IMAGE OF THE DAY

Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone & Freeport Authority Chairman Georgina Yu (2nd from left) proudly endorses trendy scooters displayed at the booth of Demark Motor Philippines Inc. during the opening day of the 15th Mindanao Business Conference at the Garden Orchid Hotel in Zamboanga City. She is flanked by MinBizCon organizers led by Romeo Serra, chairman, and Teresita Uy-Sebastian, conference director. DEMAK motorcycles, manufactured in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia and assembled in Zamboanga City, are now being distributed by 177 Emcor outlets throughout Mindanao and Visayas. The first motorcycle assembly plant in Mindanao was established at the Zamboanga Freeport in December 2005. (HADER GLANG)

15th Mindanao Business Conference begins today
text HADER GLANG

The 15th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) started here Thursday with a focus on key economic, development, and business issues that Mindanao faces, and the many opportunities for doing business in the region among other issues.

Hundreds of delegates, including investors and partners from BIMP East ASEAN neighbors, China, Italy, Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Australia, Canada, and United States are attending the confab, which also discuss Mindanao’s mining prospects, the region tourism and ICT infrastructure challenges.

Hosted by the Mindanao Business Council, the government of Zamboanga City, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Zamboanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation Inc., among others, the meeting is dubbed “Mindanao—The Best of the Philippines.”

The conference at the Garden Orchid Hotel will run until Saturday.

The three-day conference will look at where Mindanao is now, the socio-economic gains the region has achieved over the years, and how they can be fostered and enhanced further.

Local entrepreneurs will also have the chance to showcase their products to both local and international buyers. Small and medium enterprises in the region are expected to tap new markets for their products, organizers of the event said.

Activities lined up include business summit, plenary sessions, special tours, a golf invitational friendship tournament, fellowship, and trade exposition featuring the winning products of Mindanao and the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Sessions will focus on investing in Mindanao, the region’s mining prospects, its tourism, mineral development and economy, ICT infrastructure challenges, business climate, and business prospects for off-grip areas in the region.

“We are showcasing investment, tourism opportunities as well as our products and services as well. So this is really an opportunity for us to tell the national government about our policy advocacies and to also showcase to the rest of the world and the rest of the Philippines what we can do in Zamboanga,” said Romeo Serra, MinBizCon chairman.

Five major concerns—employment, mining, shipping, power and e-services—have been identified in the Mindanao Action Agenda of conference.Conference director Teresita Uy-Sebastaion, who is also the regional governor of the Zamboanga Peninsula Chamber of Commerce an Industry, said some of the country’s top business leaders and government economic managers are expected to attend the gathering.

She said among those attending are Dr. Lucio Tan, Lucio Tan Group of Companies chairman, John B. Ridsel, Canadian mining firm TVI Resource Development Phil. Inc corporate adviser; Peter Henrie Sutherland, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines; and Gil Genio, Innove Communication Inc. chief executive.

Representing the government are Trade Secretary Peter B. Favila, who will deliver the keynote speech and Jesus Dureza, the presidential adviser on peace.

Dureza will brief the participants in overview of the present efforts of government and private sectors in enforcing peace in Mindanao for development.

Businessman Joey Concepcion 3rd, presidential consultant on entrepreneurship, will give a talk on developing and improving small and medium scale enterprises.
On the other hand, Tourism Undersecretary Oscar P. Palabyab will tell how to further tap the potential of Mindanao as one of the world’s top tourist destination sites.

"The presence of these top business leaders will surely change the present image of Mindanao, since the problem on peace and order has been the major stumbling block in luring investors to do business in Mindanao," Ms. Sebastian told The Manila Times.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is scheduled to grace the confab on Sept. 2, the closing program.

The annual MinBizCon is the advocate and voice of Mindanao. It embodies the collective aspiration and commitment of Mindanao to the island’s economic development, to put it in the mainstream of national growth. It is the initiative that works with government for policy and development action to enable all that Mindanao is capable of. (ZS)

ARMM Bill splitting Maguindanao into two provinces enacted

text ALI MACABALANG

The Regional Legislative Assembly (RLA) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has passed the bill creating a sixth province for ARMM in honor of the legendary Islamic missionary Shariff Kabungsuan.

Lawyer Paisalin Tago, regional speaker, told reporters Monday the 24-member RLA unanimously passed in a marathon session Friday ARMM Bill No. 45 splitting Maguindanao into two provinces in what he described as a response to an inferred "popular clamor" from Maguindanaons.

Under the new local edict, Maguindanao will retain its name and cover the present province’s second Congressional district composed of 19 towns with Shariff Aguak still its capital site, while Shariff Kabungsuan will constitute the existing nine towns in Maguindanao’s first distirct.

The legislation of Bill No. 45 has passed through thorough processes including a series of field hearings and studies ensuring that the new province would meet the legal standards on population, area, revenues and etc., Tago pointed out.

In fact, Tago said, the towns constituting Shariff Kabungsuan are posting bigger revenues than those of Maguindanao’s second district because the former area has wood, textile and starch factories.

The Cotabato airport and international seaport are also located in the new province, he added. Tago said the creation of Shariff Kabungsuan province is also a "pet project" of Maguindanao Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan, father of incumbent ARMM Gov. Zaldy Uy Ampatuan.

It likewise honors Shariff Kabungsuan, the Islamic missionary who helped propagate Islam in the Philippines through the south, he said.

According to the RLA speaker, arrangements were underway for the ARMM chief executive to sign into law the new legislative measure this week.

Upon its signing into law, the measure would entail the Commission on Elections to hold a plebiscite for Maguindanao’s over 300,000 voters to approve or reject it.

This early, however, ARMM Governor Ampatuan has predicted a popular approval of the creation of Shariff Kabungsuan because it would provide all advantages to them in terms of faster government service delivery, program implementation and greener economic activities.

Shariff Kabungsuan stands to ve ARMM’s sixth component province. The region is now covering Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi provinces and the city of Marawi. (ZS)

IMAGE OF THE DAY

Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Hermogenes Esperon answers question during an interview with local reporters at the activated military's Western Mindanao Command headquarters in Upper Calarian, Zamboanga City.

AFP chief deactivated Southcom, activated 2 new commands in Zambo and Davao

text & photos HADER GLANG

The Zamboanga-based Southern Command (Southcom), the biggest military unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, was formally deactivated Monday, paving the way for the Western Mindanao and Eastern Mindanao Commands.

AFP Chief of Staff General Hermogenese Esperon, who presided over the ceremony at Southcom headquarters, said it is their way of strengthening their command and control that would further translate into more focus responsive and effective mission accomplishments.

Major General Eugenio Cedo and Major General Rodolfo Obaniana were named to head the Zamboanga-based WesMinCom and the Davao-based EastMinCom as Major General Gabriel Habacon of the former Southcom retired from his post.

WisMinCom includes the provinces of Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. All forces of the 1st Infantry Division, the Marines assigned with the Western Mindanao naval forces, the 3rd Tactical Operations Wing, Task Force Comet and Task Force Ranao are under the new command.

With the activation of WisMinCom, the military is preparing for a full-scale operation against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, where ASG chieftain Khadaffy Janjalani and Jemaah Islamiyah militants Dulmatin and Umar Patek are reportedly seeking refuge in remote areas in the province.

EastMinCom also prepares a massive offensive against the NPA, which has been giving the government and the military a headache as the communist group attacked military and paramilitary detachments and seized government firearms.

“There will be more intensified operation. We are pressing ourselves to comply with the mandate of the President to accelerate the campaign against the terrorists,” Cedo told reporters.

WesMinCom will concentrate to bear on terrorism perpetrated by the Abu Sayyaf group and carry out sustain operations to defeat the small band of communist terrorist elements operating in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

“Very importantly the WesMinCom must be able to give primacy to the peace process that we are having with the MILF….and this is not a warning but you must not break the peace agreement that we have signed, including the MNLF for as long as you could,” Esperon said.

Southcom has been dealing with various threats, ranging from the high impact terroristic and kidnapping activities of Al Qaida-linked Abu Sayyaf Group and New People’s Army to the banditry of small sea pirates.

“The threats to security demanded that we focus and zero in and defeat targets that impact on national security. Thus, reorganizing into two unified commands is one of means in achieving the defeat of the enemies of the state,” Esperon added.

During the ceremony, Esperon hailed Habacon for more than a year leadership he has shown as Southcom commander, saying that he is confident the former Southcom chief will be remembered for his pro-people achievement.

“You will be remembered for your contributions in making Mindanao a safer place. In behalf of a grateful nation I salute your outstanding military service,” he said.

Habacon is one of the four generals implicated in an alleged conspiracy to rig the May 2004 elections in favor of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. (ZS)

Muslim leaders propose release of MNLF’s Misuari
text EDD K. USMAN

Muslim civil society leaders are calling for the release of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari from his five-year detention as part of a 10-point proposal to finally achieve peace in Mindanao.

After a day-long conference organized by the Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy (PCID) last Friday to assess the accomplishments of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA), Muslim leaders drafted a 10-point Plan for Achieving Peace in Mindanao.

Among those who participated in the conference were PCID lead convenor Amina Rasul, Maj. Tarahuddin Ampatuan of the National Security Council, Yusuf Ledesma of Balik-Islam. Other groups represented during the conference included Muslim and Christian speakers from government, the MNLF, non-government organizations and professionals.

In drafting the 10-point proposal for achieving peace, the conference agreed that benefits of the government’s peace treaty with the MNLF were not being felt on the ground. Conference participants also lamented the continuing violations of the Muslims’ human rights and called for the "internationalization" of the Bangsa Moro issue which at present is only taken up by the Organization of the Islamic Conference.

The 10-point proposal, which the PCID plans to present to Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr., includes the following recommendations:

1. The release of Misuari.

2. Government and MNLF must accept the defects of the 1996 FPA and the need to acknowledge major violations during President Estrada’s regime.

3. President Arroyo must work for amendment of Republic Act 9054, the law implementing the FPA.

4. Broad section of civil society must participate.

5. Civil society must be given room to engage.

6. Human rights body for Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao must be created.

7. Need for community empowerment.

8. Internationalization of the Bangsamoro issue.

9. Strengthening of democracy in ARMM.

10. Fostering of climate for reconciliation.

Hatimil Hassan, one of the speakers at the forum, said the MNLF asked the OIC to ensure that Misuari will head the group when the Tripartite Committee is convened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, later this year to review the peace agreement which turns 10 years old on September 2.

Hassan said the OIC welcomed the MNLF suggestion. The Tripartite Committee is composed of the Philippine government, the MNLF and the OIC, the parties to the 1996 FPA.

The PCID is a think tank composed of Muslim professionals advocating peace and Islam’s compatibility with Western democracy.

Subscribe Now!

With light, children can study at night, villages made bright
By Hader Glang

More than 5000 remote households in 185 barangays in the conflict-affected communities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) now have electricity through the use of solar energy and micro-hydro power systems, with plans to electrify some 6,000 more households in 189 villages by 2009. Full Story >>

Read Full Contents Of Its Latest Issue Click Here

7th Mindanao Seaweed Congress on September 7-8 in Zamboanga

THE Western Mindanao Seaweed Industry Development Foundation, Inc. (WMSIDFI) and the Seaweed Inter-Agency Task Force of Region IX will be conducting the 7th Mindanao Seaweed Congress on September 7-8, 2006 at Marcian Garden Hotel’s Convention Center, Zamboanga City.

The congress is an annual event where seaweed industry stakeholders, supporters of the industry, key officials of the government, and those interested to venture into the seaweed business are gathered.

With the theme, “The Future of the Seaweed Industry: Harnessing the Potentials of Other Seaweed Varieties and Their Applications”, the congress will serve as a venue for the stakeholders to update themselves with the latest developments affecting the industry, to discuss major concerns and problems, and to initiate and/or renew business transactions.

Aside from the participants coming from the island, delegates from abroad and the different regions of the Philippines are also expected to come.

International and national seaweed experts as well as experts from the government will also be attending to share their profound knowledge as resource speakers.

Generally, the congress will be tackling the potentials of Gracillaria, the international seaweed situation, the supplemental livelihood programs for farmers, and the HACCP standards.

Luis Villafuerte, chairman of the Committee on Fisheries and Atty. Malcolm I. Sarmiento, Jr., director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will grace the event.

This year’s congress will be bringing more opportunities to the seaweed industry, identifying and at the same time harnessing its existing potentials.

For further information, contact the congress secretariat at TF (062) 991-1049 or send email to seaweed@zambonet.ph. (PRESS RELEASE)

US Chargé d’Affaires to visit Zamboanga

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Paul W. Jones (2nd from right), Mayor Celso Lobregat (2nd from left) and other top American officials huddle during the turnover ceremony of USAID/GEM’s Computer Literacy and Internet Connection (CLIC) Program recently at Talisayan Elementary High School in Zamboanga City. (HADER GLANG)

United States Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Paul W. Jones will pay a one-day visit to Zamboanga City on Friday, August 25, for inspection of US-government sponsored projects and meeting with political and business leaders.

Jones will join with Mayor Celso Lobregat in a tour of the U.S. Government-sponsored HIV/AIDS Sentinel Surveillance Site at the Zamboanga City Social Hygiene Clinic, City Health Compound, Petit Barracks Street.

With American support, Zamboanga City has embarked on a robust HIV/AIDS education, outreach, and control program. This clinic is one of only 10 “sentinel sites” in the country that study HIV/AIDS statistics.

He will also grace the Closing Ceremony of the Tudlo Mindanao program, which is a weeklong English language-training program conducted by the US Peace Corps and USAID for Mindanao teachers.

In two sessions, 128 teachers receive free training on how to teach academic subjects in English, as well as learn information and communication technology. These teachers then will return to their schools and train other teachers in the techniques they learned.

Immediately following the ceremony, the American official together with Dr. Udtog Kawit, Al Haj, OIC Secretary of the ARMM’s Department of Education will hold a press conference at the Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga.

Chargé Jones is currently serving as the head of the US Mission to the Philippines in the Ambassador’s absence from Manila. He is also Peace Corps’ Country Director for the Philippines and the Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, where he helps direct American policy in the Philippines. (PRESS RELEASE)

Halal industry to create more jobs for Moros
text GANDHI KINJIYO

Hiring of Muslims in the halal industry would benefit them by addressing poverty and discrimination of Muslims in the workplace once giant food companies adapt the Muslims’ halal practices in food production.

Sheikh Salih D. Musa, an Islamic scholar from General Santos City and concurrently the secretary-general of Philippine Halal Fatwa Council and local director of the World Assembly of Muslim Youth, said he was hopeful that unemployment, a plague among Moro Muslim communities, would be reduced when the country gets its slice in supplying halal-certified products to the Middle Eastern countries.

The halal industry has a wide market considering the world Muslim population of 1.2 billion and halal food worldwide valued at more than $80 billion a year.

Halal means permissible or lawful, and its opposite, haraam, literally means unlawful or forbidden. Islamic doctrine mandates that Muslims are allowed to consume only halal foods.

Meat from swine, dog, blood of animals, animals with canine and snakes are considered haraam. The council would be the certifying body for halal foods , which require slaughtering of animals in accordance with Islamic law and hygienic practice.

Once halal certified, companies should be required to hire Muslim workers in the supply and production divisions of food companies to monitor that “farm to plate” no haram components would be mixed or added in the process, Musa said.

He said they have received reports indicating that ground swine liver was being added in canned tuna products to improve its taste.

While fattening the cattle for corned beef production, for instance, Muslims must ensure that feeds must be free from any haram ingredients, like dried ground innards of swine, he said.

“In the process of producing canned meat products like beef loaf, there must be no lard or ground liver from swine that shall be secretly added in the production,” Musa said.“Often the producer does not declare this ingredient in the labels.”

Musa said that canned goods should undergo laboratory test by Muslim chemists, to determine if there were haraam components or ingredients present.

A team of Ulama, or Islamic scholars, who will comprise the halal certification body will issue “halal seal” to products that would meet international halal standards.

Halal seal marked in label will inform consumers who are Muslims that the product is fit for their consumption.

A team of representatives from government agencies led by the Department of Trade and Industry, businessmen from the National Capital Region and Musa, who represented the ulama, went to Brunei for a weeklong “Halal Familiarization Visit” and attended a two-day seminar on International Halal Products Expo 2006.

Their weeklong stay exposed them to Brunei’s standard in halal certification and production through visitation in food companies in the country.

Musa said he was hopeful that the country would soon set up a “well-equipped laboratory” that will meet international halal certification standards for them to start operating.

The Philippine Halal Fatwa Council with the Muslim Business Forum will be preparing ‘Halal Production Guideline’ to educate owners of food companies who are ready to engage in Halal production.

Jamil Olermo of the MBF said that “the halal industry, once it will penetrate the world market with Mindanao as halal hub of the country, will surely boost Philippine export and drag us into economic bliss.” (MORO TIMES)

Role of third parties in Mindanao peace process
text ABHOUD SYED LINGGA

For the past three decades, every time the government (GRP) and the Bangsamoro liberation fronts talk peace, a third party is always involved. In the negotiations between the GRP and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) had been actively involved. In the on-going talks between the GRP and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Malaysia is the facilitator. Lately, the United States (US) expressed interest to be actively involved in finding a peaceful solution to the Mindanao conflict.

Third parties have been helpful in bringing the GRP and the Bangsamoro liberation fronts to the negotiating table and keeping them in the course of negotiations even if talks at times reached stalemate and bordered on resumption of hostilities. OIC’s interest in the peaceful settlement of the Mindanao conflict that involves the Muslim minority and predominantly Christian national government, according to Prof. Julkipli Wadi of U.P. Institute of Islamic Studies, was because part of its mandate as a pan-Islamic organization was to promote Islamic solidarity and peaceful settlement of disputes, “which will be to the best interest of the Muslims in South Philippines.”

The OIC experience taught a lesson that third parties should concern themselves not just with reaching agreements but also in the faithful compliance with the terms of the agreement.

Malaysia’s involvement in the Mindanao peace process started at the time when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sought the assistance of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad and Indonesian President Abdulrahman Wahid to convince the MILF to resume the stalled negotiations after the all-out war against the Moro liberation movement in the year 2000. The formal negotiations between the GRP and the MILF started in January 1997 after the conclusion of the peace talks between the GRP and the MNLF.

“Malaysia’s facilitation, aside from being host, usually involved the following functions: go-between conveying positions of the parties; providing a conducive atmosphere and facilities; presence in the talks as ‘referee’ and to witness commitments and understandings; help bridge differences by shuttling between the parties; administration of the talks; and record and keep minutes, to detail what had actually been agreed upon”, cites Atty. Soliman Santos.

Another important role of Malaysia is leading and providing the biggest contingents in the International Monitoring Team (IMT) which is tasked to monitor the ceasefire between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the MILF forces. The smaller contingents come from Brunei and Libya.

Upon the invitation of the Philippine Government and the MILF, the United States Government is getting involved in the peace process through the United States Institute of Peace (USIP). MILF Chairman Salamat Hashim wrote President Bush on January 20, 2003 looking forward to a U.S. initiative that will bring in a new formula to resolve the problem. The expectation from President Bush’ statement that the United States will provide diplomatic and financial support to the renewed peace process was more on official involvement rather than Track II initiatives.

In the meantime, Malaysia should continue its role of facilitating the GRP-MILF peace talks, as Secretary Albert noted, “Malaysia remains crucial to the search for peace in Southern Philippines,” and should continue its engagement up to the post-conflict phase. It is imperative that Malaysia should remind the GRP and MILF on the importance of a road map and benchmarks of implementation, as well as the need for monitoring mechanism.

The U.S. should keep up its policy not to supplant Malaysia in its role in the GRP- MILF peace talks. Better still the United States Government shall raise to the level of the State Department its involvement in the peace process. This will make Malaysia more comfortable in partnering with the U.S. given that peace initiatives will be on a state-state level.

Many European countries have rich experience in assisting states that suffered from internal conflicts rebuild their societies. Their involvement, either unilaterally or through the European Union, in the peace process will certainly add to chances of success in peace building efforts, particularly in the post-conflict reconstruction phase. And Japan, which has been invited to join the IMT’s civilian component, should give favorable consideration to the request because it can contribute so much to the success of the peace process.

Lingga is Executive Director of the Institute of Bangsamoro Studies.

The essay form excerpts of a paper presented during the International Conference on Peace Building in Asia Pacific: The Role of Third Parties, on July 1-3, 2006 in Khon Kaen, Thailand, organized by the Institute for Dispute Resolution, Khon Kaen University, and Southeast Asia Conflict Studies Network, with the support of The Japan Foundation.

For The Record
Bong Bue, former president of Zamboanga Press Club

In defense of the media

What’s the trend in City Hall nowadays? Find the answer elsewhere in this corner.

* * *

Headline: “Sulu, China City ink Sisterhood Agreement”
Sulu is getting connected to the world so fast under the leadership of Governor Ben Loong. Very recently the sisterhood agreement between Sulu and De Zhou City in the province of Shandong, China is one turning point for the much embattled Sulu province to have peace and development.

The coming in of the American Forces to help bring aid and development to Sulu is another major point of consideration. We’ve seen the beautiful presentation of Col. James Linder of the Joint Special Operations Task Force (Jostf) during our induction of the Rotary Club of Metro Zamboanga last month.

There have been significant changes now in Sulu. Infrastructures, social and economic activities have been in place as a way of convincing those in the mountains for years to come down and change their lifestyles for the betterment.

Gov. Loong with the participation of Col. Linder’s group and the rest are indeed making the difference. We love to see that of course! Zamboanga City will surely benefit if Sulu will once and for all be progressive.

* * *

Headline: “Jobless folks seek jobs at City Hall”
Why do people flock to City Hall as if it is an employment agency?
It is best for these jobless people to start looking for work elsewhere or maybe engage even in small businesses, which they can call theirs. Better wait because Shoppers Mall and two other malls will soon open in Zambo.

* * *

And speaking of City Hall. The trend around a City Hall nowadays is “it isn’t who you know but who you yes.”

* * *

Headline: “ Media asked to present beautiful side of ZC”
How about list down first the beautiful things of Zamboanga City and then ask the media to present them.

This call of the mayor appears to be a broken record. Our colleagues in media would just present Zamboanga’s beautiful sides if there are any. As a newsman myself for almost two decades now I don’t remember that there has been any suppression of news or things around.

As a matter of fact, we have been more compassionate in presenting beautiful things of Zamboanga City. Including birthdays of politicians are even published and presented to the public.

Maybe there are very few beautiful things to present that’s why we could hardly notice them. I don’t think Zamboanga City media men would want to see La Bella destroyed. I believe that as Zamboanguenos radio men, newspaper and TV personalities, including columnists, love Zamboanga City more than anyone else.

These are the people who move around and give comments and criticisms if they see things going wrongly so that those concerned would do something about them.

However, if the ones making the call meant to suppress the bloody incidents happening around as they definitely do not speak of Zamboanga City beautifully then it’s gonna be a different story.

The recent spate of killings in Putik, Pasonanca, Talon-Talon and anywhere else are incidents which we in media could not just ignore or suppress them from news and publication. Media reported them as they happened. It’s just too bad that the much publicized GUN BAN campaign isn’t working as desired. Well, this GUN BAN issue is another thing we want to talk about in this little corner soon.

All these ugly incidents happening around are not the faults of media. The media simply do their work and report them to the general public. Unlike in Malaysia, mediamen there told us (when we visited there in 1997), that they have to seek approval from a sort of information minister before publishing them in newspapers.So if the mayor wants media to present beautiful things --- then make them!

* * *

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “Nothing speaks more clearly of God’s love than the cross of Christ.”

IMAGE OF THE DAY

Male long-tailed monkey gets a banana from visitor in a spiritual site in Tawi-Tawi, where natives believe is protected by aggressive white monkeys who will attack, particularly if you don’t offer food. (text & photos HADER GLANG)

Moros have reason to celebrate as Muftis launch ARMM Halal certification standards
text & photos HADER GLANG

Moro folks perform the Zabiha – hand slaughtered in accordance with Islamic Law. The butcher recites “Bismillah. Allahu Akbar" (In the name of Allah. God is Great) over a cow before its jugular veins are quickly severed. This ritualistic slaughter is required in order for the meat to be considered Halal.

Observant Muslims in the country have reason to celebrate as the influential and respected Muftis from the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi finally launched the Halal certification standards.

Muslim scholars who interpret the Shari’ah law approved the “Technical Guidelines and Manual of Operation of the Autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao Halal Accreditation and Certification Board” a week ago and will start operations next month.

Ustadz Mohammad Inju, chairman of the Halal Certification Board, said the activation of the Halal certifying body would protect Muslims from food fraudulently labeled “halal,” or permissible under Muslim dietary laws.

This also provides guidance on slaughtering, preparing, processing, handling, packaging, distribution and serving of Halal food, according to Inju.

“Finally, we have reason to celebrate,” ARMM Trade and Industry Secretary Ishak Mastura said, as he urged the poultry exporters to employ the services of Halal certification board to access the multi-billion dollar international halal industry.

With the activation of Halal certification standards, Mastura said food companies will be able to produce Halal food and non-food products locally “thus encouraging owners of grocery stores and supermarkets to specialize in Islamic foods.”

Halal certification is the system of determining what is permissible for consumption of Muslims under Shari’ah law. Its seal marked on labels of food and non-food products will inform Muslim consumers that the product is free from pork, lard from swine and alcohol.

By food safety standards, halal is considered a quality control system by itself that puts emphasis on critical control points involving hygienic and disease-free preparation of foods from farm to plate.

For meat or poultry to be considered halal, it must comply with exacting Islamic standards.The live animals must have been fed natural feed such as grasses, cereals or corn free of hormones, blood, meat or enzymes obtained from any animal.

The Philippine government wants ARMM in its medium term development plan as center for the Halal industry. The region's development is expected to benefit from the international Halal food industry with estimated value of $580 billion per year. (ZS)

Metro Rotarians Adopt Salukot Day Care Center

The Rotary Club of Metro Zamboanga has adopted the Salukot Day Care Center in Pasonanca as its pilot area for implementation of its community service program.The local Rotarians headed by its president Marel Catacutan visited the Salukot Day Care Center last Saturday and initially installed playground facilities and gave reading materials for the over 20 wards. The adoption of the Salukot Day Care Center is part of the local Rotary Club’s commitment to Rotary International service opportunity program on literacy and numeracy. Salukot Day Care Center headed by Ms Annie Pangilinan caters to indigent children from the Salukot community in Pasonanca. Other Metro Rotarians present during last Saturday’s affair were IPP Beng Climaco, past presidents Engr. Tony Turija, Atty. Nar Navarro, Engr. Eddie Catis, Ms Bengel Moreno, Atty. Gian Paolo Enriquez, Atty. Tuks Sotto, Mr. Chat Dalingay, Mr. Roel Batausa and Mr. Bong Bue. Also joining the group were representatives of Mr. Donut who also committed to assist in the said community service project. (PHOTO RELEASE)

IMAGE OF THE DAY

Visiting US Senator Daniel Inouye poses with a group of women neighborhood leaders from communities in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao that were recipients of the rural electrification program. (PHOTO RELEASE)

MILF urges Japan to boost development aid for Mindanao's poor

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is pushing Japan to boost aid to conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, saying it will hasten peace and development in the impoverished region, according to a report from Japanese newspaper.

The Japan Times quoted Al-Haj Murad Ibrahim, MILF chairman, as saying "we believe that Japan could play a very important role in bringing peace, especially to the conflict-affected in Mindanao." Mindanao, the second largest region and the birthplace of Islam in the Philippines, is home to about 10 million Muslims.

The Japan Times also quoted Murad as saying: "We requested Japan to play a leading role in the rehabilitation development and the need to focus on projects that will directly benefit the region's poor, including ways to boost the output of rice and other produce."

As noted in the report, Japan is playing peacemaker on the island scarred by decades of war that have stunted the growth of the mineral-rich islands. It is the first non-Islamic country to join the international monitoring team, a 60-member group keeping track of a 2003 ceasefire agreement.

Last July 23, Foreign Minister Taro Aso informed President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in Manila Japan's desire to contribute more actively to the peace process by assisting those living in conflict-affected areas to find a lasting peace.

The task force will formulate a development plan for Mindanao and coordinate to make sure the projects are implemented. Projects will focus on building schools, vocational training centers, water supply systems and health-care centers in the conflict-affected areas of central Mindanao.

Also in late July, Yoshinori Takori, a spokesman for the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo, said in Kuala Lumpur that Japan and Malaysia, the broker of the peace talks, have agreed to cooperate very closely in joint activities in Mindanao.

According to Takori, "Japan will take care of development and economic and social issues, and I think we can also cooperate closely with Malaysia, which is taking care of security."

Japan seeks to implement 10 projects in central Mindanao within a year through its grant assistance for grassroots human security projects.

Launched in 1989, Japan's aid program has carried out 367 projects throughout the Philippines, about a third of them in Mindanao.

Murad voiced hope that countries from the European Union join ongoing international efforts to rehabilitate Mindanao. Canada, New Zealand and Australia are among those that pledged aid while a peace accord is being worked out.

"I think we need more support in the aspect of technology. Although we need infrastructure projects, the priority should focus on improving the livelihood of the people," he said.

"We need to build peace on the ground. That way our people will feel that even before the signing (of a peace pact) there is already something concrete happening which is beneficial to them," the MILF chairman said.

He welcomed Japan's decision to send a "development expert" to the island, saying it signals Japan's willingness to play a more active role in the peace process. There are about 105 towns and about 4,000 villages in central Mindanao affected by the conflict that involves the MILF, which has a long-term aim of creating a separate Islamic state in the southern Philippines.

More than 120,000 people have been killed and more than 200,000 displaced in the war that has been raging since the 1970s. UNICEF puts the number of displaced much higher, saying that from 2000 to 2003 alone, 300,000 children were displaced. (ZS)

EHEM!

A CAMPAIGN FOR PEACE IN LEBANON & ISRAEL

Dear friends,

Right now a tragedy is unfolding in the Middle East. Thousands of innocent civilians have been killed or wounded in the bombings in Lebanon, Palestine and Israel and the death toll is rising every day. If the US, Syria or Iran get involved, there is a chance of a catastrophic larger war. UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has called for an immediate ceasefire and the deployment of international troops to the Israel-Lebanon border, and been strongly supported by almost every world leader. This is the best proposal yet to stop the violence, but the US, the UK, and Israel have refused to accept it. I have just signed a petition calling on US President Bush, UK Prime Minister Blair, and Israeli Prime Minister Olmert to support Kofi Annan's proposal.

If millions of people join this call, and we advertise our views in newspapers in the US, UK, and Israel, we can help pressure these leaders to stop the fighting. Go to the link below and sign up now! http://www.ceasefirecampaign.org

With hope,

alxen

Corruption in the Philippines is very serious. Be sensitive! Be bothered! Be involved! Ehem!

US-funded AMORE electrification projects energize 5,000 homes in ARMM

text & photos HADER GLANG

National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Zamzamin Ampatuan (2nd from right) and Alliance for Mindanao Off-grid Renewable Energy Chief Tetchie Capellan (center) sign a memorandum of agreement for the construction of potable water projects in AMORE electrified barangays in Mindanao and witness by US Senator Daniel Inouye (right), United States Assistance for International Development Mission Director Jon Lindborg and a top official from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Thousands of remote households in the conflict-affected communities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) have now electricity through the solar energy and micro-hydro power systems.

Alliance for Mindanao Off-grid Renewable Energy (AMORE) Chief Theresa Capellan announced the electrification of more than 5,000 homes in 185 barangays in the provinces of Basilan, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The USAID spent $20 million and $4 million were added by Mirant Philippines for the renewable energy systems, which AMORE installed in 74 barangays in Tawi-Tawi with 2,220 household-beneficiaries; 25 in Sulu with 750 household-beneficiaries; 29 in Basilan benefiting 870 households; and 65 barangays in Maguindanao benefiting 1,670 households.

“We feel privileged to be part of your lives, and we remain committed to electrify some 6,000 more households in 189 additional villages in Mindanao, until September 2009,” Capellan told beneficiaries in a ceremony in Zamboanga City last Aug. 12 presided over by US Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii.

The Philippine Department of Energy reported that more than half of all un-electrified villages in the country are in Mindanao. Of these, about 70 percent are located in the
ARMM, where men and women have grown old dreaming that their villages would one day be electrified.

“Now, the people are braved to go out at night…eat in the bright…gone are the days when children often cough violently from the fumes of the kerosene lamps they used to study at night,” said Capellan.

More electrification projects to come. Senator Inouye and Mirant Philippines Foundation announced that AMORE is set to electrify an additional 4,500 households in the ARMM with solar energy using joint funding from USAID and Mirant.

Inouye said the US government and its people are committed to provide assistance to the Philippines, especially in Mindanao in which all of the aid that the Americans provide to the Philippines, 60 percent is being spent in Mindanao.

“This project is what we wanted for the people of the world…we wanted to have light so children can study well…to have lights so our men and women can see can live a good life…this is what this project is all about…is a project of hope…we will have more miracles like this in the years to come.”

National Anti Poverty Commission (NAPC) Secretary Zamzamin Ampatuan said the electrification projects serve indirectly the practice of Islam and would definitely result to higher things in life of all Muslims in the areas.

“The assistance the US is delivering to Mindanao definitely has benefited our people in many ways fulfilling not only material needs but their need for spiritual fulfillment as well,” Ampatuan said as he urged the Muslims in Mindanao to include in their prayers to make the US victories in its war against terrorism and the campaign for global peace.

He signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with AMORE for the allocation of P40 million to be used in the construction of solar-powered drinking water pumping systems in a number of AMORE electrified villages, in support of President Arroyo’s thrust to provide both electricity and water to all villages in the country by 2008.

Capellan said, “These renewable energy systems and solar power potable water systems will contribute to alleviating poverty especially in the ARMM, the poorest region in our country.”

She said it is up now to the Barangay Renewable Energy and Community Development Associations and Local Government Units to work together to sustain and expand the systems so that the government could move closer to its goal of achieving 90 percent household electrification by 2017.

Muslim leaders applaud AMORE, which composed of the USAID, MIRANT Philippines and Winrock International, for continuously providing the people in the remote barangays with one of the basic necessity such as electricity.

ARMM Governor Zaldy Ampatuan said: “We are appreciative that this electrification project of AMORE, along with many beneficial projects supported by USAID, are geared towards the enhancement of the living conditions of our people, especially in the conflict-affected areas.”

He also called for the strengthening of the spirit of cooperativism among its stakeholders, the BRECDA, so they can continue to manage and maintain properly these lighting projects.

“I assure everyone that the implementation of this project shall always be in accordance to my policy of good governance, transparency and accountability, all of which are the pillars of my administration,” the ARMM governor said.

Sulu Governor Benjamin Loong said he joined the AMORE’s BRECDA in thanking the American people and Mirant who have assisted his administration in jumpstarting peace and development in their communities.

“The lives of the people of Sulu have been lighted up and given hope through this most valued partnership. We celebrate a partnership that has helped 227 poor communities all over Mindanao who thought that their communities would never see light through the darkness,” Loong added.

For his part, Tawi-Tawi Governor Sadikul Sahali thanked the American people for the renewable energy systems, which AMORE installed in at least 70 barangays in his province benefiting thousands of poor people.

“I believe this is not the end of the AMORE projects…there will be more to come so that the remote island municipalities in the province by year 2007 will be finally lighted,” Sahali said.

AMORE, which was launched four years ago, is considered a highly successful program for rural electrification because of its intensive social preparation, strong community organizing, capacity building initiatives for local associations, and creative financing schemes.

As of July 2006, some 6,850 households, 143 community centers and 319 streets in 227 barangays in Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Sulu, Maguindanao, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga City, Sultan Kudarat, and Davao electrified with renewable energy (RE) systems (224 barangays with photovoltaic systems and three with microhydro power). (ZS)

US senator to visit Zamboanga to preside over turn-over of rural electrification projects in ARMM

The third most senior member of the US Senate will visit Zamboanga City on August 12, Saturday, to turn over development assistance from the American people and local private-sector contributors that are helping bring electricity to rural communities in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Senator Daniel K. Inouye who is known for his distinguished record as a legislative leader and as a World War II combat veteran who earned the nation's (US) highest award for military valor (the medal of Honor), will preside a ceremony at the Garden Orchid Hotel.

The rural electrification projects benefit some 5,000 remote households in 185 communities in the ARMM, and were made possible by the Alliance for Mindanao Off-grid Renewable Energy (AMORE) Program of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Energy, Mirant Philippines Foundation, the ARMM government, and Winrock International.

Media interested in covering the event are requested to confirm their participation with Ms. Beng Añago, AMORE Information, Education and Communications Manager (Tel. (632) 687-9091/2 loc. 118, Fax: (632) 631-8215, mobile: (0917) 917-3773 email: eanago@amore.org.ph (PRESS RELEASE)

For The Record
Bong Bue, former president of Zamboanga Press Club

Zambo airport deserves facelift

Is the AFP accepting gays in the Army? Find the answer elsewhere in this corner.
* * *

Headline: “Msgr Cris: Zambo worth risking, dying for.”

I remember a similar line was made in the past by the late Senator Ninoy Aquino and it really came to pass. I hope and pray that any curse in that line would be cut. It’s much better to have a living servant than a dead one.

* * *

Headline: “New US church leader says homosexuality is no sin.”

Well, that’s according to Episcopal Church Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schori of the Diocese of Nevada. “Homosexuals were created by God to love people of the same gender,” the Bishop continued.

My Gosh! The Bishop must have a new version of the Book of Genesis. If we are to believe him, so it’s not only Adam and Eve who were created… there must be another … a Shukla? Nowadays, let’s be careful as there are a lot of false teachings. Ask God for a better discernment of things.

The Bible speaks of many prohibitions about homosexuality one of them can be found in Leviticus 18:22, which reads “No man is to have sexual relations with another man; God hates that.”

* * *

And speaking of homosexuals: There is this joke that the AFP is now accepting gays in the Army. A gay went to apply. The recruiting officer asked him a few questions. “Can you kill a man?” he asked. The gay said: “Yes, but it will take weeks and weeks."

* * *

Headline: “PNP plane’s tire blows up: 3 safe”

Upon reading the headline I was a bit confused as to how could airplanes have flat tires in the air. But the story cleared the confusion that the flat-tire occurred at the airport’s runway in Zamboanga City similar to that one caused on a commercial airline last summer.

For The Record grew up in the nearby Barangay of Canelar and our place is just a stone-throw distance from the runway of the airport. When we were kids we used to play nearby the airport’s asphalted runway. There was no concrete wall yet at that time. I remember the fences were made of barbwires and other indigenous materials.

We are telling you this because we confirm that we have such an antiquated airport’s runway that has only been asphalted over and over again for decades now. We built the airport’s new terminal building but we did not include the other parts of the air facility. And come to think about it: the airport is our gateway for investors, visitors and what have you.

I was told that even the American aircraft could hardly maneuver in our so limited airport’s spaces. Maybe because that airport was designed only for the BAC 111 planes of the Philippine Airlines before or the Nomad aircraft of the PNP, Navy and Air Force.

A couple of years ago a US Chinook Helicopter blew up the roof of a PAF outpost built against the EAAB wall because there was limited space for big aircraft to maneuver. Again, maybe our airport is designed only not anything bigger than the Huey helicopters.

As to the idea of transferring the airport to Mercedes --- well, that remains to be just a dream and we can continue on dreaming on that for as long as we want as we don’t see any concrete move to have it realized. Some of those who bought properties in Mercedes ( to anticipate the airport’s transfer there) may have over anticipated it.

Anyway, the existing Zamboanga City International Airport can still serve La Bella and so let’s contend with what we have for the moment. But surely it needs a facelift particularly the runway and its other facilities.

Zamboanguenos should be glad that Congressman Erbie Fabian personally met President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo over this matter. And thank God a positive response came out from that meeting of Fabian and PGMA. On the other hand, the City Government of Zamboanga headed by Mayor Celso Lobregat can complement with whatever resources or moves it can make.

If our airport’s facelifting is realized, then it would not only be Air Transportation Office Manager Celso Bayabos who will be happy --- the entire Zamboanga City people will have to rejoice.

* * *

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “Good fathers not only tell us how to live --- they show us.”

ZamboEcozone & Freeport Authority’s motorcycles top Visayas, M’danao markets

The assembly plant of Demark Motor Philippines Inc. inside the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone & Freeport Authority.

DEMAK MOTOR MANUFACTURING PHILIPPINES INC., a motorcycle assembler company at the Zamboanga Freeport and Economic Zone Authority in San Ramon, this city, has significantly expanded its marketing sites and contacts in less than two years.

DEMAK motorcycles, manufactured in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia and assembled in Zamboanga City, reportedly topped among other brands of motorcycles distributed and sold by Emcor Marketing.

Lin Bin, general manager of Demak assembly plant at the Zamboanga Freeport, said Demak motorcycles are now being distributed by 177 Emcor outlets throughout Mindanao and Visayas.

“As of July Demak motorcycles rank highest number of units sold by Emcor,” Bin said.

The first motorcycle assembly plant in Mindanao was established at the Zamboanga Freeport in December 2005.

Bin said Demak is sending out around 400 units of motorcycles a month to the different outlets in Visayas and Mindanao.

Demak came to Zamboanga City after the Sandakan Business Expo of BIMP-EAGA (Bruneir-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asian Growth Area) in May 2003 where Zamboanga Freeport chairman Georgina Yu and her marketing chief Ma. Socorro Cipriano attended and subsequently invited Demak to Ecozone.

Demak’s product line includes Trendy Scooters (125ccTwister and 150cc Fighter), Multi-Purpose Tricycles, Sporty Mopeds (Matrix and Evo). (MENTORING CLUB)

6 ARMM cabinet members confirmed

SIX members of the cabinet of Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao were confirmed Wednesday by the powerful Commission on Appointments of the Regional Assembly in many observers say an unprecedented mass confirmation in the history of the RA.

In a marathon session presided by RA Speaker Paisalin Tago, the CA confirmed without delay and objection the nomination of Secretary Camid Gandambra of the Department of Transportation and Communication, Secretary Kabuntalan Emblawa of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Secretary Ishak Mastura of the Department of Trade and Industry, Secretary Macacuna Pangandaman of the Department of Tourism, Secretary Ruby Sahali of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Secretary Sajid Druz Ali of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

"We thank the honorable members of the Commission for this confirmation. I think this is unprecedented in the history of the Regional Assembly because in two weeks' time that they scrutinize and discuss our nominations, they were able to confirm en mass six members the regional cabinet," DTI Secretary Mastura told the Bureau of Public Information-ARMM.

"At last we are now confirmed and we can function without some legal impediments. We are happy and we thank the honorable members of the Commission for their trust and confidence in us and in our capability to lead our respective department," said Agriculture Secretary Ali.

For her part, Secretary Sahali said "Now that we are confirmed the more we need to work hard and show our worth."

The DSWD is one of the busiest departments of the ARMM in terms of project implementation. Aside from its regular programs, the DSWD­ARMM is also implementing the Community Development Assistance (CDA) component of the ARMM Social Fund Project.

During the session, two members of the Commission credited Regional Governor Ampatuan for the easy and early confirmation of the six members of his cabinet.

Assemblyman Bonggarsa Tomawis of the First District of Maguindanao stressed that easy passage of nomination of the six cabinet members is due to the good relationship of Regional Governor Ampatuan with the members of the RA.

"The cabinet members deserved to be confirmed because of their competence and dedication to work, besides, Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Ampatuan has a very good relationship with the members of the Regional Assembly," he said.

Assemblywoman Hadja Rajam Akbar from Basilan also said the confirmation of the six cabinet members clearly shows the good relationship between the executive and the legislative departments of the ARMM.

"Never in the past that the executive department under the leadership of Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan and the Regional Assembly has this kind of relationship," Akbar said.

With the confirmation of the six secretaries, only the secretaries of the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agrarian Reform and Department of Labor and Employment are not yet confirmed.

Secretaries of the Department of Health, Department of Public Work and Highways and Department of Education will not pass through confirmation because they were only appointed on an acting capacity. (BPI-ARMM)

Industry leaders push for ‘Halal’ lanes in key stores and supermarkets in Zamboanga
text HADER GLANG

The establishment of Halal lanes or corners is being pushed in Zamboanga City as the demand for Halal certified products in the domestic market grows fast.

DTI-9 Regional Director Nazrullah Manzur said operators and owners of major grocery store and supermarkets in the city are keen to set up Halal lanes.

“But they asked that they be given time to set up the lanes as the work entails lots of logistical support,” Manzur said.

The DTI official said the opening up of special lanes exclusively for Halal products is a very good marketing strategy for storeowners, as it will certainly attract patrons, particularly the Muslims.

If this pushes through, Halal lanes or corners shall have been installed in major grocery stores and supermarkets in the city by October this year, in time for the celebration of the National Consumers’ Month.

“Roughly 30% of the total population of the city is Muslims – a captive market for Halal food and non-food products. This does not include those that regularly come to the city from the neighboring provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi,” Manzur pointed out.

The concept of opening Halal lanes, aside from offering new business opportunities, is in line with the DTI’s mandate under the Consumer Act of the Philippines to safeguard consumers against misrepresentation, mislabeling and the fraudulent use of the Halal logo in products sold in the market.

The annual value for Halal food worldwide is estimated at US580 billion and is growing fast. Aside from food, there is also a huge market for non-food Halal products that include cosmetics, perfume, toiletries, body care pharmaceuticals, herbal and healthcare products.

DTI-9 Assistant Regional Director Sitti Amina Jain said that there are also lots of business opportunities for fashion accessories and apparel, food processing plants and abattoirs, in service industries and in many other industries.

“This will be the first in the Philippines, though not necessarily the first in the world as there are already operational Halal lanes in Thailand, Australia and in the State of New Jersey, USA,” Zain added.

Meanwhile, a private sector-led Halal certification Board (HCB) is expected to be activated by this month, to fast track development of the halal industry in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The Local Government Support Program in the ARMM (LGSPA) said the HCB would be led by the ARMM Business Council and the Dar'ul Ifta, a council of senior religious leaders serving as final arbiter on matters relating to Islam.

The HCB is tasked to verify that what is declared halal is in accordance with Islamic rules of consuming only permissible food and non-food products as prescribed by the Holy Qur'an.

The Mindanao Business Council announced last month that around 15 tons of poultry products from Maguindanao are targeted as pilot shipment for halal export before the year ends. It will be shipped to the Middle East where there is a multi-billion poultry market.

The creation of the Halal board is overdue and fundamental in Halal certification in the ARMM, where majority of the country's Muslims live, the LGSPA quoted ARMM's trade and industry secretary, Ishak Mastura.

The LGSPA teamed up with the ARMM's DTI in the formation of the HCB in developing the board's guidelines and manual of operations.

The crafting of the Halal guidelines and manual will involve consultations with the Dar'ul Ifta and provincial Mufti in the ARMM to ensure consensus that these are all in accord with Islamic injunctions.

On May 18 in Cotabato City, ten Muftis from the ARMM provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur signed a commitment to support the creation and operation of the board after studying the Qur’anic imperatives of halal certification and its organizational framework. (ZS)

WMSU College of Law marks 25th Jubilee Year

House deputy speaker for Mindanao Abdulgani "Gerry" Salapuddin is flanked by Law Students Association (LSA) incoming president Bong Bue (left) and Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) College of Law Dean Eduardo Sanson.

The Western Mindanao State University’s College of Law had a grand celebration last Saturday night as it commemorated its 25th year anniversary at the Celebrity Hall of Grand Astoria Hotel.

The grand celebration was capped with the commemoration of WMSU’s Centennial Year, 25th anniversary of the College of Law, testimonial dinner for the 11 new WMSU lawyers, induction of officers of the Law Students Association and homecoming of WMSU lawyers.

The new WMSU lawyers who passed the Bar Examinations given in 2005 by the Supreme Court. A testimonial dinner were rendered for Atty. Nicolas L. Apolinario, Jr.,Atty. Frederick Ian S. Capin, Atty. Faith Suzette N. Reyes-Kong, Atty. Husnaira C. Ilimin ,Atty. David Oliver C. Kong, Atty. Florencio Jr. M. Liong, Atty. John Paul S. Pagteilan, Atty. Sharon May P. Sales, Atty. Basset M. Sarip, Atty. Jason C. Teng and Atty. Jayne Marie C. Teng.

House of Representatives Deputy Speaker for Mindanao Abdulgani "Gerry" Salapuddin was the guest speaker and inducting officer of the new set of LSA officers. Inducted were president- Jose Maria Bue, vice president-Anatalio D. Teves, secretary- Honoriza Krystle Sales- Lavista, treasurer- Moh. Ershad Tawasil, auditor- Eduardo Danda, PIO- Elvin Pedrigosa, project manager- Benzar Timbang, Board of Directors- Rommel S. Reyes (IPP), Nurjay M. Sahali, Lorraine P. Ututalum , Daniel Alaban, Alrashdy S. Langa, Leonardo J. Carpizo, Anne Aubrey R. De Guzman-Bugtong and Gleen A. Revilla.

Lawyer Eduardo Sanson, WMSU College of Law dean, officiated the mass induction of different class officers while Regional Trial Court Judge Peter Eisma sworn into office the chairmen of the different LSA committees.

WMSU has produced over 100 lawyers and a number of them came by for the initial homecoming.

Meanwhile, WMSU College of Law together with the LSA are planning for another homecoming of WMSU lawyers and meeting with WMSU president Dr. Eldigario Gonzales anytime this year. (PRESS RELEASE)

MILF rebels call for Mideast ceasefire
text HADER GLANG

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has called for the immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon, which has been under Israeli attack for four weeks.

“This bloodbath must stop immediately and without precondition and Israel must withdraw to the position where it was at the start of the war on July 12,” said Muhammad Ameen, head of MILF’s Central Committee secretariat.

Israel launched a devastating offensive against Lebanon early last month following the capture of two Israeli soldiers by the Shiite Lebanese militia, Hezbollah.

Ameen also called on the United States and Britain to exert all efforts to pressure Israel to agree on the call for a ceasefire, saying that only the US could pressure Israel to agree to declaration of an immediate ceasefire.

“The resolution was moved by the increasing deaths of civilians especially children and women and the widespread destructions caused by the indiscriminate air strikes, bombardments, and rocket attacks to government and private properties and other infrastructures particularly in Lebanon, where the Israelis have already used all weapons in their arsenal to crash the Hezbollah. Only atomic weapons are not yet used in present conflict,” according to Ameen.

The Lebanese government reports said at least 880 civilians have been killed so far in addition to 27 police or government troops. Four UN observers and a peacekeeper have also been killed. Another reports said about 3,000 wounded in Lebanon, and 1,400 wounded in Israel. (ZS)

U.S.-Philippine Partnership Gives Free Medical Care to Honorable Soldiers of World War II in Sulu

Veterans of World War II in Sulu were honored in late July during a day-long program, co-sponsored by the U.S. Military, that offered free medical and dental care for Filipino veterans living in the area. The “Medical Civic Action Program,” held at Camp Austerias in Sulu, treated approximately 40 veterans, 20 widows of veterans, and 284 family members. The event was co-sponsored by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Jolo City government, and the U.S. Government under the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines. Additional care providers included the National Red Cross Sulu Chapter, the Philippine Sulu Provincial Population Office, the Municipality of Jolo, the First Division Medical Team of the AFP, the Provincial National Police, the AFP’s 104th Brigade, and the Sulu Dental Association. The Filipino veterans and their family members received general checkups, dental care, new eyeglasses, and prescription medicine. Pictured above, a nurse volunteer takes the blood pressure of a World War II veteran attending the free day-long event. (PHOTO RELEASE)

Moro group denounces arrest of Muslim clerics

A MORO human rights group condemned the continuous abduction of Muslim religious leaders in Mindanao and tagging them as terrorists.

In a statement, Kawagib spokesperson Sittie Rajabia Sundang said the latest victim is Ustadz Kusain Abedin, 31, an active member of the United Youth for Peace and Development -- a non-government organization.

Abedin was allegedly abducted by the elements of Task Group Tugis of the Philippine Army under 6th Infantry Division and the Military Intelligence Group last August 3 at around 6:45 p.m., a few minutes after he arrived at the Weena Bus Terminal along Don Rufino Alonzo Street, Cotabato City.

“More or less 10 soldiers immediately went inside the bus and held my hands. They did not even show me the warrant,” Kawagib quoted Abedin as saying.

Sundang said Colonel Salvador Calanoy, commanding officer of Task Force Tugis, showed to them the photocopy of the arrest warrant but Abedin's name wasn't on the list.

Kawagib and the counsel of Abedin questioned the warrant of arrest presented to them, forcing Calanoy to turn Abedin to the custody of his counsel last Friday.

The group blamed the Arroyo administration for legalizing "warrantless arrests and searches, indiscriminate firings in Moro communities."

"The bombings of the Bangsamoro communities on allegations of being haven of domestic and international terrorists were conducted at whim, highly degrading the rights and welfare of the innocent civilians," the group said. (PRESS RELEASE)