Fire hit Zamboanga City during Xmas season - P2 M estimated damages

Zamboanga City, Philippines(The Redline News Philippine) – Fire hit  along Cariño Compound, Camino Nuevo Zamboanga City which started at the residence of certain Tubil at about 7:37PM of the December 25 while celebrating Christmas season.

The fire investigator of Bureau of Fire Protection  (BFP) have declared more or less one hundred (100) houses were totally burned last December 25,

Police said that there were two (2) persons were assess due to suffocation or difficult of breathing. 

The victims  identified as Noel Ludin and Numeña Yabo both of legal age and residents of same address and one (1) incurred abrasion identified as Rina Casas of legal age of same address and one (1) sustained minor burned injury identified as Mamino Briones of legal age of same address and one (1) was rushed to Zamboanga Medical Center  and declared Dead On Arrival  by the attending physician.

The  caused for his death was not determined which was identified as Romeo Ubat, 50 year old of Camino Nuevo this city..

The Caused of fire is not yet determined wherein estimated damaged more or less two million pesos (P2, 000, 000.00). (PR/PRO9/posted by Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)

GRP chief negotiator visits NPA stronghold

Davao City, Philippines/The Redline News Philippines - Government chief peace negotiator (GRP) (NPA) in Paquibato District, Davao City on Monday (December 26) to attend a peace forum which also coincided with the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Speaking before Silvestre ‘Bebot’ Bello made a historic first by visiting one of the village strongholds of the rebel New People’s Army 8,000 rebel sympathizers and supporters.

Bello shared the same optimism with CPP founding chair Jose Maria Sison who, in a video message, said the prospect of achieving peace under the Duterte government is brighter than any point in the rebel’s almost 5 decades of armed rebellion.

The head of the GRP peace panel was accompanied by his undersecretary Joel Maglungsod and Interior and Local Government Secretary Mike Sueno.

Bello assured rebel leaders that some of the sickly and elderly political detainees would soon be released. “It is just a matter of time.

The president will keep his word,” Bello said in the sidelines during a break in the program of the rebels.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier announced he would order the release of elderly and sick detained rebels in time for Christmas for humanitarian reasons.

Presidential Adviser for Peace Process Jesus Dureza also confirmed that a directive has already been issued for the release of some 17 or 20 detained rebels.

“Let us just wait for the formal announcement of the president,” Dureza earlier said.

Bello also explained that the next release of rebels for humanitarian reasons is not tied to the bilateral ceasefire agreement that the government is seeking to forge with te rebels.

The National Democratic Front, the political umbrella of the CPP and the NPA, has demanded the release of 434 detained rebel leaders and members as compliance to the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), which the two peace panels signed during the Ramos administration.

Bello however asked for a little more patience.

“There are some legal processes that we have to comply before they can be released,” he explained.

He said he will be meeting with the president on December 29 and will again bring up the matter.

Meanwhile, Bello, who is also labor secretary, agreed with Sison that a final peace deal will have to be signed very soon so that “this can be implemented under the Duterte administration.

” A former human rights lawyer, Bello said it is time to end the war in the countryside for the sake of combatants and the communities affected by the war in the countryside.

He said the next round of talks that will be held in Rome, Italy would now focus on the crucial agenda of social and economic reforms.

“We have tapped the expertise of economists from the University of the Philippines to draft the economic reform agenda of the government, which we will present on the negotiating table in Rome,” Bello revealed.

At least 2 days have been dedicated for discussions on social and economic reforms during the 5- day formal talks, which begin on January 19.(PR/posted by Redline News Philippines)

Thousands of illegal cut logs and logging machines seized by joint elements of military and police

Thousands of  hard wood seized by 15th Infantry Battalion and Sapad Police during their anti-logging operation last December 22, 2016.

SAPAD Lanao del Norte, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines) - The Bravo Company 15th Infantry Battalion under the leadership of 1Lt. Marlouie S. Dicen ,  and 2Lt. Fernando D. Oliveros  together with Sapad Municipal Police personnel’s headed by Police Inspector Rando  M/ Salvacion , Chief of Police was conducted simultaneous Inter-Agency Law Enforcement Operation against illegal logging activity at Sitio Caribang, Brgy Dansalan and Sitio Dau Brgy Baning all of Sapad of this province.

The joint team   proceeded  to the said area  and recovered  number of illegal cut logs  with high market value, and a machine use of illegal loggers. The team seized two (20 illegal saw mills allegedly owned by two (2) municipal councilor of Nunungan municipality.

This operation is to support the executive order no. 26 signed on 24 February 2011 and guidelines issued on 28 March 2011 launched on 13 May 2011 which is the National Greening Program and strictly implemented the EO #23 (Anti-Illegal Logging Campaign) in the area.

The said illegal cut logs and logging machineries  was already evaluated and turn over to CENRO Kolambugan headed by Mr Saidamen P Pala, Chief Utility officer and PENRO Tubod headed by Mr Omar Acmad, Forest Protection Officer staff of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Kolambugan,  PENRO Tubod all of LDN for proper documentation.(PR/Photo credited to Bravo Coy 15IB 3ID/with report by Mike Navarro/posted by Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News)

At least 18 hurts during X'mas eve blast in Midsayap

By: Becky D. de Asis

Cotabato City, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines) – At least 18 wounded during  Christmas eve  grenade blast outside the catholic church in Midsayap, North Cotabato said police.

Police Superintendent Bernard Tayong, Chief of police said  that the blast occured towards the  police car outside the church and wounding at least 18 churchgoer including one 1(1) police officer.

The blast occurred about 30 meters or (98 feet) away from the church entrance.

Superintendent Romeo Galgo, regional police spokesman said that the blast was caused by an unspecified explosives device, he confirmed.

The explosion damages the police car and a pickup truck parked nearby church, police added.

Sources from Midsayap Municipal Peace and Order Council said that the target of the grenade attack was a police car parked near the entrance of the church.

               

Investigators said two men riding a motorcycle together perpetrated the bombing.

The victims were;  SPO4 Johnny Caballero, Roger Pedrosa, Ronald Celis, Chesser Rosete, Jofer Asis, Arnel Silvano, Jenelyn Silvano, Ejimar Loquiz, Princess Capunday, Jessa Mae Banlawi, Little Joy Singco, Jonel Orquiola, Kent Steven Pacquiao, Arissen Bagot and Ronald Duga, and 2 unidentified.

The victims  were immediately rushed to different hospitals by responding policemen and barangay officials in Midsayap.

Malacañang statement said ,  the total number of the injured at 18. It said 3 of the injured were admitted to the Anecito T. Pesante Sr Memorial Hospital , while 2 are at the Cotabato Regional Medical Center and 1 is at the Southern Philippines Medical Center. The 12 others are outpatients.

"During the visit, the President personally handed over an envelope containing financial assistance to the 15 survivors present in the hospital," said Malacañang, without disclosing the amount of the aid.

"The Chief Executive also promised the survivors a full payment to the hospital and outpatient expenses," the Palace added. (By: Becky D. de Asis- The Redline News Philippines)

PH eyes lucrative global market for aerospace market

MAKATI CITY, Philippines (PIA/re-posted by The Redline News Philippines) -- The Philippines is eyeing to carve a niche of the lucrative global aerospace market as local industry players recently showcased their competitive edge at the Aeromart Exhibition in Toulouse, France recently.  

 The local aerospace industry’s participation in the global exhibition was made possible by the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI), in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Paris (PTIC-Paris) and the Aerospace Industry Association of the Philippines (AIAP).  

Aéromart Toulouse is an international aerospace business convention where representatives from the industry gather to network and promote new and emerging opportunities in the aerospace supply chains and production networks. For the 2016 edition, organizers reported that 2,300 participants attended the event, 75 percent of which are international, representing 45 countries. 

 Aeromart Toulouse served as the country’s follow up promotion event after the local players participation at the 2016 Singapore Air Show last February 2016. Participation in international events is one of the marketing strategies set in the Aerospace Industry Roadmap which is seen to further strengthen the competitiveness of the local aerospace players.

 Aside from participation in international exhibitions and events, the Philippines is also looking at the possibility of organizing an aerospace international event in the near future.  

Trade Undersecretary for Industry Development and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo said that the joint implementation of the Aerospace Industry Roadmap by the government and the private sector will further develop the Philippines’ capabilities in the key segments of aerospace namely parts manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and aviation trainings.  

“Our participation in the event further affirms the confidence and competitiveness of the local aerospace manufacturing and aviation industries.

These industries have charted significant growth and we see these maturing industries ready to compete in the global market,” he said.   

“The growth of the aerospace and aviation industry will mean more export earnings for the country and more quality jobs for Filipinos particularly for the country’s graduates of engineering and aviation-related courses.

We will take advantage of the event, and others of this nature, as an opportunity to create traction for our positioning to be the aerospace manufacturing hub for ASEAN,” he said.   

The Aerospace Industry Roadmap projects export revenues of up to $1.5 billion in the next 10 years.   During the event, the Philippine delegation conducted business meetings with various players of the global industry where the BOI presented the opportunities and strengths of the Philippine Aerospace Industry.   

DTI Undersecretary for Industry Promotion Nora Terrado said the joint participation of the government and the industry at the Aéromart aims to generate awareness for the growing Philippine aerospace industry. 

“Not many people realize that Philippine-based companies currently produce parts for major aerospace manufacturers like French company Airbus and US-based Boeing,” said Undersecretary Terrado.  

Mr. John Lee, President of the AIAP also added that apart from flight control actuation systems, galleys and equipment, interiors, fit out panel assemblies and others, the Philippines is also a preferred and emerging location for a number of MRO companies, both foreign and domestic.  

PTIC Paris Commercial Attaché Froilan Emil Pamintuan also noted that French companies are interested in working together with the industry for skills upgrade programs that will eventually make more local manufacturers AS9100 certified, which is a basic requirement among aerospace parts manufacturers. (BOI) 

Balikbayan box tax free up to P150,000

MANILA,Philippines (PIA/ re-posted by Redline News Philippines) -- A welcome news and fitting gift to the country’s Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) this holiday season: Starting December 25, balikbayan boxes with values not exceeding P150,000 will be exempted from paying duties and taxes.

The good news was announced by Bureau of Customs spokesperson Col. Neil Anthony Estrella at a press briefing in Malacañan Tuesday, Dec. 20.

Bureau of Customs Administrative Order 05-2016 lifts taxes on balikbayan boxes for qualified Filipinos while abroad, including Filipino citizens who are residing abroad and Filipinos who are holders of student, investors, and tourist visas.

To be covered by this ruling, balikbayan boxes shall contain personal and household effects only, and content should not be in commercial quantities or intended for sale.

Also, the availment of this privilege is limited to a maximum of three times per calendar year.

At the same press briefing, Estrella also announced the Bureau’s heightened alert against the smuggling of goods in the country.

“Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon has issued a memorandum to remind all officials and personnel to keep a tight watch on the entry of illegal finished firecrackers, fireworks, and other pyrotechnic devices in the country,” said Estrella.
 
The only exemption which is allowed by law is the importation of ingredients used in manufacturing fireworks.

Meanwhile, Estrella announced that the Bureau of Customs has already collected P19.947 billion which is 57% of the P35.116 billion assessed target for the last month of the year.

The Bureau expects to achieve a good revenue collection performance this month similar to November, when BOC exceeded its target revenue collection by more than P3 billion.

"Given this improvement, BOC is already at 93.3% of the P409 billion assessed target for the whole year,” said Estrella.

At the same press briefing, Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the President is very transparent when it comes to the state of his health.

“The President’s health is very transparent. You know, like people ask should we have a medical bulletin? But I think he’s so transparent about himself,” Abella said.

The  President’s Spokesperson also said that despite his hectic schedule and long working hours, the President is in good health. (PCO)

Marawi Celebrates National Climate Change

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Phillippines(The Redline News Philippines) - Climate Change Consciousness week was conducted by Maranao People Development Center, Inc (MARADECA) in partnership with Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Local Government of Bubong, Lanao del Sur.

The 2 day activity was conducted on November 28-29, 2016 at Municipal Gymnasium, Brgy. Montian, Bubong,Lanao del Sur. A total of 700 individuals have participated the said event.

The 1st day activity started with a parade (walk for green) and was participated by the DENR; MARADECA; BRAC Communities; People Organizations of Ompongan o mga Bae sa Ranao (OBAERA), Ompongan Taribasok sa Ranao (OTR) and Maranao Youth for Peace and Development (MYPD); Local Government Unit; and Barangay Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Bubong, Lanao del Sur.

Another activity was the opening program along with the environmental messages from the different stakeholders including: Local Government Unit, PENR, MARADECA, ULAMA, PILG, and PDRRMO. There is also a film showing and seminar on climate change in the afternoon.

On the 2nd day, an orientation and actual tree planting was conducted. This initiative is supported by CARITAS Australia.

Every one realized the effect and impact of climate change. PENRO Cosain Abbas emphasized the importance of symbiotic relationship between environment and the human. Both are benefiting and helping each other.

Human needs more trees in the forest for survival and the same with the environment. Aleem Talha Ampatua cited that protection of environment is also a faith.

The ABC president Al-Faisal Munder also shared about his initiatives on reforestation and expressed that cooperation with action is the utmost needed to prevent flooding and changing of climate in their municipality. (press release/posted by Becky D.de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)

Joint team of police, military, DENR recovered assrt. illegal cut logs in Lanao

 Sapad, Lanao del Norte, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines)- The Bravo Company 15th Infantry Battalion of 1Lt. Marlouie S. Dicen together with Municipal Police Station  personnel of Sapad headed by Police Inspector  Rando M. Salvacion  Acting Chief of Police,  CENRO Kolambugan headed by Mr Saidamen P Pala, Chief Utility and PENRO Tubod headed by Omar Acmad, Forest Protection Officer was  conducted the Inter-Agency Law Enforcement Operation against illegal logging at Brgy Katipunan, Sapad of the province.

The joint operation was conducted on December 21, 2016 at exactly 10:00 in the morning and its resulted to confiscation of hot logs in the forest of Purok 05,  Brgy Katipunan , Sapad.

The team recovered assorted cut logs of lawaan; Abacan; Apitong and Magcono Harwood who have a diameter range of 30-60cm

The personnel of Bravo Company, 15IB, 3ID, of Philippine Army and other government agencies show their eagerness in performing their duties and responsibility to stop these kind  of illegal activity of some loggers are still  continues cutting tress in different areas nationwide.

The said operation is to support the executive order no. 26 signed on 24 February 2011 and guidelines issued on 28 March 2011 launched on 13 May 2011 which is the National Greening Program and strictly implemented the EO #23 (Anti-Illegal Logging Campaign) in the area.

The  cut logs was already evaluated by the staff of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Kolambugan,  PENRO Tubod all in Lanao, Norte for proper documentation.(PR/Photo credited to Bravo Company 15IB/wuth report by Mike Navarro/.posted by Becky de Asis – The Redline News Philppines)

10 drug personalities arrested during buy-bust operation in Kapatagan, Lanao Norte

Kapatagan Lanao del Norte, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines) -  Drug  buy bust Operation  conducted in Kapatagan Lanao del Norte resulted to the arrest of 10 drug suspects.

The joint operation of PNP elements of PIB, LDN PPO/ PAID SOTG/ FUCOS team led P/Supt.  Henry B. Monta  and MPS/ SAID SOTG/ FUCOS team led by P/CInsp.  Malvin C. Loquinte  and Intelligence Operatives of 15IB led by SGT Fidel E. Galabo Jr and CPL Ronelo N Melca in coordination to PDEA 10 conducted Drug Buy-Bust operation against the number 09 and 13 priority target drug personality in  the municipality of Kapatagan of the said province.

Suspect identified as Jason Ison Cabigas  Alias Atoy , 32 years old, married, jobless, a resident of Purok 12 Villa Elena, Poblacion, Kapatagan, Lanao Del Norte and  Julius Bastistiana Fiel alias Julius,  50 years old, married, a resident of Purok Malinawon, Poblacion, Kapatagan of  same province.

Meanwhile, the team served a search of warrant to the suspects was witness by  Kapatagan Municipal Mayor  Barry Y Baguio, Barangay Officials of Poblacion, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte and media man, Ferdie E Fransisco.

In the presence of the same witnesses, the team  recovered and confiscated are one blue plastic tube labeled as NIPS containing 25 pcs folded aluminum foil strips, 12 pcs improvised elongated medicine vial used as pipe in sniffing shabu, one small transparent bottle with fuse, one forceps and 4 crumpled aluminum foils and P250.00 as marked money.

The police also recovered and confiscated from inside the house of the Julius are the buy bust money of 2 pieces 100 piso bills marked money two disposable lighters, 21 pcs used elongated aluminum foils, one small transparent plastic pack with 2 pcs medium size elongated transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance suspected as shabu 4 pcs small transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance suspected as shabu and 4 pcs folded aluminum foils, 1 pcs unsealed small plastic sachets with suspected shabu residue, 1 small plastic container labeled as Fresh breath paper mint containing 1 pc small transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance suspected as shabu, one aluminum foil used as needle in sniffing shabu, 1 improvised pipe used in sniffing shabu.

During  the operation there were eight other drug personalities present in the house of Julius who are sniffing shabu namely MARIO DEMAVIVAS y DILIALLANTE, 58 years old, married, ARTHUR TABILLA y NAVAREZ,  38 years old, single, JUNE ROEL RIZO y BASTISTIANA alyas KIDONG, 20, single jobless both residence of Purok Malinawon, Poblacion, Kapatagan, Lanao Del Norte, CHRIST EBO y ILIGAN, 33 years old, single a resident of Purok 3, Rebe, Lala, Lanao Del Norte, ERIC TOLEDO y CULINARES, 26 years old, married, a resident of Purok Magpapatigayon, Poblacion, Kapatagan, Lanao Del Norte, MAXIMO SABADOQUIA y REFORMA, 46 years old single, a resident of Tominobo, Iligan City, RYAN MACASARTE y RONULO, 33 years old, single, a resident of Purok 1, Sto Tomas, Kapatagan, Lanao Del Norte and PROCOPIO HESIM y BONAHOS, 50 years old, married and a resident of Purok 6, Butadon, Kapatagan, Lanao Del Norte. Inventory and markings were also done in the presence of the same witnesses and the arrested suspects.

The seized drug evidences and arrested drug suspects are subjected for Laboratory Examination and drug test examinations at Provincial Crime Laboratory, Camp Gallego, Pigcarangan, Tubod, Lanao Del Norte.

Arrested persons are now temporarily detained in this station for appropriate  charges in court.(PR/photo Credited from PNP Kapatagan/with report by Mike Navarro/posted by Becky D. de Asis-the Redline News Philippines)

Sulu Ist Engineering District received 7 Best Awards during the 26th year Annivesary of DPWH-ARMM - D.E Abdulmunir Hadjirul- Most Valiant Engineer of BaSulTa

by: Becky D. de Asis

Cotabato City, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines) – The department of Public Works and Highways of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao under Regional Secretary  Engr. Don  Mustapha Loong  give awards to those working engineer’s and employees of the regions in order to acknowledged   their efforts of fully implementing  the infra-projects of the government, even peace and order situation of their respective areas is not stable due  the presence of some terrorists or lawless elements in thearea both mainland and island provinces.

The Sulu province, Ist Engineering Districts under District Engineer Abdulmunir  I. Hadjirul received Seven (7) different awards  during the 26th year anniversary  earlier of the DPWH-ARMM  like; Best in Equipment Rehabilitation 2016 of Equipment services, Best in Management Excellence in SS 2016 for Basulta, Most Responsive district Engineer Office (DEO) in Administrative Management 2016, Most Valiant District Engineer for BaSulTa 2016, Best District Engineering Office for maintenance, Sustained Performance Excellence Award for BaSulTa and Best DEO in Financial Management for BaSulTa.

Secretary  Engineer Don Mustapha Loong said, that he made this awards in order to response the efforts of different district engineers with regards  the mandate of Governor Mujiv Hataman of the ARMM to finish and accomplish the infra-projects before the year end of 2016. “ I am very thankful to all working employees of the department of DPWH-ARMM to give priority and to respond the call or mandate of our President Rodrigo Duterte to give good services to the people more particular in war tone areas like the BaSulTa”, he said.

Recently, during the LGU-ARMM summit in Davao, the President urged the autonomous region to give priority about the infra-projects in order to uplift the living condition of the people of the area, more particular, Butig in Lanao, Sulu and Basilan most likely, the president said.

Therefore, Governor Mujiv Hataman and regional legislators recently  signed Public Works Act of 2017 on Thursday, December 15, that authorizes the appropriation of P10.1 billion for infrastructure projects in ARMM. The region’s Public Works and Highways department (DPWH-ARMM), through its district engineering offices, will implement the approved projects.

These cover construction of major roads and bridges, water supply, seaports, shores, drainage canal, flood control, strategic infrastructure projects in support of tourism, agriculture, peace and security, public health or sanitation, and other socio-economic development activities and those in conflict- or calamity-affected areas.

Loong said, that he is very optimistic to implement carefully this Multi-Billion projects in good faith in order to serve the people of the whole autonomous region, said the engineer. (by: Becky D. De Asis – The Redline News Philippines)

Gov’t open to amending Constitution for peace – Sec. Dureza

Manila, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines)- Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza says the government is open to amending or even rewriting the 1987 Constitution to address the root causes of armed rebel resistance to the government.

“If you really look up what they (rebels) aspire for, you have to open up our Constitution to be able to accommodate them. That is the reality,” Dureza said in his remarks during the recent Konsult Mindanao Peace Conference in Davao City participated in by Lumad, Muslim and Christian leaders from across Mindanao.

He noted that the existing Philippine Constitution has become a "stumbling block" in effectively negotiating peace with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines/Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (NDFP/CPP-NPA), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

“If you talk with the CPP and even the Bangsamoro (MILF, MNLF) they will never admit and agree that they will be circumscribed by a Constitution or by our laws,” Dureza said.

 He added that all agreements previously signed with the said major rebel forces made no reference to the Philippine Constitution.

“We always refer to international laws and protocols," he added. Dureza explained that, as government negotiators, they have to work within the “confines of the Constitution" in order to allow both parties to continue working on a final peace settlement despite their opposing views and ideologies.

The head of the government peace process however said the desire of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to shift from bicameral and presidential form of government to parliamentary and federal will require constitutional reforms

It could also open up to other reforms in response to the strong clamor of the president for a more inclusive economic development strategy and direction.

Dureza said the failure of Congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law can be attributed to some perceived unconstitutionality of some of the provisions of the proposed bill.

Instead of refilling an improved version of BBL, Dureza said the contentious provisions of the BBL could be included in a proposed new charter.

Amending or writing a new charter could also accelerate the peace negotiations with the NDF, Dureza further added.

The government peace panel is set to leave for Rome in Italy on January 18-25 for the third round of talks with the NDF.

Topping the agenda in the Rome round of talks are the social and economic reforms that the rebels are putting across the negotiating table.

Negotiators from both sides are also expected to tackle and agree on the mechanics and guidelines for a bilateral ceasefire agreement and political and constitutional reforms.

 Expand 'peace tables'

Meanwhile, Dureza underscored the need to further strengthen and expand the existing “peace tables” in order to make them more inclusive and ensure the success of the ongoing peace negotiations with various rebel groups.

Dureza pointed out that the peace or “negotiation tables” with the NDFP, MNLF and MILF are “very small tables as compared to the bigger peace table” which is the general public.

 “If you do not get the bigger public first to be informed of what is happening in the peace table[s], and if they don’t understand what we are doing, chances are they will reject what we agree on in [those] negotiations table,” Dureza added.

The two-day event peace conference organized by the Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC) and supported by OPAPP, aimed to, among others, revisit the recommendations made during the Mindanao-wide multisectoral BUC consultations in 2009 as inputs to the ongoing GPH peace negotiations and initiatives and expand a people’s platform for dialogue towards the understanding of historical and socio-political issues in Mindanao.(Press release/posted by Becky D. de Asis- The Redline News Philippines)

Engineer Abdulmunir Hadjirul recieve awards during 26th Anniversary of DPWH-ARMM

The most brave and valiant District Engineer in the whole Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao itcomes of implementation's of infrastructure projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways awardee is Engineer Abudulmunir I. Hadjirul of Sulu, Ist Engineering District (red-polo shirt),

While the other district engineer's also (looks on) coming from different districts, Lanao Sur, Maguindanao, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi are also awardee for their support and full implementation of some projects of the Autonomous Region under Governor Mujiv Hataman through Secretary Don Loong of DPWH-ARMM.

Secretary Don Loong said, that Engineer Abdulmunir Hadjirul of Sulu one of  his brave and valiant engineer  who implemented projects even his area is under military control or under state of lawlessness by the President Rodrigo Duterte just earlier because of the presence of Abussayaf /terrorists, he bravely fully implemented the projects without hesitations.

The most valiant award  recieved by  Engineer Abdulmunir Hadjirul  given last December 15, 2016  at DPWH Region during the 26th year anniversary of the said department. The said district also received more awards and citations. (by: Becky D. de Asis - The Redline News Philippines)

Cotabato Shariff Kabunsuan Festival Celebration ended successful - create global popularity

     by: Becky D. de Asis

Cotabato City, Philippines(The Redline News-) The  Sharif Kabunsuan Festival is very popular among foreign and local tourists who visit their families and relatives during this celebration.

Colorful festival in  celebrating the arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan via Rio Grande de Mindanao more than 500 years ago to introduce Islam to the natives and display of Muslim religion and culture which will be held from Dec. 15 to 19 every year.

It  is a very significant event in Cotabato City and people look forward to various activities lined-up for the week long festivity. The Events include cultural presentations,  cultural musical showdown, ethnic sports competition, cultural dances like kuyog, fluvial parade and many more cultural activities prepared by the city government. .

Fluvial parade along Rio Grande de Mindanao, the Kuyog Street Dancing Parade, the Guinakit and re-enactment of the arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan are among the highlights of the festival  then followed by Pagana sa Maguindanao or eat all you can or  traditional way of dining among maranao’s and Maguindanao’s in honor of special guests and visitors attended the celebration.

The most  highlight is the "Guinakit" accordingly which is the colorful fluvial parade of colorful decorated bancas along the City wharf of Cotabato City.

The City governemnt of Cotabato headed by Mayor Cynthia Guiani- Sayadi prepared a very bountiful Shariff Kabunsuan Celebration in the city. Because she looking forward the great traditions of their ancestral that made them a very popular city not only in local but also in global. The popularity of Cotabato Shariff Kabunsuan Festival, said ther lady mayor.

Embracing Tradition’s and culture it made them popular globally. (by"Becky D. de Asis -The Redline News)

Military, LGU conducted free operation tuli in Nunungan, Lanao, Norte

 
SAPAD, Lanao del Norte, Philippines (The Redline News Philippines) - Local Government of Nunungan municipality  and the Phil.Army conducted a free operation tuli in accordance of their medical mission to those less fortunate families in the said  municipality…

The Bravo Company  of 15th Infantry Battalion, 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division under the leadership of  1Lt.  Marloquie S. Decin (CE) of Philippine Army, Commanding Officer of Bravo Company, 15IB, 3ID, PA in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Nunungan, LDN headed by Mayor  Marcos Mamay and the Municipal Health Unit officer Mr Vic Stepphen Garcia  conducted free circumcision/operation tuli at Brgy Poblacion of the saaid municipality earlier (Dec.14, 2016)

The said activity was participated by atlest 51 brave youngsters from different barangays of Nunungan.

Despite the road is not passable, the group  pursue their mission to  support  the implementation of the government’s program by delivering of basic services to different far-flung areas of the said municipality.  

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According to Dr Albert Cainglet, of REACT Echo Group “through circumcision there are a lot of health benefits that helps to maintain good health, hygence, (especially for boys) and safe for bad bacteria that may cause Urinary Tract Infections”, he said.

The activity was successfully conducted  through the help and support of the MLGU and RHU of Nunungan, LDN in donating medicines, operating materials such surgical set, kidney basin, needle holder, tissue forceps, mosquito forces, surgical scissors, soaking basins, eyesheets, sutures, cotton balls, OS, syringe, liducaine, betadine, alcohol, pick-up forces, amoxicillin, mefenamic acid, soaking solution, gloves and water.(PR/photo credited Bravo company 15IB/Mike Navarro posted by Becky D. de Asis)

The Shariff Kabunsuan Festival gathered thousand tourists

City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi with City Tourism Officer Norianne Lou Frondoza and other officials cut the ribbon during the opening of Shariff Kabunsuan Festival of Cotabato City earlier (Dec.16, 2016).

The Shariff Kabunsuan Festival is one of the most celebrated occasions of Cotabato City. 

Accordingly, the festival conducted in honor of Shariff Muhammad Kabunsuan, a missionary springing from the native lands of Malaysia, who landed on the shores of this part of the country and propagated the religion of Islam to its native settlers.

Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi said, the activities during the celebration are to wit: the Kuyog Streetdancing and Showdown, the Grand Parade, Guinakit Fluvial Parade, and the Pagana and more activities being conducted by the city government, said the mayor.(posted by Becky D. de Asis-the Redline News Philippines)

Shariff Kabunsuan Festival 2016: a Celebration of Cultural Charm

City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi (center) with Cotabato  tourism officials. 

Cotabato City, Philippines - The 2016 Shariff Kabunsuan Festival in Cotabato City is expected to be more reflective of the city’s rich culture and colorful history with the grand activities that are now being prepared for the celebration.

The festival will officially kick off on December 15 with the launching of several activities. First is the Mini Guinakit Competition to be held at the People’s Palace grounds. 

In this activity, individuals and groups are invited to join and compete for the most decorative and most relevant guinakit. 

The guinakit is the local name for the boat in which Muslim missionary Shariff Muhammad Kabunsuan was on board when he docked on the shores of this part of Mindanao.

Next is the launching of the Bangala:BIMP-EAGA Exhibit.

This is one of the new activities of the festival and will be showcasing the different traditional dresses of the people of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Later on the same day, these costumes will be worn by local models in a fashion fair.

The celebration of the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival this year will be bigger than the previous years as it will also touch on the cultures of the ASEAN Region. It will jumpstart the commitment of Cotabato City to the ASEAN Integration in the coming years.

City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi said, it is timely that the theme of the festival has expanded to the culture and tradition of the other ASEAN countries because these nations are being considered by Cotabato City as its brothers in development.

“The BIMP-EAGA is very important for Cotabato City because we have already established a relationship with these countries back in the ancient times. Remember that our forefathers are of Malay blood and Shariff Kabunsuan himself is also a native of Malaysia”, Mayor Guiani-Sayadi said.

Not only with the traditional costumes will the festival include the BIMP-EAGA but the annual culinary competition will also feature the diverse flavors from these countries using local products that can be found in the markets in Cotabato City.

Another exhibit is the Heritage: Fabric Art and Culture Forum that will showcase the amazing and colorful textile of local Muslims.

Also for the first time, a festival bazaar will be conducted for the duration of the celebration which will feature products from local entrepreneurs. These products range from ready-to-wear items, fashion accessories, skin care products, pastries, and many more.

This year’s celebration will also feature a Business Forum that will not only concentrate on the actually products and industries that Cotabato city has to offer but will also emphasize the great potential of the city to become Mindanao’s next tourist destination. As discussed by City Administrator Dr. Danda N. Juanday during one of the meetings of the city’s department heads, Cotabato city has the potential to become a Tourism Ecozone.

City Tourism Officer Norianne Lou Frondoza also said that the Department of Tourism Region XII is very supportive of the tourism programs and projects of the city government. One of the most feasible projects that are seen by the department is the declaration of the Timaco Hill as an Eco-Tourism Destination where visitors and tourists can trek and explore the wildlife in this untouched forest by the bay.

Meanwhile, regular activities during the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival like the Kuyog Streetdancing and Showdown, the Grand Parade, Guinakit Fluvial Parade, and the Pagana will all be conducted this year.

The Shariff Kabunsuan Festival is one of the most celebrated occasions of Cotabato City. It is being conducted in honor of Shariff Muhammad Kabunsuan, a missionary springing from the native lands of Malaysia, who landed on the shores of this part of the country and propagated the religion of Islam to its native settlers.

Brothers Rajah Tabunaway and Rajah Mamalu, who were the reigning Datus during that time, were the ones who welcomed Shariff Kabunsuan to the land that is now Cotabato City. His arrival may have caused the separation of the brothers, it was later on discovered that they (the brothers) and Shariff Kabunsuan are of the same blood.

Today, the descendants of Rajah Tabunaway have already spread to different parts of Mindanao but most of them are still in Cotabato City and its nearby towns. The descendants of Rajah Mamalu are now the Indigenous Peoples or the “ Lumad”.

The celebration of Shariff Kabunsuan Festival is also one of the times where we see all of them together and united.

Cotabato City, despite being a melting pot of diverse cultures, religions, and tribes, is still flourishing because of the harmonious relationship that the Cotabateños continue to have with one another.

The Shariff Kabunsuan Festival will be commemorated on December 15-19, 2016.(PR/posted by Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News)

ARMM okays P10.1B worth of infra projects in 2017

Cotabato City, Philippines (The Redline News) – A total of P10.1 billion worth of infrastructure projects are expected to be implemented in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 2017. 

Governor Mujiv Hataman and regional legislators signed Public Works Act of 2017 on Thursday, December 15, that authorizes the appropriation of P10.1 billion for infrastructure projects in ARMM. The region’s Public Works and Highways department (DPWH-ARMM), through its district engineering offices, will implement the approved projects.

These cover construction of major roads and bridges, water supply, seaports, shores, drainage canal, flood control, strategic infrastructure projects in support of tourism, agriculture, peace and security, public health or sanitation, and other socio-economic development activities and those in conflict- or calamity-affected areas.

The appropriation will be effective even beyond Fiscal Year 2017 until fully released, obligated, and disbursed for the purpose. The infrastructure funds will be properly distributed to the five provinces and two cities in the region.

“We will make sure that all the provinces will receive development projects from the regional government,” Gov. Hataman said. DPWH-ARMM Secretary Engr. Don Mustapha Loong noted that the implementation of the projects will be undertaken through competitive public bidding.

To effectively oversee the projects, the Regional Project Monitoring Committee, inclusive of the legislative assembly members or representatives, will conduct periodic checking and validation of the status of project implementation based on the approved program of work, project specifications, and time frame of completion. (Bureau of Public Information/By JC-MPF/posted by Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News)

Sulu Engineer's and employee's join the 26th years anniversary of the DPWH-ARMM 2016

by: Becky D. de Asis

 District Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul of Sulu Ist Engineering District posed with posterity together of  his engineer's and employee's during the opening of  DPWH - ARMM 26th year's anniversary started yeasterday (Dec.14, 2016).

Cotabato City, Philippines (The Redline News) – The Engineers coming from different provinces of the Autonomous Region In Muslim Mindanao join the activities of the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional office  of the  2 – day activities in connection  the  26th years in progress (celebration) of the said department.

Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul of Sulu 1st Engineering District said, that even his district is very busy of  implementing  different projects of his area today because the national government wants speed up  and  finish the projects  before the year-end of 2016. 

He urged his employee’s  also to join this activities  of the region as part of  their  stress removal”, he vehemently added.

“We have to join the activity because we show our full support to our Regional Secretary Don Loong of his very supportive also to all district offices of the whole autonomous region”, said Hadjirul during the interview.

The 2 –day activities  are: the singing and dance contest both cultural and re-mix dances, basketball games and more activities that the whole employee’s enjoyed , said Hadjirul.

He added that maybe tonight (Dec.15) will be the awarding ceremony to  those winning groups and also awarding of the bests employee’s and districts, who works well  bravely and honest . (by: Becky D. de Asis - The Redline News)