Kapihan de Zamboanga
By Hader Glang

On branding Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City

Let me start my new column by thanking first fellow journalists and other media practitioners who honored our invitation to the launching of "Kapihan de Zamboanga" last Thursday afternoon, September 27, 2007, at A Taste of Asia (Atoa) Bistro, Veterans Ave., this city.

Thank you to 1st District councilor Jimmy Cabato, who did not hesitate or think twice when we invited him as the first and resource speaker for the media forum. And of course to my colleagues in the Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ), who tasked me to chair the project. Muchas gracias!

Thank you also to Zamboanga Today, the most widely read newspaper in Western Mindanao, the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN), RPN television and Net25/Eagle Broadcasting Corporation for the coverage of the forum. Indeed!! The Kapihan would not have been possible without the media.

Without much ado, here are excerpts from questions and answers during the media forum on the issue branding Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City.

Question 1 from Gil Climaco, radio commentator: "Is it proper, fit, appropriate to call Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City as what they called it as its new branded name? We want to get your opinion straight forward. What's your comment on this Honorable Cabato?

Answer: "De mio opinion simply lang. To the common men, once we mention Latin City, we refer to a place, its people, its culture, its history and heritage of the place. It is never simply associated to language because I understand earlier from the proponents of the Asia's Latin City moniker, they are saying Latin City because the Zamboangueños are speaking chavacano. This means, we are Latin City because Spanish is the relative of Latin. To the ordinary people, meanwhile, once we mention Latin City, two things come to their mind: first, the Latin American cities like Columbia, where we know for a fact it is known for drugs; second, once we mention Latin City, we recall the Roman Empire wherein during that time the people fight against people, persons against persons. Sometimes people against animals. So if these things are inculcated into the minds of the ordinary folks, who Zamboangueño would like to be a member of Latin City, where we would become gladiators and drug place city? That's why I said right now unless and till' there is justification coming from them that will make me change my mind, then that's the time I would say 'yes' (accept Latin City). I even believe even the members of IPZ, if there is valid and justified reason, they will erase this objection. It's only a matter of listening to us and listening to them and then come up with a conclusion.

Question 2 from Bernie Conception, government radio station anchorman: "This is connected to the first question. Given all the arguments of IPZ, questioning the branding of Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City. What move you can do in the City Council to address this Latin City moniker controversy?

Answer: "Here's how. The City Council asked IPZ to make a formal letter interposing objection on moniker (Asia's Latin City). Once the letter is there I will move for...to subject the opposition, its objection to a review of Ordinance 760 and then call for extensive public hearing and then after everything is ventilated come up with the conclusion. That's the only way to resolve and erase all these objections.

Question 3 follow up question from Mr. Concepcion: "Do you believe that the cause of this objection (on this tagging of Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City) was due to lack of public consultations by the present administration?

Answer: "We can't yet say that, although we heard Honorable Rey Candido, who talked earlier about his own version of what is Latin City, and then Councilor Jerky valesco, who also explained that there had been supposed public hearings in the past with barangay officials, kagawads and even with the Zamboanga Press Club. That's according to them, but then again Nung Ajihil, secretary general of IPZ told the City Council recently that he was not convinced on the justification by the two councilors. That's why I asked the City Council that there should be a two-way communication. We have to hear both sides. Let's hear those who are in favor and those who are against and then make a proper judgement at the proper time.

Question 4 from Tony Rimando, national columnist: "Going back to this Latin City. I understand Councilor Cabato that the pronouncement of the city mayor came out first before the City Council passed a resolution naming Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City. Some groups say this was not the proper way, which should have been the City Council coming first with the appropriate resolution before the mayor pronouncing it (Asia's Latin City). We support your move to initiate a real public hearing. Reports said there were public hearings made about this issue. I think it is not true because we have not heard from the media outfits about the supposed public hearings. There was no announcement so far. And this issue should be settled once and for all because our school children are confused. We would like therefore to urge you to initiate in the City Council for an immediate public hearing to settle this issue once and for all and I suggest that every sectors of society should be invited, especially school officials, teachers, parents, schoold children in all the levels so that they can ventilate their points and I'm very sure that the honorable mayor will later on realize that the issue should really be settled through a real, actual public hearing."

Answer: Yes...there were three points raised by Dr. Rimando. First, it seems he was trying to say that the mayor was sort of putting the cart ahead the horse. As a member of the City Council now I give the benefit of the doubt. So let's wait until the time comes. Second, he mentioned about public hearing. I agree with him that there should be extensive public hearing because when this resolution was enacted I was not a member of the City Council. Normally, when I was not a member of the City Council I received invitations for public hearings to include the simple resolutions of naming streets, but then as regards the naming of Zamboanga as Asia's Latin City, I never received any invitation. And third, if I can initiate this...yes...I have sait time and again I will repeat it. I will initiate the subjection of Resolution 760 to public hearing and relegate it to the committee for proper ventilation.

Diarrhea kills 2, scores 47 others in ARMM

SHARIFF KABUNSUAN -- Two (2) dead and 47 others were the latest victims of diarrhea outbreak in Sitio Upper Tubuan, Barangay Lahangkob, North Upi in the province here.

An Emergency Medical Response (EMR) was formed after the Provincial Health Office of Maguindanao reported the alarming case to the Regional Health Office of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The EMR headed by the Department of Health (DOH-ARMM) together with the regional, provincial and rural health units and district hospital staffs respond to the area on September 16, this year.

After conducting check-up and epidemiologic investigation to about 300 families in the area, 47 cases of diarrhea was confirmed during the consultation. “The response team collected stool specimen through rectal swabbing especially to children and conducted epidemiologic investigation to identify the source of infection,” Julie Villadolid, DOH-ARMM information officer said.

Dr. Tahir Sulaik, regional secretary of DOH-ARMM expresses distress on the on-going alarming increase of diarrhea cases to Tiruray tribe in the area which already reached to 72 cases from September 3-16. He stressed, “This is so alarming. For only half a month, the figure is already close to hundred.”

The response team checked the environmental sanitation especially the hygiene of the residents and found out that poor hygiene and lack of sanitation facilities contributed to occurrence of the disease. “The worst is, water sample the team collected also showed that the drinking water residents get from nearby wells is polluted and unsafe,” Dr. Sulaik underlined.

To continuously monitor the disease, the DOH-ARMM established a surveillance team. Two (2) staff of DOH stayed in the area to easily check and examine any resident who carries the diarrhea symptoms. The health secretary articulates recommendation through strengthening health education campaign ‘not only in Upper Tubuan but in adjacent areas especially on personal hygiene and sanitation.’

He added that ‘the local government should provide potable water and make road rehabilitation plans for the area to be accessible especially during disease outbursts.'

On the other hand, ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan meets the Regional Health Office staff to discuss further plans and immediate programs for the continuous monitoring of the disease outbreak in Barangay Lahangkob and probable spill-over to neighboring barangays.

The mission was supported by Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) of Maguindanao, Office of Civil Defense-ARMM, 6th Infantry Division and National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC). (BPI-ARMM)

WesMinCom joined coastal clean-up drive

Some 50 enlisted personnel from the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCOm) participated in the coastal clean-up drive led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) last Saturday at R.T. Lim Blvd., this city.

Air Force Capt. Rommel M. Miguel, acting WesMinCom public information officer, said the activity was in line with the observance of National Clean-Up Month under Presidential Proclamation No. 244 with this year's theme: "Buhayin At Ipaglaban, Malinis Na Katubigan Ng Bayan."

"A contingent from WesMinCom composed of headquarters service group, 55th EBde, NFWM (combined), 3rd TOW and Task Force Zamboanga and other operational control units base in this city with their paraphernalias have conducted the cleaning and collecting of garbage at the boulevard," he said.

Major General Nelson Allaga, WesMinCOm chief, thanked the organizers. He said that he is very grateful, "for once again we were able to participate in the 22nd International Coastal Clean-Up Day being the constant partner of DENR in the conservation of coastal and our marine ecosystem." (PRESS RELEASE)

Ramadan and the Meaning of Fasting

Fasting is a universal custom and is advocated by all the religions of the world, with more restrictions in some than in others. Lest it be understood as mere starvation or as an act of self-denial and asceticism, and therefore, a renunciation of the world.

It is not entirely accurate to translate the word "siyam" to "fasting". For the purpose of this article, it will be referred to as the "Islamic fast".

"Sawm" or "Siyam" is a special kind of service to God by able-bodied and sane persons, by observing a particular kind of abstinence from food, drink, and marital relationship for a specified period from dawn to sunset, being compulsory in a specific lunar month called Ramadan , the ninth month in the Islamic calendar.

The word Ramadan is derived from the Arabic root r-m-d which means "to burn away". This is the month in which God grants amnesty to all the believers, to all fasting Muslim men and Muslim women.

In Islam, the following categories of persons need not fast:

- The very young, the elderly, the infirm, the insane.

- Menstruating women, pregnant and nursing mothers, however they must make up for the days not fasted later in the following months as soon as they are able to keep the fast.

- Travelers also can postpone the fast if they wish to.

-Persons suffering from some diseases that cause low blood sugar.

During the Islamic fast (and indeed at all times), the person must refrain from indecent talk, slander, lies and backbiting.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "If one does not abandon falsehood and other actions like it, God has not need that one should abandon one's food and drink" (Al-Bukhari).

The Impact of Fasting on Behavior

There is a big difference between the Islamic fast and mere starvation. The Ramadan fast is an exercise of self-discipline involving food intake, use of tongue, hands, eyes, ears, thoughts and sex.

Many of the undesirable habits and traits of the previous months are automatically corrected in this month. Some Muslims might have been habituated to a particular type of wrong doing like gambling, smoking, drinking, backbiting, fraud, hot temper, domestic violence, and so on.

Fasting breaks these habits either gradually for some or immediately for those with a stronger will-power, especially if supported by constant supplications. To do so , it needs faith and determination.

Fasting is an institution for the improvement of the moral and spiritual character of a Muslim. The purpose of fasting is to help develop self-restraint, self- purification, God- consciousness, compassion, the spirit of caring and sharing, to love humanity and to love God.

The aim of this spiritual exercise is to enable man to achieve proximity to God and obtain His pleasure.

Fasting is the most rigorous of all spiritual disciplines imposed on every adult Muslim man and woman, it frees oneself from egoism, replacing it with incredible peace within the person which makes him able to accept human differences.

The month of Ramadan suffuses the whole environment with a spirit of righteousness, virtue and piety. Just as plants have their season of flowering , so is Ramadan, it is the time of the year for the growth and flourishing of goodness and righteousness.

The month of Ramadan is earmarked as a time for all Muslims to fast together and ensure similar results. Collective aspects of fasting manifest themselves in the fact that it takes place in the same lunar month for the faithful all over the world.

WesMinCom shrugs off claim linking MIG agent as mastermind in Plaza Pershing blast

The Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) has dismissed claim that a military intelligence agent masterminded the August 21 bombing of Plaza Pershing that injured at least 14 people.

Police authorities had earlier reported that the man who provided the improvised explosive device to the bombers is an agent of the Military Intelligence Group (MIG-9) who has standing warrant of arrest for 8 cases.

However, Sr. Supt. Manuel Barcena, city police chief, said the involvement of a military agent in the bombing does not mean it was sanctioned by the military. He said the report was based from three suspected bombers who were arrested last week.

Dismissing the report, WesMinCom said that attributing the terrorist action here in Mindanao to the soldiers who are sacrificing their lives to prevent the very terror that the terrorist would like to perpetrate is unfair.

"Such schemes are undeniably the work of the ASG/JI who are unjustly implicating our forces in their dastardly acts in order to disrupt the momentum that we have recently gained in our war against terror," said Air Force Capt. Rommel Miguel, WesMinCom acting public information officer.

Miguel said that Marine Major General Nelson Allaga, WesMinCom chief, is completely committed to the initiatives of the police authorities in bringing the perpetrators of the Plaza Pershing bombing to justice.

The WesMinCom chief has the firm resolve not to tolerate any acts by his officers and men that will tarnish the good image of the Command and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) here in Mindanao, according to him.

He furthered: "The WesMinCom, AFP and its operationally controlled units denounce all terrorist acts that continue to endanger the lives of our innocent citizens. We have been in the forefront in the War Against Terror in Western Mindanao and our units have achieved significant milestones in neutralizing the leaders of the ASG/JI as well as preventing many of their followers from spilling-over to the urban areas."

"Majority of our combat operations are intelligence driven hence, we are able to conduct precise and decisive actions against the terrorists. Our intelligence driven combat operations have recently gained positive results especially in tracking down the leaders and remnants of the ASG/JI in as far as Palawan and bringing them to face justice here in Mindanao. Our series of successes have recently disrupted the terrorists' plans."

Last Tuesday, the city government has offered a P200,000 reward for the arrest of the mastermind in the bomb explosion. It said the reward will be given to anyone who gives information leading to the arrest of Amping.

Muslim wedding of the year in Kabasalan

"Muslim wedding of the year" in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay" took place this month. Aisa and Mark tied the knot on September 8, 2007 at a private ceremony and grand reception in the bride's maternal home marked by both Muslim and Maguindanao rites. Aisa is a daughter of Abdullah Salipyasin Ahmad, the Rajamuda (a traditional titleholder) of Kabasalan, while Mark is a son of Mr. Mendez, who hails from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. The marriage saw the presence of the bride's close family members, friends and Muslim residents of Barangays Salipyasin and Canacan as well as town of Ipil. It was solemnized by Muslim convert preachers Dominic Jamelon and Ustadz Mukim Tupaz. The wedding was also graced by the presence of Mayor Freddie Chu, Vice Mayor George Cainglet, Hadji Abdullah Canacan Abdulcalim and other local leaders, both from Muslim and Christian communities in the Municipality of Kabasalan.

IPZ urges Zamboanga government to preserve 'ancient' human remains
text & photos HADER GLANG

What bones tell us? This question cropped up when members of the Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ) led by its founding father Prof. Clem Bascar (below photo pointing) visited a site of marine aquarium project at the Zamboanga City State College of Marine Sciences and Technology, where some 50 human skeletal remains have been dug up by construction workers.

The Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ) urged yesterday the city government to take full control of human skeletal remains that had been dug up by construction workers in an excavation site inside the Zamboanga City State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZCSCMST).

Prof. Clem Bascar, IPZ founder, said the skeletal remains that have been found in the school must be acquired and preserved by the local government to determine the historical significance or value that could open new fields of inquiry into Zamboanga history.

"It must not be mishandled and it must be subjected to rigorous scientific examination and analysis by forensic experts or competent authorities in the field of anthropology, archaeoloy and geology," he stressed.

The noted local historian invoked Republic Act 8492, an act establishing a national museum system providing for its permanent home and for other purposes. Under the act the meseum shall have the following duties and functions:

Acquire documents, collect, preserve, maintain, administer and exhibit to the public, cultural materials, objects of art, archaeological artifacts, ecofacts, relics and other materialss embodying the cultural and national heritage of the Filipino nation, as well as those of foreign origin;

Materials relevant to the recent history of the country shall be likewise acquired, collected, preserved, advertised and exhibited by the museum. Undertake research on salvage archaeology, monitor and control archaeological excavations, diggings and researches into Philippine pre-history and proto-history.

"But it's very sad thing that we saw these bones treated like garbage. We therefore urge the city government to take full control of the skeletal remains to preserve its historical value," the noted local historian said.

School officials had earlier announced that close to 50 skeletal remains, including skulls and skeletons of varied sizes, have been unearthed by construction workers while digging about five feet already below the ground in the excavation site.

Professor Florinda Garcia said that "Based on initial observations, the skeletal remains are probably of American and Filipino soldiers, but we would still need experts to analyze and identify the remains,"

Observers say it is quite likely that the remains were soldiers killed during the Spanish war because the site is near a site, which was once part of a stone fort, now Fort Pilar, built by Spaniards in 1635 as a military defense structure against the Moros and pirates.

"But we really don't know, only the experts can determine. That's why the city government should already come in to stop the excavation until the experts arrived," according to Bascar.

"These remains must not be touched or mishandled otherwise they will loss their historical value. External and internal criticisms must be undertaken following the scientific methodology to bring about new information and historical dimension," he said.

Historically, Fort Pilar was originally named as Real Fuerza de San José and in 1719 renamed Real Fuerza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza, which roughly means the "Royal Force of Our Lady of the Pillar of Zaragoza." It was renamed after its capture by the American forces in 1899.

The fort was attacked by the Dutch in 1646 and destroyed by Moros in 1669 and again in 1720. It was reconstructed, but bombarded by the British in 1798 and was abandoned by the Spaniards in 1898.

It was captured by U.S. expeditionary forces on November 16, 1899 until the fort was captured by the Japanese forces in 1942. Three years later it was recaptured by the Americans and turned over to the government of the Republic of the Philippines on July 4, 1946.

USAID-IFES, Citizens CARE conduct general assembly & poll watch orientation

Ms. Beverly Hagerdon -- Thakur, IFES-Philippines chief of party, delivers her message during the opening program of the Citizens CARE general assembly and election monitoring orientation at Garden Orchid Hotel in Zamboanga City Wednesday, September 5, 2007.

Electoral reform advocates and members of the coalition of people's organizations, including non-government organizations, gathered here Wednesday with officials of PNP, AFP, DILG and Comelec for a general assembly and election monitoring orientation.

With the theme: "Strengthening People's Participation for Electoral Reform," the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) - International Foundation for Election Systems (IFES) and the Citizens Coalition for ARMM Electoral Reforms, Inc. (Citizens CARE) organized the meeting held at the Garden Orchid Hotel.

The gathering was aimed at expanding the Citizens CARE membership, electing new set of Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, finalizing and approving the Citizens CARE Constitution and By-Laws, including its operational policies, and orienting the general membership on election monitoring in preparation for the forthcoming elections.

In an interview, Ms. Beverly Hagerdon-Thakur, chief of party from IFES, told reporters they gathered here in the city to conduct a general assembly and election monitoring training for the new members of Citizens CARE.

Thakur, who came to the Philippines in 2004 as a part of small delegation from IFES, which assessed the election process in the country, said she found out that there was a need to support civil society here to advance election reforms.

Currently, the USAID-IFES is working with Comelec in the ARMM on developing training program for the commission staff and civil society organizations such as the Citizens CARE in the Muslim autonomous region.

It is also working to develop internal training capacity within the Comelec on better education, legal reform and looking at automation trying to provide technical assistance and trainings.

It is also offering information about various international standards and election administration and management from around the world as well as offering lessons learned from other countries that have similar growing pains in their own democracy.

"So this is something that as some of the speakers were saying earlier, there were always be a need for election reforms. This is always something that every country has to look at and see is the current system serving the citizens or there is something that we could be doing better," she said.

Citing Unite States as a very good example, she said right now the states are going to implement the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), which establishes voting systems standards that address standards for voting machines, voter registration and polling place accessibility, among other voting issues.

"This means that they (Americans) should be automating all their election process and from that experience there are a lot of lessons learned that could be possibly applied in the Philippines that might be looking at automating the election," she added.

"So we just try to bring some of that information into the debate here in the Philippines to raise a level of information and discussion so that the best decision can be made by decision makers for the Filipino people and to ensure that as many stakeholders are involved as possible."

Mr. Gerry Porta, USAID-Philippines senior civic participation specialist; Atty. Paisal Padate, Basilan provincial Comelec supervisor; Col, Andre Mark Costales, chief of staff of WesMinCom; Mr. Abdulhabil Saudi, ARMM DILG director; Brig. Gen. Bensali Jabarani, PNP-ARMM deputy regional director; and Mr. Hamid Ladja Kahal, DepEd-ARMM secondary director graced yesterday's assembly.

Speeches delivered during the first induction ceremony of the Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ) on September 2, 2007 at A Taste of Asia Restaurant, Veterans Ave., Zamboanga City

Words of Welcome
By Hader Glang
Vice President for External Affairs

First of all, let me greet all of you a pleasant evening!

This induction would not have been possible without its founding fathers, I am referring to Prof. Clem Bascar and Sir Manny Tan, and all the core group members led by Prof. Emmanuel Mangubat, Nung Ajihil, Bernie Concepcion, Ely Dumaboc, Henry Salac and yours truly.

Let's give ourselves a round of applause.

I am not be an eloquent speaker like you so let me just warmly welcome you by reading some famous statements from great journalists in the past.

According to Alito Malinao, author of the Book Journalism for Filipinos, "In a democratic society such as ours, the press plays the role of a watchdog. It is called the Forth Estate, with the function of fiscalizing the three co-equal branches of government; namely, the executive, the legislative and the judiciary. Because of this function, the press has to be adversarial in nature. It has to report, without fear or favor, the shenanigans in government: abuses or malpractices of public officials and how funds are spent."

Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of America, once said that the press is "a necessary evil" in a democracy. "And were it left for me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter."

Freedom of the press to appeal to reason may always be construed as freedom of the press to appeal to public passion and ignorance, vulgarity and cynicism. As freedom of the press is always in danger, so it is always dangerous. The freedom of the press illustrates the commonplace that if we are to live progressively we must live dangerously. This was the statement of the Hutchins Report on Freedom of the Press in USA (1947).

What is a journalist? Not any business manager or publisher, or even proprietor. A journalist is the lookout on the bridge of the ship of state. He notes the passing sail; little things of interest that dot the horizon in fine weather. He reports the drifting castaway whom the ship can save. He peers through fog and storm to give warning of dangers ahead. He is not thinking of his wages or the profits of his owners. He is there to watch over the safety and welfare of the people who trust him. The statements come from Joseph Pulitzer (April 10, 1847 – October 29, 1911) was a Hungarian-American publisher best known for posthumously establishing the Pulitzer Prizes and for originating yellow journalism.

Reporters worry about the dilemma between their obligation to the truth and their obligation to their country. They know that they often embarrass officials by reporting the facts and even interfere with the public policy occasionally but they go on doing it because somehow the tradition of reporting the facts, no matter how much they hurt, is stronger than any other. -- James Scotty" Reston, a prominent American journalist whose career spanned the mid 1930s to the early 1990s. Associated for many years with The New York Times, he became perhaps the most powerful, influential, and widely read journalist of his era.

With these words, once again we welcome all of you to this induction ceremony. Thank you.

Challenge
By Prof. Clem Bascar
Founder

The Fourth Estate in Today’s Hostile World

At present the journalists and other media practitioners all over the world have become the most endangered members of the Homo Sapiens Species. Every day reports about journalists being ruthlessly gunned down, mauled, harassed, kidnapped and maimed come out with staggering, frightening, and numbing frequency. Yet, despite these pervasive dangers constantly surrounding the lives of media practitioners, they remained unfazed, unthreatened, unwavering, and unafraid. Instead, they have become more cohesive, assertive, and unconquerable in their missionary spirit to uphold the truth, justice, freedom of press and human rights.

The members of the Fourth Estate should not be intimidated coerced or threatened to do something contrary to their Code of Ethics. They should write and report events in the purity of objectivity, impartiality, and fairness. Nothing should scare a true-blooded mediaman, not even death.

Ideally, a media must never succumb to any lure of bribery. He should not fall under the spell or control of plutocratic individuals for few pieces of silver. At all times, costs, risks and trials, the Fourth Estate must remain totally independent.

Once a person decides to enter the Fourth Estate, he also accepts the risks and dangers inherent in the job. He should shed off whatever doubts, apprehension, and in-born weaknesses he has in adherence to and in pursuit of truth, justice, objectivity and fairness which are fundamental principles observed in this dignity honorable and respectable profession.

In the performance of their journalistic functions, duties and responsibilities, mediamen have nothing to compromise in exposing the truth and fighting for what they believe to be morally and ethically right. They have nothing to compromise when it comes to the principles they are fighting for even in the face of extreme danger.

Mediamen, sometimes become involved in difficult circumstances or controversies because they allow themselves to be used for the ulterior designs and motives of power-seeking, influence-peddling, and money-making individuals. In the process, they lose their sense of fairness, objectivity, and independence. They spend their time defending, protecting and praising the people who provide them a steady flow of perks and privileges.

Mediamen are supposed to write, report and disseminate breaking news, events, facts and truth in the most impartial manner possible no matter who are involved, who gets hurt, or is placed on the spot as the events unfold.

In order to preserve the highest standard of dignity and responsibility of the profession, media people should avoid being constantly seen in the company of individuals notoriously known for shelling out blood money to promote or advance their vested interests or power ambitions. They should only pledge allegiance to the truth and not to people who show extraordinary generosity in exchange for hyperbolic praises and ego building publicity blitz.

So today, let’s collectively show and prove to the whole world that in Zamboanga City a special and very rare breed exists embodying the best traditions, ideals and traits of journalists. This is the formidable challenge that we members of the Fourth Estate must valiantly and uprightly respond to with dignity, honor and fortitude. May we all stand solidly united to overcome and rise above all trials, risks, and tribulations permeating and hounding constantly our line of duty with the saving grace, protection and guidance of our God Almighty.

May God Bless us all.

Historical note on IPZ
By Mohammadnur Ajihil
Secretary General

On the occasion of its First Founding of Officers, the Independent Press of Zamboanga is profoundly honored to inform the good people of the City of Flowers not Asia’s Latin City the brief but important events that led to its founding as an organization of free, fair, fearless and factual writers and journalists in this part of the country.

It all started with four fearless men who have shared common vision to pursue the quest for truth to which every member of the press must always strive to defend, protect and even die for, if need be. A city like Zamboanga and country like ours would be one lousy place to live-in without a free and independent press where members of the Fourth Estate can express their views and opinions regarding the affairs of government and conduct of public officials without fear of favor. The public who are recipients of information deserves to know truthful and unabridged news and commentaries affecting their interest. And a credible press has one primordial role always to tell the truth no matter how difficult and who gets hurt.

Initially, the five of us, Professor Clemencio Bascar, fellow columnist Emmanuel Mangubat, businessman and civil leader Datu Manuel Tan, journalist Hader Glang and yours truly were bound together by a common belief to uphold tenets of responsible and truthful journalism. Unlike many great revolutionaries, we believed in another kind of revolution without using the barrel of the gun and exploding bombs but a ‘revolution of mind and ideas’ where we make use of our God given intellect to think, argue and analyze things happening around us and in so doing humbly help shape public opinion resulting to the common good.

We challenged ourselves that unless and until we stand up defend our right including yours too, against those who want to subvert it, we could become hostage of our own apathy and weaknesses and lose that right to speak in the name of truth. We may also wake up one day to the inevitable reality that our freedom to free speech may no longer be with us but in the hands of vested entities and individuals who want to control even the little things we all love to do, write, speak freely and fearlessly without being coerced or threatened and at one time even branded as “forces of darkness.” People seeking for truth should not be faulted for doing a duty to help safeguard public welfare. They are “bright stars in the sky” never a dark force. They will never succumb to anyone who would brand them as ‘dark forces’ because their commitment to enlighten the people and the path of truth is unwavering. Such illuminates their good intention of guarding the interest of a community like Zamboanga.

Cohesive in our thoughts and determined not to allow anyone to stifle our inalienable right of Press Freedom in a democracy, we proceeded to accomplish the basic requirements any organization would need to legally stand up- the Constitution and By-Laws of the Independent Press of Zamboanga. My friend Clem Bascar, gifted with scholarly mind and always the ‘thinker and doer’ he is widely known and respected for, painstakingly drafted IPZ’s bible, its Constitution and By-Laws. Then followed series of meetings, discussions and finally after careful and through review, the officers and members unanimously adopted the provisions that now officially gave birth to the Independent Press of Zamboanga.

When informed of our noble objective forming a new breed of free and independent writers and not beholden to any tom, Dick and Harry, our equally fearless colleagues came to voluntarily join us. Bernie Concepcion, Edgar Araojo, Henry Salac, Ely Dumaboc, Tony Remando, Mon Venegas, Rey Banagudos, Mon Saavedra, Roy Albretch, Weng Jumdail, Ric Detuyatu, and Rikki Lim, all came forward with their own free will to tell us they want to be counted and proud to say they are IPZ officers and members.

So on August 5, 2007, at this very hallowed place, A Taste of Asia (ATOA) Restaurant, by the grace of Almighty God and guided by the Constitutional guarantee that grants every citizen Freedom of Press and Speech, we the officers and members unanimously adopted and approved our founding charter. And this evening before all of you, our honored guests and friends, we shall take our Oath in accordance with our Constitution and By-Laws and other laws of the country as an organization known as Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ). We shall then have the legal personality to sue and be sued, hopefully not.

In all modesty, we shall resist any attempt to muzzle the Foruth Estate by anybody, be it public official, political power brokers, business interest groups and those masquerading as journalists under the payroll of people of dispensing public funds to undermine our peaceful existence and independence. And at the same time we also pledge to honestly and faithfully discharge our duties and responsibilities as officers/members of a truly independent media group who shall adhere and not violate the Journalist Code of Ethics and fall into the temptation of receiving monetary and material benefits in the existence of our calling.

Lastly, we ask the Almighty God to always to be our guiding light and protector from any form of evil and harm in the quest for truth as we thread the path of those who may not understand much less appreciate what we are doing; that the IPZ is not an enemy but a partner for good government and honest service to the people. What we are doing is only our modest contribution in the service of country and people.

Thank you, good evening and God bless us all.

Inaugural Speech
By Prof. Emmanuel Mangubat
President

Honored guests, honorary members of the IPZ, invited guests who are friends of Independent Press of Zamboanga, friends of different media outfits who are here to cover this historic event, officers and members of IPZ, friends, ladies and gentlemen.

Tonight’s affair is historic. This is the first time that Zamboanga City, the City of Flowers not Latin City of Asia, has organized an independent press composed of independent-minded media that is different from other media organization. Why and how are we different from other media organizations is the reason why we believe you are here this evening to know and honor our invitation. This evening you will witness a historic event that is unfolding before your eyes. This upcoming popular restaurant, A Taste of Asia (ATOA) where our Independent Press was born and will be the permanent venue of our monthly meetings is likewise a part of history.

Because tonight’s affair is historic you are gathered here this evening to make a date with history. I too is making a date with history being the first president of the Independent Press of Zamboanga. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues for electing me first president without opponent although when I was elected I told my colleagues: I don’t know if I will thank you or not because I would have preferred to give way to a younger member having been the president of Zamboanga Columnist Club of which I’m no longer a member. In know how it is difficult to lead independent-minded journalists.

While we are exclusive organization of independent-minded media, we welcome members who are interested to join provided they meet the requirements of membership as stipulated in our Constitution. We also accept honorary members who believe and share our vision of an independent journalist who want to have media practitioners who can raise the level of journalism to the highest degree of professionalism adhering strictly to the tenets of press freedom and the ethics of media as a profession. We don’t want to be identified with media who are beholden to the powers-that-be to the extent that outsiders will accuse Zamboanga media as the most corrupt.

Early last month, a poison letter circulated that illegal gambling is protected by corrupt PNP including some corrupt media. It’s a good thing that the president of Zamboanga Press Club issued a statement condemning such accusation. While we from independent press cannot be alluded to because we are not members of Zamboanga Press Club, we are also affected, hence it further strengthened our resolve to organize our Independent Press of Zamboanga. But previous to the poison letter a Manila journalist who was in Davao City accused Zamboanga City media as the most corrupt but our friends from Zamboanga Press Club were silent.

Now we want to clarify the perception that as independent-minded media we do nothing but criticize. This is not our role. We also give credit where credit is due. Media does not exist to praise and praise so that concerned citizens will ask: For what? To us the role of media is to expose the wrong doings of corrupt public officials. Our role is also to ventilate issues of public interest and concern that will keep the public informed and be educated. Such is not criticism. A public official elected or appointed must never be onion-skinned (balat sibuyas). Responsible media when criticizing must offer or give suggestions or alternatives.

Onion-skinned public officials, elected or appointed when criticized on issues must answer and refute criticism. He should not resort to name calling. We from independent media don’t go down to personalities. While we are free to criticize, onion-skinned public officials are also free to answer and refute. They must give the job to their PIO. The job of PIO is not to praise and praise his boss to high heaven. He must defend his boss from criticism. Unfortunately we suspect some PIO are ignorant of the issues raised against his boss. This in jest is the reason why we organized our Independent Press of Zamboanga. some reasons not stated are mentioned in the columns I have written last Friday, August 31, 2007 and Saturday, September 1, 2007. As a parting word, let it be known that 80 percent of media’s role is to criticize constructively. Only 20 percent is praising for a job worth praising. Thank you for coming and honor our invitation.

Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ) first induction ceremony a big success

Commission on Human Rights (CHR) regional director for Western Mindanao Atty. Jose Manuel Mamauag (left) inducts Independent Press of Zamboanga officers (from left to right) Prof. Emmanuel Mangubat, president; Bernie Concepcion, vice president for internal affairs; Hader Glang, vice president for external affairs; Mohammadnur Nung Ajihil, secretary general; Henry Salac, treasurer; and Ely Dumaboc, auditor; and directors Roy Albretch, international relations; Fred Concepcion, local government; Rey Banagudos, R&D New Media; Rikki Lim, documentation; Mon Venegas, radio broadcast; and Ric Detuyato, information. Below photo shows Atty. Mamauag receives a plaque of appreciation from IPZ president Mangubat and founding fathers Prof. Clem Bascar (right), Manny Tan (left) and IPZ secretary general Ajihil witness.

Nearly 100 guests representing all sectors of society from academe, civic-religious, banker, businessmen, and local government agencies, attended the first induction ceremony of the Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ) last Sunday at A Taste of Asia (Atoa) restaurant along Veterans Avenue, this city.

"This is the first time that Zamboanga City, the City of Flowers not Latin City of Asia has organized an independent press composed of independent-mind media that is different from other media organizations," said Prof. Emmanuel Mangubat, IPZ president, in his inaugural speech.

"While we are an exclusive organization of independent-minded media, we welcome members who are interested to join provided they meet the requirements of membership as stipulated in our Constitution. We also accept honorary members who believe and share our vision of an independent journalist who want to have media practitioners who can raise the level of journalism to the highest degree of professionalism adhering strictly to the tenets of press freedom and ethics of media as a profession. We don't want to be identified with media who are beholden to the powers-that-be to the extent that outsiders will accuse Zamboanga media as the most corrupt."

Lawyer Jose Manuel Mamauag, regional director of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) for Western Mindanao, inducted the set of officers and gave the keynote address on the theme: "The Role of the Press in Upholding Human Rights, Press Freedom and Democracy."

"My noble friends in the media, I could not see a better opportunity for the ideal media practitioner to come up with the ample courage in revolutionizing a new order of journalism in totally one of the oldest cities in Mindanao. Surely, I am confident of your awareness in your role as guardians of truth and freedom for the people of Zamboanga."

"True indeed, the Inpedendent Press of Zamboanga could not have come at a better time...I keep asking myself, with all the threats and risks in the business of media - what could be the reasons that propel promising individuals to jeopardize their lives in a thankless profession? - perhaps, I should ask the same question to human rights activists as well. To the ideal journalist, such risks could not match the power of truth as he is convinced of the people's right to know being supreme to mere mortal fear."

"Adversely, to the corrupt media creature, truth is like malleable clay that could be molded to serve his selfish, lucrative interests. An opportunity to engorge his already bloated belly fed by lies and deception as he sets his throne above the rotten corpse of truth. He sleeps soundly in the dead of night as he endures the stink of his putrid treachery against those who toiled in the of human rights, press freedom and democracy."

The occasion was graced by the presence of former priest Crisanto "Monsi" dela Cruz, former Mayor Vitaliano Agan, 1st District Councilor Jimmy Cabato, former Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) president John Luistro and businessman Manny Tan, one of the founding fathers of IPZ, as well as some veteran journalists led by Felino Santos and other known personalities in the city.

Prof. Clem Bascar, the founding father of IPZ, challenged mediamen "must never succumb to any lure of bribery. He should not fall under the spell or control of plutocratic individuals for few pieces of silver. At all times, costs, risks and trials, the Fourth Estate must remain totally independent."

He said in the performance of their journalistic functions, duties and responsibilities, mediamen have nothing to compromise in exposing the truth and fighting for what they believe to be morally and ethically right and that they have nothing to compromise when it comes to the principles they are fighting for even in the face of extreme danger.

"In order to preserve the highest standard of dignity and responsibility of the profession, media people should avoid being constantly seen in the company of individuals notoriously known for shelling out blood money to promote or advance their vested interests or power ambitions. They should only pledge allegiance to the truth and not to people who show extraordinary generosity in exchange for hyperbolic praises and ego building publicity blitz."

"So today, let's collectively show and prove to the whole world that in Zamboanga City a special and very rare breed still exists embodying the best traditions, ideals and traits of journalists. This is the formidable challenge that we members of the Fourth Estate must valiantly and uprightly respond to with dignity, honor and fortitude."

For Nung Ajihil, IPZ secretary general, "In all modesty aside, we shall resist any attempt to muzzle the Fourth Estate by anybody, be it a public official, political power brokers, business interest groups and those masquerading as journalists under the payroll of people dispensing public funds to undermine our peaceful existence and independence."

Meanwhile, a message from Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, read by his executive secretary Fred Concepcion during the occasion, acknowledges "your dedication and sincerity in doing your job as the 'fourth estate', to help rectify some nods of media practices of putting Sulu on 'hot pages', magnifying the negative image but devoid of balanced information of some realities of the province."

"To this, my administration in Sulu stands for fairness and transparency. I will always remain supportive to your objectives in the IPZ that will redound to the good name and reputation of the Zamboanga Peninsula and ARMM regions particularly of the province of Sulu."

Commission on Human Rights Director for Western Mindanao Atty. Jose Manuel Mamauag keynotes IPZ induction

Human Rights Regional Director for Western Mindanao Atty. Jose Manuel Mamauag will keynote the first Induction of the Independent Press of Zamboanga (IPZ) tonight, September 2, 2007 at A Taste of Asia (Atoa) Restaurant along Veterans Avenue, this city.

Lawyer Mamauag will speak on the IPZ induction's theme: "The Role of the Press in Upholding Human Rights, Press Freedom and Democracy." He will also induct the IPZ officers led by its first president Prof. Emmanuel Mangubat.

Aside from Mangubat, the other core IPZ officers to be inducted by the human rights director are Bernie Concepcion, as president for internal affairs; Hader Glang, vice president for external affairs; Mohammadnur Ajihil, secretary general; Henry Salac, treasurer; and Ely Dumaboc, auditor.

The directors are Ramon Venegas, radio broadcast; Rey Banagudos, R/D & new media; Mahal sienes, print; Mark Natividad, television; Rikki Lim, documentation; Roy Albretch, international relations; Ramon Saavedra, environment, infrastructure, agriculture & fisheries; Ric Detuyato, information officer; Tony PE. Remando, domestic relations; and John Magno, liaison officer.

The highlights of the program include the doxology from ZCHS main student representatives, national anthem from WMSU selected students, cultural number from Kabuhi Mindanao, acknowledgement of guests from vice president for internal affairs.

Words of welcome from the vice president for external affairs, a challenge from the founding father Prof. Clem Basca, historical note from the secretary general, presentation of IPZ officers and members, induction of officers, keynote speech from Atty. Mamaoag and inaugural speech from the IPZ president will follow.

The other highlights include reading of the Journalist's Code of Ethics from Fred Concepcion (columnist of Zamboanga Today), special number and words of appreciation and thanks from one of IPZ directors, signing of the IPZ COvenant, fellowship and dinner.

The IPZ was organized on August August 5 by independent minded media practitioners and writers of Zamboanga City with the primary objective of pursuing the ideals and tenets of responsible journalism and press freedom.