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.

Troops begin 'development offensive' in Basilan

Top photo shows Secretary Jesus Dureza, peace process presidential adviser and Brig. Gen. Juancho Sabban, deputy chief of the Western Mindanao Command and commander of the Task Force Thunder, at the marine brigade headquarters in Tabiawan, Isabela City. Below photos show Dureza is being led by Governor Jum Akbar to a conference hall and flanked by the Basilan lady governor and Vice Gov. Al Rashed Sakalahul during a meeting at the capitol on the current situation in the island province.

Government forces have began an intensive "developmental offensive" against the extremist Abu Sayyaf group and its insurgent cohorts in the strife torn Muslim-dominated island province of Basilan.

Peace process presidential adviser Jesus Dureza disclosed this during his visit Thursday in Basilan, where he presided over a meeting at the capitol, attended by officials of the provincial government, the military and heads of the different concerned agencies.

"We have started the development offensive. In fact, that's the reason why we are here," said Dureza. "We are on development phase now, although without letting our guards down on the security aspect."

According to Dureza, "There are still targets to be achieved in the military side, but we can do the development side by side with security operations."

He announced that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo initially released P50 million for the circumferential road of Basilan and humanitarian missions in the conflict-affected communities in the province.

At the meeting, Brig. Gen. Juancho Sabban, head of the Task Force Thunder and Western Mindanao Command deputy chief, bared there are three engineering battalions involved in the developmental offensives.

He said the engineering battalions from the Navy, Air Force and the Army will undertake road constructions and other projects such as water distribution system, school building repairs and construction of health centers in Tipo-Tipo, Maluso and Sumisip areas.

It was learned the three military engineering battalions will tie up with the projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to provide labor and equipment for infrastructure projects in the conflict-affected areas.

DPWH is implementing the 135 kilometers circumferential road in Basilan funded by the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has initially released $20 million through the Saudi Fund.

"In a nutshell, we'll be deploying three engineering battalions to catalyze our second phase of operation, which is the 'developmental offensive' that the president has been saying," Sabban said.

He furthered the new offensive will be in tandem with the on going operations against specific targets in the hinterlands of Basilan, but will be more of the humanitarian and developmental aspects rather than all out war.

"In the course of going to phase 2 of our operations, we will be pulling out one battalion of marines instead and we'll be injecting three engineering battalions," he said. "But we are not slowing down our offensive just because we are pulling out one battalion."

Meanwhile, Basilan Vice Governor Al Rasheed Sakalahul called on the military to pull out troops from villages in Al barka town to give way for the evacuees to return to their places and observe the month of Ramadan.

The call came after representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) adopted a resolution, calling the military to temporarily pull out its forces from the areas considering fasting of Muslims is fast approaching.

In response, Secretary Dureza assured that the military forces are doing their work within the parameters of the civilian requirements, although there will be some adjustments in the military operations.

"But let not the Ramadan be an opportunity for the bad guys to take advantage," he said. "We leave that to the military officials. I'm sure they will be able to exercise religious sensitivity."

For Sabban, "It is up to higher authorities to decide on that. If they will make a resolution and our GRP panel will approve that, then we have to abide by it. So it depends now on the GRP panel whether to deliberate the approval of that or not."

In the ongoing military operations in Basilan, about of 2,256, mostly Muslim families or 12,463 individuals have fled their homes from the towns of Al Barka, Ungkaya Pukan, Tipo-Tipo and Sumisip.

Classes in at least 13 schools in the three affected towns with an estimated 1,800 pupils were temporarily suspended for almost a month now.

Based on reports from the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), some 36 buildings that were damaged by the operations need major repair.

"These are the schools, where we would need the assistance of the military engineering battalion," DepEd Assistant Secretary Ramon Bacani said.

Basilan has become the model following the the first US-RP Balikatan Exercises where the international communities have already looked at the province as an example of how a community that had been pestered before by the incidents become a development area, but because of the July 10 incident the province is going to backslide.

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PNP condemns Abu Sayyaf, NPAs in Zambo rally

Police Chief Supt. Jaime Caringal (photo above) , police regional director for Western Mindanao, delivers his speech while military personnel (below photos) display their anti-terrorism placards at Plaza Pershing stage.

Hundreds of police and military personnel held yesterday an anti-terrorism and anti-communism rally at Plaza Pershing, the site of the bomb attack last Tuesday where 14 people were injured, in commemoration of the National Heroes' Day.

The rally was organized by Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) headed by Police Chief Supt. Jaime Caringal in closed coordination with the Western Mindanao Command, the Air Force's 3rd Tactical Wing and the Naval/Marine Forces South.

Some religious leaders from Muslim and Christian sectors, students and leaders of civil society groups also took part in the event dubbed as "National Heroes' Day, Rally for Peace and Security."

Carrying anti-terrorism posters and slogans such as "Cooperate with government authorities, let's neutralize the terrorists!", "Let peace overrule terrorism.", "Vigilance against terrorism", and "Save lives! Stop terrorism", the demonstrators condemned acts of terrorism.

Caringal, in a speech, said "Today, we commemorate, specially our brothers in arms, the Marines, the sailors, the Army troopers, the airmen, and the policemen who have sacrificed in the continuing conflict against the enemies of the state in order to ensure a peaceful, progressive and a just Philippine society."

"We collectively condemn the Abu Sayyaf group, the New Peoples' Army(NPA) and other lawless elements for their terroristic acts such as kidnappings, bombings, extortions and other acts that instill fear in our people."

"We vow to you, the full force of the law and the might of the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines against these enemies of the state. Nevertheless, we offer our hand of brotherhood and reconciliation to them so that together we can work for the betterment of our country and provide a brighter future for our youth."

"I wish to remind everyone that each one of us is capable of acts of heroism. Indeed, if we look back at the lives of our national heroes, you will note that most of them were ordinary folks. May this remembrance inspire us to act even in our own little ways for the good of our country just as our heroes had done many years ago," Caringal concluded.

Imam Ahmadi Baguinda, a member of the group of Muslim traditional leaders of Zamboanga City, spoke out against stereotyping of Muslims as terrorists. "There is no terrorism in Islam. It is totally prohibited the killing on innocent people. We, Muslims, strongly condemn terrorism," he said.

Raising concerned over the increasing profiling of Muslims as terrorists, the Muslim religious leader urged the law enforcement agencies to thoroughly look into the root cause of terrorism. "Unfortunately, Muslims are singled out when there is incident (bombing), but not all Muslims are doing it, only those astray."

Two US legislatures assure RP no cut in military aidMayor Celso Lobragat (right) explains to Texas Rep. Silvestre Reyes a vague question from local journalist as New Mexico Rep. Heather Wilson looks on during a press conference with local reporters at City Hall in Zamboanga City Saturday.

Two American lawmakers in the Unites States’ Congress have assured the Philippines will get the needed financial assistance for the global campaign against terrorism despite a State Department proposal to cut military aid to the country.

“We know that there is an important part of the global effort that we’re to make in terms of protecting our allies and protecting the key and vital regions of the world,” US Rep. Silvestre Reyes of the District of Texas said in a press conference at City Hall.

“We’re committed to continuing to assist and expand the assistance as much as we possibly can within the confines and invitation of your government. We will continue to pour support, including financial, to boost whatever efforts both countries have done to fight terrorism,” he added.

Reyes is chairman of the House’ Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the House Armed Services Committee.

The top American lawmaker arrived here on Saturday together with Reps. Rodney Frelinghuysen (New Jersey), Heather Wilson (New Mexico), Gregory Meeks (New York), and Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (Maryland).

The US State Department had recommended cutting Foreign Military Financing (FMF) to the Philippines from $29.7 million to $11.1 million, and the International Military Exchange Training (IMET) from $2.9 million to $1.5 million in Fiscal 2008.

The proposal of the State Department to cut Philippine military aid came amid the extra-judicial killings in the country.

But Rep. Wilson told local reporters there is a strong support of US Congress for the Philippines in terms of providing financial assistance, training and logistics to the latter’s campaign on terrorism.

It was not clear, however, if she was referring to the US House and Senate Appropriations Committees that voted to maintain foreign military financing (FMF) assistance to the Philippines for fiscal year 2008 steady at $30 million.

The proposal of the State Department to the US Congress to cut military aid came amid extrajudicial killings in the Philippines, allegedly committed by some members of the Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

American congressional team denies US bases in Mindanao

The US congressional delegation (left to right) Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (District of Maryland), Rep. Gregory Meeks (District of New York), Rep. Heather Wilson (District of New Mexico), Rep. Silvestre Reyes (District of Texas) and Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (District of New Jersy). Also in photo are (2nd from right) Zamboanga City 1st District Rep. Maria Isabelle Climaco and Mayor Celso Lobregat. Photo Above Rep. Reyes, who leads the US congressional delegate, gestures as he explains the presence of American soldiers in Mindanao.

A bipartisan United States (US) congressional delegation, led by Representative Silvestre Reyes of the District of Texas, on Saturday denied here reports that a US military base is being planned or under construction in the southern Philippines.

Earlier, a research institute active in monitoring US military actions in the Philippines claimed that Washington is building a military base in Mindanao, in contravention of the Philippine Constitution.

"Our attempt is not to establish any bases here (Mindanao). Our attempt is to continue to work together and to thank the Philippine government and its people for their commitment to work with us on this global war on terrorism," Reyes told reporters in a press conference at City Hall.

The US delegation, composed of other Representatives Rodney P. Frelinghuysen of New Jersey, Heather Wilson of New Mexico, Gregory W. Meeks of New York and "Dutch" Ruppersberger of Maryland, met local leadership here led by Mayor Celso Lobregat and visited American soldiers inside the Western Mindanao Command headquarters. The visiting American lawmakers are members the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Armed Services Committee, Energy and Commerce Committee, Appropriations Committee and Select Intelligence Oversight Panel, Committee on Financial Services and Committee on International Relations, respectively.

On Friday, they met with their Philippine Congressional counterparts, laid a wreath at the American Cemetery in Manila to commemorate American and Filipinos who died defending freedom in World War II.

Rep. Reyes described the delegation's visit as "A welcome opportunity for my colleagues and myself to travel to the Philippines to see, first hand, the close cooperation between our two countries on several fronts."

"We hope to learn more about the many strong aspects of the U.S.-Philippines relationship, and to talk about ways that we can make our relations even stronger. Recent events remind us that our two nations are not just historical allies, but allies in today's fight against terrorists."

Meanwhile, the US representatives have expressed their sympathies to the families of soldiers that had been killed in separate clashes with the Al Qaida-linked Abu Sayyaf terror group in Basilan and Sulu.

"We recognize and we know how sad to lose the love ones as we continue to experience those deaths in Iraq , Afghanistan and other parts of the world. So we wanted to share our sympathies to the Philippine people. Again, we're here to show our commitment and to make sure that we better understand the present challenges that we face both," Rep. Reyes said.

A research associate with Focus on the Global South was quoted as saying that there was evidence a base was being built and that Washington is in the process of building a military base.

Focus, a non-government research organization, said that in June 6, 2007, the US Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) awarded a 14.4-million dollar contract to Global Contingency Services LLC of Irving, Texas for "operations support" for the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P).

JSOTF-P is a unit established by the US special operations command that has been stationed in the southern Philippines since 2002. Its role is to assist Manila in the war on terror with training and intelligence.

According to its own website, NAVFAC is the unit within the US military in charge of providing the US Navy with operating, support, and training bases, Focus on the Global South said in a statement.

It said the specific contract for work for the JSOTF-P is expected to be completed in January 2008 but other contracts may follow as part of the 450 million-dollar package.

According to Focus research, "the JSOTF-P is involved in the Philippine military's operations in the south, and represents the new low-profile kind of overseas presence that the US has been striving to introduce as part of its comprehensive restructuring of its forward-deployment since 2001."

This restructuring would see fewer permanent bases and more, smaller bases such as the JSOTF-P's presence in Zamboanga and in other places in southern Mindanao. Both the US and the Philippine governments had repeatedly denied reports that a military base is planned or under construction in the country.

The Filipino Constitution does not allow foreign troops to be stationed permanently in the country. The rule was introduced in 1991 when lawmakers voted to close two US bases in the country Clark Air Force Base and Subic Naval Station.

Local law also forbids foreign troops to be involved in combat. Under the US-Philippine visiting forces agreement, US troops may provide only training, information and humanitarian aid only.

In May, senior US state department official stressed the importance of a continued US presence in Mindanao where US soldiers have been credited with helping find and kill leaders of the Abu Sayyaf, notably its chieftain, Khaddafy Janjalani.

The US has more than 700 bases and installations in over 100 countries around the world.

President Arroyo brings livelihood to Sulu fruit farmers amid military offensives

In an effort to bring livelihood to the people of Sulu, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has instructed the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to help the farmers in the marketing of their tropical fruits produce such as lansones, mangosteen and durian.

This was learned from Sulu Governor Sakur Tan during a brief media interaction presided over by President Arroyo herself after a command conference with top military and police officials at the Western Mindanao Command headquarters on Thursday.

“This is part of the efforts of the administration of President Arroyo to bring livelihood to our people especially so that it is fruit season and we have an abundance of harvest. So there is need to find market for this produce of ours,” he told reporters.

The governor said the President has instructed the DTI to help them in the marketing, and so a C-130 cargo plane is going to transport the farm produce to Manila’s giant supermarkets like ShoeMart (SM) and Rustans.

“The C-130 will transport the produce as often as necessary for as long as there is enough supply to meet the demand or required supply,” according to Governor Tan.

Amid the ongoing (military) operations against the Abu Sayyaf group, he said the farmers are able to harvest and selling their produce at low-priced. “So far there is no incident of harassment on our farmers.”

Licensure exam for 2,000 Sulu teachers set on August 26

In another development, President Arroyo has ordered the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) to conduct the licensure examination for about 2,000 provisional teachers in Sulu this coming Sunday, August 26, 2007.

Governor Tan said the licensure examination would be conducted simultaneously with other cities and provinces all over the country. “This is upon the instruction of the President to conduct it on Sunday as scheduled but it will be done in Sulu.”

In the past, Tan said, the applicants for Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) in Sulu had to travel to Zamboanga to take the examination, entailing expenses on their part. “But (this time) they will not anymore go to Zamboanga…we’re bringing government closer to them.”

Currently, there 4,000 teachers are employed in Sulu, but it is still lacking. “This is in line with the shortage of teachers in Sulu. In fact, the President instructed GSIS to give solution on the problems of teachers who have not been able to get their benefits from the GSIS,” he said.

Contrary to reports that several schools in the province have suspended classes because of the ongoing military operations, the governor said that there is no suspension of classes in Sulu as the evacuees were no longer allowed to use the schools as evacuation centers.

"The schools are no longer affected because we don’t anymore allow school grounds or school buildings to be used as evacuation centers. We have identified other areas other than school buildings. So it is now a matter of policy. There is no suspension of class it is on going,” he said.