Harnessing the power of two-way radio in communication

The realm of communication is filled with complexity but no matter how people would perceive it, it remains imbued in the day-to-day survival of mankind and keeps the social structure alive. 

However, with each second ticking, this field is confined with struggles, especially with the uncertainty of circumstances, and sprouting fake news. Here lies the challenge to beat these obstacles, and instead, magnify the great power it holds.

Like other localities in the country, the province of Lanao del Sur is not new to instances of disinformation, especially that this has been repetitively witnessed and viewed as bothersome. Thus, officials are persevering to finally overcome this concern with the emergence of dependable peddlers of true and accurate information. 

Determined to shape reliable journalists and communicators in this province, the provincial government of Lanao del Sur has partnered with the Bangsamoro Watch Initiative, Inc. (BMWI) to lead a seminar and orientation on peace journalism, and strategic planning for Ranaw media and radio frequencies which delved into responsible journalism, and media following ethics and cultural sensitivity.

Here, BMWI President Abulkhair Alibasa stressed that fake news has often been fabricated to mislead, malign the public's confidence in the government, and cause widespread confusion on crucial matters. 

While fake news has not been a new phenomenon, he underscored that this has posed a threat and risk as it intensifies conflict, and distrust people so that issues remain misconstrued. 

With this, Alibasa emphasized that it would only be vital for the local media from different platforms, especially the two-way radio frequencies, to know and understand the principles of responsible reporting. 

“This (seminar) will equip us with the necessary skills on how to effectively deliver information through two-way radio, incorporating the guidelines of clarity, brevity and structure,” he said. 

Various two-way radio groups in the province of Lanao del Sur attend the seminar and orientation on peace journalism, and strategic planning for Ranaw media and radio frequencies wherein they are taught with ethical reporting. (RCG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Keeping up with the trend of responsible journalism

Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-10 Deputy Regional Director Apipa Bagumbaran explained that journalism means gathering and organizing factual information to make it into sensible news. She stated that journalists are indeed vital, especially since the public cannot be in the same place at the same time. 

Following this, Bagumbaran highlighted the strong necessity to be reliable in every action carried out, particularly in crafting news, so as not to bring harm or chaos.

Expounding further, she mentioned that this is ethical reporting without manipulation and biases, and true and fair presentation of information, geared towards delivering a positive effect to the public.. 

Bagumbaran also underlined that any journalist or communicator should make sure that what is publicized is guaranteed to be accurate. 

“Ang responsible sharing of information ay nagsisimula sa ating lahat. Before tayo magshare ng information, iverify muna natin ito,” she said.

(The responsible sharing of information starts with us. Before we share any information, let us verify it first.)

Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus Meranaw Cultural Heritage Director Dr. Sorhaila Latiph-Yusoph, on the other hand, stressed that the media can make and unmake a man. 

She conveyed that to be a responsible journalist, one should be meticulous in the choice of words to avoid stereotyping, check for blindspots that skew the truth, and most of all, lift all voices by contextualizing the story fully. 

“We should remember that as creators of information, we shape media narratives. We are still a work in progress,” said Yusoph. 

Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-10 Deputy Regional Director Apipa Bagumbaran details the acts following responsible journalism. (RCG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Responsible journalism making headway 

The move for responsible journalism has fortunately gained grounds, garnering support from both the government and private stakeholders. 

Inspiring all communicators and two-way radio groups in her province to continue countering disinformation and fighting for the truth, Lanao del Sur Provincial Information Officer Salma Jayne Tamano assured that the provincial government would keep on backing timely initiatives and fulfilling all relevant plans for next year. 

This was attested by Public Information Officer Zhayra Ampuan who has detailed how the same matter was given importance by Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr.

She relayed that the governor has been desiring to strengthen the Lanao federation and two-way radio groups, seeing them beneficial for residents in their province. 

“Napakaimportante ng ating two-way radio groups dahil kayo ang pinapakinggan ng karamihan dito sa Lanao del Sur,” said Ampuan. 

(Two-way radio groups are important because they are the ones being listened to by most here in Lanao del Sur.)

After the program on responsible journalism has kicked off, optimism reigns for Lanao del Sur province as it looks forward to a warm future where ethical reporting is nurtured, and disinformation is left with no room. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Two-way radio groups in Lanao del Sur province show positivity that they can be responsible reporters, and defeat disinformation. This, following their attendance in the seminar and orientation on peace journalism, and strategic planning for Ranaw media and radio frequencies. (RCG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Paving way to game-changers: SK federation sets limelight on ‘Boses ng Kabataang Meranaw’

Every nation will always be necessitated to heed the youth ideas because perfusing a society with qualities of game-changers like them will surely never go wrong. 

This has been emanating since then, particularly in the province of Lanao del Sur, which ensured that not only adults but also the young populace take the lead.

True to this, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in this place has become a platform for the youths to be capacitated and emerge as competent leaders, ready to steer their respective localities into the light of advancement through the potent branding ‘Boses ng Kabataang Meranaw’ (Voice of Meranaw Youth). 

Such a crusade commenced five years ago when Jamil Faisal Adiong was seated as the SK Federation president with nothing in mind but to amplify the voice of his fellow Meranaw youths to secure a bright future and embrace inclusivity so everyone could take part in the decision-making process. 

From 2018 to 2023, this young executive, with his co-officers and youth groups, championed the significance of unity, especially amidst unraveling crises and challenges concerning the entire constituency. 

“Kagaya nga ng isang komunidad, kapag isa lang ang sumasagot sa bawat problema na mayroon tayo, parang mahina. Hindi gaanong lumalakas at empowered ang ating community. Because of that, hindi nasosolve ang ating mga problema sa community,” he said. 

Continuing his advocacy, Adiong set the tone of young voices so they could be listened to in any way they were and should be essential. 

The birth of ‘Boses ng Kabataang Meranaw’ 

When Adiong assumed office after winning the local polls in 2018, he took on tough challenges with the primary purpose of changing the citizens' viewpoint about SK and the kind of service it could offer. 

He confirmed that they kept their promise of not politicizing their actions, instead delivering what the locals deserved.

Adiong emphasized that they embraced the responsibility that came with the power given to them, recognizing the weighty task of ensuring that the authority would benefit the people. 

Installed as the SK president, he recalled being determined to be the voice of Meranaw youths. However, this changed upon realizing a pool of diverse youths bearing different needs and perspectives from their lived realities. 

From this, turning up the volume of voices of youths became one of the priority agenda of Adiong

.

“Hindi pwedeng ako lang ang boses ng kabataang Meranaw (It is not proper that I alone would be the voice of Meranaw youth). Believing in the concept of Mashuara (consultation) and democracy, we should be able to allow people to speak and stand for themselves. Collectively, we could do more if we are together,” he said. 

Innovating transformative youth programs

Adiong's administration became an era that highlighted and brought young voices into the spotlight.

This, as numerous programs and activities were conducted and participated by thousands of youths. 

Among these were youth conversations, Mindanao International Studies Society Convention, skills development training for young women, SK presidents’ continuing mandatory training and enrichment program, Young Women Empowerment Summit, Datu a Bantogen sa Ranaw, Ranaw Young Leaders Academy, advocacy for peace, annual celebration of Linggo ng Kabataan (Youth Week) and Lanao del Sur Youth Volunteers’ Day, and the separate gathering of Lanao volunteers, young women and youth organizations.

Additional initiatives were also materialized under the helm of Adiong Ranaw, such as the Project Grant Program (RPGP) and Ranaw Youth Parliament, where youths grabbed the opportunity to pursue their project proposals with the funding of the local government and its sponsors and serve as local legislators during a period.

Adiong likewise helped answer the clamor for insufficient attention to some aspects to satisfy the desire for complete social protection.

He secured approval for the Ranaw Youth Development Plan for 2023-2025 while representing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) and successfully passing several bills he authored, ensuring the continuous implementation of his youth programs.

Youth partners of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of Lanao del Sur gather during the organized convergence. As manifested, this sector receives enough interventions, especially pushed by outgoing Lanao del Sur SK Federation President Jamil Faisal Adiong. (RCG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Keeping the momentum of Adiong’s legacy

For the past five years of heading the SK Federation, the constituents of Lanao del Sur province cannot deny nor contend that Adiong had set the bar high for public servants and officials in the government. 

He stood as a testament that despite the little connections from the beginning of his term and groping how to have a remarkable kick-off of programs, at the end of his stint, a stellar service could be proffered that would leave anyone in awe and look up to it as worthy of emulation. 

Although Adiong has already made his graceful exit, his legacy would be preserved and sustained with the usurping leader expressing his commitment. 

“Lahat ng ating sinimulan ay confident ako na magpapatuloy. Hindi lang ang aming opisina o mga kabataan kung hindi tayong lahat ang magpapalakas sa boses ng kabataang Meranaw,” he said. 

(I am confident that we will continue all that we have started. It's not just our office or the youth; all of us will strengthen the voice of Meranaw youth).

During the Convergence of Ranaw Youth Partners on November 30, the outgoing SK Federation president handed over his gavel and the Ranaw Youth Development Plan for 2023-2025 to his successor, Abdulmalik Adiong III, to signal the unfolding of a new administration sharing the same mission.

The latter ensured that the inspiring and invaluable legacy of his predecessor would continue to live on in the spirits of every Meranaw youth.

“I believe this opportunity brings me not only privileges but a great responsibility as well. I pledge to ensure the implementation of the Ranaw Youth Development Plan 2023-2025 with the help of my fellow SKs,” he said. 

Outgoing Lanao del Sur Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President Jamil Faisal Adiong (left) hands over his gavel and the Ranaw Youth Development Plan 2023-2025 to incoming SK President Abdulmalik Adiong III (center) as a sign of new governance for the youth council. (RCG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Now more than ever, the youth council of Lanao del Sur is confident that although they have never perfected their mandated jobs, the current situation of their sector is better than before.

With this, the call of the young game-changers continues, but this time, louder and clearer. Collectively, they echo, “Patuloy nating palakasin ang boses ng kabataang Meranaw (let us continue amplifying the voice of Meranaw youths).” (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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More LGUs in Lanao del Sur earn Gawad Kalasag seal

Several local government units (LGUs) in the province of Lanao del Sur have joined the ranks of disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) champions in the country.

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory announced during the 4th quarter meeting of the Provincial DRRM Council, December 13, that eight (8) LGUs earned the 2023 Gawad KALASAG "Fully Compliant" seal.

These LGUs are Marawi City and the municipalities of Bubong, Butig, Buadipuso Buntong, Calanogas, Piagapo, Taraka, and Wao, comprising 20 percent of the total number of the component LGUs of the province.

Aside from these LGUs, the provincial government of Lanao del Sur was also cited as a Gawad KALASAG Fully Compliant awardee.

"We are thankful that we are one of those awardees. We had only three awardees last year - Bubong, Piagapo, and Wao, but this year it became eight," Sambitory proudly said.

With pride in this accolade, the PDRRMO head thanked every stakeholder and the PDRRMC member agencies for their efforts and determination to enhance DRRM operations in the province, benefitting the constituents of Lanao del Sur.

He said that receiving the country’s highest recognition on DRRM and humanitarian assistance resulted from the collective efforts of every stakeholder as well as the endeavors of PDRRMC members.

Moving forward, Sambitory assured that the provincial government would double its efforts to sustain the recognition and even achieve the 'beyond compliant" seal, the highest award in disaster resiliency.

He also hopes that more LGUs in Lanao del Sur will earn the Gawad Kalasag seal next year.

KALASAG stands for KAlamidad at Sakuna LAbanan, SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan. The award aims to recognize the exceptional contributions of DRRM practitioners in implementing significant DRRM-related projects and activities and providing humanitarian response and assistance to affected communities. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory announces during the 4th quarter meeting of the Provincial DRRM Council on December 13, 2023 that the provincial government of Lanao del Sur and eight (8) other local government units in the province are cited as 2023 Gawad KALASAG awardees. (RCG/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur) 

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New speedboat seen to bolster emergency response in Lanao del Sur

The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur received a new speedboat from the Bangsamoro government to aid in the emergency response operations of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

The speedboat was turned over to the provincial government in a ceremony held Wednesday, December 13, at the Provincial Capitol Grounds this city.

Powered with outboard engines made in Japan, the speedboat has GPS ONWA Marine Radar. Former Member of Parliament (MP) Musa Diamla sponsored the well-equipped boat under his 2021 Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF),

Diamla said he opted to utilize some of his TDIF for the speedboat to help boost the capability of the PDRRMO in responding to emergencies and disasters.

The former MP also hopes that more local governments in the province will continue to benefit from the development fund of Parliament members, especially those MPs from Lanao del Sur.

PDRRMO Head Shaminoden Sambitory conveyed his gratitude to the Bangsamoro government and the former MP for the vessel, citing it as essential in calamity response.

"Mauutilize natin siya sa mga response operations sa may Lake Lanao dahil may mga drowning incidents tayo ng mga capsized boat (we can utilize it in response operations near Lake Lanao because we have drowning incidents of capsized boats)," Sambitory said.

Earlier, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications of the Bangsamoro government announced that it procured five units of speedboats through the 2021 TDIF of MPs Hadji Nabil Tan, Abraham Burahan, Musa Diamla, and Eduard Guerra. The total project cost was P12.5 million contracted under Stoneworks Specialist International Corporation.

Accordingly, three speedboats were for island municipalities in Sulu, one for Lanao del Sur PDRRMO, and the other one was for Bantay Dagat Lusain, an anti-illegal fishing group in Barangay Lusain, Kapatagan in Lanao del Sur, which was chosen as the recipient of MP Guerra to help protect Kapatagan town from illegal fishing. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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MSU heeds Marawi students’ plea for academic ease

The Mindanao State University (MSU) System administration has assured attention to the recent petition against resuming classes at the Main Campus, effective Monday, December 11, aiming to provide academic relief instead.

This, after their students marched around the university and trooped to the administration building raising signages stating “Hear our plea,” “Hustisya muna bago finals (Justice first before finals),” “Make MSU safe,” and “Protect your students, not your image,” among others. 

Such banners strongly called for the postponement of their classes and making the security of their constituency the top-most agenda following the bomb explosion at Dimaporo Gymnasium on December 3 this year, which killed four individuals and wounded 45 others. 

“Please try to hear us out. We are not enemies. We want a true safer and more secure environment for MSU, not only for students but for all those who visit the campus,” said Sharifa Muti, the audit commissioner of the Supreme Student Government (SSG).

Hearing this, Presidential Management Staff Director lawyer Rashid Pandi stressed that this message of their young constituents would not go unnoticed as they would attend to this. 

In the meantime, Pandi said they are still enforcing the declaration to continue their academic activities.

“We acknowledge the growing call from students to shift to online classes. We will consider in the coming days if there is a new deliberation on whether the university officials will reconsider its decision. So far, the decision stands. We are just here to give them an audience, to let them know that this will not go unnoticed, and to listen to them. We acknowledge their right to express their dissent,” said Pandi. 

A student of the Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus in Marawi City carries a signage calling for academic ease after a blast happened at their Dimaporo Gymnasium, and affected a number of her fellow students. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

The MSU system announced an amendment to their academic calendar, rescheduling examinations for January 2024 to assuage the academic burden on students.

Apart from this, they provided psychosocial support for those still suffering from pain and trauma resulting from the recent explosion in their campus.

Pandi confirmed that a memorandum offered specific accommodation, allowing students unprepared for face-to-face classes to be excused and receive debriefing and relevant interventions.

“Some of them have manifested that they are not yet ready to go back to in-person classes and have availed of our psychosocial interventions and services. They can contact our center and communicate their unreadiness for in-person classes. What they need is debriefing and psychosocial interventions. We acknowledge that,” he said. 

In its record, MSU logged roughly 1,900 students who went home after the blast. However, approximately 400 of them returned to the campus after availing of the transportation assistance provided by the university and some concerned local government units. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Military reiterates appeal for unity to eradicate DI-MG in Lanao Sur

The army has renewed its plea for unity to attain its ultimate goal of eradicating the extremist Dawlah Islamiya Maute Group (DI-MG) in the province of Lanao del Sur.

Col. Billy Dela Rosa, deputy commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized their ongoing efforts to defeat local terrorists who nurture security threats in communities. 

He said that despite their commitment to keep society safe, the primary consideration should be the people's determination to help each other and eventually overcome this challenge. 

Dela Rosa conveyed that this concern should not be trusted by the government officials and security sector alone, especially since this would require a collective effort. 

“Huwag nating pabayaan si Governor at Mayor, at ang mga pulis at sundalo. Kahit ilang libo pa ang mga sundalo dito sa Lanao del Sur, kung hindi kayo mag-cooperate, wala ring mangyayari (Let us not leave this to the Governor, Mayor, police, and soldiers. Even if there are thousands of soldiers here in Lanao del Sur, if we do not cooperate, nothing will happen),” he said.

Recalling the bomb explosion at Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus on December 3 this year, claimed by the DI-MG, Dela Rosa assured citizens that government forces continue their relentless operations to pursue the perpetrators and their accomplices.

"We will continue to work with the police. Our probe will continue. I'm confident that the investigation will identify and bring the perpetrators to justice," he said. 

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Lanao del Sur to focus on rido settlement, peacebuilding activities to fight lawless elements

The provincial government of Lanao del Sur has set key strategies to address lawlessness in the area, including peacebuilding activities, settling disputes (rido), posting of terror group gallery, deploying modified teams to prevent and counter violent extremism (PCVE), deradicalization of former extremists, transforming Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members, and building halfway houses.

“Let us assure our communities that we are working together to ensure that lives and properties are secured and safe in Lanao del Sur,” Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. said.

During the joint 4th quarter meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and Provincial Anti-Drugs Abuse Council (PADAC) on December 11, Adiong said the bombing incident at Mindanao State University (MSU) earlier this month has challenged their endeavors in ensuring that Marawi City and the entire province be free from lawless elements.

“Though we already put a lot of effort into eliminating this problem, it has continued to be a rising concern in places most unexpected,” he said.

With the recent atrocious incident, Adiong urged local leaders and partner agencies to work with them and the security sector to exhaust all means to eliminate the presence of lawless elements in the province.

He emphasized that the 100 percent commitment of local leaders and stakeholders is crucial in nurturing peace, adding that peace and order must be felt in their respective areas of responsibility.

The army, meanwhile, echoed the same appeal, especially in light of the fact that they have also been working to achieve their ultimate objective of driving out the extremist Dawlah Islamiya Maute Group (DI-MG) from the province.

103rd Infantry Brigade Deputy Commander Col. Billy Dela Rosa stressed that while their dedication to keeping society safe remains, the primary factor to be considered should be the determination of the public to help one another to eventually overcome this challenge.

He conveyed that this concern should not be trusted to government officials and the security sector alone, especially since this would require a collective effort.

“Huwag nating pabayaan si Governor at Mayor, at ang mga pulis at Sundalo. Kahit ilang libo pa ang mga sundalo dito sa Lanao del Sur, kung hindi kayo magcooperate, wala ring mangyayari [Let us not leave this to the governor and mayor, and the police and soldiers. Even if there are thousands of soldiers here in Lanao del Sur, if we do not cooperate, nothing will happen],” said Dela Rosa.

Amplifying security efforts

Both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have increased security efforts in line with their mission to ensure a secure environment for the residents of Lanao del Sur province.

103rd Infantry Brigade Executive Officer LtCol. Jo Anthony Lee Lalas shared that his unit had laid out programs for PCVE.

Lalas also noted that their initiatives had indeed bore fruit, as he reported that as of press time, eight members of the DI-MG were already neutralized while 26 others had surrendered. For the SRC5-NCMRC, seven members were killed, while 52 yielded.

Lalas said that the 103rd Brigade suggested that the halfway house for surrendered soldiers should get better and offer more services and programs, like a reintegration plan and E-CLIP processing, so that the PCVE program could keep making progress.

Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO) Chief Operations Officer PMaj. Muhiddin Pagayawan reported that a total of 220 suspects were arrested during their conduct of the anti-illegal drugs campaign, wherein 3,509.56 grams of shabu amounting to P23,865,008 were confiscated while 1,196 grams of dried marijuana leaves and 26,300 hills of fully grown marijuana were recovered.

Pagayawan further said that in their campaign against loose firearms, they have seized 72 individuals, confiscated 94 assorted firearms, and accepted the surrendered 243 firearms: two grenades, four rifles, and one 40-mm.

Moreover, in their response to the MSU explosion incident, the security sector detailed that they engaged with the university administration and the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC), assisted in the exodus of students, coordinated with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) incident command post, and conducted a dialogue with the immediate families of the persons of interest.

Lalas also stated that they have suggested to the PNP that they pursue the filing of appropriate charges against the perpetrators and sustain operations against them, as they would maintain the deployment of security personnel to secure the campus premises. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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MSU Marawi, Archbishops hold candle lighting rite for blast victims

In commemoration of the Mindanao Week of Peace 2023, Archbishop Antonio Ledesma and Bishop Edwin dela Peña led the candle lighting ceremony on December 11 to honor the blast victims at Dimaporo Gymnasium of Mindanao State University (MSU), Sunday, December 3, that claimed four lives and wounded 45 others. 

In the solemn rite, Bishop dela Peña thanked the people's helping hands during the frantic situation.

"Thank you very much to those tricycle drivers who helped transport the victims to the hospital, our doctors who helped kahit pa weekend, and all the people who responded promptly during the incident. What an inspiring expression of solidarity. We will never forget," he said. 

Bishop dela Peña emphasized that they do not blame the university for what happened. He said the only thing everyone can do is to help each other, regardless of religion, for the sake of safety and security of students.

Meanwhile, lawyer Rashid Pandi, MSU presidential management staff chief, shared that the university is doing its power to reach out to the victims and provide adequate assistance. 

He also urged the university's faculty and staff to encourage students to voice their grievances and sentiments, acknowledging it as the best way to move forward.

"We must care for one another regardless of our origins. Like them, we demand justice. Together, we'll demonstrate our commitment, not neglecting or abandoning them. Our actions will speak volumes. We move forward together, but listening is crucial too," Pandi said (JND/PIA Lanao del Sur)

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Marawi commemorates Mindanao Week of Peace 2023

As part of the continuous effort to promote peace and justice in Marawi, the city here joined the commemoration of the Mindanao Week of Peace 2023 held in Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus on December 11. 

City Community Affairs Officer Abulkhair Alibasa emphasized the significance of commemorating the Week of Peace, highlighting its role in symbolizing and fostering understanding and unity despite cultural differences, particularly within the city's diverse communities. 

"Peace is the thread that unites us regardless of tribe, religion, personal belief, or political affiliations. This burning desire for peace has enabled us to achieve what seemed impossible," said Alibasa. 

He added that the road to just and lasting peace in the city has not been easy since the 2017 siege, but with the steadfast commitment of the government and the constituents, the road to peace continues to grow stronger. 

"As we celebrate this event, let us remind ourselves that in unity, there is strength. Together, we can sustain the journey for peace in Mindanao, where this legacy of harmony will be passed to the generations to come."

Meanwhile, Cagayan de Oro City Archbishop Antonio Ledesma shared how important respect is in carrying out and achieving peace.

"Respect for human dignity and appreciation of various cultures and religious traditions can create a new tapestry of harmony, representing our solidarity and forging lasting peace," he said.

MSU officials, faculty, staff, city government representatives, and members of the religious sector attended the event.

As part of the Mindanao Week of Peace commemoration, the attendees--MSU officials and the Archbishop--lit candles to honor the December 3 bombing victims at the university's gymnasium. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur) 

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Do not panic: MSU urges sobriety amid heightened security, probe on campus blast

The Mindanao State University (MSU) System strongly urged the public to keep sobriety and stay calm as the security in their vicinity is on high alert as the probe is ongoing to resolve the blast case that occurred at Dimaporo Gymnasium early in the morning of December 3 this year.

This atrocious event has resulted in the loss of at least four lives, with three women pronounced dead on the spot and one man declared dead on arrival at the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC). Moreover, the incident left over 40 attendees of a Sunday congregation wounded.

MSU System Vice President for Planning and Development Engr. Rodrigo Baid saw this strike amidst a Eucharistic celebration of his church as horrific.

He emphasized that their university administration has been striving to protect and keep everyone secure. However, he maintained that no excellent man could be ready for a well-planned and organized terrorist attack, more so that they were not trained for that as they are academicians. 

While maintaining that the tragedy was an isolated case, Baid assured that university and local government officials, including the security sector, are not idle. Instead, they are rolling up their sleeves to address this situation so everyone can move forward.

“To my fellow Christians, especially my Catholic comrades, stay in full sobriety of this situation. We stay calm. Rest assured that the MSU administration is doing its best to contain and address this thing,” he said. 

Earlier, MSU System President Lawyer Basari Mapupuno strongly denounced the explosion, which has caused so much anger, hurt, frustration, and pain. It has cast gloom and apprehension on the part of the Christian and Catholic members of their Main Campus community.

After praying for justice for the victims, he reminded the public that the root of this consummated evilness was terrorism, which accordingly recognizes no religion or socio-economic background.

Countering this, Mapupuno disclosed that they have been convening and consulting with relevant offices and college deans to devise doable solutions so this would never recur in the coming days.

Despite the anguish and fear, the university president said the institution should recover and rise from what had befallen it.

To achieve this, he encouraged everyone to play their part and assist their Dakilang Pamantasan (Great University) in moving forward from this chapter, continuing its journey of bringing hope and peace to their land.

Mapupuno also urged the public to be watchful and cooperate with the authorities while staying prudent in dealing with and posting their sentiments on social media to utilize it as a channel of unity instead of divisiveness. 

Despite this unexpected scourge, Mapupuno urged the entire constituency to keep loving the institution, which has proven through time how it shed hope for many. 

“Hindi ka mahirap mahalin, MSU. Sa loob ng mahigit anim na dekada, maraming kang biniyayaan ng liwanag at pag-asa, at naging dahilan ka kung bakit nakamit ng marami ang kanilang mga matatayog na pangarap (You are not hard to love, MSU. For more than six decades, you have provided light and aspirations, and became the reason why lots have reached their great dreams). Because of this, we should love you all the more. Let us all stand for peace and unity. Let us all stand for MSU,” he said. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Bangko Sentral honors 2 BARMM ministries with Outstanding Stakeholder Award

Two ministries from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) were honored as outstanding stakeholders of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) during the Mindanao leg of the 2023 Outstanding BSP Stakeholders Appreciation Ceremony (OBSAC) at Limketkai Luxe Hotel, this city, December 5. 

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), headed by Minister Mohammad Yacob, was named an Outstanding Partner for Sources of Information.

Similarly, the Ministry of Trade, Investment, and Tourism (MTIT)-Maguindanao Provincial Office, led by Provincial Director Romeo Diocolano, was acknowledged as an Outstanding Partner for Financial Advocacy and Inclusion.

MAFAR actively partnered with the BSP by providing vital regional data and insights for the 2022 BARMM economic development report.

MTIT Maguindanao, on the other hand, has been a consistent partner of BSP Cotabato Branch and BSP Mindanao Regional Office. It organized online financial education sessions and face-to-face activities in different local government units within its operational area.

Since 2004, OBSAC has served as a platform for BSP to honor valuable partnerships that positively affect the lives of Filipinos.

BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat thanked its partners for their unwavering support. The awards, she explained, represent small tokens compared to their substantial contributions to BSP. She also specified that the partnership ensured the inclusion of every Filipino in the advocacies and initiatives of the government. 

“With the help of our partners, BSP has provided an enabling environment for sustainable and inclusive growth. Together, we are pursuing a state where no Filipino is left behind," she said. (APB/PIA-10)

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Security sector positions measure to resolve Marawi explosion case

Security forces are now putting in place some measures as a probe is currently done to find a solution to the explosion case that transpired at Dimaporo gymnasium of Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus on December 3 this year. 

Following the incident, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. came over to this city to inspect the location of the crime, enforce actions in answer to the event, and ensure that the same incident would not happen again in the future. 

Here, he led a command conference together with other officials of the Philippine Army (PA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). 

Brawner has earlier expressed his sadness, saying his most recent visit to the 103rd Infantry Brigade was unfortunate as this was due to a tragedy. 

Despite this, he was however reminded of the dedication of everyone to be united to address any tragedy and calamity.

“Tayo ay pumunta dito sa (We went to) Marawi City on the orders of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. para tingnan nang personal kung ano ang situation sa (to see personally the situation of) Marawi City, and to see for myself how the AFP leadership and the security forces can assist in our effort to go after the perpretarors, and prevent the occurrence of this similar incident kasi ayaw nating paulit-ulit itong insidenteng ito na nangyari sa MSU (because we do not want this incident that happened at the MSU to be repeated,” said Brawner. 

During the conference, Western Mindanao Command Commander LtGen. William Gonzales bared that he had already issued an instruction and directive to all commanders under his helm to use all their resources and capabilities to go after the perpetrators and bring them to justice. 

He stated that an ongoing massive operation was conducted to hunt the terrorist group where the responsible persons belong.

Gonzales also detailed that to mitigate the effect of the bombing particularly to the MSU and its constituency, they augmented one company of military to secure the area, and guarantee that it is clear and safe. 

He noted that their troops would stay there until such time that they could create an integrated, passive, and active security system in coordination with the university administration. 

“Rest assured that the army will really go after the perpetrators. We will see to it that the people here will secure and keep the people safe. That will be our commitment,” said Gonzales. 

Meanwhile, Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) Director PBGen. Allan Nobleza announced their declaration of full alert not only in this city and Lanao del Sur province but the whole Bangsamoro region. 

Accordingly, this signified that additional policemen would be seen along the streets doing police visibility and strictly conducting checkpoint operations and other anti-criminality operations. 

Nobleza stated that they have deployed one company from their Regional Mobile Force Battalion to eleven strategic locations inside the MSU to secure the parameter alongside the AFP and the university’s security department. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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PNP creates special task group to probe Marawi blast

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has formed a special investigation task group (SITG) to delve into the tragic explosion at Mindanao State University (MSU) on December 3, which claimed four lives and wounded 45 others.

PNP chief Brig. Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. appointed Col. Robert Daculan, director of Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO), to head the SITG. 

The team will work tirelessly to unravel the perpetrators and the motives behind the attack. 

Police reports showed three female church service attendees died on the spot, while a man was declared dead upon arrival at Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC). 

Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Acorda said that the loss of four lives and the suffering of 45 injured individuals epitomize a brutal act.

The PNP, he said, would deploy extra company alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to boost the state university students' security and safety. 

"We want to restore normalcy as soon as possible and assure the residents, students, and school officials that the PNP and AFP, as the security forces, are here. We are ready. We will do our best,” he declared. 

Likewise, Police Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), commits to investigate, apprehend, and bring perpetrators to justice.

He said they are exploring all possible aspects, including the recent focused military operation in Datu Hoffer Ampatuan town, Maguindanao del Sur province, which wiped out eleven members of a Dawlah Islamiya-inspired group, and neutralization of an Abu Sayyaf group bomber in Basilan province.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Gabriel Viray III, commander of the 1st Infantry Division, disclosed that the investigation also considers the potential retaliation by the Dawlah Islamiya Maute Group (DI-MG) following the elimination of one of its sub-leaders in a military encounter at Piagapo town in Lanao del Sur.

Viray urged the community to work together, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility. 

"Please report any unusual incidents or suspicious individuals roaming in the city. The AFP and PNP vowed to ensure the safety of Lanao del Sur and its citizens," he said. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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