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==P300 Million steel bridge to be completed in Bongao==
==Endangered Species==
*Source: http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/news/13-top-stories/8779-p300-million-steel-bridge-to-be-completed-in-bongao-.html
*Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=806227&publicationSubCategoryId=67
*Wednesday, 22 February 2012 11:10
*Saturday, May 12, 2012
:by Nonong Santiago
:by philstar.com
 
 
Employees of the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau inspect dead hawksbill turtles for parasites and take tissue samples, too, for mitochondrial DNA testing, during an inspection of the marine species confiscated by joint government operatives from 12 Vietnamese off Pangutaran Island in Sulu last April 22. The suspected poachers are currently detained at the provincial jail in Tawi-Tawi, having been charged for violating the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 and the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. Aside from the 87 marine turtles, also found in the Malaysian-registered fishing vessel used by the Vietnamese were five bundles of black corals and about 600 kilograms of hammerhead fish, lapu-lapu (grouper) and squid.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
==More charges to be filed against Vietnamese fishermen==
*Source: http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=More-charges-to-be-filed-against-Vietnamese-fishermen&id=51466
*Thursday, May 10, 2012
:by Bettina Faye V. Roc
 
 
THE ENVIRONMENT department is set to file additional charges on the Vietnamese nationals caught allegedly poaching marine species off Sulu last month, this time for the violation of the Wildlife Act.
“This is a clear violation of international and local laws on wildlife, especially since most of the species caught are considered endangered, and they were killed or collected in the Sulu Sea Marine Ecoregion (SSME), which is a protected area,” said Environment Secretary Ramon Jesus P. Paje in a statement.
 
The Vietnamese fishermen were aboard a Malaysian-registered vessel when they were caught by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on April 22 off Pangutaran Island in Sulu. Upon inspection, the vessel was found to be loaded with five bundles of black corals, 87 pieces of hawksbill turtles and around 600 kilograms of hammerhead fish, lapu-lapu (grouper) and squid.
 
The poachers are currently detained at the Tawi-Tawi provincial jail. The BFAR had earlier filed against the men charges for violating provisions in Republic Act No. 8550, also known as the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, which prohibits the catching and taking of fish and other aquatic products by foreign fishing vessels in Philippine waters.
 
Meanwhile, collecting, hunting or possessing wildlife, their by-products and derivatives are violations of Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Act.
 
==La Aunor’s new film will showcase Tawi-Tawi as tourism destination==
*Source: http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/inside-stories/9913-la-aunors-new-film-will-showcase-tawi-tawi-as-tourism-destination.html
*Wednesday, May 9, 2012
:by NT-PIO/RVC/PIA-9 ZBST
 
 
Superstar Nora Aunor is making Tawi-Tawi shine as she takes pleasure filming her new movie in the province.
The Superstar and her co-stars and the film’screw have just concluded their shooting recently of Brillante Mendoza’s newfilm titled “Thy Womb”, a love drama portraying a Bajau couple’s sacrosanct relationship as husband and wife though unblessed with offspring.
 
The movie depicts the seafaring Bajau tribeof Tawi-Tawi, their culture and tradition and a précis that tells of a Bajao woman who is more than willing to endure personal sacrifice for the sake of hereternal love for her husband.


The controversial Cannes-film winningdirector Mendoza said in an interview that “this cultural and dramatic filmwould portray the people of Mindanao, especially, Tawi-Tawi and that they [thepeople of Mindanao] are [also] capable of loving.”


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi - Through the initiative of Gov. Sadikul Sahali, a P300 million modern steel bridge will soon be completed that will connect the island of Bongao to the mainland of Tawi-Tawi Province.
“That in spite of the troubles and conflictsevident in Mindanao, there are people here, who are capable of loving and peaceful as well,” Mendoza stressed.  
Sahali disclosed the money for the multi million peso project came from the national funds of the Department of Public Works and Highways under the helm of former DPWH secretary Hermoheges Ebdane.
The governor said the implementation of the bridge started early last year and was supposed to be completed on the month of July but was hampered due to incessant rains.


“The local DPWH said the project is now 80 percent finished. I hope they will complete the project as soon as possible as this will surely boost the socio-economic activities of the whole province,” Sahali emphasized.
He also said that the film would somehowconvey to the world the tourism potentials of Tawi-Tawi saying that this southern frontier of the country has peace and serenity with beautiful sitesworth visiting.
Sahali boasted the bridge’s completion will greatly enhance economic development of the populace because trading will be done by land transportation and not by sea crafts.


“Many times people living on the northern side of the island finds it difficult to transport their products by pumpboat because of big waves. With the bridge completion people can travel easier and faster using vehicles. So we can now travel from Bongao to the mainland and vice versa,” Sahali emphasized.
Mendoza also said that they have chosenTawi-Tawi as a location shooting because it delivers the scenario and the characters needed for the film.
For their part, Aunor and Roco, expressedtheir appreciation of Tawi-Tawi’s hospitality and said that they are captivated by the beauty of this southern province.


He said the main bridge has a length of 370 meters with two smaller steel bridges connecting the mainland to the island of Sanga-Sanga through the barangay of Lapid-Lapid.
Ms. Aunor plays the lead character as amidwife named Salehah and is co-starred by Bembol Roco as Bangas-an, Lovi Poeand Mercedes Cabral with support cast from the locals of Tawi-Tawi.  


Sahali, who was also former mayor of Panglima Sugala Municiplaity  said once completed the bridge will serve as a vital link of Bongao and other municipalities that will surely enhance commerce and industry which will result to progress.
Aunor flew in to Tawi-Tawi last April 14, toshoot the indie film, her first since returning from a hiatus in the UnitedStates. Shooting took place in at least 3 locations: the island-towns ofBongao, Sitangkai and Taganak. She left the province last April 28.
The active and visionary governor has also appropriated millions of pesos for the concreting of farm-to market-roads in the province for easy transport of goods by farmers and traders.


“If we have a modern bridge linking the province we should also have good roads for easy access,” Sahali continued.
Meanwhile, Provincial Information OfficerNash Tahang said that the local government officials and the locals ofTawi-Tawi was elated and honored and was grateful to the film-makers forchoosing the province to be the location for the Superstar’s new film.


Vice Governor Ruby Sahali said that thismovie will eventually help pump prime the exposure of the province’s tourism potentials not only for the local visitors influx, but more so, that of theforeigners.


“These are the days Tawi-Tawi shines with thesuperstar,” she said.
Moreover, Provincial Secretary Nurjay Sahali made thesame observation, saying that the film will help boost the tourism aspects ofthe beautiful and peaceful province, as most of the location shootings weretaken in Tawi-Tawi.


==Thespians in Tawi-Tawi==
*Source: http://www.tawitawi.net/thespians-in-tawi-tawi/
*Tuesday, May 8, 2012
:by  tawitawi.net




ACCLAIMED actor Bembol Roco and the great Nora Aunor just got back from a tedious but totally reinvigorating work assignment in the far-flung province of Tawi-Tawi in Mindanao.  The multiawarded actors immersed themselves for more than two weeks with the locals of the towns of Bongao and Sitangkai, where most of the scenes of the latest Brillante Mendoza film Thy Womb were shot.


We met up with both Roco and Aunor in Cebu, the final leg of their nonstop shoot for this much talked-about movie, where both recounted their unforgettable experiences in Tawi Tawi.


“Breathtaking” was how Roco described the Tawi-Tawi that he saw and experienced. “You feel like you are in a totally different world and a different time frame. The water is always clear and the marine life does not only sustain the day-to-day existence of the people but it also makes you realize that God is so generous with His many natural gifts to us.”


Roco added that although life there may appear difficult because much is stripped to the essentials, it’s the simplicity that will capture the heart of a visitor like him.  “Imagine taking a pump boat to the islands for countless hours, just gazing at the vastness of the ocean and the sky. Imagine living in stilt houses with no real toilets.  Imagine being with people who, despite their seeming poverty, can flash a smile like they are the happiest creatures on earth.  That was the Tawi-Tawi that has pierced my heart.”


==Tawi-Tawi Advocates Rubber Tree Cultivation==
For her part, Aunor, unquestionably the country’s One and Only Superstar, she admitted that she shed all inhibitions and doubt, plunging into her character right away the moment she stepped on the island.
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/352112/tawitawi-advocates-rubber-tree-cultivation
*February 21, 2012, 5:33pm
:by  NONOY E. LACSON


“Isa akong midwife dito na nagbabangka at dumadayo sa iba’t ibang lugar para magpaanak pero hindi ako mabiyayaan ng sarili kong anak [I play a midwife who travels from one place to another to deliver babies, but I can’t have my own child],” she volunteered. “Pagdating na pagdating namin ni Kuya Bembs  [her nickname for Roco], na-in love agad kami sa lugar at sa mga tao.  Mababait ang mga kababayan natin sa Tawi-Tawi. Simple lang sila pero masaya, kahit mahirap ang buhay.  Ibang-iba sa inire-report ng media na magulo at delikado doon. Peaceful sila at masisipag [The moment Bembol and I arrived, we immediately fell in love with the place and its people. The people of Tawi-Tawi are nice. They are simple and happy even if life seems difficult. It’s totally different from what the media sometimes report. They are peace-loving and industrious people],” she stressed.


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi, Philippines – The provincial government of Tawi-Tawi is advocating a massive planting of rubber trees as an alternative source of income for the farmers in the province.
She added, “S’yempre may mga security na naka-assign sa amin, hindi dahil sa delikado ang lugar kundi para maging smooth ang shooting namin doon. Pero wala kaming naging problema. Nag-cooperate lahat kaya naging maayos at masaya lahat. [We were provided with security not because it was a dangerous place but because we wanted the shoot to be smooth. Everyone was cooperative.]”


Tawi-Tawi Governor Sadikul Sahali made the call during the distribution of farm equipment and agri-fishery inputs Monday led by top officials of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DAF-ARMM) in this capital town.
Aunor shared that she had to learn to weave the native banig and constantly practice paddling a banca. “Gusto kasi ni direk Brillante na makatotohanan lahat kaya kelangan akong maging gamay sa mga gawain nila doon. Tingnan mo nga at sunog na sunog ako dahil namamangka ako kahit matirik ang araw. [Our director wants everything to be realistic so I had to do what they do there. Look at me, my skin is so sun-burnt because I had to paddle a banca even when the sun was scorching hot].”


Sahali said the provincial government is ready to allocate a substantial land area for a rubber nursery in the province where farmers can avail of rubber seedlings for planting.
Brillante Mendoza, who holds the distinction of being the only Filipino to have won a Cannes International Film Festival best director plum, only has good words for his two main actors.


For his part, DAF-ARMM Secretary Sangkula Tindick vowed to help the province in the propagation of rubber trees, as he disclosed that the ARMM had recently established a 10-hectare rubber nursery project at the Sta. Clara Breeding Station in Lamitan City, Basilan.
“Nora and Bembol are who they are because they are both true artists.  You see, I do not allow my actors to have scripts on the set. They know and understand their respective roles after every briefing and take everything to heart. They are thespians and I am so blessed having both of them in this film. They certainly make my work easier and more fulfilling,” Mendoza enthused.


Tindick said the nursery in Lamitan – the first of its kind in the ARMM, is expected to produce seven various clones of rubber seedlings for use of the rubber farmers or growers.
Altruistic to the core, Mendoza and his team headed by production head Larry Castillo and cinematographer Odyssey Flores flew to Tawi-Tawi hoping for the best and he told us that his team got more than what they expected. “The weather was perfect, the people were very cooperative, the local government of Tawi-Tawi was all out in its support to our vision for the project. The shoot went very, very well and I am simply grateful.”


Sahali said the fertile land and suitable climate in the province will make rubber planting viable in the area, like coconut and various fruit trees.
Now that the principal photography of the film is finished, Mendoza and his team will start the difficult phase of post-production with big smiles on their faces, knowing that this film will bring them far and do the country proud in the coming months.


He said that out of the three agricultural products, rubber tree is the best alternative for the farmers to cultivate because of its demand and prevailing prices in the local and world market.
Meanwhile, Nora Aunor and Bembol Roco will pursue their other acting assignments but this experience in Tawi-Tawi will surely remain in their hearts for a very long time.


As this developed, he urged farmers in the province to propagate rubber trees in order for them to have a higher income.
==Scuba diving training enhances MSU-Tawi-Tawi students’ skills==
*Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=424242
*Monday, May 7, 2012
:by  (PNA)
FPV/FMS/ssc


“Rubber tree is one of the best agricultural products that farmers can plant in the province since it can give them higher yields due to the prevailing prices it has in the national and international markets,” he explained.


He said that rubber latex could be collected every other day from an incised rubber tree, and can be sold at P75 per kilo, while the semi-processed or cooked rubber latex can be sold at P150 per kilo at the local market.
ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 7 (PNA) -– The Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO), in cooperation with the Tawi-Tawi Divers Club (TDC), has conducted a two-month introductory course in scuba diving for selected students of Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences.


Sahali said that a rubber farmer can collect as much as 500 kilos of latex per hectare of rubber trees per month, which can easily provide the farmers with an income of P37,500 per month – based on the prevailing market prices.
The training is relevant because Tawi Tawi is part of the coral triangle in Southeast Asian region, and there are more interesting coastal fishery resources and pristine beaches to explore in the province , even better than those in other places within the country and around the world.


It was learned that Tawi-Tawi has 107 islands and islets, with a combined land area of 1,197 square kilometers, and is blessed with generally good climate, with the months of August to November as rainy season.
TDC President Engr. Rosendo R. Reyes said the free training was participated in by at least 20 people, of which, 15 are students of MSU-TCTO and members of the Marine Bio & Environmental Sciences Students’ Association (MABESSA).


Tindick also agreed with Sahali’s claim that there is a need to transform the unproductive and idle lands of the province into agri-business ventures to help generate job opportunities for the local residents.
Reyes said this project with the MSU-TCTO was initiated as part of the club’s social responsibility “to draw strategic partnership with the academic institution like the MSU-TCTO that offers courses in marine biology and fisheries and environmental sciences.”


It was also learned that majority of farmers in the province are presently engaged in the planting of cassava and fruit-bearing trees, like mango, durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and also into seaweed farming.
He pointed out that TDC provides such training to students so that “they will utilize their skills, exposures and experiences especially in the conduct of their academic research in marine and environmental sciences.”


==A river once ran through it==
He added that conducting under water research studies require students to be scuba divers.
*Source: http://opinion.inquirer.net/23413/a-river-once-ran-through-it
*1:32 am | Monday, February 20th, 2012
:by  Noralyn Mustafa
Philippine Daily Inquirer


He said two dive masters-- Prof. Ramon Tangon and Rasul Sabal, assisted him in the training that ended March 31.


Finally, After 16 years, Navy Ensign Philip Pestaño will get justice. Sixteen years is a long time for the government to verify something that we in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi already knew right after news of Pestano’s murder broke out. The Senate and the United Nations found out the truth about the murder only after finishing their own investigations, but their findings amounted to nothing under the administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and it had to take a new ombudsman, Conchita Carpio-Morales, an appointee of President Aquino, to right something heartrending and unjust.
He emphasized that TDC would continue to participate on collaborative engagement with concerned agencies and NGOs in projects related to marine life.
The murder of the young Navy officer unmasked the military, political and bureaucratic connivance responsible for the environmental degradation in the South, particularly the destruction of its forests—yes, it was a conspiracy too powerful that nobody foolish enough dared to expose it. For aside from being used for gunrunning and carrying prohibited drugs, Navy ships were said to transport illegal logs—precious Philippine hardwood from the virgin forests of the southern islands.
But this is only part of a most dreadful and very uncomfortable truth: Sulu and even Tawi-Tawi—with what used to be their lush forests of hardwood and fruit trees, precious medicinal plants and herbs—will soon be erased from the face of the earth due to the merciless greed of the very people mandated to protect them.
I know of a house in Jolo built almost entirely with lumber from ilang-ilang trees.
Somebody who calls himself “Eryneon Wave” on our Facebook page has taken it upon himself to update us on what’s happening in Jolo by regularly posting pictures that speak louder than words. The more recent photos are, in his usual dry humor, captioned “waterways used as streets.” These were streets that those of us who grew up in Jolo never could imagine, not even in our worst nightmares, would someday get flooded.
“Any solutions?” Eryneon pleaded almost in desperation, because the picture showed only the most recent of a series of floods that hit the town of Jolo, the worst of which lasted for days and at peak reached eight to 10 feet high.
If solutions are to be found, one does not have to be a rocket scientist—as young people like to say—to pinpoint what needs to be done, although finding solutions to the problem and actually implementing them are two entirely different things.
Solving the problem of flooding in Jolo is not that difficult, for the solutions are very obvious in the problem itself: informal settlers building their dwellings on waterways, a poor garbage disposal system especially for non-biodegradables and a host of other problems common to almost all areas that now get flooded with every typhoon.
Yet a closer look will reveal a more complex tangle of factors that led to this present state, the most daunting of which are the powerful forces that have contributed to what can now be called a certified environmental disaster.
Worst of all, this has been going on for decades and you cannot implement quick fixes to a problem that has taken a life of its own.
The decades-long peace and order problem in Jolo forced many from the countryside to evacuate to the town whose land area is too small to accommodate that kind of instant population explosion. These evacuees had to look for available spaces on which to build their houses—some of them with enough means to build permanent ones, believing (and encouraged by political patrons) that they could not be driven away from where they have constructed permanent structures.
There used to be a river that ran through the town of Jolo, its waters coming from historical Bud Dahu. Homegrown researchers say that the  river gave the town its name.
If one were to trace the scant material evidence remaining, it is not farfetched that this claim may be true. Beside the river is a road, said to have been built by the early Chinese traders. The road starts from the docking area of a wharf that the Chinese also constructed, which to this day is known as Chinese Pier. Presumably, through this road, the Chinese brought their goods to the river.
Think of that scene in the movie “Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?” where pig-tailed Chinese helped Kulas, the main protagonist, to get to Manila on their banca filled with goods sailing down the Pasig, and you will have the picture.
Ganoon din noon in this river.  Ngayon, toilets have been built over it and garbage, mostly plastic, clog its flow. Its water is dark and murky, and just its stench can kill whatever life remains there.
In my childhood, a certain Mr. Viray, the owner of the lone bus company in town (which was all that we needed), operated a thriving fishpond  with water diverted from this river.
There used to be a pond, whose water came from the same spring in the same mountain, where the river drew its water. It was so clear that the community used to drink from it; there were boulders around it and a clump of slim bamboos at its edge.
I used to go and bathe in the pond when it was dark, hoping to catch a glimpse of the water fairy that the elders said guarded it. The informal settlers have covered its source of water with cement.
The same is true with the other source of the town’s water system—Bud Tumantangis, a source of pure spring water. The swimmers have long gone. The swimming pool is now almost a cesspool.


==Tawi-Tawi Pushes Socio-Economic Plan==
These project will include coral assessment, establishment and management of fish sanctuary, construction of artificial reef, Crown-of Thorns clean-up, coastal clean-up like scubasurero (garbage collector of the sea) and other projects and programs of similar considerations, especially those involving environmental concerns.
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/351866/tawitawi-pushes-socioeconomic-plan
*February 19, 2012, 3:44pm
:by NONOY E. LACSON 


Meanwhile, MSU-TCTO Chancellor Atty. Lorenzo R. Reyes underscored the significance of scuba diving to the academic program of the university.


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi – The provincial government of Tawi-Tawi has intensified its socio-economic agenda and infrastructure support programs aimed at attaining the much-needed development for the province, and to set free its constituents from the bandage of poverty and high cost of living.
He said he plans to make scuba diving as one subject area of study in the academic curriculum of the Department of Marine & Environmental Science of the university.


Tawi-Tawi Governor Sadikul Sahali has asked all provincial government offices to continue with their focus on programs and projects in order to help uplift the socio-economic condition of the people here.
“I have always encouraged the college of fisheries and environmental science to undertake more research studies in fisheries and marine biology as well as in environmental sciences because MSU-TCTO is a vocational institution by its mandates,’ he stressed.


Sahali said the recent kidnapping incident here could not serve as a factor for him to stop from implementing the socio-economic development agenda of the provincial government.
He shared his vision to make MSU-TCTO a center of excellence in fisheries and oceanographic studies, and to ensure that the graduates will be relevant and globally competitive.


“All plans and programs of the provincial government has to continue, and the kidnapping incident of Swiss national Lorenzo Vinciguerra and Dutchman Ewold Horn is not a factor for us to stop, considering that the incident is an isolated case,” Sahali said.
He also pointed out that Tawi-Tawi is considered a haven for research studies and that he expect that the college should be able to come up with more vital research proposals in which he assured that it would be his responsibility to find possible source of funding for any research proposal submitted.


While he admitted that the local government will continue to exert effort in locating the two kidnapped foreign nationals, the provincial government will continue to pursue its goals for the development of the province and reduce the poverty incidence here.
Moreover, Director for Coastal Resource Management Prof. Felimon Romero said that, “there’s a need to strengthen our environment and ecological system as this is our only potential source of eco-tourism for foreign investment in Tawi-Tawi.”


For her part, Vice Governor Ruby Sahali-Tan said the provincial legislative body will continue to support all programs and projects of the province that needs their support through various Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) resolutions.
“We are part of coral triangle in Southeast Asian region, and that what we have here in Tawi-Tawi is that we can find more interesting coastal fishery resources and pristine beaches to explore that we are proud to say is much better than those in other places within the country, including other places abroad,” he added.,


“We will always support the programs of Governor Sahali since we believe that all the programs and projects of the provincial government are geared towards the development of the province,” Tan said.
Meanwhile, the Office of MSU-SCTO Chancellor has donated to the club some ten pieces of junked steel cabinets that will be used as artificial reef in support to the national coral reef restoration program of government.


She also reported that a group of foreign investors had visited her office a day after the kidnapping incident for an investment conference.
As part of their commitment to the TDC, the trainees will install the cabinets to the seas near Mountain View Resort Beach at Barangay Pasiagan in Bongao.


Adding that they already agreed on some aspects of the investment, particularly the construction of solar panels and potable water supply to serve the needs of the people in far-flung villages and sitios of the 11 towns of Tawi-Tawi.
TDC said the areas that are devastated by dynamite and cyanide fishing are the targets of coral reef restoration.


For his part, Bongao Mayor Jasper Que also reported that a group of Malaysian traders had visited his office recently and informed him of their plan to establish a trading center in this town.
MABESSA President Yunadzmal Ong, moreover, expressed his gratitude to the TDC President and MSU Chancellor for making the scuba training possible that helps in their quest for scientific exploration of the seas and the oceans of Tawi-Tawi.


Que said the trading category that the Malaysian traders would like to establish is similar to barter trading, where they will bring goods from their country to this town and bring back to Malaysia other products.
==Introducing Tawi-Tawi, Sulu folk to healthcare==
*Source: http://www.tawitawi.net/introducing-tawi-tawi-sulu-folk-to-healthcare/
*Sunday, May 6, 2012
:by  Edwin O. Fernandez


The system, he said, is viable since the local government here will have an extra tax collection from the imported products that will be brought in, at the same time, it will also provide job opportunities to the local people here, he said.


The mayor here said the stable peace and order condition of this town and the province in general has lured the traders to conduct trading with this capital town.
Health services know no boundaries Workers brought together by a Department of Health (DOH) campaign to bring medical services to the people of Tawi-Tawi sweltered in 36-degree-Celsius heat, endured hours of sea travel, ignored threats of kidnapping to attend to people who have not seen a doctor all their lives.


His office, he said, will have a final conference with the traders very soon in order for them to start the trading operation.
The campaign had been successful last year, bringing medical and dental care to the people of Mapun and Turtle Islands in Tawi-Tawi, two of the remotest places in the country.


==Tawi—Tawi promotes tourism, downplays foreigners’ kidnap==
Last month, the health caravan spent five days bringing services to people in the towns of Languyan and Sapa-Sapa where diseases have been left untreated and ailments are often blamed on supernatural causes.
*Source: http://zamboangatimes.ph/top-news/3871-tawitawi-promotes-tourism-downplays-foreigners-kidnap-.html
*Saturday, 18 February 2012 14:05
:by NONOY E. LACSON 


Never mind if the campaign name smacks of politicking (“Alay ni RG-Kasama Mo Si Sec,” which translates to Alay ni Regional Governor-Kasama Mo Si Secretary), it was able to bring surgeries, dental work and lessons on safe motherhood and reproduction to areas where doctors have never been known to exist.


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi –  The provincial government here  through the provincial  tourism office will continue to  showcase to domestic and foreign tourists the many splendid  tourist destinations  and tourism potential sites in this province  after it noted the continued  arrivals of  tourists in this town.
The campaign also brought essential information on health, maternal and child care, nutrition, reproduction and birth spacing.


“What we need now is a serious and  aggressive promotion of our  tourism attractions, destinations and potentials and  add more colors  to get the much-needed boost in  the tourism field,” Sahali told  reporters here.
It was merged with the DOH’s “Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan” (Journey to Health) that the department has been bringing to remote communities with barely any access to health clinics much less hospitals.


Sahali  also downplayed the kidnapping of Lorenzo Vinciguerra, a Swiss national, 47, and Dutchman Ewold Horn, 52, on February 1 at  the coast of Panglima Sugala, saying that the incident was just an “isolated case.”
The blind can see


“There is no  problem  in accommodating  tourists in this province  because there are enough good hotels and resorts in the  this capital town — Bongao,” he said.
“Ignorance in health is not bliss, it kills,” said Kadil Sinolinding Jr., health secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).


Meanwhile, Vice Governor Ruby Sahali-Tan also said  the 11 municipalities  of Tawi-Tawi will also join in  showcasing the many tourist destinations it has in the different towns as they  too guarantee the  safety of  the visiting tourists.
While using what sounds like a self-serving theme “Sa Biyaheng Kalusugan Kasama Mo Si Sec” obviously referring to Sinolinding, the medical mission was able to bring together health workers and volunteers who helped the people of Tawi-Tawi realize that healthcare is not a guessing game.


Bongao, she said, is  known as the microcosm of religious and cultural diversities. The Bongao Peak showcases a breathtaking view of the nearby Sabah, Malaysia. The Bolobok Cave is one of the oldest caves (since 800 AD) located  at  Barangay Lakit-Lakit, Bongao. It is also said to be the original settlement of its early inhabitants.
As a result, more than 1,000 people received free cataract and other eye surgeries in Languyan town alone. At least 25 people who have been rendered blind by cataracts were able to see clearly again. Some of the people had minor surgeries and received free dental and medical services.


The town of Simunul is  the site of the oldest mosque in the Philippines and home to the revered Sheikh Makdum, the  pioneer in the spread of the Islam in the country. It  was at Tubig-Indangan, Simunul where the first Muslim missionary Sheik Karimul Makdum set foot to build the first mosque in the country in  1380 AD, the vice governor said.
From Languyan, the DOH-ARMM continued the campaign to Sapa-Sapa, reached by boat after a six-hour journey, where free cataract and other eye surgeries were given to the poor, restoring eyesight to many who had gone blind.


Sapa-Sapa, Sibutu is also known as  the  home to descendants of Malay royalty of the Federal State of Borneo. The towns of Sitangkai, South Ubian,  Tandubas and Turtle Islands are known as the  “Venice of the South,” she said.
Bilateral tubal ligation and other minor surgeries were also provided as part of the project.


As this developed, Gov. Sahali  also lured tourists  to  experience underwater activities like scuba diving, swimming and snorkeling  at the white sand beaches of Sangay Siapo Island; Panampangan Island; Tango Island and Saluag Island.
Risky mission


Tawi-Tawi is irregular in shape, with splashes of fine  white sand beaches  and has 307 islands and islets, 88 of which is characterized by extensive reefs.
Sapa-Sapa municipality is one of the island towns of Tawi-Tawi, where people never had access to health services because of two things—they live too far from the nearest clinic and it was too dangerous for them to travel.


Sahali maintained  that Tawi-Tawi is a peaceful and safe province in this part of the country.
In the last three years, at least four health workers in Tawi-Tawi and Sulu have either been kidnapped or harmed by criminal elements.


First-class  and high valued fish are abundant in this province including crustaceans, lobsters, curacha and coconut and mud  crabs due to its fair tropical climate.
At the latest medical mission, villagers from far-flung island communities took pump boats to reach the town center to avail themselves of health-care services—antenatal care, child healthcare, vitamin A supplements and immunization.


The province composed of four ethnic groups- Sama; Jama Mapun; Tausug and Badjaos, the rest are Christians and indigenous groups. The prevailing dialect is Sinama.
The campaign also seized the opportunity to provide information on healthcare through exhibits, classes, songs, dances and story-telling sessions that were found entertaining by the people whose communities are not reached by cable TV or regular radio broadcasts.


==Tawi-Tawi To Showcase Tourism Sites==
DOH launched its Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan simultaneously with the medical mission in Sapa-Sapa.
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/351680/tawitawi-to-showcase-tourism-sites
*February 17, 2012, 3:58pm
:by NONOY E. LACSON 


“I cannot allow myself to just sit and wait when I know that there are a lot of blind people out there who survive in darkness and misery, and mothers and children die needlessly just because they are poor,” said Sinolinding.


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi, Philippines – The provincial government of Tawi-Tawi, through its Provincial Tourism Office, continues to showcase its various tourist destinations after noting the constant arrival of local and foreign tourists in this bustling capital town.
“Poverty is already social injustice, making people hopeless. Inaction aggravates their condition,” he said. Sinolinding is one of two members of the ARMM Cabinet who had been retained by acting ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman when he assumed office in December 2011.


“What we need now is a serious and aggressive promotion of our tourism attractions, destinations, and potentials, and add more colors to get the much-needed boost in the tourism sector,” Governor Sadikul Sahali said.
Sinolinding thanked the people who shared their time and effort for the medical mission.


Sahali also downplayed the kidnapping of Lorenzo Vinciguerra, a Swiss national, 47, and Dutchman Ewold Horn, 52, on February 1 at the coast of Panglima Sugala, saying that the incident is just an “isolated case.”
Before the Tawi-Tawi mission, ARMM health workers had brought similar services to Sumisip, Basilan, with more than 200 people receiving cataract and glaucoma surgeries. Surgeries were held at Sumisip District Hospital which, after 13 years of being nonfunctional, was revived by Sinolinding in September last year.


“There is no problem in accommodating tourists in this province because there are enough hotels and resorts in this capital town of Bongao,” said.
Sinolinding said he was so elated seeing people very grateful for the services.


For her part, Tawi-Tawi Vice Governor Ruby Sahali-Tan also said that the 11 municipalities of the province will also join in showcasing the many tourist destinations in their respective areas, even as they also guarantee the safety of visiting tourists in their respective municipalities.
“From the cries of hopelessness and injustices to jubilation and enlightenment, and from eyes and hearts laden with apathy and ignorance to eyes filled with hope and understanding—such could be the transformation now in the people of ARMM,” Sinolinding said.


Bongao, she said, is known as the microcosm of religious and cultural diversity.
“Taken for granted, our mothers and children were dying unnecessarily because of poor health service deliveries,” he added.


She said the Bongao Peak on this island town showcases a breathtaking view of nearby Sabah in Malaysia, while the Bolobok Cave in Barangay Lakit-Lakit is one of the oldest caves – since 800 A.D.
The Journey to Health success has led to the commitment of DOH-ARMM to bring its health caravan to the farthest islands of Muslim Mindanao, to include the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Sulu.


It was in Tubig-Indangan, Simunul, where the first Muslim missionary Sheik Karimul Makdum set foot to build the first mosque in the country in 1380 A.D., the lady vice governor here said.
“No one can imagine how satisfied these poor people were after the mission,” Sinolinding, an eye doctor, said.


Sapa-Sapa in Sibutu is also known as the home of the descendants of Malay royalty of the Federal State of Borneo.
==Screen queens gear up for their ‘vanishing acts’==
*Source: http://entertainment.inquirer.net/39029/screen-queens-gear-up-for-their-vanishing-acts
*Saturday, May 5, 2012
:by  Rito P. Asilo


The towns of Sitangkai, South Ubian, Tandubas, and Turtle Islands are known as the “Venice of the South,” she said.


As this developed, the governor also invited the tourists to experience the various underwater activities, like scuba diving, swimming, and snorkeling, at the same time enjoy the white sand beaches of Sangay Siapo Island, Panampangan Island, Tango Island, and Saluag Island.
Tinseltown’s acting icons remain at the top of their game by choosing projects that don’t just make them emerge smelling like roses at the box office, but also show off their dramatic chops, to keep their followers’ interest high. For their latest projects, top female superstars, Vilma Santos and Nora Aunor, are backed up by directors whose filmmaking acumen can guarantee that their projects aren’t the usual stuff and fluff.
For the Star for All Seasons, risk-taking is key to her sustained popularity. Vilma told us she didn’t want to be seen in hackneyed variations of the same themes and stories—which explains why she decided to do Chito Roño’s chiller, “The Healing,” as a follow-up to Olivia Lamasan’s 2009 dramedy blockbuster, “In My Life.” Moreover, it’s been almost 40 years since Vilma last dabbled in the horror genre via “Kamay na Gumagapang” and “Anak ng Aswang”—when she was only 19 years old!
We’re also looking forward to Nora Aunor’s comeback movie, “Thy Womb”—which wrapped up its Tawi-Tawi and Cebu shoots last week—because Cannes-winning director, Brillante Mendoza, is helming it. Last seen on the big screen in the US-shot 2006 indies, “Ingrata” and “Care Home,” the Superstar portrays a Badjao midwife in the film that also stars Bembol Roco and Lovi Poe.
Campy turn
American screen queens are also gearing up for their thespic “vanishing acts”: After Julia Roberts’ campy turn as Snow White’s power-grabbing, evil-queen nemesis in Tarsem Singh’s “Mirror, Mirror,” it’s Angelina Jolie’s turn to make life a living hell for another fairy-tale princess.


He described Tawi-Tawi as irregular in shape, with splashes of fine white sand beaches, and has 307 islands and islets, 88 of which are characterized by extensive reefs.
In Robert Stromberg’s “Maleficent,” Brad Pitt’s better half is cast as the proud and vengeful sorceress who takes offense at not being invited to the christening of Princess Aurora aka Sleeping Beauty (Elle Fanning), the only daughter of King Stefan (Jude Law). If Jolie portrays Maleficent the way she played Evelyn Salt, whoever’s portraying Aurora’s knight in shining armor has his work cut out for him!
For her part, Roberts is relying on the jump from stage to screen of Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer-winning dark comedy, “August: Osage County,” and Larry Kramer’s Tony-winning autobiographical HIV/AIDS drama, “The Normal Heart,” to boost her acting cachet.
In Ryan Murphy’s (“Glee”) screen adaptation of the 1980s-set “The Normal Heart,” Julia plays wheelchair-bound Dr. Emma Brookner, who helps gay activist, Ned Weeks (Mark Ruffalo), raise awareness about the deadly (then unidentified) viral disease that was killing gay men.
Level of difficulty
The level of difficulty gets higher for Julia in “August,” where she portrays Barbara Fordham, the 46-year-old eldest daughter of Beverly and Violet Weston who’s forced to come home when her alcoholic father goes missing. She hasn’t visited her parents in years, because she doesn’t get along well with her shrewd, prescription drug-addicted mother.
The film’s emotionally charged scenes present exciting dramatic possibilities for cinema’s Pretty Woman, not the least of which is the fact that her combative mother is played by—Meryl Streep!
And, Catherine Zeta-Jones revisits her musical-theater roots via Adam Shankman’s big-screen version of the stage musical, “Rock of Ages,” where she will perform Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot.”
The anticipated movie musical has a bigger come-on, however: Tom Cruise’s latest (and very bold) attempt at reinvention. In its motion-picture soundtrack, Cruise will be rendering Guns N’ Roses’ “Paradise City” and Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me”—not the easiest tunes to sing, that’s for sure. If that isn’t gutsy, we don’t know what is!


Sahali maintained that Tawi-Tawi is a peaceful and safe province in this part of the country.
==Tawi-Tawi enchants Nora Aunor yet again==
*Source: http://entertainment.inquirer.net/38871/tawi-tawi-enchants-nora-aunor-yet-again
*Friday, May 4, 2012
:by  Bayani San Diego Jr.


First-class and high-valued fish are abundant in this province, including crustaceans, like lobsters, the exotic kuratsa, and the coconut and mud crabs, attributing this to the province’s fair tropical climate.


Sahali said the province has four ethnic groups – the Sama, Jama Mapun, Tausug, and Badjaos, while the rest are Christians and indigenous groups.


The prevailing dialect is Sinama, the vice governor added.
It wasn’t Nora Aunor’s first time in Tawi-Tawi. Still she felt seduced by the island’s pristine beauty.
The singer-actress, known as the country’s Superstar, recalled that she briefly visited the island on the country’s southernmost tip years ago.
“Para sa kampanya ni Erap (former President Joseph Estrada),” she recounted. “Pero sandali lang. Hindi ako nagtagal.”
For her latest Tawi-Tawi “adventure,” she totally “immersed” herself, staying over two weeks, from April 14 to 30, for the shooting of Brillante Mendoza’s latest work, “Thy Womb.”
Mendoza won best director for “Kinatay” at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival in 2009.
“Thy Womb” is scheduled to premiere at an A-list international film fest.
Little dialogue
The indie film marks her big-screen comeback after eight years, Aunor said. She had appeared in indie productions like Suzette Ranillo’s “Care Home” and Joey Gonzales’ “Ingrata” (both in 2006) during her stay in the United States. But “Thy Womb” is her biggest film since Maryo J. de los Reyes’ “Naglalayag” in 2004.
“Na-miss ko ang pag-arte,” she told Inquirer Entertainment in an interview held upon her return to Manila on May 1.


==The Dangers of Philippine Birdwatching==
She said that she hit it off with Mendoza, who shares her artistic principles. “Magaling talaga si Direk Brillante. Ang gusto niya natural ang acting. Wala masyadong dialogue pero taos-puso.”
*Source: http://www.asiasentinel.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4234&Itemid=189
In the movie, she plays a midwife who serves the seafaring Badjao and other indigenous tribes in Tawi-Tawi.
*WEDNESDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 2012
“Bilang kumadrona, ako lang ang nagpapaanak sa mga nanay doon. For the first two days, nag-aral kami na mag-sagwan at mag-habi ng banig,” she recounted.
:by Criselda Yabes  
Mindanao reality
The experience opened her eyes to both the promising and disheartening realities in that part of Mindanao. “Mababait ang mga tao doon. Talagang inalagaan kami. Nakita ko kung gaano kaganda ang Tawi-Tawi. Peaceful naman. Naging biktima lang sila ng mga maling balita,” she explained. “Sabi nila may mga planong gawin itong tourist destination.”
Their hosts, Gov. Sadikul Sahali and his wife Juana and daughter Vice Gov. Ruby Sahali and son Nurjay Sahali, assisted by the Philippine Marines and the Philippine National Police, made sure that the entire cast and crew remained safe during their stay, Aunor said.
She plans to return their kindness by asking friends from the industry to help the people in the small villages where they shot the film—specifically, Sitangkai, known as the “Venice of the Philippines.”
“Nag-shooting kami doon sa mga bahay na nakatayo sa dagat,” she said. “Gusto ko sanang mabigyan sila ng isang health center, sa tulong ng mga kaibigan natin dito sa Maynila.”
Playing a midwife, she saw with her own eyes the residents’ most pressing needs. “Kailangan nila ng gamot. ’Pag may manganganak, kailangan pang mag-bangka para makapunta sa ospital,” she said.
As expected, she and her co-stars — Bembol Roco, Lovi Poe and Mercedes Cabral—were mobbed by the residents.
“Natutuwa sila na nabisita namin sila at gumawa kami ng isang pelikula tungkol sa buhay nila … para naman malaman ng Pilipinas at ng buong mundo ang tunay nilang kalagayan,” she pointed out.
Aunor said she and her co-stars had no qualms about roughing it in the southern province. “Walang pa-istaran. Pantay-pantay kaming lahat. Parang kaming magkakapatid sa set. Sama-sama sa hirap at ginhawa,” she said. “Nakisama pati ang panahon. Kung kailangan sa shoot ang ulan, umulan. Pag kailangan maaraw, umaraw!”
She remembered traveling by boat for almost 14 hours to reach one location, Turtle Islands. “Doon na kami natulog sa bangka,” she said.
Down-to-earth
Poe said that the Superstar took pains not to intimidate her co-workers. Cabral agreed: “She’s down-to-earth. Motherly. I was in my dressing room once, fixing my stuff, and someone knocked.”


When Cabral opened the door, she saw the Superstar holding a bowl of noodle soup. “She gave it to me,” Cabral said. “I was really touched. She made me realize that not all superstars are air-headed snobs. It’s a shame that other so-called stars, some who are not even as big as her, have lousy attitude.”
Aunor said that she enjoyed working with her castmates. “Sabi ko kay Mercedes: Ang dami ko nang anak-anakan. Magagaling na artista sina Mercedes at Lovi. At mababait.”
Although far from Manila, word on the campaign to declare her a National Artist had reached her.
“Natutuwa ako na isa ako sa mga napili. Pero marami pang mas karapat-dapat na parangalan sa ating industriya,” she remarked. “Kung sakaling ibigay sa akin, isa itong malaking karangalan at magpapasalamat ako. Pero kung hindi, matatanggap ko rin.”
Aunor is proud that Filipino filmmakers are making headway abroad. “It’s about time,” she said. “Dapat nga matagal na ’yan. Sana nga magkaisa na tayo at imbes na harangan ay tulungan natin ang isa’t isa na mapansin ang ating mga pelikula sa labas ng Pilipinas.”
Aunor will celebrate her 59th birthday on May 21 in the US.
She is set to leave for Boston on May 19 for her throat surgery on May 23. “Sana nga maging okay na ang boses ko,” she said.


Birds, bandits meet with ominous consequences
==Scuba Diving training enhances MSU-Tawi-Tawi students’ skills in marine, environmental science==
*Source: http://piazampen.blogspot.com/2012/05/scuba-diving-training-enhances-msu-tawi.html
*Thursday, May 3, 2012
:by  Rene V. Carbayas


On Feb. 1, on the isolated backwater Philippine island of Tawi-Tawi, two European men went hunting for some of the world’s rarest birds. Their passion as birdwatchers got them captured by five gunmen who took them hostage and destroyed their cameras, which contained proof of what only a few people in the world have ever seen.


Some 5,000 Filipino soldiers have been searching the region for the two, 52-year-old Elwold Hom of Holland and Lorenzo Vinciguerra, 47, of Switzerland. The army believes they are somewhere within 2,000 hectares of jungle on Tawi-Tawi. Meantime the kidnapers – or people posing as the kidnapers – have demanded that the police and army pull out of the area, a haven for Islamic separatists. Others suspect the kidnapers could be common bandits who sell their prey to Islamist rebels.


The story thus has several different facets– of the inability of the government to impose law and order on a region with a reputation for kidnaping, piracy and conflict, of the possibility that the Moro National Liberation Front or Abu Sayyaf captured the two as a part of their campaign to drive the government out of Mindanao – or of the foolhardy bravery of birdwatchers the world over who are willing to risk life and limb for their so-called life lists of observed birds.  
ISABELA CITY, Basilan, May 3 (PIA) – The Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO) in cooperation with the Tawi-Tawi Divers Club (TDC) has successfully conducted a two-month introductory course to scuba diving to selected students of Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences.


In the case of Elwold Hom and Lorenzo Vinciguerra, it is the latter that matters. They are among avid birdwatchers who come to the Philippines against the odds, although they appear to be the first to be captured. The Wild Bird Club of the Philippines is considerably more prudent, not allowing its 200-odd members to stray into regions known for having been the site of battles and rebel strongholds.  
The free training that culminated last March 31 was participated by at least 20 people, of which, 15 are students of MSU-TCTO and members of the Marine Bio & Environmental Sciences Students’ Association (MABESSA).


Their Filipino guide and photographer, Ivan Sarenas, a noted birdwatcher in his own right and a member of the Wild Bird Club, escaped by leaping from the outrigger and swimming to safety where local fishermen rescued him.  
TDC President Engr. Rosendo R. Reyes said that this project with the MSU-TCTO was initiated as part of the club’s social responsibility “to draw strategic partnership with the academic institution like the MSU-TCTO that offers courses in marine biology and fisheries and environmental sciences.”


“They wanted to see the world’s rarest hornbills before they grow old,” Sarenas said. He is one of two people previously known to have photographed the Sulu Hornbills, luminous black birds that can only be found on the island and are believed to be the last of their kind left on earth.  
Reyes pointed out that TDC provides such training to students so that “they will utilize their skills, exposures and experiences especially in the conduct of their academic research in marine and environmental sciences.” He added that conducting under water research studies require students to be scuba divers.


There are thought to be about 20 pairs of the hornbills left, according to a survey made about 10 years ago. The birds have been exterminated in Sulu, a chain of islands near Borneo – according to the ‘red list’ of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Sulu and Tawi-Tawi supposedly are the only two places on earth to find the hornbills and the stunning Bleeding Heart pigeon as well, which has not been seen or collected since the early 1900s.  
He said that two Dive Masters, Prof. Ramon Tangon and Rasul Sabal were assisting him in the training. He emphasized that TDC would continue to participate on collaborative engagement with concerned agencies and NGOs in projects related to coral assessment, establishment and management of fish sanctuary, construction of artificial reef, Crown-of Thorns Clean-up, coastal clean-up like scubasurero (garbage collector of the sea) and other projects and programs of similar considerations, especially those involving environmental concerns.


Paradoxically, it is these dangerous regions that make areas of the Philippines some of the best birdwatching areas anywhere. It is where less dedicated individuals would never dare set foot. The abduction of the birdwatchers has raised the number of foreigners kidnapped in the region since the beginning of 2011 to 10.  
Meanwhile, MSU-TCTO Chancellor Atty. Lorenzo R. Reyes, in his message underscored the significance of scuba diving to the academic program of the university. He said that he is planning to make scuba diving as one subject area of study in the academic curriculum of the Department of Marine & Environmental Science of the university.


Five, an Australian, two Malaysian traders, an Indian married to a Filipina and a Japanese male, are still in captivity along with three abducted Filipinos.  
“I have always encouraged the college of fisheries and environmental science to undertake more research studies in fisheries and marine biology as well as in environmental sciences because MSU-TCTO is a vocational institution by its mandates, he stressed.


The abductors of the Australian, 53-year-old Warren Rodwell, are demanding US$2 million for his release.  
He shared his vision to make MSU-TCTO a center of excellence on fisheries and oceanographic studies and to ensure that the graduates will be relevant and globally competitive. He pointed out, further, that Tawi-Tawi is considered a haven for research studies and that he wishes to expect also that the college should be able to come up with more vital research proposals in which he assured that it would be his responsibility to find possible source of funding for any research proposal submitted.


Such spots actually enhance the chances of survival of rare birds rather than in other open or populated habitats, a place where they are likely to be hunted, poached, captured, displaced from excessive logging and mining, and for reasons that tell the country’s culture of destruction and lack of awareness for the wildlife.  
Moreover, Director for Coastal Resource Management Prof. Felimon Romero said that “there’s a need to strengthen our environment and ecological system as this is our only potential source of eco-tourism for foreign investment in Tawi-Tawi.”


The Mindanao south, of which Tawi-Tawi and Sulu are a part, is host to many of the estimated 200 endemic birds in the country, more than a third out of its total 614 species, comparably bigger than other countries in Southeast Asia. The most famous of its birds is the Philippine Eagle, a magnificent bird that is one of the three largest eagles on earth. It is also known as the Monkey-Eating Eagle because of its hunting prowess. Others in the region include the Cinnamon Ibon, the Red-Eared Parrotfinch, the Black-Headed Tailorbird.
“We are part of coral triangle in Southeast Asian region, and that what we have here in Tawi-Tawi is that we can find more interesting coastal fishery resources and pristine beaches to explore that we are proud to say is much better than those in other places within the country, including other places abroad,” he added.,  


But with the loss of habitat left unchecked, the Philippines has become the zone other migratory birds avoid, judging from the falling numbers of their species over the years – migrants from the Eurasian mainland and some from Siberia.  
Meanwhile, the Office of MSU-SCTO Chancellor has donated to the club about ten pieces of junked steel cabinets that will be used as artificial reef in support to the national coral reef restoration program of government.  As part of their commitment to the TDC, the trainees will install the cabinets to the seas near Mountain View Resort Beach at Barangay Pasiagan in Bongao.  


Anna Gonzales, president of the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, offered a striking theory as to why conflict areas are safer for the birds.  
TDC said the areas that are devastated by dynamite and cyanide fishing are the targets of coral reef restoration.


“Perhaps the armed rebels will not use their bullets on the birds,” she said. Offbeat as that may sound, it lends some reason as to why the treasures of the Philippine wildlife are forcing the best of the naturalist adventurers to take risks.  
MABESSA President Yunadzmal Ong, moreover, expressed his gratitude to the TDC President and MSU Chancellor for making the scuba training possible that helps in their quest for scientific exploration of the seas and the oceans of Tawi-Tawi.


In many parts of the gun-happy country, it is common to shoot whatever moves, a predatory human predilection carried over from the colonial years and currently ingrained as a disturbing habit in regard to the life of the birds, other conservationists say. In schools, Filipinos were generally taught about the prominent wildlife elsewhere but not of their own. This and poverty have worsened the fate of the Philippine birds.  
Among the successful trainees include the 15 students from the MSU-TCTO, namely: Adzmil Ledinil, Aharul, Almyra Samimi, Arthur Attuh, Delmar Asanol, Ibkar Salip Marijan, Joemary Alpha, Kara Habibon, Shaima Abdul, Sherelyn Abdul, Willy Rafales, Yunadzmal N. Ong, Maria Mita Fe Beringuel, Mira Luna Lagao and Nuradzmar Sali;  the three personnel from Bongao Water District—Rommel Nunal, Jose Baldevino and Dante Delfinado; and the PMAer,  ILt. Charles Dennis Tan from the Philippine Marines. (MSU-TCTO/PIA-9 ZBST)


The Philippine Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act calls for a state policy to guard the wildlife species and their habitats for ecological balance and biodiversity, but little of that has been shown in action. One example is the wetlands of Manila Bay, of which one part had been declared a conservation area for bird-watching and biodiversity until recently, when a ‘master plan’ to reclaim 600 hectares of the bay stretching to both north and south surfaced. Environmentalists, growing in small numbers, are hoping to stop it with protests.  
==Oslob, Cebu whale shark in indie film==
*Source: http://www.tawitawi.net/oslob-cebu-whale-shark-in-indie-film/
*Wednesday, May 2, 2012
:by  tawitawi.net


There’s much more of the country’s 7,000 islands to see for birding, but it is largely a struggle for enthusiasts. It means going far and deep into the thickets of the forests, with birds fleeing and hiding out of sight in the open space for fear of being caught or hunted. At best birds frequently seen in the cities are the Eurasian Sparrows, commonly known as the ‘mice with wings’ that are garbage scavengers.


Ornithologists say the Philippines remains ‘under-birded,’ meaning there is more potential to be studied, that birds like hornbills, woodpeckers, and others could be broken down into sub-species endemic to the country.


“Has it been ingrained in the birds that the Philippines is a dangerous place?” asked Michael Lu, a businessman and founding member of the bird club. “You can go anywhere in this country and you will see habitat destruction.” He has plenty examples to cite, including a former paper mill zone where hunters and trespassers used to kill hornbills, filling up sacks with the dead to be consumed as food or sold in markets.
CEBU CITY – Oslob’s whale sharks will become even more famous.


Criselda Yabes is a Philippine journalist and avid birdwatcher. She can be reached at cdyabes@yahoo.com.
The sharks will play a “cameo role” in director Brillante Mendoza’s independent film, which he said he plans to submit as an entry in the Cannes Film Festival in France.


==Tawi-tawi Tourism==
The film is about a couple from Tawi-Tawi in Mindanao who have been trying to conceive, but were not blessed with a child.
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/351357/basilan-agenda
*February 14, 2012, 5:57pm
:by Nonoy E. Lacson


It stars Nora Aunor and Bembol Roco.


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi — Local and foreign tourist arrivals here are continuing in the province and local traders in this capital town are continuing their trade despite the recent kidnapping incident that have shaken the province early this month. Gov. Sadikul Sahali said the provincial tourism department has recorded continued arrivals of local ad foreign tourists in this capital town despite the kidnapping of a Dutch and a Swiss wildlife photographers off the coast of Panglima Sugala in this province. Sahali said the kidnapping of Lorenzo Vinciguerra, 47, Swiss national, and Dutchman Ewold Horn, 52, did not affect so much the tourism industry of the province.
One of the few scenes that will be shot in Cebu will feature Oslob town and the sharks that have gained popularity worldwide.


==Kidnapping no effect on tourism==
The full feature movie “Thy Womb” is not a movie about the whale sharks, the director said, “but they will appear in a side scene.”
*Source: http://www.tempo.com.ph/2012/kidnapping-no-effect-on-tourism/#.TzjT906PXJc
*Feb 13th, 2012
:by  JUN RAMIREZ


“Parang isa na rin itong paraan para ma-showcase natin ang ating culture, and the things we are proud of, like the whale sharks of Oslob,” Mendoza said in an interview aired over radio dyAB on Sunday.


He said that 95 percent of the film was shot in Tawi-Tawi, and they plan to start filming in Oslob soon.


Manila, Philippines – The recent abduction of two foreigners in Tawi-Tawi hardly affected the influx of foreign tourists into the country.
In a phone interview, Oslob Mayor Ronald Guaren said he has not heard from Brillantes yet, but he is open to having the sharks and his town featured in a film if this will benefit them.
According to statistics from the Bureau of Immigration (BI), a total of 83,367 foreigners and Balikbayans arrived in the country from Feb. 2 to Feb. 5, a few days after bandits kidnapped Swiss nationals Lorenzo Vinciguerra and Ewold Horn in Tawi-Tawi.
BI statistics also showed that a total of 19,505 foreigners and Balikbayans arrived at the Ninoy Aquino Interrnational Airport during the four-day period.
On a nationwide scale, the statistics showed that 11,980 Koreans, 9,355 Americans and 5,116 Japanese arrived in the country in the same period.
Chinese nationals are next in the list, followed by Australians, Canadians, Taiwanese, and Malaysians.
BI officials said the statistics prove that there is a continuing influx of foreigners and Balikbayans into the country despite the string of negative travel advisories from Western countries.
They said an average of 10,000 tourists arrived at daily at the NAIA, the country’s premiere port.
Department of Tourism (DoT) officials also downplayed the effect of the advisories, citing the 3.9 million tourists who arrived in the country last year compared to the 3.7 million who came in 2010.


==5,000 comb Tawi-Tawi in search of kidnapped Europeans==
He said there are no guidelines yet in having the sharks appear in advertisements or movies. For now, what the Municipal Government allows is filming for research work and documentation of the sharks.
*http://globalnation.inquirer.net/25581/5000-comb-tawi-tawi-in-search-of-kidnapped-europeans
*1:47 pm | Saturday, February 11th, 2012
by: Julie S. Alipala
Inquirer Mindanao


“We’ll see what the director’s plans and intentions are. If it will be beneficial to the town in terms of promoting tourism and care for the sharks, of course, we will allow them to come here and shoot,” Guaren told Sun.Star Cebu.


ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines—Some 5,000 people from security forces and volunteers are now combing the western part of Tawi-Tawi in search of the two European birdwatchers abducted by unidentified gunmen on February 1 as their governments are increasingly worried about their safety, a top provincial official said.
Brillante is a multi-awarded director whose works have been recognized here and abroad. He won the award for Best Director for “Kinatay” at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival. His film “Lola” also won the award for Best Film at the 6th Dubai International Film Festival.
“We have more than 3,000 hectares of forest here and the mission of that team is to make sure every part is inspected,” Governor Sadikul Sahali told the Inquirer by telephone on Friday.
The province is made up of 300 islands, the major ones of which include Tawi-Tawi, Sanga-Sanga, Bongao, Simunul and Sibutu.
Sahali said the authorities were trying their best to locate Dutchman Ewold Horn and Swiss Lorenzo Vinciguerra, and it was hoped that the deployment of more security forces and volunteers would yield positive results.
Horn, Vinciguerra and Filipino birdwatcher Ivan Sarenas were returning to Bongao, the provincial capital, from a 14-day sojourn in the municipality of Panglima Sugala on the biggest island in the Tawi-Tawi group when they were abducted at sea.
Their escorts, a policeman and a local official, were allowed to leave, along with the boat operator. Sarenas managed to escape by jumping overboard later that night and swam in the darkness toward another island where he was aided by fishermen.
“We are hoping there would be positive news in the coming days,” Sahali said.
He admitted that authorities in Bern and The Hague, the Swiss and Dutch capitals, respectively, were closely watching the developments in the search and rescue operations.
He said officials from the Dutch and the Swiss embassies in Manila have been frequently contacting him for updates.
“They keep on calling me every day; they want to know the progress of our efforts, they are very much worried over the safety of the two victims,” Sahali said.
Acting Governor Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said also that European diplomats were in close contact with him.
He said he would always tell them that the efforts were continuing and that the victims have not been sighted so far.
Sahali said they believed that the kidnappers and the victims have not gotten out of Tawi-Tawi yet.
He said had they done so, the kidnappers would have made contact  by this time.
“Probably, they would have made known their demand by now,” Sahali said.


==MNLF linked to abduction of 2 foreigners==
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Central Visayas has initiated efforts to promote environment conservation education to host communities of eco-tourism projects.
*Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/02/11/12/mnlf-linked-abduction-2-foreigners
*02/12/2012 12:22 AM | Updated as of 02/12/2012 12:22 AM
:by Honor Blanco Cabie


The agency will hold an information caravan from Argao to the towns in the southern tip of Cebu, DOT-Central Visayas Director Rowena Montecillo said.


ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Police said they identified a group of young members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) as possible suspects in the abduction of two Europeans in Tawi-Tawi more than a week ago.
She told Sun.Star Cebu these areas are part of the route of the whale shark.
Police Director Felicisimo Khu, Jr., director of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations (DIPO), said there are indications that Ewold Horn and Lorenzo Vinciguerra were taken by third generation members of the MNLF in Tawi-Tawi.
Khu said a possible motive is jealousy among the locals. "These foreign birdwatchers when they go to the area, hire locals to serve as their guides and security." Khu said. "One group was denied."
Khu said they are giving the provincial government of Tawi-Tawi time to negotiate with the abductors, who are said to be still hiding in Panglima Sugala town. "Governor Sahali is sending an emissary," Khu revealed.
The police officer also showed to the news team a copy of the email sent by a certain Mustapha Muallam, using Ivan Sarenas' hacked email address, to the group of birdwatchers, where Sarenas is a member.
Muallam, who identified himself as one of the abductors, demanded for the pull-out of police and military operatives in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. "But when he was asked to present proof of life of the victims, he was not able to comply."
Khu believes Muallam is "someone who is merely trying to confuse things."


Montecillo was referring to the whale sharks (Rhyncodon typus) that have become the main tourist attraction of Barangay Tan-awan in Oslob town.


The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists whale sharks as “vulnerable” due to the threats they face such as hunting and their dwindling population.


Montecillo said the tourism agency has tapped the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in educating the community about whale sharks and perhaps turtles too.


The participants who will be required to attend trainings are the boatmen and other members of the affected community.


Montecillo said that with this effort on environmental management education, the School of the SEA (Sea and Earth Advocates) resources can be tapped.


The School of the SEA managed by the Law of Nature Foundation headed by environmental lawyer and Ramon Magsaysay laureate Antonio Oposa Jr. was re-launched a few years after its infrastructure was destroyed by Typhoon Frank.


The school promotes education, engineering and enforcement in promoting the implementation of environmental laws and policies through environment-friendly practices such as waste segregation and water conservation.


Montecillo had pledged to continue to support the school and at the same time bring environmental conservation awareness to Regions 6 (Western Visayas), 7 (Central Visayas) and 8 (Eastern Visayas). (LCR/BAP/Sun.Star Cebu)


==Tawi Tawi, on the world’s biggest coral triangle in PHL’s far south, sinking? (Feature)==
==Nora Aunor finishes movie shoot in Tawi-Tawi==
*Source: http://bayanihan.org/2012/02/10/tawi-tawi-on-the-worlds-biggest-coral-triangle-in-phls-far-south-sinking-feature/
*Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/04/30/12/nora-aunor-finishes-movie-shoot-tawi-tawi
*FEBRUARY 10, 2012
*Tuesday, May 1, 2012
:by Honor Blanco Cabie
:by RJ Rosalado, ABS-CBN News Zamboanga




MANILA, Philippines – Veteran actress Nora Aunor is back in Manila after shooting several scenes in Tawi-Tawi for her comeback movie.


MANILA, Feb. 9 -– Leaders of the Philippines’ most southern province of Tawi Tawi have raised an urgent call, which sent disturbing ripples nationwide, on climate change watchers and environmentalists.
Aunor’s skin was relatively sunburned when she arrived at the Zamboanga airport on Sunday but the actress said it is all part of her role in the film.


In “Thy Womb,” Aunor plays a Badjao midwife working in the province.


The call, in the form of a plea, has been addressed to those who have the political will to save the island World, at the southwestern tip of the country, which has splashes of white sandy beaches and rock-bound coasts.
Aunor said she is happy about her whole experience in doing the movie as she was able to learn a lot of new things like sailing and weaving using local materials.


Not many know that Tawi Tawi, which has 107 islands and islets, sits at the center of the world’s biggest coral triangle. It shares the same seas with disaster-prone states Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomons and Timor Leste.
Aunor said she was also overwhelmed with the beauty of Tawi-Tawi.


The area comprises the South Base of the world’s biggest enclave of marine life representing only two per cent of the world’s ocean but contains 76 per cent of the world’s marine biodiversity.
She even encouraged tourists to visit the province because contrary to what’s always written, Tawi-Tawi is not a dangerous place.


Most of the people in Tawi-Tawi belong to the Sama cultural group, which has sub-groups and named based on the location of the speaker: Sama Sibutu from the Sibutu-Sitangkai Island Group, Sama Simunul from Simunul-Manuk Mangkaw Island Group.
Aunor said she is happy with the warm welcome the local government of Tawi-Tawi gave her and the rest of the movie’s cast and crew.


The Jama Mapun are largely found in the Cagayan Mapun and Turtle Island Group. Many of the people from the Turtle Islands and Cagayan Mapun maintain daily commerce with Sabah, since it is only 14 kms away.
“Thy Womb” is under the direction of Cannes-winning director Brillante Mendoza.


The Badjao (also called "Sama Dilaut") are widely dispersed across the country’s southernmost province. It has been observed the Badjao population is diminishing due to diseases and migration to other areas in the Philippines as well as neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia.
==Charges filed against 12 Vietnamese poachers==
*Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/regions/21976-charges-filed-against-12-vietnamese-poachers
*Monday, April 30, 2012
:by AL JACINTO


There is little wonder that recently Rep. Nur Jaafar filed House Resolution 1919 which underlines the need to set up Tawi Tawi and its sinking islands and islets as a National Laboratory with Climate Change Commission.


The Resolution identifies the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources as lead agencies to undertake systematic monitoring of appropriate parameters.


The parameters must be raised with the use of scientific equipment for continued vulnerability assessment and piloting of mitigation and adaptation measures.
ZAMBOANGA CITY: Authorities have filed charges against 12 Vietnamese poachers who were arrested in Tawi-Tawi, officials said Saturday.


This is, as Rep. Jaafar said in his privileged speech, to check the Philippines “from becoming the next South Pacific archipelagic state to submerge and render its people refugees … not to be in the same fate as the sinking of Carteret Islands, Papua New Guinea and Tuvalu.
Officials said the Vietnamese fishermen have been charged for violating the Philippine Fisheries Code and Wildlife Resources Protection and Conservation Act, and have been detained in the provincial jail.


Filipinos have taken pride in the fact that Turtle Islands in Tawi Tawi is one of only 16 birth homes of the Green Sea Turtles in the world.
The poachers, who were on a Malaysian fishing vessel, were intercepted on April 22 off the island of Pangutaran. Authorities said the vessel is owned by Tuaran Marine Park SDN BHD in Sabah, Malaysia.


But with the obvious sinking of the smaller islands with high tides reaching even the plateau that hides the nests, experts are concerned there may be little chance for the turtles to hatch which would result in the dwindling of the already endangered species.
Recovered from the vessel were five bundles of black corals, 85 pieces of endangered hawksbill turtles, and some 600 kilos of assorted hammerhead sharks, groupers and squid.  


Leakage from container vessels and the resulting dumping of toxic waste also pose serious pollution threats to marine biodiversity in Tawi Tawi.
Officials identified the Vietnamese as Truong Van Hoang, the captain; Pham Ngoc Binh, Nguyen Minh Anh Dong, Tran Hong Tho, Nguyen Thank Ninh, Nguyen Van Vung, Nguyen, Van Ba, Nguyen Thanh Ninh, Nguyen Van Tuan, Nguyen Van Hai, Tran Hing Thien and Nguyen Van Vuong.


This is similar to the danger level of dying reefs as coastlines recede and warming oceans initiate dreaded diseases in fishes as well as fish mutants.
==Nora Aunor, Brillante Mendoza wrap up Tawi-Tawi shoot==
*Source: http://www.rappler.com/entertainment/4512-ate-guy-wraps-up-tawi-tawi-shoot
*Sunday,April 29, 2012
:by DAVID Y. SANTOS


Migratory paths of large pelagic fishes would change as they look for cooler waters. This broadens the migratory path and eats up the smaller fishes.


While Tawi Tawi has been known to be the seaweeds capital of the Philippines, 10,000 families producing 75 per cent of raw harvests of the country’s carageenan exports may face bleak prospects.


Tawi Tawi also takes pride as being the land below the wind. But that may not be for long since storm surges have destroyed houses and left thousands of people homeless.
MANILA, Philippines – “It's a wrap.”


There have been storm surges that reduced stilt houses to matchsticks, according to Rep. Jaafar. This means serious repercussions on the already diminished ancestral domain of the Sama, Tausug, Jama Mapun and Badjao tribes.
Close to two weeks since coming to the island province of Tawi-Tawi, the country's southernmost frontier, Nora Aunor has finished shooting her latest film “Thy Womb.”


Jaafar asks, rather pointedly: “Where else could they seek refuge as the sea rises to claim their homes without destroying their traditions and livelihood as seafarers who live close to the sea on stilts?”
“We are gratetful to Ms Aunor, as well as those behind this movie, for choosing Tawi-Tawi as their location,” Vice-Governor Ruby Sahali told Rappler by phone. “It's a welcome breather for us amid all the bad press the province has been getting.”


What climate change means is that the 307 islands and islets in Tawi Tawi may dwindle and shrink, making the stilt houses unable to survive the sudden rise of the sea.
The superstar herself is equally grateful for the hospitality the province has shown to her and the film's crew.


Climate change observers say Rep. Jaafar is on track in calling for action now, not tomorrow.
Aunor flew in to Tawi-Tawi last April 14, to shoot the indie film, her first since returning from a hiatus in the United States. Shooting took place in at least 3 locations: the island-towns of Bongao, Sitangkai and Taganak. She left the province last Saturday, April 28.


According to them, it would be very pathetic indeed if Tawi Tawi, home to almost 500,000 people and an enviable wealth of flora and fauna, would be allowed to sink because there are other concerns, definitely less in urgency, high in the priority list of the authorities. (PNA)
“Thy Womb” is a collaboration between Aunor and Brillante Mendoza, Cannes award-winning director, and is seen as a landmark in modern Filipino filmmaking.


==Kidnapped birdwatchers still kept in Tawi-Tawi==
Initial press releases indicate that the movie tackles the struggles of a native Badjao midwife (Aunor) and deals with “an intriguing tale of love adrift with an unsettling question [on] how to sustain a life struck between the devil of passion and the deep blue sea of tradition?”
*Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/regions/16751-kidnapped-birdwatchers-still-kept-in-tawi-tawi
*Thursday, February 09, 2012
:by  AL JACINTO


Aside from Aunor, other stars who were in Tawi-Tawi for the location shoot included Lovi Poe, Mercedes Cabral and Bembol Roco.


ZAMBOANGA CITY: Authorities said gunmen are still holding an abducted Dutch and a Swiss wildlife photographers in Tawi-Tawi.
Action star Raymart Santiago was also part of the film, reportedly not as among the actors, but as part of the film's crew.


Authorities said Ewold Horn, 52, from Holland; and Lorenzo Vinciguerre, 47, of Switzerland, are still being held in captivity in one of dozens of islands in the Muslim province.
“It was surreal for us to see all these movie stars coming down to Tawi-Tawi. Being the farthest to the nation's capital, we never thought they would come and shoot a film here,” Sahali said.


Five gunmen seized the two photographers along with a Filipino guide, Ivan Sadinas, 35, who managed to escape from the gang in the town of Panglima Sugala. Police said the foreigners, who arrived in the province late last month, were taking photographs of wild birds when gunmen seized them.
Security


There were unconfirmed reports that the duo was brought to Sulu province and that another report claimed one of the hostages was rescued or freed. Police and military denied the reports.
Provincial police director Rodelio Jocson said there were no untoward incidents reported throughout the duration of the filming. Both the police and units of the Philippine Marines provided security for stars and the film crew, which numbered around 30 to 40 members, excluding local talents who were tapped for minor roles.


The military’s Western Min-danao Command branded the report as ‘disinformation.’ There was no truth to that report that one of the victims was rescued or freed. It was a disinformation,” said Army Lieutenant Colonel Randolph Cabangbang, a regional military spokesman.
“Whether they are famous movie stars or ordinary tourists, as long as they coordinate with us, we will be ready to secure them,” Jocson said, pointing out the security plans are prepared each time they are informed of incoming visitors.


Police in Tawi-Tawi also denied the report.
Two foreign birdwatchers abducted two months ago in the remote town of Panglima Sugala remain in captivity up to this time.


“They are still here in Tawi-Tawi and the operation is continuing and wanted this problem resolve as soon as possible,” said Senior Superintendent Rodelio Jocson, the provincial police chief.
Tawi-Tawi is also infamously known as the jump-off point for illegal immigrants to Malaysia, due to its proximity to the State of Sabah.


He said a local gang is holding Horn and Vinciguerre. “They were abducted by locals and not the Abu Sayyaf,” he said when asked by reporters if the al-Qaeda-linked terror group was behind the abduction.
Apparently, despite the security concerns, Aunor and Brillante pursued shooting in Tawi-Tawi, which reportedly will be shown in “at least 70% of the film.”


Jocson, accompanied by police commandos, launched a rescue operation on Tuesday, but returned empty handed later in the night. “We just came down from the mountain and there were no traces of the hostages,” he said.
Though smaller films have been shot in Tawi-Tawi “decades ago,” this is the first time in recent years that a full-length was shot in Tawi-Tawi.


==Abducted Dutch, Swiss photographers still in Tawi-Tawi province==
“The abduction of the foreign birdwatchers was just an isolated case. We can assure you that we are doing everything to have been freed as soon as possible,” Jocson added.
*Source: http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20120208050824
*Wednesday, February 08, 2012 06:08:24 PM
:by  Ely Dumaboc


Both Sahali and Jocson noted that ironically, since the February abduction, there has been a rise on the number of tourists coming to Tawi-Tawi. A crew from the National Geograhic Channel is also reportedly doing a documentary in the province.


Police released to the Mindanao Examiner photos of abducted Dutch and a Swiss wildlife photogaphers Ewold Horn, 52, from Holland, and Lorenzo Vinciguerre, 47, of Switzerland. The duo was taken by gunmen on February 1, 2012 in the town of Panglima Sugala in Tawi-Tawi province in the southern Philippines. (Ely Dumaboc)
“If you set aside all the bad press, Tawi-Tawi, or Mindanao as a whole, is a very beautiful place,” Sahali lamented. “We don't get to be appreciated so much by majority of the Filipinos because all we hear and see are the negative news about our place.”


ZAMBOANGA CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Feb. 8, 2012) – Philippine authorities said gunmen are still holding an abducted Dutch and a Swiss wildlife photographers in the remote southern province of Tawi-Tawi.
“We hope that with the widespread publicity of 'Thy Womb' both here and in other countries, it will also draw interest into our province, more than just the reports on violence and cases of human trafficking we have become to be known for.” - Rappler.com


Authorities said Ewold Horn, 52, from Holland; and Lorenzo Vinciguerre, 47, of Switzerland, are still being held in captivity in one of dozens of islands in the Muslim province.
==Breakthrough In PHL-MILF Peace Talks Draws More Positive Comments==
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/358257/breakthrough-in-phlmilf-peace-talks-draws-more-positive-comments
*Saturday,April 28, 2012
:by EDD K. USMAN


Five gunmen seized the two photographers along with a Filipino guide, Ivan Sadinas, 35, who managed to escape from the gang in the town of Panglima Sugala. Police said the foreigners, who arrived in the province late last month, were taking photographs of wild birds when gunmen seized them.


There were unconfirmed reports that the duo was brought to Sulu province and that another report claimed one of the hostages was rescued or freed. Police and military denied the reports.
More Moro political leaders have added their voices to the positive responses to the breakthrough on June 24 achieved by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the 15-year-old peace process.


The military’s Western Mindanao Command branded the report as ‘disinformation.’ There was no truth to that report that one of the victims was rescued or freed. It was a disinformation,” Army Lieutenant Colonel Randolph Cabangbang, a regional military spokesman, told the Mindanao Examiner.
The stalemate-breaking feat re¬fers to the "10 Decision Points" docu¬ment signed by Government of the Philippines (GPH) and MILF peace panel chairmen Dean Mario Victor F. Leonen and Mohagher Iqbal, respectively, providing a roadmap for a new form of Bangsamoro governance entity.


Police in Tawi-Tawi also denied the report.
It could include replacing the much-maligned autonomous government composed of the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi and component cities Lamitan and Marawi.


“They are still here in Tawi-Tawi and the operation is continuing and wanted this problem resolve as soon as possible,” Senior Superintendent Rodelio Jocson, the provincial police chief, said in a separate interview.
On Friday the leadership of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) led by caretaker Gov. Mujiv Hataman lauded the two parties for their Bilateral Decision Points on Principles.


He said a local gang is holding Horn and Vinciguerre. “They were abducted by locals and not the Abu Sayyaf,” he said when asked by reporters if the al-Qaeda-linked terror group was behind the abduction.
The ARMM officer-in-charge said the accord may serve to pave the way for a new political entity to be crafted by GPH and MILF that both parties will accept.


Jocson, accompanied by police commandos, launched a rescue operation on Tuesday, but returned empty handed later in the night. “We just came down from the mountain and there were no traces of the hostages,” he said.
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael "Datu Toto" Mangudadatu said he will continue to strongly support the peace process under the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III.


Manila condemned the abduction of the foreigners and ordered authorities to resolve the crisis immediately.  
"Filipinos, particularly Muslims in Mindanao, all have been yearning for peace. Whatever is good for the Bangsamoro is welcomed," said Mangudadatu.


The Aquino government also urged foreign tourists to coordinate with their own embassies regarding advisories on conditions that may affect their travel and other arrangements while visiting the Philippines.
On the other hand, Hataman de¬fended the autonomous region from its critics, saying "the role of the re¬formed ARMM cannot be downplayed in the government’s efforts to come up with a permanent solution to the Moro problem."


“We condemn the abduction; and the national and local governments, as well as all agencies concerned, are working to ensure the resolution of the situation, the recovery and release of the men who remain in the hands of their captors, and the bringing to justice of the lawless elements involved,” said Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte.
He outlined some of the autonomous government's efforts in support of the peace process.


No individual or group claimed responsibility for the abduction, but Abu Sayyaf militants are known to operate in the province where they kidnapped a Malaysian fish trader Pang Choon Pong in October last year and is still being held in captivity.
"The ARMM and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process had initially come up with 'common points of cooperation' in support to the peace process from some mid-level meetings (on multilateral support through peace com¬munication)," he said.


Abu Sayyaf militants also kidnapped two Malaysian seaweed farm workers Vui Chung, 42, and his cousin Lai Wing Chau, 33, in Tawi-Tawi in February 2010 and were freed later in the same year after their families paid some 2 million ringgits.
Hataman assured that the autonomous region is still an important part of the solution to the Bangsamoro aspirations, not a problem as some quarters may want to believe.


The group tied to al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiya had also kidnapped 21 mostly Western holidaymakers in Sabah’s resort island of Sipadan in 2001 and brought them by boat to the southern Philippines. The hostages were then ransomed off to Malaysia and Libya - which negotiated for their release - for millions of dollars.
He said the ARMM under his helm is presently working to strengthen the building of institutions to come up with mechanisms supporting the peace process.


The Abu Sayyaf is still holding two Malaysians, a Japanese man, an Indian national married to a Filipina, an Australian citizen and three Filipinos in the restive southern region.
On the other hand, Hataman appealed to the stakeholders and other sectors of the peace process to support the government's initiative leading to a solution of the Muslim Mindanao conflict.


==European tourists' abductors remain unknown==
==Raps filed vs 11 Vietnamese poachers==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/02/07/european-tourists-abductors-remain-unknown-204746
*Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/27/12/raps-filed-vs-11-vietnamese-poachers
*Tuesday, February 7, 2012
*Friday,April 27, 2012
:by  Bong Garcia
:by Report from RJ Rosalado, ABS-CBN News Zamboanga
 
 
MANILA, Philippines – Charges have been filed against 11 Vietnamese poachers who were arrested off Tawi-Tawi last Wednesday.
 
The fishermen, who were allegedly poaching endangered marine species, were charged with violating the Wildlife Act of the Philippines for possession of dead hawksbill turtles and black corals.
 
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Director Asis Perez said the foreigners may face a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment of up to 2 years.
 
Perez said a legal team from the BFAR has been sent to Tawi-Tawi to monitor the case. 
 
Foreigners are not allowed to fish in Philippine territory, based on the Philippine Fisheries Code.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
==ARMM polls in May 2013 to proceed if peace pact not signed this year; Leonen says no need to amend Consti==
*Source: http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2012/04/26/armm-polls-in-may-2013-to-proceed-if-peace-pact-not-signed-this-year-leonen-says-no-need-to-amend-consti/
*Thursday,April 26, 2012
:by Carolyn O. Arguil las
 
 
KUALA LUMPUR (MindaNews/26 April) –  Elections in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front  will replace with a “new autonomous political entity,” will proceed as scheduled on May 13, 2013 if no peace agreement is reached by the peace panels this year.
“Government is very aware in terms of timelines of our political exercises and in terms of the political realities,” government (GPH) peace panel chair Marvic Leonen told MindaNews. He said the roadmap would take on a different shape if the elections were to proceed and a new set of ARMM officials is elected. The timeline, too, may change given that the elected officials in May 2013 will, under the present law, serve a three-year term until 2016, he said.
“It’s possible you’ll wait until 2016 but in 2016 what is the political reality?” he asked
Declaring that the “status quo is unacceptable,” the GPH and MILF peace panels on Tuesday agreed to work for the creation of a “new autonomous political entity in place of the ARMM” as one of ten “decision points on principles” they signed that day at the Palace of the Golden Horses hotel.
The  present ARMM  comprises the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan,Sulu and Tawi-tawi.
No need
Government peace panel chair Marvic Leonen, an expert on Constitutional Law, is confident there is no need to amend the 1987 Constitution to create the new entity that would replace ARMM.
He said many of the proposals of the MILF are contained in the Organic Act (RA 9054) although he acknowledged that the MILF views this differently.
“From the GPH point of view as of the moment, a Republic Act is more doable. But of course in so far as the Constitution is concerned, no Constitution is always permanent but the constitutional exercise requires a lot more than amending a law. And it’s always a balance between you change the rules first of the game before you mobilize the leaders. Is it exclusive? Mauna ito bago ito?  Di ba pwede magsabay (Should this come first? Cannot they go together) and then later the political realities might be more favorable towards greater political exercise?” Leonen told MindaNews on Wednesday afternoon.
MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal  has yet to be convinced that there is no need to amend the Constitution to accommodate their demands.  “The government says no need, but we hope they can demonstrate graphically how they do it without amending the Constitution. Our belief is this cannot be done,” he told MindaNews a day on Wednesday.
The peace negotiations adjourned at 3:50 p.m. Tuesday, two days ahead of scheduled, after the parties signed the “GPH-MILF Decision Points on Principles as of April 2012.”
The panels will resume talks next month. Congress on the other hand will resume sessions on May 7 and will go on sine die adjournment June 8 until it reopens with the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of the President on July 23.
The GPH peace panel in a press conference via Skype with the Malacanang Press Corps Wednesday noon,  was repeatedly asked how soon the two panels can forge an agreement and how this would impact on the May 2013 elections in the ARMM.
“If there is no agreement in due time then the elections of ARMM will continue (in 2013),” as provided for by law,  Leonen said.
Panel member Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, explained to the press corps that the peace agreement that will be signed “will not automatically suspend the ARMM or suspend the elections. Ibig sabihin maski magkapirmahan tayo bukas, marami pang requirements yan para ma-put in place. (This means even if we sign tomorrow, there are still many requirement for that new political entity to be put in place). For instance, we will need to generate support from Congress, from both the Senate and the House, to actually pass the law that will make it possible for some kind of implementing mechanisms to take place.”
Ferrer acknowledged that the longer the negotiations take, the “normal political timetable” of elections in 2013 and Presidential elections in 2016 will set in “if all these steps are not done early enough.”
She said signing the agreement does not mean it will be implemented immediately because there are many legislative requirements “that’s why we’re working closely with Congress, we’re working closely with the public so that they will be able to  support all the requirements that will implement elements of that agreement.”
 
Timetables
 
The filing of certificates of  candidacy for all elective positions in the May 2013 polls is on October 1 to 5 this year, according to the Commission on Elections’ Resolution 9385.
Congress, after reopening on July 23, goes on break from mid-October to mid-November and Christmas break from mid-December to mid-January, leaving only a limited number of session days before the official campaign period for the May 2013 polls begins.
The 90-day campaign period for senatorial candidates and party list groups is from February 12 to May 11, 2013 while the 45-day campaign period for candidates for the House of Representatives, provincial, city and municipal officials as well as the ARMM is from March 29 to May 11.
The MILF in February last year proposed a Bangsamoro substate,  an “asymmetrical state-substate relationship, wherein powers of the central government and state government are clearly stated, aside from those powers they jointly exercise, which are also defined in this draft.”
The MILF summarized it as “less than independence but more than autonomy” apparently referring to the present ARMM.
Government handed its proposal on August 22 last year,18 days after President Aquino met with MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim in Japan and both agreed to fast-track the peace process so that a peace agreement can be forged within the first half of the President’s six-year term, or by June 30, 2013, so that implementation can be done immediately. The President’s term of office ends noon of June 30, 2016.
The GPH proposal was a “three for one solution” which involves three components: massive economic development, a peace accord, and cultural-historical acknowledgment.”
The MILF peace panel rejected the GPH proposal, prompting Leonen to say, “We reject your rejection.”
The talks went on an impasse with Malaysian facilitator Tengku Dato’ Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed shuttling between the panels until they resumed talks in December. The panels have been meeting every month since.
In a press conference in Cotabato City in late August last year, Leonen said amending the 1987 Constitution was not a priority of the present administration.
“The proposal of government to the MILF does not contain a proposal for constitutional amendment,” he said.
“Autonomy as practiced by the ARMM in the past is a failed experiment.  However it does not necessarily mean we do not learn from that experience,” he said, adding the autonomy they are proposing “comes close to the idea of self governance also of the MILF.”
“We read sub-state also as autonomy. We do not see sub-state as a separate republic,” Leonen said then.
He also noted in August that many of the fundamental aspirations of the MILF “can be fitted into the provisions of the current Constitution.” (Carolyn O. Arguillas/MindaNews)
 
==Dead sea turtles, corals seized in Vietnamese boat==
*Source: http://www.rappler.com/nation/4345-dead-sea-turtles,-corals-seized-in-vietnamese-boat
*04/25/2012 4:44 PM  | Updated 04/25/2012 5:49 PM
:by DAVID Y. SANTOS
 
 
MANILA, Philippines – Marine authorities in Tawi-Tawi said they have confiscated at least 50 dead sea turtles and bundles of rare corals from a Vietnamese fishing boat while docked at the port of Bongao town on Tuesday, April 24.
 
The seized items, which are classified as endangered species under maritime laws, were intended to be smuggled to other countries.
 
The Philippine Coast Guard Station in Bongao said the dead turtles were found along with 5 bundles of Black Corals inside SBF 48, a Vietnamese-registered fishing boat, during a routine inspection. The contraband was “concealed inside a refrigerated fish cargo hole located at the port side of the vessel.”
 
Bureua of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Director Asis Perez has confirmed that charges have been filed against the boat's 12 crew members, who were all Vietnamese, for violating laws forbidding the collection and sale of sea turtles and corals.
 
The cases, citing violations of Republic Acts 8550 or the Fisheries Code of the Philippines and 9147 or the Wildlife Act of the Philippines, were filed before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 5 in Bongao.
 
Among the different sea turtles, the Hawksbill turtle is commonly found in Tawi-Tawi and has been classified as critically endangered. Hawksbill shells are used for decorative purposes, while Hawksbill eggs and meat are cooked as a native delicacy. - Rappler.com
 
==Airphil plane engine emits smoke before take-off, passengers ordered to disembark==
*Source: http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/news/13-top-stories/9674-airphil-plane-engine-emits-smoke-before-take-off-passengers-ordered-to-disembark.html
*Tuesday, 24 April 2012 12:34
:by Nonong Santiago/Hader Glang
 
 
Hundreds of passengers bound for Manila, Davao, Jolo and Tawi-Tawi were stranded yesterday morning when a turbo-prop plane of the Air Philippines started emitting smoke in the middle of Runway 27 while it was about to depart for Sanga-Sanga Airport in Tawi-Tawi Province.
 
Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Manager Celso Bayabos disclosed that the plane was given the clearance for departure at 7 a.m.
when the pilots noticed smoke coming from the right engine of the propeller plane while it was already 300 meters away from Runway 27.
 
The pilots had to stop the plane in the middle of the runway and ordered the affected passengers to disembark the aircraft resulting to the delay of the 7:45 a.m. Philippine Airlines flight for Manila, Bayabos said.
 
According to Bayabos, the inbound flight of Cebu Pacific from Manila to Zamboanga was also diverted to Davao City Airport because of the
obstruction.
 
“Ang AirPhil bound for Sanga-Sanga Airport in Tawi-Tawi was given a clearance for take off at Runway 27, but rolling for take off mga around
300 meters away na sya beginning sa runway 27, biglang hininto ng piloto ang eroplano dahil nahalata na may diperensya ang right engine ng eroplano. Ang ibang flight ng PAL for Manila ay na-hold muna. Ang inbound flight of Cebu Pacific from Manila to Zamboanga was diverted to Davao City airport,” Bayabos said.
 
The airport manager said they had to borrow the tow bar of the Philippine Air Force to tow the plane out of the runway.
Bayabos said the airport was cleared for landing and departure at past 8 in the morning. A Norwegian, Einar Solheim said his flight was supposed to be at 7:45 a.m. but due to the incident, it was delayed.
 
Rossnelly said this is not good because they are supposed to go to the Norwegian Embassy to apply for a fiancée visa. Some passengers were also clearly upset with the delay.
 
There is no clear report yet as to what was the cause of the incident.
 
==Air Philippines flight to Tawi-Tawi aborted due to smoke from engine==
*Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/181255/air-philippines-flight-to-tawi-tawi-aborted-due-to-smoke-from-engine
*10:34 am | Monday, April 23rd, 2012
:by   Julie Alipala
Philippine Daily Inquirer
 
 
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines— An Air Philippines flight to Tawi-Tawi was aborted on Monday morning as smoke emitted from the right engine of the plane, an official said.
Celso Bayabos, manager of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines in Zamboanga, said  the plane was about to take off  when pilots noticed  the  smoke prompting them to park and order  around 50 passengers to disembark shortly after 7:00 in the morning.
“It’s not really fire, there was smoke. It’s good that pilots noticed it before they take off otherwise (it would be) another disaster,” Bayabos said.
Other flights supposedly about to land at Zamboanga City international airport like Cebu Pacific from Davao city and Manila were advised to redirect their flights back.
Fire marshalls and other airport personnel immediately towed the aircraft back to the taxi area to determine the actual cause of engine trouble.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
==P2.8-B infra projects for roads, bridges in ARMM under way==
*Source: http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/regions/26160-p28-b-infra-projects-for-roads-bridges-in-armm-under-way
*SUNDAY, 22 APRIL 2012 18:27
:by JONATHAN L. MAYUGA / REPORTER
 
 
PUBLIC Works Secretary Rogelio Singson said several infrastructure projects in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are being implemented to boost economic development in the region.
Singson said 26 projects worth around P2.8 billion are in various stages of implementation. All in all, the projects involve 117 kilometers of national roads and 132 linear meters of bridges.
 
“I’ve just met with President Aquino and the governors of the ARMM provinces and ARMM Governor [Mujiv] Hataman.  We have reported the status of our program in ARMM,” Singson told reporters during the Communication and News Exchange (CNEX) forum at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) office in Quezon City.
 
The projects, he said, are part of the “Transition Investment Support Program for ARMM” being implemented by the Aquino administration.  It has a total budget of P8.5 billion, P2.8 billion of which is for the repairs, rehabilitation and upgrading of major roads in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.
 
According to Singson, a total of three projects in Basilan involving the upgrading of 13 kilometers of road and 36.9 linear meters of bridge are now ongoing.
 
In Sulu he said the DPWH will implement a total of five projects that will construct 15 kilometers of road. Four of the projects have started.
 
Meanwhile, there are two upgrading projects involving 13 kilometers of road in Tawi-Tawi.  “We are also looking at improving the water system in Tawi-Tawi,” he said.
 
In Lanao del Sur there are a total of eight projects.  Five projects have just been awarded to private contractors while three others “will be awarded very soon.”
 
The projects involve the rehabilitation and upgrading of 33 kilometers of road and 75 linear meters of bridges.
 
“In Lanao we are also looking at upgrading the Agos River to improve and add 60 megawatts of power in Mindanao,” the DPWH revealed.
 
On the other hand, there are a total of eight ongoing projects in the province of Maguindanao, involving a total of 38 kilometers of roads and 20 linear meters of bridges. “We have updated [data on] the road networks in the ARMM. We now have a plan to fully restore the road networks there,” he said.
 
==Shipper questions hold order on bark shipment==
*Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/180283/shipper-questions-hold-order-on-bark-shipment
*8:27 am | Saturday, April 21st, 2012
:by Cebu Daily News
 
 
THE owner of the 1,000 sacks of tree bark of mangroves or tanbarks locally known as “tungog” that was seized by authorities last Thursday in Cebu City came forward to seek the release of the shipment.
Erickson Kho of Sulu questioned the hold order issued by the National Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force.
The foregst goods originated from Tandubas, Tawi-tawi, Mindanao.
Edward Pamplona, head of the Regional Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force, told Kho that he failed to present a Certificate to Transport Forest Products to justify his claim on the shipment.
Kho’s papers said he was the lone bidder who won and paid P25,520 for the 51.4 tons of tanbarks previously confiscated in Mindanao and put up for auction.
But the potential market value of the bark is P14.39 million, according to Pamplona, making the shipment suspicious.
A physical examination was made yesterday by the task force, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Community of Environment and Natural Resources (Cenro),
Pamplona said 10 vans loaded with 280 tons of tanbarks were seized in Pier 8 Dec. 6 last year under Kho’s name.
He said the tanbarks were released to Kho because no hold order was immediately issued.
He said they have been “monitoring” Kho’s tanbarks shipment almost every month after reading documents that noted that the shipment was “bought through public bidding.”
“Why isn’t this (tanbarks shipment) controlled?” Pamplona said.
Pamplona said the National Anti-illegal Logging Task Force is meeting with the Forest Management Team to verify whether the tan barks were the subject of a public bidding.
The shipment was consigned to Paul Bercina of barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City.
It was seized from a motor boat by Navy personnel on Thursday. Tanbark is used in the production of paint, beads and food coloring. Correspondent Rhea Ruth V. Rosell


==Magnitude 4.4 strikes off Tawi-Tawi==
*Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/20/12/magnitude-44-strikes-tawi-tawi
*04/20/2012 9:46 AM | Updated as of 04/20/2012 9:46 AM
:by  http://www.abs-cbnnews.com




THE government authorities are still clueless who were behind the abduction of two European tourists in Tawi-Tawi, as the search to locate the hostages' whereabouts entered on its fifth day Monday.


The hostages, Ewold Horn, 52, of Holland and Lorenzo Vinciguerre, 47, of Switzerland were seized by five gunmen together with Filipino guide Ivan Sarenas, 35, last February 1.
MANILA, Philippines – A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck off Tawi-Tawi on Thursday night, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.


The tourists were taking photographs of rare bird species off shore Parangan village, Panglima Sugala town, Tawi-Tawi when the gunmen aboard a twin-engine motorized banca arrived and seized them at gunpoint.
Phivolcs said the earthquake occurred at 6:59 p.m. Its epicenter was located 260 kilometers southeast of South Ubian town.


Sarenas managed to escape hours later as he jumped from the banca while the gunmen were transporting them.
The earthquake was tectonic in origin. It had a depth of 491 kilometers.


Tawi-Tawi police director Senior Superintendent Rodelio Jocson said no one has called nor made demands in exchange for the release of the European tourists.
No tremor was felt in any part of the province. Likewise, no damage was reported.


Meanwhile, Tawi-Tawi Governor Sadikul Sahali said they tapped the assistance of all sectors to help them locate the victims.
Phivolcs said aftershocks are not expected from the earthquake.


Sahali said he also tapped the assistance of Moro National Liberation Front members in the province.
==Authentic HK Dimsum, Half-Price!==
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/357457/authentic-hk-dimsum-halfprice
*April 19, 2012, 10:05am
:by  SOL VANZI


Jocson said the Naval Forces Western Mindanao command has deployed three gunboats around the area where the search is focused.


Jocson added that the twin-engine motorized banca used by the suspects were recovered in the shore of Languyan town.


==DOT weighs in on abducted European tourists, says "The Tawi-Tawi incident could have been avoided had the visitors taken necessary precautions"==
MANILA, Philippines — In the '60s and '70s, there was only one place outside of Chinatown for Manila dimsum lovers: Kowloon House on A. Mabini, Ermita, just off the corner of Herran (now Pedro Gil). The selection was limited: but it was the only show in town. The short dimsum menu listed siopao (asado or bola-bola), siomai, hakaw (shrimp dumpling), shark’s fin, beef balls, wugok (fried taro balls filled with chicken and mushrooms) and custard tart for dessert.
*Source: http://www.spot.ph/newsfeatures/50407/dot-weighs-in-on-abducted-european-tourists-says-the-tawi-tawi-incident-is-considered-unfortunate-and-could-have-been-avoided-had-the-visitors-taken-necessary-precautions
*Feb 6, 2012 - 5:00am
:by spot.ph


Filipino Chinese businessmen, many born in Mainland China, often flew to Hong Kong for weekend R & R, to visit girlfriends or relatives. Highlighting their trips were dimsum binges at the ground floor restaurant of the Luk Kwok Hotel in Wanchai, setting for the Richard Mason novel that inspired the movie “World of Suzie Wong.”


MANILA’S AUTHENTIC HK DIMSUM -- Today, there is no need to fly to Hong Kong to feast on a vast selection of authentic Chinese dimsum. Nor do we have to negotiate the narrow streets and no-parking areas of Binondo’s Chinatown. Families and friends now gather for traditional Sunday reunions, or weekday meals, at the Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant on Diosdado Macapagal Avenue off Roxas Boulevard.


Interaksyon.com reports that in a press statement issued late Friday (February 3), the Department of Tourism (DOT) stressed: "The issuance of travel advisories is part of the regular functions of embassies in line with ensuring the safety and security of their citizens in a foreign country. For the Philippines, advice against travel to some parts of Mindanao has been constant and common."
Not only do they enjoy the food, there’s the convenience of guarded parking spaces, and the assurance of enough tables, chairs and rooms capable of handling small, medium or large gatherings.
According to the report, the DOT also added: "The Tawi-Tawi incident is considered unfortunate and could have been avoided had the visitors taken necessary precautions many European tourists usually take in heed of these advisories."
The "Tawi-Tawi incident" cited in the DOT statement refers to the case of kidnap victims as Elwold Horn, 52, of Holland; and Lorenzo Vinciguerra, 47, of Switzerland.They were abducted by "unidentified elements" on February 1, "while riding a boat back to the capital of Bongao, after a bird-watching trip."
According to the report, "the DOT expressed confidence that tourists would continue to flock to the country despite a new travel advisory issued by the United Kingdom."


==Philippines: No ransom demand yet for 2 Europeans==
A family of 10 would need several Sunday reunions to taste everything on the Golden Bay’s dimsum menu, which lists 81 varieties. China-trained Chef Hui Chun Yuk, better known to diners and staff as Chef Ben, prepares all the iconic dumplings (siomai, hakaw), steamed buns (chicken pao), rice (machang), congee, steamed pig knuckle and tripe (goto), among others.
*Source: http://asiancorrespondent.com/75297/philippines-no-ransom-demand-yet-for-2-europeans/
*Feb 05, 2012 3:08AM UTC
:by AP News


TRADITION AND INNOVATION – In addition to the familiar dishes, Golden Bay’s menu also carries dozens of dimsums incorporating non-traditional ingredients, which surprisingly blend perfectly with dimsum cuisine.


Succulently reminiscent of the ocean are the uncommon Yuan Yang Dumplings, filled with fish fillet and topped with deep orange crab roe. Each dumpling, glistening in the steamer, is accented with a whole baby abalone. How many can claim to have eaten, or even seen, whole baby abalone?


MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Police said Friday that local thugs, not al-Qaida-linked Abu Sayyaf militants, were likely to have abducted two European tourists this week in the southern Philippines.
The small abalone comes from the clear blue waters of the Pacific, where fishermen from Aurora province pluck them from rocks and keep them iced for delivery to Golden Bay’s purchasing officer Joseph Wong.


Police Director Felicisimo Khu said the kidnappers had not contacted authorities or made any ransom demand.
Joseph travels from extreme northern Luzon to the waters of Sulu Sea off Tawi-Tawi in search of marine products for the restaurant and for export. His knowledge extends beyond the harvests’ economic value; like an artist, he collaborates with Chef Ben in creating new dishes, transforming and reshaping the sea’s bounty to produce spectacular tasty delights.


Ewold Horn of the Netherlands, Lorenzo Vinciguerra of Switzerland and their Filipino guide, Ivan Sarenas, were abducted Wednesday during a bird-watching trip to Tawi-Tawi, the Philippines’ southernmost province. They were the latest kidnap victims in an impoverished region infested with al-Qaida-linked militants and criminal gangs that often seek ransom for their foreign hostages.
MINI BEGGAR’S CHICKEN – Golden Bay has a greaseless version of the common Machang (sticky rice, sausage, pork and mushrooms). Glutinous Rice with Chicken come as rectangular, single-serving packets of sticky rice layered with a filling of chicken, mushrooms and seasonings wrapped in lotus leaf.


Sarenas escaped hours later by jumping off their captors’ boat after he saw some fishermen, who rescued him.
The heady aroma of chicken and mushrooms wafts as soon as the lotus leaf is opened. Unwrapped, the contents resemble a rice sandwich. The flavors are complex yet complementary, much like Beggar’s Chicken which was the inspiration for the dish. Imported Chinese dried lotus leaves impart smoky and earthy undertones which could not be duplicated if one used other leaves, such as banana or pandan.


Khu said he doubts the gunmen were Abu Sayyaf members because there is no known Abu Sayyaf presence in the province. But Tawi-Tawi is home to rebels from the Moro National Liberation Front, which signed a peace pact with the government in 1996.
I took home a few pieces, kept them in the fridge overnight. The next morning, they were unwrapped and pan-fried until toasty crisp on the outside. Heavenly!


“There are no indications that they are Abu Sayyaf,” Khu said in a telephone interview, adding that the abductors were likely local thugs.
GIGANTIC HAKAW – The regular bamboo steamer basket is hardly big enough for one order of Hakaw, which are definitely the biggest shrimp dumplings I’ve ever seen.  The wrapper alone is worthy of note: shiny, transparent as cellophane, quivering in the rising steam. Inside are several pink shrimp, firm to the bite and with a texture implying they’ve never been frozen.


He said the kidnappers freed unharmed an unarmed policeman, a town councilor and a boat skipper who were accompanying the bird watchers, and did not shoot Sarenas when he jumped out of the boat to make his escape — uncharacteristic of the brutal Abu Sayyaf militants, who are notorious for kidnappings and beheadings.
“It is not a secret; to ensure quality tasting food, we make sure that we have fresh quality ingredients daily,” emphasizes Chef Ben.


The abductors also appeared to be have bungled in failing to take Vinciguerra’s bag, which contained more than $1,000 worth of foreign currencies, and Sarenas’ bag, which had expensive cameras.
EXTRA-ORDINARY SIAO LONG – There is a unique system to eating Siao Long, lovingly described by experts as “soup in a dumpling,” one of the trickiest dumplings to assemble.


Police recovered the belongings from the motorized outrigger from which the victims were seized.
Carefully, the dumpling is lifted to one’s mouth, making sure the skin stays intact. A small bite near the top would then allow the diner to slurp the juices before attacking the rest of the piece, composed of minced lean pork and herbs.


Sarenas said the victims were transferred to another boat, then a third boat. He said he escaped when he realized the boat was speeding toward Jolo island, a stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf.
As with the other Golden Bay dumplings, Siao Long dumplings are large, and take at least three bites to finish. The pork filling is so lean there is no hint of greasiness or oil either in the filling or the “soup” inside its wrapping.


But Khu said that the boat was small and that there was no extra fuel on board for the 12-hour trip to Jolo.
STEAMED GOTO – One item very few ever cook at home is tripe; even the most avid kitchen lover loses patience with the hours required to clean, soak, stew and simmer to make this animal part edible. Cooked well, though, tripe, or goto, is beyond description.


Police said the kidnappers landed in Tawi-Tawi’s Languyan township and burned their boat in a bid to hide its owner.
Golden Bay’s Steamed Goto is a dish that looks deceptively simple; this impression quickly disappears with the first bite, which bathes the mouth with indescribable richness. To enjoy the dish fully, one should chew very slowly, savoring the nuances of dozens of herbs the tripe was simmered in. A few slivers of fresh green and red chili peppers enliven the meat, elevating the experience to sensuous heights.


Sarenas said he, Horn and Vinciguerra arrived in Tawi-Tawi on Sunday in search of the Sulu hornbill, said to be the most endangered hornbill in the world.
CONGEES AND OTHERS – Like many Hong Kong residents, I got used to congee breakfast, teamed with salty stuff. At Golden Bay, my favorite congee partners are Rice Roll with Abalone Sauce and Radish Cake with XO Sauce and Crispy Dried Scallops.


Tawi-Tawi is famed for virgin beaches surrounded by crystal blue waters. But like most areas in the restive southern Philippines, it is undeveloped because of years of violence, including ransom kidnappings, bomb attacks and fighting between troops and Muslim rebels.
The Rice Rolls are Ho-Fan, or sheets of steamed ground rice batter rolled and bathed in thick Abalone Sauce. The Radish Cake is cubed, fried, bathed in sauce and covered with a thick layer of crisp shreds of fried dried imported scallops. How’s that for decadent?


After spending three days in a mountain forest, the three were heading back to the provincial capital of Bongao by boat Wednesday when five rifle-toting gunmen on another boat fired warning shots and intercepted them, Sarenas said.
Of course, one should not miss what we call Pata Tim, listed on the menu as Steamed Pig Knuckle with Preserved Beancurd. Melt-in-the-mouth pig trotters come with bone marrow that’s to die for, stewed in cubes of preserved beancurd which we call tahure. This is a welcome twist from the ordinary stew using salted black beans or tausi; it’s complex in flavor and more authentic. Makes one want to pour it over plain steamed rice.


Muslim insurgents have been fighting for minority self-rule in the predominantly Christian nation’s south, and the Abu Sayyaf is the most violent group. The militants have been holding an Australian man abducted in December, as well as a Japanese and a Malaysian.
CHEAPER THAN FASTFOOD – The Golden Bay’s dimsum menu regular prices are lower by half compared to dishes of the same quality in five-star hotels. This summer, there is an ongoing promo that is offering 50% off the regular dimsum prices.


==Abductions in Mindanao seen to derail Philippine tourism campaign==
Bottomline? Golden Bay’s authentic Hong Kong dimsum are now discounted to only P63 to P75 per order. This is definitely cheaper than most fastfood outlets considering the larger servings and superior quality.
*Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=774357&publicationSubCategoryId=200
*February 04, 2012 03:02 PM
:by philstar.com


“We are not after profits. Our aim is authenticity, pleasant ambience and to bring Hong Kong dimsum to Manila at prices that will be more affordable for more people,” Joseph Wong says, laying out the goals of the country’s premier dimsum destination.


==Roperos: Cost of living pains==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/opinion/2012/04/18/roperos-cost-living-pains-216824
*Wednesday, April 18, 2012
:by Godofredo M. Roperos
Politics also


MANILA, (Xinhua) -- The recent abduction of two Europeans in the island-province of Tawi-Tawi in the southernmost tip of the Philippines and the continued terrorist threat in Mindanao could derail the government's ambitious plan to make the Philippines a top tourist destination in Asia.


After a spike in tourist arrivals last year, the Philippine government is now crafting a long-range program that would make tourism a major engine in the country's economic growth.
YESTERDAY, there was a story in this daily about the city’s waterworks system being the subject of complaints by some subscribers who suddenly found their water faucets dry. They realized that the Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD) had interrupted its services to repair pipe leakage in some parts of the city.


For the first nine months of 2011, visitor arrivals increased by 12 percent to 3.7 million, with South Korea being the country's largest tourism market, followed by the United States, Japan, China and Australia.
Of course, the subscribers failed to realize that what they experienced was one of the hazards of urban living. It is the way we live today that sometimes subjects us to certain discomforts.


Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez said that the Department of Tourism (DOT) is now finalizing the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) that aims to attract 10 million foreign visitors to the country by 2016. The DOT hopes to increase tourist arrivals this year to 4.2 million.
When I was still a kid in the countryside, I often went with my grandfather to his farm about three kilometers away from the poblacion. There was a concrete tank on a promontory overlooking his cornfield. The Tangke was the source of the piped water to the houses in the poblacion.


Last year, Malaysia had 32 million tourists while Thailand had 14 million visitors.
No wonder the water turned brackish when there was heavy rain, and we were warned not to drink the water when it was brackish. Then, when it was election season, I remember candidates promising to improve our water system so we would not get sick when the water would turn brackish.


The abduction on Feb. 1 of Elwold Horn, a 52- year old Dutch, and Lorenzo Vinciguerra, a 47-year old Swiss, in Parangan, Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi province by armed men, however, could throw a monkey wrench in the government's grandiose tourism plans.
Many years later, when I started covering the rural areas from Aparri of the Cagayan Valley in the north, to Tawi-tawi in the Muslim country of the far south, I realized how gravely had water grown to be a national problem. This despite efforts of government to initiate various projects to provide water in our communities.


The two foreigners, reportedly wildlife photographers, were seized while on board a pump boat along with a certain Ivan Sarenas, a local guide, who was able to escape.
But then only recently, there was the typhoid outbreak in Tuburan that was generally blamed on water. It really seemed as if the problem of providing safe water source to our rural communities would drag on across the years as a continuing problem seeking solution. This is, of course, one of the basic political issues that our government is constantly challenged, just like the problem of power and the environment.


The kidnapping, which has remained unresolved four days after it happened, has prompted the British embassy in Manila to reissue a travel advisory for its citizens.
Not very long ago, our drainage canal was unable to function effectively. Imagine my surprise one morning when we awoke with rainwater flooding our ground-floor. Since rain went on for days, water also stayed on in our ground floor, until we sought the help of the mayor who had the highway drainage canal cleared of debris and plastic waste.


"We advise against all travel to southwest Mindanao covering the following areas: Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which includes Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, and the islands of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi) plus the provinces of Sarangani, North and South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay," the embassy travel advisory says.
Now, it is my power bill that I am concerned with. But my request to Cebeco III to change my power meter has not been heeded in the past two months. With the cost of living having gone up, even the cost of kitchen gas going up a thousand pesos a tank, we pray that our basic services suppliers would listen to our appeal for help. But then, the contemporary existence is something we can no more avoid than we can climate change. It is a reality of our present urban existence that we just have to suffer through, and coyly live with.


The embassy also advised against "all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao because of ongoing terrorist activity." It said there have been a number of attacks against civilian targets in several areas in Mindanao since November 2011 that included at least 10 bombing incidents in North Cotabato, Cotabato City, Sulu, Sultan Kudarat, and Zamboanga killing a total of eight people and wounding of 66 others.


In 2011, some 130,000 British tourists visited the Philippines.


Aside from the Feb. 1 kidnapping of the two Europeans in Tawi- Tawi, an Australian citizen was also kidnapped in Zamboanga Sibubay on Dec. 5, 2011. On July 12, 2011 two American citizens and a Filipino were also kidnapped from a resort on the island of Tictabon near Zamboanga City.


The embassies of the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have also issued similar advisories to their citizens.


Earlier, the Philippines strongly urged members of the United Nations Security Council to take a "balanced" approach in the international campaign against terrorism and called on governments to "exercise due care and diligence" in issuing travel advisories.


The call, issued during the Security Council meeting in November, said a balance must also be achieved in the issuance of travel advisories, particularly those that relate to "possible terrorist attacks."


"While the Philippines recognized the responsibility of states to protect their citizens, Manila believed that governments must exercise due care and diligence in issuing travel advisories," the government said.


Meanwhile, Malacanang, the seat of the Philippine government, has tried to reassure foreign embassies on the latest kidnapping incident. 


"We condemn the abduction, and the national and local governments, as well as all agencies concerned, are working to ensure the resolution of the situation, the recovery and release of the men who remain in the hands of their captors, and the bringing to justice of the lawless elements involved," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said.


Valte urged foreign tourists to check with the Department of Foreign Affairs, as well as their own embassies, regarding advisories on conditions that may affect their travel and other arrangements while visiting the Philippines.
==Tawi-Tawi peace council convened to address Sitangkai conflict==
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/46406-Tawi-Tawi-peace-council-convened-to-address-Sitangkai-conflict.html
*Tuesday, April 17. 2012
:by (PNA)
LAP/FMS/mec


The military has suspected rogue members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to be behind the abduction of the two European tourists.


"There was information that rogue elements of the MNLF were involved. But we are verifying the reports," said Armed Forces chief of staff Jessie Dellosa.
ZAMBOANGA CITY — Governor Hadji Sadikul Sahali has convened the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) to settle a clan war in that otherwise peaceful province in Southeestern Philippines.
Sahali, who chairs the PPOC, said that his agenda in convening the council was to address the armed conflict between two groups in the Municipality of Sitangkai that has been reportedly escalating.
The PPOC chairman has directed the Police Provincial Director Sr. Supt. Rodelio Jocson to provide him with regular updates on the situation in the area.
Initially, Jocson confirmed that there has been armed engagement between the two warring factions, which were not identified.
However, he said that the groups have agreed on a ceasefire and settlement of the conflict is under negotiation.
He also said that the peace and order situation in the Province of Tawi-Tawi is manageable and there is no cause for alarm.
In the same manner, Task Force 62 Commander, Navy Captain Renato Yongque also said that Tawi-Tawi in its entirety is peaceful, “that is why there is no military movement,” he stressed.
Yongque also cited that the military has made changes in its approach and has adopted the so-called “Internal Peace and Security Plan or the Bayanihan,” composed of teams of selected soldiers to help work for peace in the community.
Meanwhile, Sahali said that the conflict in Sitangkai between the two groups is purely a clan war, which is normally occurring in the province and elsewhere.
He stressed his optimism that such conflict could be addressed soon, just like incidents of the same nature that have already occurred in the past but were given solutions.
“We have peace in Tawi-Tawi, and we will protect that peace,” the governor stressed.


Dellosa said government troops and the police have intensified the pursuit operation to locate the victims and their abductors in an area of Tawi-Tawi.


But Dellosa also cited the possibility that the kidnappers might have escaped to nearby Sulu province where military forces have launched intensified operations following the air strike that reportedly killed 15 top-ranking Islamic terrorists with links to Al Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiyah (JI).


According to the military, among those killed in the air strike in Parang, Sulu last Thursday were three of the most wanted terrorist leaders: Malaysian Zulfikli bin Hir, also known as Marwan, a top JI leader; Abu Sayyaf leader Umbra Jumdail alias Doc Abu; and Singaporean JI leader Abdullah Ali alias Mauwiya.




Line 616: Line 831:




==Rescued==
*Source: http://www.tawitawi.net/rescued/
*APRIL 16, 2012
:by www.tawitawi.net


==British nationals warned: Don’t go to Mindanao==
*Source: http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/news/national/23162-british-nationals-warned-dont-go-to-mindanao
*Friday, February 03, 2012
:by Jun Pisco




Two alleged victims of human trafficking were rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) while onboard a ship in Tawi-Tawi. Lieutenant Commander Algier Ricafrent, PCG spokesman, said that Coast Guard Station-Bongao received a report that two teenagers – Remelyn Ponce, 18 and Roselyn Ponce, 16 – who were reportedly victims of human trafficking, were held onboard MV TrishaKerstin-2 while en route to Bongao, Tawi Tawi on April 10.


THE British Embassy in Manila yesterday issued a travel advisory warning its nationals about the threat of kidnapping in southern Philippines.
Further investigation disclosed that the girls, who left home without the knowledge of their families, were promised jobs as domestic helpers in Malaysia. Upon learning of the incident, Ponce’s mother sought assistance from the Coast Guard.


This, following the abduction of two European tourists along with their Filipino guide in Tawi-Tawi on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, five persons were arrested in separate anti-illegal drugs operations in Quezon City since Friday afternoon. Investigators of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) identified the arrested suspects as Mary Jane Obarra, 39; Danilo Fernando Sr., 52; Theresa Cruz, 43; Gilbert Cruz, 22; and Aldrin Rivera, 22.


The embassy cited in its travel advice the February 1 kidnapping of the two foreign nationals from Parangan in the township of Panglima Sugala in Tawi-Tawi island province and the abduction of an Australian citizen in Zamboanga Sibugay on December 5.


“There is also a threat from kidnapping in the Philippines particularly in the southern Philippines. Kidnapping could occur anywhere, including on coastal and island resorts and on dive boats and sites in the Sulu Sea. Foreigners have been targeted in rural, urban and coastal areas in the past,” according to the travel advice.


Abducted were Dutch Ewold Horn and Swiss Lorenzo Vinziguerre, who were snatched with their guide by an armed group in the country’s southernmost Tawi-Tawi island province.


The Dutch Embassy in Manila confirmed the kidnapping and said it was working on the case.


The military said there were reports that the Swiss and Dutch tourists were wildlife photographers.


British nationals, thus, are advised against all travel to south-west Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of on-going terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups.


There have been a number of attacks against civilian targets.  Since November 2011, there have been at least 10 bombing incidents in North Cotabato, Cotabato City, Sulu, Sultan Kudarat and Zamboanga, killing a total of eight people and leaving 66 others wounded.








==Promoting Tourism on Beautiful but Violent Tawi-Tawi==
*Source: http://www.bongao.net/promoting-tourism-on-beautiful-but-violent-tawi-tawi/
*Apr 15th, 2012
:by Bongao.






The island’s pristine waters, prehistoric caves and mountain lookouts, it turns out, lie in the vicinity of fierce battles between rebel groups and the Philippine military.


Kidnappings are a recurring problem on Tawi-Tawi, and clan warfare, beheadings and roadside bombs are all too common on the surrounding islands in the southern Philippines. Nonetheless, Gov. Sadikul Sahali and local tourism officials are laying out the welcome mat, with a new promotional campaign aimed at trumpeting the charms of Tawi-Tawi and other nearby isles.


National tourism officials are opposed to foreigners visiting the area because of the dangers. A national tourism campaign, with the slogan “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” has been something of a sensation on the Internet, though, and users have appropriated the slogan in postings on social media sites to celebrate — and mock — what constitutes “fun” in some areas. One such image under the heading “Vacation. It’s More Fun in the Philippines” shows a kidnapped couple flanked by masked, armed men in Mindanao, the easternmost island in the Philippines.


==2 wildlife photographers kidnapped in Tawi-Tawi==
“If you are in central and western Mindanao, you should leave immediately,” states a recent travel advisory from the Australian government to its citizens.
*Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/02/01/12/2-wildlife-photographers-kidnapped-tawi-tawi
*02/01/2012 8:14 PM | Updated as of 02/01/2012 8:53 PM
:by  ABS-CBNnews.com


“If, despite our very strong advice against travel, you decide to visit central or western Mindanao,” it added, “you should put in place robust measures to ensure your personal security, seek professional security advice and take out kidnapping insurance.”


MANILA, Philippines – Two foreigners and their Filipino guide were kidnapped in Panglima Sugala town in Tawi-Tawi Tuesday afternoon, a military official said.
The United States, Britain and many other countries have had similar travel warnings for more than a decade.


Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Philippine National Police (ARMM-PNP) regional director Chief Superintendent Bienvenido Latag identified the kidnapped victims as Elwold Horn from Holland, Lorenzo Vinciguerra from Switzerland and Ivan Sarenas from Davao City.
It is no surprise, given the recent history of the area around Tawi-Tawi, that visitors are urged to arrange security along with their tour packages.


Latag said 5 suspects armed with M-203, two M-16 rifles and two .45 caliber pistols aboard a pump boat abducted the victims at Sitio Luuk, Barangay Parangan, Panglima Sugala town.
On nearby Jolo Island in February, Philippine Air Force jets dropped two bombs that killed more than a dozen rebels, including top leaders of a regional terrorist network with links to Al Qaeda, military officials said.


Tawi-Tawi Vice Governor Ruby Sahali said the municipal councilor of Panglima Sugala, Nestor Cabaluas, was also kidnapped but was able to escape.
A nearby island, Basilan, is a stronghold for the top terrorist organization in the Philippines, Abu Sayyaf.


Lt. Col. Randolph Cabangbang, spokesman of the military’s Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City, said soldiers have already been dispatched to rescue the kidnapped victims.
Just beyond Basilan, in Zamboanga Sibugay Province, Warren Richard Rodwell, a 53-year-old Australian, has been held captive since his abduction on Dec. 5. In July, a vacationing American, Gerfa Yeatts Lunsmann, her 14-year-old son and her 19-year-old Filipino nephew were kidnapped in a coastal area of Zamboanga City. All three are now free, and Ms. Lunsmann and her son have returned to the United States. No one has confirmed or denied rumors that ransoms were paid.


“Accordingly, the foreign nationals, together with Nestor Cabaluas, went at said place when the group, armed with M-16 rifles and caliber .45 pistols, grabbed the victims and dragged them to the shorelines where the watercraft was waiting while Cabaluas escaped,” said Cabangbang.
Despite the warnings, two European birdwatchers decided to visit Tawi-Tawi in hopes of seeing the extremely rare Sulu hornbill. They were kidnapped on Feb. 1 and remain in captivity. The violence and kidnappings in the south pose a significant problem for Philippine tourism officials.


“After said abduction, the abductors fled towards Barangay Lambog, Panglima Sugala, same province. So far, this is the only information we received,” added Cabangbang.
“The Philippines remains an ideal destination, with foreign individuals and groups continuing to arrive,” the Department of Tourism said in a statement shortly after the birdwatchers were kidnapped. “So far, no cancellations have been made.”


Sahali said the foreigners are wildlife photographers and have been in the island province for about two weeks.
In Bongao, on Tawi-Tawi, the desk clerk at the Beachside Inn, Nur Uddin, said by telephone that foreigners continued to arrive, although not very often. “If you come here, you should hire a security guard to make sure you are safe,” he said.


"They are here for bird watching." Sahali said. "They are amazed by the vast bird species that we have in the island."
Salvacion Pescadera, a provincial tourism officer, said the kidnapping of the birdwatchers was an isolated case that, she said, occurred because they had not sought security clearance from the Tourism Department before visiting a remote area. She said that her office coordinated with the local police to provide security for visitors. “You’ll be in good hands,” she said.


Sahali said the visitors spent their time in the province searching for birds in the jungles and were set to return to Poblacion Bato-Bato in the afternoon.
==DENR, tourism council seek more no-mining zones==
*Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/176421/denr-tourism-council-seek-more-no-mining-zones
*4:59 am | Saturday, April 14th, 2012
:by  Kristine L. Alave
Philippine Daily Inquirer


Meanwhile, authorities are investigating the possible affiliation of the armed men with the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf.


A rescue operation is ongoing.


“We have a Marine battalion there, the 4th Marine Battalion Landing Team. We have dispatched troops from the battalion to rescue the kidnapped foreigners,” said Cabangbang. -- With a report from Queenie Casimiro, ABS-CBN News Zamboanga
MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Tourism Council last week endorsed proposals to delineate hundreds of areas as “no-mining zones.”
According to Environment Secretary Ramon Paje, the DENR has recommended that the government add nine more sites to its current list of 239 protected areas. Of those already on the list, 178 of them would be further declared as “eco-tourism zones,” to expand their protection from all extractive activities, including small-scale mining.
The nine new areas to be placed under the conservation area status are: Balbalan-Balbalasang National Park in the Cordillera Region, Zambales Mountains in Regions 1 and 3, Mts. Irid Angelo and Binuang in Region 4A, Polilio Group of Islands, also in Region 4A, Mts. Iglit Baco National Park in Region 4B, Nug as Lantoy in Region 7, Mt. Nacolod in Region 8, Mt. Hilong-hilong in Region 13, and Bongao Peak in Tawi-tawi Island.
On strengthening restrictions in 178 protected areas, Paje said:  “The priority land use in these areas is tourism,” Paje said. “We have agreed that these areas are no-mining zones,” Paje added.
‘In conflict’
He said government is supportive of the idea since it wants to bolster the country’s tourism industry. A few months ago, the Department of Tourism launched a campaign with a tag line “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” to entice more foreign tourists to come to the country.
The move to delineate more protected areas came after DENR, Silliman University and the German aid agency noted that the National Integrated Protected Areas System (Nipas) Act of 1992 has loopholes that allow some extractive and commercial activities even in protected areas.
Also, the review noted that current laws on protected areas and the Mining Act of 1995 are “in conflict” when it comes to areas that are open to mining and areas with a protected status.
The Nipas law also mandates Congress to declare a particular area as a protected site, which is an expensive and long process.


==Govt on track in zero-rice import goal==
==DPWH Sec. Sadain visits, inspects Tawi- Tawi Projects==
*Source: http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/top-news/22627-govt-on-track-in-zero-rice-import-goal
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/44752-DPWH-Sec.-Sadain-visits,-inspects-Tawi-Tawi-Projects.html
*MONDAY, 30 JANUARY 2012 23:00
*Tuesday, March 13. 2012
:by  Cai U. Ordinario
:by  (PR/BFC)




THE government remains on track on its  “zero rice importation” goal by 2013, Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said on Monday.


In a radio interview, he said achieving rice self-sufficiency remained a top priority of the Aquino administration. To achieve this, he said his department was exerting efforts to not only increase palay production but also become self-sufficient in food staples.
BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi- (March 11, 2012) Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Secretary Emil K. Sadain personally inspected on-going projects being undertaken by the ARMM government in the island provinces over the weekends.


These new staples include white corn and root crops such as cassava and kamote, which can be consumed together with rice. It is widely known that in the Visayas, locals consume rice with corn grits; in Mindanao, many consume rice with cassava.


“In order that we will no longer import rice from other countries in 2013, we have intensified our efforts to shift our focus on food staple sufficiency. This includes the promotion and use of the right volume of rice or palay together with other staples like root crops,” Alcala said in the vernacular.
Sec. Sadain made his province-hopping across the southern islands including Tawi-Tawi where he, along with local executives led by Gov. Sadikul Sahali officially inspected the continuing construction of three steel bridges worth approximately P97.0 M across the Sanga-Sanga-Lapid-Lapid rapids in Bongao town, which, if completed, will spur economic growth as well as boost social transformation in the islands.


Alcala noted that there are already 14 million Filipinos eating corn grits with their rice while residents of Zamboanga Peninsula, Jolo, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are used to consuming rice with cassava. In Batanes, the known regional food staple is kamote, he said.
Phase I and II of the project had been substantially completed while Phase III posted accomplishment now at 98.13 percent complete while construction works still continuing and expected to be finished by September this year. Construction started last June 10, 2010.


Alcala said that to encourage the consumption of these staples, the agency is pushing for the increase in the production of good varieties to be distributed to other places in the country where there is low production and encourage consumption of these staples and reduction of the demand for rice.
Bridge Project Engr. Jul-Arab Kong of the DPWH-RO-9 said that by April of this year, President Benigno Aquino III is set to inaugurate and declare it open for public use.


“We hope that after 2013 our rice importation will hit zero. We want to spend taxpayer’s money which used to buy farmer’s products from other countries for products produced by Filipino farmers,” Alcala said.
Sec. Sadain, con-currently DPWH-President Bridge Program Director with an appointment as national Assistant Secretary, pointed out that after decades at attempting to construct the bridge projects, it is only now that we are to realize it.


Efforts to attain the government’s rice self-sufficiency goal by 2013 include the restoration, rehabilitation and maintenance of irrigation systems; increasing farmers’ access to inbred and hybrid seeds; and reduction of postharvest losses through mechanization.
The bridge project, one of the priorities of the national government would connect the Bongao capital town island to the other mainland island towns making accessible trade and commerce as well as allow the movements of people to travel by land, according to Sadain.


Alcala said the government is also looking at reducing rice wastage that was estimated three tablespoons or 14 grams in raw form per person. This would add up to at least 480,000 metric tons (MT) annually, the DA noted.
Sec. Sadain also led the ocular assessment and inspection of Tubig Malum (Rio Hondo) in Sitio Malum, Barangay Magsaggaw, Panglima Sugala town about 6 kilometers  from the capital Barangay Bato-Bato to determine the possibility for implementation of the proposed water system as a potential source of potable water. The water system will be tapped and distributed to the entire main island of the province. The river which stretches downstream from barangay Marang-Marang (Languyan town) to Barangay Magsaggaw extending further through Barangay Kulapi towards the southern tip of Panglima Sugala municipality has sufficient volume of fresh water that could cater a growing population.


Assistant Agriculture Secretary and Bureau of Agriculture Statistics (BAS) Director Romeo Recide said the farm sector benefited from the good weather, particularly the first half of 2011. This was able to boost palay production to around 16.68MMT in 2011. --Cai U. Ordinario
Meanwhile, Gov. Sahali briefed Sec. Sadain about the proposal to undertake the project because it is a priority need of the people. The Governor said it’s high time that a viable and sustainable water works system harnessing the Malum River will address the perennial shortage of water supply in the island province Sahali, likewise emphasized his willingness to extend his local counterpart contribution to start with the project even as he toured the ARMM official to the site despite the difficulty in traversing the rugged road conditions and trails to reach the area.


==Tawi-Tawi Turtles Yield 1.4-M Eggs==
“We must do an actual assessment of the situation on the ground and know where to start,” Sadain emphasized even as he assured to work for its realization under PNoy’s administration.
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/349562/tawitawi-turtles-yield-14m-eggs
*January 28, 2012, 7:07pm
:by  ALI G. MACABALANG


Accompanied by DPWH officials and staff, Sadain took time out to conduct consultations with the seven district officials of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao, who joined him in Tawi-Tawi for the  holding of the First Joint Regional and District Conference held at the DPWH district office in Bongao town, where the DPWH-ARMM Reform Agenda 2012 was laid down as a policy guidelines of the ARMM leadership by fully implementing important milestone projects using available resources and funding.


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi, Philippines – Green turtles abounding in this southernmost province have laid more than 1.4-million eggs on Baguan Island last year, posting an all-time high national record of nesting since 1984, according to the Conservation International Philippines (CIP).
Tawi-Tawi DPWH District Engr. Bensoud Ajihil, who played host to the conference vowed to continue to support the ARMM Secretary in fulfilling the reform agenda as mandated by doing its share in developing the southern frontier of the country.


The CIP said it has recorded a total of 14,220 green turtle nests on Baguan in 2011 with a total number of eggs surpassing 1,440,000.
Sadain said that in support of the reform programs and good governance of ARMM, milestone targets has been set in place.


The volume of “1.44-million Green turtle eggs in one year is an astounding number for a nesting beach that’s only a little over one kilometer in length. This definitely presents great hope for boosting green turtle populations,” said CIP Country Executive Director Romeo Trono.
He declared that DPWH-ARMM has attained remarkable achievements in the pursuit of reform for good governance, defining its new policies and programs in the field of administrative, technical and financial matters, in just almost 3 months since he assumed.


Reports from the DENR show that since the previous high of 12,311 turtle nests recorded in 1995, nesting records in Baguan have been declining and dropped to as low as just over 4,000 nests in 2003.
He said, the first 100 days accomplishments, for both physical and financial inclusive of the difficulties encountered, the impact of the programs and activities as reflected in the reports as well as recommendations has been submitted to the ARMM regional Governor.


Authorities attributed the decline to poaching by foreign fishermen, egg harvesting by local communities for food and trade, destruction or disturbance of habitats through illegal fishing methods, and law enforcement ineffectiveness.
Discussions also centered on all the accomplishments of the department and the sharing of information on the problems experienced with regards to project implementation and on how to address them.


“The increasing nest numbers show that when turtles are protected on their nesting beaches and in the water for long enough, they will recover,” said Dr. Bryan Wallace, director of science for Marine Flagship Species Program at CIP.
Sadain is optimistic, with help from all stakeholders to include local government units, Barangays, the NGO’s and the members of the community; ARMM will be able to take off from its slumber under the present administration of Regional Gov. Hataman.


Meanwhile, the Philippine Turtle Islands’ enforcement team strengthened its marine management by giving training to park wardens, law enforcers, and community volunteers, and deploying officers and personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Marines to the area.
Sadain, who assumed last January 17, 2012 as DPWH cabinet secretary promised to institute changes not only from within the system but also develop a scheme to address on the deep-seated “culture of people” working habits in bringing the desired development for the ARMM.


Earlier, Saidain said that when he was appointed as the DPWH-ARMM secretary, he noticed that it's not only the system that need to be changed but also the culture of the people working on it especially the public officials particularly those under his supervision from what he described as, “from the culture of officials down to workers in the office” and the department's programming on project implementation solely focuses on local roads which were then gradually destroyed as of this period.


On national roads with a total of 1,100 kilometers, about 70 percent of the road was done adding that with the marching orders of the President to the newly appointed ARMM governor to cover the 100 percent National paved roads by next midterm elections, due to that the 70 percent of the national roads should be given right priority under the program of DPWH-ARMM.


Sadain added he is now in the midst of undertaking the needed reforms within his department to set the right example and provide the avenue for real change to take its course for the good of the ARMM constituents.


Part of the reform effort focuses on reviewing falsified documents on the appointments of employees while upholding civil service rulings in cleansing his department on the old ways of culture to professionalize the bureaucracy, according to Sadain.


Sec. Sadain claimed that President Aquino’s choice for OIC Regional Gov. Hataman is welcome as the latter is sincere and committed in delivering reform in the ARMM Region even as he expects everyone to support.


The department also looks forward in developing some projects that would invite donor countries in the form of providing grants such as the USAID, Organization of Islamic Conference, JICA and others that extends assistance for member countries.


Much earlier, Sec. Sadain has issued a memo to the two district engineering offices which compliments the first district of Maguindanao and the second district of Lanao del Sur for the maintenance of road clearing for the commuters to feel comfortable in their travel from Cotabato City up to Parang and Malabang all the way to Marawi City which stretch up to 70 kilometers long. The road signage's on the sharp curves, street markings and kilometer posts were planned to be placed along the roadsides.


==Sea turtles lay over 1.4M eggs in Tawi-tawi==
The department targets to cater about 80 percent of the budget focused on national roads and bridges and the balance will be considered by 2013. He further explained that he sub-divided their office programming, 80 percent of it for the national roads and 20 percent for the high-impact or strategic roads adding that these roads are those problematic roads on calamity or conflict affected areas.
*Source: http://www.philstar.com/nation/article.aspx?publicationsubcategoryid=200&articleid=771806
*January 27, 2012 01:19 PM
:by Jlyne Ubiña


While in Basilan, the secretary accompanied Governor Hataman to inaugurate the multi-million pesos worth of JICA-funded Integrated port Terminal in Lamitan City and inspected other infra projects.


MANILA, Philippines – More than one million green turtle eggs were laid last year on Baguan Island in Tawi-Tawi, achieving an all-time high record of nesting since 1984, the Conservation International Philippines announced today.
In Sulu, Sadain, together with the regional governor and Sulu officials led the ground-breaking of Jolo-Taglibi-Tiptipun road network; inspection of the existing and on-going construction road projects; visit of the area equipment and the Sulu’s two engineering district offices; assessment of the proposed water and drainage systems in Jolo; and meeting with local officials led by Gov. Sakur Tan.
A total of 14,220 green turtle nests were recorded in Baguan in 2011 with a total number of eggs surpassing 1,440,000.
“1.44 million green turtle eggs in one year is an astounding number for a nesting beach that’s only a little over one kilometer in length. This definitely presents great hope for boosting green turtle populations,” said CI Philippines Country Executive Director Romeo Trono.
Figures from the DENR show that since the previous high of 12,311 turtle nests recorded in 1995, Baguan’s nesting records have been declining and dropped to as low as just over 4,000 nests in 2003.
Poaching by foreign fishermen, egg harvesting by local communities for food and trade, destruction and disturbance of habitats through illegal fishing methods and weak law enforcement were identified as the causes of the decline.
“The increasing nest numbers show that when turtles are protected on their nesting beaches and in the water for long enough, they will recover,” said Dr. Bryan Wallace, director of Science for the Marine Flagship Species Program at CI.
Meanwhile, The Philippine Turtle Islands’ enforcement team strengthened its marine management by providing trainings to park wardens, law enforcers and community volunteers. It also includes deployment of officers and personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Marines to the area.
Bold protection measures such as the establishment of Baguan no-take zone and the complete protection status of the Turtle Islands Park in Sabah had been instrumental in ensuring a safe haven for turtles.
Conservation initiatives in Baguan are partially supported by the Global Marine Division of Conservation International and the Coral Triangle Support Partnership funded by the United States Agency for International Development.
“The hatchlings that emerge from the Turtle Islands still face great risks throughout their lives as they journey through the ocean, but at least here in the Turtle Islands, we are determined to provide them with a good start,” added Trono.


==ARMM Gov appoints new agriculture chief from Tawi-Tawi==
In the Secretary’s entourage were Maguindanao District Engineers Emran Buisan (Dist. 1), and Zainal Mlok (Dist. 2), Lanao District Engineers Tetinga Langit Sumagayan (Dist. 1) and Maldamin Decampong (Dist. 2), Sulu D.E. Taballang Atluh (Dist. 1) and Barlie Nahudan (Dist. 2), Basilan D.E. Bensali Kasim and Tawi-Tawi D.E. Bensoud Ajihil.
*Source: http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/inside-stories/8295-armm-gov-appoints-new-agriculture-chief-from-tawi-tawi.html
*Thursday, 26 January 2012 10:13
:by  BPI-ARMM/RVC-PIA9 ZBST


==Simunul Mayor ousted==
*Source: http://www.zamboangatoday.ph/index.php/news/13-top-stories/9462-simunul-mayor-ousted.html
*Thursday, 12 April 2012 11:43
:by  Press Release


ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv  S. Hataman appointed on January 17 former Provincial Agricultural Officer of Tawi-Tawi, Professor Sangkula A. Tindick, as Regional Cabinet Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.


The Bureau of Public Information reveals that the newly appointed secretary immediately held a meeting after taking his oath of office, with OIC Secretary Keise Tan Usman and other senior DAF officials where he was apprised of the status of the office including the preparations for the programs, projects and activities for the first 100 days of the Governor Hataman in office.
Nazif Ahmad B. Abdurahman, the mayor of Simunul, a fourth class and one of the 11 municipalities in Tawi-Tawi, has been ousted from office.
This came about as Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 5 Acting Presiding Judge Peter V. Eisma of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, has issued a five-page Special Order dated April 2, 2012 granting the “motion for execution” of its February 10, 2012 order that “annulled and set aside” Abdurahman's proclamation and declared Benzar N. Tambut as the duly elected mayor of Simunul municipality, Province of Tawi-Tawi.


The formal turnover was done the next day at the covered court to allow for the attendance of the whole DAF regional manpower as well as those from DAF Maguindanao.   
“Wherefore, judgment is hereby rendered, finding the protestant Benzar N. Tambut as the duly elected Municipal Mayor of the Municipality of Simunul, Province of Tawi-Tawi. The proclamation of the protestee Nazif Ahmad B. Abdurahman as Municipal Mayor of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi in the last May 10, 2012 elections is hereby ANNULED and SET ASIDE,” the Court stated in its February 10, 2012 decision.   


Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Director Usman bared the steps undertaken during his nearly one month caretaker stint such as facilitating measures for the release of program funds for rice, corn, livestock and high value crops which were not released by the Department of Agriculture Central Office to DAF ARMM since 2011.
The Court issued the order after Tambut, assisted by election lawyer Quirino Esguerra, Jr., has protested Abdurahman's proclamation citing various irregularities allegedly conducted and/or perpetrated by Abdurahman and/or his followers and cohorts during the conduct of the automated national and local elections on May 10, 2010.


The release of said funds would jumpstart projects to enhance agricultural productivity such as those identified for the first 100 days of the present regional leadership. Director Usman assured the full support of the fisheries bureau whose performance as top fisheries producer of the country was acknowledged by Secretary Tindick in his fatherly and jovial talk with the DAF family.
Tambut has contested and impugned the results of six of the total 20 clustered precincts for the mayoralty position.
Earlier, Abdurahman was proclaimed as the winner in the mayoralty race having garnered the highest votes casted and canvassed during the May 10, 2010 election with a total of 2,955 votes as compared to Tambut who obtained 2,386 votes, the second highest ranking in the race of six aspirants for mayor.


Secretary Tindick bared his marching order from Governor Hataman to institute an array of necessary reforms to make the agriculture and fishery agency more responsive to the developmental needs of the people of ARMM.
However, the Court, after the revision and judicial appreciation of ballots, has annulled and set aside Aburahman's proclamation since it found out that Tambut garnered 2,329 votes while Abdurahman garnered a total of 1,933 votes or with a difference of 396 votes.


An accounting management Professor before becoming part of DAF, he intends to institute a system that would enhance the efficiency of the office in delivering its mandate “to make agriculture and agri-based enterprises profitable and help spread the benefits of development to the poor, particularly in the rural areas”.
The Court in its April 2, 2012 decision has cited “public interest” in granting the “motion for execution” filed by Tambut and Esguerra, his legal counsel.


The Regional Secretary emphasized the need for unity or teamwork by actually experiencing thru an exercise called “rocking the boat.”  In the exercise, done after his acceptance remark, the Secretary proved that without teamwork, the whole agency capacity to deliver its mandate may be jeopardized.  The “rocking the boat” showed the chaos, contradictions and danger that awaits an institution when there is poor communication, disunity and command breakdown.
“Public interest involved is beyond doubt that warrants the execution of the decision of this court pending appeal when this court established the true and genuine expression of the will of the electorate of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, thereby establishing protestant's right to the contested office by declaring him undoubtedly the true and genuine winner with a plurality of Three Hundred Ninety Six (396) votes as manifestly established in the decision promulgated by this Court on February 10, 2012,” the Court said.


==ARMM OIC appoints new agriculture chief==
“Public interest demands the immediate execution of the decision of the court and to rule against the execution pending appeal is greatly prejudicial to the constituents of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi whose true and genuine winner has been judicially determined by this court,” the Court added.
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=73843
*Wednesday, January 25, 2012
:by  PIA Press Release




ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Jan 25 (PIA) -– ARMM Acting Governor Mujiv S. Hataman appointed on January 17 former Provincial Agricultural Officer of Tawi-Tawi, Professor Sangkula A. Tindick as Regional Cabinet Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
The Bureau of Public Information reveals that the newly appointed secretary immediately held a meeting after taking his oath of office, with OIC Secretary Keise Tan Usman and other senior DAF officials where he was apprised of the status of the office including the preparations for the programs, projects and activities for the first 100 days of the Governor Hataman in office.
The formal turnover was done the next day at the covered court to allow for the attendance of the whole DAF regional manpower as well as those from DAF Maguindanao.
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Director Usman bared the steps undertaken during his nearly one month caretaker stint such as facilitating measures for the release of program funds for rice, corn, livestock and high value crops which were not released by the Department of Agriculture Central Office to DAF ARMM since 2011.
The release of said funds would jumpstart projects to enhance agricultural productivity such as those identified for the first 100 days of the present regional leadership. Director Usman assured the full support of the fisheries bureau whose performance as top fisheries producer of the country was acknowledged by Tindick in his fatherly and jovial talk with the DAF family.
Tindick bared his marching order from Governor Hataman to institute an array of necessary reforms to make the agriculture and fishery agency more responsive to the developmental needs of the people of ARMM.
An accounting management Professor before becoming part of DAF, he intends to institute a system that would enhance the efficiency of the office in delivering its mandate “to make agriculture and agri-based enterprises profitable and help spread the benefits of development to the poor, particularly in the rural areas”.
The Regional Secretary emphasized the need for unity or teamwork by actually experiencing thru an exercise called “rocking the boat.” In the exercise, done after his acceptance remark, the Secretary proved that without teamwork, the whole agency capacity to deliver its mandate may be jeopardized. The “rocking the boat” showed the chaos, contradictions and danger that awaits an institution when there is poor communication, disunity and command breakdown. (JPA/BPI-ARMM/RVC-PIA9 ZBST)


==More fun in these Southeast Asian hidden beaches==
*Source: http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/42195-More-fun-in-these-Southeast-Asian-hidden-beaches.html
*Sunday, January 22. 2012
:by  HONOR BLANCO CABIE




MANILA — Often described as the Land of the Morning, from the Philippines' English version of its national anthem, this Southeast Asian archipelago takes pride in its paradise of beaches.
Given its 7,107 islands from Batanes up north to Tawi Tawi in the far south, approximately the length of China's Great Wall, any tourist, foreign or local, can make a memory in any of its available beaches.
And, with Philippine summer 2012 breathing down any tourist's need, the tourism department's "it's more fun in the Philippines" slogan is literally picking up.
One can literally have Eden in the country's beaches during summer, when the scorching sun exhales 32 degrees Celsius.
Good thing about these available beaches is the convenient proximity of beach resorts and cottages where tourists may stay for a couple of nights or more.
Up north, in the northwestern zone of the country's main island of luzon whipped by winds from the Luzon Bay are the beaches of Pagudpud and Currimao towns in Ilocos Norte where the cable link between Luzon and Hawaii begins.
In Pagudpud, 10 hours by bus from Manila, one can also have a glimpse of the power generating windmills in the nearby coastal town of Bangui, which also has its own class of resorts in the shadow of the Ilocos Mountain range.
Farther south is the Pug-os Beach Resort in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, where one can go surfing in early morning before the tropic sun could breach the crowns of the Ilocos mountain range.
There are several cottages on the beach side, with amenities of three-star hotels including convention halls.
Only three towns away due north of Cabugao is Pinili, where warriors walked at the turn of the 20th century and during the Japanese occupation of the country in the 1940s.
In the 1900s, better armed American troops met machete-wielding guerrillas of Catholic priest Gregorio Aglipat in hand-to-hand combat, spilling blood and chopping bodies along the 3-mile gravel road leading to the forested hill town.
One of the best places for snorkeling and kayaking from sunup top sundown is Quezon Island in the locally popular Hundred Islands of Pangasinan.
The place is near the Lingayen Gulf where US Gen. Douglas MacArthur and his Allied Liberation Troops landed on Jan. 9, 1945 against Japan's Imperial Forces then occupying the Philippines.
While the group has been historically dubbed the Hundred islands, it has in fact 124 at low tide and 123 at high tide.
Superstition suggests that first-timers on a boat ride to the islands will be safe if they kiss the stone statue of Princess Urduja, the legendary princess of Pangasinan at the Hundred islands National Park.
Farther southwest of the Hundred islands is Nagsasa Cove, home to the Aeta -- sometimes spelled out Ayta -- aborigines of this country discovered for Europe by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.
The Aetas have been relocated there after the bloody eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 after more than 600 years of slumber.
From the cove, where one may share a meal with the hospitable Aeta community, one can have a side trip to the Camnara island, a white sandbar only seven minutes off Pundaquit shores.
The area is not far from what used to be called Subic Naval Base, the erstwhile drydock facility of the giant US Seventh Fleet.
There are also the Calaguas Islands in Camarines Norte in the palm-dotted Bicol Region northeast of the national capital of Manila.
The group's main island is called Tinaga, which has the longest white sand beach called the Halabang Baybay -- literally long sand zone or long beach.
Tourists who have been there, accessible by bus from Manila to the provincial capital of Daet and then a jeep to Calaguas, say there is a platform of orange clay colored rocks which makes the water cascade on their surfaces.
In the central Philippine province of Cebu, tourists can have Bantayan island for paradise in Southeast Asia.
At D'Jungle for dinner, one can have a taste, at very affordable prices, more than 50 dishes in their buffet spread.
The buffet includes a sumptuous variety of seafoods, meat slices and greens cooked in different mouth-watering styles.
For culture vultures, the town has old structures that have remained standing in the sun and moon despite a major fire in the 1970s.
And the Bantayan Catholic Church has bas reliefs on the exterior and interior described by architects as rather intricate.
It was in Cebu province where Magellan was slain by the first native, Lapu Lapu, to defy foreign domination of the islands in 1521.
Now, if a tourist's pick is pink sand, he can proceed to Sta. Cruz island in Zamboanga City in Mindanao.
The island's distinct pink color comes from the small pink coral fragments mixed with the white sand.
There are two islands in the Santa Cruz island: the Little and the Great Island Protected Landscapes and Seascapes, with only 40 families, from the minority Samnal tribe, allowed by the government to stay in the protected area.
The tourtist can also have a side trip to Camiguin off northeastern Mindanao.
The uninhabited White island is dubbed the "Island Born of Fire" because of its eight volcanoes -- reason for a wealth of hot and cold springs.
Any visitor can have a view of the sunken graveyard as well as the volcanoes Hibok Hibok and Vulcan Daan.
The area can be reached by a flight to Cagayan de oro, devastated recently by a killer typhoon, then a van to Agora market, a bus ride to Balingoan port, a boat to Mambajao, the provincial capital and then a pump boat to White island.
Truly, as tourist-returnees exclaim, it's more fun in the Philippines. (PNA)
rsv/hbc/rsm


==Human trafficking victims rescued==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/01/20/human-trafficking-victims-rescued-201642
*Friday, January 20, 2012
:by  Bong Garcia




OPERATIVES of the Maritime Police Command have rescued 36 victims of human trafficking aboard a commercial ferry in the province of Tawi-Tawi, an official said.


Inspector Wilfredo Abellon, operations chief of the Maritime regional office, said the victims were rescued Wednesday in the town of Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi province.


Abellon said the victims were rescued aboard a commercial ferry that came from Zamboanga City and was on its way to Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia.
==Court unseats Tawi-Tawi municipal mayor==
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/04/11/court-unseats-tawi-tawi-municipal-mayor-215763
*Wednesday, April 11, 2012
:by  Bong Garcia


The vessel was on a stopover when they rescued the victims, Abellon added.


He said the victims were composed of 27 males, nine females and a minor, who come from Maguindanao, Cotabato, Bicol, and other parts of Luzon and the Visayas.
A REGIONAL trial court has unseated Nazif Ahmad B. Abdurahman as the mayor of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi province.


He said the rescued victims were immediately taken to Zamboanga City and are now in the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
The Regional Trial Court (RTC) branch 5 acting presiding judge Peter V. Eisma of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, has issued a five-page special order dated April 2, 2012 granting the motion for execution of its February 10, 2012 order that annulled and set aside Abdurahman's proclamation.


Investigation, aimed unmask the recruiter of the group who was not in the vessel when the victims were rescued, is ongoing, Abellon said.
The court declared Benzar N. Tambut as the duly elected mayor of Simunul municipality.


==Bureau of Immigration to deport 2 foreigners==
The court issued the order after Tambut, assisted by election lawyer Quirino Esguerra Jr., has protested Abdurahman's proclamation.
*Source: http://www.philstar.com/nation/article.aspx?publicationSubCategoryId=65&articleId=768147
*January 16, 2012 12:00 AM
:by Helen Flores, Rudy Santos


Tambut’s camp cited various irregularities allegedly conducted by Abdurahman or his followers and cohorts during the conduct of the automated national and local elections on May 10, 2010.


MANILA, Philippines - Two foreigners are set to be deported by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for allegedly entering the country through the “back door,” an official said yesterday.
Tambut has contested the results of six of the total 20 clustered precincts for the mayoralty position.
BI Commissioner Ricardo David Jr. said agents separately arrested Steven Nicol Herbert, an Australian, and Gul Hussain, at their residences in Zamboanga City last Dec. 20. The two men are being held at the immigration jail in Bicutan, Taguig City pending deportation proceedings.
Herbert arrived at the port of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi from Sampona, Malaysia last Oct. 1. He was able to return to the Philippines despite being blacklisted by the BI in March last year for failing to pay his visa extension fees due to financial distress.
Hussain refused to divulge how he entered the country and was not able to produce any travel papers.


==Caravan of good governance reaches Eastern Samar, Tawi Tawi==
Earlier, Abdurahman was proclaimed as the winner in the mayoralty race having garnered the highest votes casted and canvassed with a total of 2,955 votes as compared to Tambut who obtained 2,386 votes, the second highest ranking in the race of six mayoral aspirants.
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/348124/caravan-good-governance-reaches-eastern-samar-tawi-tawi
*January 15, 2012, 2:04am
:by  WENDELL C BALDERAS, Contributor


The court has annulled and set aside Aburahman's proclamation after it found out after the revision and judicial appreciation of ballots that Tambut garnered 2,329 votes while Abdurahman garnered a total of 1,933 votes or with a difference of 396 votes.


MANILA, Philippines — Continuing its efforts to promote good governance and ethical leadership among the youth in our country, Kaya Natin! Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership co-founder Grace Padaca and its champions, former Southern Leyte Governor Rosette Yñiguez Lerias and former Tamparan, Lanao del Sur Mayor Jan Disomimba, visited Eastern Samar and Tawi recently and spoke before 10,000 students from Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) — Salcedo, Maydolong & Borongan Campuses, MSU-Tawi-Tawi, Mahardika Institute of Technology (MIT), and Tawi-Tawi Regional Agricultural College (TRAC).
The court in its April 2, 2012 decision has cited public interest in granting the motion for execution filed by Tambut and Esguerra.


In her talk, Lerias made a distinction between political families and political dynasties. Lerias herself comes from a political family which is known to have brought honor and have done a lot of good for their province. Being a disaster risk reduction management expert herself, Lerias was able to rebuild their town of St. Bernard after the landslide in 2006 that killed over 1,100 people, with the help of private partners. Lerias has received awards and recognition for effective local governance and participatory governance. In her talk, she encouraged all the students in the three ESSU campuses to take an active role in nation building by educating themselves well so they will be equipped to understand what is happening in our country.
“Public interest involved is beyond doubt that warrants the execution of the decision of this court pending appeal when this court established the true and genuine expression of the will of the electorate of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, thereby establishing protestant's right to the contested office by declaring him undoubtedly the true and genuine winner…,” the court said.


Struggle of a Woman Moslem Leader
Simunul, which comprises of 15 villages, is a 4th class and one of the 11 municipalities of Tawi-Tawi.


Bae Janaree Disomimba, former mayor of Tamparan in Lanao del Sur, also shared her leadership journey as a woman Moslem leader of Tamparan, a male-dominated society.
Simunul has a population 31,962 people in 4,910 households based on the 2000 census of the National Statistics Office.


With deeply rooted values and principles and great influence from her father, Mayor Jan veered away from the traditional politics in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and chose to do what was right no matter how difficult it was. Her leadership style has proven that not all leaders in ARMM are abusive and corrupt. In all the three schools in Tawi-Tawi, Mayor Jan might have awakened every Moslem in the audience by reminding everyone that to be corrupt and selfish is un-Islamic and that what the Quran really says is that to be Islamic is to be honest and truthful.
==DENR-ARMM pursues greening program==
*Source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1521334025588
*Tuesday 10th of April 2012
:by (EOR/APB-PIA 10)


Her hometown of Tamparan has not seen a municipal hall for the many decades it has existed. But Mayor Jan believed that the municipal hall is an important symbol of governance and a sign that her administration meant business and wanted to truly serve the people. She involved all community stakeholders in the construction of Tamparan’s first municipal hall. By having the political will and the right principles, Mayor Jan was able to transform Tamparan to what it is today and brought back dignity to her people.


In the caravans, KN co-founder Grace Padaca spoke strongly on issues of mining and human trafficking.
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 10 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) is engaging in a massive region-wide reforestation under the National Greening Program (NGP).  


Padaca likened the issue of mining to a home that has been robbed. She emphasized to the students that they should not just allow people to rob them of their natural resources and leave them with nothing afterwards.
“We are vigorously pursuing the implementation of the NGP which seeks to address poverty reduction, food security, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation and adaptation,” said DENR-ARMM Secretary Kahal Kedtag during the 1st ARMM Summit on Environmental Protection held here recently.  


Dreams and Wishes
He said the DENR-ARMM is set to produce 5,296,500 seedlings for the 2011-2012 implementation of the program.


Before the forums started in the schools in Tawi-Tawi, all students were asked to write what their dreams and wishes were and what they would do if they were mayors or governors of their areas.
According to him, these seedlings will be planted in 2,500 hectares of denuded and open forestland within the region’s five provinces, namely Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.  


The students’ dreams ranged from having a complete family this Christmas to having their own laptops.
It can be recalled that DENR Secretary Ramon Paje and ARMM OIC-Governor Mujiv Hataman inked an agreement earlier this year to ensure the full implementation of the NGP in the region.  


Padaca inspired everyone to dream big and work hard to fulfill their dreams. She said that she never imagined going out of Isabela as a physically handicapped girl. Now, she has been to Tawi-Tawi and has gone to many other places in Europe and the United States.
A flagship program of President Benigno S. Aquino III, the greening program involves the growing of 1.5 billion trees in 1.5 million hectares of lands nationwide from 2011 to 2016.


The students gave impressive answers as to what they would do if they were mayors or governors. One student said that he’d strengthen the fishing industry in Tawi-Tawi to provide livelihood for the people. Another said that he will have a government that is not corrupt and give the people what is due to them.
==ARMMAA 2012 reels off==
*Source: http://www.tawitawi.net/armmaa-2012-reels-off/
*APRIL 8, 2012
:by  Bong Garcia


“Akala ko lahat ng mga politicians dito sa Pilipinas ay corrupt at sarili lang ang iniisip, but upon having a chance to know Gov. Grace, binago nya ang perspektibo ko sa pulitika. Sana lahat ng namamahala sa gobyerno at pamahalaan ay gaya ni Gov Grace at iba pang Kaya Natin champions na nasa puso ang pagiging public servant na transparent at accountable sa pagiging leader,” remarked Abdulkadil Misra, one of the participants of the forum.


The Caravan of Good Governance in Eastern Samar is in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, PLAN International and the ESSU Federated Student Council Organization, Inc. and the Caravan of Good Governance in Tawi-Tawi is in partnership with Friedrich Naumann Foundation and the Office of Governor Sahali through Mr. Nurjay Sahali.
LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — The 2012 Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Athletic Association (ARMMAA) meet kicked off Saturday with officials encouraging the athletes “to aim for the best.”


==ARMM gets P49.6-M aid for tree planting program==
The week-long athletic competition is being participated by some 6,000 athletes composed of 12 athletic delegations coming from the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Lamitan and Marawi.
*Source: http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Economy&title=ARMM-gets-P49.6-M-aid-for-tree-planting-program&id=44695
*January 09, 2012 02:51:56 PM
:by Louella D. Desiderio


Have something to report? Tell us in text, photos or videos.


THE ENVIRONMENT department is providing P49.6 million worth of financial assistance to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to implement a tree planting program in the area under the National Greening Program.
The largest athletic contingent is from the province of Tawi-Tawi.
In a statement on Monday, the department said Environment Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje had committed P49.6 million to allow the ARMM government to carry out the program in the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.


The department said an agreement was signed by Mr. Paje with ARMM Governor Mujiv S. Hataman to reforest 2,500 hectares of denuded forest land in the area under the program.
“Aim high and aim for the best,” Armm officer-in-charge Governor Mujiv Hataman told the athletes.


Mr. Paje said the partnership is in line with the instruction of President Benigno S.C. Aquino III to assist in the management of the region's natural resources.
Hataman encouraged the athletes to set a goal not just in participating in the 2012 ARMMAA but to be able to reach to the Palarong Pambansa and possibly in the Olympics.


"This collaboration sets a critical milestone in ecological governance for the region and bodes well for addressing the social and economic challenges which the region undoubtedly faces," he said.
Hataman also enjoined them to be instruments of peace as this year’s sports competition is themed: “Bridging Peace, Unity and Development through Sports.”


In February last year, Executive Order No. 26 was issued which created the National Greening Program.
“Let sportsmanship and discipline be the order of the day,” Basilan Congressman Jim Salliman, the elder brother of Hataman, told the athletes.


The program which seeks to harmonize all the greening efforts in the country aims to plant 1.5 billion tree seedlings in 1.5 million hectares nationwide from last year until 2016.
Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay said the hosting of the ARMMAA 2012 gives them the opportunity to showcase the best of the city especially in the field of tourism.


Last year, some 69.37 million tree seedlings were planted on 117,688 hectares of open and denuded forest land, higher than the 100,000-hectare target.
“We may not provide you excellent facilities but we will offset it with warm hospitality,” Furigay said.


For this year, the program aims to plant tree seedlings on 200,000 hectares of land.
Lamitan City has pristine beaches and beautiful falls like the Bulingan Falls.


==USAID Provides Holistic Assistance to Remote Tawi-Tawi Islands to Sustain Long-Term Health Interventions==
Furigay has thanked Hataman and Salliman for their full support to the City Government in the hosting of ARMMAA 2012.
*Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/regions/14300-p24m-for-marine-project-to-develop-basilan-areas
*Thu, January 05, 2012
:By manilatimes.net


The holding of this year’s ARMMAA is the second time this city played hosts.


The first time Lamitan played hosts to ARMMAA was in 2005 when it was still a municipality.
Apart from being remote and difficult to reach, Turtle Islands and Mapun are the second and third poorest municipalities in Tawi-Tawi, with poverty incidences of 49.7 percent and 48.9 percent, respectively (2003 City and Municipal Level Poverty Estimates, National Statistical Coordination Board). Realizing the impact of poverty on sustaining health interventions in the long term, USAID partnered with multi-sectoral agencies to provide holistic and integrated assistance to 8,267 people in three most populated villages. Close to a thousand people were provided with preventive and promotive health services by USAID-trained health providers. Of the 120 men and women who participated in Tumpukan Na! group action sessions, 50 were given family planning services while the rest were referred for more counseling. USAID worked with the provincial government to counsel pregnant and lactating mothers, and provide kits containing assorted practical items. With health outcomes directly affected by the islands’ environmental situation and livelihood opportunities, mangrove reforestation in critical areas was held simultaneously with the medical missions to rehabilitate the aquatic habitat and provide healthier food and regular sources of income to the people. School children were fed, counseled on hygiene and family health, and given books and school paraphernalia while repairs were done on their classrooms. With the success of these comprehensive interventions, USAID is set to replicate similar health-environment-education-livelihood packages in distant islands in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to reinforce and coordinate sectoral efforts for greater impact.


==P2.4M for marine project to develop Basilan areas==
==Remote Villages Get Health Care==
*Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/regions/14300-p24m-for-marine-project-to-develop-basilan-areas
*Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/356292/remote-villages-get-health-care
*Tuesday, January 03, 2012
*April 4, 2012, 4:52pm
:By James Konstantin Galvez
:by ALI G. MACABALANG




COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Remote villages in the once scary Maguindanao province and the southernmost tips of Tawi-Tawi islands are now receiving health services and medical care which rural folks had longed for decades.
Reports about the trend-setting outreach services surfaced at the education and health summit conducted here recently.
Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., incumbent health secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), told summit participants that more than 2,000 “deprived people” of Tawi-Tawi received medical attention and health services in a week-long (March 18-25) caravan on the island towns of Sapa-Sapa and Languyan.
The “geographically disadvantaged” villagers of the two island towns received various “medical-surgical-safe motherhood outreach” services never done in one setting before, Sinolinding said in his presentation backed by statistics and photos.
“Braving the scorching heat of the sun and the staggering hours of travel by sea, we once touched hearts and brought vision and hope among more than 2,000 people in Languyan and Sapapa island towns,” said the ARMM health official cum expert ophthalmologist.


==Philippines says it is now ready to sign peace deal with Muslim rebels==
THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) launched the Siasi Mariculture Park and Aqua-Tourism project in Tara Island as part of a comprehensive strategic plan to transform the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi (BASULTA) into a progressive area.
*Source: http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20120402065814
*Monday, April 02, 2012 06:58:14 PM
:by  (Mindanao Examiner)


Atty. Asis Perez, BFAR director, said the 30-hectare mariculture park is securely located close to the middle of the crescent-shaped cove margined with pinkish white sand and pristine waters teeming with marine life.


“Tara Island is one of the eight island-municipalities in the second district of Sulu Province. The beach alone could easily rival the country’s fine beaches including the world’s favourite Boracay,” Perez said. The project showcases 40 units of fish cages, 32 of which were constructed from the P2.4 million fund provided by the BFAR and with the municipal government providing all other amenities such as the mooring system, the floating multi-purpose hall, fingerlings and service boats.
COTABATO CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Apr. 2, 2012) – The Philippines said it is ready to sign a peace agreement with Muslim rebels fighting for self-determination in the restive South. The statement came ahead of peace talks set to begin this month in Kuala Lumpur.


It would benefit a quarter of the 400 family-residents in the island alone, the BFAR chief said.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front said peace negotiations are going nowhere after Manila rejected the rebel demand for a Muslim sub-state in Mindanao similar to Malaysia, which is brokering the talks.


“The partnership forged between the BFAR and Siasi LGU is the first of its kind worth emulating. What is more significant is that it involves our Muslim brothers who had long been deprived of benefiting most from the richness that abounds their coastal waters,” he said.
“Government maintains that it is ready to sign a peace pact with the MILF in the soonest possible time. We have laid a very pragmatic proposal that will ensure real and genuine autonomy for the Bangsamoro on the table,” Marvic Leonen, chief government peace negotiators, said on Monday.


With additional counterpart funds coming from the LGU, Perez told the local officials that BFAR will initially provide 100 sets of ropes and floaters to jumpstart the farming of seaweeds in Tara Island, while local government will provide for the seaweed propagules.
He said the last round of talks with the MILF in Marc have been very difficult, with both parties engaged in hard bargaining on the substantive aspects of the negotiations.


In order to strengthen their coastal protection program, Perez said that BFAR will also provide motor engines for the same number of banca that will be provided by the LGU.
“Given the dynamic nature of the negotiations, it has to be understood that there are issues that may be hard to resolve. However, government is committed to work hard with its counterparts in the MILF to find mutually acceptable solutions and bring peace in Mindanao. Instead of trying to fuel people's apprehensions, we urge the MILF to work with government and meet our timetable for a peace agreement this year,” Leonen said.


“One unit will be given to each of the coastal Bantay Dagat volunteer group in the 28 coastal barangay of Siasi,” he said.
The MILF said it will not sign any peace deal unless the Aquino government agreed on the creation of Muslim sub-state. “We cannot backtrack on our demand because it the will of the Bangsamoro people,” said Mohagher Iqbal, the chief MILF peace negotiator.


The BFAR chief noted that ARMM and Mimaropa had consistently been the top 2 fish producing regions in the country. However, the two regions received the least of budgetary support for the past many years.
He said the MILF is unlikely to sign any peace accord anytime soon, saying, the government is not committed to forging a genuine and long and lasting solution in Mindanao.


Perez lamented the fact that many of the expensive fish caught in these areas end up being dried which reduces not only its volume but the prices of the fish as well.
The MILF said Manila has offered the five-province Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao which is composed of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao and Lanao provinces.


“A kilo of lapu-lapu in Manila is pegged at no less than P250. Here in Siasi, a kilo of dried lapu-lapu sells at only P160/kilo or even less,” he added.
“We will stick with our demand for a Muslim sub-state in Mindanao and nothing more,” Iqbal said.


He said that in the meantime that the viability of a cold storage plant is yet to be studied by the agency; a mini-ice maker will be provided by the BFAR to assist local fishermen in keeping the quality of their fresh catch.
The Aquino government has proposed the so-called “3-for-1” formula to achieve political settlement of conflict in Mindanao.  


Perez also indicated that the present administration is very serious in coming up with a comprehensive strategic plan to transform the BASULTA, which make up the Sulu Archipelago into a progressive area where the locals themselves would directly benefit from its rich resources.
Among in the proposal is a roadmap for development and socio-economic rehabilitation in the Mindanao through the creation of the Joint Coordinating Committee on Development in which the Philippines offered partnership with the MILF in identifying and implementing socio-economic projects.  


==32 persons rescued off Tawi-Tawi==
And peace accord through the creation of the Bangsamoro Commission that will be composed of representatives from the government, the MILF, and stakeholders in the Mindanao peace process and to re-craft an Organic Act for “genuine autonomy” and supervise the implementation of the peace pact.
*Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/01/02/32-persons-rescued-tawi-tawi-198412
*Monday, January 2, 2012
:By  Bong Garcia


And lastly is for the government to acknowledge the historical injustice of conflict and reconciliation wherein it is willing to officially retell the real history of Mindanao.


Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF vice chairman for political affairs, also expressed pessimism about the peace talks with the Aquino government, saying negotiations have been going on for a long time now, but nothing concrete has been achieved, except for the cease-fire agreement.
THE Philippine Navy rescued 32 people, including eight Marine soldiers, aboard a fishing boat off Tawi-Tawi, a top Navy official said Monday.


Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) commander Rear Admiral Armando Guzman said the fishing boat, F/B Kent-Ford 2, was rescued around 8 p.m. on New Year's Day.
“We are very doubtful now whether we can sign a peace deal with government under this present administration,” he said following a recent caucus with senior MILF leaders in the South.


The boat departed last Wednesday from the port of Mapun, Tawi-Tawi, en route to Zamboanga City. Its engine, however, conked out the next day, causing it to drift at sea.
“The assessment of the political officers was the recently concluded peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Malaysia was very disappointing. What the government peace panel headed by Marvic Leonen did in the last talks was never our immediate expectation which is the reason why we are very much disappointed,” Jaafar said.


Guzman said his command has dispatched two vessels backed by an aircraft upon receipt of distress call from the fishing boat to conduct search and rescue operation.
==Damaged luxury cruise towed to port in Tawi-Tawi==
*Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=793317&publicationSubCategoryId=200
* April 01, 2012 04:00 PM
:by philstar.com


A vessel of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), manned by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel, also joined the search and rescue operation, Guzman said.


He said it took them four days to locate F/B Kent-Ford 2 since the fishing boat's Global Positioning System (GPS) also malfunctioned and “the only means of contact is through radio transceiver.”
MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Ships are towing the damaged luxury cruise M/V Azamara Quest towards an island in the southern Philippine province of Tawi-Tawi, police said today.


Twenty of the 32 people aboard the boat arrived at the NFWM's Majini Pier Monday afternoon aboard a Navy vessel while the fishing boat is being towed by another Navy boat.
Philippine National Police spokesman Agrimero Cruz Jr. said that a towboat of the Philippine Coast Guard has started towing the ship anchored at Tubbataha Reef at around 9:45 a.m. and is expected to arrive at Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi at around 10:00 p.m. on Sunday. They are being escorted by a Philippine Navy ship.


F/B Kent-Ford 2, with its seven-man crew and remaining five passengers, who opted to stay aboard the fishing boat, arrived Monday night at the port of Jolo, Sulu.
He added that all the passengers were still onboard the ship.


“The passengers were all exhausted but in high spirits when they were rescued,” Guzman said.
The 30,277-tonnage cruise ship, which has 590 passengers and 411 crew members, caught fire off southern Philippines Friday night while on its way to Sandakan, Malaysia.


“The personnel aboard the rescuing vessels gave them basic provisions such as food and water. They also tendered medical attention to some passengers who have been ailing,” Guzman added.
Azamara Club Cruises, operator of Azamara Quest, said in an earlier statement that the vessel caught a fire in the engine room, but it was quickly extinguished; five of its crew members got injured, but no passenger hurt in the accident.


Because of the fire incident, the rest of the 17-day Azamara Quest's voyage was canceled.The ship started with the voyage on March 26 in Hong Kong and docked in Manila, Philippines' port on Thursday.


==[[Tawi-Tawi_Archived_News]]==
==[[Tawi-Tawi_Archived_News]]==
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Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

Endangered Species

by philstar.com


Employees of the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau inspect dead hawksbill turtles for parasites and take tissue samples, too, for mitochondrial DNA testing, during an inspection of the marine species confiscated by joint government operatives from 12 Vietnamese off Pangutaran Island in Sulu last April 22. The suspected poachers are currently detained at the provincial jail in Tawi-Tawi, having been charged for violating the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 and the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. Aside from the 87 marine turtles, also found in the Malaysian-registered fishing vessel used by the Vietnamese were five bundles of black corals and about 600 kilograms of hammerhead fish, lapu-lapu (grouper) and squid.






More charges to be filed against Vietnamese fishermen

by Bettina Faye V. Roc


THE ENVIRONMENT department is set to file additional charges on the Vietnamese nationals caught allegedly poaching marine species off Sulu last month, this time for the violation of the Wildlife Act. “This is a clear violation of international and local laws on wildlife, especially since most of the species caught are considered endangered, and they were killed or collected in the Sulu Sea Marine Ecoregion (SSME), which is a protected area,” said Environment Secretary Ramon Jesus P. Paje in a statement.

The Vietnamese fishermen were aboard a Malaysian-registered vessel when they were caught by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on April 22 off Pangutaran Island in Sulu. Upon inspection, the vessel was found to be loaded with five bundles of black corals, 87 pieces of hawksbill turtles and around 600 kilograms of hammerhead fish, lapu-lapu (grouper) and squid.

The poachers are currently detained at the Tawi-Tawi provincial jail. The BFAR had earlier filed against the men charges for violating provisions in Republic Act No. 8550, also known as the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, which prohibits the catching and taking of fish and other aquatic products by foreign fishing vessels in Philippine waters.

Meanwhile, collecting, hunting or possessing wildlife, their by-products and derivatives are violations of Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Act.

La Aunor’s new film will showcase Tawi-Tawi as tourism destination

by NT-PIO/RVC/PIA-9 ZBST


Superstar Nora Aunor is making Tawi-Tawi shine as she takes pleasure filming her new movie in the province. The Superstar and her co-stars and the film’screw have just concluded their shooting recently of Brillante Mendoza’s newfilm titled “Thy Womb”, a love drama portraying a Bajau couple’s sacrosanct relationship as husband and wife though unblessed with offspring.

The movie depicts the seafaring Bajau tribeof Tawi-Tawi, their culture and tradition and a précis that tells of a Bajao woman who is more than willing to endure personal sacrifice for the sake of hereternal love for her husband.

The controversial Cannes-film winningdirector Mendoza said in an interview that “this cultural and dramatic filmwould portray the people of Mindanao, especially, Tawi-Tawi and that they [thepeople of Mindanao] are [also] capable of loving.”

“That in spite of the troubles and conflictsevident in Mindanao, there are people here, who are capable of loving and peaceful as well,” Mendoza stressed.

He also said that the film would somehowconvey to the world the tourism potentials of Tawi-Tawi saying that this southern frontier of the country has peace and serenity with beautiful sitesworth visiting.

Mendoza also said that they have chosenTawi-Tawi as a location shooting because it delivers the scenario and the characters needed for the film. For their part, Aunor and Roco, expressedtheir appreciation of Tawi-Tawi’s hospitality and said that they are captivated by the beauty of this southern province.

Ms. Aunor plays the lead character as amidwife named Salehah and is co-starred by Bembol Roco as Bangas-an, Lovi Poeand Mercedes Cabral with support cast from the locals of Tawi-Tawi.

Aunor flew in to Tawi-Tawi last April 14, toshoot the indie film, her first since returning from a hiatus in the UnitedStates. Shooting took place in at least 3 locations: the island-towns ofBongao, Sitangkai and Taganak. She left the province last April 28.

Meanwhile, Provincial Information OfficerNash Tahang said that the local government officials and the locals ofTawi-Tawi was elated and honored and was grateful to the film-makers forchoosing the province to be the location for the Superstar’s new film.

Vice Governor Ruby Sahali said that thismovie will eventually help pump prime the exposure of the province’s tourism potentials not only for the local visitors influx, but more so, that of theforeigners.

“These are the days Tawi-Tawi shines with thesuperstar,” she said. Moreover, Provincial Secretary Nurjay Sahali made thesame observation, saying that the film will help boost the tourism aspects ofthe beautiful and peaceful province, as most of the location shootings weretaken in Tawi-Tawi.

Thespians in Tawi-Tawi

by tawitawi.net


ACCLAIMED actor Bembol Roco and the great Nora Aunor just got back from a tedious but totally reinvigorating work assignment in the far-flung province of Tawi-Tawi in Mindanao. The multiawarded actors immersed themselves for more than two weeks with the locals of the towns of Bongao and Sitangkai, where most of the scenes of the latest Brillante Mendoza film Thy Womb were shot.

We met up with both Roco and Aunor in Cebu, the final leg of their nonstop shoot for this much talked-about movie, where both recounted their unforgettable experiences in Tawi Tawi.

“Breathtaking” was how Roco described the Tawi-Tawi that he saw and experienced. “You feel like you are in a totally different world and a different time frame. The water is always clear and the marine life does not only sustain the day-to-day existence of the people but it also makes you realize that God is so generous with His many natural gifts to us.”

Roco added that although life there may appear difficult because much is stripped to the essentials, it’s the simplicity that will capture the heart of a visitor like him. “Imagine taking a pump boat to the islands for countless hours, just gazing at the vastness of the ocean and the sky. Imagine living in stilt houses with no real toilets. Imagine being with people who, despite their seeming poverty, can flash a smile like they are the happiest creatures on earth. That was the Tawi-Tawi that has pierced my heart.”

For her part, Aunor, unquestionably the country’s One and Only Superstar, she admitted that she shed all inhibitions and doubt, plunging into her character right away the moment she stepped on the island.

“Isa akong midwife dito na nagbabangka at dumadayo sa iba’t ibang lugar para magpaanak pero hindi ako mabiyayaan ng sarili kong anak [I play a midwife who travels from one place to another to deliver babies, but I can’t have my own child],” she volunteered. “Pagdating na pagdating namin ni Kuya Bembs [her nickname for Roco], na-in love agad kami sa lugar at sa mga tao. Mababait ang mga kababayan natin sa Tawi-Tawi. Simple lang sila pero masaya, kahit mahirap ang buhay. Ibang-iba sa inire-report ng media na magulo at delikado doon. Peaceful sila at masisipag [The moment Bembol and I arrived, we immediately fell in love with the place and its people. The people of Tawi-Tawi are nice. They are simple and happy even if life seems difficult. It’s totally different from what the media sometimes report. They are peace-loving and industrious people],” she stressed.

She added, “S’yempre may mga security na naka-assign sa amin, hindi dahil sa delikado ang lugar kundi para maging smooth ang shooting namin doon. Pero wala kaming naging problema. Nag-cooperate lahat kaya naging maayos at masaya lahat. [We were provided with security not because it was a dangerous place but because we wanted the shoot to be smooth. Everyone was cooperative.]”

Aunor shared that she had to learn to weave the native banig and constantly practice paddling a banca. “Gusto kasi ni direk Brillante na makatotohanan lahat kaya kelangan akong maging gamay sa mga gawain nila doon. Tingnan mo nga at sunog na sunog ako dahil namamangka ako kahit matirik ang araw. [Our director wants everything to be realistic so I had to do what they do there. Look at me, my skin is so sun-burnt because I had to paddle a banca even when the sun was scorching hot].”

Brillante Mendoza, who holds the distinction of being the only Filipino to have won a Cannes International Film Festival best director plum, only has good words for his two main actors.

“Nora and Bembol are who they are because they are both true artists. You see, I do not allow my actors to have scripts on the set. They know and understand their respective roles after every briefing and take everything to heart. They are thespians and I am so blessed having both of them in this film. They certainly make my work easier and more fulfilling,” Mendoza enthused.

Altruistic to the core, Mendoza and his team headed by production head Larry Castillo and cinematographer Odyssey Flores flew to Tawi-Tawi hoping for the best and he told us that his team got more than what they expected. “The weather was perfect, the people were very cooperative, the local government of Tawi-Tawi was all out in its support to our vision for the project. The shoot went very, very well and I am simply grateful.”

Now that the principal photography of the film is finished, Mendoza and his team will start the difficult phase of post-production with big smiles on their faces, knowing that this film will bring them far and do the country proud in the coming months.

Meanwhile, Nora Aunor and Bembol Roco will pursue their other acting assignments but this experience in Tawi-Tawi will surely remain in their hearts for a very long time.

Scuba diving training enhances MSU-Tawi-Tawi students’ skills

by (PNA)

FPV/FMS/ssc


ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 7 (PNA) -– The Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO), in cooperation with the Tawi-Tawi Divers Club (TDC), has conducted a two-month introductory course in scuba diving for selected students of Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences.

The training is relevant because Tawi Tawi is part of the coral triangle in Southeast Asian region, and there are more interesting coastal fishery resources and pristine beaches to explore in the province , even better than those in other places within the country and around the world.

TDC President Engr. Rosendo R. Reyes said the free training was participated in by at least 20 people, of which, 15 are students of MSU-TCTO and members of the Marine Bio & Environmental Sciences Students’ Association (MABESSA).

Reyes said this project with the MSU-TCTO was initiated as part of the club’s social responsibility “to draw strategic partnership with the academic institution like the MSU-TCTO that offers courses in marine biology and fisheries and environmental sciences.”

He pointed out that TDC provides such training to students so that “they will utilize their skills, exposures and experiences especially in the conduct of their academic research in marine and environmental sciences.”

He added that conducting under water research studies require students to be scuba divers.

He said two dive masters-- Prof. Ramon Tangon and Rasul Sabal, assisted him in the training that ended March 31.

He emphasized that TDC would continue to participate on collaborative engagement with concerned agencies and NGOs in projects related to marine life.

These project will include coral assessment, establishment and management of fish sanctuary, construction of artificial reef, Crown-of Thorns clean-up, coastal clean-up like scubasurero (garbage collector of the sea) and other projects and programs of similar considerations, especially those involving environmental concerns.

Meanwhile, MSU-TCTO Chancellor Atty. Lorenzo R. Reyes underscored the significance of scuba diving to the academic program of the university.

He said he plans to make scuba diving as one subject area of study in the academic curriculum of the Department of Marine & Environmental Science of the university.

“I have always encouraged the college of fisheries and environmental science to undertake more research studies in fisheries and marine biology as well as in environmental sciences because MSU-TCTO is a vocational institution by its mandates,’ he stressed.

He shared his vision to make MSU-TCTO a center of excellence in fisheries and oceanographic studies, and to ensure that the graduates will be relevant and globally competitive.

He also pointed out that Tawi-Tawi is considered a haven for research studies and that he expect that the college should be able to come up with more vital research proposals in which he assured that it would be his responsibility to find possible source of funding for any research proposal submitted.

Moreover, Director for Coastal Resource Management Prof. Felimon Romero said that, “there’s a need to strengthen our environment and ecological system as this is our only potential source of eco-tourism for foreign investment in Tawi-Tawi.”

“We are part of coral triangle in Southeast Asian region, and that what we have here in Tawi-Tawi is that we can find more interesting coastal fishery resources and pristine beaches to explore that we are proud to say is much better than those in other places within the country, including other places abroad,” he added.,

Meanwhile, the Office of MSU-SCTO Chancellor has donated to the club some ten pieces of junked steel cabinets that will be used as artificial reef in support to the national coral reef restoration program of government.

As part of their commitment to the TDC, the trainees will install the cabinets to the seas near Mountain View Resort Beach at Barangay Pasiagan in Bongao.

TDC said the areas that are devastated by dynamite and cyanide fishing are the targets of coral reef restoration.

MABESSA President Yunadzmal Ong, moreover, expressed his gratitude to the TDC President and MSU Chancellor for making the scuba training possible that helps in their quest for scientific exploration of the seas and the oceans of Tawi-Tawi.

Introducing Tawi-Tawi, Sulu folk to healthcare

by Edwin O. Fernandez


Health services know no boundaries Workers brought together by a Department of Health (DOH) campaign to bring medical services to the people of Tawi-Tawi sweltered in 36-degree-Celsius heat, endured hours of sea travel, ignored threats of kidnapping to attend to people who have not seen a doctor all their lives.

The campaign had been successful last year, bringing medical and dental care to the people of Mapun and Turtle Islands in Tawi-Tawi, two of the remotest places in the country.

Last month, the health caravan spent five days bringing services to people in the towns of Languyan and Sapa-Sapa where diseases have been left untreated and ailments are often blamed on supernatural causes.

Never mind if the campaign name smacks of politicking (“Alay ni RG-Kasama Mo Si Sec,” which translates to Alay ni Regional Governor-Kasama Mo Si Secretary), it was able to bring surgeries, dental work and lessons on safe motherhood and reproduction to areas where doctors have never been known to exist.

The campaign also brought essential information on health, maternal and child care, nutrition, reproduction and birth spacing.

It was merged with the DOH’s “Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan” (Journey to Health) that the department has been bringing to remote communities with barely any access to health clinics much less hospitals.

The blind can see

“Ignorance in health is not bliss, it kills,” said Kadil Sinolinding Jr., health secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

While using what sounds like a self-serving theme “Sa Biyaheng Kalusugan Kasama Mo Si Sec” obviously referring to Sinolinding, the medical mission was able to bring together health workers and volunteers who helped the people of Tawi-Tawi realize that healthcare is not a guessing game.

As a result, more than 1,000 people received free cataract and other eye surgeries in Languyan town alone. At least 25 people who have been rendered blind by cataracts were able to see clearly again. Some of the people had minor surgeries and received free dental and medical services.

From Languyan, the DOH-ARMM continued the campaign to Sapa-Sapa, reached by boat after a six-hour journey, where free cataract and other eye surgeries were given to the poor, restoring eyesight to many who had gone blind.

Bilateral tubal ligation and other minor surgeries were also provided as part of the project.

Risky mission

Sapa-Sapa municipality is one of the island towns of Tawi-Tawi, where people never had access to health services because of two things—they live too far from the nearest clinic and it was too dangerous for them to travel.

In the last three years, at least four health workers in Tawi-Tawi and Sulu have either been kidnapped or harmed by criminal elements.

At the latest medical mission, villagers from far-flung island communities took pump boats to reach the town center to avail themselves of health-care services—antenatal care, child healthcare, vitamin A supplements and immunization.

The campaign also seized the opportunity to provide information on healthcare through exhibits, classes, songs, dances and story-telling sessions that were found entertaining by the people whose communities are not reached by cable TV or regular radio broadcasts.

DOH launched its Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan simultaneously with the medical mission in Sapa-Sapa.

“I cannot allow myself to just sit and wait when I know that there are a lot of blind people out there who survive in darkness and misery, and mothers and children die needlessly just because they are poor,” said Sinolinding.

“Poverty is already social injustice, making people hopeless. Inaction aggravates their condition,” he said. Sinolinding is one of two members of the ARMM Cabinet who had been retained by acting ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman when he assumed office in December 2011.

Sinolinding thanked the people who shared their time and effort for the medical mission.

Before the Tawi-Tawi mission, ARMM health workers had brought similar services to Sumisip, Basilan, with more than 200 people receiving cataract and glaucoma surgeries. Surgeries were held at Sumisip District Hospital which, after 13 years of being nonfunctional, was revived by Sinolinding in September last year.

Sinolinding said he was so elated seeing people very grateful for the services.

“From the cries of hopelessness and injustices to jubilation and enlightenment, and from eyes and hearts laden with apathy and ignorance to eyes filled with hope and understanding—such could be the transformation now in the people of ARMM,” Sinolinding said.

“Taken for granted, our mothers and children were dying unnecessarily because of poor health service deliveries,” he added.

The Journey to Health success has led to the commitment of DOH-ARMM to bring its health caravan to the farthest islands of Muslim Mindanao, to include the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Sulu.

“No one can imagine how satisfied these poor people were after the mission,” Sinolinding, an eye doctor, said.

Screen queens gear up for their ‘vanishing acts’

by Rito P. Asilo


Tinseltown’s acting icons remain at the top of their game by choosing projects that don’t just make them emerge smelling like roses at the box office, but also show off their dramatic chops, to keep their followers’ interest high. For their latest projects, top female superstars, Vilma Santos and Nora Aunor, are backed up by directors whose filmmaking acumen can guarantee that their projects aren’t the usual stuff and fluff. For the Star for All Seasons, risk-taking is key to her sustained popularity. Vilma told us she didn’t want to be seen in hackneyed variations of the same themes and stories—which explains why she decided to do Chito Roño’s chiller, “The Healing,” as a follow-up to Olivia Lamasan’s 2009 dramedy blockbuster, “In My Life.” Moreover, it’s been almost 40 years since Vilma last dabbled in the horror genre via “Kamay na Gumagapang” and “Anak ng Aswang”—when she was only 19 years old! We’re also looking forward to Nora Aunor’s comeback movie, “Thy Womb”—which wrapped up its Tawi-Tawi and Cebu shoots last week—because Cannes-winning director, Brillante Mendoza, is helming it. Last seen on the big screen in the US-shot 2006 indies, “Ingrata” and “Care Home,” the Superstar portrays a Badjao midwife in the film that also stars Bembol Roco and Lovi Poe. Campy turn American screen queens are also gearing up for their thespic “vanishing acts”: After Julia Roberts’ campy turn as Snow White’s power-grabbing, evil-queen nemesis in Tarsem Singh’s “Mirror, Mirror,” it’s Angelina Jolie’s turn to make life a living hell for another fairy-tale princess.

In Robert Stromberg’s “Maleficent,” Brad Pitt’s better half is cast as the proud and vengeful sorceress who takes offense at not being invited to the christening of Princess Aurora aka Sleeping Beauty (Elle Fanning), the only daughter of King Stefan (Jude Law). If Jolie portrays Maleficent the way she played Evelyn Salt, whoever’s portraying Aurora’s knight in shining armor has his work cut out for him! For her part, Roberts is relying on the jump from stage to screen of Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer-winning dark comedy, “August: Osage County,” and Larry Kramer’s Tony-winning autobiographical HIV/AIDS drama, “The Normal Heart,” to boost her acting cachet. In Ryan Murphy’s (“Glee”) screen adaptation of the 1980s-set “The Normal Heart,” Julia plays wheelchair-bound Dr. Emma Brookner, who helps gay activist, Ned Weeks (Mark Ruffalo), raise awareness about the deadly (then unidentified) viral disease that was killing gay men. Level of difficulty The level of difficulty gets higher for Julia in “August,” where she portrays Barbara Fordham, the 46-year-old eldest daughter of Beverly and Violet Weston who’s forced to come home when her alcoholic father goes missing. She hasn’t visited her parents in years, because she doesn’t get along well with her shrewd, prescription drug-addicted mother. The film’s emotionally charged scenes present exciting dramatic possibilities for cinema’s Pretty Woman, not the least of which is the fact that her combative mother is played by—Meryl Streep! And, Catherine Zeta-Jones revisits her musical-theater roots via Adam Shankman’s big-screen version of the stage musical, “Rock of Ages,” where she will perform Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot.” The anticipated movie musical has a bigger come-on, however: Tom Cruise’s latest (and very bold) attempt at reinvention. In its motion-picture soundtrack, Cruise will be rendering Guns N’ Roses’ “Paradise City” and Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me”—not the easiest tunes to sing, that’s for sure. If that isn’t gutsy, we don’t know what is!

Tawi-Tawi enchants Nora Aunor yet again

by Bayani San Diego Jr.


It wasn’t Nora Aunor’s first time in Tawi-Tawi. Still she felt seduced by the island’s pristine beauty. The singer-actress, known as the country’s Superstar, recalled that she briefly visited the island on the country’s southernmost tip years ago. “Para sa kampanya ni Erap (former President Joseph Estrada),” she recounted. “Pero sandali lang. Hindi ako nagtagal.” For her latest Tawi-Tawi “adventure,” she totally “immersed” herself, staying over two weeks, from April 14 to 30, for the shooting of Brillante Mendoza’s latest work, “Thy Womb.” Mendoza won best director for “Kinatay” at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival in 2009. “Thy Womb” is scheduled to premiere at an A-list international film fest. Little dialogue The indie film marks her big-screen comeback after eight years, Aunor said. She had appeared in indie productions like Suzette Ranillo’s “Care Home” and Joey Gonzales’ “Ingrata” (both in 2006) during her stay in the United States. But “Thy Womb” is her biggest film since Maryo J. de los Reyes’ “Naglalayag” in 2004. “Na-miss ko ang pag-arte,” she told Inquirer Entertainment in an interview held upon her return to Manila on May 1.

She said that she hit it off with Mendoza, who shares her artistic principles. “Magaling talaga si Direk Brillante. Ang gusto niya natural ang acting. Wala masyadong dialogue pero taos-puso.” In the movie, she plays a midwife who serves the seafaring Badjao and other indigenous tribes in Tawi-Tawi. “Bilang kumadrona, ako lang ang nagpapaanak sa mga nanay doon. For the first two days, nag-aral kami na mag-sagwan at mag-habi ng banig,” she recounted. Mindanao reality The experience opened her eyes to both the promising and disheartening realities in that part of Mindanao. “Mababait ang mga tao doon. Talagang inalagaan kami. Nakita ko kung gaano kaganda ang Tawi-Tawi. Peaceful naman. Naging biktima lang sila ng mga maling balita,” she explained. “Sabi nila may mga planong gawin itong tourist destination.” Their hosts, Gov. Sadikul Sahali and his wife Juana and daughter Vice Gov. Ruby Sahali and son Nurjay Sahali, assisted by the Philippine Marines and the Philippine National Police, made sure that the entire cast and crew remained safe during their stay, Aunor said. She plans to return their kindness by asking friends from the industry to help the people in the small villages where they shot the film—specifically, Sitangkai, known as the “Venice of the Philippines.” “Nag-shooting kami doon sa mga bahay na nakatayo sa dagat,” she said. “Gusto ko sanang mabigyan sila ng isang health center, sa tulong ng mga kaibigan natin dito sa Maynila.” Playing a midwife, she saw with her own eyes the residents’ most pressing needs. “Kailangan nila ng gamot. ’Pag may manganganak, kailangan pang mag-bangka para makapunta sa ospital,” she said. As expected, she and her co-stars — Bembol Roco, Lovi Poe and Mercedes Cabral—were mobbed by the residents. “Natutuwa sila na nabisita namin sila at gumawa kami ng isang pelikula tungkol sa buhay nila … para naman malaman ng Pilipinas at ng buong mundo ang tunay nilang kalagayan,” she pointed out. Aunor said she and her co-stars had no qualms about roughing it in the southern province. “Walang pa-istaran. Pantay-pantay kaming lahat. Parang kaming magkakapatid sa set. Sama-sama sa hirap at ginhawa,” she said. “Nakisama pati ang panahon. Kung kailangan sa shoot ang ulan, umulan. Pag kailangan maaraw, umaraw!” She remembered traveling by boat for almost 14 hours to reach one location, Turtle Islands. “Doon na kami natulog sa bangka,” she said. Down-to-earth Poe said that the Superstar took pains not to intimidate her co-workers. Cabral agreed: “She’s down-to-earth. Motherly. I was in my dressing room once, fixing my stuff, and someone knocked.”

When Cabral opened the door, she saw the Superstar holding a bowl of noodle soup. “She gave it to me,” Cabral said. “I was really touched. She made me realize that not all superstars are air-headed snobs. It’s a shame that other so-called stars, some who are not even as big as her, have lousy attitude.” Aunor said that she enjoyed working with her castmates. “Sabi ko kay Mercedes: Ang dami ko nang anak-anakan. Magagaling na artista sina Mercedes at Lovi. At mababait.” Although far from Manila, word on the campaign to declare her a National Artist had reached her. “Natutuwa ako na isa ako sa mga napili. Pero marami pang mas karapat-dapat na parangalan sa ating industriya,” she remarked. “Kung sakaling ibigay sa akin, isa itong malaking karangalan at magpapasalamat ako. Pero kung hindi, matatanggap ko rin.” Aunor is proud that Filipino filmmakers are making headway abroad. “It’s about time,” she said. “Dapat nga matagal na ’yan. Sana nga magkaisa na tayo at imbes na harangan ay tulungan natin ang isa’t isa na mapansin ang ating mga pelikula sa labas ng Pilipinas.” Aunor will celebrate her 59th birthday on May 21 in the US. She is set to leave for Boston on May 19 for her throat surgery on May 23. “Sana nga maging okay na ang boses ko,” she said.

Scuba Diving training enhances MSU-Tawi-Tawi students’ skills in marine, environmental science

by Rene V. Carbayas


ISABELA CITY, Basilan, May 3 (PIA) – The Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO) in cooperation with the Tawi-Tawi Divers Club (TDC) has successfully conducted a two-month introductory course to scuba diving to selected students of Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences.

The free training that culminated last March 31 was participated by at least 20 people, of which, 15 are students of MSU-TCTO and members of the Marine Bio & Environmental Sciences Students’ Association (MABESSA).

TDC President Engr. Rosendo R. Reyes said that this project with the MSU-TCTO was initiated as part of the club’s social responsibility “to draw strategic partnership with the academic institution like the MSU-TCTO that offers courses in marine biology and fisheries and environmental sciences.”

Reyes pointed out that TDC provides such training to students so that “they will utilize their skills, exposures and experiences especially in the conduct of their academic research in marine and environmental sciences.” He added that conducting under water research studies require students to be scuba divers.

He said that two Dive Masters, Prof. Ramon Tangon and Rasul Sabal were assisting him in the training. He emphasized that TDC would continue to participate on collaborative engagement with concerned agencies and NGOs in projects related to coral assessment, establishment and management of fish sanctuary, construction of artificial reef, Crown-of Thorns Clean-up, coastal clean-up like scubasurero (garbage collector of the sea) and other projects and programs of similar considerations, especially those involving environmental concerns.

Meanwhile, MSU-TCTO Chancellor Atty. Lorenzo R. Reyes, in his message underscored the significance of scuba diving to the academic program of the university. He said that he is planning to make scuba diving as one subject area of study in the academic curriculum of the Department of Marine & Environmental Science of the university.

“I have always encouraged the college of fisheries and environmental science to undertake more research studies in fisheries and marine biology as well as in environmental sciences because MSU-TCTO is a vocational institution by its mandates, he stressed.

He shared his vision to make MSU-TCTO a center of excellence on fisheries and oceanographic studies and to ensure that the graduates will be relevant and globally competitive. He pointed out, further, that Tawi-Tawi is considered a haven for research studies and that he wishes to expect also that the college should be able to come up with more vital research proposals in which he assured that it would be his responsibility to find possible source of funding for any research proposal submitted.

Moreover, Director for Coastal Resource Management Prof. Felimon Romero said that “there’s a need to strengthen our environment and ecological system as this is our only potential source of eco-tourism for foreign investment in Tawi-Tawi.”

“We are part of coral triangle in Southeast Asian region, and that what we have here in Tawi-Tawi is that we can find more interesting coastal fishery resources and pristine beaches to explore that we are proud to say is much better than those in other places within the country, including other places abroad,” he added.,

Meanwhile, the Office of MSU-SCTO Chancellor has donated to the club about ten pieces of junked steel cabinets that will be used as artificial reef in support to the national coral reef restoration program of government. As part of their commitment to the TDC, the trainees will install the cabinets to the seas near Mountain View Resort Beach at Barangay Pasiagan in Bongao.

TDC said the areas that are devastated by dynamite and cyanide fishing are the targets of coral reef restoration.

MABESSA President Yunadzmal Ong, moreover, expressed his gratitude to the TDC President and MSU Chancellor for making the scuba training possible that helps in their quest for scientific exploration of the seas and the oceans of Tawi-Tawi.

Among the successful trainees include the 15 students from the MSU-TCTO, namely: Adzmil Ledinil, Aharul, Almyra Samimi, Arthur Attuh, Delmar Asanol, Ibkar Salip Marijan, Joemary Alpha, Kara Habibon, Shaima Abdul, Sherelyn Abdul, Willy Rafales, Yunadzmal N. Ong, Maria Mita Fe Beringuel, Mira Luna Lagao and Nuradzmar Sali; the three personnel from Bongao Water District—Rommel Nunal, Jose Baldevino and Dante Delfinado; and the PMAer, ILt. Charles Dennis Tan from the Philippine Marines. (MSU-TCTO/PIA-9 ZBST)

Oslob, Cebu whale shark in indie film

by tawitawi.net


CEBU CITY – Oslob’s whale sharks will become even more famous.

The sharks will play a “cameo role” in director Brillante Mendoza’s independent film, which he said he plans to submit as an entry in the Cannes Film Festival in France.

The film is about a couple from Tawi-Tawi in Mindanao who have been trying to conceive, but were not blessed with a child.

It stars Nora Aunor and Bembol Roco.

One of the few scenes that will be shot in Cebu will feature Oslob town and the sharks that have gained popularity worldwide.

The full feature movie “Thy Womb” is not a movie about the whale sharks, the director said, “but they will appear in a side scene.”

“Parang isa na rin itong paraan para ma-showcase natin ang ating culture, and the things we are proud of, like the whale sharks of Oslob,” Mendoza said in an interview aired over radio dyAB on Sunday.

He said that 95 percent of the film was shot in Tawi-Tawi, and they plan to start filming in Oslob soon.

In a phone interview, Oslob Mayor Ronald Guaren said he has not heard from Brillantes yet, but he is open to having the sharks and his town featured in a film if this will benefit them.

He said there are no guidelines yet in having the sharks appear in advertisements or movies. For now, what the Municipal Government allows is filming for research work and documentation of the sharks.

“We’ll see what the director’s plans and intentions are. If it will be beneficial to the town in terms of promoting tourism and care for the sharks, of course, we will allow them to come here and shoot,” Guaren told Sun.Star Cebu.

Brillante is a multi-awarded director whose works have been recognized here and abroad. He won the award for Best Director for “Kinatay” at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival. His film “Lola” also won the award for Best Film at the 6th Dubai International Film Festival.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Central Visayas has initiated efforts to promote environment conservation education to host communities of eco-tourism projects.

The agency will hold an information caravan from Argao to the towns in the southern tip of Cebu, DOT-Central Visayas Director Rowena Montecillo said.

She told Sun.Star Cebu these areas are part of the route of the whale shark.

Montecillo was referring to the whale sharks (Rhyncodon typus) that have become the main tourist attraction of Barangay Tan-awan in Oslob town.

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists whale sharks as “vulnerable” due to the threats they face such as hunting and their dwindling population.

Montecillo said the tourism agency has tapped the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in educating the community about whale sharks and perhaps turtles too.

The participants who will be required to attend trainings are the boatmen and other members of the affected community.

Montecillo said that with this effort on environmental management education, the School of the SEA (Sea and Earth Advocates) resources can be tapped.

The School of the SEA managed by the Law of Nature Foundation headed by environmental lawyer and Ramon Magsaysay laureate Antonio Oposa Jr. was re-launched a few years after its infrastructure was destroyed by Typhoon Frank.

The school promotes education, engineering and enforcement in promoting the implementation of environmental laws and policies through environment-friendly practices such as waste segregation and water conservation.

Montecillo had pledged to continue to support the school and at the same time bring environmental conservation awareness to Regions 6 (Western Visayas), 7 (Central Visayas) and 8 (Eastern Visayas). (LCR/BAP/Sun.Star Cebu)

Nora Aunor finishes movie shoot in Tawi-Tawi

by RJ Rosalado, ABS-CBN News Zamboanga


MANILA, Philippines – Veteran actress Nora Aunor is back in Manila after shooting several scenes in Tawi-Tawi for her comeback movie.

Aunor’s skin was relatively sunburned when she arrived at the Zamboanga airport on Sunday but the actress said it is all part of her role in the film.

In “Thy Womb,” Aunor plays a Badjao midwife working in the province.

Aunor said she is happy about her whole experience in doing the movie as she was able to learn a lot of new things like sailing and weaving using local materials.

Aunor said she was also overwhelmed with the beauty of Tawi-Tawi.

She even encouraged tourists to visit the province because contrary to what’s always written, Tawi-Tawi is not a dangerous place.

Aunor said she is happy with the warm welcome the local government of Tawi-Tawi gave her and the rest of the movie’s cast and crew.

“Thy Womb” is under the direction of Cannes-winning director Brillante Mendoza.

Charges filed against 12 Vietnamese poachers

by AL JACINTO


ZAMBOANGA CITY: Authorities have filed charges against 12 Vietnamese poachers who were arrested in Tawi-Tawi, officials said Saturday.

Officials said the Vietnamese fishermen have been charged for violating the Philippine Fisheries Code and Wildlife Resources Protection and Conservation Act, and have been detained in the provincial jail.

The poachers, who were on a Malaysian fishing vessel, were intercepted on April 22 off the island of Pangutaran. Authorities said the vessel is owned by Tuaran Marine Park SDN BHD in Sabah, Malaysia.

Recovered from the vessel were five bundles of black corals, 85 pieces of endangered hawksbill turtles, and some 600 kilos of assorted hammerhead sharks, groupers and squid.

Officials identified the Vietnamese as Truong Van Hoang, the captain; Pham Ngoc Binh, Nguyen Minh Anh Dong, Tran Hong Tho, Nguyen Thank Ninh, Nguyen Van Vung, Nguyen, Van Ba, Nguyen Thanh Ninh, Nguyen Van Tuan, Nguyen Van Hai, Tran Hing Thien and Nguyen Van Vuong.

Nora Aunor, Brillante Mendoza wrap up Tawi-Tawi shoot

by DAVID Y. SANTOS


MANILA, Philippines – “It's a wrap.”

Close to two weeks since coming to the island province of Tawi-Tawi, the country's southernmost frontier, Nora Aunor has finished shooting her latest film “Thy Womb.”

“We are gratetful to Ms Aunor, as well as those behind this movie, for choosing Tawi-Tawi as their location,” Vice-Governor Ruby Sahali told Rappler by phone. “It's a welcome breather for us amid all the bad press the province has been getting.”

The superstar herself is equally grateful for the hospitality the province has shown to her and the film's crew.

Aunor flew in to Tawi-Tawi last April 14, to shoot the indie film, her first since returning from a hiatus in the United States. Shooting took place in at least 3 locations: the island-towns of Bongao, Sitangkai and Taganak. She left the province last Saturday, April 28.

“Thy Womb” is a collaboration between Aunor and Brillante Mendoza, Cannes award-winning director, and is seen as a landmark in modern Filipino filmmaking.

Initial press releases indicate that the movie tackles the struggles of a native Badjao midwife (Aunor) and deals with “an intriguing tale of love adrift with an unsettling question [on] how to sustain a life struck between the devil of passion and the deep blue sea of tradition?”

Aside from Aunor, other stars who were in Tawi-Tawi for the location shoot included Lovi Poe, Mercedes Cabral and Bembol Roco.

Action star Raymart Santiago was also part of the film, reportedly not as among the actors, but as part of the film's crew.

“It was surreal for us to see all these movie stars coming down to Tawi-Tawi. Being the farthest to the nation's capital, we never thought they would come and shoot a film here,” Sahali said.

Security

Provincial police director Rodelio Jocson said there were no untoward incidents reported throughout the duration of the filming. Both the police and units of the Philippine Marines provided security for stars and the film crew, which numbered around 30 to 40 members, excluding local talents who were tapped for minor roles.

“Whether they are famous movie stars or ordinary tourists, as long as they coordinate with us, we will be ready to secure them,” Jocson said, pointing out the security plans are prepared each time they are informed of incoming visitors.

Two foreign birdwatchers abducted two months ago in the remote town of Panglima Sugala remain in captivity up to this time.

Tawi-Tawi is also infamously known as the jump-off point for illegal immigrants to Malaysia, due to its proximity to the State of Sabah.

Apparently, despite the security concerns, Aunor and Brillante pursued shooting in Tawi-Tawi, which reportedly will be shown in “at least 70% of the film.”

Though smaller films have been shot in Tawi-Tawi “decades ago,” this is the first time in recent years that a full-length was shot in Tawi-Tawi.

“The abduction of the foreign birdwatchers was just an isolated case. We can assure you that we are doing everything to have been freed as soon as possible,” Jocson added.

Both Sahali and Jocson noted that ironically, since the February abduction, there has been a rise on the number of tourists coming to Tawi-Tawi. A crew from the National Geograhic Channel is also reportedly doing a documentary in the province.

“If you set aside all the bad press, Tawi-Tawi, or Mindanao as a whole, is a very beautiful place,” Sahali lamented. “We don't get to be appreciated so much by majority of the Filipinos because all we hear and see are the negative news about our place.”

“We hope that with the widespread publicity of 'Thy Womb' both here and in other countries, it will also draw interest into our province, more than just the reports on violence and cases of human trafficking we have become to be known for.” - Rappler.com

Breakthrough In PHL-MILF Peace Talks Draws More Positive Comments

by EDD K. USMAN


More Moro political leaders have added their voices to the positive responses to the breakthrough on June 24 achieved by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the 15-year-old peace process.

The stalemate-breaking feat re¬fers to the "10 Decision Points" docu¬ment signed by Government of the Philippines (GPH) and MILF peace panel chairmen Dean Mario Victor F. Leonen and Mohagher Iqbal, respectively, providing a roadmap for a new form of Bangsamoro governance entity.

It could include replacing the much-maligned autonomous government composed of the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi and component cities Lamitan and Marawi.

On Friday the leadership of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) led by caretaker Gov. Mujiv Hataman lauded the two parties for their Bilateral Decision Points on Principles.

The ARMM officer-in-charge said the accord may serve to pave the way for a new political entity to be crafted by GPH and MILF that both parties will accept.

Maguindanao Gov. Esmael "Datu Toto" Mangudadatu said he will continue to strongly support the peace process under the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III.

"Filipinos, particularly Muslims in Mindanao, all have been yearning for peace. Whatever is good for the Bangsamoro is welcomed," said Mangudadatu.

On the other hand, Hataman de¬fended the autonomous region from its critics, saying "the role of the re¬formed ARMM cannot be downplayed in the government’s efforts to come up with a permanent solution to the Moro problem."

He outlined some of the autonomous government's efforts in support of the peace process.

"The ARMM and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process had initially come up with 'common points of cooperation' in support to the peace process from some mid-level meetings (on multilateral support through peace com¬munication)," he said.

Hataman assured that the autonomous region is still an important part of the solution to the Bangsamoro aspirations, not a problem as some quarters may want to believe.

He said the ARMM under his helm is presently working to strengthen the building of institutions to come up with mechanisms supporting the peace process.

On the other hand, Hataman appealed to the stakeholders and other sectors of the peace process to support the government's initiative leading to a solution of the Muslim Mindanao conflict.

Raps filed vs 11 Vietnamese poachers

by Report from RJ Rosalado, ABS-CBN News Zamboanga


MANILA, Philippines – Charges have been filed against 11 Vietnamese poachers who were arrested off Tawi-Tawi last Wednesday.

The fishermen, who were allegedly poaching endangered marine species, were charged with violating the Wildlife Act of the Philippines for possession of dead hawksbill turtles and black corals.

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Director Asis Perez said the foreigners may face a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment of up to 2 years.

Perez said a legal team from the BFAR has been sent to Tawi-Tawi to monitor the case.

Foreigners are not allowed to fish in Philippine territory, based on the Philippine Fisheries Code.






ARMM polls in May 2013 to proceed if peace pact not signed this year; Leonen says no need to amend Consti

by Carolyn O. Arguil las


KUALA LUMPUR (MindaNews/26 April) – Elections in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front will replace with a “new autonomous political entity,” will proceed as scheduled on May 13, 2013 if no peace agreement is reached by the peace panels this year. “Government is very aware in terms of timelines of our political exercises and in terms of the political realities,” government (GPH) peace panel chair Marvic Leonen told MindaNews. He said the roadmap would take on a different shape if the elections were to proceed and a new set of ARMM officials is elected. The timeline, too, may change given that the elected officials in May 2013 will, under the present law, serve a three-year term until 2016, he said. “It’s possible you’ll wait until 2016 but in 2016 what is the political reality?” he asked Declaring that the “status quo is unacceptable,” the GPH and MILF peace panels on Tuesday agreed to work for the creation of a “new autonomous political entity in place of the ARMM” as one of ten “decision points on principles” they signed that day at the Palace of the Golden Horses hotel. The present ARMM comprises the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan,Sulu and Tawi-tawi. No need Government peace panel chair Marvic Leonen, an expert on Constitutional Law, is confident there is no need to amend the 1987 Constitution to create the new entity that would replace ARMM. He said many of the proposals of the MILF are contained in the Organic Act (RA 9054) although he acknowledged that the MILF views this differently. “From the GPH point of view as of the moment, a Republic Act is more doable. But of course in so far as the Constitution is concerned, no Constitution is always permanent but the constitutional exercise requires a lot more than amending a law. And it’s always a balance between you change the rules first of the game before you mobilize the leaders. Is it exclusive? Mauna ito bago ito? Di ba pwede magsabay (Should this come first? Cannot they go together) and then later the political realities might be more favorable towards greater political exercise?” Leonen told MindaNews on Wednesday afternoon. MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal has yet to be convinced that there is no need to amend the Constitution to accommodate their demands. “The government says no need, but we hope they can demonstrate graphically how they do it without amending the Constitution. Our belief is this cannot be done,” he told MindaNews a day on Wednesday. The peace negotiations adjourned at 3:50 p.m. Tuesday, two days ahead of scheduled, after the parties signed the “GPH-MILF Decision Points on Principles as of April 2012.” The panels will resume talks next month. Congress on the other hand will resume sessions on May 7 and will go on sine die adjournment June 8 until it reopens with the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of the President on July 23. The GPH peace panel in a press conference via Skype with the Malacanang Press Corps Wednesday noon, was repeatedly asked how soon the two panels can forge an agreement and how this would impact on the May 2013 elections in the ARMM. “If there is no agreement in due time then the elections of ARMM will continue (in 2013),” as provided for by law, Leonen said. Panel member Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, explained to the press corps that the peace agreement that will be signed “will not automatically suspend the ARMM or suspend the elections. Ibig sabihin maski magkapirmahan tayo bukas, marami pang requirements yan para ma-put in place. (This means even if we sign tomorrow, there are still many requirement for that new political entity to be put in place). For instance, we will need to generate support from Congress, from both the Senate and the House, to actually pass the law that will make it possible for some kind of implementing mechanisms to take place.” Ferrer acknowledged that the longer the negotiations take, the “normal political timetable” of elections in 2013 and Presidential elections in 2016 will set in “if all these steps are not done early enough.” She said signing the agreement does not mean it will be implemented immediately because there are many legislative requirements “that’s why we’re working closely with Congress, we’re working closely with the public so that they will be able to support all the requirements that will implement elements of that agreement.”

Timetables

The filing of certificates of candidacy for all elective positions in the May 2013 polls is on October 1 to 5 this year, according to the Commission on Elections’ Resolution 9385. Congress, after reopening on July 23, goes on break from mid-October to mid-November and Christmas break from mid-December to mid-January, leaving only a limited number of session days before the official campaign period for the May 2013 polls begins. The 90-day campaign period for senatorial candidates and party list groups is from February 12 to May 11, 2013 while the 45-day campaign period for candidates for the House of Representatives, provincial, city and municipal officials as well as the ARMM is from March 29 to May 11. The MILF in February last year proposed a Bangsamoro substate, an “asymmetrical state-substate relationship, wherein powers of the central government and state government are clearly stated, aside from those powers they jointly exercise, which are also defined in this draft.” The MILF summarized it as “less than independence but more than autonomy” apparently referring to the present ARMM. Government handed its proposal on August 22 last year,18 days after President Aquino met with MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim in Japan and both agreed to fast-track the peace process so that a peace agreement can be forged within the first half of the President’s six-year term, or by June 30, 2013, so that implementation can be done immediately. The President’s term of office ends noon of June 30, 2016. The GPH proposal was a “three for one solution” which involves three components: massive economic development, a peace accord, and cultural-historical acknowledgment.” The MILF peace panel rejected the GPH proposal, prompting Leonen to say, “We reject your rejection.” The talks went on an impasse with Malaysian facilitator Tengku Dato’ Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed shuttling between the panels until they resumed talks in December. The panels have been meeting every month since. In a press conference in Cotabato City in late August last year, Leonen said amending the 1987 Constitution was not a priority of the present administration. “The proposal of government to the MILF does not contain a proposal for constitutional amendment,” he said. “Autonomy as practiced by the ARMM in the past is a failed experiment. However it does not necessarily mean we do not learn from that experience,” he said, adding the autonomy they are proposing “comes close to the idea of self governance also of the MILF.” “We read sub-state also as autonomy. We do not see sub-state as a separate republic,” Leonen said then. He also noted in August that many of the fundamental aspirations of the MILF “can be fitted into the provisions of the current Constitution.” (Carolyn O. Arguillas/MindaNews)

Dead sea turtles, corals seized in Vietnamese boat

by DAVID Y. SANTOS


MANILA, Philippines – Marine authorities in Tawi-Tawi said they have confiscated at least 50 dead sea turtles and bundles of rare corals from a Vietnamese fishing boat while docked at the port of Bongao town on Tuesday, April 24.

The seized items, which are classified as endangered species under maritime laws, were intended to be smuggled to other countries.

The Philippine Coast Guard Station in Bongao said the dead turtles were found along with 5 bundles of Black Corals inside SBF 48, a Vietnamese-registered fishing boat, during a routine inspection. The contraband was “concealed inside a refrigerated fish cargo hole located at the port side of the vessel.”

Bureua of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Director Asis Perez has confirmed that charges have been filed against the boat's 12 crew members, who were all Vietnamese, for violating laws forbidding the collection and sale of sea turtles and corals.

The cases, citing violations of Republic Acts 8550 or the Fisheries Code of the Philippines and 9147 or the Wildlife Act of the Philippines, were filed before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 5 in Bongao.

Among the different sea turtles, the Hawksbill turtle is commonly found in Tawi-Tawi and has been classified as critically endangered. Hawksbill shells are used for decorative purposes, while Hawksbill eggs and meat are cooked as a native delicacy. - Rappler.com

Airphil plane engine emits smoke before take-off, passengers ordered to disembark

by Nonong Santiago/Hader Glang


Hundreds of passengers bound for Manila, Davao, Jolo and Tawi-Tawi were stranded yesterday morning when a turbo-prop plane of the Air Philippines started emitting smoke in the middle of Runway 27 while it was about to depart for Sanga-Sanga Airport in Tawi-Tawi Province.

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Manager Celso Bayabos disclosed that the plane was given the clearance for departure at 7 a.m. when the pilots noticed smoke coming from the right engine of the propeller plane while it was already 300 meters away from Runway 27.

The pilots had to stop the plane in the middle of the runway and ordered the affected passengers to disembark the aircraft resulting to the delay of the 7:45 a.m. Philippine Airlines flight for Manila, Bayabos said.

According to Bayabos, the inbound flight of Cebu Pacific from Manila to Zamboanga was also diverted to Davao City Airport because of the obstruction.

“Ang AirPhil bound for Sanga-Sanga Airport in Tawi-Tawi was given a clearance for take off at Runway 27, but rolling for take off mga around 300 meters away na sya beginning sa runway 27, biglang hininto ng piloto ang eroplano dahil nahalata na may diperensya ang right engine ng eroplano. Ang ibang flight ng PAL for Manila ay na-hold muna. Ang inbound flight of Cebu Pacific from Manila to Zamboanga was diverted to Davao City airport,” Bayabos said.

The airport manager said they had to borrow the tow bar of the Philippine Air Force to tow the plane out of the runway. Bayabos said the airport was cleared for landing and departure at past 8 in the morning. A Norwegian, Einar Solheim said his flight was supposed to be at 7:45 a.m. but due to the incident, it was delayed.

Rossnelly said this is not good because they are supposed to go to the Norwegian Embassy to apply for a fiancée visa. Some passengers were also clearly upset with the delay.

There is no clear report yet as to what was the cause of the incident.

Air Philippines flight to Tawi-Tawi aborted due to smoke from engine

by Julie Alipala

Philippine Daily Inquirer


ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines— An Air Philippines flight to Tawi-Tawi was aborted on Monday morning as smoke emitted from the right engine of the plane, an official said. Celso Bayabos, manager of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines in Zamboanga, said the plane was about to take off when pilots noticed the smoke prompting them to park and order around 50 passengers to disembark shortly after 7:00 in the morning. “It’s not really fire, there was smoke. It’s good that pilots noticed it before they take off otherwise (it would be) another disaster,” Bayabos said. Other flights supposedly about to land at Zamboanga City international airport like Cebu Pacific from Davao city and Manila were advised to redirect their flights back. Fire marshalls and other airport personnel immediately towed the aircraft back to the taxi area to determine the actual cause of engine trouble.






P2.8-B infra projects for roads, bridges in ARMM under way

by JONATHAN L. MAYUGA / REPORTER


PUBLIC Works Secretary Rogelio Singson said several infrastructure projects in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are being implemented to boost economic development in the region. Singson said 26 projects worth around P2.8 billion are in various stages of implementation. All in all, the projects involve 117 kilometers of national roads and 132 linear meters of bridges.

“I’ve just met with President Aquino and the governors of the ARMM provinces and ARMM Governor [Mujiv] Hataman. We have reported the status of our program in ARMM,” Singson told reporters during the Communication and News Exchange (CNEX) forum at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) office in Quezon City.

The projects, he said, are part of the “Transition Investment Support Program for ARMM” being implemented by the Aquino administration. It has a total budget of P8.5 billion, P2.8 billion of which is for the repairs, rehabilitation and upgrading of major roads in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.

According to Singson, a total of three projects in Basilan involving the upgrading of 13 kilometers of road and 36.9 linear meters of bridge are now ongoing.

In Sulu he said the DPWH will implement a total of five projects that will construct 15 kilometers of road. Four of the projects have started.

Meanwhile, there are two upgrading projects involving 13 kilometers of road in Tawi-Tawi. “We are also looking at improving the water system in Tawi-Tawi,” he said.

In Lanao del Sur there are a total of eight projects. Five projects have just been awarded to private contractors while three others “will be awarded very soon.”

The projects involve the rehabilitation and upgrading of 33 kilometers of road and 75 linear meters of bridges.

“In Lanao we are also looking at upgrading the Agos River to improve and add 60 megawatts of power in Mindanao,” the DPWH revealed.

On the other hand, there are a total of eight ongoing projects in the province of Maguindanao, involving a total of 38 kilometers of roads and 20 linear meters of bridges. “We have updated [data on] the road networks in the ARMM. We now have a plan to fully restore the road networks there,” he said.

Shipper questions hold order on bark shipment

by Cebu Daily News


THE owner of the 1,000 sacks of tree bark of mangroves or tanbarks locally known as “tungog” that was seized by authorities last Thursday in Cebu City came forward to seek the release of the shipment. Erickson Kho of Sulu questioned the hold order issued by the National Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force. The foregst goods originated from Tandubas, Tawi-tawi, Mindanao. Edward Pamplona, head of the Regional Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force, told Kho that he failed to present a Certificate to Transport Forest Products to justify his claim on the shipment. Kho’s papers said he was the lone bidder who won and paid P25,520 for the 51.4 tons of tanbarks previously confiscated in Mindanao and put up for auction. But the potential market value of the bark is P14.39 million, according to Pamplona, making the shipment suspicious. A physical examination was made yesterday by the task force, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Community of Environment and Natural Resources (Cenro), Pamplona said 10 vans loaded with 280 tons of tanbarks were seized in Pier 8 Dec. 6 last year under Kho’s name. He said the tanbarks were released to Kho because no hold order was immediately issued. He said they have been “monitoring” Kho’s tanbarks shipment almost every month after reading documents that noted that the shipment was “bought through public bidding.” “Why isn’t this (tanbarks shipment) controlled?” Pamplona said. Pamplona said the National Anti-illegal Logging Task Force is meeting with the Forest Management Team to verify whether the tan barks were the subject of a public bidding. The shipment was consigned to Paul Bercina of barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City. It was seized from a motor boat by Navy personnel on Thursday. Tanbark is used in the production of paint, beads and food coloring. Correspondent Rhea Ruth V. Rosell

Magnitude 4.4 strikes off Tawi-Tawi

by http://www.abs-cbnnews.com


MANILA, Philippines – A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck off Tawi-Tawi on Thursday night, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

Phivolcs said the earthquake occurred at 6:59 p.m. Its epicenter was located 260 kilometers southeast of South Ubian town.

The earthquake was tectonic in origin. It had a depth of 491 kilometers.

No tremor was felt in any part of the province. Likewise, no damage was reported.

Phivolcs said aftershocks are not expected from the earthquake.

Authentic HK Dimsum, Half-Price!

by SOL VANZI


MANILA, Philippines — In the '60s and '70s, there was only one place outside of Chinatown for Manila dimsum lovers: Kowloon House on A. Mabini, Ermita, just off the corner of Herran (now Pedro Gil). The selection was limited: but it was the only show in town. The short dimsum menu listed siopao (asado or bola-bola), siomai, hakaw (shrimp dumpling), shark’s fin, beef balls, wugok (fried taro balls filled with chicken and mushrooms) and custard tart for dessert.

Filipino Chinese businessmen, many born in Mainland China, often flew to Hong Kong for weekend R & R, to visit girlfriends or relatives. Highlighting their trips were dimsum binges at the ground floor restaurant of the Luk Kwok Hotel in Wanchai, setting for the Richard Mason novel that inspired the movie “World of Suzie Wong.”

MANILA’S AUTHENTIC HK DIMSUM -- Today, there is no need to fly to Hong Kong to feast on a vast selection of authentic Chinese dimsum. Nor do we have to negotiate the narrow streets and no-parking areas of Binondo’s Chinatown. Families and friends now gather for traditional Sunday reunions, or weekday meals, at the Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant on Diosdado Macapagal Avenue off Roxas Boulevard.

Not only do they enjoy the food, there’s the convenience of guarded parking spaces, and the assurance of enough tables, chairs and rooms capable of handling small, medium or large gatherings.

A family of 10 would need several Sunday reunions to taste everything on the Golden Bay’s dimsum menu, which lists 81 varieties. China-trained Chef Hui Chun Yuk, better known to diners and staff as Chef Ben, prepares all the iconic dumplings (siomai, hakaw), steamed buns (chicken pao), rice (machang), congee, steamed pig knuckle and tripe (goto), among others.

TRADITION AND INNOVATION – In addition to the familiar dishes, Golden Bay’s menu also carries dozens of dimsums incorporating non-traditional ingredients, which surprisingly blend perfectly with dimsum cuisine.

Succulently reminiscent of the ocean are the uncommon Yuan Yang Dumplings, filled with fish fillet and topped with deep orange crab roe. Each dumpling, glistening in the steamer, is accented with a whole baby abalone. How many can claim to have eaten, or even seen, whole baby abalone?

The small abalone comes from the clear blue waters of the Pacific, where fishermen from Aurora province pluck them from rocks and keep them iced for delivery to Golden Bay’s purchasing officer Joseph Wong.

Joseph travels from extreme northern Luzon to the waters of Sulu Sea off Tawi-Tawi in search of marine products for the restaurant and for export. His knowledge extends beyond the harvests’ economic value; like an artist, he collaborates with Chef Ben in creating new dishes, transforming and reshaping the sea’s bounty to produce spectacular tasty delights.

MINI BEGGAR’S CHICKEN – Golden Bay has a greaseless version of the common Machang (sticky rice, sausage, pork and mushrooms). Glutinous Rice with Chicken come as rectangular, single-serving packets of sticky rice layered with a filling of chicken, mushrooms and seasonings wrapped in lotus leaf.

The heady aroma of chicken and mushrooms wafts as soon as the lotus leaf is opened. Unwrapped, the contents resemble a rice sandwich. The flavors are complex yet complementary, much like Beggar’s Chicken which was the inspiration for the dish. Imported Chinese dried lotus leaves impart smoky and earthy undertones which could not be duplicated if one used other leaves, such as banana or pandan.

I took home a few pieces, kept them in the fridge overnight. The next morning, they were unwrapped and pan-fried until toasty crisp on the outside. Heavenly!

GIGANTIC HAKAW – The regular bamboo steamer basket is hardly big enough for one order of Hakaw, which are definitely the biggest shrimp dumplings I’ve ever seen. The wrapper alone is worthy of note: shiny, transparent as cellophane, quivering in the rising steam. Inside are several pink shrimp, firm to the bite and with a texture implying they’ve never been frozen.

“It is not a secret; to ensure quality tasting food, we make sure that we have fresh quality ingredients daily,” emphasizes Chef Ben.

EXTRA-ORDINARY SIAO LONG – There is a unique system to eating Siao Long, lovingly described by experts as “soup in a dumpling,” one of the trickiest dumplings to assemble.

Carefully, the dumpling is lifted to one’s mouth, making sure the skin stays intact. A small bite near the top would then allow the diner to slurp the juices before attacking the rest of the piece, composed of minced lean pork and herbs.

As with the other Golden Bay dumplings, Siao Long dumplings are large, and take at least three bites to finish. The pork filling is so lean there is no hint of greasiness or oil either in the filling or the “soup” inside its wrapping.

STEAMED GOTO – One item very few ever cook at home is tripe; even the most avid kitchen lover loses patience with the hours required to clean, soak, stew and simmer to make this animal part edible. Cooked well, though, tripe, or goto, is beyond description.

Golden Bay’s Steamed Goto is a dish that looks deceptively simple; this impression quickly disappears with the first bite, which bathes the mouth with indescribable richness. To enjoy the dish fully, one should chew very slowly, savoring the nuances of dozens of herbs the tripe was simmered in. A few slivers of fresh green and red chili peppers enliven the meat, elevating the experience to sensuous heights.

CONGEES AND OTHERS – Like many Hong Kong residents, I got used to congee breakfast, teamed with salty stuff. At Golden Bay, my favorite congee partners are Rice Roll with Abalone Sauce and Radish Cake with XO Sauce and Crispy Dried Scallops.

The Rice Rolls are Ho-Fan, or sheets of steamed ground rice batter rolled and bathed in thick Abalone Sauce. The Radish Cake is cubed, fried, bathed in sauce and covered with a thick layer of crisp shreds of fried dried imported scallops. How’s that for decadent?

Of course, one should not miss what we call Pata Tim, listed on the menu as Steamed Pig Knuckle with Preserved Beancurd. Melt-in-the-mouth pig trotters come with bone marrow that’s to die for, stewed in cubes of preserved beancurd which we call tahure. This is a welcome twist from the ordinary stew using salted black beans or tausi; it’s complex in flavor and more authentic. Makes one want to pour it over plain steamed rice.

CHEAPER THAN FASTFOOD – The Golden Bay’s dimsum menu regular prices are lower by half compared to dishes of the same quality in five-star hotels. This summer, there is an ongoing promo that is offering 50% off the regular dimsum prices.

Bottomline? Golden Bay’s authentic Hong Kong dimsum are now discounted to only P63 to P75 per order. This is definitely cheaper than most fastfood outlets considering the larger servings and superior quality.

“We are not after profits. Our aim is authenticity, pleasant ambience and to bring Hong Kong dimsum to Manila at prices that will be more affordable for more people,” Joseph Wong says, laying out the goals of the country’s premier dimsum destination.

Roperos: Cost of living pains

by Godofredo M. Roperos

Politics also


YESTERDAY, there was a story in this daily about the city’s waterworks system being the subject of complaints by some subscribers who suddenly found their water faucets dry. They realized that the Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD) had interrupted its services to repair pipe leakage in some parts of the city.

Of course, the subscribers failed to realize that what they experienced was one of the hazards of urban living. It is the way we live today that sometimes subjects us to certain discomforts.

When I was still a kid in the countryside, I often went with my grandfather to his farm about three kilometers away from the poblacion. There was a concrete tank on a promontory overlooking his cornfield. The Tangke was the source of the piped water to the houses in the poblacion.

No wonder the water turned brackish when there was heavy rain, and we were warned not to drink the water when it was brackish. Then, when it was election season, I remember candidates promising to improve our water system so we would not get sick when the water would turn brackish.

Many years later, when I started covering the rural areas from Aparri of the Cagayan Valley in the north, to Tawi-tawi in the Muslim country of the far south, I realized how gravely had water grown to be a national problem. This despite efforts of government to initiate various projects to provide water in our communities.

But then only recently, there was the typhoid outbreak in Tuburan that was generally blamed on water. It really seemed as if the problem of providing safe water source to our rural communities would drag on across the years as a continuing problem seeking solution. This is, of course, one of the basic political issues that our government is constantly challenged, just like the problem of power and the environment.

Not very long ago, our drainage canal was unable to function effectively. Imagine my surprise one morning when we awoke with rainwater flooding our ground-floor. Since rain went on for days, water also stayed on in our ground floor, until we sought the help of the mayor who had the highway drainage canal cleared of debris and plastic waste.

Now, it is my power bill that I am concerned with. But my request to Cebeco III to change my power meter has not been heeded in the past two months. With the cost of living having gone up, even the cost of kitchen gas going up a thousand pesos a tank, we pray that our basic services suppliers would listen to our appeal for help. But then, the contemporary existence is something we can no more avoid than we can climate change. It is a reality of our present urban existence that we just have to suffer through, and coyly live with.






Tawi-Tawi peace council convened to address Sitangkai conflict

by (PNA)

LAP/FMS/mec


ZAMBOANGA CITY — Governor Hadji Sadikul Sahali has convened the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) to settle a clan war in that otherwise peaceful province in Southeestern Philippines. Sahali, who chairs the PPOC, said that his agenda in convening the council was to address the armed conflict between two groups in the Municipality of Sitangkai that has been reportedly escalating. The PPOC chairman has directed the Police Provincial Director Sr. Supt. Rodelio Jocson to provide him with regular updates on the situation in the area. Initially, Jocson confirmed that there has been armed engagement between the two warring factions, which were not identified. However, he said that the groups have agreed on a ceasefire and settlement of the conflict is under negotiation. He also said that the peace and order situation in the Province of Tawi-Tawi is manageable and there is no cause for alarm. In the same manner, Task Force 62 Commander, Navy Captain Renato Yongque also said that Tawi-Tawi in its entirety is peaceful, “that is why there is no military movement,” he stressed. Yongque also cited that the military has made changes in its approach and has adopted the so-called “Internal Peace and Security Plan or the Bayanihan,” composed of teams of selected soldiers to help work for peace in the community. Meanwhile, Sahali said that the conflict in Sitangkai between the two groups is purely a clan war, which is normally occurring in the province and elsewhere. He stressed his optimism that such conflict could be addressed soon, just like incidents of the same nature that have already occurred in the past but were given solutions. “We have peace in Tawi-Tawi, and we will protect that peace,” the governor stressed.






Rescued

by www.tawitawi.net


Two alleged victims of human trafficking were rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) while onboard a ship in Tawi-Tawi. Lieutenant Commander Algier Ricafrent, PCG spokesman, said that Coast Guard Station-Bongao received a report that two teenagers – Remelyn Ponce, 18 and Roselyn Ponce, 16 – who were reportedly victims of human trafficking, were held onboard MV TrishaKerstin-2 while en route to Bongao, Tawi Tawi on April 10.

Further investigation disclosed that the girls, who left home without the knowledge of their families, were promised jobs as domestic helpers in Malaysia. Upon learning of the incident, Ponce’s mother sought assistance from the Coast Guard.

Meanwhile, five persons were arrested in separate anti-illegal drugs operations in Quezon City since Friday afternoon. Investigators of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) identified the arrested suspects as Mary Jane Obarra, 39; Danilo Fernando Sr., 52; Theresa Cruz, 43; Gilbert Cruz, 22; and Aldrin Rivera, 22.






Promoting Tourism on Beautiful but Violent Tawi-Tawi

by Bongao.


The island’s pristine waters, prehistoric caves and mountain lookouts, it turns out, lie in the vicinity of fierce battles between rebel groups and the Philippine military.

Kidnappings are a recurring problem on Tawi-Tawi, and clan warfare, beheadings and roadside bombs are all too common on the surrounding islands in the southern Philippines. Nonetheless, Gov. Sadikul Sahali and local tourism officials are laying out the welcome mat, with a new promotional campaign aimed at trumpeting the charms of Tawi-Tawi and other nearby isles.

National tourism officials are opposed to foreigners visiting the area because of the dangers. A national tourism campaign, with the slogan “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” has been something of a sensation on the Internet, though, and users have appropriated the slogan in postings on social media sites to celebrate — and mock — what constitutes “fun” in some areas. One such image under the heading “Vacation. It’s More Fun in the Philippines” shows a kidnapped couple flanked by masked, armed men in Mindanao, the easternmost island in the Philippines.

“If you are in central and western Mindanao, you should leave immediately,” states a recent travel advisory from the Australian government to its citizens.

“If, despite our very strong advice against travel, you decide to visit central or western Mindanao,” it added, “you should put in place robust measures to ensure your personal security, seek professional security advice and take out kidnapping insurance.”

The United States, Britain and many other countries have had similar travel warnings for more than a decade.

It is no surprise, given the recent history of the area around Tawi-Tawi, that visitors are urged to arrange security along with their tour packages.

On nearby Jolo Island in February, Philippine Air Force jets dropped two bombs that killed more than a dozen rebels, including top leaders of a regional terrorist network with links to Al Qaeda, military officials said.

A nearby island, Basilan, is a stronghold for the top terrorist organization in the Philippines, Abu Sayyaf.

Just beyond Basilan, in Zamboanga Sibugay Province, Warren Richard Rodwell, a 53-year-old Australian, has been held captive since his abduction on Dec. 5. In July, a vacationing American, Gerfa Yeatts Lunsmann, her 14-year-old son and her 19-year-old Filipino nephew were kidnapped in a coastal area of Zamboanga City. All three are now free, and Ms. Lunsmann and her son have returned to the United States. No one has confirmed or denied rumors that ransoms were paid.

Despite the warnings, two European birdwatchers decided to visit Tawi-Tawi in hopes of seeing the extremely rare Sulu hornbill. They were kidnapped on Feb. 1 and remain in captivity. The violence and kidnappings in the south pose a significant problem for Philippine tourism officials.

“The Philippines remains an ideal destination, with foreign individuals and groups continuing to arrive,” the Department of Tourism said in a statement shortly after the birdwatchers were kidnapped. “So far, no cancellations have been made.”

In Bongao, on Tawi-Tawi, the desk clerk at the Beachside Inn, Nur Uddin, said by telephone that foreigners continued to arrive, although not very often. “If you come here, you should hire a security guard to make sure you are safe,” he said.

Salvacion Pescadera, a provincial tourism officer, said the kidnapping of the birdwatchers was an isolated case that, she said, occurred because they had not sought security clearance from the Tourism Department before visiting a remote area. She said that her office coordinated with the local police to provide security for visitors. “You’ll be in good hands,” she said.

DENR, tourism council seek more no-mining zones

by Kristine L. Alave

Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Tourism Council last week endorsed proposals to delineate hundreds of areas as “no-mining zones.” According to Environment Secretary Ramon Paje, the DENR has recommended that the government add nine more sites to its current list of 239 protected areas. Of those already on the list, 178 of them would be further declared as “eco-tourism zones,” to expand their protection from all extractive activities, including small-scale mining. The nine new areas to be placed under the conservation area status are: Balbalan-Balbalasang National Park in the Cordillera Region, Zambales Mountains in Regions 1 and 3, Mts. Irid Angelo and Binuang in Region 4A, Polilio Group of Islands, also in Region 4A, Mts. Iglit Baco National Park in Region 4B, Nug as Lantoy in Region 7, Mt. Nacolod in Region 8, Mt. Hilong-hilong in Region 13, and Bongao Peak in Tawi-tawi Island. On strengthening restrictions in 178 protected areas, Paje said: “The priority land use in these areas is tourism,” Paje said. “We have agreed that these areas are no-mining zones,” Paje added. ‘In conflict’ He said government is supportive of the idea since it wants to bolster the country’s tourism industry. A few months ago, the Department of Tourism launched a campaign with a tag line “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” to entice more foreign tourists to come to the country. The move to delineate more protected areas came after DENR, Silliman University and the German aid agency noted that the National Integrated Protected Areas System (Nipas) Act of 1992 has loopholes that allow some extractive and commercial activities even in protected areas. Also, the review noted that current laws on protected areas and the Mining Act of 1995 are “in conflict” when it comes to areas that are open to mining and areas with a protected status. The Nipas law also mandates Congress to declare a particular area as a protected site, which is an expensive and long process.

DPWH Sec. Sadain visits, inspects Tawi- Tawi Projects

by (PR/BFC)


BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi- (March 11, 2012) Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Secretary Emil K. Sadain personally inspected on-going projects being undertaken by the ARMM government in the island provinces over the weekends.


Sec. Sadain made his province-hopping across the southern islands including Tawi-Tawi where he, along with local executives led by Gov. Sadikul Sahali officially inspected the continuing construction of three steel bridges worth approximately P97.0 M across the Sanga-Sanga-Lapid-Lapid rapids in Bongao town, which, if completed, will spur economic growth as well as boost social transformation in the islands.

Phase I and II of the project had been substantially completed while Phase III posted accomplishment now at 98.13 percent complete while construction works still continuing and expected to be finished by September this year. Construction started last June 10, 2010.

Bridge Project Engr. Jul-Arab Kong of the DPWH-RO-9 said that by April of this year, President Benigno Aquino III is set to inaugurate and declare it open for public use.

Sec. Sadain, con-currently DPWH-President Bridge Program Director with an appointment as national Assistant Secretary, pointed out that after decades at attempting to construct the bridge projects, it is only now that we are to realize it.

The bridge project, one of the priorities of the national government would connect the Bongao capital town island to the other mainland island towns making accessible trade and commerce as well as allow the movements of people to travel by land, according to Sadain.

Sec. Sadain also led the ocular assessment and inspection of Tubig Malum (Rio Hondo) in Sitio Malum, Barangay Magsaggaw, Panglima Sugala town about 6 kilometers from the capital Barangay Bato-Bato to determine the possibility for implementation of the proposed water system as a potential source of potable water. The water system will be tapped and distributed to the entire main island of the province. The river which stretches downstream from barangay Marang-Marang (Languyan town) to Barangay Magsaggaw extending further through Barangay Kulapi towards the southern tip of Panglima Sugala municipality has sufficient volume of fresh water that could cater a growing population.

Meanwhile, Gov. Sahali briefed Sec. Sadain about the proposal to undertake the project because it is a priority need of the people. The Governor said it’s high time that a viable and sustainable water works system harnessing the Malum River will address the perennial shortage of water supply in the island province Sahali, likewise emphasized his willingness to extend his local counterpart contribution to start with the project even as he toured the ARMM official to the site despite the difficulty in traversing the rugged road conditions and trails to reach the area.

“We must do an actual assessment of the situation on the ground and know where to start,” Sadain emphasized even as he assured to work for its realization under PNoy’s administration.

Accompanied by DPWH officials and staff, Sadain took time out to conduct consultations with the seven district officials of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao, who joined him in Tawi-Tawi for the holding of the First Joint Regional and District Conference held at the DPWH district office in Bongao town, where the DPWH-ARMM Reform Agenda 2012 was laid down as a policy guidelines of the ARMM leadership by fully implementing important milestone projects using available resources and funding.

Tawi-Tawi DPWH District Engr. Bensoud Ajihil, who played host to the conference vowed to continue to support the ARMM Secretary in fulfilling the reform agenda as mandated by doing its share in developing the southern frontier of the country.

Sadain said that in support of the reform programs and good governance of ARMM, milestone targets has been set in place.

He declared that DPWH-ARMM has attained remarkable achievements in the pursuit of reform for good governance, defining its new policies and programs in the field of administrative, technical and financial matters, in just almost 3 months since he assumed.

He said, the first 100 days accomplishments, for both physical and financial inclusive of the difficulties encountered, the impact of the programs and activities as reflected in the reports as well as recommendations has been submitted to the ARMM regional Governor.

Discussions also centered on all the accomplishments of the department and the sharing of information on the problems experienced with regards to project implementation and on how to address them.

Sadain is optimistic, with help from all stakeholders to include local government units, Barangays, the NGO’s and the members of the community; ARMM will be able to take off from its slumber under the present administration of Regional Gov. Hataman.

Sadain, who assumed last January 17, 2012 as DPWH cabinet secretary promised to institute changes not only from within the system but also develop a scheme to address on the deep-seated “culture of people” working habits in bringing the desired development for the ARMM.

Earlier, Saidain said that when he was appointed as the DPWH-ARMM secretary, he noticed that it's not only the system that need to be changed but also the culture of the people working on it especially the public officials particularly those under his supervision from what he described as, “from the culture of officials down to workers in the office” and the department's programming on project implementation solely focuses on local roads which were then gradually destroyed as of this period.

On national roads with a total of 1,100 kilometers, about 70 percent of the road was done adding that with the marching orders of the President to the newly appointed ARMM governor to cover the 100 percent National paved roads by next midterm elections, due to that the 70 percent of the national roads should be given right priority under the program of DPWH-ARMM.

Sadain added he is now in the midst of undertaking the needed reforms within his department to set the right example and provide the avenue for real change to take its course for the good of the ARMM constituents.

Part of the reform effort focuses on reviewing falsified documents on the appointments of employees while upholding civil service rulings in cleansing his department on the old ways of culture to professionalize the bureaucracy, according to Sadain.

Sec. Sadain claimed that President Aquino’s choice for OIC Regional Gov. Hataman is welcome as the latter is sincere and committed in delivering reform in the ARMM Region even as he expects everyone to support.

The department also looks forward in developing some projects that would invite donor countries in the form of providing grants such as the USAID, Organization of Islamic Conference, JICA and others that extends assistance for member countries.

Much earlier, Sec. Sadain has issued a memo to the two district engineering offices which compliments the first district of Maguindanao and the second district of Lanao del Sur for the maintenance of road clearing for the commuters to feel comfortable in their travel from Cotabato City up to Parang and Malabang all the way to Marawi City which stretch up to 70 kilometers long. The road signage's on the sharp curves, street markings and kilometer posts were planned to be placed along the roadsides.

The department targets to cater about 80 percent of the budget focused on national roads and bridges and the balance will be considered by 2013. He further explained that he sub-divided their office programming, 80 percent of it for the national roads and 20 percent for the high-impact or strategic roads adding that these roads are those problematic roads on calamity or conflict affected areas.

While in Basilan, the secretary accompanied Governor Hataman to inaugurate the multi-million pesos worth of JICA-funded Integrated port Terminal in Lamitan City and inspected other infra projects.

In Sulu, Sadain, together with the regional governor and Sulu officials led the ground-breaking of Jolo-Taglibi-Tiptipun road network; inspection of the existing and on-going construction road projects; visit of the area equipment and the Sulu’s two engineering district offices; assessment of the proposed water and drainage systems in Jolo; and meeting with local officials led by Gov. Sakur Tan.

In the Secretary’s entourage were Maguindanao District Engineers Emran Buisan (Dist. 1), and Zainal Mlok (Dist. 2), Lanao District Engineers Tetinga Langit Sumagayan (Dist. 1) and Maldamin Decampong (Dist. 2), Sulu D.E. Taballang Atluh (Dist. 1) and Barlie Nahudan (Dist. 2), Basilan D.E. Bensali Kasim and Tawi-Tawi D.E. Bensoud Ajihil.

Simunul Mayor ousted

by Press Release


Nazif Ahmad B. Abdurahman, the mayor of Simunul, a fourth class and one of the 11 municipalities in Tawi-Tawi, has been ousted from office. This came about as Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 5 Acting Presiding Judge Peter V. Eisma of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, has issued a five-page Special Order dated April 2, 2012 granting the “motion for execution” of its February 10, 2012 order that “annulled and set aside” Abdurahman's proclamation and declared Benzar N. Tambut as the duly elected mayor of Simunul municipality, Province of Tawi-Tawi.

“Wherefore, judgment is hereby rendered, finding the protestant Benzar N. Tambut as the duly elected Municipal Mayor of the Municipality of Simunul, Province of Tawi-Tawi. The proclamation of the protestee Nazif Ahmad B. Abdurahman as Municipal Mayor of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi in the last May 10, 2012 elections is hereby ANNULED and SET ASIDE,” the Court stated in its February 10, 2012 decision.

The Court issued the order after Tambut, assisted by election lawyer Quirino Esguerra, Jr., has protested Abdurahman's proclamation citing various irregularities allegedly conducted and/or perpetrated by Abdurahman and/or his followers and cohorts during the conduct of the automated national and local elections on May 10, 2010.

Tambut has contested and impugned the results of six of the total 20 clustered precincts for the mayoralty position. Earlier, Abdurahman was proclaimed as the winner in the mayoralty race having garnered the highest votes casted and canvassed during the May 10, 2010 election with a total of 2,955 votes as compared to Tambut who obtained 2,386 votes, the second highest ranking in the race of six aspirants for mayor.

However, the Court, after the revision and judicial appreciation of ballots, has annulled and set aside Aburahman's proclamation since it found out that Tambut garnered 2,329 votes while Abdurahman garnered a total of 1,933 votes or with a difference of 396 votes.

The Court in its April 2, 2012 decision has cited “public interest” in granting the “motion for execution” filed by Tambut and Esguerra, his legal counsel.

“Public interest involved is beyond doubt that warrants the execution of the decision of this court pending appeal when this court established the true and genuine expression of the will of the electorate of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, thereby establishing protestant's right to the contested office by declaring him undoubtedly the true and genuine winner with a plurality of Three Hundred Ninety Six (396) votes as manifestly established in the decision promulgated by this Court on February 10, 2012,” the Court said.

“Public interest demands the immediate execution of the decision of the court and to rule against the execution pending appeal is greatly prejudicial to the constituents of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi whose true and genuine winner has been judicially determined by this court,” the Court added.






Court unseats Tawi-Tawi municipal mayor

by Bong Garcia


A REGIONAL trial court has unseated Nazif Ahmad B. Abdurahman as the mayor of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi province.

The Regional Trial Court (RTC) branch 5 acting presiding judge Peter V. Eisma of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, has issued a five-page special order dated April 2, 2012 granting the motion for execution of its February 10, 2012 order that annulled and set aside Abdurahman's proclamation.

The court declared Benzar N. Tambut as the duly elected mayor of Simunul municipality.

The court issued the order after Tambut, assisted by election lawyer Quirino Esguerra Jr., has protested Abdurahman's proclamation.

Tambut’s camp cited various irregularities allegedly conducted by Abdurahman or his followers and cohorts during the conduct of the automated national and local elections on May 10, 2010.

Tambut has contested the results of six of the total 20 clustered precincts for the mayoralty position.

Earlier, Abdurahman was proclaimed as the winner in the mayoralty race having garnered the highest votes casted and canvassed with a total of 2,955 votes as compared to Tambut who obtained 2,386 votes, the second highest ranking in the race of six mayoral aspirants.

The court has annulled and set aside Aburahman's proclamation after it found out after the revision and judicial appreciation of ballots that Tambut garnered 2,329 votes while Abdurahman garnered a total of 1,933 votes or with a difference of 396 votes.

The court in its April 2, 2012 decision has cited public interest in granting the motion for execution filed by Tambut and Esguerra.

“Public interest involved is beyond doubt that warrants the execution of the decision of this court pending appeal when this court established the true and genuine expression of the will of the electorate of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, thereby establishing protestant's right to the contested office by declaring him undoubtedly the true and genuine winner…,” the court said.

Simunul, which comprises of 15 villages, is a 4th class and one of the 11 municipalities of Tawi-Tawi.

Simunul has a population 31,962 people in 4,910 households based on the 2000 census of the National Statistics Office.

DENR-ARMM pursues greening program

by (EOR/APB-PIA 10)


MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 10 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) is engaging in a massive region-wide reforestation under the National Greening Program (NGP).

“We are vigorously pursuing the implementation of the NGP which seeks to address poverty reduction, food security, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation and adaptation,” said DENR-ARMM Secretary Kahal Kedtag during the 1st ARMM Summit on Environmental Protection held here recently.

He said the DENR-ARMM is set to produce 5,296,500 seedlings for the 2011-2012 implementation of the program.

According to him, these seedlings will be planted in 2,500 hectares of denuded and open forestland within the region’s five provinces, namely Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

It can be recalled that DENR Secretary Ramon Paje and ARMM OIC-Governor Mujiv Hataman inked an agreement earlier this year to ensure the full implementation of the NGP in the region.

A flagship program of President Benigno S. Aquino III, the greening program involves the growing of 1.5 billion trees in 1.5 million hectares of lands nationwide from 2011 to 2016.

ARMMAA 2012 reels off

by Bong Garcia


LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — The 2012 Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Athletic Association (ARMMAA) meet kicked off Saturday with officials encouraging the athletes “to aim for the best.”

The week-long athletic competition is being participated by some 6,000 athletes composed of 12 athletic delegations coming from the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and the cities of Lamitan and Marawi.

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The largest athletic contingent is from the province of Tawi-Tawi.

“Aim high and aim for the best,” Armm officer-in-charge Governor Mujiv Hataman told the athletes.

Hataman encouraged the athletes to set a goal not just in participating in the 2012 ARMMAA but to be able to reach to the Palarong Pambansa and possibly in the Olympics.

Hataman also enjoined them to be instruments of peace as this year’s sports competition is themed: “Bridging Peace, Unity and Development through Sports.”

“Let sportsmanship and discipline be the order of the day,” Basilan Congressman Jim Salliman, the elder brother of Hataman, told the athletes.

Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay said the hosting of the ARMMAA 2012 gives them the opportunity to showcase the best of the city especially in the field of tourism.

“We may not provide you excellent facilities but we will offset it with warm hospitality,” Furigay said.

Lamitan City has pristine beaches and beautiful falls like the Bulingan Falls.

Furigay has thanked Hataman and Salliman for their full support to the City Government in the hosting of ARMMAA 2012.

The holding of this year’s ARMMAA is the second time this city played hosts.

The first time Lamitan played hosts to ARMMAA was in 2005 when it was still a municipality.

Remote Villages Get Health Care

by ALI G. MACABALANG


COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Remote villages in the once scary Maguindanao province and the southernmost tips of Tawi-Tawi islands are now receiving health services and medical care which rural folks had longed for decades. Reports about the trend-setting outreach services surfaced at the education and health summit conducted here recently. Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., incumbent health secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), told summit participants that more than 2,000 “deprived people” of Tawi-Tawi received medical attention and health services in a week-long (March 18-25) caravan on the island towns of Sapa-Sapa and Languyan. The “geographically disadvantaged” villagers of the two island towns received various “medical-surgical-safe motherhood outreach” services never done in one setting before, Sinolinding said in his presentation backed by statistics and photos. “Braving the scorching heat of the sun and the staggering hours of travel by sea, we once touched hearts and brought vision and hope among more than 2,000 people in Languyan and Sapapa island towns,” said the ARMM health official cum expert ophthalmologist.

Philippines says it is now ready to sign peace deal with Muslim rebels

by (Mindanao Examiner)


COTABATO CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Apr. 2, 2012) – The Philippines said it is ready to sign a peace agreement with Muslim rebels fighting for self-determination in the restive South. The statement came ahead of peace talks set to begin this month in Kuala Lumpur.

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front said peace negotiations are going nowhere after Manila rejected the rebel demand for a Muslim sub-state in Mindanao similar to Malaysia, which is brokering the talks.

“Government maintains that it is ready to sign a peace pact with the MILF in the soonest possible time. We have laid a very pragmatic proposal that will ensure real and genuine autonomy for the Bangsamoro on the table,” Marvic Leonen, chief government peace negotiators, said on Monday.

He said the last round of talks with the MILF in Marc have been very difficult, with both parties engaged in hard bargaining on the substantive aspects of the negotiations.

“Given the dynamic nature of the negotiations, it has to be understood that there are issues that may be hard to resolve. However, government is committed to work hard with its counterparts in the MILF to find mutually acceptable solutions and bring peace in Mindanao. Instead of trying to fuel people's apprehensions, we urge the MILF to work with government and meet our timetable for a peace agreement this year,” Leonen said.

The MILF said it will not sign any peace deal unless the Aquino government agreed on the creation of Muslim sub-state. “We cannot backtrack on our demand because it the will of the Bangsamoro people,” said Mohagher Iqbal, the chief MILF peace negotiator.

He said the MILF is unlikely to sign any peace accord anytime soon, saying, the government is not committed to forging a genuine and long and lasting solution in Mindanao.

The MILF said Manila has offered the five-province Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao which is composed of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao and Lanao provinces.

“We will stick with our demand for a Muslim sub-state in Mindanao and nothing more,” Iqbal said.

The Aquino government has proposed the so-called “3-for-1” formula to achieve political settlement of conflict in Mindanao.

Among in the proposal is a roadmap for development and socio-economic rehabilitation in the Mindanao through the creation of the Joint Coordinating Committee on Development in which the Philippines offered partnership with the MILF in identifying and implementing socio-economic projects.

And peace accord through the creation of the Bangsamoro Commission that will be composed of representatives from the government, the MILF, and stakeholders in the Mindanao peace process and to re-craft an Organic Act for “genuine autonomy” and supervise the implementation of the peace pact.

And lastly is for the government to acknowledge the historical injustice of conflict and reconciliation wherein it is willing to officially retell the real history of Mindanao.

Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF vice chairman for political affairs, also expressed pessimism about the peace talks with the Aquino government, saying negotiations have been going on for a long time now, but nothing concrete has been achieved, except for the cease-fire agreement.

“We are very doubtful now whether we can sign a peace deal with government under this present administration,” he said following a recent caucus with senior MILF leaders in the South.

“The assessment of the political officers was the recently concluded peace talks between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Malaysia was very disappointing. What the government peace panel headed by Marvic Leonen did in the last talks was never our immediate expectation which is the reason why we are very much disappointed,” Jaafar said.

Damaged luxury cruise towed to port in Tawi-Tawi

by philstar.com


MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Ships are towing the damaged luxury cruise M/V Azamara Quest towards an island in the southern Philippine province of Tawi-Tawi, police said today.

Philippine National Police spokesman Agrimero Cruz Jr. said that a towboat of the Philippine Coast Guard has started towing the ship anchored at Tubbataha Reef at around 9:45 a.m. and is expected to arrive at Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi at around 10:00 p.m. on Sunday. They are being escorted by a Philippine Navy ship.

He added that all the passengers were still onboard the ship.

The 30,277-tonnage cruise ship, which has 590 passengers and 411 crew members, caught fire off southern Philippines Friday night while on its way to Sandakan, Malaysia.

Azamara Club Cruises, operator of Azamara Quest, said in an earlier statement that the vessel caught a fire in the engine room, but it was quickly extinguished; five of its crew members got injured, but no passenger hurt in the accident.

Because of the fire incident, the rest of the 17-day Azamara Quest's voyage was canceled.The ship started with the voyage on March 26 in Hong Kong and docked in Manila, Philippines' port on Thursday.

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