Maguindanao guv lauds scholar for passing bar exams

BULUAN, Maguindanao -- Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu on Monday expressed pride and elation for a provincial government scholar who was among the 2017 Bar exams passers.

Faiza Gladys Karon-Tejero's success in passing the bar exams was an indication that the government's scholarship program has "paid off," Gov. Mangudadatu said.

Karon-Tejero, 28, was a scholar of the Maguindanao Program on Education Assistance and Community Empowerment (MagPEACE) that Magudadatu launched a decade ago.

Mangudadatu said he was elated after receiving a text message from Karon-Tejero, telling him: “Praise the Lord. Governor, may lawyer na po kayo (You now have a lawyer).”

MagPEACE is a program aimed at helping Maguindanao's poor but deserving students to have access to education and serve their province-mates after finishing college.

“Thank you very much for your help,” Karon-Tejero said in another message. She went out of her way to meet Mangudadatu in Davao City over the weekend to personally convey her gratitude.

She urged fellow Moro students to take education seriously as this is one of the means that will bring them out of the bondage of poverty.

Karon-Tejero graduated Bachelor of Laws at the Ateneo de Davao University as one of MagPEACE grantees. The program has more than 1,000 scholars, Mangudadatu said.

Aside from Karon-Tejero, Bai Apiyah Haron of Maguindanao also graduated medicine at Ateneo de Davao. She too is MagPEACE grantee and vowed to serve her province-mates once she passes the medicine board examination.

Mangudadatu said the Karon-Tejero's success should serve as inspiration for the province's youths to "prefer education than resort to violence."

He added: “I believe education will bring out Maguindanao from poverty and violence and I urge all my people to pursue education and keep the fire burning.” (PNA/By Edwin Fernandez/ re-posted by: Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)

Manhunt on vs. 'extremist' suspects behind Koronadal blast

KORONADAL CITY--Authorities have launched a manhunt against several personalities with alleged links to "extremist groups," in connection with the bomb explosion beside a Catholic church and the recovery of another improvised explosive here on Sunday.

City Mayor Peter Miguel said Monday investigators have already identified a group of suspects behind the 12:05 p.m. bomb blast at near the side entrance gate of the Christ the King Cathedral along Rizal Street that left two persons slightly injured.

Miguel said the group was also responsible for the foiled attack about two hours later at the 747 convenience store along General Santos Drive.

"The situation is quite clearer now and our investigators are pursuing some leads. Based on the initial findings, it was linked to extremists," he said in an interview over radio station dxKR here.

Miguel did not identify the group, noting that he will leave it to the police and military to do their work.

But he said investigators have already established the identities of at least "five members of the group," which is reportedly based outside the city.

In a press conference, Chief Supt. Marcelo Morales, Region 12 police director, said they are pursuing at least two possible motives in line with the attack.

Morales said it could be a diversionary move of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) due to the continuing intensive military operations in their territories in Maguindanao province.

The official said they are also looking at the incident as a possible retaliation for the series of law enforcement operations launched by the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office that netted several members of local terror groups.

Morales said investigators are currently determining the "signature" of the bomb used in the attack and the recovered explosive.

He said that based on the materials recovered by the South Cotabato police's explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) unit, the bomb was made of firecracker powder mixed with small nails and a mobile phone as triggering device.

The bomb that exploded was planted inside a bag left at a parked tricycle near the church's side entrance; while the second was found inside a plastic bag left at the garbage bin of the convenience store.

The recovered bomb was detonated by EOD personnel.

In both instances, police said witnesses have tagged an unidentified woman as the carrier of the explosive.

The South Cotabato police is currently reviewing footages of security cameras installed near the blast site and the convenience store for other possible leads.

Morales said they have placed the city and other key areas in Region 12 on full alert to avert similar attacks. (PNA/By Alejandro Saludo )

NYC prepares for the 9th ASEAN Senior Official's meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia

The National Youth Commission (NYC) is all set to represent the Filipino youth in the Ninth ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Youth (SOMY) and the Eighth ASEAN SOMY Plus Three meetings to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia on May 2-5, 2018.

In these meetings, the NYC will report on the outputs of the 2017 ASEAN youth activities hosted by the Commission, the outcome of the #NowASEAN Conference and the proposed 5th ASEAN-Russia Youth Summit in Manila this year. 

Among the ASEAN youth activities spearheaded by the NYC in 2017 under the Philippines' ASEAN Chairship are the following: Preparatory Meeting for the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with the Youth and the Interface proper, the ASEAN Youth Social Entrepreneurship Awards and Conference, the #NowASEAN Conference on Youth in Climate Action and the Declaration on the Adoption of the ASEAN Youth Development Index (AYDI) that was adopted by the ASEAN Leaders during the 31st ASEAN Summit in Manila last year. 

Aside from these meetings that will be attended by the representatives from the ASEAN Member States and from the ASEAN Dialogue partners (China, Japan and Korea), there will be an ASEAN Youth Expo where youth entrepreneurs will share their best practices.

PNP confirms abduction of 2 female cops in Sulu

MANILA -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is constantly monitoring developments on the abduction of two female police officers in Patikul, Sulu.

During Monday's press briefing, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Oscar Albayalde said they have yet to receive a comprehensive report on the incident.

Police Officer 2 Benierose Alvarez, Police Officer 1 Dinah Gumahad, along with two civilians, Jakosalem Ahamad Blas and Faizal Ahidji, were on board a tricycle outside Camp Bautista near the Jolo Airport on Sunday when they were intercepted by armed men.

Alvarez is detailed with the PNP-Crime Laboratory.

"Ang alam natin is yung isa taga (PNP) Crime Lab, tapos yung isa, kaibigan niya (What we know is one of the victims is from the PNP Crime Lab and the other one is her friend). Galing sila sa kampo ng AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) at nung pauwi at around 11 a.m yesterday (Sunday), doon sila in-abduct (They came from the AFP camp and they were abducted when around 11 a.m. yesterday when they were on the way home). As of now, wala pang (there is no) communication whatsoever, hindi pa sila ma-contact at wala pang kumokontak doon sa ating tropa sa lugar (they cannot be contacted and no contacts have been made with our troops in the area)," Albayalde said of the incident.

"As of this (morning), wala pa (no updates yet). The operations are still being conducted by our AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) doon sa area together with our regional mobile group," Albayalde said.

In recent months, local armed groups have started going after soft targets instead of high profile individuals. These soft targets are mostly skilled workers whose families are willing to pay ransom for their safe release. (PNA/By Benjamin Pulta/Re-posted by: Becky D. de Asis- The Redline News)

Social Media group conduct Seminar workshop in Davao.

Davao City - The social media group in Mindanao conducted seminar workshop in Davao City in order to enhance the capability to manage the online businesses and news-writing through social media last April 27-29, 2018 in Grand Regal Hotel.

The 3-days workshop  seminar was very successful  because  the speakers coming from different National entities trained social media members, writer, blogger on how to prepared to help any client to take advantage  of media interview opportunity and "own" the story.

The media and speaker training is the best way to maximize an interview or speaking opportunity and it has the added benefit of boosting confidence and helping to clarify thinking around  important messages, stories and issues around your respective areas.

Virgin Island’s ‘blatant degradation’ alarms Bohol execs

One of the stalls on Virgin Island in Bohol (Photo courtesy of the Bohol Enviroment Management Office)

TAGBILARAN CITY -- Garbage now litter the once unspoiled Virgin Island, prompting the Bohol provincial government to call on the local government unit (LGU) of Panglao to stop playing blind on its blatant degradation.

A team sent by Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto found out about the island's state during a site inspection on the existing seafood market on Virgin Island in Panglao on April 14.

The inspection team included acting Bohol Environment Management Office head Jovencia Ganub, Maria Villa Pelindingue of the Coastal Resource Management (CRM) unit, Melanie del Valle of the Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) unit of the provincial government, ESWM focal person Manuel Fudolin, some personnel from Panglao Bantay Dagat, and Process Foundation executive director Emilia Roslinda, representing the non-government organization or the civil society organization.

The inspection team presented its findings and recommendations during the board meeting of the Panglao Island and Tagbilaran Executive Council (PITEC) on April 26 at the People's Mansion in Tagbilaran City.

The team found that there were 11 food stalls installed with tables and chairs and portable stoves, while some used firewood to cook food ordered by the guests.

“Seafood served include fish (tuna, grouper, emperor fish), fresh shells like abalone and spider shells locally known as saang, squid, sea cucumber, sea urchin and seaweeds,” the inspection team reported.

Some vendors were also selling banana cue, fresh fruits, boiled eggs, soft drinks, water, and other beverages.

The inspection team also found poor garbage disposal practices as evidenced by garbage scattered on the sand.

“Garbage were placed on sacks and allegedly brought to the mainland for disposal. No segregation of waste is being practiced. Some vendors even throw the garbage on the sand,” the team also reported.

The inspection team also learned that some of the vendors do not have permits from the Panglao LGU, while others have failed to renew their permits.

“One of the vendors said that they have been in the area 10 years ago in the Isola de Francisco but when the claimant started developing his ‘titled’ island, they were ordered to vacate the area and decided to transfer to the sand bar,” according to the team’s report.

The team recommended that once the permits of vendors expire, the LGU should demolish all structures made of light materials on the island.

“The island should be free from any commercial activity, consistent with Presidential Proclamation No. 1801 declaring Panglao Island as Tourist Zone. The Virgin Island must be for recreational activities like swimming and snorkeling only,” the team recommended in its report to the PITEC.

The team also recommended that the municipal government of Panglao should also stop issuing and renewing vendors’ permits.

T

here was a recommendation that only legitimate vendors with permits should be allowed to sell in the area and they should be informed in advance that their permits would no longer be renewed.

However, this recommendation was considered by some PITEC board members as “a window to a loophole” and that there should strictly be no selling allowed on the island to preserve it from the impact of excessive human activities.

The team also recommended that the Panglao municipal government should assign its Bantay Dagat team to monitor the area, strictly implement proper garbage segregation and disposal, review the CRM plan and zoning ordinance on the designation and utilization of the area and implement the same and include the concern in the discussion between the Panglao Island Tourism Estate and the Review and Development Committee. (Angeline Valencia/PNA/re-posted by: Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)

P300-M China-Cotabato friendship school breaks ground

COTABATO CITY -- A PHP300-million China-Cotabato Friendship Technical School will soon rise in this city.

City government officials and representatives from the Chinese Engineering Construction Company (CECC) joined the school groundbreaking ceremony at Barangay Tamontaka Mother on Saturday.

The four-story school building, which would be constructed on a four-hectare lot, is a donation from the CECC firm that also plans to build an estimated PHP3.6-billion modern airport and seaport for the city.

Currently, the local government is awaiting the approval of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for the proposed seaport and airport projects, which would be undertaken under the public-private partnership scheme.

Once approved, the city’s modern seaport would be built at the seaside of Barangay Kalanganan 2 while the new airport would be constructed at a vast plain in Barangays Tamontaka 2 and 3.

“Thousands are expected to be employed as graduates from the technical school would be hired for the modern airport and seaport projects,” Mayor Frances Cynthia-Sayadi said.

For his part, Yi Bin Liu, head of the CECC group, expressed elation over the development partnership with the city.

The technical school project is expected to be completed by December this year. (PNA/By Noel Punzalan/re-posted by: Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)  

From terrorism to tourism - new diving spot open in Sulu

"There's nothing to be afraid of," I assured you "diving are great. You'll see so many wonderful and unusual things in underwater in this new diving spot in Sulu.

What a more years it's been — from the terrorism, headline-grabbing the encounter  between  the Abussayaf and the government., there were a lot of news stories that captured our attention. But because the Tausog;s  are business-minded, they shifted a terror to tourism.

Nowadays, we endulge the beauty of this wonderful resort of Sulu. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

NAVY DEPARTS FOR INDONESIA.

The Philippine Navy (PN) contingent of 300 officers and enlisted personnel board the BRP Gregorio del Pilar to depart for the Multilateral Naval Exercise KOMODO in Lombok, Indonesia during the send-off ceremony held at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila City on Friday (April 27, 2018). The exercise, which will be held from May 4-9, aims to enhance the relationship and cooperation among participating regional and non-regional navies in building common understanding about humanitarian assistance and disaster risk response operations. (PNA photo by Joey Razon/)

ARMM growing economy hinges on strong agri-sector

COTABATO CITY -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is relying on its strong agriculture sector for the region’s continuous growth, regional statistical records showed.

The Philippine Statistics Authority – ARMM (PSA-ARMM) said that out of 17 regions in the country, ARMM is the only region with a strong agricultural base, as the rest of the country thrives on predominantly services- and industrial-based regional economies.

“The ARMM is a persistent and predominantly agricultural region,” PSA-ARMM Director Razulden Mangelen told reporters here Wednesday.

She identified other sectors contributing to the region’s growth as those from the hunting, forestry, and fishing industries.

Latest PSA records showed that the ARMM posited 7.3 percent in 2017, a significant leap from the 0.4 percent gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth rate it registered in 2016.

“The ARMM's GRDP growth rate is the highest so far in the region’s history,” Mangelen said.

The agriculture, hunting, forestry, and fishing industries, aptly called AHFF, posted the highest contribution to ARMM’s economic growth, accounting for 4.3 percentage points out of the 7.3 percent GRDP growth of the region.

Both the agriculture and forestry subclass and the fishing subclass under the AHFF sector registered significant growth, with agriculture and forestry posting a growth of 8.7 percent in 2017 from negative 0.9 percent in 2016, and fishing with a growth of 4.5 percent from negative 8.7 percent in 2016.

“The ARMM is far from perfect, but the reforms we have institutionalized in the region have been crucial. Our sluggish economy in the past was never about lack of resources but of political will, which is why we have committed ourselves to making the ARMM bureaucracy work better for the people,” ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman also told reporters here.

He described the current PSA figures as “significant” considering that ARMM's farmers and fishermen remain among the poorest of the poor in the country as of 2015 based on PSA data released last year.

“We are glad to see that our efforts have led not only to unprecedented statistical growth but to actual growth that is felt by the Bangsamoro,” Hataman said.

ARMM ranks sixth in terms of economic growth for the year 2017, among the 17 regions in the country. (PNA/By Noel Punzalan/re-posted by Becky D. de Asis- The Redline News)

191 new Shari'ah lawyers take oath

MANILA -- A total of 191 new Shari'ah lawyers took their oath before the Supreme Court (SC) en banc at the En Banc Session Hall on Friday.

According to the SC Public Information Office, Rohanifah Abdul-Rahman emerged as topnotcher among the successful 191 out of 360 who took the special Bar examinations for the Shari'ah courts on January 21 and 28.

Abdul-Rahman got a rating of 90.4 percent followed by Abdulkarim Hadji Ibrahim Jr., with a rating of 89.35 percent; Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba (88.85 percent); Adly Umpa (88.8 percent); and Benyamen Salic (88.45 percent).

Rounding out the Top 10 were Mozifa Ibbin (88 percent); Nurhainie Abolais and Arvin Sirad, (both 87.9 percent); Nassem Sarangani (87.25 percent); Hisham Panganting (87.2 percent); and Rayhana Faisal (86.85 percent).

Shari'ah, the Muslim law, refers to all the ordinances and regulations governing Muslims as found principally in the Qur'an and the Hadith, according to Presidential Decree No. 1083, or the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Republic Act No. 6734, or the law establishing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), recognizes Shari'ah district and circuit courts and provides for the creation of Shari'ah appellate courts and tribal courts for indigenous communities in the ARMM.

These courts have jurisdiction over cases involving persons, family and property relations. (PNA/By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan/re-posted by: Becky D. de Asis-Redline News)

Tawi -Tawi PNP Provincial Director relieved from post after hitting politician

By: Becky D. de Asis

Bongao, Tawi -Tawi - Police Senior Superintendent Jerich Royales relieved  from post last April 6, 2018 for  after hitting  a politician who did not favor him  for  implementing  the  Anti-Drugs campaign, terrorism, extortion and the Internal Cleansing program  against  co-policemen who involved  in some unscrupulous  activities in their  respective municipalities.

P/SSupt. Jerich Royales was served as  provincial director  of Tawi -Tawi for more than a year. He responded the call  of duty  from the higher headquarter regarding the Double Baril  program and Oplan Tokhang were resulted  a hundreds of firearms recovered and drug personalities  was  jailed.

Royales ,  one of  the provincial director who did his best by resolving the long time problem of the province, the "human traficking activities" which is resulted also to caught on the act  of some suspected  personalities and some victims in Bongao port with the coordination of the  Philippine Coast Guard and concern agencies last year.

He implemented also a total internal cleansing within his PNP personnel in order to  respond the call of the higher headquarter.

" I did my best what is good for the sake of the people here, I don't know, why my alleged PNP men in some coastal areas did not want me, to do my job, to cleansed them instead, I thought this is the best way  to have a good services for the people of Tawi-Tawi but sad to say they still in the shadow  of some politicians", Royales said.

I hope that the next provincial director assigned must give his best to continue the governments programs and activities by new PNP Chief, focused on "total PNP Cleansing" in the province. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

The magnificent Blue Mosque

The magnificent Blue Mosque in Afghanistan's Mazar-i-Sharif city. Around 300 people visit the mosque daily (Xinhua)

BALIK BARIL PROGRAM

President Rodrigo R. Duterte chats with Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu as they inspect the firearms laid down by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) surrenderers during the launching of the Maguindanao Balik-Baril Program at the Buluan Municipal Gymnasium in Maguindanao on April 25, 2018. 

Also in the photo are Philippine National Police Director General Oscar Albayalde, Department of the Interior and Local Government Officer-in-Charge Eduardo Año, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Sec. Bong Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Governor Mujiv Hataman. (Toto Lozano/Presidential Photo) 

Surrender of firearms in Maguindanao to snowball with PRRD visit

Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu answers media queries on Balik Baril program launching in the province that was attended on Wednesday (April 25) by President Rodrigo Duterte. (Photo by PMCO)

BULUAN, Maguindanao -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s visit to Maguindanao on Wednesday would surely boost the government’s Balik Baril program in the province, Governor Esmael Mangudadatu said.

While here, the President looked over and inspected some of the 900 loose firearms surrendered by civilians across the province in the past three months and presented at the jampacked town gymnasium during the launch of the disarmament program on Wednesday.

In exchange for the firearms, the President and the governor awarded, in symbolic rites, livelihood assistance packages to families of surrendered rebels in partnership with the provincial police and civilian authorities.

“Possession of guns only heightens the ego of holders and increases their propensity to harm or dominate non-affluent people or groups. In most cases, gun possession leads to loss of life or limb,” Mangudadatu told reporters shortly after the President left for another commitment in General Santos City on Wednesday evening.

The governor thus urged the youth to embrace the value of education and avail of the province’s scholarship 

program instead of treading the violent life of a rebel.

“The pen of a scholar is mightier than the sword (gun) of a martyr,” he said, citing the popular adage of the Prophet Mohammad in the Quran, and adding his own perception that “pens enlighten while guns hurt and provoke hatred.” (PNA/By Noel Punzalan)

WAR VS. ILLEGAL DRUGS.

High powered firearms, tactical modular type vests, mobile armor rifle and protective/ballistic shields (level IV), and IT equipment are on display at the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) office in Quezon City on Wednesday (April 25, 2018). The equipment will boost the capability of the agency's operating units in fighting the drug problem in different regions nationwide. (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

P1.4-B biomass plant to rise in Bukidnon

MALAYBALAY CITY -- Preparation is underway for a P1.4 billion proposed 12MW biomass power plant to be constructed at Purok 2, Dicklum in Manolo Fortich town in Bukidnon.

The biomass power plant is proposed by Green Acres Development Energy Corp. (GAREC), whose business office is in Manolo Fortich.

 “The plant will be located on a two-hectare property purchased from the Quiño Family and it is adjacent to the defunct BRCI in Manolo Fortich,” said Deither Hoff Arellano, project development manager.

So far, Arellano said they have no power supply agreement with any power distribution utility.

“We will dispose of the energy to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM),” he said.

WESM is a venue where electricity made by power-producing companies are centrally coordinated and traded like any other commodity and prices are driven by the law of supply and demand.

 “Though we will be producing 12MW of power, we will only dispose of to the WESM the 10.2MW because we will be using the remaining power in our plant,” Arellano said.

 He said they will use Napier or king grass as the primary fuel of the power plant, citing a successful biomass plant in Honduras using Napier as one of the sources of fuels.

Arellano said 60 percent of the company is owned by a Filipino family and the 40 percent by a Chinese partner.

He said the project could generate employment and income to the barangay and the local government unit. The company is also obliged to observe its corporate social responsibility to the host locality.

He said they have already contracted 600 hectares of land to be planted with Napier for use of the plant.

 He said the barangay council of Dickilum and the Sangguniang Bayan of Manolo Fortich have passed resolutions endorsing the project.

Arellano appeared before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan last week to seek endorsement for the project. (Mel B. Madera/PNA/re-posted by: Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)

NYC to Youth voters: Get to know your candidates

Check their background, get to know their track record and listen to their campaign platform. These are the important points to consider when casting ballots for the forthcoming synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on May 14, 2018. 

"We look forward to installing youth leaders who possess the commitment, dedication and passion to serve the youth sector," ASec Ronald Cardema, OIC Chairman of the National Youth Commission said. 

For several years, there has been a vacuum in local youth governance because the SK elections have been postponed. 

"With the passage of the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015 or Republic Act 10742, we want to develop and strengthen the youth's leadership capability through the mandatory training that they need to undergo once they are elected. And also instilling in them that strong sense of nationalism, discipline, and sense of preparedness for disasters and to safekeep their communities’’,

Cardema emphasized. It is also important to note that for youth voters who are between 15-17 years old, they will only fill out one ballot intended for the SK. 

On the other hand, those voters who are between 18-30 years old need to fill out two ballots that is in black ink color for the barangay and red ink color for the SK. 

The youth voters who are between 15-30 years old will vote for the barangay and SK candidates.

Usec Emil Sadain met Guv Rash Matba of Tawi-Tawi for Mega Bridge project Implementation

Engineer Besoud A. Ajihil (left) with USec Emil Sadain (center) and Governor Rashidin Matba (right)

Bongao, Tawi-Tawi - Under-Secretary Emil Sadain of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) National Office visit the provincial officials of this province in order to implement the Multi-Million Mega Bridge project here.

The Mega Bridge project was initiated by Governor Rashidin Matba with Provincial Engineer Bensuod Ajihil in order to cater a thousands of commuters coming from different municipalities of the said province.

According to Engineer Ajihil, the construction of the said Multi-Million Mega Bridge project will start at first quarter of 2019 and more flagship projects to be implemented soon.

"This project will be my accomplishment and to give importance the needs of my constituents,  an easy way to reach their destination", said the governor. (By: Becky D. de Asis/Redline News)

Marines to showcase Sulu artworks in exhibit

MANILA -- In a bid to show that there is more to Sulu than conflicts, the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) in partnership with various stakeholders will conduct its "Huminang" art exhibit at SM Aura Atrium and Metro Gallery on Thursday and on May 12, respectively.

The art exhibit will feature 60 works from school children of Sulu, Marine troops and 13 Mindanaoan visual artists, PMC spokesperson Capt. Rowena Dalmacio said.

Supporting this endeavor are the PMC's Marine Battalion Landing Team-1, the local government of Sulu, Sulu Tourism Office, Joint Task Force Sulu, SM Cares, SM Aura and Go Negosyo.

"Huminang" is a Tausug word which means "to create," Dalmacio added.

Funds raised by the art exhibit will help Joint Task Force Sulu's campaign to stop terrorism and promote tourism instead. (By Priam Nepomuceno /With reports from Ericka Cirera, OJT/PNA/re-post by Becky de Asis- The Reldline News PH))

2 'kotong cops' nabbed in Pasay

KOTONG COPS' NABBED. PNP Counter Intelligence Task Force (PNP-CITF) operatives arrest  PO2 Jerry Adjani Jubail and PO1 Michael Mindevil Domalanta in an entrapment operation where they were caught in the act receiving marked money from bus and van drivers in an illegal terminal in Pasay City on Tuesday (April 24, 2018). (Photo courtesy: Leo Sarne, Radyo Pilipinas)

MANILA -- Operatives of the Philippine National Police’s Counter Intelligence Task Force (PNP-CITF) on Tuesday arrested two policemen involved in extorting money from van and bus drivers in an illegal terminal in Pasay City.

CITF chief, Senior Supt. Chiquito Malayo, identified the two suspects as PO2 Jerry Adjani Jubail and PO1 Michael Mindevil Domalanta.

The duo were arrested in an entrapment operation and were caught in the act of receiving marked money in Dela Cruz St., Malibay, Pasay City.

Complainants said the two collect anywhere between PHP300 and PHP500 from bus and van drivers to allow them to pick up passengers at the illegal terminal.

The two are under the custody of the CITF in Camp Crame, awaiting inquest proceedings for the filing of formal charges.

National Capital Regional Police Office chief, Director Camilo Cascolan, earlier said wayward policemen will not be reassigned to new units and will automatically face charges. (PNA/By Benjamin Pulta/ re-posted by Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News Philippines)  

4 more Maguindanao towns yield loose firearms

SURRENDERED. The 59 loose firearms yielded by the towns of Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, and Guindulungan.  Residents of Datu Saudi Ampatuan town also surrendered another 17 unlicensed firearms during separate turnover rites on Tuesday in Maguindanao. (Photo by 6ID)

CAM

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – More unlicensed guns in the hands of civilians in Maguindanao were turned over to the military in support to the government’s disarmament program, the Army here said.

On Tuesday, a total of 76 unlicensed firearms were turned over in separate ceremonies by the town mayors of Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, Guindulungan and Datu Saudi Ampatuan of Maguindanao, according to Capt. Arvin John Encinas, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesperson.

Three of the four mayors, namely Datu Anggal Midtimbang Mayor Nathaniel Midtimbang, Talayan Mayor Datu Tungkang Midtimbang, and Guindulungan Mayor Datu Midpantao Midtimbang, have turned over 59 assorted firearms to the military’s 90th Infantry Battalion (IB) in ceremonies held at the Talayan Municipal Hall.

The surrendered war materials included mortar launchers, mortar ammunition, .50 Barrett sniper rifles, grenade launchers, Garand and M16 rifles.

“The surrender of loose firearms of the three municipalities are through the concerted efforts of the “Kapamagayon” Inter-agency Task Force, a unit collaboration of the local government units of Mother Kabuntalan, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Talayan, Talitay, and Guindulungan as a mechanism of peace and development within the clustered municipalities under the supervision of 90th IB,” Major Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, 6th ID chief, said.

Encinas said Mayor Bai Anida Dimaukom of Datu Saudi Ampatuan town, has also surrendered 17 loose firearms to the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and 57th Infantry Battalion in the area.

The firearms were collected from civilian residents of Barangays of Gawang, Kitango, Kitapok, Madia, Kabengi and Salbu.

Brig. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, 601st Infantry Brigade commander, formally received the firearms in a ceremony held at the Datu Saudi Ampatuan municipal hall.

Dela Vega said he was glad the “Balik Baril “ program of the government being implemented in Mindanao where Martial Law is in effect has gained the support of local officials.

To date, local officials and residents surrendered a total of 740 firearms within the 6ID area of responsibility. (PNA/By Noel Punzalan and Edwin Fernandez )

Maguindanao leaders surrender more loose arms ahead of PRRD visit

PRES. QUIRINO, Sultan Kudarat -- More high-powered weapons were turned over by local government officials of nearby Maguindanao province during simple ceremonies attended by military and civilian leaders Tuesday, on the eve of President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s visit to the area to accept all surrendered guns.

Mayor Zihan Mamalinta-Mangudadatu of Pandag town spearheaded the turnover of 18 high-caliber weapons a day before Duterte's visit to Buluan, Maguindanao.

Among the weapons handed over to Brig. Gen. Bismarck Soliba, commander of the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, were six M14 rifles, two 5.56-mm. M653 Rifles, three Garand rifles, two M79 grenade launchers, one Caliber 30 machinegun, one rocket-propelled grenade launcher, and one Carbine rifle.

In a separate ceremony in Mangudadatu town, also on Tuesday, Mayor Freddie Mangudadatu handed over 14 high-powered weapons, consisting of six M14 rifles, two M653 rifles, four M79 grenade launchers, one Carbine rifle, and one home-made Cal. 50 Barrett sniper rifle.

“I would like to acknowledge the cooperation of my barangay captains for helping me convince people to voluntarily surrender weapons in the name of peace,” Mangudadatu said. “We will always support our national government in its campaign to eliminate lawlessness and violence that are caused by deadly weapons."

Regional Assemblyman Khadafeh Mangudadatu was among the lawmakers who supported the government’s campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms.

“I had witnessed the disastrous effects of violence during the times that thousands of illegal firearms circulated in various communities around the province. We can only display the semblance of peace when illegal firearms are replaced with implements for farms,” he said.

Earlier, Lt. Col Harold Cabunoc, commanding officer of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, repeatedly encouraged all local chief executives in his area of jurisdiction to support the government’s peace and development campaign. His call was welcomed by local officials.

“We must collaborate in hindering the spread of illegal firearms in Central Mindanao. We will always support the local government in keeping the peace so that you can maximize the delivery of services to the people,” Cabunoc said.

Duterte is scheduled to visit Buluan at 3 p.m. Wednesday where local military and provincial officials, to be led by Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu, who would present to him the nearly 500 loose firearms collected since the implementation of martial law in Mindanao. (PNA/By Edwin Fernandez /re-posted by Becky D. de Asis-Redline News Philippines)

AFP chief to expedite modernization program

MANILA -- Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez vowed to expedite the processing of contracts relating to the AFP Modernization Program.

However, he assured the public that such matters will be done deliberately and prudently.

"The President is pushing us to make our modernization move forward. We need to choose people who can deliver results for our modernization,” Galvez said in a statement Tuesday.

The AFP Modernization Program is divided into three horizons, with the first lasting from 2013 to 2017, the second from 2018 to 2022 and third 2023 to 2028.

The Second Horizon calls for the acquisition of equipment more attuned to external defense missions.

The new AFP chief also promised to work hands-on and without delay.

He announced that he will not impose any “cut off time” in sending documents to him that needs to be acted upon-even past office hours.

"I am results-oriented. We must be outputs-oriented as we value teamwork and meritocracy. Be righteous. Be perfect, because any mistake may mean the lives of the people we have sworn to serve and protect; and the lives of our very own soldiers," the newly-appointed AFP chief added.

“We need the cooperation of everyone--Officers, Enlisted Personnel, and Civilian Employees--in translating the intent of the AFP into tangible realities,” he pointed out. (By Priam Nepomuceno /With reports from Ericka Cirera, OJT/PNA)

Israel bids to lure more Filipino tourists

MANILA -- With a growing number of tourist arrivals on both sides, an official of Israel’s Ministry of Tourism on Tuesday expressed their intent to increase Filipino visitors to the Holy Land this year.

"We are trying to do as much activities as we can, like B2B (business-to-business) activities, to showcase Israel," said Hassan Madah, the ministry’s director for India and the Philippines.

Some 23,500 Filipinos visited Israel in 2017, marking a 61 percent increase from 14,600 in 2016, which Madah attributed to Filipinos’ increasing awareness of Israel’s tourist destinations, as well as more affordable tickets to the country.

Given these factors, it is now a good time to establish direct flights between Manila and Tel Aviv, he said.

"If we have an airline flying from Philippines or from Israel, or if we have a direct flight, that will boost tourism both ways," Madah said, adding that he has already met with officials of the Philippine Airlines to see how they could open direct flights to Israel.

The two parties are eyeing to establish these flights by the end of the year or early 2019.

"This way, we have Israelis coming to the Philippines to visit and we have Filipinos going to Israel in cheaper rates and in the fastest way," he said. "This way, we partner with the tourism industry in the Philippines."

The Israeli Embassy in Manila held a tourism road show on Tuesday to help Israeli companies explore tourism partnerships with about 120 Filipino stakeholders.

Madah said this is the first time for them to conduct the road show on a big scale, with more than a hundred businessmen talking about integrating tourism packages and deals.

"We have decided that it (Philippines) is a good market for Israel," he said. "We see that this is a business opportunity, to boost the tourism for both countries. I think it's also connecting nations."

Israeli Ambassador to Manila Effie Ben Matityau, who was also present at the event, shared how tourism is shaping the bilateral relations of Israel and the Philippines.

"When I came here, I realized how significant and how fundamental can be the issue of tourism in the relationship between Israel and Philippines," he said.

In February, Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo and her Israeli counterpart, Tourism Minister Yariv Levin, met during the 24th International Mediterranean Tourism Market and discussed ways to promote two-way tourism.

Israeli tourist arrivals to the Philippines grew by 98 percent from a mere 8,776 in 2014 to 17,446 in 2017.

With the Philippines already reaching 6.6 million in 2017, Teo said "Israel is a growing tourism market for the Philippines in the Middle East.” (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora /With reports from Eleazar Batalla, OJT/PNA)

Cops keep close eye on 9 Kidapawan villages for polls

KIDAPAWAN CITY – The police is monitoring nine villages here as areas of concern for the upcoming May 14 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) polls.

“Areas of concern means violence is likely to occur in these villages,” Supt. Ramel Hojilla, Kidapawan City police director, said.

He said part of the police preparation for the coming May 14 elections is to ensure voters can vote without intimidation or harassment from election stakeholders.

“We continue to conduct validation and assessment on a daily basis with the help of the military,” Hojilla said of the nine villages, where the presence of communist New Peoples’ Army (NPA) has been noted since the last election.

These areas, Hojilla said, are still considered areas of concern and if the peace and order situation worsens “we may place the villages under areas of immediate concern.”

He declined to name the nine villages that remain under the “police’ radar.”

Lawyer Duque Kadatuan, North Cotabato election supervisor, said the final list of candidates for village and youth elections has yet to be determined since the certificates of candidacy (COC) have been forwarded to 

Manila Comelec office for further verification and confirmation.

Once these COCs are returned to the province, it will only be then that the final list of candidates will be 

known, Kadatuan said in a radio interview Tuesday.

Earlier, the Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion has said that the NPAs in North Cotabato have started demanding for campaign fee as part of its fundraising drive.

Hojilla also said that all candidates in the city’s 40 villages have vowed not to use violence before, during and after elections.

He also appealed to candidates not to give anything to the NPAs.

The candidates who filed their COCs, numbering to 1,244 for various elective positions, signed a peace covenant they will abide by the laws on election and would not resort to violence.

Of the total number, 790 are seeking elective posts in the barangays while 454 are seeking posts in the SK council.

During the pact signing, the city Comelec chief reminded the candidates that the campaign period will start on May 4 yet until May 12.

The peace covenant includes candidates’ readiness to accept defeat and that they will help for peaceful and orderly elections. (PNA/By Edwin Fernandez)  

5,000 Quality and sustainable housing projects of Sulu about to finish - Hadjirul

Jolo, Sulu - The Department of Public Works and Highways of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DPWH-ARMM) under Secretary Mustapha "Don" Loong together with District Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul finding a better solution about the housing problem in Sulu people because of growing population and massive terrorists attack in some areas  would  creates people homeless.

District Engineer Abdulmunir I. Hadjirul said that his district were build a quality and sustainable housing project in order to give a good services, wherein the DPWH mandated to build the future of the people here, especially those coastal areas needs the help of the government, said Hadjirul.

The 1st District of Sulu develop more or less 5,000 quality houses in some barangay of the said province  more particular in Barangay Bitih under the housing program of Governor Mujiv Hataman.

The said housing projects  were equipped with solar electricity, water system and other facilities that would cater the needs of residents here according to Hadjirul. (By: Becky D. de Asis)

Northern Kabuntalan execs surrender loose guns

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The local leaders of North Kabuntalan town in the Province of Maguindanao surrendered a total of 22 unregistered firearms in a turn-over ceremony held at Headquarters 34th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Salunayan, Midsayap, North Cotabato Friday. 

The weapons were handed over by North Kabuntalan Mayor Mary Jane Bayam to Commanding Officer 34th Infantry Battalion, Lt. Colonel Angelo Z Lutera in the presence of Police Chief Inspector Barlowe Espiga, Civil Relation Officer, and Chief of Police Northern Kabuntalan Municipal Police Station Police Senior Inspector Solaiman Bakal.

Mayor Bayam is very optimistic on the response of her constituents to support the campaign of the government against proliferation of loose firearms as this will bring peace to the municipality.

Maj. Gen. Arnel B. Dela Vega, 6th Infantry Division commander, was delighted that the municipality of North Kabuntalan has done its part to contribute in the increasing number of surrendered firearms in the area of 6th ID.

A total of 639 firearms were recovered and surrendered to 6th ID as of today. (Source:NDBC-News)

Another Maguindanao town responds to PRRDs call to surrender loose guns

TALITAY, Maguindanao -- Another symbolic ceremony of “Balik Baril Program” happened at the municipal hall of Talitay, Maguindanao yesterday, around 9:00am of 21 April 2018, in response to the call of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to surrender loose firearms.  

Municipal Mayor Abdulwahab M. Sabal, Al-Haj, handed over Twenty Five(25) different types of weapons and ammunitions to 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, Philippine Army (6ID) Assitant Division Commander and Chairman of the GPH CCCH, Brigadier General Cirilo Thomas Donato, and to the Commanding Officer of the 90th Infantry (Bigkis Lahi) Battalion Lt. Col. Crisaldo Fernandez.

The surrender of loose firearms is a concerted effort of the 603rd Infantry Brigade thru the 90IB, and the Local Government Unit headed by Mayor Sabal, Vice Mayor Kamid Buisan, the barangay officials and the peace loving communities of Talitay. The surrendered unlicensed armaments are now in custody of the 90IB for safekeeping.

“I am glad that you are here to witness the Balik Baril Program of Duterte’s government. This is not only the program of Talitay but of the whole nation. We are in support of this program because we shun violence and extremism. We also support other government’s programs in order to get rid of illegal drugs and terrorism,” Sabal said.

“We have three issues here in Talitay: one is the proliferation of loose firearms that is why through the efforts of our Barangay officials we have this Balik Baril Program and secondly is the issue on illegal drugs,” Fernandez said.

“The third one is the forthcoming Barangay Election. In 2016, somebody died here in Talitay,” he said, appealing to the local residents “to refrain from firing your guns.”

“I pose this challenge to you with my gratitude in responding to this Balik Baril program,” Fernandez stressed.

Brig. Gen Donato Jr. said: “as Chairman of the GPH CCCH, I have observed that there is a big concern in terms of our security, due to a large number of private armed groups and of course the proliferation of loose firearms.”

“As your 6ID Assistant Division Chief, I believe that we will be able attain peace if we work together. This Balik Baril program is only one of the many steps that we have to take to have a peaceful Talitay. My sincere congratulations to the people of Talitay headed by your chief executive for having this kind of ceremony,” Donato said.

The president of the League of Mayors in Maguindanao, Mayor Freddie G. Mangundadatu, who also graced the ceremony said, “When I was campaigning here, I can only see swamps all over and only a handful of houses around this town. Now, I am happy that there are already cemented roads and other developments. More development is coming in this town of Talitay.”

Jomar Ongkowa, a local resident of Brgy. Mangay, Talitay, has this to say. “This Balik Baril is the onset of realizing peace here in Talitay. This is a good program that will reduce the number of lawless elements for it will also diminish the bringing of arms around this town.

“Our humble contribution in achieving peace is by reporting to the authorities those who are illegally handling weapons of war,” Ongkowa added.

In relation to the on-going campaign against loose firearms, the 6ID and the Joint Task Force Central Commander, Maj. General Arnel B. Dela Vega earlier said, “Your Police and Military are the only ones who are allowed to carry armaments as mandated to keep the peace in Central Mindanao. Your involvement to attain a long and lasting peace is by laying down your arms and follows the rule of law.

“This concerted efforts of Talitay local leaders in support to the Balik Baril program of Pres. Duterte, is an expression that you yourselves want to have peace in your area. So let us all together work on it,” Gen. Dela Vega said.

The ceremony was also witnessed by Senior Supt. Edwin BC Wagan, Provincial Police Director of Maguindanao, Maj. Abulbasser P. Adio of 6th CMO (Kasangga) Battalion and Atty. Haron Meling, a former administrator and now a consultant of Talitay, who as well acted as the Master of Ceremony.

Also in attendance during the activity were; Omar Bayao, MILF CCCH Representative; P/INSP Gerodiaz, COP Talitay and Mayor Marop Ampatuan of Shariff Aguak.

For his closing remarks the ABC President Ambel A. Guimadel said: “We are sincerely thankful for your attendance in our humble municipality. This Balik Baril program is a means to finally put an end to all mayhem especially in this town of Talitay.” (By Andy O./6th CMO/posted by Becky D. de Asis-Redline News PH)