Ulamas gather in Zamboanga to tackle moro pressing issues

text & photos HADER GLANGMs. Amina Rasul, Lead Convenor of the Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy (PCID), delivers her message during a regional forum/workshop attended by religious leaders of the Muslim communities from Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Zamboanga.

Some of the Mindanao's influential religious leaders of Muslim communities and intellectuals met Tuesday in Zamboanga City in an effort to define practical ways to help address the seemingly unending problems confronting the Bangsamoro people.

The meeting, dubbed: "Empowering the Ulamas of the Philippines,'" was convened by the Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy (PCID) and the Magbasa Kita Foundation, Inc. (MKFI) through the assistance of the British and Netherlands embassies at the Amil's Tower Hotel.

At the opening ceremony, Amina Rasul, PCID Lead Convenor, considered the event in Zamboanga City as the first regional consultative forum/workshop and one that is intended to give the Muslim religious leaders the avenue to discuss issues that are important to them.

"Similar efforts will also be held in Cotabato City, Cagayan de Oro, Lanao, and other parts in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) leading up to a National Summit to be held in November this year," she added.

In recent round table discussions in Manila, muftis asked PCID to help the ulama organize a national forum to meet together different religious leaders from all Muslim communities in the country, including Luzon and Visayas that have 2 million Muslims.

"We have to try and bring them together through the ulamas and see whether we can come up with a national strategy and priority so that our people overcome conflict, poverty, injustice, social and political inequity and get into the development," said Rasul.

For one day, participants from Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Zamboanga came up with some suggestions and ideas such as strengthening the Islamic education, unity among the ulamas and the Bangsamoro people and promoting peace and development in the country, especially in Mindanao.

They recommended very strongly to President Arroyo the change of leadership in the Office Muslim Affairs (OMA) from the hands of politicians or businessmen to the religious leaders and for the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) to take a look at how it can assess them as a sector so that they can handle poverty alleviation and development projects.

Dr. Abdulkhair Tarasun, who lectured the participants on the role of the ulama in peace and development in Muslim Mindanao, gave emphasis to understanding, unity and respect among the Muslim religious leaders and the Bangsamoro people.

Tarasun also expressed his total rejection of extremist approaches, saying that moderation is the true essence of true Islam. He, likewise, touched upon the important role that ulama should play in educating the youth.

Meanwhile, Atty. Hamid Barra of the Mindanao State University (MSU), who lectured on the importance of unity in Islam, also stressed the need for unity within the Muslim community.

"Islam is more than a religion. It is a complete way of life," said Barra. "The absence of unity brings and breeds disruption, devastation and disputes. The unity of all humans is the ultimate aim of the teachings of Islam."

During the workshop, forum organizers asked the participants on what are the socio-economic conditions of the ulama in the region and what are their strengths and weaknesses and their opportunities and challenges.

Former Senator Santanina Rasul, MKFI chairperson, gave a message while Prof. Moner Bajunaid, executive director of a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) called MIND Center, spoke on the forum expectations. Dr. Mashur Bin-Ghalib Jundam of the University of the Philippines' Institute of Islamic Studies was also in attendance.

Prominent Muslim religious leaders -- Ustadz Habib Zain Jali, chair of the Bangsamoro People's Congress, Ustadz Shariff Julabbi of the Ulama League of the Philippines, Mufti Tanjilil of Zamboanga City, Mufti Abirin of Sulu and Mufti Hamja Oto of Basilan -- were among the participants.

ARMM proposes P10.6 billion budget

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao presented a budget proposal in the amount of P10.646 billion pesos. This budget proposal was presented by Atty. Oscar Sampulna, Executive Secretary of the ARMM, representing the Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) team who attended the budget hearing at the Waterfront Hotel in Davao City last week.

The P10.646 billion according to Sampulna was broken down into P5.496 billion for Personal Services (PS) which comprised 71% of the total budget, P1.466 billion for Maintenance and other Operating Expenses (MOOE), and P813.7 million for Capital Outlay. The Capital Outlay will be spent for locally funded projects on infrastructures.

The DBM team was headed by Undersecretary Eduardo Opeda and Director Luz Cantor and five other members from the DBM- Manila. Undersecretary Eduardo Opeda said the national government will be operating on a balance budget and not on deficit budget as in the case in the previous years.

The ARMM has a current budget of P8.877 billion pesos, which according to Atty. Sampulna the recommended budget for 2006 is lesser by about P1.2 billion pesos.In his last statements Atty. Sampulna appealed to the DBM officials to restore the said amount because it is needed in the construction of new projects and rehabilitation and upgrading of existing projects as roads, bridges, farm to market roads, ports and telecommunication facilities.

Meanwhile, DepEd Secretary Dr. Udtog Kawit assailed the DBM for telling them that his office has never received an allocation for school buildings, items for school teachers and asked for the creation of School Division in the new province of Shariff Kabunsuan. He also complained of lack of medicines for his School Nurses and medical officers. He also lamented the fact that the School Nurses did not receive their benefits.

Kawit said donors of School sites are now reclaiming the lands because of their increasing families. He added that there is need to title the school sites in the name of the schools so that donors will be able to retrieve it.

All other agencies in the ARMM presented their respective budget to the DBM team for scrutiny. DOH-ARMM secretary Tahir Sulaik presented his department who is given less attention by the national government. He complained in terms of personnel why administrative regions have better personnel and support than the ARMM.

Why we are not treated equally with the administrative regions, Sulaik asked DBM? He said the health state of the ARMM is poor. Most of the budget proposals presented were rebuked by the DBM for not having justifications and creations of new positions were rejected by telling that they should establish transitions.

Abdulsallam (Sammy) Guinomla, the acting Budget Chief of the ARMM stated that the technical budget hearing is held in Davao City because it will be less expense, unlike the previous years wherein the budget hearing was held in Manila, it will entail more expenses which according to him indorsed by Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan. (BPI-ARMM)

Malaysian national arrested for possession of drugs at Zamboanga City international airport
text & photos HADER GLANG

Supt. Ibar Elumba Padao, chief of the 9th Police Center for Aviation Security, interrogates Kosalai Kumaran Poornavelu, a Malaysian national who was arrested at the Zamboanga City International Airport for alleged possession of Marijuana.

Police aviation security forces arrested Monday morning a Malaysian national for possession of illegal drugs at the Zamboanga City International Airport.

Supt. Ibar Elumba Padao, chief of the 9th Police Center for Aviation Security, identified the suspect as Kosalai Kumaran Poornavelu, a resident at 15 Brosh Drive 30350, Ipok Perak, Malaysia.
Poornavelu, 50, arrived at the Zamboanga City airport around 10:50 a.m. from Davao City via Cebu Pacific and was about to check in for a connecting flight bound for Malaysia when intercepted.

Padao said airport personnel found three-sachet type of cellophane containing dried leaves of marijuana (cannabis sativa) when the suspect’s baggage was manually inspected.

“Our personnel supervising the x-ray machine backed by SPO3 Ernesto Saluna and PO3 Ferdinand Almoite apprehended the suspect and confiscated some suspicious items,” he added.

The arrested Malaysian national was placed in the custody of the 9th police aviation group following his arrest at the airport for further interrogation. He was later taken to the PDEA crime laboratory for examination.

As of press time, the suspect was turned over to the 9th police aviation group and placed under the custody of the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) regional office here.

Appropriate charges would be filed against Poornavelu for violation of Dangerous Drugs Act, according to Padao. But the arrested Malaysian national denied possessing the dried Marijuana leaves. He claimed he is a physician by profession.

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An Interview With Monsi

WEEKS after Nuevo Zamboanga leader "Monsi" Crisanto dela Cruz conceded the 2007 local election in Zamboanga City to Mayor Celso Lobregat, the former priest sat down with this writer for an exclusive interview.

The following is a full transcript of questions and answers of Zamboanga Southwall's interview with Monsi, conducted by Hader Glang on Sunday, June 10, 2007.

Q: Are you going back to the active ministry in the archdiocese of Zamboanga?

A: Honestly, I will take my time in discernment and prayers. No need to rush. God will surely show me the way, in His time.

Q: In the meantime, what are your immediate plans?

A: Four things come to ny mind: 1) Time for intensified prayers and reflections; 2) Formation of Nuevo Zamboanga Foundation and fulfillment of pledge to give scholarship and some lands to the poor; 3) Research and study; 4) Time to look forward, to inspire and touch the lives of people thirsting for the good and love that comes from the Almighty.

Q: Do you have regrets running for public office?

A: No regrets. My decision was reached after days of retreat and intensive consultations. I am at peace with God and my conscience.

Q: Why have you conceded early? Is it true that somebody refunded all your election expenses to keep quite?

A: In a democracy, we always have a winner and a loser. I may have lost the elections, but definitely have won the hearts of many. There is honor and dignity even in defeat. I sincerely congratulate Mayor Lobregat, wish him the best of success and health. May I humbly take this opportunity to enjoin my friends and supporters to give our respect and support to the mayor for the good and progress of our city. As to the second point: I am not for sale; I have not received any refund from anyone. I believe that there's still civility in politics.

Q: How will you manage to survive without going back to the active ministry?

A: I shall travel in faith. The Lord gave me hands, feet and the necessary faculties to be able to work with dignity. Today, I open up few pages of the Bible and encountered the beautiful lines and I quote: "Look at the lilies of the field and the birds of the air..." Surely, with faith and our good works, we can move mountains.

Q: Monsi, how would you deal with the priests that maligned and attacked your good name? And those who allowed themselves to be used by your political adversaries?

A: My friend, I have only one line: They are my brothers. They deserve my love, respect and forgiveness.

Q: During the intense campaign, have you ever thought of withdrawing, considering, the betrayal of some close friends, especially, when Lakas and Kampi gave you a lukewarm treatment after initially endorsing you as the official candidate of both parties only to be withdrawn directly or indirectly?

A: Difficult question that deserves honest response! I never thought of it. I was determined to give a decent fight on issues affecting our city. I have conceded, but I sincerely believe that I won the hearts and respect of many people. My thoughts of Lakas and Kampi, though initially hurt, are one of kindness and understanding considering the expediency and signs of the time. It was a good political exercise and truly I fought hard with dignity. Without the grace of the Almighty and the wholehearted support of real friends, I may not have survived the knock out punches of the political exercise. Truly, it was very good and worthwhile experience that enriched my life. Again, no regrets.

Q: If given the chance will you seek public office again?

A: I have no immediate plans. But I am sure that God has some plans for me and in His own time, He will surely show me the way.

Q: Interestingly, towards election day, many people were saying that you would be the next mayor, what happened?

A: I have faith in the electoral process, it has to work no matter how imperfect it may be. Our democracy must have to survive. Many stories can be said and told. Our citizenry knows the real score. Without any complain or excuses I humbly bow down to such a system with the hope that someday our future generation of leaders may have the strength of character to earnestly work for reforms that would improve the present electoral system.

Q: How did you earn the trust and support of the Muslim communities? Majority of the Pastors from the different Christian Churches, sizable group from the business community, the masa and academe. More than 70,000 votes with limited resources, is not a joke. You never got a zero vote in all the precincts, what is the secret?

A: When there is love and respect for each other, nothing is difficult. For what I am worth, I represented my real self, our plans and visions for a Nuevo Zamboanga. Yes. together, in our imperfect way, we presented a message of Hope for everyone.

Q: I was at the Shrine, I saw the Archbishop pointing at you with disgust in the presence of Fr. Calvo; I too attended the Fiesta at Divisoria Parish: it seems that in many words, he is not happy about you. What are your thoughts?

A: I only have highest respect and love for the Archbishop, past and present.

Q: With begging the question: Are you happy of how the Catholic Church of Zamboanga treated you after giving your best in your years of active service to the Roman Catholic Church?

A: I love the Church so much that you would not hear from me a word of complaint. Whatever future plans I have and will make, would always depend on the will of God for me and my prayerful discernment and response. Please spare me from questions like this...please!

Q: You have defended the presidency of Erap and more, so with PGMA with so much loyalty especially in her most difficult moments. Do you feel betrayed and abandoned?

A: No hurt feelings. For me, politics come and go: but my friendship and respect towards them would remain unto my last breath. Everyday throughout my life would be the assurance of love and prayers for them. I have only my understanding towards them, no sentimiento.

Q: Win or lose, you promise to give scholarship and some 20 lots at 100 squire meters each, will you proceed with it?

A: Even years before I run as a candidate for mayor, I have silently been doing this apostolate. I shall honor my word for the poor who have less in life must have more in love.

Q:Finally Monsi, do you have any parting message for the exclusive interview?

A: Thank you for the time you have shared with me. You made me, perspire, but then I say with great joy and fulfillment that Zamboanga City is beautiful and great. It is worth the sacrifice. Someday, in God's own time, we shall all witness Nuevo Zamboanga! God bless Zamboanga and everyone.

Philippine and U.S. Navies Extend Helping Hand during “CARAT 2007” Military ExercisesA U.S. Sailor hands a box of food and supplies to a Philippine Sailor as the two militaries partnered to load donations onto a truck for delivery to a Mindanao orphanage. (Official U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Mark R. Alvarez.)

Partnership is the key theme of the bilateral naval exercises ongoing between the United States and Philippine Navies. The 13th annual bilateral maritime training exercise “Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training,” known as CARAT, began last week in the Zamboanga and Basilan area. But partnership on the water was extended onshore during community relations events supported by both U.S. and Philippine Navy volunteers.

During CARAT, U.S. and Philippine sailors also visited the Boalan Elementary School in Zamboanga to donation of sports equipment, books, food, and hygiene materials. Philippine Armed Forces and the U.S. Navy also provided free medical and dental care to residents in Isabela City, Basilan, during a day-long community program.

CARAT is an annual series of bilateral maritime training exercises between the United States and six Southeast Asia nations designed to build relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. The exercises in CARAT are designed to enhance the ability of our nations to work together in maritime situations that range from natural disasters to maritime interception of criminals and terrorists.

But one of the most important partnerships our nations’ militaries engage in is the humanitarian partnership. The CARAT exercise also focuses on relationship building through social and community service events such as providing free medical, dental, and veterinary care in host communities – an integral part of the long partnership between our countries.

The U.S. Navy’s CARAT group includes the USS Harpers Ferry from Sasebo, Japan (pictured above); the USS Ford from Everett, Washington; and the USS Jarrett from San Diego, California. Approximately 1,400 U.S. personnel are taking part in the CARAT exercises, including personnel such as U.S. Navy Seabees, U.S. Navy and Army doctors, and U.S. Army veterinarians who will participate in humanitarian projects. (PRESS RELEASE)

Winners in Zamboanga City elections proclaimed

text & photos HADER GLANG

Vice Mayor-Elect Mannix Dalipe (2nd from left) joins for photo ops with political opponents Mayor Celso Lobregat, re-elected Congressman Erbie Fabian (right) and new 1st District Rep. Beng Climaco. Below photos show the councilors of District I and District II, taking their oath.

The city board of canvassers on Wednesday officially proclaimed the entire local winning candidates here, except for three re-electionist city councilors who did not show up for unknown reasons.

District I city election officer Roel Bengua, also chairman of the board of canvassers, proclaimed Mayor Celso Lobregat, Vice Mayor Mannix Dalipe, District I Congressman Beng Climaco, District II Congressman Erbie Fabian, and the 16 City Councilors.

Proclaimed newly-elected members of the City Council for District I: Charlie Mariano, Jimmy Cabato, Jawo Jimenez, Melchor Sadain, Leynet Abarro, Rodolfo Lim, Gerky Valesco, and Luis Biel III; for District II were: Asbi Edding, Kim Elago, Cesar Ituralde, Lilia Nuno, Elong Natividad, Nonong Guingona, Rudy Saavedra and Rey Candido.All the winning candidates except Vice Mayor Dalipe and Councilor Cabato took their oath before Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch XVI Presiding Judge Jesus Carbon after they were proclaimed as winners in the May 14 elections.

Dalipe told reporters he wants his family to be with him when he finally took his oath of office on June 30. He said he considers the affair a solemn one, so he wants his whole family to be with him during his oath taking.

The young Dalipe is a staunch critic of Mayor Lobregat.

For his part, Cabato who ran under the Nuevo Zamboanga, said he prefers lawyer Nancy Cuaresma to officiate in his oath-taking also to be held on June 30.

Sadain, also of the Nuevo Zamboanga, said he will again have a separate oath-taking with his whole family present at noon of June 30 to be officiated by Judge Tibing Asaali of RTC Branch XVII.

He said there is no problem even if the City Council is dominated by the Lobregat-led LDP because he can always cooperate with the programs of the mayor.

"I can also be a fiscalizer if I see the program is not good and not priority for the city. But rest assured we will support whatever programs of the mayor for the better of our city," he added.

The proclamation of Councilors Edding, Elago and Iturralde were represented by their next-of-kin.

The new set of elective city government officials will formally assume office on July 1 this year. The Lobregat-led LDP slate dominated the May elections with 15 of its bets winning the 20-contested local seats in the city.

Monsi dela Cruz humbly concedes to Lobregat
Nuevo Zamboanga leader Monsi Crisanto dela Cruz, who conceded to his closest rival Mayor Celso Lobregat, applauds his running mate, District congressional candidate Eldy Gonzales, who declared he wont concede to rival, Beng Climaco. (HADER GLANG)

MAYORALTY candidate Monsi Cris dela Cruz yesterday conceded the local election to his closest rival Mayor Celso Lobregat in what political observers described as an act of "sportsmanship and supreme sacrifice."

But his running-mate, District I congressional candidate Eldigario Gonzales strongly voiced out his dismay over his political rivals, saying that he will not concede to the cheaters.

"I will start by saying I have no regret, but I'm not going to concede to the cheaters who destroyed the political processes here. I shall remain a critic to guide our people," Gonzales lamented.

Vice mayoralty candidate Vic Solis said that from all indications it appears that Mannix Dalipe is a highly popular politician to win for the office of vice mayor.

"I accept the decision of the electorates of the city of Zamboanga and extend my congratulations and felicitations to the incoming vice mayor," Solis said.

Dela Cruz personally called up Lobregat through mobile phone and congratulated him. He told the mayor that he will be praying for him and wished the latter the best of health and success.

At a press conference attended by Gonzales, Susan Delos Reyes and Solis, other partymates and supporters, the former priest said that in a democratic society there is always a winner and a loser.

"Today, I humbly extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mayor Celso. It's time to move forward and humbly ask all of you to join hands in making Zamboanga a better place," dela Cruz said in a statement.

He said he is man enough and he does not want to be waiting for 15 days considering that the people knew what happened during the elections. "Even if I lost in the votes I shall continue to work with friends along the way."

He thanked his three brothers, sister-in-law, running mates, campaign managers, Muslim friends, pastors, labor groups, tricycle drivers and other supporters, calling them the source of his strength and inspiration.

He also thanked his fellow priests in the archdiocese in Zamboanga City, who have supported him, even as he expressed his love and forgiveness to the few priests who have disagreed with him and have done something against him.

"I salute you for your courage and love. Thank you for your support and solidarity. I feel that you've worked so hard and have given your best despite limited resources. To all of you goes my lifetime gratitude and assurance of my prayer."

Affirming his continued help to the landless poor and less privileged, he said he wholeheartedly forgave all those who have maligned him and his good name, "assuring them of the sincerity that comes from my wounded but loving heart."

"With courage, I say I love you all. You may have tried to destroy me but I will not destroy anyone, or to destroy you, will be to destroy my self. God bless Zamboanga City and alt of you. Be a friend. Remember that I love you all. Fear not; be strong, be brave for God's grace is constant and always overflowing," he concluded.

Meanwhile, Gonzales urged the people Zamboanga to continue with their vision for change and to go the street to demonstrate their feelings for what they stand for.

"While I forgive, I can't concede as I assure you, we will continue to fight what is best for our city," Gonzales said.

For her part Delos Reyes, District II congressional candidate, said: "I apologize to the people of this city, the electorates for the un-preparedness that we had as political candidates."

Delos Reyes said she accepted the fact that she lost in the election, but that will not stop her from continuing, not only the vision of Nuevo Zamboanga but the peoples' call for change in the leadership of Zamboanga City.

"Let this be a new beginning. We in Nuevo Zamboanga have an obligation to continue what we have started and to prepare for the next electoral process. Let's protect the politics in our city."

With 82 out of 98 city barangays already accounted for in the tabulation of the cast ballots done by NAMFREL Operation QUick Count, a clear trend for the winning local candidates has already been established.

In the mayoralty race, reelectionist city mayor Lobregat led closest rival Monsi Dela Cruz by over 32,000 votes as of 8:00 p.m. (Philippines time) Friday. For the vice mayoral post, Mannix Dalipe led over nearest rival Mila Velasquez by more than 23,700 votes.

For the congressional seats, it has been Beng Climaco leading all the way over Eldy Gonzales in their one-on-one showdown in the Representative District I. Reelectionist Erbie Fabian is likewise leading by wide margin in District II with 57,165 over Susan Delos Reyes with only 17,894.

The councilors who are making in the magic 16 for City Council seats of District I and District II are: Charlie Mariano, Jawo Jimenez, Jimmy Cabato, Melchor Sadain, Lynet Abarro, Rudy Lim, Gerky Valesco, Noning Biel, Asbi Edding, Kim Elago, Cesar Iturralde, Lilia Nuno, Elong Natividad, Nonong Guingona, Rey Candido, and Eddie Saavedra. (HG)

Fighting in Sulu continues: 1 MNLF killed, 1 captured

Fighting between government forces and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) rebels continues in Panamao, Sulu.

Reports from the headquarters of Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) here said one MNLF rebel was killed while another one was captured.

Soldiers from the 2nd t Ranger Battalion were conducting combat clearing patrol at Bitan-ag complex in Panamao when they encountered the group of Habier Malik.

Lieutenant General Eugenio Cedo, WesMinCom chief, said the firefight lasted for a few minutes, which resulted to the killing of one rebel and the capture of another.

Cedo said his men recovered one M16 rifle with M203 grenade launcher attachment and that no casualty was reported on the military side during the encounter.

“Presently, the camps recovered are now occupied and defended by the Marines and other government forces,” he said.

The WesMinCom chief has ordered the military to place the entire Sulu under “highest alert status” against possible attacks of Malik group and to pursue the Abu Sayyaf group.

He also stressed to the troops to observe the peace process with the MNLF.

Last Friday, the group of Malik launched a series of mortar bombardment and attacks against forces including the Municipal Hall Panamao.

The military said the attacks triggered a heavy fighting which led to the killing of at least 12 rebels and the wounding of many others, including two civilians and several Marines.

In his statement, Cedo reiterated that the government troops are only after the Abu Sayyaf militants who are seeking refuge inside the MNLF territory.

He pointed out that the military forces did not do anything to provoke the MNLF, saying that it was the rebels who started the conflict by bombarding the Marines.

“Our troops have to defend themselves to prevent further damage and stop the escalation of the conflict,” he said. (HG)

Navy-led interagency team seized banned aquatic products in Zamboanga

Authorities on Thursday seized large quantities of banned aquatic products in a joint operation on warehouse in Magay Street, this City, the Western Mindanao Command reported on Saturday.

Navy and Task Force Zamboanga backed by NBI, PRO-9 and BFAR confiscated several shells, dried carapace of sea turtles and dried sea horse at Lian Huat depot, said Major Eugenio Batara Jr., WesMinCom spokesman.

“The seized marine products were considered or listed in the convention on International Trade on endangered species,” Batara said. “The apprehension was in line with the enforcement of many statutues.”

The depository area was reportedly owned and operated by Olivia Li and Tomas Lim. The seized items were now under the custody of NBI.

Under Section 97 of the Republic Act 8550 provides that is shall be unlawful to fish or take rare, threatened or endangered species.

Fisheries Administrative Order No. 208 Series of 2001 also states “it shall be unlawful for any person, natural or juridical, to take or catch or cause to be taken the specified fishery/aquatic shell species.”

Philippine Wildlife Act also prohibits the taking of sea turtles, as the species is recognized as endangered in the Philippines. DENR Memo Order No. 06 in conjunction with DENR Administrative Order No. 48 disallows exploitation activities related to marine turtles.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command has launched recently a campaign, which aims to detect, prevent and suppress violations of marine environmental laws in order to preserve and protect the environment.(HG)

IMAGE OF THE DAY

ARMM Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (2nd from right) leads the hoisting of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Athletic Association (ARMMAA) flag during the opening of the 2007 Palarong ARMMAA at the Mamasapano Sports Complex, Mamasapano, Maguindanao assisting him are ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna (rightmost), ARMM First Lady Hja. Bai Johaira "Bong-Bong" Ampatuan and Datu Saudi Mayor Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Jr. (leftmost). (BPI-ARMM)

Ex-president of lawyers group rebuts anti-Zamboanga Hermosa province

Lawyer Giovani John Luistro, Nuevo Zamboanga Movement council aspirant for District 1, has rebutted the comments of Councilor Juan Elago that proposal for the creation of Zamboanga Hermosa will only "disunite" the city.

"No! It will even involve more Zamboanguenos in the management of this city. Just like as a sole proprietorship is not good for a supermarket operation, the city is not also good for a sole proprietorship," Luistro told reporters.

In a recent news article, Elago described the proposed Zamboanga Hermosa province of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines ZamBaSulTa Chapter as a politically colored resolution and he asked the IBP to drop and leave the issue to the politicians.

"I beg to disagree with his assertion. I'd like to remind him that the IBP is also task with serving the community taking the lead in issues in the community," said Luistro, also former IBP president.

Luistro said he was surprised that the councilor, who is also a member of the IBP, went directly to the press and accused the present leadership of the IBP of making the proposal a political without having the courtesy of asking them.

"This is the very same thing that another lawyer did about a year ago when he asked the IBP leadership to withdraw the proposal when he did not even come to us personally and furnish us the copy of his letter," he said, referring to lawyer Luna, another member of IBP, who is also opposed to the proposal.

"So who is doing the political stand now? He (Elago) has to respect proper procedure," he said. "This particular proposal of the IBP for the creation of Zamboanga Hermosa Province is more than just a political thing it is the future of Zamboanguenos."

Under the IBP proposal, the center of Zamboanga City will remain as a city and to convert seven of this city's 98 barangays into municipalities to hasten progress and development in the countryside.

The 37 of this city's 98 barangays will remain under Zamboanga City while the 61 others will comprised the seven proposed municipalities. The proposed barangays that will be converted into municipalities are Curuan, Vitali, Sangali, Culianan, and Landang Gua in Sacol island, all located in this city's east coast. The other two proposed municipalities are Ayala and Talisayan in the east coast.

Luistro likens the proposed Zamboanga Hermosa province to sari-sari store, where its operation by sole proprietorship is good to a certain level but when its operation starts to grow it is already advisable for it to ship to a corporate operation.

"The city is like that…we have been ran like a sari-sari store by a sole proprietorship for a long time. Why do I say that? For 700,000 populations, we only have one chief executive, the mayor. The city is no longer good for small operations. We need more executives and managers."

"So the proposal instead of dividing Zamboanga City it would bring the city and its people closer to each other. It does not disunite Zamboanga City because no less than the Constitution also provides that for every group of cities and municipalities who want to remain together can also create by law a metropolitan set up. Much like what we have in Cebu and Metro Manila."

He cited Cebu, which is not just one city but surrounded by five other cities like Talisay, Danao, Mandawi, Lapu-Lapu and these are cities that are not part of Cebu City. These cities and several municipalities are part of Cebu Province, who are united Metro Cebu Coordinating Council.

"That is one option available to Zamboanga City. Just because we create a new province out of the outlying barangays to promote better management of these areas that does mean that we have to be divided," Luistro stressed.

"We can still be together to the metropolitan setup by creating Metro Zamboanga Coordinating Council, whereby the delivery of basic services and governance can still be met and coordination and unity among the old Zamboanguenos will still be retain."

The City has a land area of 1,474 square kilometer which is a big place for a local government unit to administer and manage. All the territorial jurisdictions of the 14 cities in Metro Manila summing up all together will not even be half the size of Zamboanga. It is more than two times bigger than Singapore and more than 400 square kilometers larger than Hong Kong, which are the most progressive and ultra modern countries in Asia. (HG)

Joint Military Exercise "Balikatan 2007" Closes with Inauguration of Humanitarian Projects on Jolo

A paved road built by U.S. and Filipino soldiers on Jolo Island during Balikatan 2007 will allow local residents to travel easily from their village to the island’s largest municipality year round.

U.S. Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney joined Secretary Jess Dureza, Presidential Advisor on the Peace Process in Mindanao, and Defense Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane to officially declare the road open in a March 3 ceremony in the town of Bato Bato on Jolo Island. The four-kilometer road improvement project was carried out during the annual joint Philippines-U.S. military exercise Balikatan 2007.

Local citizens travel the former dirt road to the city almost every day to sell crafts, buy food, and trade goods to support their families. But during three months out of the year, heavy rains cause erosion and ruts on the dirt road, making travel nearly impossible for vehicles. But the soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marines fixed the road as part of the Balikatan 2007 exercises, which focused primarily on humanitarian projects in Mindanao.

Aside from the road improvement project, the two militaries worked with local governments and partners to hold 12 free medical clinics in Mindanao that treated more than 6,000 residents; provided free dental care and veterinary care; built and renovated schools, a day care center, and a health clinic; and repaired a boat ramp and pier.

The two militaries also completed a combined task force staff exercise that emphasized crisis action planning in a maritime security scenario, which will help the two countries learn to work together in addressing real-world challenges such as terrorist transit routes, piracy, drug smuggling, and critical infrastructure protection.

The annual Exercise Balikatan is structured to further develop the two countries’ crisis action planning, enhance ability to effectively conduct humanitarian assistance operations, and promote interoperability between participating countries. (PRESS RELEASE)

Zamboanga City reaches alarming level in tuberculosis

The tuberculosis (TB) disease has reached alarming level in Zamboanga City with increasing number of cases, the Department of Health's Center For Health Development Office here said.

Over 1,000 people in the city have fallen prey to tuberculosis every year and out of the 98 barangays, seven of them are with high incidence of the disease, DOH Regional Director Aristides Tan said.

Tan identified Talon-Talon and Recodo as the two most among seven barangays with highest incidence of reported TB cases.

"The prevalence of the disease remains high in the said barangays. So it's alarming," he said without elaborating on the number of mortality or deaths.

But based on the World Health Organization (WHO) report shows that 75 Filipinos are dying everyday in the Philippines making the country No. 8 among the 22 countries with the highest TB burden.

Although the disease is curable, it's the sixth leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the country. In 2000, the tuberculosis killed 25,000 Filipinos, many of them in the prime of life. One TB patient infects 10-20 persons a year.

That is why, the launching of Social Mobilization on Tuberculosis (SMT) Project in the city was very important, according to Mayor Celso Lobregat.

"Tuberculosis has affected so much of the world's population and it needs a concerted effort from all sectors especially right here in Zamboanga City," the mayor added.

Health officials said they have began first with the two pilot sites (Talon-Talon and Recodo), then after six months to one year they'll expand to other villages.

"Our main purpose here is to create a support group in the community who can help people infected with this disease," Tan added.

Marlon Villanueva, project coordinator of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria (GFATM), said World Vision is covering 10 cities for a 5-year SMT project.

"The budget for this project is $4.6 million US dollars," Villanueva said.

He said the SMT projects are concentrated in the cities of Zamboanga, General Santos, Caloocan, Paranaque, San Pablo, Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo and Davao that will end in 2011.

GFATM is one of the principal sources of financing for global TB control efforts. It is a grant-making organization based in Geneva, Switzerland created in January 2002 that aims to dramatically increase resources available to fight the disease in the world. (HG)

Japan invites top ARMM execs for study visit on Malaysia's Halal industry

In support to the halal industry development thrust of the ARMM Regional Government, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-Malaysia has extended an invitation to some key officials of the region to participate in a study visit on Halal Certification Process and Halal Industry Development from 5th to 9th of March 2007 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The main purpose of the visit is to enable participants to take a close observation of Malaysia’s halal industry, particularly study its stringent halal certification process with the help of JAKIM. It can be recalled that as a result of Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan’s visit to the Malaysian State of Malacca, JAKIM , Malaysia’s halal certifying body, agreed to extend technical aid to the region’s halal industry development.

The establishment of a vibrant halal industry is one of the major thrusts being pushed by the Ampatuan administration to help jumpstart sound economic growth and social development in the region. Governor Ampatuan said in his first state of the region address that “the ARMM will take a lead role in the growth of halal food industry in the region, considering its huge potential markets in the East Asian Growth Area region and elsewhere.”

The national government is likewise supportive of this endeavor. The vision of making ARMM as the halal-based food production and processing center of the country is included in President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan 2004-2010. This move is in line with the effort to establish Mindanao as the Philippine’s prime agri-fishery export zone.

Among those slated to participate in the study visit are DTI-ARMM Asst. Sec. Engr. Marites Maguindra, Dr. Abubacar Datumanong, Engr. Mlang Madal, DAF-ARMM Director for Special Concern Iskak Paguital and Ustaz Esmal Ebrahim of the Darul-Ifta. A delegation from the recently created Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification Board (MMHCB) will also be joining the group in the visit.

“We are very optimistic that the study visit will have definitive contributions in so far as the development of our halal industry is concerned,” said Regional Governor Ampatuan. (BPI-ARMM)

Probe into Muslim boy’s slay sought in Sulu

A Muslim women peace group wants concerned authorities to investigate the killing of a 14-year old Muslim boy in Indanan, Sulu last month allegedly by Scout Ranger.

The Muslim Women Peace Advocates-Sulu Council (MWPA-SC) asked authorities an investigation into the slaying of Hakim Abbilul of Barangay Tagbak on February 19, 2007.

The boy was returning home after watching a television program around 10:00 p.m. when gunned down at Kasambuhan village, said Mercia Alli, MWPA-Sulu Council secretary general.

The victim’s companion was also wounded within the vicinity of Kasambuhan, a recognized Peace and Development Community (PDC) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

However, Alli said information gathered from both the community and the military sources revealed conflicting reports.

“In the interest of justice and in line with the objective of the MWPA Sulu council to prevent escalation of conflicts, we appeal to the authorities concerned to demand an investigation,” she said.

Last Feb. 25, thirty-three women leaders representing the MWPA municipal councils of Indanan and Jolo and the MWPA provincial council met at Alat, Jolo and passed a resolution demanding for probe into the reported murder.

Copies of the resolution were furnished to CHR, the Army’s 104th Brigade, ARMM Governor, District 1 Congressman, Sulu Governor, Indanan Mayor, PNP Director, DILG-ARMM/Manila, AFP Chief of Staff, and OPAPP.

The MWPA of Sulu is a group of women from the different ends of the conflict spectrum such as the MNLF, MILF, the Abu Sayyaf, widows of soldiers and protagonists including social workers asserting the right of Muslim women to actively participate in peace building.

It aims to contribute to the resolution of the perennial conflicts in Mindanao by enhancing the capacity of the affected women as human rights and peace advocates and change agents. (HG)

AMORE's 'Wall of Light' unveiled in ARMM

To celebrate the “Partnership for Light”, the leadership of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) the Alliance for Mindanao Off-grid Renewable Energy (AMORE) and the visiting Dutch Ambassador H.E. Robert Vornis led the unveiling of the “Wall of Light” at the ARMM Complex in Cotabato City last Monday.

The “Wall of Light” made of 129 granite tiles were installed to represent the 129 barangays electrified of which 71% of the electrified villages are in the region.

AMORE is a partnership project of the Philippine government-Department of Energy, US Agency for International Development (USAID, Mirant Philippine Foundation and Winrock Foundation).

"This day is a celebration because “electrification of close to 4,000 households in remote and conflict-affected areas is indeed worthy to celebrate because of its tremendous impact in these communities and in the region as a whole,” said ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna.

Sampulna, who relayed the message of ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan extending his outmost gratitude and for the sincere commitment to being our partners in bringing about a peaceful, progressive and competitive region.

The partnership enabled PNOC to supply AMORE, through Shell Solar Philippines Corporation with 55-wattpeak solar homes systems for 30 households per village at a 60-percent price subsidy from the Netherlands government.

The joint undertaking electrifies the remote and conflict affected areas in Mindanao that cannot be connected to the power grid, with stand-alone renewable energy systems such as solar and microhydro.

By bringing light and electricity to the households in these communities, Sampulna added that "we not only improve their lives but we give them hope – a fervent reason to have brighter and more positive outlook in life despite the hardships brought about by the years of instability."

The AMORE program, Sampulna said continues to be among the most important and successful programs that the ARMM leadership have in the region.

H.E. Ambassador Robert Vornis of Netherlands said that their country gave 60 percent (60%) subsidy that is equivalent to 5.6 Million Euros or approximately 350 Million Pesos approved grant component of totality.

Energy Sec. Raphael Lotilla said that “we will bring power and light to all people”. He further concluded that they would complete the electrification for all barangays in the Philippines before 2008.

Mr. Victorino Bala of PNOC stressed that the electrification of villages was part of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) that the administration would provide assistance for Muslim brothers and to provide light on every homes so that more families would enjoy the improve quality of life.(BPI-ARMM)

IMAGE OF THE DAY

Dutch Ambassador visits ARMM. Dutch Ambassador Robert Vornis (right) is welcomed by ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna (left) and Chief of Staff Ulama Acad on his arrival Sunday in Cotabato City. Vornis is among the dignitaries who will take part in series of activities that celebrate the electrification of around 4,000 households in depressed areas in the ARMM under the Alliance for Mindanao Off-grid Renewable Energy Program (AMORE) program. ARMM Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan along with AMORE Chief of Party Tetchie Capellan and PNOC President Pedro Aquino will lead the unveiling of the "Wall of Light"- a symbolic marker that signifies the RP-US-Dutch partnership. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla and Shell Solar Philippines General Manager Ramin Nadimi will also be among the important guests in the said activity. (BPI-ARMM)

Salapuddin hails Basilan marines’ gun ban measure

House deputy speaker for Mindanao Gerry Salapuddin has welcomed the newly-assigned 1st Marine Brigade in Basilan for stepping up the enforcement of gun ban in the island province imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

“We welcome the measures coming from the new Marine Brigade commander (Col. Ramero Alivio) assigned in Basilan. I firmly believe that should be the first task that the Philippine Marines should get into,” Salapuddin told reporters.

He said it’s high time that the strict implementation of the gun ban is enforced to the fullest not only during the election period to contain the proliferation of illegal firearms and private armies in his province.

In November last year, the third termer Basilan congressman asked the Lower House and the concerned government agencies to look into the alleged proliferation and acquisition of illegal firearms by politicians in Basilan.

Reports said heavy armaments being used for warfare and the maintenance of private of illegal firearms by unscrupulous politicians were how the election fever has been manifested in the island province.

“The acquisition was supposedly intended to maintain peace or for security or defensive measures. Unfortunately, unscrupulous politicians have been planning to use the firearms to guarantee victory at the polls through the use of violence and intimidation,” Salapuddin said.

Salapuddin called on the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to immediately look into the situation in his province.

“I believe that the matter, if not addressed, will again tarnish the forthcoming conduct of elections,” the lawmaker added.

Salapuddin, meantimne, brushed off political detractors’ criticism against his bid for governor of Basilan, saying he is used to it and this pushes him more to do his job and serve the people.

“I don't want to waste my time with those critics. I have my hands full tackling unfinished business and pressing issues in congress,” he said.

Salapuddin, a third-termer congressman, is running under the administration's Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino-Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Kampi-Lakas-CMD) coalition party.
(HG)

US-RP Balikatan soldiers fix bumpy road in Sulu

Bato Bato, Jolo Island resident Nader Daud and his friends come to watch the progress U.S. Marines and Seabees, along with their counterparts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), make every day on the main road that leads from the village to the island’s largest municipality, Jolo City.

Daud and many of the local citizens travel the road to the city almost every day to sell crafts, buy food, and trade goods to support their families. But during three months out of the year, heavy rains cause erosion and ruts on the dirt road, making travel nearly impossible for vehicles.

On February 14, Joint Task Force Balikatan 2007 began an engineering civil assistance project, or ENCAP, to fix the road so it will be usable for local residents year-round. Helping out were U.S. Marines from Okinawa, Japan; U.S. Navy construction specialists from Port Hueneme, California (called “Seabees”); and AFP partners. Pictured above, a U.S. Sailor directs a large equipment specialist operating a front-end loader where to dump dirt to fill the new road.

The Bato Bato road construction is one of several projects being conducted throughout the island during the annual Balikatan exercise, which runs through early March. Other projects include school and clinic renovations, and free medical clinics that offer medical attention to local residents.

The annual exercise between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States is structured to further develop the two countries’ crisis action planning, enhance their ability to effectively conduct humanitarian assistance operations, and promote interoperability between participating countries.

“This is the only ENCAP the detachment is doing that will require attention every day we are here,” said Staff Sgt. Jami D. Larson, a Fayetteville, N.C. native. “The road is more than three miles long, and with vehicles coming through here every day, it’s impossible to shut this road down. Working here through the duration is the only way this road will be finished.”

Larson said many considerations came into play when they started the project. “We had to pretty much tear up the existing road,” he said. “There were no drainage ditches, the road (was flat) and it was loose.”

Before construction began, the road was only made up of dirt, but after its completion, it will be mixed with gravel. “The rocks we’re using are three inches long on average, and are much larger compared to what we’re used to working with,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Robert N. Rossell, the project supervisor. “Now we have to use dirt to fill the gaps in between the rocks to make sure everything is compacted so the road will stay together.”

During the project, Marines and Sailors are digging ditches on both sides of the road while ensuring the road has a run-off so that water will drain to avoid erosion and ruts. Heavy equipment brought into Jolo such as graders and a compactor are being used to even the road and create a smooth-riding trip to Jolo City.

A lot of progress has been made on the project, but it hasn’t been easy, Larson said. “It’s tough doing all of this in this hot weather, but the Marines and Seabees are really working together to get the job done,” he said.

Cpl. Derek C. Riekena, a heavy-equipment operator with the detachment, said he and others anticipated a lot of work to finish the project from the moment they arrived. “While en route to our camp when we first got to the island, we could feel all the bumps and ruts we drove through,” the St. Peters, Missouri native said. “We have taken shorter lunch periods because we knew this was going to take a while. Since we started, we have made a remarkable difference.”

With the project partly finished, local resident Daud and others are already looking forward to a better road ahead. “We all come here every day and wave to the militaries to show our appreciation for their hard work,” said the 19-year-old. “The road is not even complete yet and we all have seen improvement.” (PRESS RELEASE)