 21, and of Saksi Learning School (SLS) in Brgy. Cadayonan Friday, October 22.

IRW-Philippines Area Programme Manager Sittie Jamairah Disomimba said that while they recognize the children as the most vulnerable sector today, they are directly addressing their needs and the community that surrounds them believing that if the community and their parents are well taken care of, the children in return will also be attended, and vice versa.

“This is to support them as we understand that due to the pandemic, the livelihood of the parents is affected. So, what we are doing right now is supporting the school learners so that we can also support the parents by keeping those children or learners in school,” she said.

Disomimba shared that of their three projects for the province of Lanao del Sur, this recent effort which started in November 2020 is a support for the education and empowerment of vulnerable children affected by conflict and aggravated by COVID-19.

Here, school supplies for learners in addition to their monthly stipend or allowances for the whole school year covering 320 beneficiaries were also provided while teachers were given their own kits, soft support through a series of training and other needs for the current mode of delivery in education which is modular learning.

The Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) - Philippines through donations from IRW-USA gives supplies and other necessary facilities to teachers of target schools, including Ibango Central Elementary School (ICES) and Saksi Learning School (SLS) both in Marawi City, and the Marawi City Schools Division. (Claire R. Gigje/PIA-Lanao del Sur

With the pandemic, the manager emphasized that more school support is rendered as specific and unusual needs arise.

Disomimba also said that the ICES which noted a 15% increase in its enrollees as of September this year has been provided with a water system, hand washing facility, printers, and other equipment while the Learning Resources Management and Development System (LRMDS) of the city schools division, being the research unit where modules distributed to various schools originate, was likewise supported.

The SLS, on the other hand, had a different kind of assistance as it is an Arabic boarding school and students are living inside the campus. As such, they received living-in facilities like chest freezers and beds, among others.

Disomimba said overall they have aided a total of 385 learners both from the ICES and the SLS and 35 teachers.

She emphasized that although this is a one-year project, it is not yet concluded as the nature of such is a series of assistance wherein more projects may come depending on the necessities of the community and submitted proposals.

“We are here to make an impact… We are a partner in development and we are here to serve you,” said Disomimba. (CRG/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

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MP Latiph ensures no Bangsamoro learner is left behind, turns over "Siyap ko Kapaganad to LDS schools divisions

Dr. Anna Zenaida Unte Alonto, Marawi City Schools Division Superintendent receives the key of responsibility from Member of Parliament Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph for the "Siyap Ko Kapaganad" Program. The program was launched last December 3, 2020 and has been helping students and parents who are still coping up with the new modular learning/online learning in this time of the pandemic. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--Ensuring that all possible means are exhausted so that no Bangsamoro learner will be left behind as the nation continues to fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, the Office of Member of Parliament Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph turned over the "Siyap Ko Kapaganad" program to the three schools divisions in the province.

The program which means "care for education" was launched on December 3, 2020 to make education accessible for all learners by providing educational resources such as modules and instructional videos.

MP Latiph said they started the program in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and one of the solutions that they came up with when they were thinking about the Bangsamoro children was an online distance learning program.

"Naisip namin na through the videos, mayroon teachers silang nakikita and at the same time, they would be able to look at their modules and learn together with the video. So mayroon pa rin silang teacher na magtuturo sa kanila at magmomotivate sa kanila na mag-aral," she said.

[We thought that through the videos, they can see the teachers, and at the same time, they would be able to look at their modules and learn together with the video. So they still have a teacher who will teach them and motivate them to study.]

MP Latiph said learning through the videos would not be difficult for the children as they can replay the videos. The videos are also easily accessible and can be viewed through the Siyap ko Kapaganad Facebook page or the kapaganad.com website. The contents can also be downloaded and saved in a flash drive.

For the program to kick off smoothly, the Office of MP Latiph extended technical assistance in terms of website design and management. It also provided financial assistance for ICT focal persons and coordinators per schools divisions and internet load for teachers who serve as content producers. 

A total of 187 videos on Arabic, English, K to 12, Science, and Math curriculum have been produced since the program inception.

As she turned over the Siyap ko Kapaganad program to the three schools divisions in Lanao del Sur, Member of Parliament Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph expresses her hope for the divisions to use the program to open new opportunities and hopes for the Bangsamoro children. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA Lanao del Sur)

Sustaining Siyap ko Kapaganad 

The Siyap ko Kapaganad program was officially turned over by MP Latiph to Lanao del Sur I, Lanao del Sur II, and Marawi City Schools Divisions on Friday, October 22, for them to sustain the program.

"As we turn over the responsibility of the Siyap ko Kapaganad to your respective divisions, I hope and I pray that you would use it to open new opportunities and hopes for our children. May it become your key for more quality, relevant, effective education, and may this be one of the reasons our children in the Bangsamoro continue to strive towards achieving dreams," MP Latiph said to the recipient schools divisions.

Meanwhile, officials of the three schools divisions expressed their gratitude to MP Latiph and vowed to sustain the program as they saw its positive impacts and heard good feedbacks from stakeholders.

Dr. Jamaila Kapampangan-Marohomsalic, Asst. Schools Division Superintendent for Senior High School of Lanao del Sur II Schools Division, said they included the program in their learning continuity plan and a memorandum will be crafted requiring all capable schools under the division to submit their assigned subject grade level videos that will be utilized for the program.

"It (Siyap Ko Kapaganad) helped our teachers and our learners surpass somehow the challenges brought by COVID-19. The videos are being utilized, most especially to our early grade learners. This will serve as one supplementary strategy in the teaching and learning process," she said.

Dr. Jamaila Kapampangan-Marohomsalic, Asst. Schools Division Superintendent for Senior High School of Lanao del Sur II Schools Division shares that the Siyap Ko Kapaganad has helped their teachers and learners surpass the challenges brought by COVID-19. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA Lanao del Sur)

Dr. Mu’minah Mumbao Abdul, Asst. Schools Division Superintendent of Lanao del Sur I Schools Division said they will continue to work hand in hand with other schools divisions to bridge education gaps in the province.

Dr. Anna Zenaida Unte Alonto, Marawi City Schools Division Superintendent, also conveyed her thanks for the program as it has given teachers time to shine and break free from their classroom and from all the agitation, distress, and anxiety in this time of the pandemic. 

"As of now, hindi pa po normal ang education sa [education is not yet normal in] Marawi City and we need partners in the delivery of education until our last displaced child is transitioned to a regular and permanent school," she said. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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Bangsamoro Parliament commends Siyap ko Kapaganad content producers

Member of Parliament Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph hands over a plaque of recognition and Samsung Tablet to one of the winners for Best Content Producer for Siyap ko Kapaganad Program. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--A member of the Bangsamoro Parliament (MP) recognized the 120 teachers and ICT focal persons and coordinators in the three schools divisions of Lanao del Sur for their exemplary commitment and contributions as video content producers of "Siyap Ko Kapaganad" Program. 

The program which literally means "care for education" was conceptualized by the Office of MP Atty. Maisara Dandamun-Latiph to provide accessible video learning materials, modules, and other education-related materials for Kindergarten up to Senior High School.

"This cannot be possible to achieve without the continuing support and strong commitment of your divisions. We have the best interest of children in mind and we believe that in this time of pandemic no one child should be left behind," MP Latiph said during the turnover of the program to Lanao del Sur I, Lanao del Sur II, and Marawi City Schools Divisions on Friday, October 22.

Apart from getting a plaque of recognition from the MP, three best content producers from each of the three schools divisions also received free tablets.

Teacher Jumanah Balangi, one of the video content producers from Lanao del Sur I Schools Division, likened the program to a vehicle that takes its passengers to their destination amidst an unfavorable environment. 

"As teachers, especially those within the umbrella of the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE), we always hope and we always dream that no Bangsamoro learner will be left behind. From the onset of this pandemic, our commitment appears to be impossible, our destination became unreachable. Fortunately, with the timely introduction and implementation of the Siyap Ko Kapaganad Program, we have been able to offer continuity of education to our Bangsamoro learners despite the disruptions in face-to-face classes," she said.

Teacher Jumanah Balangi, one of the video content producers from Lanao del Sur I Schools Division, cites the implementation of the Siyap Ko Kapaganad Program as timely and helped them provide continuity of education to Bangsamoro learners despite the disruptions in face-to-face classes. (Angelo Dologmandin/PIA Lanao del Sur)

She admitted that the program was challenging to implement and sometimes she tapped family members to be part of her production. But her persistence, passion for education, and willingness to sacrifice for the learners made her work lighter, fun, and interesting.

"Though we encountered so much and multi-tasked in this field of profession, still we committed to this platform just to extend to our Bangsamoro learners the MBHTE curriculum which has been contextualized," said Teacher Jhalilah Pandita, a content producer from the Marawi City Schools Division.

Teacher Alibon Mangigin from Lanao del Sur II Schools Division shared that he accepted the task as a video content producer because he wants Bangsamoro children to learn from the videos. “I made my decision to accept the task because I am a teacher and Allah made me a teacher to mold the Bangsamoro learners. I really want my learners to learn more information with my videos," he said.

MP Latiph hopes the teachers will continue to support the program so that Bangsamoro children will get the education they deserve. "The best teachers are what drives the Siyap ko Kapaganad," Latiph said as she encouraged the teachers to continue their joy, passion, and commitment in teaching to contribute to the future of Bangsamoro learners.

The MP also looks forward to the replication of the program to other areas in the Bangsamoro region. 

She said Lanao del Sur is the first in the region to produce a website of video learning materials and possibly the first in the country to use the mother tongue as the language in the produced video content. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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Marawi City Schools Division gets handwashing facility

World Vision Project Manager for Marawi Initiatives Adonis Casinillo, City Schools Division of Marawi Schools Superintendent Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto, and other personnel inaugurate the handwashing facility provided by World Vision Philippines. ( Marawi City Schools Division)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur --The City Schools Division of Marawi (CSDM) received a handwashing facility from the World Vision Philippines as part of the efforts in the fight against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

 

CSDM Schools Superintendent Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto conveyed her gratitude for the unwavering support of World Vision.

 

The facility will not only benefit the personnel and teachers in the division but also the partners and stakeholders. It also has a hand dryer machine with a supply of paper wipes. 

 

The construction and repair of the same facility were also completed at H. Hassan Elementary School, Tuca-Boganga Elementary School, Abdulazis Elementary School, Sikap Elementary School, among others. 

 

This is just one of World Vision's projects in response to COVID-19. The organization also looks forward to its long-term use among children in the prevention of any type of disease.  (LELA/ PIA Lanao del Sur) 

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50 OSY in Marawi to complete skills training

A graduate of the technical-vocational education and training (TVET) on electrical installation and maintenance (EIM) poses with representatives from World Vision Philippines, Task Force Bangon Marawi, and Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education – Technical Education and Skills Development. (TESD-Lanao del Sur) 

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur --A total of 50 out-of-school youths (OSY) here completed the technical-vocational education and training (TVET) on bread and pastry production (BPP) and electrical installation and maintenance (EIM). 

 

The World Vision Philippines partnered with the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education – Technical Education and Skills Development (TESD) for the provision of technical assistance and resources for skills training of identified internally displaced persons and OSY from the vulnerable communities in the City. 

 

Of the 50 graduates, 25 were trained in BPP that lasted for 21 days and the others were trained in EIM for 28 days. All of them passed the assessment and earned National Certificates (NC II) in their respective specialization.

Aside from the training certificates, the graduates also received toolkits as part of the scholarship package. These include baking tools and oven for BPP and electrical tools and materials for EIM. 

 

Moreover, World Vision provided personal protective equipment, transportation and mobilization support, training costs/consumables, insurance for the duration of the training, assessment fee, and basic starter kit after the completion of the course.  

 

In a Facebook post, MBHTE-TESD Lanao del Sur provincial director Aleida Nameerah Mangata shared their commitment to boost the skills of the Maranaos. 

“This community outreach program of MBHTE-TESD Lanao del Sur Provincial Office was driven by our mandate to uplift the lives of the Bangsamoro and the establishment of the foundations of self-governance through moral governance,” she said.

 

The activity is part of the Kapananadem or the commemoration of the 4th anniversary of the liberation of the City. Kapananadem is spearheaded by Task Force Bangon Marawi, the city government, and various humanitarian organizations. (LELA/ PIA Lanao del Sur) 

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AFP chief: Peace will always prevail

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Jose Faustino, Jr. underscored that peace will always prevail. 

In his message during the commemoration of the 4th anniversary of the City’s liberation from the terrorist influence, Faustino said the AFP, national government agencies, and the local government units continue to work together despite the adversaries having been annihilated four years after the five-month long siege in 2017.

“In times of war, no matter how long or difficult the battle may be, peace will always prevail,” said Faustino as read by Philippine Army commanding general Lt. Gen. Andres Centino during the program.

Armed Forces of the Philippines  chief, Gen. Jose Faustino, Jr. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

The AFP chief also said the fight to liberate the Islamic City was a valiant effort for peace and freedom. He said the road to peace requires the rebuilding and rehabilitation of the affected communities.  

According to the general, the pursuit of peace will always be a continuous project that must be achieved and should be sustained every single day. 

He also reminded the public to not forget the lessons that the battles had taught them and honor the sacrifices of the fallen heroes. 

“By remembering the liberation of Marawi City every year, we hope to preserve the peace and sustain the development that we have worked so hard to achieve not just for the people of today but for the future generations of Filipinos,” he said. 

Faustino also urged the citizens to be their constant inspiration as they pursue peace and progress in the entire country. (LELA/ PIA Lanao del Sur) 

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PNP chief: Marawi will certainly bounce back

Philippine National Police chief PGen. Guillermo Eleazar says that Marawi City will certainly bounce back from the challenges it has faced during the five-month siege in 2017.

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur --Philippine National Police chief PGen. Guillermo Eleazar is optimistic that Marawi will bounce back from the challenges it has faced during the five-month siege in 2017.

“Amid various challenges, Marawi will certainly bounce back and from the ruins will rise a new Marawi City,” said Eleazar during the culmination program of the Kapananadem or Commemoration of the Liberation of the City. 

Eleazar said the battle against the violent extremists left a trail of sacrifice and courage for the security forces who fought for the liberty of the besieged City. 

“That fierce battle did not only leave a trail of death and destruction to Marawi City but more significantly it has also left a trail of sacrifice and courage of our brothers who fought for liberty and peace of the entire nation,” he said. 

He said that the sacrifice and courage transcended religious beliefs and went beyond cultural borders. He also reminded the people that despite the differences, they are all Filipinos under one flag and one Republic. 

The PNP chief also said that there is always a silver lining on what is happening in the City.

“Maraming magandang bagay na inaayos at maaayos because of that unfortunate incident. Makikita natin ang mas magandang Marawi City na naging maayos, sa pangunguna ng pamahalaan,” he said. 

[Many good things are being repaired and will be rehabilitated because of that unfortunate incident. We will see a better Marawi City that has gone well, under the leadership of the government.]

Eleazar further said that the sacrifices of the soldiers, police officers and citizens will never be forgotten. He also lauded the efforts of the different line agencies to make a better and progressive community. (LELA /PIA Lanao del Sur) 

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