PBBM vows to complete Marawi restoration projects

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has guaranteed that his administration will ensure that the rehabilitation program enforced in this city is achieved at the soonest possible time.

He maintained that up to this day, notwithstanding the number of accomplished projects, much remains to be completed. Thus, his prayer is that every concerned entity will keep on dedicating themselves to the noble tasks that still lie ahead of them.

“Rest assured, my dear Filipinos, that this administration will strive to achieve the goals that we have set for you and your city. The government will expedite the progression of all the Marawi rehabilitation projects and process all the claims with utmost urgency and responsiveness,” President Marcos penned in his message delivered by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. during the commemoration of the 6th anniversary of the city’s liberation.

In the same event, various finished infrastructures were turned over by the implementing agencies to the city government, signifying that the latter had assumed the administration.

President Marcos also conveyed his gratitude to the passionate groups and individuals who have tirelessly worked for the needy residents.

From there, he was confident that the revival of the place was already on its way.

Apart from assuring that the government would stand side-by-side with the Islamic city, the country’s chief executive has likewise expressed how he continuously mourns the loss of hundreds of lives amidst the tragic clash in 2017.

He further looked back on the heroism displayed by the government forces, civilian leaders, and locals who navigated the dangers and risks of the warfare and stood against the terrorist foes.

President Marcos, inspired by this bravery, declared his commitment to continue raising the banner of peace, inclusivity, and prosperity to benefit future generations.

“In honor of the remembrance of all we have lost, we proclaimed the end of violence in our land and the beginning of a more peaceful and progressive future for our people. Let us pray for our triumph against extremism in Marawi. The trial of unity that will keep working hard for our country and a triumph of lasting peace here in our lands, and our conflict-affected areas, and our people across the globe,” he said. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur logs violence amid 2023 barangay, SK polls

For this year’s Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), the province of Lanao del Sur has reported an occurrence of violence even before the polls officially commenced. 

In a live interview with the state-run PTV, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO) Public Information Officer PMaj. Alinaid Moner disclosed that there were two shooting incidents, three mulling cases, and one alarming scandal situation on election day, October 30.

One of the recorded incidents involved the shooting in Brgy. Bayabao, Butig town, where Madid Bao, the husband of the incumbent chairperson of Brgy. Poctan of the same town was tragically shot and killed by his own brother at 6:25 in the morning at the covered court of Bayabao Central Elementary School. 

Police reports said the case is under investigation. The polls continued despite the incident. 

“The suspect ay kapatid ng victim na si Jamail Bao. Siya rin ay tumatakbong kandidato bilang barangay chairperson sa Brgy. Poctan, Butig, Lanao del Sur. Nang mangyari iyon, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang botohan,” said Moner.

(The suspect, Jamail Bao, was the brother of the victim. He also ran as a candidate for the barangay chairperson of Brgy. Poctan, Butig, Lanao del Sur. Even when that happened, the elections still went on).

It can be recalled that the concerned town was earlier classified under the red category. 

Ensuring the security of the canvassers, Moner stated that other municipalities in the province conducted the counting at their respective municipal halls, such as the town of Marantao. 

Notwithstanding the tallied election-related violence in some parts of the country, including in this province, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) declared that this year’s BSKE was generally peaceful. 

COMELEC Commissioner Rey Bulay stressed that although they firmly denounced all untoward events, these were insufficient to halt the slated elections. 

“We abhor and condemn (the election-related incidents), but those hiwa-hiwalay na incidents ay (separate incidents were) not enough to stop holding the elections,” he said.

COMELEC Chairperson Lawyer George Erwin Garcia, on the other hand, underscored that the cases of disturbance did not outweigh the fact that the elections continued. 

“Maliit na porsyento pa rin iyong nagkaroon ng disruption as against doon sa natuloy ang ating halalan,” he said. 

The disruptions were just a minor scale in percentage compared to areas where elections were held without a glitch). (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur boosts coops’ sales anew with trade fair, bazaar

The provincial government of Lanao del Sur has given another boost in the sales of its registered cooperatives as it organized once again a trade fair and food bazaar featuring various delicacies and intricate products such as handicrafts, ready-to-eat food, and spices. 

Through this week-long activity led by the Provincial Cooperative Office in partnership with the Provincial Technology and Livelihood Development Center, at least 12 groups of locals from various municipalities in the province benefited.

Provincial Cooperative Officer Ashadie Alonto shared that they have been implementing this initiative annually to assist cooperatives in increasing their profits and gaining more exposure for their products.

“Ito ang isang way na makatulong ang provincial government para maishowcase at makabenta ang coops,” he said. 

(This is one way the provincial government is helping, for the coops to showcase and sell.)

To ease the sellers’ stay at the Provincial Gymnasium for one week, Alonto bared that the local government offered free rent and provided meals to all participants. 

With this, he hoped that more cooperatives in the province would be inspired, as they have been encouraging all groups to develop their products. 

Alonto attested that there have been numerous products in the province. However, they have been struggling with product development and packaging. 

“Hopefully, by next year, may convergence kami with other stakeholders at cooperatives. May plano kasi kaming magpili ng coops para makatulong sa pag-improve ng products nila, (we will have convergence with other stakeholders and convergence. We have plans of choosing coops so that we can improve their products),” he said. 

Apart from the trade fair and food bazaar, the Provincial Cooperative Office detailed that they also spearheaded the Halal awareness campaign alongside the Raheemah Weavers Producer Cooperative, cooking demonstration, and seminar on cooperative registration, bookkeeping, and good governance. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Constituents flock at the stadium to witness 1st pyromusical in Marawi

Marawi City constituents flocked to the Sarimanok Sports Stadium to witness the very first pyromusical event in the city to culminate the Marawi liberation 6th anniversary commemoration. 

The pyromusical event was organized by the City Schools Division of Marawi (CSDM) together with the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and the City Government with the sponsorship of the Japanese Philanthropist Kenji Mori, who donated P10 million for the said event.  

"Itong event natin ay isinagawa upang tayo ay maging mapagsalamat dahil ang mga pinagdaanan natin na trahedya noong siege ay talagang naghirap tayo (This event of ours was held so that we could be grateful because the tragedies we went through during the siege really made us suffer)," said city mayor Majul Gandamra. 

Gandamra shared his joy at the sight of the number of people who attended, despite the bad weather, just to witness the pyromusical display.

He also thanked the Japanese Philanthropist Kenji Mori for sponsoring the event, especially since it was the very first pyromusical in the city. Along with his gratitude, he also clarified that no government funds were used for the activity, as Mori sponsored all the expenses.

City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto, on the other hand, underscored that the pyromusical was conducted not only for a fireworks display but also to showcase the talent and skills of Maranao learners in town. 

She also shared that the event was one way to show the resilience of the people despite the challenges they had faced over the past six years.

Meanwhile, spectators of the pyromusical display expressed their fascination after witnessing the first grand pyromusical display in the city.

"Napakasaya po. Isa po ito sa hindi ko makakalimutan na moment dito sa Marawi City. This is the first kaya grabe napakasaya talaga (It's so fun. This is one of the moments I will never forget here in Marawi City. This is the first so it's really fun)," said Farhan Dimakuta.

For Zac Michadal, he said the pyromusical display was so amazing. Kahit umuulan tuloy pa rin ang mga performers. Gusto ko lang po ishare na ngayon nagpapakasaya ako kasi bukas po exam ko na (Even though it was raining, the performers were still performing. I just want to share that now I'm having fun because my exam is tomorrow)," he further said. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur) 

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Pyromusical show lights up night sky in Marawi

A spectacular and vibrant display of fireworks syncing with serenading music has left hundreds of locals here bedazzled.

The first-ever grand pyromusical show held at the Sarimanok Sports Stadium in the most affected area (MAA) illuminated the dark sky of this city for roughly 22 minutes despite the inevitable downpour on Monday, October 23.

The City Schools Division of Marawi (CSDM) led the event in partnership with the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and the city government, with the sponsorship of Japanese philanthropist Kenji Mori, who donated P10 million to bring the program to fruition.

CSDM Superintendent Dr. Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto shared that such an activity has already been conducted in six other localities in the country.

She stated that this was then spearheaded here to bring a tantamount of delight to young learners.

“Ang importante dito ay ang kasiyahan na maidudulot sa mga bata. Iyon ang ultimate goal ni [What is important here is the happiness that it will cause the children. That is the ultimate goal of] Sir Kenji Mori—to see our children happy and love to go to school. All he wants to do is alleviate the teaching and learning processes of our young Maranao learners,” said Alonto.

Moreover, amidst the posted backlash against the organizers for pushing through with this event, the superintendent elucidated that they had already assessed this situation.

She stressed that while they carried on with the fireworks display, this did not connote that their hearts were not with the Palestinians and Muslim brothers and sisters who were agonizing due to warfare.

Alonto expounded that preparations for this had been in place months ago, as they deemed this their means to remember the liberation of their own place from the dreaded battle in 2017.

Additionally, she emphasized that they just wanted to show the world , particularly the Philippines, that the city now could warmly welcome tourists, taking into account that it has opened itself to the world, strengthened friendships, and strengthened relationships with donors to maintain a peaceful image.

“Hindi ibig sabihin na magkakaroon tayo ng kaunting programa ay hindi na natin nararamdaman ang sakit na nararamdaman ng ating Palestinian brothers and sisters [It does not mean that when we have a small program, we do not feel the pain of our Palestinian brothers and sisters]. This is also one way of showing the resilience of the Maranao people—that we withstood and stood against the terrorism that plagued our place in 2017,” said Alonto.

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Marawi fosters relationship with Japanese philanthropist partner

The city here has found a new ally who shares the same goal of advancing the welfare of Maranaos here, especially the young learners. 

The local government unit (LGU) and the City Schools Division of Marawi (CSDM) have both acclaimed their partnership with Japanese Philanthropist Kenji Mori as he extended various efforts for pupils from different schools here.  

CSDM Superintendent Dr. Anna Zenaida Unte-Alonto especially underscored their sturdy linkage with Mori, who has already donated numerous equipment for sports and teaching, including a television, laptops, a sound system, and a 2.5-kilowatt air conditioning unit. 

Mori also received recognition for his leadership in competitions such as singing and cultural presentations, which were followed by the recent grand pyromusical display at the Sarimanok Sports Stadium in the most affected area (MAA) on Monday, October 23. 

Alonto underlined that they have been elated by the determination of their foreign partner to bring exalt to their young learners. 

“Iyon ang (That is the) ultimate goal of Sir Kenji Mori, to see our children happy and love to go to school and play sports,” she said. 

Highlighting this, Alonto bared that they intended to name the ground floor of their integrated school Kenji Mori Hall in honor of the initiative of the Japanese philanthropist to donate a room filled with sports materials. 

Mayor Majul Gandamra, on the other hand, was likewise gratified by the efforts of Mori. 

He was particularly overwhelmed as the compassionate Japanese sponsored P10 million to organize the grand pyromusical display in his locality. 

“Walang nasayang na pera ng gobyerno (sa pyromusical display). Aside from this, maraming binigay ang philanthropist para sa mga estudyante dito sa Marawi City,” said Gandamra. 

(No money from the government was wasted (on the pyromusical display). Aside from this, the Philanthropist has also given a lot to the students here in Marawi City.) (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Marawi honors fallen heroes on 6th liberation anniversary

To mark the 6th anniversary of the Marawi Liberation on October 17, the city commemorated the heroes who sacrificed their lives to liberate it from the DI-Maute terrorist group in 2017.

A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted at the 103rd Infantry Brigade, Kampo Ranao, led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. with City Mayor Majul Gandamra, Lanao del Sur Vice-Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong, Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Ziaur-Rahman Alonto and other dignitaries to pay tribute to the 168 fallen heroes from the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines who gave up their lives to achieve the liberation of the city from terrorists.

"We must also acknowledge the sacrifices made by those who pay the ultimate price for the defense of our city. The heroes, our uniformed men and women, who laid down their lives to Marawi shall forever be remembered and cherished in our hearts," said Congressman Adiong.

He also paid tribute to the citizens of Marawi City for their steadfastness and courage during the height of the war.

Mayor Gandamra, on the other hand, expressed his gratitude to the heroes who selflessly dedicated their lives to the city's liberation and to the people for their dedication to the recovery of Marawi. He stated that their efforts and support contributed to the rebirth of not only the city but also its residents.

Gandamra also shared that the city's journey to recovery was not easy, but the resilience and strength of the people paved the way for the city to recover and rebuild. 

He stated that as the sacrifices of the people, the pain, and destruction experienced by the city and its residents were commemorated, Marawi City also looked ahead to hope and determination. 

Meanwhile, Gen. Brawner Jr. expressed joy to see the gradual recovery of Marawi, especially as he considered the city his second home.

"We went around the most affected areas, and it brought lots of memories. Not memories of death. Not memories of destruction. But memories of courage, compassion, and resilience. If you go to Marawi now, you will see no destruction. But you will see progress," he said.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to serve the city and its citizens and ensure lasting peace and progress in Marawi City. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Marawi relives victory, liberation vs extremism on 6th anniversary

Memorializing the triumph that forever marked the history of the country, the Islamic City of Marawi commemorated the sixth anniversary of its liberation from the five-month occupation of the Dawlah-inspired Maute group. 

Looking back, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte declared the locality’s freedom on October 17, 2017, and realized his intent to lead a full-blast operation to restore the lost glory.

This year, the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and the city government here, alongside other line agencies, led a special program that kicked off with a wreath-laying at the Heroes’ Wall in Kampo Ranao to honor the fallen heroes of urban warfare.

In his speech, Mayor Majul Gandamra stressed that their trip toward total healing from all the derogative impacts of the firefight has never been light and smooth.

Nonetheless, he conveyed that the strength and tenacity of the locals emerged, thus, their hope and determination persisted to once again rebuild their city where physical infrastructures would be erected, and their spirit and soul fostered despite remembering the pain and destruction of the past.

“The stories of heroism and resilience that unfolded during the darkest days of our history have brought us together as a community. We have witnessed the resilience of our people, the spirit of Bayanihan, and the unwavering faith that has sustained us in adversity. We reaffirm our commitment to rise above the challenges that fly ahead and work hand-in-hand towards a better and brighter future for Marawi City,” said Gandamra.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also witnessed this. In his relayed message, he recounted the unfortunate tragedy in this city six years ago, leaving challenges for the people and brave government forces.

He underscored that notwithstanding the sufferings which needed to be endured, the victors of the clash could proudly celebrate this year’s anniversary for it marked treasurable memories which signified that peace would always prevail.

Following this, President Marcos expressed his firm dedication to back all the endeavors toward the complete restoration of the most affected area (MAA).

He likewise promised to address the cause of all underlying issues so that they could successfully bring about social healing and lay down a better path for every Maranao.

“Rest assured, my dear Filipinos, that this administration will strive to achieve the goals that we have set for you and your city. The government will expedite the progression of all the Marawi rehabilitation projects and process all the claims with utmost urgency and responsiveness,” said President Marcos. 

The implementing agencies turned over some completed projects at Ground Zero to the city government to highlight the program. These included the Marawi Convention Center, Sarimanok Sports Stadium, Peace and Rizal Parks, restored historical landmarks, School of Living Traditions, MAA barangay complexes with health centers and madrasahs, barangay halls in the least affected area, Torogan Royal House, solid waste management building with motor pool, powerhouse with standby generator set, central material recovery facility, and Marawi Agri-Food Terminal. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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LDS gov’t culminates free legal aid program for Marawi IDPs

After months of supporting the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs) of this city, the provincial government of Lanao del Sur wrapped up its program aiming to provide free legal assistance to residents applying for compensation for their affected properties and families lost during the warfare here in 2017. 

It can be remembered that following the official start of the acceptance of claims applications by the Marawi Compensation Board (MCB), the local government, through its Provincial Legal Office, opened its legal hub on July 10 this year to extend aid to claimants through notarial services and drafting of simple non-commercial documents to hasten the processing of their applications.

Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)-Lanao del Sur Chapter Former President Lawyer Dagoroan Macarambon II conveyed that his group’s participation in this endeavor has been remarkable as this became their avenue to help the needy members of their community.

“This momentous event is very special to IBP because this is an opportunity provided by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur for us to serve our community to provide assistance needed by our community affected by the Marawi siege,” he said. 

This was attested by Aminoden Macaradi of the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC)-Lanao del Sur, who also shared how overwhelming it was when assisting his fellow Maranaos, although it was at times tedious.

“You feel fulfilled and ma-feel mong nakagawa ka ng mabuti (feel that you have done right) because of the services we provided them,” he said.

While lawyer volunteers garner recognition for their feat, Provincial Board Secretary Lawyer Aminoden Macalandap heartened his fellow legal officers to continue persevering and living out justice. 

“Let us remember that the work we do is not just a legal obligation but a moral duty to serve our fellow human beings, especially our Maranao brethren. Together, let us continue striving towards a society where access to justice is not a privilege but a fundamental right to every Maranao,” he said. 

As this program came out victorious with all of its objectives achieved, the provincial government expressed its willingness to reimplement this for the welfare of the populace clamoring for it.

“Mas mainam rin na itong legal assistance hub ay maulit rin kasi marami ring agencies sa national na nakipag-usap at tinatanong if mayroon ba daw tayong assistance na isinasagawa para sa claimants. Sabi nila gusto nilang magkaroon ng part two. Alam ko rin na marami rin tayong claimants and maganda rin na magkaroon ito ng part two,” said Lanao del Sur Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong.

(It is better if this legal assistance hub is repeated because a lot of national agencies discussed and asked if we have conducted this assistance for the claimants. They said they wanted to have part two. I know as well that we still have a lot of claimants, and it will be wonderful if this will have part two). (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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PLGU Lanao Sur grateful to volunteers, partners in Legal Assistance Hub project

Lanao del Sur Provincial Vice-Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong expressed his gratitude to partners and volunteer lawyers who joined the legal assistance hub stressing that the project would not be successful without their participation and efforts. 

The Provincial Government through its Legal Services Office established a legal assistance hub project on July 4, this year, to provide legal assistance to internally displaced persons (IDP) who will file compensation claims to the Marawi Compensation Board. The services offered were free legal consultations and notarial services. 

"Alam ko na ang mga lawyers natin dito sa legal assistance hub, they are working voluntarily. Let us consider this as our charity at parte ng ating pananampalataya (I know that our lawyers here at the legal assistance hub are working voluntarily. Let us consider this as our charity and part of our faith)," he said during the project's culmination program, October 18.

He also shared the possibility of another legal assistance hub as some national government agencies have talked to him and expressed their desire to help the displaced persons about filing their claims. 

"Sa tuwing may napaprocess kaming mga papers ng IDPs nakikita namin sa kanila ang sobrang saya at galak (every time we process the papers of IDPs, we see their happiness and joy)," said lawyer Samsodin Bedar of the National Prosecution Service-LDS Provincial Prosecutor. 

Other partners were the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-LDS, Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission-LDS, MSU-Sambatan Legal Clinic and Public Attorneys Office-BARMM.

These agencies also conveyed their continuous support to the Provincial Government in pursuit of good governance and delivery of legal services. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur) 

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MCB chief promises proper utilization of compensation funds

The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) vowed that it would appropriately utilize the funds apportioned by the national government for the compensation and reparation of the qualified victims of the warfare in this city in 2017.

MCB Chairperson Lawyer Maisara Dandamun-Latiph stressed that since the inception of her group, each member has been resolute in their determination to contribute to the fast healing and the just, safe and dignified return of displaced residents to the most affected area (MAA).

She stated that they are carrying out this mandate by ensuring that legitimate claimants would be paid promptly without compelling them to undergo a complex process.

“Kami ay nangangako na open ang ating opisina, at ang proseso natin ay hindi papahirapan ang mga IDP. May karapatan tayong lahat sa reparation at compensation. Iyan ay ginagarantiya ng estado sa lalong madaling panahon at sa napakadaling paraan,” said Latiph.

(We promise that our office will be open and our process will not make our IDPs struggle. We all have the right to reparation and compensation. That is what has been guaranteed by the state at the soonest possible time and in the easiest way.)

The board chief detailed that within three months since they started accepting applications in July this year, they have already received claims with an estimated worth of P17.5 billion.

Seeing that this amount has fallen off the initially apportioned P1 billion by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Latiph stated that they sought the help of Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong as they lobbied their request for additional budget. 

In the coming days, the MCB announced that it would likely release some claims for death and structures. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Health allies back rise of APMC’s 7-storey multi-specialty center

Various members and stakeholders comprising the health sector of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the nation, in general, have poured their utmost support for the construction of a seven-storey multi-specialty building of the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC).

APMC may open various facilities, such as the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound complex, ambulatory surgical and orthopedic units, lung and rehabilitation centers, service wards, and expanded out-of-patient, infectious, and dermatology departments, through the P500 million worth of allocation from the Department of Health (DOH) through its Multi-Year Obligation Authority (MYOA) for 2023 to 2025.

Taking into account the earmarked amount, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa underscored that this would be a testament to this ceaseless devotion to elevating the healthcare services provided to their patients in Mindanao, considering that the new building would house advanced medical equipment that would enable the medical professionals to deliver cutting-edge treatments and interventions.

“This is not merely a financial commitment. It is an investment in the health and well-being of our community. We recognize the evolving needs of our patients and the community we serve. Through our dedication, service, and inclusivity, we can build a health system for every Filipino towards the realization of a healthy Pilipinas [Philippines],” said Herbosa.

DOH Undersecretary for Field Implementation and Coordination Team for Visayas and Mindanao, Dr. Abdullah Dumama Jr., was also elated over the improvement manifested by the APMC. He stated that with augmented facilities in tandem with dedicated medical personnel, the hospital is on the path to becoming fast-rising.

Dr. David Mendoza, assistant regional director of DOH-10, echoed this sentiment and expressed his appreciation for how APMC successfully shoved off barriers as it catered to patients regardless of religion and culture.

He affirmed that this hospital maintained its mission that health should be for everyone and front-liners should have a dedication to the people.

“The greatness of APMC is served, not only here but beyond Region 10. The construction of this multi-specialty center symbolizes the realization of ligtas, dekalidad at mapagkalingang serbisyo para sa lahat [safe, quality, and caring service for all],” said Mendoza.

Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)-BARMM Regional Vice President Datu Masinding Alonto Jr., on the other hand, promised to amplify their linkage with the APMC, especially since they see its other infrastructure project as a milestone and a testimony to the dedication and leadership skills of the hospital’s management and workers despite the limited resources.

“PhilHealth’s concern is not only health outcomes but, more importantly, quality health outcomes. We shall remain consistent and reliable as always. For APMC, makakasiguro kayo ng tuloy-tuloy na pakikipag-ugnayan at tulong mula sa Philhealth. Hindi ito magbabago at mas lalo pa natin itong palalakasin [You can guarantee a continuous partnership and help from PhilHealth. This will not change, and we will strengthen this more] despite the challenges that we have encountered in the past,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong vowed sturdy support for the APMC and its future endeavors.

Following the construction of the multi-specialty building, he shared that they had already discussed with the hospital management their plans to secure numerous developments.

“Kami naman sa provincial government, nandito lang kami para sumuporta. Kahit ano ang inyong naiisip na programa, 100% ang aming suporta [We, in the provincial government, are here to support. Whatever program you have, we will give 100% support]," said Adiong.

Captain James Ames initially built Amai Pakpak Medical Center as a 25-bed hospital in 1903. The hospital was then called Lanao General Hospital, but people in the area just called it "Public Hospital." The name was changed to Amai Pakpak General Hospital in the 1970s to honor Datu Amai Pakpak, whose real name was Akadir Akobar. He was a Maranao hero who fought against the Spanish in the famous battle of Marawi in 1895. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Appreciation pours into APMC for providing quality healthcare services

During the groundbreaking ceremony of Amai Pakpak Medical Center's (APMC) seven-storey multi-specialty building on October 6, appreciation poured into the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC) for their dedication and continuous efforts in delivering and providing quality healthcare services to the people of Lanao del Sur and its neighboring provinces.

Health Undersecretary Dr. Abdullah Dumama Jr. expressed his fascination with the hospital for their continuous work to improve its services, from establishing a Heart Institute to building a multi-specialty center. 

"You must have noticed also that hospitals in Mindanao are really doing their upgrading vigorously, and you cannot deny that APMC is catching up and is fast rising. Sino ang hindi mamamangha sa nagagawa ng APMC ngayon (who wouldn't be amazed at what APMC is doing now)," he said.

On the other hand, Lanao del Sur Vice-Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong thanked the APMC for delivering services to the people of Lanao del Sur and neighboring provinces. 

Adiong said he is happy with the new seven-storey multi-specialty building as it would provide more services and cater to more patients.

Meanwhile, APMC Medical Center Chief Dr. Shalimar Sani Rakiin, expressed her joy as their long-held dream of building a specialty center to deliver high-quality healthcare services to patients, not only in Lanao del Sur but also in neighboring regions, is now coming to fruition.

“This project is pursuant to our unwavering commitment to the well-being and welfare of our patients. We understand the importance of investing in the future of healthcare, and this multi-specialty center signifies our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our community. Through collaborative efforts and partnership, we aim to create a healthcare ecosystem that fosters innovation, research and excellence,” said Dr. Rakiin. 

The seven-storey multi-specialty building will have an MRI and ultrasound complex, ambulatory surgical unit, rehabilitation center, orthopedic center, lung center, infectious and dermatology department and services wards. 

The P500 million budget for the multi-specialty building is utilized by the DOH Multi-Year Obligation Authority for 2023 to 2025. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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APMC to advance health system with 7-storey multi-specialty bldg

The Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC), this city is set to welcome another boost to its healthcare system as a seven-storey multi-specialty building will soon rise within its compound. 

Such an event has begun to be realized following the ceremonial breaking of ground and laying time capsules.

APMC Medical Center Chief Dr. Shalimar Sani Rakiin stressed that this initiative has signaled the dawning of a bright future for their hospital as this would fulfill their ultimate dream, which is to yield better healthcare services to all needy constituents of Lanao del Sur province and neighboring localities. 

She explained that over two years after the onslaught of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), their management faced the demanding liability of upgrading their place to create a conducive environment for medical professionals, allowing patients to receive highly specialized clinical care without financial struggles.

Rakiin also noted that part of the crucial mission of this infrastructure would be to keep pace with the advent of innovations that likewise bring medical advancements at an unprecedented phase. 

“We understand the importance of investing in the future of healthcare, and this multi-specialty center signifies our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our community. Through collaborative efforts and partnership, we aim to create a healthcare ecosystem that fosters innovation, research and excellence,” she said.

The APMC management noted that a P500-million budget was apportioned by the Department of Health (DOH) through its Multi-Year Obligation Authority (MYOA) for 2023 to 2025 to allow them to unveil additional facilities. It would include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound complex, ambulatory surgical and orthopedic units, lung and rehabilitation centers, services wards, and expanded out-of-patient, infectious and dermatology departments. 

Accordingly, the endeavor would be fully aligned with the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan (PHFP), and DOH Department Order No. 2021-0001, which designated the APMC to deliver comprehensive multi-specialty services such as cardiovascular, lung, orthopedic, physical rehabilitation medicine, mental health, neonatal, infectious disease and tropical medicine, eye, dermatology, renal or kidney, cancer, and trauma centers.

Moreover, this would be guided by the framework provided by the Republic Act No. 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Act signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in August this year to establish and institutionalize special healthcare centers in communities. She said with this issuance,

Foreseeing a triumphant rise of their new infrastructure, APMC Chief Medical Professional Staff Dr. Moamar Casim expressed his positivity that with the unity of health advocates, their determination to be an end-referral hospital offering specialized services would surely bear good fruit.

“This is another breakthrough and achievement of the Amai Pakpak Medical Center towards our plan of achieving our vision to be an ideal apex multi-special center in Northern Mindanao. This is a testament to the greater heights we achieve when we support, commit and work together,” he said.

As targeted, the foundation of the promising infrastructure should be completed in 2025. The Legacy Construction Corporation, the contractor hired for this project, assured to finish this on time while following the DOH-approved construction plans and engineering standards to ensure a quality and durable building. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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