MSU, Raheemah co-op tie up to roll out Halal course, program

To amplify the promotion of the Halal industry in the country, the Raheemah Peace Weavers Producer Cooperative forged a sturdy partnership with the Mindanao State University (MSU) System to institutionalize a Halal course or program and highlight its significance in the prime mission of fostering a peaceful community.

To bring this to fruition, these entities led a three-day Halal curriculum and roadmap development workshop in Cagayan de Oro City, participated by the executives of all MSU campuses in the country. 

MSU System President Lawyer Basari Mapupuno emphasized that this initiative aligns with their university's mandate to foster lasting peace in their area.

He maintained that one could relish tranquility, particularly in the Southern part of the Philippines, if everyone would pave the way for the Halal ecosystem. 

Mapupuno further emphasized the expectation for academic and intellectual rigor, aiming for a deeper comprehension of the concept, as it holds potential advantages for a broad population, applicable to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

“This is also an industry. It can benefit more people as it can employ. It is beneficial for all. MSU should be a social laboratory where we should understand each other and the culture of our fellow Filipinos. If our Christian brothers and sisters understand that we will have peace of mind if we observe Halal, then we will have peace in this part of the Philippines,” he said. 

Raheemah Peace Weavers Producer Cooperative President Sittie Aishah Baicon Cayongcat-Nuska, on the other hand, shared that they linked with the MSU system, seeing the university's important role in the realization of a thriving Halal ecosystem, considering that it has primary programs gearing towards the attainment of economic boost and the inclusive growth for individuals irrespective of their religions.

“The Mindanao State University has vital programs covering instruction, research, and community extension services. All of these, if put together, will have a theory of change crucial for driving economic growth within our community and the overall development of a person, whether a Muslim or non-Muslim,” she said.

Nuska anticipated the approval of the Halal curriculum by the MSU System's Board of Regents, which would subsequently be cascaded across its various campuses.

She also hoped to craft a roadmap to include promotion, research, and strategies to enable the community to enjoy, benefit from, and access the Halal industry. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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MCB's P350K grant provides solace, rekindles hope for death claimants

Twenty-two death claimants have begun receiving payments for their loved ones who perished in the five-month historic battle in this city in 2017, igniting hope and optimism.

The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) has awarded compensation of P350,000 to each eligible applicant who filed a claim for loss of life during the war. 

Litisia Palahang, a recipient from Iligan City, beamed with overwhelming joy as she clutched her cheque.  

With steadfast determination, she affirmed that regardless of her circumstances, she would forever cherish the memory of her son, who perished in the tragedy, above any sum of money or material wealth.

Although Palahang had accepted the tragic loss of her family member who had worked and thrived in the Islamic city but died during the siege, she opted to grab the chance and use the financial aid as an opportunity to rebuild her life.

“May opportunity kami na masali sa compensation, kaya kinuha na namin. Nagpapasalamat kami sa MCB na tumulong sa amin,” she said.

(We had the opportunity to be part of the indemnification, so we grabbed it. We are thankful to the MCB who helped us).

Jovita Amarga, a resident of Libertad town in Misamis Oriental province, thanked the board for handing her the cheques as compensation for the loss of her loved ones.

She shared that her husband and son worked in this city but unfortunately did not survive the clash years ago.

Although it cost her an amount to process the listed prerequisites, Amarga felt gratified as all her efforts paid off.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa MCB. Naningkamot lang gyud mi nga mahuman namo ang among requirements, para mapasa namo ang mga gipangayo nga requirements,” she said.

(We are thankful to the MCB. We strived to finish working and submit all the requirements).

Ricky Baroy from Iligan City, on the other hand, expressed his gratitude the moment he received the compensation for his brother's death.

He explained that despite being the victim's sibling and having his brother's son as the official beneficiary, he would oversee the funds received as the grantee is a minor. As the youngest claimant, he assumed the role of guardian.

“Makatiwas gyud siya (anak sa biktima) sa pag-eskwela kay kining kwarta, para ilaha man gyud ni. Dili man kabayran ang kinabuhi nga nawala sa kwarta lang pero kabubut-on man sa kahitas-an nga mao na ang nahitabo. Karon, niabot na nga na-awardan mi ug nagpasalamat mi,” said Baroy.

(We can now ensure that the son of the deceased continues his studies as this financial aid is for them. Although money can never compensate for the lost life, we believe it was a divine plan. We express gratitude for this award).

Following the start of the awarding of death claims, the MCB also plans to kick off the distribution of payments to at least 300 approved structural applications in the coming month. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Marawi Compensation Board begins awarding of payment to death claimants

Months after the acceptance of claims application was opened and the adjudication started, the Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) led the ceremonial awarding of death claims to 22 legal heirs of the victims of the warfare in this city in 2017.

Pursuant to the signed implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 11696, or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022, each approved claim was compensated with P350,000.

MCB Chairperson Lawyer Maisara Dandamun-Latiph conveyed that this remarkable event was special and caused great elation not just to the board but to the concerned constituents, as this was known to be the first-ever in the history of the nation.

She noted that the money that was paid out was from the national government through the country's taxpayers.

Latiph stressed that although the amount would not suffice for the cost of the lives lost during the five-month battle, the government was nonetheless hopeful that this would have a positive effect and would help those who greatly clamor for it.

“Kahit papaano, sa claimants ay mabawasan ang lungkot at sakit na naidulot sa atin ng mga araw na iyon at magpahanggang ngayon, anim na taon na ang nakaraan [At least to the claimants, the grief and pain inflicted on us on that day, six years ago, and until now, would be eased],” she said.

MCB Secretary Lawyer Raifah Pamaloy-Hassan attested to this while underscoring that the awarding was also a moment to recognize the resilience of those who have been left behind.

She testified that the claimants diligently followed the board's established due process by first going to the intake site, submitting their applications and pertinent documents, and participating in the meticulous clarificatory hearing.

Hassan underlined that as they continue their journey of compensating eligible individuals, they know that they are still far from their target destination.

However, she emphasized their intent to be a continuing initiative, determined to achieve their promise of processing all claims with the guarantee that more citizens would receive the appropriate amount.

“Nagsikap ng ating mga board member upang tiyakin na mga eligible na makakatanggap ng compensation ay mabibigyan ng nararapat na suporta [Our board members have persevered to ensure that those eligible to receive compensation would be given the appropriate support],” said Hassan.

The board earlier expressed its sincere gratitude to everyone who poured trust in them, as this motivated them to work hard, stand their ground, and listen to the victims.

As of press time, the MCB has logged 10,000 claims and is looking forward to taking more applications until July 3, 2024, targeting 20,000 applicants.

For this year, 59 death claims have already been processed, with 22 recently awarded, 14 already processed and awaiting to be granted, and the remaining 23 to be accommodated next.

Meanwhile, at least 300 structural claims will be awarded in the following month. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Butig launches 'Beyond Beauty" tourism brand

The municipal government of Butig has launched a tourism branding campaign to spotlight its transformation from being a war-torn town to becoming a center of agriculture and eco-tourism of the province.

Dubbed "Butig Beyond Beauty," the rebranding aims to showcase the untapped potential of the town, highlighting its natural beauty, cultural richness, and agricultural resources. 

Mayor Dimnatang Pansar expressed their vision for Butig as an agro-tourism hub in the province and Bangsamoro region. They aim to harness the area's agricultural potential while creating a sustainable and attractive destination for tourists and visitors. 

"We seek to foster economic growth, environmental conservation, and a unique identity for Butig as a pivotal center of BARMM," he added.

Butig municipality launched the campaign on November 19 during the inauguration of its modern two-storey building funded by the Bangsamoro government's Ministry of Interior and Local Government.

With these developments, Pansar expressed his gratitude to the MILG, Bangsamoro government, and the provincial government of Lanao del Sur for standing beside him in transforming the municipality into a peaceful and progressive community.

"May this building stand as a beacon of tranquility and a space for progress—a space where ideas are born, policies crafted, and decisions are made with the collective well-being of our people," he said.

The mayor also called on his constituents to remain resilient and work together to support the vision of fully developing the municipality, hoping that the new government center would serve as a reminder to everyone that in unity, there is strength, and in peace, there is prosperity. (APB/PIA-Lanao del Sur)

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Construction of gov't centers eyed to enhance local governance in BARMM

The construction of modern government centers across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) aims to enhance local governance.

Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, Minister of Interior and Local Government (MILG) underlined this during the turnover and inauguration of the modern two-storey municipal building of Butig, on November 19.

"A part of what we wanted to do is to improve governance at the different levels of the region. The best way we can do that is to create centers of government that are manifest, that are physically there so that government can truly be present in the communities where we rule, where we govern," he said.

Sinarimbo emphasized that it will be difficult for BARMM's constituents to access government services if there is no government center. Likewise, if it is unclear where the center of government is, it will be difficult for public servants to deliver services to the people.

Despite the MILG fully funding the municipal hall project, they entrusted its implementation to the local government unit (LGU).

The Minister emphasized that this showcases the BARMM government's absolute confidence in the LGU's ability to manage financial transactions and oversee the building's construction, highlighting trust as a vital element in governance..

More infrastructure projects for Lanao del Sur

In addition to the government centers established in the province, Sinarimbo said the regional government is simultaneously building several public markets, roads, and other infrastructure projects to propel economic growth.

"We will create the connectivity needed to transport agricultural products into the centers of manufacturing industries," he said.

He conveyed that intentionally choosing Butig, along with Lanao del Sur's second district, for the infusion of infrastructure projects was based on the area's proximity to Polloc Port in Parang.

"Mas malapit tayo, kaya yung strategic infrastructure ay kailangan natin to connect this part of Lanao del Sur to industries that we hopefully would be able to build in the years to come in Parang. Mas mapapabilis natin ang development dito. (We are closer, so we need strategic infrastructure to connect this part of Lanao del Sur to industries that we hopefully would be able to build in the years to come in Parang. We can accelerate development here)," Sinarimbo added. (APB/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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Modern town hall rises in Butig

The Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG) turned over a modern two-storey municipal hall to the local government unit (LGU) of Butig to make government felt in this once conflict-affected municipality.

MILG Minister Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, together with Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong, Jr., Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong, and former BARMM senior minister and incumbent Maguindanao del Norte Governor Abdulraof Macacua, representing BARMM Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, led the inauguration and turnover ceremony of the facility on November 19.

Sinarimbo said the selection of Butig as one of the recipients of the municipal hall building was deliberate to pay homage to the municipality that hosts the second biggest Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camp, Camp Bushra.

“We also wanted to demonstrate that Butig, despite its history and the war that devastated a great part of this municipality, is resilient and can bounce back,“ he said.

Sinarimbo said the focus in Butig indicates the Bangsamoro government’s commitment to remain loyal to its roots while charting a new and prosperous future for our region.

“It is a demonstration of the direction of the MILF towards the transition from conflict to development and governance,” he added.

According to him, BARMM is currently building a total of seven municipal halls in the province to ensure that the needs of the communities are addressed promptly and services are provided to residents efficiently.

Butig Mayor Dimnatang Pansar conveyed his gratitude to the BARMM government and all those who made the project a reality.

He said the town hall will help his municipality take center stage as a leading example of stable peace and genuine development.

“We hope that this new municipal hall serves as a reminder that in unity we find strength, and in peace we discover prosperity,” he further said.

Governor Adiong was also thankful to the Bangsamoro government for including Butig as a recipient of the project.

He also implored the regional government to expand the coverage of the town hall project to include other municipalities in Lanao del Sur.

Citing Butig's potential as an agricultural hub, he likewise requested projects and facilities that will develop not just the agricultural sector of the municipality but also the whole province. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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LDS security forces underscore MNLF's crucial role in attaining peace, progress

The security sector in the province of Lanao del Sur has firmly maintained that the fighters of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) could contribute significantly to their prime goal of achieving lasting peace and development in their place.

103rd Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Col. Billy Dela Rosa attested that the front members could be an advantage, especially in a vast locality that gears for a stable security landscape for each constituent.

“Alam ko malaki ang maitutulong ninyo para sa progreso ng (I know you will greatly help in the progress of) Lanao del Sur. At the end of the day, ang (the) aim ay (is) partnership. We need to partner with each other. With the MNLF around us, I am sure that they will have an impact on the security aspect of Lanao del Sur,” he said.

Dela Rosa has conveyed his sincere gratitude to the combatants and their families for extending their much-needed support to the government, which has been implementing endeavors targeting to give a normal transition to the MNLF community. 

Among these was the transformation program, which was rolled out in the province by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and its partners through a two-week verification of firearms and socio-economic profiling. 

Dela Rosa shared that he has been delighted that the MNLF has been receiving support and recognition through this initiative. 

With this, he looked forward to the sustainability of the relevant and timely program and further hoped that this would be the beginning of more collaborations with stakeholders and MNLF fighters. 

Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO) Provincial Director PCol. Robert Daculan lauded the collective efforts of the OPAPRU and its partners to successfully conduct the verification and socio-economic profiling of MNLF combatants here as this manifested unity and dedication to cinching tranquility. 

He also stated that in this province, people showed their commitment to strengthening their mission of fostering a safe and secure environment for all.  Daculan believed that this initiative laid the foundation for trust and understanding within the MNLF, aiming to pave the way for a peaceful Bangsamoro region in the future.

He urged everyone to remain determined to push for an environment that promotes peace and justice. 

“Nawa'y maging patunay ang sandaling ito sa lakas na pagsama-sama at sa potential na positibong pagbabago kapag nagtutulungan ang iba't-ibang stakeholders at ng gobyerno para sa iisang layunin,” said Daculan.

(I hope this moment proves the strength of our unity for a positive change with the support of different stakeholders and the government for one aim). (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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OPAPRU brings transformation program to MNLF in Lanao Sur

Fulfilling the vision laid for the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members, their families, and communities under the 1996 Final Peace Agreement, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) rolled out the transformation program in Lanao del Sur, where some MILF fighters reside currently.

Kicking off the initiative, an initial batch of 444 combatants underwent verification of firearms and socio-economic profiling, which ran for two weeks from November 6 to 15, this year. This is a collaborative effort of various stakeholders such as the 103rd Infantry Brigade, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-10, Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-Marawi City, Bangsamoro government, and the local governments of Marawi City and Lanao del Sur.

During this process, the beneficiaries also enjoyed different forms of assistance, including livelihood cash aid amounting to P45,000 each, registration and enrollment in the national identification system, and the distribution of sacks of rice.

OPAPRU MNLF Peace Process Office Director Jana Jill Gallardo explained that they took this initiative to transform the targeted population from an armed group into socio-economically resilient individuals.

“Ito ay naglalayon na tulungan ang ating mga MNLF combatants na mabigyan sila, ang kanilang mga pamilya at komunidad ng maayos na pamumuhay, at umunlad bilang peace and development communities [This aims to help our MNLF combatants, their families, and communities be given a proper living and improve as peace and development communities],” she said.

Gallardo recalled that the transformation program was established in 2019, and its guidelines, particularly focusing on security and socio-economic aspects, were signed in 2021.

From then on, she detailed that relevant components came in, like the documentation of firearms, community healing, reconciliation, and confidence-building, which would address the concerns about the legal identity of the MNLF members and their transition into being an empowered group.

Gallardo emphasized that ever since they have ensured that they will pursue informed decisions, every move should be tailored to the necessities of the beneficiaries.

She stated that the data they collected and collated from their socio-economic profiling would be utilized in crafting plans to realize the aspirations of the beneficiaries.

Gallardo was delighted with the warm reception and cooperation they received after introducing the transformation program to the province.

“Ang activities na ginagawa natin every day, kung wala ang mga leader sa MNLF and ang kanilang mga combatant, ay hindi ito magiging successful [The activities we do every day, if it had not been for the leaders of the MNLF and their combatants, would not be successful],” she said.

The OPAPRU announced that another batch of MNLF members in Lanao del Sur province will be catered to cover all qualified beneficiaries in the transformation program. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur PDRRMO holds earthquake drill at MSU campus

The Lanao del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) spearheaded the conduct of the fourth quarter national simultaneous earthquake drill (NSED) in Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus here, November 9.

In partnership with the Marawi City DRRMO, MSU, Bureau of Fire Protection, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, Philippine Army, and other local DRRMOs,  the disaster preparedness drill was participated by the faculty and students of MSU College of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation, and the National Service Training Program (NSTP). 

PDRRMO Head Shaminoden Sambitory said they held the fourth quarter NSED at the university to provide earthquake preparedness training to the faculty and students, especially since the university has thousands of students.

"These drills are important as we prepare the staff and students with the necessary knowledge on how to react immediately and appropriately when an earthquake strikes. These significantly reduce accidents and loss of lives. We have key important things in this kind of drill," he said. 

In addition to providing information to teachers and students, Sambitory said they also want to provide technical assistance to the newly established MSU DRRMO on how to conduct earthquake drills.

MSU Marawi Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Amerkhan Cabaro thanked the PDRRMO and other stakeholders for conducting the drill at MSU, and for their unwavering dedication to the community's welfare.

He also reminded the students to take to heart and understand the importance of the drill, especially since natural hazards such as earthquakes are unpredictable. 

"Napakaimportante na maunawaan natin. We must understand the risk associated with this activity. We should learn how to respond effectively. The most important thing is the response. By actively participating in this exercise, you are taking a significant step towards ensuring your safety and of those around you--your family," he said. 

During the earthquake drill, participants learned the key things to remember in times of disaster, such as making an alarm to inform students of the danger; covering their heads and holding position until the earthquake subsides; assembling in an open space away from buildings and other structures that may fall; and conducting a roll call to check if anyone is missing or injured so they can be rescued soonest. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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