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BARMM’s 2018 GRDP 2nd highest in Mindanao
- Source: https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/05/barmms-2018-grdp-2nd-highest-in-mindanao/
- Thursday, May 16, 2019
- By Antonio L. Colina IV (MindaNews)
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews) – The gross regional domestic product of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) of 7.2% in 2018, the second strongest next to Davao Region’s 8.6%, suggests better economic opportunities for the region under the new governance structure, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) deputy executive director Romeo Montenegro said on last Friday.
“The relatively high economic growth rate demonstrated by the Bangsamoro is an indication of better things to come in the region especially with a new governance structure,” he said.
The successful and peaceful transition from ARMM to BARMM after the ratification of Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OLBARMM) would increase investors’ interest for the region, Montenegro said.
“These are very interesting things to watch out for in the Bangsamoro in the next few years,” he said.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the BARMM’s output, although lower compared with the 7.5% registered in 2017, was the fourth highest in the country. Bicol registered the highest at 8.9% while Caraga the lowest at 3.2%.
Montenegro said Mindanao’s output expanded by 7.1% in 2018, surpassing the national average of 6.2%. Services, agriculture, and industry sectors ramped up Mindanao’s growth, he noted.
He said agriculture performed well in 2018, growing by 2.5% in 2018 from 0.9% in 2017.
“This is what we’ve always been pointing out that every time there is an instance in Mindanao where agriculture is able to demonstrate an uptick rate or growth it generally pushed up Mindanao’s overall economy because remember, 40% of Mindanao’s contributions is related to agriculture, 60% of Mindanao’s GDP is related to agriculture,” he said.
Montenegro acknowledged the need to pour in more infrastructure projects in Caraga to drive the growth of the region.
BTA chief: New admin to work for ill-free gov’t
- Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019644
- Wednesday, March 13, 2019
- (PIA Cotabato City)
COTABATO CITY (PIA) -- The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) headed by Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairperson Al Haj Murad Ebrahim as interim chief minister assured that the newly-established Bangsamoro government will be free from “ills of governance.”
The statement was made Tuesday (Feb 26) during the turnover of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to the Bangasamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
"We will also take oath to Allah over the Quran, this is to ensure to you that we will work for a government that will really be free of all the ills of governance," Murad said.
Murad was recently appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte along with the 80 members of the BTA, taking their oath at a ceremony in Malacañang, days before the turnover.
In his acceptance speech, Murad underscored the incoming government's agenda that will focus on health, education, economic development, strategic infrastructure, and moral leadership.
"Our government shall take responsibility for the education of our children. Our government shall take responsibility for the health of our constituents. Our government shall take responsibility of the economic development of our region. Our government shall take responsibility for the infrastructure development of our areas,”Murad said.
He added that "now that the government that we have long dreamed has finally established, the trust and responsibility is now in our hands. We are accountable to it, to Allah, and to our fellow Bangsamoro."
Outgoing ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman called on all Moro and non-Moro people to support the new Bangsamoro government.
"I have my full support to the 80 members of the BTA. I hope you will support the BTA and the interim chief just like what you did during my stint," Hataman said.
Meanwhile, the following have been named to serve different posts in the new Bangsamoro government: Engr. Edward Guerra, Minister of Budget and Finance; Dr. Zafrullah Dipatuan, Minister of Health; Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, Minister of Interior and Local Governance; Atty. Raisa Jajurie, Minister Social Service; Timuay Melanio Ulama, Minister of Indigenous Affairs; Mohagher Iqbal, Minister of Education; Mohammad Yacon, Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture; Abdulrauf Macacua, Minister of Environment; Murad Ebrahim, Minister of Public Works and Highways; and Hussein Munoz, Minister of Public Order and Safety.
The BTA will govern the Bangsamoro during the three-year transition period until June 30, 2022, when the first set of BARMM officials have been elected.
ARMM posts lower employment rate
- Source: https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/07/armm-posts-lower-employment-rate/
- Tuesday, March 12, 2019
- By Antonio Colina IV
DAVAO CITY – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) posted an employment rate of 93.7% in January 2019, lower compared to 97.4% recorded in the same period of last year, according to the results of the January 2019 Labor Force Survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) released on Thursday.
The ARMM had been replaced by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao after majority of its population voted in favor of the ratification of the Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OLBARMM) in a plebiscite last January 21 and February 6.
The latest employment figure of the ARMM was the lowest among Mindanao’s six regions and the second lowest in the Philippines. The National Capital Region had the lowest at 93.6% while the highest was 96.9% of the Cagayan Valley.
The ARMM registered a labor force participation rate (LFPR) of 47.7%, the lowest in the Philippines, given the population 15 years old and over of 2.44 million as of January 2019.
The Northern Mindanao posted the highest employment rate at 95.8% in Mindanao; Davao Region, 95.5%; Zamboanga Peninsula and Soccsksargen, 95.4%; and Caraga, 94.1%.
Based on the preliminary results of the Annual Labor and Employment Estimates for 2018 of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the ARMM’s employment rate of 96.3% for the entire 2018 was the highest in Mindanao.
The country’s employment rate in January 2019 was estimated at 94.8%, slightly higher compared to 94.7% recorded in the same period last year. The survey found the LFPR in the country was 60.2% given the population 15 years old and over of 72.95 million.
Workers in the services sector comprised the largest proportion of the employed population at 58.1%; agriculture sector, 22.1%; and industry sector, 19.7%.
Basilan marks 45th founding anniversary
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064005
- Monday, March 11, 2019
- By Teofilo Garcia, Jr. (PNA)
ZAMBOANGA CITY--The provincial government of Basilan highlighted the cultural and economic value of weaved Yakan cloth as the province celebrated Thursday its 45th founding anniversary.
Basilan Governor Hadjiman Hataman-Saliman told the Philippine News Agency that the celebration put a spotlight on the weaved Yakan cloth as it is the greatest heritage of the province.
Saliman said they added the word “Tennun” to promote the identity of Basilan and to signify the province's achievements in terms of peace and development. "Tennun" generally means woven cloth used in making the Yakan dress.
Anchored on the theme “Tennun…Weaving Diverse Culture for Peace and Inclusive Growth," the celebration culminated at the Isabela City Grandstand following a parade of participants wearing Yakan cloth.
Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, highlighted the improved peace and order condition of Basilan compared to the situation 21 years ago when he was assigned in the province.
Dela Vega represented National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the keynote speaker who was not able to attend due to an important appointment in Manila.
“We can see a big difference between before and now because of the development that is undertaken by the local government in terms of political, social and economic environment,” dela Vega said.
“You can count us in all you endeavors to ensure a brighter and better future of Basilan,” he added.
Saliman said this year’s "Pakarajaan", merrymaking in the local dialect, calls “for what is happening today and the previous ones”.
The different municipalities also showcased theatrical performances depicting their cultural values and traditions.
“We are celebrating the pride and culture of all the Basileños not only of the majority Yakans but also the Tausugs, the Christians called Chabacanos, and Sama who are inhabitants of this province,” Saliman said.
Saliman is the elder brother of former Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
President Rodrigo Duterte has declared March 7 as special non-working day in Basilan to provide an opportunity to the residents to celebrate the founding anniversary of the province.
5th Maguindanao town declared ‘drug-cleared’
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064008
- Sunday, March 10, 2019
- By Noel Punzalan (PNA)
COTABATO CITY -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-ARMM) has declared the town of Datu Abdullah Sangki in Maguindanao as “drug-cleared”.
The town is the fifth municipality to be declared "drug-cleared" in the province as well as the entire region.
“The persistent coordination of town officials of Datu Abdullah Sangki to the PDEA–ARMM to rid their place of illegal drugs has given them this remarkable commendation,” Marlon Santos, PDEA-ARMM officer-in-charge, said in a statement Thursday.
Only recently, the provincial oversight committee gave its final nod to declare the town’s 10 villages as drug-cleared after the concluding evaluation of its two far-flung villages--Old Maganoy and Madanding.
“The fight against prohibited drugs in this town would unceasingly continue in support to President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign to rid our country of the social menace,” Mayor Bai Mariam Sangki Mangudadatu said during a local radio interview Friday.
In 2018, the PDEA-ARMM has also declared the towns of Pandag, Shariff Aguak, Paglat and Kabuntalan, all in Maguindanao, as cleared of illegal drugs, peddlers, and drug dependents.
PRO-BARMM honors wounded cops in Lanao Sur clashes
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1066725
- Saturday, March 9, 2019
- By Edwin Fernandez (PNA)
COTABATO CITY -- The Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM) on Sunday honored police officers wounded during a recent law enforcement operation in Lanao del Sur.
Brig. Gen. Graciano Mijares, PRO-BARMM director, pinned the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting to wounded police officers during simple ceremonies at Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City.
Mijares said the wounded policemen are now recuperating from gunshot wounds after trading shots with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) elements in Madamba, Lanao del Sur, last April 4 in an operation gone haywire.
They are identified as Police Captains Glen Lyca Gevero and Mark Harry Boglosa, Sergeants Marlon Panitan, Magno Olete; and Niño Cadano; Corporals Ronald Rosco and Omar Masakal; and Patrolman Arnel Montallanac. Each received a merit medal in recognition of their gallantry in the performance of police duties.
Speaking to reporters, Mijares said PNP-BARMM officials are also now studying the possibility of promoting to one rank higher all the eight wounded cops.
Policemen were to serve warrants against four wanted persons in Barangay Ilian, Madamba, when the suspects resisted arrest and resulted to a shootout.
The four wanted persons were killed but relatives of those slain connected with the MILF in the area retaliated, wounding eight police personnel in the process. Both the government and MILF coordinating peace panels are investigating the incident.
2K indigent patients get health services in Maguindanao
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063876
- Friday, March 8, 2019
- By Edwin Fernandez and Noel Punzalan (PNA)
COTABATO CITY – An estimated 2,000 poor patients from Maguindanao’s 36 towns have so far benefitted from the ongoing massive four-day provincial health office program, being held in Shariff Aguak town.
Dubbed as “Gamutan Pangkalahatan Alay sa Bangsamoro ‘Yes’ to Kalusugan,” the program - which started Tuesday and will end Friday - is being spearheaded by the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) – Maguindanao, headed by Dr. Tahir Sulaik, at the provincial hospital compound in Shariff Aguak.
Sulaik said they are targeting as much as 5,000 patients during the duration of the program.
“Physicians from the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City and volunteer doctors from Cotabato City; Isulan, Sultan Kudarat; and Tacurong City have joined us in this program,” Sulaik told reporters in an interview Wednesday.
Services offered include free operation for hernia, abdominal mass, breast mass, cyst, goiter, cleft lip and palate, head and neck mass, tumor, fractured bones, ligation, vasectomy, cataract operation, dental services, mass blood glucose determination, eye examination and surgery for pterygium and cancer screening, free pap smear, laboratory services, x-ray and ultrasound, general consultation and screening, and a blood-letting activity.
Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu, also led the opening on Tuesday of the new out-patient department building and the newly-built mosque inside the hospital premises.
“Also, some of the patients have received wheelchairs from the governor,” Sulaik said.
Japan, ILO ink $2.6-M Bangsamoro water supply project
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063793
- Thursday, March 7, 2019 3:16 pm
- By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora (PNA)
MANILA -- More households in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will soon have access to safe and potable water through a USD2.6 million-worth project that will build a community-based water supply in the region.
On Wednesday, the Japanese government and the International Labor Organization (ILO) inked a deal that would aid in the construction of water supply and recovery systems in the region using local workforce.
The initiative is expected to benefit over 1,800 workers and at least 12,000 households in the conflict-affected areas.
"I look forward to seeing more households in the Bangsamoro region gain better access to potable water, averting vulnerabilities to water-borne diseases caused by unsafe sources," Ambassador Koji Haneda said during the signing ceremony.
"Aside from making optimum use of these water infrastructure, I hope the beneficiaries will also find opportunities for decent work and better living conditions through this project with the ILO," he added.
Khalid Hassan, director of ILO Philippines, said the project would serve as "one of the centerpieces" for ILO's centenary "as interventions in the Bangsamoro areas are meant to create jobs" while advocating the decent work agenda.
"Using a peace lens, the project will reach out to returning combatants, vulnerable youth, indigenous peoples, and men and women displaced and vulnerable to conflict," he added.
In the ARMM, only 53 percent of families have access to safe water-- lower than the national average of 85 percent, based on the 2016 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.
PDEA-ARMM nabs HVT drug suspect, seizes P340K shabu
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063769
- Wednesday, March 6, 2019 4:03 pm
- By Noel Punzalan (PNA)
COTABATO CITY -- Anti-narcotic agents nabbed a high-value target (HVT) drug personality from Maguindanao province and seized from the suspect some PHP340,000 worth of illegal drugs during a buy-bust operation here Tuesday.
Marlon Santos, officer-in-charge of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-ARMM), identified the arrested suspect as Samin Agao Kusain alias Hussain Samin Agao, 36, former village secretary of Barangay Katidtuan, Kabuntalan, Maguindanao.
Santos said Agao was collared following a 3:30 p.m. deal with a poseur-buyer at the corner of Don Rufino Alonzo Street and Quezon Avenue in this city.
Agao yielded 50 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of PHP340,000; a wallet containing six identification documents, a mobile phone, and the marked money, the PDEA-ARMM officer said.
“An accomplice of the suspect identified as Noriza Ako alias ‘Bai’ managed to elude arrest,” he added.
Charges for violation of RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) are being readied against the suspect who is now detained at the PDEA-ARMM custodial facility at Pedro Colina Hill in this city.
ARMM emergency response unit in limbo
- Source: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/03/01/1897736/armm-emergency-response-unit-limbo
- Tuesday, March 5, 2019
- By John Unson (The Philippine Star)
COTABATO CITY , Philippines — Uncertainty hounds the contingent that served five million people in disaster and conflict response operations while under the now defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
Personnel of the Humanitarian Emergency Assistance and Response Team (HEART) yesterday held what was for them their last staff meeting.
They are unsure if the regional parliament of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will retain their multi-awarded humanitarian outfit.
The HEART, established in 2013 by then ARMM governor Mujiv Hataman, is comprised of rescuers and medical responders trained to serve even in extremely hostile and uncontrolled environments.
Many HEART workers also underwent extensive schooling on offshore rescue operations in the special military training school of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, the largest military unit in central Mindanao.
HEART information officer Myrna Jocelyn Henry said they are now ready to turn over their office and well documented equipment outlay to BARMM’s chief minister, Hadji Murad Ebrahim.
Ebrahim, chairman of the central committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), is the appointed head of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) that would manage the BARMM pending the election of its first set of officials in 2022.
Hataman turned over to Ebrahim the ARMM government last Tuesday to pave the way for its replacement with an MILF-led BARMM.
HEART personnel said they are still waiting for a written memorandum from Ebrahim on whether to move out or stay for possible retention.
“We have prepared for this. Our former regional governor, Mujiv Hataman, supported the creation of BARMM so we also voted for the ratification of the law that created it, the Bangsamoro Organic Law,” said a Moro rescuer.
Hataman said he is hoping the BTA will retain the HEART.
“These workers have proven their dedication to serve even in difficult situations. Their trainings and field work experience would just go to waste. Just the same, it’s really up to the BTA, whose governance initiatives I shall support to the best I can,” Hataman said.
Besides having provided residents of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi with relief services over the past five years, the HEART also aided evacuees from villages in Tacloban and Leyte in the Visayas that were hit by a powerful storm more than two years ago.
Murad leads first BARMM flag-raising ceremony
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063552
- Monday, March 4, 2019 7:25 pm
- By Noel Punzalan (PNA)
SHARIFF KABUNSUAN COMPLEX, Cotabato City – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Interim Chief Minister Al Haj Murad Ebrahim led here Monday other regional officials for BARMM’s first-ever flag-raising ceremony at the complex of the now-defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
Murad stood at attention as he sang the “Lupang Hinirang” national anthem together with the other BARMM ministerial officials and some 500 employees at the grounds fronting the BARMM administrative building here.
“This is the first time that I, as your Chief Minister, and the members of the Interim Cabinet, have joined you in this flag-raising ceremony,” Murad said in his speech following the hoisting of the Philippine flag.
He noted that the new regional set up is in the very early stage of the transition process, and brings with it some elements of fear, doubt, and resistance.
“Maybe the most frequently asked question among yourselves could be, what would happen to us now?” he said, adding that consistent with his earlier statements, the employees’ status in the BARMM would be determined by the nature of their appointments.
“That is, for the permanent (employees): you remain in your posts until the Bangsamoro Transition Authority has finally adopted the transition plan, which shall contain the organizational plan as well as the schedule for the implementation thereof,” Murad said.
For those holding contracts of service, he said the BARMM would honor such contract in general, but a review of the nature of the job and performance shall also be made.
“For those co-terminus, I know that you are also aware that your service has to end simultaneous with the end of the term of the one who appointed you,” he stressed.
Murad told the BARMM workers to prepare for some snags in the coming months as there would be adjustments in the administrative, fiscal, organizational, legal, and relational matters to be resolved during the transition process.
“My only request to you, fellow workers of the BARMM, is cooperation. I truly understand your concern for your careers, but somehow we have to start this overhauling of the regional government,” he said.
Murad said a ministerial form of government would be established, necessitating bureaucratic changes, that is, changes in structures, processes and even people.
“We have to remember that the constitutional provisions on the creation of our autonomous region are grounded on the history of the struggle of our people for, among other things, the opportunity to improve their lives and their communities,” he said.
BARMM leaders to get P31 billion from budget
- Source: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/02/28/1897436/barmm-leaders-get-p31-billion-budget
- Sunday, March 3, 2019
- By Jezz Diaz With Delon Porcalla, John Unson, Jose Rodel Clapano, Jaime Laude (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines — The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) that will administer the new autonomous Muslim region in Mindanao for three years will inherit operational funds of more than P31 billion this year.
The amount is the funding level President Duterte has recommended in his proposed P3.757-trillion 2019 national budget for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The Senate and the House of Representatives have retained the amount.
On Tuesday, ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman turned over leadership of the regional government to Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leader Murad Ebrahim, who heads the transition body that will run the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Hataman was expected to make a detailed accounting of the funds, personnel, equipment and other assets ARMM is entrusting to BARMM.
In his still-to-be-enacted proposed budget for this year, the President allocated a total of P31.117 billion to ARMM divided as P13.4 billion for salaries, P4.659 billion for maintenance and other operating expenses and P13.059 billion for capital outlay, the bulk of which is for infrastructure projects.
The allocation for salaries is huge because of thousands of public school teachers under the region’s education department.
The ARMM outlay is further distributed into 12 expense classes: P236 million for regional legislation; P1.278 billion for regional autonomy administration and finance resources management; P40.3 million for peace, law and order, and human rights protection and promotion; P629.6 million for agriculture, fishery and land reform; P56.1 million for employment and industrial peace; and P147.1 million for trade, industry and investment development.
Some P11.2 billion goes to education, science and technology, and P10.8 billion to roads and public infrastructure facilities.
Ebrahim, as concurrent minister of public works and highways, and Mohaguer Iqbal, as education minister, will oversee the expenditure of the largest budgetary allocations for the new autonomous region.
The remaining expense classes and their funding are P1.5 billion for health and nutrition, P157 million for social welfare and protection, P67.5 million for transportation and communications, P33.2 million for environment conservation and management and human settlement.
The projects, programs and activities to be funded under the 12 expense classifications are all detailed in the ARMM budget.
The regional government is required to approve a budget plan and follow procurement laws and regulations.
Some previous Muslim officials are facing criminal charges for alleged misuse of the autonomous region’s funds.
Funding for ARMM more than doubled under the administration of former president Benigno Aquino III and Hataman’s leadership of the region.
A lawmaker said Islamic banks are crucial to the Bangsamoro’s development as an independent region.
Leyte Rep. Henry Ong, chairman of the committee on banks and financial intermediaries of the House of Representatives, said it would be best for the BTA to lobby for the measure crucial for the region’s economy.
“To boost the economy of the BARMM, I express the hope that the proposed Islamic Banking law be prioritized immediately after Congress reconvenes post-May elections,” he said.
“Aside from the national budgetary support and foreign grants, new investments are needed in Northern Mindanao and BARMM. Having more investment flows through Islamic banks and expanded financial inclusion will further spur economic activity,” Ong said.
Ong explained Islamic banks will allow private investors and governments in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and parts of Africa to engage business in the BARMM.
He said Islamic banks will act as financial conduits, advisors and depositary institutions.
Good governance to reign in BARMM: BTA chief
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063061
- Saturday, March 2, 2019
- By EJ Roque (PNA)
MANILA – Good governance will be delivered in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the interim administrator of the newly-established Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Murad Ebrahim Al Haj promised on Tuesday.
Murad, recently appointed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte as the interim Chief Minister of the BARMM, vowed to eradicate the culture of corruption and sustain the gains of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
"The trust and responsibility is now in our hands. We are accountable to it, to Allah, and our fellow Bangsamoro," he said in a ceremonial handover event at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex inside the ARMM compound in Cotabato City.
Murad said the Bangsamoro people are now entering a new struggle, which is to instill the culture of good governance in the autonomous region.
"Our enemy during this struggle is not the soldiers. Our enemy is not the government. Our enemy is oppression, our enemy is exploitation, our enemies are those anti-people," Murad said.
"We are now entering another level of Jihad. Our Jihad will be more intense and more challenging. Our Jihad, firstly, will be against our own self. Our enemy is graft and corruption. Our enemy is manipulation of the government. Our enemy is nepotism. Our enemy is all those ills of the government," he added.
Murad cited the interim government’s main agenda that would ensure the delivery of services to the Moro and non-Moro people residing in the BARMM.
"Our government shall take responsibility for the education of our children. Our government shall take responsibility for the health of our constituents. Our government shall take responsibility for the economic development of our region. Our government shall take responsibility for the infrastructure development of our areas. I shall be responsible for leading a morally upright bureaucracy," he said.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. said he is confident that the BTA members can fulfill their mandate since they are people with "sincerity, dedication, and commitment in pushing for the realization of the Bangsamoro aspirations".
Galvez urged the BTA to "work for the common good of the Bangsamoro people".
"The bottom line here is to bring good governance through clean governmental transaction. This will show our sincerity to provide the needed services that the people in the Bangsamoro truly deserve," Galvez said in a speech.
Galvez emphasized the significance of unity in diversity, urging the new leadership to work together as a team.
"Just like a rainbow, it is composed of different hues. Each color is uniquely beautiful and has a special purpose. It is reflective of the various tribes and beliefs that co-exist in the Bangsamoro homeland. But we can only maximize its beauty and power if we work harmoniously and collectively," he said.
Immediately after the ceremonial handover, the new Bangsamoro government hit the ground running as Murad presided a Cabinet meeting to set the direction and focus of the new administration.
Another meeting was set on Wednesday to identify the parliament's priorities for the next 100 days, which include the establishment of the key legislative structures such as Electoral, Local Government, Education, Administrative, Revenue, and Civil Service Codes.
Prior to Tuesday’s event, Murad met with Galvez and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chair Yusop Jikiri to discuss issues that need to be resolved to ensure a seamless transition. Among them is the status of ARMM employees.
"We agreed that there will be no retrenchment. All employees, except those who are co-terminus, will be retained until the end of the year," Galvez said.
Galvez echoed Duterte's guidance to put a premium on the welfare of the Bangsamoro and every Filipino.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said he is elated at bowing down from the office since he is leaving a more developed ARMM.
"Iiwan natin ang rehiyon nang mas malakas, mas maunlad (We will be leaving the region stronger, more developed)," he said emotionally.
ARMM's economic growth has improved in recent years. In 2017, its gross regional domestic product had its peak in history with 12.1 percent, making it the fastest in the country. Its employment rate also surged at 97.4 percent last year.
The BARMM is composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, and the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. The autonomous region's territory has expanded to include the city of Cotabato and 63 villages in North Cotabato province following the plebiscites in these areas.
The establishment of the BARMM is the result of the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law -- the legal document operationalizing the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, including all the previous peace agreements that the government has entered into with the Moro fronts.
Duterte earlier described the new BARMM as a realization of everyone's dream to end the armed struggle in Mindanao.
MILF chief assumes gov't post as BARMM chief
- Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063024
- Friday, March 1, 2019
- By Noel Punzalan and Edwin Fernandez (PNA)
COTABATO CITY – The leader of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is now officially a government official after he assumed on Tuesday the leadership of the expanded autonomous region in southern Philippines.
In a turn-over ceremony, MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim assumed the top post of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) from ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center here.
The historic event was witnessed by Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and more than 5,000 Bangsamoro people.
Hataman turned over his post to Ebrahim, including the assets and liabilities of the regional bureaucracy. After which, the outgoing governor delivered an emotional farewell speech.
“Let us now unite, do away with tribalism, Muslims, Christians and (Indigenous Peoples), let us all unite now under this Bangsamoro government,” a teary-eyed Hataman said in his speech.
The BARMM is the result of more than 20 years of peace negotiations between Manila and the MILF. After assuming the post, Ebrahim announced some of his regional cabinet members who will help him run the affairs of the new political entity.
Ebrahim assured ARMM civil government workers that they shall remain in office in the meantime but those who are co-terminus with the elected officials may go.
“All those in the bureaucracy will remain intact,” Ebrahim said as the current ARMM employees who feared of losing jobs when the new leaders assume office lauded his statement.
Ebrahim said the new government will be inaugurated next month, as the first session of the BARMM parliament will also take place in March. Ebrahim, in a concurrent capacity, would be BARMM’s Minister of Public Works and Highways. Other appointees include Architect Eduard Guerra, Minister of Finance, Budget and Management; Atty. Raissa Jajurie, Minister of Social Services;
Mohagher Iqbal, Minister of Basic, Higher and Technical Education; Dr. Zafrullah Dipatuan, Minister of Health; Timuay Melanio Ulama, Minister of Indigenous Peoples Affairs; Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, Minister of Local Government; Abdoraof Macacua, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources; Mohammad Suwaib Yacob, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform; and Hussein Munoz, Minister of Public Order and Safety.
NHA turns over 'transitory shelters' to 206 Marawi families
- Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059344
- Sunday, January 20, 2019
- By Divina Suson (PNA)
MARAWI CITY--The National Housing Authority (NHA) turned over 550 units of transitory shelters in Barangay Boganga here Thursday.
The first batch of beneficiaries, consisting of 206 families, lost their homes during the five-month war between government forces and the Maute-ISIS terrorist group that began on May 23, 2017.
They moved in to their assigned units immediately after the turnover ceremony while the remaining shelters will eventually be occupied by the beneficiaries identified by the local government unit of Marawi while the NHA continues to build more.
Called the Lake View Shelter, the transitory relocation site in Boganga is the second temporary relocation site for the displaced families, particularly those from the 250-hectare most affected area (MAA), who have stayed in the different evacuation centers in Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur since the start of the Marawi siege.
The first one is the Bahay ng Pagbabago in Barangay Sagonsongan where the government built 1,052 temporary shelters that are already being occupied by the beneficiaries.
Located inside the Sagonsongan is the Angat Buhay Village, initiated by Vice President Leni Robredo's Angat Buhay Foundation, consisting of 60 housing units.
The NHA said 1,500 transitory shelter units will be built in Boganga and Sagonsongan before March this year, and about 300 additional units will be turned over to the next batch of beneficiaries.
"Tuloy-tuloy po ang pagbibigay namin ng (transitory shelter) units hanggang sa ma-occupy ang 550 units, at sa darating na Marso ay muli kaming magbubukas at magtu-turn over ng 250 to 300 units pa po para sa mga kapatid nating nasa mga evacuation centers pa (We will continue to turn over transitory shelters until all 550 units are occupied, and by March we plan to open another 250 to 300 units for families still living in evacuation shelters)," said NHA Director Roderick Ibañez.
Started in August last year, the housing agency finished the first 550 units in less than five months.
Salima Ampaso, a former resident of Barangay Datu Naga inside the MAA, said she was relieved when she was included in the first batch to receive transitory housing in Boganga.
"Mainit sa evacuation center, wala kang privacy. Di ka makagalaw para maghanapbuhay dahil walang magbabantay sa tent mo, sa anak mo dahil nag-alala ka sa safety niya (It is hot in evacuation shelters, there's no privacy. You can't move to find a living because no one will watch over the tent, and you worry about your child's safety)," she said.
Although it took almost two years before she and her fellow evacuees to be relocated, Ampaso said it was worth the wait.
Task Force Bangon Marawi explained that it prioritized those who are still living in the evacuation centers outside Marawi City to be transferred to transitory shelters.
Ibañez said about 800 families are still living in the evacuation centers, some of them in the Sarimanok tents in Barangay Poblacion.
Jan. 21 special non-working day in ARMM, 2 other cities
- Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059199
- Saturday, January 19, 2019
- By Azer Parrocha (PNA)
MANILA -- Malacañang has declared Jan. 21, 2019 (Monday), a special non-working day in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Isabela City, and Cotabato City for the plebiscite of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, by authority of the President, signed Proclamation No. 646 on Jan. 10, 2019 but it was released to media on Jan. 17 (Thursday).
Medialdea signed the proclamation to allow the residents an opportunity to participate in the plebiscite and exercise their right to vote.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo confirmed anew that President Rodrigo R. Duterte will be attending a big rally on Jan. 18 in Cotabato City to appeal to the people to vote for the ratification of the BOL.
“It will push through as scheduled. The President will go there tomorrow and make a pitch for the ratification,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing.
“You must remember that the President (is) in favor of the BOL so it’s just logical for someone who is in favor of a particular idea to make a pitch for it,” he added.
Earlier, Panelo described the President’s voice as a “powerful influence” for the ratification of the measure which seeks to establish a new Bangsamoro political entity to replace ARMM.
However, he said that ultimately, it is the people’s call to decide whether they will vote for the ratification of the BOL or not.
Duterte signed the BOL, or Republic Act 11054, on July 26, 2018 seeking to grant wider self-rule to predominantly Muslim provinces and cities in southern Philippines.
ARMM inaugurates P20-M projects in Basilan
- Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1059110
- Friday, January 18, 2019
- By Teofilo Garcia, Jr
LAMITAN CITY, Basilan -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Wednesday inaugurated some PHP20 million worth of projects in this city.
The projects, consisting of two buildings worth PHP10 million each, were constructed at the 10-hectare Basilan government center in Barangay Sta. Clara, this city.
ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman, who led the inauguration, said the two projects are aimed at improving the delivery of services of the Basilan Schools Division and Lamitan City Schools Division.
Norhaya Abdurahim, Basilan Schools Division superintendent, said they will occupy the two newly-constructed buildings before the end of January.
Abdurahim, on behalf of the two school divisions, expressed gratitude to the regional government and all concerned stakeholders “for the efforts extended in the realization of the two projects.”
The buildings were constructed by the District Engineer’s Office of ARMM’s Department of Public Works and Highways headed by Engr. Soler Undug.
The inauguration was witnessed by Basilan Gov. Hadjiman Hataman-Salliman, Vice Mayor Roderick Furigay and other government officials. (PNA)
Disaster risk reduction training held in Maguindanao
- Source: https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/01/16/disaster-risk-reduction-training-held-in-maguindanao/
- Thursday, January 17, 2019
- By Francis Wakefield
The Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion (40th IB), in partnership with the government of Radjah Buayan led by its mayor Zamzamin L. Ampatuan, conducted an Inter-agency Disaster Risk Reduction Office (DRRO) Training Exercise at its headquarters in Barangay Zapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao, over the weekend.
The participants were 69 members of the Magiting Inter Agency Task Force coming from the four municipalities of Radjah Buayan, Sultan Sa Barongis, Mamasapano and Shariff Saydona Mustapha all of Maguindanao.
Part of the program was the competition to ensure that they learn from the lectures on different kinds of bandaging of wounds/fractures; reviving a victim using Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR); high angle and low angle rescue; and, the different ways of carrying a patient.
Prizes worth P10, 000 for the first prize; P8, 000 for the second prize, P5, 000 for the third prize and P2, 000 for the fourth prize, were given to the winners.
The said training aimed to address the impact of disasters and climate change at various levels that has made significant strides in the implementation of disaster risk reduction (DRR) planning and activities.
Lt. Col. Edfgar Catu, Commanding Officer of the 40th IB, mentioned during the opening ceremony that the knowledge and skills that they will acquire would be very important so that they will be able to respond to disasters or calamities and save lives.
Army 6th Infantry Divisiom Commander Major General Cirilito E. Sobejana, Commander, on the other hand, said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been a primary responder during disasters and has been deployed frequently to several disaster relief operations in Central Mindanao.
“However, it is overwhelming if other agencies will help hand-in-hand in terms of natural and man-made disaster,” Sobejana said.
DA in Lanao del Sur tops agri achievers in ARMM
- Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1017065
- Wednesday, January 16, 2019
- (DA Lanao del Sur/PIA10)
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DAF-ARMM) gathered its officials and employees from all over the region on Jan. 6 to celebrate its milestone in 2018.
The event dubbed "Pakaradjaan sa DAF-ARMM" was aimed to honor employees who have made great contributions in the attainment of the agency’s goals and objectives.
One of the highlights of the event was the awarding of the 2018 Agricultural Achievers where DA Lanao del Sur bagged numerous awards.
DA Lanao del Sur Chief Pangalian Balindong, Jr. received the Top Performing Provincial Agricultural Officer (PAO) of ARMM.
Other achievers include Marilou G. Sopocado, Top Performing High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) Coordinator; Raina B. Sembrano, Top Performing Corn Coordinator; Engr. Papala F. Lawanza, Top Performing Organic Agriculture Coordinator; Mariam Naik, Top Performing Municipal Agricultural Officer (MAO); Raisoli A. Muzor and Camalia Disalongan, Top Performing Agriculture Extension Workers; and Dr. Alfreda E. Te, Achiever Awardee in the field of information.
Certificates were also awarded to MAO Toribio L. Pingol, MAO Casad C. Ayo-on, Agriculture Technologist Salman M. Faisal, Planning Officer Shalini B. Plawan, Daud Diapar (Livestock Coordinator), Naga M. Tucalo (Rice Coordinator) and PAFC Coordinator Monatampar Bandera.
During the event, DAF-ARMM Sec. Alexander G. Alonto thanked all the employees for their hard work which contributed to the betterment of the department.
He also encouraged everyone to serve even better in the upcoming Bangsamoro government.
Other highlights of the Pakaradjaan included the launching of the DAF-ARMM Agricultural Profile and a cultural show from the different participants.
P20B earned in 6 years: MILF hopes to sustain ARMM investment gains
- Source: http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/01/p20b-earned-in-6-years-milf-hopes-to-sustain-armm-investment-gains/
- Thursday, January 10, 2019
- By Bong S. Sarmiento (MindaNews)
KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews / 10 Jan) – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) hopes to sustain the investment generated by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in the last six years pegged at P20 billion.
MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim said that sustaining investors’ confidence in the proposed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) can be achieved by employing the concept of “inclusive business model.”
Such business model, while for profit, will benefit the poor or low income communities not through charitable acts but through their inclusion in business operations, he said.
“[These business operations] will provide them livelihood essential to build a dignified society,” Murad said in a message to a recent business forum in Cotabato City.
The MILF chief vowed to adopt the Business Sustainability Framework in the Bangsamoro (BSFB), which was initiated by the ARMM Regional Board of Investment (ARMM-RBOI) and anchored on the inclusive business model, in attracting new investments to the BARMM.
The Australian government-funded Brokering Business Investments in the Bangsamoro to Achieve Inclusive Development and Growth or BRIDGe project enabled the crafting of the BSFP.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman expressed confidence the new Bangsamoro region can build on the gains of the existing 28-year-old autonomous Muslim region.
Citing data from the ARMM-RBOI from 2012 to 2018, Hataman, ARMM’s seventh governor, said the region accumulated investments worth P20 billion that generated 15,000 jobs.
ARMM straddles the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi.
Maguindanao is the region’s top investment destination, bagging P14.8 billion or 74 percent of the approved ventures in the region from 2012 to 2018, regional government data showed.
Some companies in Maguindanao are producing and exporting Cavendish banana to China, Japan and the Middle East.
Hataman believed the future “will remain bright” for the Bangsamoro people under the new political entity, as he called on voters to participate in the plebiscite to ratify the Bangsamoro organic law set on January 21 and February 6.
The organic law is the key component of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the final peace deal signed in 2014 by the government and the MILF.
Once ratified, the BARMM will replace the ARMM.
Once the BARMM is in place, the MILF will lead the interim Bangsamoro Transition Authority. The MILF central committee had endorsed Murad to lead the transition government until the regular elections in 2022.
Lawyer Ishak Mastura, ARMM-RBOI chairperson, said that the years of cumulative growth in investments of at least P1 billion annually in the region was largely due to the success of the government-MILF peace process.
“The window of investment growth in the ARMM will require more nurturing and active stewardship by the leaders (of the future BARMM) in order to sustain the gains of the region,” Mastura said.
ARMM holds the distinction as the country’s poorest region with a poverty incidence of 48 percent, ARMM-RBOI data showed.
20 Cotabato barangays included in BOL plebiscite
- Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1058003
- Wednesday, January 9, 2019
- By Ferdinand Patinio (PNA)
MANILA -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday announced that 20 barangays in the province of Cotabato will be part of the forthcoming plebiscite for the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“The first batch of Comelec en banc decisions on BOL (Bangsamoro Organic Law) petitions has been released, and 20 petitions have been granted,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in a statement.
The following will be included in the scheduled plebiscite: barangays Libungan Torreta, Upper Pangankalan, Datu Mantil, and Simsiman in Pigcawayan town; Barangay Pagangan in Aleosan town; and barangays Langogan, Pebpoloan, Kibayao, Kotulaan, and Tupig in Carmen town; Barangays Rajahmuda, Barungis, Gli-gli, Nalapaan, Palicupan, Nunguan, Manaulanan, Bulol, Bualan, and Nabundas, all in Pikit town.
Jimenez said the Commission en banc has approved the petitions of the said barangays for voluntary inclusion in the referendum for ratification of the BOL.
Meanwhile, 24 petitions have been denied for failing to comply with the rules regarding voluntary inclusion in the plebiscite.
A total of 103 petitions for voluntary inclusion have been filed before the poll body.
The Comelec had said that the areas contiguous to any of the Bangsamoro core areas may apply for voluntary inclusion in the plebiscite, by either the local government of such an area filing a resolution; or at least 10 percent of the registered voters in a local government unit filing a petition and ask for inclusion in the plebiscite.
If approved, the Bangsamoro plebiscite in such areas that sought voluntary inclusion will be held on February 6.
The first scheduled plebiscite is set on January 21, in geographical areas comprising Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) including Isabela City in Basilan and Cotabato City.
Gov’t, Cotabato leaders vow peaceful plebiscite, mid-term polls
- Source: https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/01/04/govt-cotabato-leaders-vow-peaceful-plebiscite-mid-term-polls/
- Tuesday, January 8, 2019
- By Francis Wakefield
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito G. Galvez Jr. and top military and police commanders met with local leaders in Camp Siongco, Maguindanao on Thursday, to defuse tension stoked by the recent bombing incident in Cotabato City, and to assure the city of a peaceful conduct of the upcoming Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite and midterm polls.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (Office of the Secretary of National Defense / MANILA BULLETIN) (Photo: Joseph Vidal/PRIB/ MANILA BULLETIN)
Lorenzana said they came to the province to prevent speculation and “finger-pointing” on the bombing, which claimed two lives and injured scores of others.
“We are here to defuse the tensions and we don’t want to escalate the conflict,” Lorenzana said.
Among those who attended the dialogue were Cotabato Mayor Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi, Maguindanao First District and Cotabato City Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, and Bangsamoro Islamic Forces Chief of Staff Sammy Gambar Al-Mansoor.
Lorenzana said a presentation made during the security briefing led by Army Sixth Infantry Division (6th ID) commander Maj. General Cirilito Sobejana suggested that the bombing had the signature of a local terror group.
“Until we get to the bottom of this, we consider this incident a terror attack,” he said, adding the initial investigation “points to Daulah Islamiyah terror group.”
The Defense Chief said their intention in coming to Maguindanao was to ensure the people “to have a free and peaceful elections and plebiscites.”
“Rest assured that your military and police are doing their best to ensure that you can vote freely according to your choice,” he said.
Lorenzana also called on the people to weigh the benefits of the BOL.
“Itong BOL na ito, matagal na natin hinihintay. There will be a lot of benefits. Let’s weigh it over para magkaroon naman tayong ng katahimikan [We’ve been waiting for the BOL for a long time. There will be a lot of benefits. Let’s weigh it over so we can have peace],” he said.
Meanwhile, Galvez and Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) chief Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega asked the leaders to stay calm following the attack.
“We can’t win peace by force, but by persuasive diplomacy and understanding,” Galvez said.
Galvez said the local leaders and the security forces are committed to making sure the upcoming plebiscite and elections “will be peaceful and it will reflect the honest will of the people.”
He noted that the presence of the Defense Chief was critical since Lorenzana knew the political landscape and security situation of the area very well, being a native of Parang in Maguindanao and an alumnus of Notre Dame University.
The plebiscite is scheduled on January 21, 2019 in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Cotabato City, and Isabela City for the ratification of the BOL.
For Lanao del Norte, North Cotabato, including the barangays that filed their petitions to join the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) granted by the Commission on Elections, the plebiscite will be on February 6, 2019.
Workshop explores convergence to address food insecurity
- Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016703
- Monday, January 7, 2019
- By Apipa P. Bagumbaran (APB/PIA10)
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)-- A four-day workshop brought together 39 stakeholders from government line agencies and local government units in Lanao del Sur to explore convergence efforts to ensure food security in the province.
The workshop, held Nov. 19 to 22, was organized by the provincial government to formulate a plan to address food insecurity as well as increase food sufficiency in the province.
During the workshop, the participants took a hard look at the factors that impact food security such as poverty, income, unemployment, productivity, and shocks including those that affect stability like disasters and conflicts.
Environment concerns and measures to preserve Lake Lanao were also tackled.
Assad Baunto of the Regional Planning and Development Office of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RPDO-ARMM), on the other hand, shared the various programs of the ARMM government to strengthen the region’s food system.
He also discussed the cyclical relationship between poverty, conflict, and food insecurity.
He said poverty measures deprivation has many dimensions.
Addressing food insecurity does not only involve ensuring the availability of food but also making sure that people have access to it at all times.
He also emphasized that while food insecurity can be a source of conflict, the conflict itself has a significant effect on food insecurity.
At the end of the workshop, the participants identified various programs, projects, activities, and budgetary requirements to ensure food security and stability.
They also crafted strategies on how to make convergence work for each of the identified programs.
Proposed policies and communication activities to support the convergence were also laid out.
The outputs of the workshop will be reviewed and finalized by the provincial government for inclusion in its annual investment plan.
ARMM studes clinch medals in nat'l, int'l contests
- Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016699
- Sunday, January 6, 2019
- (Bureau of Public Information-ARMM/PIA10)
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) –- Student representatives from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) brought pride to the Bangsamoro after bagging medals in different national and international competitions.
Ricco Teraytay from Camp Siongco National High School competed in the 2018 World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships from November 15 to 18 in Taipei, Taiwan, while Yahser Malang from ARMM Regional Science High School was the top two grand finalist during the Southeast Asia Video Festival held Nov. 24 in Manila.
Five students from Parang National High School also emerged the grand champion in the Science Investigatory Project on Nov. 16 in Olongapo City.
Students from ARMM Regional Science High School bagged the championship in a video competition under the theme "Everyday’s Hero" children category for their video entitled 'Super Guro'.
Sinebata 2018 is a competition of creators of videos for and by children from the Philippines convened by Anak TV, an advocacy organization that promotes television literacy and child-sensitive, family-friendly television in the Philippines.
Apart from receiving trophies and other prizes, the team placed second in the Second Southeast Asia Video Festival for Children, also known as Southeast Asia Prix Jeunesse.
The competition’s participants were from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
For the grand champion in the Science Investigatory Project, students from Parang National High School said it is an honor to represent the region in a science competition.
The team’s grand champion project is an anti-theft door alarm.
Lawyer Rasol Mitmug Jr., ARMM’s Education Department Secretary, noted that the ARMM government has consistently been supportive of these outstanding students.
He emphasized that the regional government is confident that the students in ARMM would also participate successfully in future national and international activities.
All the awardees said bringing the banner and pride of the Bangsamoro is a strong statement that people in the ARMM have many to offer.
Youth summit gathers young leaders in Piagapo
- Source: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1016696
- Saturday, January 5, 2019
- (Piagapo LGU/ PIA10)
PIAGAPO, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- More than 100 young leaders here gathered at the municipal complex on Dec. 17-19, 2018 for a youth summit organized by the municipal government in partnership with the 12th Civil-Military Operations Battalion of the Philippine Army.
The summit was anchored on the theme "Arise. Lead. Inspire" to transform and empower the youth in fulfilling their roles in building a morally and spiritually upright society.
During the summit, the young leaders underwent a series of interactive lectures and workshops and experienced practical exercises.
They were also exposed to several team building activities designed to prepare them to work better together.
Resource speakers were led by Ltc Wilfredo P. Amoma, Commanding Officer of the 12th CMO Battalion, who discussed preventing and countering violent extremism.
Other topics were: Environment and the Youth by Forester Asmarie M. Labao; the role of the youth in nation-building by Jamilnur D. Sarip, Prime Minister of MSU-Supreme Student Government; criminality and drug addiction and prevention by PSInsp. Vanessa Gabot; ill-effects of drug abuse/addiction by Dr. Rasmia M. Lawi; leadership development and interpersonal communications by Prof. Sorhaila L. Yusoph; the rule of law and children's rights by Atty. Ishaq L. Mangondato; and the role of the youth in the Bangsamoro by Rubina M. Macabunar.
Meanwhile, Piagapo Mayor Engr. Ali L. Sumandar commended the active participation and support of the Liga ng mga Barangay-Piagapo Chapter and the local Sangguninag Kabataan.
He also expressed appreciation to the 12thCMO Battalion for providing the facilitators during the summit.
The mayor hopes that the summit will foster unity and bravery among the youth for them to lead and inspire people to build stronger communities and a peaceful nation.
ARMM posts highest employment rate in Mindanao
- Source: https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/01/02/armm-posts-highest-employment-rate-in-mindanao/
- Friday, January 4, 2019
- By Antonio Colina IV
DAVAO CITY – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) had the highest employment rate in 2018 among the six regions in Mindanao, the preliminary results of the Annual Labor and Employment Estimates for 2018 showed.
The employment rate in ARMM, which is comprised of the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, and Cities of Lamitan and Tawi Tawi, was recorded at 96.3 percent in 2018, slightly lower compared to 96.6 percent recorded in 2017.
Region 12, or more collectively known as SOCCSKARGEN, pertaining to South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City, registered an employment rate of 96.1 percent; Caraga with 96 percent, Zamboanga Peninsula and Northern Mindanao with 95.9 percent, and 95.7 percent, and Davao Region with 95.7 percent.
The annual employment rate in the Philippines was estimated at 94.7 percent, with Cagayan Valley being the highest at 97percent and Ilocos Region, the lowest at 93.2percent, according to PSA.
The unemployment rate in the country last year was estimated at 5.3percent while the underemployment was 16.4 percent.
The PSA estimated the annual labor force participation rate was at 60.9percent out of 71.3 million population aged 15 years old and above. This was equivalent to 43.5 million economically active population comprising either employed or unemployed persons.
A total of 41.2 million were employed in 2018 in various industries such as agriculture, industry, and services sector, the PSA reported.
It said workers employed in the services sector comprised the largest proportion of the total employed workers at 56.6percent in 2018, which increased slightly from 56.3percent recorded in 2017.
Major of the workers in the services sector were engaged in the wholesale and retail trade and the repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles accounted the largest.
The agriculture sector came in the second highest which accounted for 24.3percent of the total employed workers in 2018 while workers in the industry sector made up the smallest which only registered 19.1percent.
A brief history: The Islamic City of Marawi
- Source: https://news.abs-cbn.com/ancx/culture/spotlight/01/01/19/a-brief-history-the-islamic-city-of-marawi
- Thursday, January 3, 2019
- By Ayesha Merdeka Alonto
As Marawi city moves toward rehabilitation, there is hope for a new dawn and a brave return to the nobility of the past.
Straddling between the serene shores of Lake Lanao and the mouth of Agus River, and amidst hills, valleys and mountains, nestles the city of Marawi. For millennia and even beyond, Marawi has served as the melting pot of the Meranaws from all municipalities. It is the heart of Lanao.
But today, the once bustling city center lies eerily empty and abandoned. Its entire landscape of colorful buildings has now become rubble and ruin. This is the Marawi we now see after the Maute Group—a locally-led terrorist cell affiliated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL)—went on a terrorist rampage in the city on May 23, 2017. As their international cohorts continue to do in other cities in the Islamic world, they brought mayhem and destruction in their wake.
Marawi was once called Dansalan which uses the root Meranaw word, dansal, meaning “where the waves come to shore.” Dansalan is understood as the destination point where boats berth. In 1907, Dansalan was officially created as a municipality under the Moro Province Legislative Council, and declared the capital of Lanao Province under the American Colonial Government. Under the Philippine Commonwealth Government, Dansalan was the last city chartered by virtue of Commonwealth Act No. 592 when President Manuel L. Quezon approved its conversion from a town to a city in 1940. Under the Republic of the Philippines, President Ramon Magsaysay signed Republic Act No. 1552, sponsored by Senator Domocao Alonto, into law; it was and renamed Marawi City in honor of the city’s martyred brave in Kuta Maraghui (Fort Marawi) in 1895. In 1959, President Carlos P. Garcia approved Republic Act No. 2228 which was sponsored once again by Senator Domocao Alonto. This act divided the Province of Lanao into Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur. Marawi City was then declared the capital of Lanao del Sur.
By virtue of a City Council Resolution in April 1980, which cited the fact that Marawi City was the only chartered city in the Philippines with a predominantly Muslim population, Marawi City was declared the “Islamic City of Marawi.”
The history of Marawi is inextricable from the history of the Meranaws. In their tarsilas (oral genealogies), it is recorded that the clan existed as far back as 6,000 years ago. Dansalan began as a port area, and was just as much the thriving hub of trade and commerce as it is today.
ARMM crime volume drops 20% in 2018
- Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1057684
- Wednesday, January 2, 2019
- By Noel Punzalan (PNA)
COTABATO CITY--Crime volume in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has dropped by as much as 20 percent this year, a top police official said.
In a statement released Friday, Chief Supt. Graciano Mijares, ARMM police director, said that of a total of 2,378 crimes recorded from January to November 2018, 900 are index crimes and 1,478 were non-index crimes.
“The current crime figure is lower by 592 crime incidents or some 20 percent down compared to last year’s 2,970 total number of crimes committed during the same period,” Mijares said.
He said the drop could be attributed to the effective crime solution strategy employed by the ARMM police force.
In particular, Mijares said the volume of index and non-index crimes decreased by 24.30 percent and 17.02 percent, respectively. Among the index crimes recorded were murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft and carnapping incidents.
In particular, he said murder cases went down by 18.90 percent, homicide (19.51 percent), physical injury (8.46 percent), rape (2.27 percent), robbery (32.29 percent), theft (51.06 percent), car theft (50 percent), and motorcycle theft (46.42 percent).
Mijares noted that non-index crimes committed are more on “violations of ordinances and special laws.” Mijares lauded the increasing public trust in law enforcers in the region, such as people reporting situations even before crimes are committed in their communities.
“The public’s vigilance was a vital key to reduced crime incidents across the region,” he emphasized.
Moreover, he also lauded the men and women under his command, who performed their assigned tasks in all levels of security, crime prevention, public relations, and anti-drug programs.
Mijares vowed that the police will continue with its fight against all forms of criminality for a more peaceful and progressive ARMM.
PRO-ARMM hauls P28.3-M illegal drugs in 2018
- Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1057582
- Tuesday, January 1, 2019
- By Noel Punzalan (PNA)
COTABATO CITY -- Police operatives from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) have confiscated PHP28.3-million worth of illegal drugs from January to November this year.
In a statement released Thursday, Chief Supt. Graciano Mijares, director of Police Regional Office (PRO) - ARMM, said the total drug haul was the result of 400 police anti-drug operations that also led to the arrest of 526 drug suspects.
“Of the total number of drug suspects arrested, 32 died after resisting arrest. A total of 834 drug-related cases were also filed by the ARMM police in court,” he said.
Mijares said the total confiscated drugs comprised 4,135 grams of shabu and 494 grams of marijuana.
He further said that the campaign against illegal gambling led to the apprehension of 243 personalities from 107 police operations.
The series of operations also resulted in the confiscation of PHP94,165 worth of gambling bet money, 30 fighting cocks, and 20 slot machines, among others.
Amid such achievements, Mijares sought the help of the public in their continuing campaign against prohibited drugs and gambling.
“Illegal drugs and gambling are both menaces to society. We need public support to neutralize these two as to other forms of criminality,” he said.
The PRO-ARMM covers the cities of Marawi and Lamitan, and the provinces of Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, and Basilan.
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