Features: Engr Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul - Development oriented Engineer of Sulu

The recent issues about the “build, build,  build programs” of the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways in responds the poverty reduction programs of President Rodrigo R. Duterte by implementing more projects in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao because of the highest  poverty incidence reported.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) releases its latest report last June 2017  on the country’s official poverty statistics . The poverty incidence for 9 of the 14 basic sectors identified in Republic Act 8425 or the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act using the income and sectoral data from the merged Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES) and Labor Force Survey (LFS) (source: PSA)

These sectors consistently registered as the three sectors with the highest poverty incidence reported were : farmers, fishermen, children, self-employed and unpaid family workers, and women, belonging to poor families, had higher poverty incidence than the general population estimated at 21.6% in poverty rates.

President Rodrigo Duterte disclosed last ARMM Summit in Davao City that he made solutions  for poverty reductions in the country. He mention before  that :build, build, build programs  were among the solutions.

The government urging the DPWH to implement more projects particularly  in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in order to uplift the living condition of the people  here because of the highest poverty incidence reported due to peace and order situations of the said region.

In Sulu, Engineer Abudulmunir I, Hadjirul, District Engineer of Sulu 1st engineering District concluded that he was helping the government through an honest and sincere implementation of all projects of his district  in order to help his constituents.

“He  would like to help by re-building the province through an honest implementation as the public servant of the people either Engineer of the people  here to make the province improve and develop as well as  to uplift the people living condition as Presidents  wants to happened ”, said the Engineer.

The Multi-Billion projects of Sulu like ; the  circumferential roads, ports, water system, markets, road repairs, pavements, school building has almost done and perfectly implemented in Sulu and other provinces of ARMM through the efforts of Governor Mujiv Hataman through the DPWH Secretary Mustapha “Don” Loong.

District Engineer Abdulmunir  I. Hadjirul is just one who  among the Districts Engineers who sincerely served the governments visions for the better Philippines. (BY: Becky D. de Asis/Redline News Philippines)

Feature: Engr. Soler I. Undug re-build Basilan

Engineer Soler I. Undug, District Engineer of Basilan under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

He is very brilliant man, honest and with integrity in terms of projects  implementation.

He made more projects like: the Multi-Billion Basilan Circumferential Road projects, school buildings, bridges, ports, mosque and more....

He is an engineer with INTEGRITY because he never asked any favors nor corrupt engineers because he is religiously implementing those projects with all his heart.

He did all the bests for the people of Basilan because he wants, a total change... to re-build re-contruct " the road to progress". (By: Becky D. de Asis/Redline News)

Senate panel asked to justify additions, reductions in 2018 budget

By Azer Parrocha  

MANILA -- A day after the Senate approved on final reading its version of the 2018 national budget, a senator on Thursday asked the Senate Committee on Finance to justify the substantial additions and reductions that the committee proposed under the PHP3.767-trillion 2018 national budget.

"We cannot leave our people in the dark as it would only fuel speculations that pork barrel is still thriving despite the Supreme Court's decision declaring it unconstitutional," Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said in a statement.

Drilon made this call after noticing that the budget of some agencies next year significantly increased while the others decreased.

He said that it would also help shed some light on the budget following concerns of the public regarding the alleged presence of pork barrel.

The Senate minority leader asked Senator Loren Legarda, chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, to submit in plenary the justifications for the amendments that are over PHP1 billion “in the spirit of transparency.”

Moreover, he also wanted that the proponents of the amendments to be specified and spread into the record.

Drilon particularly wanted to know the following:

• Why the Department of Interior and Local Government, where the Philippine National Police's budget is lodged, is proposed a substantial addition of PHP1.65 billion in next year's budget

• Why the Bureau of Customs budget was increased by PHP1.49 billion

• Why the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, which was recently tasked to implement the administration's anti-drug campaign, is proposed to receive additional PHP1.21 in its budget

• Why the Department of Public Works and Highways budget decreased by PHP26.40 billion

• Why the budget of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources was also decreased by PHP1.84 billion.

• Why items in the budget decreased by billions of pesos including the Pension and Gratuity Fund, whose proposed budget under the Senate version decreased by PHP17.08 billion, and the National Disaster Risk Reduction Fund with PHP8.1 billion decrease, and the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund with PHP4.66 billion reduction.

The Senate and the House of Representatives convened in a bicameral conference committee on Thursday to discuss their disagreeing provisions. (PNA)

Thousands of Rev Gov supporters of Basilan attended the synchronized rally headed by PSFP

Isabela, Basilan – The group of Peoples Solidarity for  Federal  Party headed by Misriya Tupay Iddilis gathered yesterday at  Isabela City to support theRevolutionary Government of President Rodrigo R. Duterte  in order to give  the way the federal form of government in the country.

There are Thousands of supporters attended the synchronized rally of People’s Solidarity for federal Party in the said city  and Zamboanga, Sibugay yesterday.

Misriya Tupay Iddilis told reporters that there were thousands of supporters from Basilan alone was attended the rally because they want a total change of the constitutions from democratic to federal form of government. 

Iddilis said that the Basilaneous wants the President to declare the Revolutionary Government to make a way the federal because this is the only way to resolved the long time problems of the country were socially corrupted by some government officials and among others,

“We want Revolutionary Government” said the people of Basilan during their 3 hours synchronized rally and most of them coming from different sectors including youth of the said province.

The PSFP provincial coordinator said, that Basilan peoples  wants the government for a  total change for better Philippines for the next generation, said Iddilis. (By Becky D. de Asis)

55% of people worldwide have no social security: ILO

GENEVA -- A new report from the International Labor Organization (ILO) released Wednesday shows that despite significant progress, massive efforts are needed to ensure that the right to social security becomes a reality for all in many parts of the world.

The report named countries that have achieved universal pension coverage but cautions that benefit levels are often low and not sufficient to push older persons out of poverty in developing countries.

It says that the human right to social security is not yet a reality for a majority of the world's population.

"The lack of social protection leaves people vulnerable to ill-health, poverty, inequality and social exclusion throughout their lifecycle," said ILO Director-General Guy Ryder at a UN media briefing.

"Denying this human right to 4 billion people worldwide is a significant obstacle to economic and social development," he said.

Only 45 percent of the global population is effectively covered by at least one social benefit, according to ILO's paper, 

"World Social Protection Report 2017/19: Universal social protection to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals."

The remaining 55 percent, or 4 billion people, are left unprotected.

The new research also shows that only 29 percent of the global population enjoys access to comprehensive social security -- a small increase compared to 27 percent in ‎2014-2015.

The other 71 percent, or 5.2 billion people, are not, or only partially, protected.

The report recommends an increase of public expenditure on social protection to extend social protection coverage, especially in Africa, Asia, and the Arab States, to provide at least a basic social protection floor to all.

The countries that have achieved universal pension coverage include Argentina, Belarus, Bolivia, Botswana, Cabo Verde, China, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Lesotho, Maldives, Mauritius, Mongolia, Namibia, Seychelles, 

South Africa, Swaziland, Timor-Leste, Trinidad and Tobago, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The report says, however, "The adequacy of pension benefits remains a challenge in many countries." (Xinhua)

UIPCF-HFMP Region IX ready for nationwide rally for Rev-Gov

Pagadian City - The United Indigenous People and Christian for Federalism headed by Ms Judys G. Cogo that the synchronized nationwide rally on Revolutionary Government are all set and ready on November 30, 2017.

Cogo told reporters that there are  thousands supporters from different provinces and municipalties in Region IX confirmed to attain the incoming rally to be hold in Pagadian Rotunda Circle at around 8:00 in the morning.

 

UIPCF-HFMP meetings in Pagadian 

This nationwide rally on Revolutionary Government is a nationwide call of support to President Rodrigo Duterte to shift to federal form of government.

Federalism is a type of government in which power is divided by two level of governments, the central and the local or state governments, thereby enhancing autonomy to regional state governments.

Chairman Celso A. Tizon, chairman of Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines, said that this nationwide rally on October 30, 2017 is to give way the president's call for a change in our system of government or re-write our constitution so that federalism can be implemented constitutionally.

The President expressed belief that federal form of government can best address inequality. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

1st ChemExpo attracts Chinese bizmen, 1st-time PH investors

MANILA -- Chemical companies mostly from China and first-time investors in the country are taking part in the 1st ChemExpo 2017, which runs from Nov. 24 to 26 at the Hall D of the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

A total of 82 exhibitors featuring agricultural chemicals, pesticides, electronics and lighting solutions, plastics, and rubber participated in the event.

The chemical industry is one sector that can provide cost-effective and quality manufacturing, according to Henry Lee, Director of Sales for WIMS Asia Exhibitions Services, which organized the event.

“We foresee a market in the ChemExpo here to support the local industry," Lee said.

Chemicals, he said, have a variety of applications, including agriculture, electronics and lighting, plastic, rubber, textile, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics, which are all primary consumer products in the Philippines.

Aside from exhibitors, the exposition also featured a seminar delivered by Helen Maita-Reyes of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), which tackled specific chemicals that are components for making narcotics and the penalties corresponding to the importation or possession of such banned materials.

Engineer Eli Ildefonso of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) discussed the possible effects of mishandled chemicals, as well as waste-to-energy processes that would be beneficial for the environment.

oard of Investments (BOI) director Angelica Cayas gave the exhibitors an overview of the Philippine economy and businesses worth investing in. (PNA)-- (posted by dredlinenews.blogspot.com)

Australia sets up counter-terrorism financing group in SE Asia

CANBERRA -- Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan announced on Wednesday the establishment of a new Southeast Asian group to counter the funding of terrorism in the region.

Keenan, Australia's Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Counter-Terrorism, revealed the new South East Asia Counter-Terrorism Financing Working Group (SEA CTFWG) while speaking at the Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) Summit in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

The group will be made up of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, which participated in the CTF Summit, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines.

The Australian Transaction and Reports Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) and the Philippines' Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) will co-lead the group.

It will work to disrupt the funding of terrorism by countering the exploitation of economic assets and civilians, preventing groups from providing support to Islamic State (IS) and preventing the use of international financial systems by terrorists.

"The SEA CTFWG will coordinate sharing information among financial intelligence units and other regional agencies that have a role in counter-terrorism financing," Keenan said in a media release on Wednesday.

"Collectively, intelligence generated through this initiative will provide regional authorities and industry partners with greater insights into the movement and tracking of funds to protect our community and harden our financial system from the threats of terrorism financing."

The establishment of SEA CTFWG represents the first investment from the Australian government's three-year, USD3.4 million package to support AUSTRAC and its partners as they fight to cut off IS and other extremist organizations in Southeast Asia. (Xinhua)

National pipeline connectivity roads projects in ARMM - open soon in Lanao, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi

Cotabato City - The  Regional Legislative Assembly's Public Works committee meeting last November  23, 201.  The  DPWH National Under - secretary for Unified Project Management Office (UPMO), Emil Sadain and ARMM-DPWH secretary Don Mustapha Loong discusses possible ODA interventions in ARMM, aside from those existing in the pipeline, worth several billions.

A deeply committed Moro at heart, Usec Sadain has included in the national pipeline major national connectivity roads, vital for Bangsamoro Development, now under technical study.

Usec Sadain has proposed ODA for Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur as well as Basilan and Tawi Tawi already in the pipeline.

The widening and expansion of the Sulu Circumferential Road and Sulu Transcentral Roads could be included following that of Basilan and Lanao del Sur's Circumferential Roads according to Secretary Loong.

As recommended by the UPMO, ARMM-DPWH is set bid out the conduct Feasibility Study in support of these big ticket projects of the Autonomous Region.

Pres. Duterte meets with kin of Maguindanao massacre victims

MANILA -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday, November 23, met with the kin of the Maguindanao massacre victims at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace.

Together with the Chief Executive are Department of Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr, who had previously served as the lawyer of the victims in the Maguindanao massacre case.

During the meeting, President Duterte vowed to extend his administration's assistance to the families of the victims. At the same time, the President urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) for a speedy trial.

November 23 marks the 8th anniversary of the Maguindanao massacre, wherein 58 individuals, including 32 members of the media, were killed in Ampatuan town in Maguindanao.

It will be recalled that in October 2016, President Duterte signed Administrative Order (AO) No. 1 creating the Presidential Task Force on Violations of the Right to Life, Liberty and Security of the Members of the Media. (PND)

Mayor Hadar Hajiri of Lugus Sulu bags more projects from Guv of ARMM

Cotabato City - Mayor  Hadar  Hajiri of Lugus, Sulu received one (1) unit tractor, cassava grater, pier and shore protection from the Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as part of poverty reduction project of the government here.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education under secretary  John Magno released school building projects , additional 43 school teachers, books, chairs, students bags and school supplies in order gave the way the mayor's request regarding the needs and problem of his municipality.

Mayor Hadar Hajiri was surprised the immediate responds of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao regarding his resquest. "I am very thankful to Governor Mujiv Hataman for the projects and support of Lugus and also the DPWH Secretary Mustapha "Don' Loong and Secretary Magno", said Hadar. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

2 Communist Leaders seized by authorities in Western Mindanao

Zamboanga City - In a joint military-police operation, two communist terrorists and several war materials of the bandits were seized in Pagadian City last Saturday (November 18).

Leonardo Decena Jacotin and Rosario Delambaca Tabanao were arrested by virtue of a search warrant served by composite elements of the Joint Task Force ZamPelan and the Philippine National Police.

Seized from them were a Caliber .45 pistol with eight live rounds of ammunition, 50 rounds of ammunition for AK47, a hand grenade, 10 identification cards, and 17 cellular phones.

Said search warrant was served at their residence in Barangay Balangasan, Pagadian City at 9:45pm Saturday.

Jacotin is the logistic and head of the Ordnance and Explosives of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

He is involved in large-scale extortion activities and dealing of illegal firearms and explosives. 

While Tabanao is an executive commission member of the WMRPC/Regional Finance and Sub-Finance KOMMID in Pagadian City.

She is involved in robbery and extortion, series of murder cases, and dealing of illegal firearms and explosives.

Tabanao has an existing arrest warrant for the complex crime of direct assault with murder and robbery with use of unlicensed firearms.

"Towards the liberation of Marawi City, the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan intensifies the security campaign against the CPP-NPA-NDF, particularly against the WMRPC in Zamboanga Peninsula," said Brigadier General Roseller Murillo, commander of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan. Jacotin and Tabanao were brought to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group 9 for proper disposition and appropriate legal procedures.

Meanwhile, soldiers of the 44th Infantry Battalion were able to recover assorted war materiel while on combat operation earlier Sunday (November 19).

Troops jumped-off from their headquarters at past 3 in the morning after they received information that armed men believed to be Communist/Terrorists were seen at the vicinity of the boundary between Brgy Tigbangagan and Palinta, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province.

The operating troops found fresh tracks and followed the those towards an abandoned harbor area.

Immediately, a search and clearing operation followed resulting to the discovery of the following: one (1) M203 grenade launcher (defaced SN); one (1) 7.62mm sniper rifle (bolt action); nine (9) rds for 40m M203 ammunitions; sixty (60) rds for M14 ammunitions; four (4) M14 magazines; one (1) black bandoleers; and, one (1) rifle grenade.

“It is believed that the said war materiel were hidden by the CTs after they heard the approaching soldiers,” said Brigadier General Jacinto Bareng, commander of the 102nd Brigade.

“The recovered firearms and war materiel were brought by the troops at the battalion headquarters of 44IB for documentation prior its turn-over to the PNP,” BGen Bareng added.

Recently, units were able to monitor the elements of CPP-NPA-NDF's WMRPC intensifying their recruitment and expansion activities in some areas of Zamboanga Sibugay Province.

“JTF ZAMPELAN through our 102nd Bde have also been working doubly in order to thwart recruitment and terror activities of these Communist Terrorists operating in the area,” said Brigadier General Murillo.

“The capture of two Communists Terrorists Leaders under the said party committee is indicative of your soldier’s intensified campaign.”

“The CPP/NPA terrorists have no place here in Western Mindanao. 

They extort money even from poor people and burn commercial establishments and construction equipment if their demands are not met,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Ground troops will continue to collaborate with the police in the conduct of law enforcement support operation to ensure the defeat of communist terrorists operating in our joint area of operations.”

“I would like to congratulate our policemen and the soldiers under JTF Zampelan for this noteworthy accomplishment,” the WestMinCom Chief added.

Arrest of remaining Maguindanao massacre suspects sought

By Edwin Fernandez  

AMPATUAN, Maguindanao--Relatives of the 58 victims of the Maguindanao massacre asked government security forces on Thursday to arrest the remaining suspects in the carnage who remain at large.

Relatives of slain journalists and the family of Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu commemorated the 8th year anniversary of the massacre in Sitio Masalay, Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao. They offered prayers and released white balloons in remembrance of their loved ones slain in the incident.

Mangudadatu, who lost his wife Genalyn in the massacre along with eight other women relatives, said three or four close relatives of primary suspect Andal “Unsay” Ampatuan Jr. are still at large despite their participation in the country’s worst election-related violence.

Mangudadatu said he and the relatives of other victims are optimistic that President Rodrigo Duterte will help fast track the resolution of cases against the suspects, including the arrest all massacre suspects.

The governor cited reports that some of the suspects, grandsons of the late Governor Andal Sr., had joined the local terrorists group with links to ISIS.

Marino Ridao of Cotabato City who lost his son Tony in the incident, said he is not losing hope that justice will be served.

“Hopefully, under President Duterte’s term, justice for the victims is finally served,” said Ridao, 87.

Ridao said he would want the resolution of the case while he is still alive.

Ivy Maravilla whose husband Ernesto, journalist of Bombo Radyo in Koronadal City, was one of those killed, vowed she will not stop fighting for justice for her husband and other massacre victims.

Thirty-two journalists and media workers joined a convoy of Mangudadatu’s wife and relatives in filing his certificate on candidacy on Nov. 23, 2009 in Shariff Aguak town.

But the convoy was stopped by the heavily armed Andal Jr and his militia. The victims were herded and executed at Sitio Masalay, a mountainous area in Ampatuan town.

Andal Jr., his father and siblings including former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Governor Zaldy Ampatuan, were jailed at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig in connection with the incident. Andal Sr. died while in detention at the maximum security prison facility.

More than 100 of the 197 identified suspects are now detained and face prosecution. (PNA)

Fun Run initiated by Basilan Chapter PICE President Soler I. Undug

Isabela City, Basilan - Personnel of Joint Task Force Basilan and 4SFBn, SFR(A), SOCOM, PA participated in the Fun Run activity initiated by the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers Basilan Chapter with the theme: "Istraktura at Kalusugan handog ng PICE-Basilan".

According to  Basilan chapter PICE President District Engineer Soler I. Undug known as Relos D'Great, "running made worries disappear". (By: Becky D. de Asis)

HFMP participated "gyera kontra basura" along coastal line of Davao City

GYERA kontra BASURA is  Davao City People,s initiatives spearheaded by Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines under Chaiman Celso A. Tizon in order  to help Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio of her  Bantay Dagat Program has launched today at the coastal line of Barangay 76-A Bucana, Davao City.

The said activity supported with Barangay officials, Schools and Universities, NGO's, PO's and Multi sectoral groups of the said city earlier. (Nov.18, 2017) (By: Becky D. de Asis)

Jolo seaport expansion bring back confidence and public trust - Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul

From left to right: District Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul, PPA Manager Undug, Task Force Sulu Commander, Gen. Sobejana, Mayor Kerkhar Tan, DPWH-Sec. Mustapha "Don" Loong and other Sulu officials.

Jolo, Sulu  -  "A dream come true" this has been the long wish of the residents of Jolo as expressed by Jolo Mayor Kerkhar Tan due to the project.

According to Mayor Tan, the boulevard and the expanded port will usher a new pace for Jolo in terms of development.

The 7000 square meters total area of the Expanded Jolo Port will provide enough space for larger cargo vessels and passersby said DPWH - Secretary Mustapha "Don" Loong.

Almost  P500 Million budget of the said projects which include the expanded port 2017 budget, the  left and right areas apportioned with P200 million and the boulevard construction with P200 million are all set to start by 2018 said Secretary Mustapha "Don" Loong during the ceremony.

Regional Governor  Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao  said, that  the realization of these  projects would attract more investors and provide additional livelihood opportunities for the people here.

DPWH 1st Engineering District  Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul also added that this port expansion bring back confidence and public trust because the ARMM honestly implemented more projects in the region more particular in Sulu.

"I salute to the Autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao because they never fails  their promises and  dreams of the people here in Sulu in particular", Governor Mujiv Hataman and Secretary Mustapha "Don" Loong are truly public servants and they are both loyal and willing to help the needy", said Engineer Hadjirul in phone patch interview.(By: Becky D. de Asis)

Climbing sacred Bongao Peak now easier

By Darwin Wally Wee  

BONGAO, Tawi-tawi -- One of the country’s most majestic and scenic mountains, the Bongao Peak, got a further sprucing-up with the completion of the construction of infrastructures to make access to it easier and friendlier.



Top officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), led by Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman inaugurated the PHP56-million project in July in Bongao Municipality, Tawi-Tawi province.





“These projects are part of our desire to improve the tourism infrastructures in the autonomous Muslim region," he said.



The project includes an access road, tourist center, concreting of about 750 steps leading to its zenith, installation of railings for support and protection, and construction of resting sheds.  

Tourists will register at the visitors’ center, where they will get a briefing about the famous eco-tourism park. 

An entrance fee of PHP20 is collected for the maintenance budget of the facilities.



The inauguration ceremony was highlighted by a trek to the top led by Gov. Hataman, accompanied by Bongao Mayor Jimuel Que, Provincial Governor Rashidin Matba, and other ARMM and local officials.


"We want to position the beautiful southern island province of Tawi-tawi as one of the best tourism destination sites in the country," Matba said.



The project was implemented through a Memorandum of Agreement between the regional government and the municipal government of Bongao.

 

 

The peak is a sanctuary for many kinds of animals including white monkeys. (Photo by Darwin Wee)

Development of the eco-tourism park, aimed at the preservation and conservation of the area, is one of the priority projects of the Hataman administration.



Bongao Peak is one of the 12 key biodiversity sites in the country, protected by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources under its New Conservation Areas in the Philippines Project.



The Peak can be seen from miles around and is a sanctuary for many kinds of wild animals, the most of famous which are rare white monkeys and wild boars that annually migrate to the area from nearby Malaysia.

Tawi-Tawi Province lies adjacent to Sabah, which is thickly forested and is home to renowned orangutans.


Locals call the peak Bud Bongao. They revere it as a sacred spiritual haven, similar to Mount Banahaw in Luzon.



Que said around 1,500 tourists visit the peak every week. Last year, the region’s Tourism department recorded around one million tourist arrivals in Tawi-Tawi.



“There have a been a lot of marathon games we carried out in Bud Bongao,” he said.



To increase visitor and tourist arrivals in the town, Que said the local government will sustain and maintain Bud Bongao and will also conduct activities and projects that will further promote tourism in the municipality.



“As we market Bud Bongao as one of the destination sites on the island province, we are mindful of the ecological balance that we need to achieve. We have to sustain the ecosystem of this majestic mountain," he said. (PNA) 

'Foreign fighters' helping BIFF in Maguindanao, N. Cotabato

By Priam Nepomuceno  

MANILA -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is still verifying reports that foreign fighters or jihadists are helping the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the ongoing campaign in Maguindanao and North Cotabato.

This was stressed by Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla, AFP spokesperson, in an interview Sunday.

"Oo, merong binitawang salita yun mga taga 6th Infantry Division (Lt. Col. Gerry Bersana of the 6th Civil-Military Operations). Positive, may mga nakita dun. Pero hindi pa ma-ascertain kung sino-sino yung mga yun (Yes, the 6th Infantry Division mentioned something about that. Positive, they saw something there. But they cannot ascertain yet whom they have seen)," he added.

These individuals are foreign looking, the AFP spokesperson admitted, but said validation is needed to determine whether these foreign fighters are among those reported present in the five-month battle in Marawi City.

"Foreign-looking but we need to validate and ascertain. Hindi namin sure (if galing Marawi) pero malamang iba ‘to (We are not sure if they were from Marawi but it seems these are from a different place)," he added.

Padilla declined to comment on whether the sighted foreign terrorists are Caucasian-looking.

"They may be any nationality that’s why there’s a need to check further. Tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang operations against BIFF, nangunguna diyan ay 6th Infantry Division sa ilalim ni Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega (Operations against BIFF are ongoing. It is spearheaded by the 6th Infantry Division under Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega)," he added.

Operations against the terror group started last November 15 and 17 after a large concentration of BIFF men was spotted in Maguindanao and North Cotabato, respectively. (PNA)

Martial law extension needs Congress approval: Drilon

By Azer Parrocha  

MANILA -- Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said that the recommendation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to possibly extend martial law in Mindanao anew will need the approval of the Congress.

“Kung hihilingin nila na i-extend, dapat humingi formally ng authority sa Kongreso na i-extend (If they wish to extend, they should formally seek authority from the Congress to extend it),” Drilon said in a radio interview over the weekend.

Drilon made this remark after Malacañang said it would accept the AFP recommendation for an extension of martial law amid prevailing security threats in the war-torn region.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, in a radio interview, said that it is up to President Rodrigo Duterte to decide on the AFP's recommendation to extend.

Drilon, however, said that Duterte himself knew that according to the Constitution, it is Congress that has the authority to extend the martial law.

“Hindi naman siguro gagawin ng pangulo na i-extend sa sarili lang niya, on his own account. Alam ng pangulo ang ating Saligang Batas, na ang mag-authorize sa extension ay ang Kongreso (I don’t think the President would extend it on his own. The President knows the Constitution, that the Congress is authorized to determine the need for an extension),” Drilon said.

The senator explained that Congress will decide “on the basis of the evidence presented” before deciding on the need to extend the martial law.

“Hihingin natin kung ano ang kanilang basehan bakit papahabain na naman itong martial law (Let us ask for their basis for extending martial law),” he added.

In July, Congress voted to extend martial law in Mindanao until yearend after the proclamation reached its 60-day constitutional limit. (PNA)

Circumferential Road projects boost the living condition of the people of Sulu

Jolo, Sulu - Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul of 1st Engineering District of Sulu conducted a massive projects inspection more particular this multi-million circumferential road project in the municipality of Maimbung-Parang road.

Engineer Hadjirul together with Secretary Mustapha "Don" Loong with his operation engineer Ajan Ajijul and other engineers  personally inspect the area every now and then just to be sure the worthy and capability of the projects.

The said circumferential road projects in Sulu, one of the flagship projects of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao under Governor Mujiv Hataman.

Recently Hataman said, that the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will helps the people to uplift their living condition by implementing this circumferential road from jolo down to far-lung areas of the province, not only in Sulu but throughout the region.

 Along this projects of the ARMM, the people easily bring their products down to the markets with a very affordable fare because of beautiful and wide circumferential roads from their origin down to the market, Hataman said recently.(By: Becky D. de Asis)

District Engineer of Basilan Engr. Soler I. Undug worried the safety of his construction workers

Lamitan, Basilan - District Engineer Soler I. Undug visit the 104th Brigade commander General Judymax R. Uy,  at Tabiawan headquarter earlier just to asked a military support regarding the safety of the contractors and projects of his area of responsibility.

Lately, the encounter between the Abussataf and the government forces along the ongoing construction of circumferential roads will hamper the contractor to stop their construction because of their safety. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

HFMP-Tapang at Malasakit conduct nationwide rally in support the declaration of Revolutionary Government of Pres.Duterte

Davao City – The Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines (HFMP) under Chairman Celso  A. Tizon will conduct the nationwide rally in support the Revolutionary Government to quell destabilization moves against Duterte's administration.

There are thousands of supporters from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao wh  support the nationwide rally on November 30, 2017 to be led by Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippnes – Tapang at Malasakit under Chairman Celso A. Tison and Mayor Sarah Duterte of Davao City.

The HFMP-Tapang at Malasakit calling the attention of all supporters of the President Rodrigo R. Duterte to come out and join the rally on November 30, 2017.

Earlier, the Vice Governor of Maguindanao Lester Sinsuat showing his support to the incoming rally because the Maguindanao wants this Revolutionary Government because of the presence of  BIFF or Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter of his province.

 

Vice Governor Lester Sinsuat (center) with HFMP Chairman Celso A. Tison (right), Astig National Secretary Vergilio Dela Cruz (left) with Deputy Mayor of Davao City Gapor "Randy" Usman and Jun Madali.

Vice Governor Sinsuat personally visit the office of Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines earlier just to confirmed his full support to the Revolutionary Government of the president.

Meanwhile, National Secretary Vergillo Dela Cruz with Deputy Mayor of Davao City Gapor Usman and Jun Madali of Immigration Office told reporters that the said incoming rally for Revolutionary Government will help the president to depend our country against the enemy of the state. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

Governor Cerilles: President Will Be Imprison After His Terms

“President Rodrigo Duterte will surely go to jail after his term,” Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio Cerilles reportedly said to media personalities.

The alleged statement was given after the withdrawal of his police deputization.

When asked by media members, the governor still had no knowledge as to why the National Police Commission released the Resolution No. 2017-571 that reversed the power of the governor’s command. Though confidential report said that Napolcom made the said resolution due to abuse of power.

The governor, conversely, vowed to counter the federalism, which has been the main platform of Duterte’s administration.

‘Tony’ Cerilles is the governor of Zamboanga del Sur since June 30, 2010. He was a member of the House of Representatives of the Philippines as the representative of the second district of Zamboanga del Sur prior to a governorship. His wife, Aurora Enerio-Cerilles, succeeded him in the Congress who also preceded him in the governorship of the province.

The governor’s family were into politics for decades until recently link to more controversies.

Vice Governor Ace Cerilles was bashed after his alleged connivance with Duterete’s nemeses for his downfall, which includes Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, one of the hardest critic of the President; incumbent Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, who sponsored the impeachment complaint against the President; and former government officials under President Noynoy Aquino; ex-politiko Mark Lapid; and Ronald Llamas.

But the biggest controversy is the report by Inquirer, which accused the couple of spending public funds for their “personal and private use and sought their preventive suspension from office while the case is being investigated.

According to the report, six former and current members of the couple’s staff have charged them with plunder, malversation, and falsification in the Office of the Ombudsman.

T
hough the governor denied the allegations, the complainants further alleged that the couple operated the “suertes” illegal numbers game, which was managed by provincial employees

Sources: RMN, Mindanao Politics, The Inquirer Photo Credit: Pia Zampen, ILovePagadian

Sibutu Search and Rescue base of PCG kicks-off of their ground breaking ceremony

Sibutu, Tawi –Tawi – The  Philippine Coast Guard ( PCG) Western Mindanao District Commander, Captain Ronnie Gavan headed the ground breaking ceremony with Mayor Alshefa Pajiji and Gov. Rash Matba  of  the Sibutu Search and Rescue Base at Tongsibalo, Sibutu Tawi-Tawi earlier.

15th Infantry Battalion of Phillippine Army conducted "football for a peace" during the Nat'l Children's Month

(Photo by Rex Siega)

SAPAD, Lanao del Norte - “BATA, ILIGTAS SA DROGA” for this year’s theme of the 25th National Children’s Month (NCM) celebration which is aligned to the President’s campaign against Illegal Drugs. 

As support to this celebration, the Bravo (Brahman) Company, 15IB, 3ID, PA in partnership with Mr Joseph Ceriales, Blogger/Traveler and the same time Football mentor coming from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental initiated the Football Clinic dubbed as FOOTBALL FOR PEACE, Sports for A Change, Leadership and Values Formation Training” in selected students of Saint Joseph Community High School and Sapad Central Elementary School, Brgy Poblacion, Sapad, LDN.

This occasion is an opportunity for the Brahman Troopers of 15IB,3ID,PA, teachers and students of Sapad, LDN to show their willingness to support the government program especially in this campaign against illegal drugs. 

This activity is highly appreciated by the teachers and students that the AFP is truly a friend, protector and a messenger of peace through the current campaign plan of the AFP which is known as Development Support and Security Plan (DSSP) “Kapayapaan” which gives emphasis to the peaceful settlement of peace-inclined threat groups and also aims to contribute to nation building, provides active support to other law enforcement agencies. (with report by: Mike Navarro)

NPA rebels set up checkpoints in Agusan torch trucks

                                             (Photos courtesy of Erwin Malinao)

Agusan del Norte - Communist guerrillas set up checkpoints, on Tuesday morning, along the national highway in Barangay Cuyago, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

Before fleeing, the rebels set on fire two trucks loaded with cases of beer. 

Government forces have been deployed to conduct investigation and pursuit operations against the NPA.                             

WestMinCom turn over rescued kidnap victims to Vietnamese authorities

The Western Mindanao Command turned over three rescued kidnap victims and the cadaver of another victim to Vietnamese authorities in Zamboanga City last November 12.

Buy Xuan Vien, Bui Trung Duc, and Nguten Quang Huy were officially received by Nguyen Duc Bien, the representative of the Vietnamese Embassy at around 11am last Sunday in Camp Navarro, Calarian.

The rescued victims were made to undergo medical checkup in the military hospital inside WestMinCom last November 11.

The cadaver of Nguyin Huu Trong, another Vietnamese KV who was already dead due to a lingering illness when rescued, will be brought to Manila to undergo autopsy.

The group will fly back to their country after the needed procedures and documentations in Manila.

Present also during the turnover were the Commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, Rear Admiral Rene Medina; the NFWM Deputy Commander for Marine Operation, Captain Hernanie Songano; and the NFWM Deputy for Fleet Operation, Captain Caesar Valencia.

“Your navy in WestMinCom area is very thankful for the recent success,” said Rear Admiral Medina. “We will be more motivated to continue doing our job the best way we can.”

The Vietnamese were rescued from the hands of the Abu Sayyaf Group in a special operation of the Navy and the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi launched near Kang Tipayan Island in Languyan, Tawi-Tawi at around 7:45am last November 10.

Said hostages, all crew members of Marine Vessel Giang Hai 5, were abducted by the Abu Sayyaf bandits off the waters of Pearl Bank, Pangutaran, Sulu on February 25, 2017.

Of the 17 crew members boarding the said vessel, two were killed while attempting to escape from the Abu Sayyaf.

Ten were rescued by the troops, while the group of Xuan Vien was forcibly taken and transported by the bandits to mainland Sulu.

As of this date, there are seven foreigners and nine Filipinos who are still held by the Abu Sayyaf in the hinterlands of Sulu.

“We are happy to send them off back to their families” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“Their experiences had been rough and it is just right that they spend time with their families the soonest.”

“Again, my commendations to our Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi and the Naval Forces Western Mindanao troops for this accomplishment.”