36 high school students showcase culinary talents

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The provincial government of Lanao del Sur through the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office hosted its first Inter-School Culinary Contest on July 25 showcasing the culinary talents of local students.

The competition featured 12 teams with three members each from Sultan Mangalampa Daing National High School, Pooni Lomabao Memorial National High School, Bubonga-Marantao National High School, Mohammad Qaba-El National High School, Unda Memorial National Agricultural School, Datu Aleem Balindong National High School, Racman Pimping Maniri Dumarpa National Science High School, RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc-SHS, Dhayfullah Islamic Institute Foundation Inc., 21st Integrated Learning Academy Inc., Marawi City National High School, and Ganassi National High School.

RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc (RC-AKIC) Senior High School emerged as the grand champion, while Bubonga Marantao National High School claimed the first runner-up spot and the Best Appetizer award. Rounding out the top three was 21st Integrated Learning Center Inc.

The winning teams received trophies and cash prizes, with the champion receiving P50,000, the first runner-up P30,000, and the second runner-up P15,000. Consolation prizes of P5,000 were also given to the remaining participants.

Coach Asnawi Campong of RC-AKIC expressed pride in his students’ achievement, attributing their success to the platform provided by the provincial government. He emphasized the importance of such events in discovering and nurturing young culinary talents in Lanao del Sur.

“Gya a program tano imanto na tanto ko mapiya phagilayn sabap sa pkhailay tano so mga wata tano saya sa Lanao del Sur a adna mga talent iran pagdating sa kapaninindaan. As a coach of RC-AKIC, grabe so kaba at excitement ko while my students are doing their dish. A big salute po to our provincial government for this very wonderful and successful program. Pangninta di aya mbaloy a kaposan ka aya mbaloy a poonan a kamapiyaan o mga wata tano saya sa Lanao del Sur,” he said.

(This program is truly amazing because we can see the skills of our students from Lanao del Sur in the field of cooking. As the coach of RC-AKIC, I felt a great deal of nervousness and excitement while my students were preparing their dishes. A big salute to our provincial government for this wonderful and successful program. I hope this is not the last but the beginning of great things for our youth here in Lanao del Sur.)

A total of 36 students from 12 schools in Lanao del Sur participated in the first Inter-School Culinary Contest organized by the Provincial Tourism, Culture and the Arts Office. Each school had a team of three students who competed to showcase their culinary skills and preserve the province's gastronomic heritage. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10)

Judges for the competition included Chef Ansary Cali from The Fam Grill, Chef Mon Cardenas of Monster Kitchen, and Office of the Provincial Governor Chief of Staff Yarra Macarambon who praised the students for their skills and ability to preserve and showcase the province’s culinary traditions.

“Sobrang galing niyong lahat. Beyond my expectation. And sobrang impressed ako kasi at that young na-maintain niyo or pinag-aaralan nio na ang Meranaw cuisine, because honestly, I’ve tried different international cuisine but I never ever dared to try Meranaw cuisine kasi para sa akin para sacred siya e. Parang gusto kong matuto but maybe in time ‘pag alam kong kaya ko na. So, could you just imagine how impressed I am sa inyong lahat. For me, lahat kayo panalo.”

(You all did so amazingly beyond my expectations. I’m extremely impressed because, at such a young age, you’ve already maintained or are studying Meranaw cuisine. Honestly, I’ve tried different international cuisines, but I never dared to try Meranaw cuisine because, to me, it feels sacred. It’s like I want to learn it, but maybe in time, when I feel ready. So, you can just imagine how impressed I am with all of you. For me, you’re all winners.)

This culinary competition follows the success of last year’s municipal-level contest, highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to promoting and preserving Lanao del Sur’s gastronomic heritage.

This event marked the second culinary competition organized by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur, following the success of last year’s municipal-level contest. (ABR/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Meranaw dishes take center stage in inter-school culinary showdown

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Lanao del Sur’s rich culinary heritage was on full display as the province hosted its first inter-school culinary competition. A cornerstone event for the province’s 65th founding anniversary celebration, the competition was organized by the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office (PTCAO) on July 25, 2024.

Twelve schools from across the province battled it out, with aspiring chefs showcasing their skills in appetizer and main course categories. A unique challenge for contestants was the mandatory use of Tugaya (candlenut) oil, a local ingredient, in all dishes.

Participating schools included Sultan Mangalampa Daing National High School, Pooni Lomabao Memorial National High School, Bubonga-Marantao National High School, Mohammad Qaba-El National High School, Unda Memorial National Agricultural School, Datu Aleem Balindong National High School, Racman Pimping Maniri Dumarpa National Science High School, RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc-SHS, Dhayfullah Islamic Institute Foundation Inc.,21st Integrated Learning Academy Inc., Marawi City National High School, and Ganassi National High School.

“Sa mga ganitong program, pwede nating mapromote ang Lanao delSur bilang pinakaunang probinsiya sa buong bansa na makaestablish ng Halal industry. Sa mga activities din na ganito, makikita natin ang skills ng mga estudyante,” said Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong.

(Through these programs, we can promote Lanao del Sur as a pioneer in establishing the Halal industry nationwide. These kinds of activities also allow us to showcase the talents of our students.)

A variety of Meranaw dishes, including biyareng, chicken piyaparan, chicken randang, and piyaparan a bakas,were presented. The dishes were judged based on taste, presentation, execution, and overall texture

“The competition is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and cultural pride of our Meranaw students,” said Provincial Tourism Officer Ahmad Nour-al-dinn Tamano Jr.

Tamano also expressed admiration for the students’ dedication to preserving their culinary heritage. He was impressed by their eagerness to participate in the competition and their talent in showcasing the rich traditions of Lanao del Sur.

A Farmers Market was integrated into the event, allowing participants to source the necessary ingredients for their culinary creations. The market showcased locally grown produce, supporting local farmers and producers. Unused items were donated to identified torils (Islamic non-formal learning institutions accepting stay-in learners) in the province.

A Farmers Market offered free local produce to participants of the first Lanao del Sur inter-school culinary showdown. Leftover ingredients went to local communities after the competition. (Photo: OSG/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

To add to the excitement, a bench cheering competition was held among the participants’ supporters.

The PTCAO expressed its intention to host another culinary event to further elevate the profile of Meranaw cuisine. Last year’s PTCAO culinary competition featured local government units in the province. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Photo contest spotlights Meranaw cuisine

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – Over 50 aspiring food photographers captured the essence of Meranaw cuisine through their lenses during the recent food photography contest organized by the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office (PTCAO) of Lanao del Sur. The event was part of the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur celebration dubbed “Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok.”

With “Meranaw Food” as its theme, the contest aimed to highlight the rich culinary heritage of the province. Participants across Lanao del Sur showcased their best shots, competing for top honors.

The winners were announced during the Inter-School Culinary Competition at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium in Marawi City on July 25. Jalani P. Pacasum emerged as the grand champion, securing his second consecutive victory in a PTCAO photography contest. His stunning photograph of “Tapay,” a refreshing Meranaw dessert, impressed the judges with its creativity and composition.

“Actually, in 2022, ako yung nanalo showcasing the Sarimanok Stadium. Alhamdulillah, ako pa rin yung winner this year,” he exclaimed happily.

(I won the contest in 2022 showcasing the Sarimanok Stadium. Alhamdulillah, I’ve won again this year!)

Pacasum received a cash prize of P15,000.

The contest also recognized its runners-up. Nasif Hadji Hassan placed fourth with “Biaring a Odang,” winning P10,000. Albassam Tambor placed third for “Pater,” receiving P7,000. Nabel Abdulcader came in second with “Dodol Food Arts,” earning P5,000.

Norjehanie A. Paramata’s photo, “Dodolan sa Ganassi,” was the People’s Choice. The remaining finalists received consolation prizes.

The PTCAO’s initiative to feature Meranaw cuisine through photography is a testament to the province’s commitment to promoting its cultural heritage and enticing tourists to experience the province’s unique flavors. (OSG/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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UNICEF, EU empower Lanao del Sur communities for disaster resilience

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — UNICEF, in partnership with the European Union, is boosting the resilience of communities in Lanao del Sur through a three-year project aimed at building capacity and delivering essential services.

Sitti Vilma Quin, UNICEF Mindanao Field Office Emergency Focal and Child Protection Officer, emphasized the project’s focus on disaster preparedness and response during the Lanao del Sur Disaster Resilience Summit held on July 22-23, 2024.

“We believe that the strength of the community lies in its ability to anticipate disasters, to prepare for disasters and emergencies, to respond, and more importantly, to recover from any forms of emergencies,” she said.

Through a series of community dialogues and capacity-building activities, the project has reached over 2,500 individuals, including children, adolescents, women, and local government officials.

The project has conducted emergency preparedness and response training for 17 municipalities, with plans to reach the remaining towns of Lanao del Sur by the end of the year.

Additionally, UNICEF will work with local government units in the province to enhance and update their disaster risk reduction and management plans.

UNICEF remains committed to supporting the resiliency and building the capacity of the province in terms of delivering essential services and maintaining its capacity and strength to prepare and respond to disasters,” Quin added.  (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur) 

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Lanao del Sur urged to invest in disaster risk management, education

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has called on Lanao del Sur to bolster its disaster resilience through increased investments in risk management, innovation, and education.

Speaking at the Lanao del Sur Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22-23, 2024, OCD-BARMM Regional Director Joel Mamon emphasized the critical role of these factors in empowering communities for effective response and recovery during emergencies.

Mamon also underscored the importance of learning from past disasters, stating, “Disaster incidents teach us the importance of preparedness and proactive planning.”

The OCD official further pointed out the significance of collective action, emphasizing that building a resilient community requires the united efforts of everyone.

He called for a whole-of-nation approach involving civil society, the private sector, and government agencies to work together and build a culture of preparedness and safety.

“Each of us plays a vital role in strengthening our community’s preparedness and response capabilities,” Mamon added. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur PHO calls for collaboration to address climate change’s health impacts

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The Provincial Health Officer (PHO) of Lanao del Sur issued a call to action on climate change, highlighting its significant impact on public health.

Dr. Princess Elham A. Sacar emphasized the urgency of collective action to mitigate climate risks and strengthen healthcare systems’ resilience against environmental threats.

She stressed the particular vulnerability of populations like the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those with chronic illnesses to the effects of climate change.

“Climate change may increase the risk and the cases of infectious diseases as well as its spread to new geographical areas, thereby causing the emergence and re-emergence of these infectious diseases,” Sacar said during the Lanao del Sur Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22.

The health officer said climate variability increases the risk of infectious diseases, with flooding and contaminated water sources contributing to the spread of waterborne illnesses like cholera and typhoid. Changing climate conditions also expand tick habitats, raising concerns about the emergence of tick-borne diseases in previously unaffected areas.

Sacar added that extreme weather events damage agricultural production and contaminate water sources, leading to malnutrition and increased waterborne illnesses.

Beyond physical health concerns, Sacar underscored the impact of climate change on mental well-being. She said that more frequent and severe weather events can cause anxiety, depression, and stress, while long-term environmental degradation and loss of livelihoods contribute to feelings of grief and hopelessness.

“The loss of homes, livelihoods, and loved ones due to climate change can cause intense grief and mourning, which can have long-lasting impacts on our mental health.  Also, climate-induced displacement and disruption of social and community support systems can exacerbate mental health issues and lead to feelings of isolation and loss of identity,” she explained.

Sacar further highlighted the strain placed on healthcare systems by climate change. According to her, extreme weather events disrupt healthcare facility operations through power outages, health infrastructure damage, and a surge in demand for services related to climate-sensitive illnesses.

“For us to be disaster resilient, we need to be health resilient,” she concluded. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur champions community strength with photo, video contests

MARAWI CITY (PIA ) — In observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month and the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has launched its “Tales and Chronicles of Disaster Resilience” Photo and Video Contests.

These contests aim to showcase the impact of disasters on communities across the province while highlighting the valuable practices that have fostered resilience in overcoming these challenges.

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory underscored the significance of the contest, particularly in illuminating the efforts and initiatives undertaken by Local Government Units (LGUs) through their respective DRRM offices.

He acknowledged the existence of countless untold stories of resilience within Lanao del Sur communities, stating that the urgency of saving lives during emergencies often overshadows the remarkable acts of heroism and resourcefulness displayed by the local DRRMOs.

“Each municipality, each community, has its own tales of disaster resilience. However, some of these were not known to the public because they (local DRRMOs) are more focused on saving lives. But through these (contests), we can showcase how they are working and recognize the patriotic or heroic acts that they are doing for their communities,” Sambitory stated.

Winners will be announced during the Provincial Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22-23, 2024. They will receive public recognition and cash prizes. The top three photo contest winners will receive P20,000, P15,000, and P10,000, respectively. Similarly, the top three video contest winners will be awarded P30,000, P20,000, and P15,000, respectively. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur gov’t simplifies access to services, boosts local businesses

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur spearheaded a Government Services Exhibit and Food Bazaar, an innovative “one-stop shop” to simplify public access to essential services while promoting local businesses.

The weeklong event, held at the Provincial Capitol Gym on July 15-21, provided locals with convenient access to services offered by various government agencies, including the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform, Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO), National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Civil Service Commission (CSC), Cooperative and Social Enterprise Authority (CSEA), Pag-IBIG Fund, GSIS, PhilHealth, Amanah Islamic Bank, Land Bank, Philippine National Bank, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Philippine Post Corporation, and Marawi City Treasurer’s Office.

MOLE Provincial Head Norolain Dimaluna commended the provincial government, stating that consolidating agencies in one location significantly facilitated public access to essential government services.

The one-stop shop also served as a platform for public education, according to Mohammad Cayongcat, head of LTFRB Lanao del Sur. He reported that their booth served an average of 20-25 individuals daily, providing information about the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program requirements to commuters and stakeholders in the transport sector.

The Food Bazaar section, on the other hand, offered a showcase for local Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Malano Mai, senior trade and industry development specialist of MTIT Lanao del Sur, said the setup promoted the catering services of local MSMEs to government agencies, potentially leading to future partnerships.

“Maganda ang set-up kasi napromote sa mga government agencies yung mga catering services ng mga MSMEs para kung may mga activities yung mga agencies, pwede nilang ma tap yung mga MSME-caterers natin,” she added.

(The setup is good because the catering services of MSMEs were promoted to government agencies so that if the agencies have activities, they can tap our MSME caterers.)

Mai expressed optimism that these agencies would consider hiring local caterers for future events, fostering a stronger local economy.

The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur hosted a weeklong event, combining a Government Services Exhibit with a Food Bazaar. This one-stop shop brought essential government services directly to the public, while also promoting the products of local food businesses. (DCC/PIA-10)

Meanwhile, NF Catering Services owner Noraisah Pangcoga described her participation in the provincial government’s food bazaar as a highly motivating experience. Having never participated in such an event before, Pangcoga was delighted by the consistent increase in her daily sales. She highlighted that this platform provided a valuable opportunity for her home-based business to expand its business reach.

“Through this also, nakapamigay kami ng flyers sa mga government agencies at mayroong nag-iinquire na din sa service namin (we were able to distribute flyers to government agencies, and some have already inquired about our services),” she said. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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DENR-10 maintains support for Marawi despite sanitary landfill turnover

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-10, through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), assures continued support for Marawi City despite the turnover of the 31.7-hectare sanitary landfill facility (SLF) to the local government.

EMB-10 Director Reynaldo Digamo clarified DENR’s commitment during the eighth episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on July 16, saying, “While the responsibility for monitoring the facility now lies with the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) through its Environment Bureau, our support for Marawi City hasn’t ceased entirely.”

Digamo emphasized DENR’-10’s ongoing commitment by addressing minor construction concerns raised by Marawi Mayor Majul Gandamra. According to him, a project manager, along with representatives from the local government of Marawi, has been deployed to assess and validate the structures needing repair or reinforcement.

This supports DENR’s role as mandated by the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (R.A. 9003), which tasks EMB with overseeing the establishment and operation of sanitary landfills.

Environmental Management Bureau-10 Regional Director Reynaldo Digamo explained during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on July 16, 2024, the status of the 31.7-hectare sanitary landfill facility built by DENR in Marawi City as part of the massive government-led recovery and rehabilitation program for the war-torn city. (Photo: SAYU/PIA-10)

In northern Mindanao, there are 36 operational landfills across the region: 20 in Bukidnon, Camiguin (1), Lanao del Norte (5), Misamis Occidental (3), and Misamis Oriental (7).

DENR-10 Regional Executive Director Henry A. Adornado said efforts are also underway to expand and improve waste management infrastructure in the region.

“This is crucial to address the region’s solid waste challenges and promote environmental sustainability,” he added. (APB/PIA-10)

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14,495 seek compensation for Marawi siege losses as filing period closes

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) said it has received a total of 14,495 filed claims from individuals seeking compensation for losses incurred during the 2017 Marawi.

The MCB concluded its claim filing period on July 3, as mandated by Republic Act 11696, or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022.

Out of this total, 5,701 solely dealt with the loss of personal property, 209 concentrated on structural damage, and 192 claimed civilian deaths.

Recognizing the need for a swift resolution, MCB Chairperson, Lawyer Maisara Damdamun Latiph, said the board has implemented measures to expedite claim processing.

“We launched an online filing system in October 2023, making the process more accessible to those who are unable to travel or who prefer to submit their claims remotely. We have also established online and physical help desks to assist those who need help with the application process. We launched our Docket Status Tracking System so claimants could track the progress of their claims,” she said.

As of July 3, the MCB has approved 565 applications and disbursed a total of P222 million to claimants

.

Latiph expressed confidence in the MCB’s ability to fulfill its mandate before it ceases operation. She also assured claimants that the board remains committed to disbursing all approved claims while upholding the integrity of the process. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Marawi Compensation Board Chairperson, Lawyer Maisara Damdamun Latiph, expressed confidence in the board’s ability to fulfill its mandate. She assured claimants that the board would strive to disburse all approved claims while maintaining the integrity of their work. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur PHO urges sanitation, awareness as La Niña approaches

 

Dr. Princess Elham Sacar, head of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Health Office, called for strengthening the role of sanitary inspectors at both the barangay and municipal levels to monitor environments and proactively identify potential health hazards. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY (PIA) –- The Lanao del Sur Provincial Health Office (PHO) is taking proactive measures to address health concerns as La Niña looms.

“We know that diarrheal diseases such as cholera, pwede magkaroon iyan ng outbreak, and vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria. Iyong Malaria hindi iyan masyado sa atin because the mosquito hindi naman masyado nakikita sa atin. But the dengue, hindi na iyan mawala-wala sa top list natin sa hospitals. So ‘yun iyong mga i-watch out natin. And then, of course iyong leptospirosis huwag din nating kakalimutan because of the flooding,” said PHO Head Dr. Princess Elham A. Sacar, during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Meeting.

(We know that diarrheal diseases such as cholera can lead to outbreaks, as well as vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. We don’t frequently encounter the malaria mosquito here, so it’s not a major concern. However, dengue consistently ranks at the top of our hospital cases. These are the diseases we need to watch out for. Additionally, we must not forget about leptospirosis due to the flooding.)

Sacar explained that contaminated water and unsanitary environments are the breeding grounds for these diseases. Dengue mosquitoes, for instance, can lay up to 100 eggs in stagnant water, posing a significant risk.

To combat these threats, Sacar emphasized the importance of proper sanitation and water hygiene during La Niña. She called for strengthening the role of sanitary inspectors at both the barangay and municipal levels to monitor environments and proactively identify potential health hazards.

She also emphasized that Rural Health Units (RHUs) should educate and inform community members about dengue and diarrheal diseases such as cholera, and leptospirosis for early detection, management, and treatment.

“Kailangan reading-ready iyong mga RHUs natin when it comes to adequate supply of medicines at saka kung papaano i-manage iyong mga diseases na mag-iincrease during this La Niña,” she said.

(Our RHUs need to be well-equipped with an adequate supply of medicines and the capability to manage the expected rise in disease during this La Niña.)

She said RHUs should have antibiotics like doxycycline for leptospirosis and bacterial infections, as well as antiparasitics for parasite-borne illnesses. (EZMM/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur opening spotlights Meranaw achievers

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur launched the month-long celebration of the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur (Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok Festival) on July 4, beginning with a ceremony to recognize individuals who have achieved distinction for Lanao del Sur.

Acknowledged at the event were WBC Female World Atomweight Champion Nor-Farajane Guro Sabellina, 3rd Qatar International Qur’an Competition champion Mohammad Nadhir Asgar Jr., Harvard Medical School Top 3 Capstone Authors Dr. Aslama Masacal Alauya-Lamping, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Majmaah University valedictorian Nor Jamal Batugan, among others.

Grateful for the recognition, these individuals appreciated the provincial government for honoring their contributions and vowed to inspire future generations.

“I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the province of Lanao del Sur for bestowing on me the Pride of Ranaw award. This esteemed recognition is not just a testament to my efforts but a reflection of the province’s unwavering commitment to celebrating and honoring the achievements of its constituents. It is an acknowledgment that together, as a community, we can achieve greatness,” said Batugan

Alauya-Lamping, a physician specializing in pulmonary and internal medicine,  expressed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and its role in her academic journey. She stated that one of her motivations for studying at Harvard was her identity as a Meranaw.

Sabellina, on the other hand, shared that the recognition as the first woman of the Bangsamoro to achieve the world atomweight boxing championship has been more than just a personal achievement; it is a testament to the unwavering support and belief of her family, mentors, and the entire province that has stood steadfastly behind her.

“I am reminded of the power of dreams and the potential within us. Regardless of our circumstances, I hope my journey serves as inspiration, especially to the young women of Lanao del Sur, encouraging them to pursue their passions with relentless determination and embrace their cultural identity with pride,” she added.

The Pagana Meranaw, which kicked off Lanao del Sur’s 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur (Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok Festival) on July 4, 2024, honored exceptional Meranaw achievers. Deeply grateful for the provincial government’s recognition, these individuals expressed their gratitude and affirmed their dedication to inspiring future generations. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

The ceremony also recognized the Kamapiyaan sa Tagoranao Marketing Cooperative’s collective efforts. Their “Kakaw Meranaw” chocolate project received the AVPA Paris 2023 Medal Gourmet Chocolate of Local Origin award.

Sittie Aisah Balt, Kakaw Meranaw project head, said their social enterprise is a collective effort with passion and dedication to help. “I didn’t realize I was already helping not just one person but a community,” she added.

Other awardees were Mohammad Nur Casib, bronze medalist in the 2022 and 2023 International Mathematical Olympiad; Samsodin Abdulrahman, gold medalist for Singapore Body Weightlifting International; Jamal Rahmat Pandi Jr., silver medalist for badminton in the 13th ASEAN School Games; and Abdul Barode, bronze medalist in the PUBG Mobile SEA Games. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur’s “Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok” celebration kicks off

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur officially launched its month-long founding anniversary celebration, dubbed “Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok,” with a traditional “Pagana Meranaw” ceremony at the provincial capitol gym on July 4.

Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Rakiin-Adiong led the ceremony, joined by provincial government officials, representatives from national and regional agencies in the province, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

Adiong emphasized the celebration’s importance in promoting Meranaw identity and cultural preservation. He also called for unity and cooperation among the Meranaw people to achieve progress, peace, and order in Lanao del Sur and contribute to developing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The month-long celebration features various activities, including stakeholder engagements focused on youth development, disaster risk reduction, women’s and children’s issues, innovative governance, and sustainable development in the province. These are the Ranao Youth Summit (July 9–11), the Disaster Resilience Summit (July 22–23), the CSO Summit (July 24), and the ICT Summit (July 26).

Several contests will showcase the talents and skills of Lanao del Sur residents, including the Ranaw Sensation Finals (July 30), an interschool culinary competition (July 25), chess, scrabble, and dart tournaments (July 8–10), essay writing (July 22), photography and video-making contests (July 19–23), and quiz bowl (July 28).

Sports enthusiasts can participate in a marathon, walkathon, off-road racing (July 25–26), an airsoft tournament (July 20–21), badminton and volleyball tournaments, a cycling adventure around the lake (July 27), and “Kasipa sa Ranaw,” an exhibition featuring Meranaw cultural masters playing the traditional sport “Kapisa sa Lama” (July 10, 17, and 24).

Activities geared towards revitalizing agriculture, business, and the environment include a livestock and poultry congress (July 24),  a food service supplier expo (July 5–6), a Ranao Lake coastal clean-up drive, and community tour guiding training.

Completing the activities is the food bazaar and government services exhibit (July 15–19), where visitors can enjoy local delicacies while accessing important services offered by national, regional, and provincial agencies, including financial and medical assistance payouts, minor surgical services, and dental and optical missions. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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