Autonomous Region Muslim Mindanao News November 2015

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Autonomous Region Muslim Mindanao Archived News

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Seal of ARMM

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: 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. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

Yuletide season arrives in ‘Kampilan’ Division

• Source:http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2015/11/30/yuletide-season-arrives-in-kampilan-division/
• Monday, November 30, 2015 9:45 pm

By Ferdinandh B. Cabrera

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao (MindaNews / 30 Nov) – Major Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, commander of the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division, switched on a huge Christmas tree Sunday night, signaling the opening of the “little winter wonderland” inside the Army headquarters.

Bearing the 6ID logo on top, the Christmas tree glittered with white LED lights and surrounded by smaller Christmas trees.

Pangilinan was with the 6ID’s guest of honor, his mistah in the Philippine Military Academy Matikas Class of 1983, Brig. Gen. Romeo Gan, when he led the opening of the festival of lights inside the camp with the soldiers’ families in attendance. Gan once served as 6ID assistant division commander.

Pangilinan gestured as if he was striking his “magic wand” to welcome the yuletide season and appreciated the efforts of the division “partners” and the Kampilan family in performing its mandate of establishing peace and tranquility in its area of operation.

“It’s the time we ponder the good deeds of our Lord by showing and doing good to everyone, setting aside the differences and make Christmas meaningful to all of us,” he said.

The “Winter Wonderland” has yuletide activities, including competition for best booth with Christmas decoration and presentations.

Pangilinan also shared his greetings of peace to all stakeholders in Mindanao who joined the military in promoting peace. “That peace is prevailing in our area of operation is a testimony that combined efforts of all stakeholders in finding peace is effective,” he added.

“We all desire for peace during Christmas. It is now happening in the locality. We do not want to see our foot soldiers to fight our countrymen,” Pangilinan said.

The Winter Wonderland is open to the public, but the military is implementing stricter measures to ensure the safety of the public.

“Let us celebrate Christmas with full of love, sharing our blessings and making peace with each other,” he told the men and women of the 6ID, including their families and friends.

Guv supports MILF’s anti-drug campaign

• Source:news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1521448506364/guv-supports-milf-s-anti-drug-campaign
• Sunday, November 29, 2015

(PIO-Lanao del Sur/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) --- To support the intensified anti-drug campaign of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Lanao del Sur, the provincial governor ordered the display of tarpaulins saying “no to illegal drugs which are considered haram or forbidden” in conspicuous areas in Marawi City and some municipalities.

The tarpaulins also contain the MILF resolution, attested by Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, which states the banning of the “use and sale of shabu or methamphetamine in the Bangsamoro and neighbouring areas.”

The resolution further says, “the MILF shall take appropriate action to any person, Bangsamoro or non-Bangsamoro, found guilty of using shabu and those found beyond reasonable doubt of drug-pushing or being engaged in the sale and proliferation of shabu.”

The resolution was made by the MILF Central Committee adopted during its special session at Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on October 21, 2015.

“Illegal drugs and substances should be banned from any place because they destroy a community,” said Provincial Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. Adiong.

He said illegal drugs are the cause of majority of the crimes committed in the country.

“It is our duty to support anti-drug campaigns of the government, individuals, and organizations, and to also ensure that the law of this nation is first and foremost upheld,” he added.

Australian envoy visits Cotabato to support ARMM education projects

• Source:http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/11/28/1526878/australian-envoy-visits-cotabato-support-armm-education-projects
• Saturday, November 28, 2015 12:04 pm

By John Unson (philstar.com)

COTABATO CITY, Philippines - Officials were elated with Thursday’s courtesy visit of Australian diplomat Nelson Ireland to Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in what was for them another “vote of confidence” for the present ARMM administration.

Ireland was accompanied to the Astanah, an extension office of Hataman annexed to the Office of the Regional Governor inside the 32-hectare ARMM compound in Cotabato City, by Zamboanga City-based peace activist Nung Ajihil.

Ajihil is involved in various peace programs complementing the ongoing peace overture of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Malacañang.

John Magno, regional education secretary of ARMM, on Saturday said the meeting of Ireland, a senior official of the Australian Embassy in Metro Manila, and Hataman was a tacit indication that foreign dignitaries are safe when they are here for official visits to regional officials.

“What else can be a better proof they are safe when they tour around? The coming over of another foreign dignitary to the ARMM capitol was a vote of confidence for the ARMM government,” Magno said.

The Australian government is funding costly education projects being implemented in the ARMM, as a partnership initiative along with the Department of Education (DepEd) in the autonomous region. Nation ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

During their meeting, Hataman and Ireland discussed the need for capacity-building programs to hone the teaching propensities of teachers in the autonomous region.

They also talked about upgrading the capability of teachers to provide quality education to children through strategies tailored-fit to the geographical and the culturally pluralistic settings in the five ARMM provinces.

The ARMM covers Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, which are both in mainland Mindanao and the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The DepEd-ARMM was touted as the most corrupt agency in the autonomous region during the time of past regional governors, plagued with thousands of ghost teachers listed in the agency’s payrolls.

Hataman had cleansed DepEd-ARMM’s payrolls from between 2012 to 2013, generating some P800 million worth savings from funds obtained from the Department of Budget and Management.

The department’s figurehead, Magno, even got death threats for rejecting applications for teaching positions by unlicensed teachers banking only on written recommendations of influential politicians.

Magno and Hataman had enlisted close to 3,000 duly licensed teachers in recent months through a recruitment process capped off with actual teaching and written qualification examinations, after having delisted thousands of non-existent mentors from DepEd-ARMM’s old payrolls.

ARMM forest cover increases, thanks to logging ban

• Source:http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/743064/armm-forest-cover-increases-thanks-to-logging-ban
• Friday, November 27, 2015

By Nash B. Maulana (Inquirer Mindanao) 4:35 pm

COTABATO CITY – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has posted a six-percent increase in its forest cover since a region-wide logging ban was implemented in the aftermath of Typhoon Sendong in 2011, officials said.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said Executive Order 001, which he issued in December 2011, had apparently paid off.

The directive prohibited the cutting of naturally-grown trees in any area of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

ARMM Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Hadji Kahal Kedtag said that based on ARMM’s “precise geo-mapping, tagging and monitoring,” the region’s forest cover has increased to 53,000 hectares in the last quarter of 2015 from 50,000 hectares in about the same period in 2011.

Hataman and Kedtag said the massive greening program in the region, for which the ARMM government has initially provided P 1 million in local funds for seedling nursery development in Basilan, Lanao Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, had played a major role in the increase.

Under the greening program, each of the ARMM provinces were asked to grow seedlings of fast-growing tree varieties and reforest all seven major watershed areas.

Kedtag said Maguindanao alone has produced one million seedlings since 2011, many of which have been planted in three watershed areas in Dimapatoy, South Upi and Kabulnan.

He said also substantially reforested were Lanao del Sur’s areas – including a portion of the watershed in Lake Lanao; Basilan’s Biotic Area, and the Sulu and Tawi-Tawi Watersheds.

Kedtag said “the mandatory reforestation program of the DENR-ARMM also covers a portion of the Biotic Area Watershed in Lamitan, Basilan which is supposed to be under the operational jurisdiction of the national government.”

Hataman said the logging ban remains although it did not cover permits that the national government has granted to private companies for Integrated Forest Management Agreement (IFMA).

However, he said the regional government made sure that no IFMA project in the region traversed watershed areas.

ARMM turns over new market place in Maguindanao town

• Source:http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=831756
• Thursday, November 26, 2015

(PNA), LAP/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 26 (PNA) -- Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Wednesday formally turned over a new market building in the town of Sultan Kudarat in Maguindanao.

The newly-constructed market building in Barangay Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao serves as converging point of commuters and market goers having been located at a crossroad inter-connecting the Cotabato-Davao and Cotabato-Marawi Highways.

It was jointly inaugurated by ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman and Sultan Kudarat municipal officials led by Mayor Shameem Mastura.

The Php161-million project was funded by Gov. Hataman's office with local funding support from the local government of Sultan Kudarat.

Engineer Don Mustapha Loong, public works secretary of ARMM, said the Sultan Kudarat town marker was one of the many development projects programmed by the Hataman administration out of grants from the region’s 2014 and 2015 infrastructure budgets.

Aside from the market building, the project includes an arterial road that would connect interior villages to main highways near the market area.

Shameen Mastura, who was not an ally of President Aquino's Liberal Party having been a member of United Nationalist Alliance, was grateful to Gov. Hataman and the president for having the project in his town despite his different political affiliation.

"The Aquino government does not mind political affiliations of local political leaders in project implementation because its the people and the constituents who will benefit from the project. What is important is the people," Hataman told reporters.

He stressed that the project is complimenting the peace initiatives of President Aquino and to show to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) the government is determined to bring about development in Bangsamoro areas.

Crossing Darapanan where the new structure was located is a kilometer away from the MILF's main base - Camp Darapanan.

ARMM intensifies Gender and Development

• Source:http://mindanaoexaminer.com/armm-intensifies-gender-and-development/
• Wednesday, November 25, 2015 11:28 pm

(Bureau of Public Information)

COTABATO CITY – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is intensifying its campaign to mainstream Gender and Development (GAD) and eventually eliminate Violence against Women (VAW).

The region, through its Women Commission (RCBW-ARMM), kicked-off the annual “18-day campaign to end incidences of violence against women” on Wednesday, November 25, in this city.

The campaign, based on a national policy, is being held from November 25 to December 12 aimed at raising awareness among all stakeholders that violence against women is a public issue and of national concern. It supports the government’s goal to protect the human rights of women and its commitment to address all forms of violence against women.

Abderson Antao, RCBW-ARMM planning chief, said part of the campaign is pushing for the institutionalization of the Gender and Development focal point system in each agency in the region. Such system, he said, is the mechanism to implement and mainstream Gender and Development in the offices.

“Gender and Development is very important. If implemented thoroughly, it will protect and promote the welfare of women. Both men and women have a role in social development and in peace building especially in conflict-affected areas like the ARMM,” said Antao.

Antao said they are urging all agencies to have an established Gender and Development focal point system. Currently, only the region’s Education department, Department of Agrarian Reform, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources are the only agencies with an established focal point system.

Simultaneously, the region launched the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the ARMM Gender and Development Code. The code is the regional translation of Republic Act 9710, or the Magna Carta for Women and was signed into law on May 20, 2013.

“ARMM is demographically and culturally distinct. The code is an instrument in addressing gender issues and advancing the status of women in the region,” said Antao. This year’s campaign bears the theme “End VAW Now! It’s our duty! Gains and ways forward”.

300 farmer-beneficiaries in ARMM receive land ownership title

• Source:http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1521448196524/300-farmer-beneficiaries-in-armm-receive-land-ownership-title
• Tuesday, November 24, 2015

(BPI/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 23 – Almost 300 farmer-beneficiaries in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) received their Certificate of Land Ownership (CLO) on November 19.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman and Amihilda Sangcopan, secretary of the region’s Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR-ARMM), personally awarded the CLO to 70 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) from Basilan and 221 ARBs from Maguindanao. The awarding was held during the opening ceremony of this year’s ARMM anniversary in Cotabato City.

The distributed CLO covers a total of 711 hectares of landholdings in the region wherein 154.5 hectares are in Basilan while 556.5 are in Maguindanao.

Secretary Sangcopan said there are still 967 pending CLOs in the regional DAR office that covers more than 2,000 hectares of landholdings in the provinces of Sulu, Basilan, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao. Four hundred eighty one of these are already for transmittal to the office of the regional governor.

She said the landholdings awarded are part of the agency’s distribution target this year. “We are working to distribute 20,000 hectares of landholdings this 2015. We are assured of approved survey plans before the end of the year,” she added.

Datu Jan Utto, 35, CLO beneficiary from Datu Saudi in Maguindanao expressed his gratitude to the Autonomous Regional Government noting the land awarded to him will help enhance his family’s livelihood and boost crop production.

“Nagsasaka na ako simula bata at matagal na namin itong hinihintay. Maraming salamat sa ARMM government (I am a farmer since childhood and we have waited this for so long. We are thankful to the ARMM government),” said Datu Jan.

The CLO is a proof that a farmer-beneficiary has the right of land ownership. Land covered by DAR’s CLO cannot be sold, transferred or donated within 10 years upon awarding, except through hereditary succession, or if sold back to the state or to another qualified beneficiary within the 10-year period.

RPMA-ARMM upgrades facilities, services in ports

• Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1521448253348/rpma-armm-upgrades-facilities-services-in-ports
• Monday, November 23, 2015

(BPI/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 23 (PIA) -- To ensure safety and convenience of its clientele, the Regional Ports and Management Authority of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RPMA-ARMM) continuously upgrades the facilities and services of ports in the region.

Ersan Warad, the regional ports authority’s general manager, said the agency recently signed a memorandum with ports officials and ARMM’s Tourism department to establish Port Tourism Information Assistance Center to strengthen the tourism industry in the region.

“Our client is our people and we want to compensate the fees our clients pay by providing them quality basic services and standardized ports. This is in adherence to the Reform Agenda of the ARMM Regional Governor, Hon. Mujiv S. Hataman,” Warad said.

During the celebration of the regional ports authority’s 18th anniversary on Sunday, November 22, Warad also said they will initiate site improvement and launch a beautification drive and make the ports environment-friendly. The regional ports authority’s official distributed closed-circuit television system to base ports in Lamitan, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan.

In November 2014, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed between the RPMA-ARMM, Office for Transportation Security, and the Department of Transportation and Communications.

The agreement strengthens the commitment of the regional ports authority in compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), including the National Security Program for Sea Port Transportation and Maritime Infrastructure to ensure the preparation of Port Facility Security Plan in each port within RPMA’s jurisdiction.

The ISPS Code is a new “mandate imposed by the IMO to its member-countries on the holistic security control of passengers, ships, cargoes and port facilities against international terrorist activities.”

As of November 2015, the RPMA-ARMM exceeded its P12-million target revenue collection, as it generated P15-million total collection from its seaport operations.

RPMA-ARMM operates the base ports in Jolo in Sulu; Bongao in Tawi-Tawi; and Lamitan City in Basilan; as well as the sub-ports of Siasi in Sulu; Maluso in Basilan; and Mapun, Sitangkai and Sibutu in Tawi-Tawi. It also exercises regulatory powers in six private ports/wharves operating in the region.

PNP deputy chief visits PRO-ARMM, pushes for proper wearing of police uniforms

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&nid=2&rid=828306
• Sunday, November 22, 2015

(PNA), JMC/NYP/EOF

PARANG, Maguindanao (PNA) -- A ranking police official from Camp Crame on Tuesday, during a visit here, has lauded the officers and men of the Police Regional Office in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Police Dir. Caralino Rodriguez Jr, director of PNP Research and Development, visited the PRO-ARMM regional office in Camp SK Pendatun, Parang, Maguindanao as part of transformation program of the PNP leadership.

Rodriguez advised PRO-ARMM officers and men to maintain or improve image projection to the public to maintain praises and appreciation.

"For the PNP Personnel of PRO ARMM, I would like to advise you that we as law enforcer, we must use our position to gain praises," Rodriguez told ARMM police officers during the Distinguished Visitors Program the regional office accorded him.

Rodriguez earlier lauded the ARMM police leadership for the well-maintained parade ground and ambiance of the golf course.

"The presence of local chief executives this morning is a sign of good and strong partnership with the localities and this is an example of gaining trust and support. Lastly, I advise you to wear your uniform with dignity and humble heart,” he added.

Speaking to reporters, Rodriguez said he has been visiting police offices nationwide to direct police officers to help restore public confidence.

He said wearing of police uniforms properly is the first thing the public see in law enforcers. "If you are lousy in projecting yourself in public, you cannot expect the people to respect or praise you," he told police officers and enlisted men.

To erring police officers involved in illegal activities and illegal drugs, Rodriguez told them that "you have no business in the police organization."

During his visit, Rodriguez led a tree planting activity within the 40-hectare PRO-ARMM compound in Barangay Making, Parang.

Rodriguez said his initial impression was that the officers and men of PNP-ARMM wear their uniform correctly, properly and with dignity.

"But this should be downloaded to the lowest police officer, especially those manning the streets because they interact more often with the public," he said.

ARMM residents urged to subscribe to region's agri products

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=3&rid=829490
• Saturday, November 21, 2015

(PNA), CTB/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY (PNA) -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has a lot to offer, especially agricultural products, an agriculture official today said.

Kadiguia Abdullah, chief of Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Division (RAFID) of the Department of Agriculture and Fishery (DAF-ARMM), said even local and national tourists have been coming to visit the mini-trade fair in the ARMM compound in Cotabato City.

The mini-trade fair, which showcased indigenous and organic Moro food and fishery products from five southern provinces, is being held at the covered court of DAF-ARMM as one of the highlights of the ARMM 26th foundation anniversary activities which kicked off Friday morning.

ARMM covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Abdullah said some tourists even procured products on display but agriculture officials denied them, saying they can order agriculture products.

“They were so fascinated with the organic food items displayed in stalls assigned to each of the five ARMM provinces,” Abdullah added.

ARMM Executive Sec. Laisa Alamia, also acting DAF-ARMM secretary, has urged the public to buy locally made black or brown rice which the region is now producing.

During the week-long celebration, ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman is also expected to disperse farm machinery and post harvest facilities parked to farmer beneficiaries.

Since 2013, Hataman has already distributed not less than Php1 billion worth of farm equipment, tools, fertilizers and rice and corn seedlings to thousands farmers in the region's five provinces. The equipment and farm inputs were procured through the funds from the national office of the Department of Agriculture and grants from the Anak Mindanao partylist.

ARMM distributes 291 CLOAs to region's farmer beneficiaries

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=829469
• Friday, November 20, 2015

By Edwin O. Fernandez [(PNA), CTB/NYP/EOF]

COTABATO CITY, Nov 20 (PNA) -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) today distributed Certificates of Land Ownership (CLOAs) to almost 300 farmer beneficiaries in the region as one of the highlights of ARMM anniversary celebration, officials said.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman and Amihilda Sangcopan, secretary of the region’s Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR-ARMM), led the awarding of CLOAs to 70 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) from Basilan and 221 ARBs from Maguindanao.

It was held during the opening ceremony of this year’s ARMM anniversary in Cotabato City.

The distributed CLOAs covers a total of 711 hectares of landholdings in the region wherein 154.5 hectares are in Basilan while 556.5 are in Maguindanao.

Secretary Sangcopan said there are still 967 pending CLOAs in the regional DAR office that covers more than 2,000 hectares of landholdings in the provinces of Sulu, Basilan, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.

Four hundred eighty one of these are already for transmittal to the office of the regional governor.

She said the landholdings awarded were part of the agency’s distribution target this year.

“We are working to distribute 20,000 hectares of landholdings this 2015. We are assured of approved survey plans before the end of the year,” she added.

Datu Jan Utto, 35, CLO beneficiary from Datu Saudi in Maguindanao expressed his gratitude to the Autonomous Regional Government noting the land awarded to him will help enhance his family’s livelihood and boost crop production.

“I am a farmer since childhood and we have waited this for so long. We are thankful to the ARMM government),” said Datu Jan.

The CLO is a proof that a farmer-beneficiary has the right of land ownership. Land covered by DAR’s CLO cannot be sold, transferred or donated within 10 years upon awarding, except through hereditary succession, or if sold back to the state or to another qualified beneficiary within the 10-year period.

ARMM distributes Php20-M worth of agri post harvest facilities to Maguindanao farmers

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=11&rid=829080
• Thursday, November 19, 2015

(PNA), LAP/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 19 (PNA) -- Agriculture officials in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) have distributed Php20 million worth of various farming equipment to registered farmers' cooperatives and to Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) farmers association in Maguindanao to help them increase crop production and reduce post harvest losses.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman and lawyer Laisa Alamia, ARMM’s executive secretary and the concurrent officer-in-charge of the region’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF-ARMM), led the distribution of farm machineries and implements on Thursday during the opening ceremony of the 26th ARMM anniversary at the ARMM Compound in Cotabato City.

The post-harvest equipment, which include farm tractor with implements, combine harvester with implements, hand tractors with trailers and knapsack sprayers, are expected to make farmers more productive.

Alamia said the fund used in the acquisition and distribution of the farm machineries and implements comes from the Agri-Pinoy Rice and the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) programs.

The Agri-Pinoy Rice program is one of the banner initiatives of DA targeting rice farming and uplifting the lives of Filipino farmers. The PAMANA program, on the other hand, is the national government’s peace and development framework for conflict-affected areas.

“We urge the farmers to enhance their knowledge on farming technologies to further boost agriculture in the province,” said Alamia.

She reiterated that the farming equipment distributed will help increase agricultural activities of Maguindanaon farmers especially in rice and corn production.

Under the Agri-Pinoy Rice program, the recipients are the Mindanao State University (MSU)-Maguindanao, Al Muizz Farmer and Livelihood Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Ekssalam Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, and Kalumenga Kadtatabanga Farmers Association.

The PAMANA beneficiaries are El-Grande Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Datu Odin Sinsuat Women’s Producers Cooperative, Talayan Agri-Farm Industry Marketing Cooperative, Tunggol Farmers’ Producers Cooperative, and Greenfield Producers Cooperative.

Bai Soraya Sinsuat, MSU-Maguindanao chancellor, said the farm tractor with implements that the university received will help agriculture students in their academic work, especially in research.

“We are thankful to the ARMM government for granting us the farm tractor. It will speed up the harvesting of our crops),” said Santiago Belotindos of Tungol Farmers’ Cooperative.

Alamia said the ARMM’s Agriculture and Fisheries department will distribute machineries and implements to farmers in the other provinces of the region before the end of the year.

The region is the fifth rice and corn producer of Mindanao.

ARMM vows to strengthen youth empowerment in the region

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=827963
• Wednesday, November 18, 2015

(PNA), FFC/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY (PNA) –- Convinced the youth plays major roles in peace and development in their respective communities, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Tuesday vowed to strengthen its commitment to empower young leaders in the province of Basilan, officials said.

This commitment was sealed through a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Autonomous Regional Government and Ayala Foundation, Inc. with the region’s Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Basilan provincial office.

The agreement was signed in Isabela City, Basilan with ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman leading the ceremony.

The MoA includes support to the implementation of the projects of the Basilan Young Leaders Alumni, through the Leadership Communities (LeadCom) program.

Moreover, it also provides for stakeholders to handle the program’s administrative and logistical support and skills and livelihood training requirements.

Hataman said the BYLP is an initiative that empowers, inspires and involves the next-generation leaders of Basilan. It conducts plenary discussions, workshops, team-building activities, educational tours and institutional visits to various sites and locations all over the country.

The LeadCom, on the other hand, is a program that teaches youth leaders to explore and implement projects like skills and livelihood training, youth capacity building, health and alternative medicine awareness campaigns, and peace and governance initiatives for the province’s conflict-affected residents.

The project trains and empowers community-based youth organizations by helping them design and implement projects that address their communities’ most pressing needs. It enables young leaders to meaningfully contribute to the development of their communities.

"The LeadCom project would “respond to the challenge of creating stronger and more sustainable growth and development opportunities in the province of Basilan,” Hataman told reporters.

"It helps fulfill the youth leadership and development thrust of the Basilan Development Program,” Hataman said of the framework designed to contribute to the fulfillment of the peace agreement for the Bangsamoro as the foundation of lasting and durable peace in Mindanao.

To fund the project, the ARMM has earmarked PHP5 million while the Ayala Foundation extended PHP100,000 as seed money. The amount was downloaded to the DILG-Basilan office.

LeadCom Basilan, with its partners Office of the Regional Governor-ARMM, Nagdilaab Foundation, Inc., and the Eisenhower fellowship Association of the Philippines, started in 2012.

It has implemented 97 youth projects, and trained 953 youth leaders and 754 facilitators. It has awarded PHP970,000 to different youth groups all over the country and reached 6,771 direct beneficiaries as well as mobilized 827 volunteers from local communities.

ARMM joins world in condemning violence, terrorism

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=828250
• Tuesday, November 17, 2015

By Edwin O. Fernandez [(PNA), RMA/NYP/EOF]

COTABATO CITY , Nov. 17 (PNA) -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) joins the world in condemning the bloody terror attacks in Paris and around the world that claimed hundreds of lives, officials said Tuesday.

The region is not only issuing statements of condemnation and anger but show it through actions.

This year's commemoration of ARMM foundation anniversary will be marked with a muted celebration in the wake of terror attacks that claimed hundreds of lives around the world.

“Given recent events, we feel that it is best to direct our attention to expressing solidarity with the rest of the world that mourns over the countless deaths resulting from indiscriminate attacks against humanity,” Amir Mawallil, executive director of ARMM's Bureau of Public Information said.

The act simply means to show solidarity with those sufferings around the world due to senseless terrorism and violence, he said.

In January this year, thousands were also displaced by the armed conflict in Maguindanao. They are currently in the process of rebuilding communities and transitioning back to their everyday lives.

Because of this, the executive committee of this year's celebration has decided to cancel a number of events, including the street dancing competition and tribal parade.

Mawallil said this year's celebration, no matter how simple and modest, would still highlight the history of the region and its achievements over the past 26 years.

"It will pay homage to those who sacrificed their lives fighting for the Bangsamoro people," he said.

At the same time, the celebration will underscore the agenda of peace and reform that Gov. Mujiv Hataman have set to ensure that the people will benefit from the regional government's services and enjoy life without armed conflicts.

"The ARMM leadership now has achieved many things that many were skeptical about in the beginning," Mawallil said.

"The gains of Hataman leadership based on a strong reform agenda and its all-out support for peace in Mindanao are just some of the things we surely must celebrate," he added.

Because of this, activities geared towards providing services and promoting a better understanding of Islam will push through, such as the ARMM People’s day and an exhibition of Quran readers who have recently won local and international competitions. Both events are scheduled on Nov. 19.

Events in line with the celebration of the Mindanao Week of Peace, which will begin on Nov. 26, are not also affected by the changes.

“The regional government feels that we should all continue our engagement in the ongoing peace process and seek a deeper understanding of the Muslim community, instead of letting the national discourse be swayed in favor of prejudice and hate,” Mawallil said.

The ARMM anniversary is commemorated every year in the month of November, following the creation of the region on Nov. 6, 1990 by virtue of Republic Act 6734, during the administration of former President Corazon C. Aquino.

The development of the region, both in infrastructure and governance, were realized when President Benigno Aquino named Hataman as officer in charge in late 2011.

Through Hataman's reform agenda anchored on "Daang Matuwid" advocacy of President Aquino, ARMM has succeeded in bringing about genuine reforms that many skeptics though will not happen in the graft-ridden regional autonomous government.

The regional administration has been very supporting in the government peace process in Mindanao, knowing fully well its populace will benefit from the dividends of peace.

Sustained peace would also highlight the ARMM anniversary celebration, Mawallil said.

ARMM basic literacy rate up

• Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/armm-basic-literacy-rate-up/
• Monday, November 16, 2015

By Nonoy E. Lacson

Zamboanga City – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) registered a significant increase in its basic literacy rate from 82.5 percent in 2008 to 86.1 percent, based on the 2013 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Marjuni Maddi, ARMM’s Education department (DepEd-ARMM) assistant secretary for academics, said the basic literacy survey is being used for “initial learning of reading and writing, which adults who have never been to school need to go through.” The region’s functional literacy rate also increased to 72.1 percent in 2013 from 71.6 percent in 2008.

Maddi credited the increase in the region’s basic literacy rate to efforts of the agency in solving literacy-related problems.

DepEd-ARMM is currently implementing ‘Abot-Alam’, a national program that aims at relocating “the out-of-school youth (OSY) nationwide who are 15 to 30 years old and who have not completed basic/higher education or who are unemployed, and to mobilize and harmonize programs, which will address these OSYs’ needs and aspirations.”

According to Maddi, the agency was also engaged in other interventions such as the Alterative Delivery Mode (ADM), a joint program with Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao-ARMM. ADM is being implemented by BRAC Philippines.

The program has established learning centers in poor, conflict-affected, and disadvantaged communities in the region to give out-of-school children access to basic education. It provides catch-up opportunities for young children in remote and deprived communities of the region where regular public education is not easily accessible.

The project already built 1,220 learning centers across ARMM including seven floating learning centers in coastal areas in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

These learning centers cater to 38,084 students from kindergarten to Grades 1 to 3.

Maddi encouraged everyone to take part in promoting the importance of education. “Education is everybody’s business. We should not leave it to our teachers,” he said.

The 2013 FLEMMS survey covered about 26,000 sample households in 1,600 Barangays in the country with about 1,200 sample households were taken from ARMM.

P835-M earmarked for Tawi-Tawi airport upgrade

• Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/p835-m-earmarked-for-tawi-tawi-airport-upgrade/
• Sunday, November 15, 2015

By Nonoy E. Lacson

Zamboanga City – The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has allotted P835 million for the renovation and further development of two airports in Tawi-Tawi province.

Tawi-Tawi Gov Nurbert Sahali said DOTC has allotted P248 million to jumpstart the renovation of the Sanga-Sanga airport in Bongao and another P10 million for the fencing requirement expenses of Cagayan de Tawi-Tawi airport.

Of the P248 million, Sahali said P99 million will be utilized for the acquisition of lots while the remaining P149 million will be used to finance the civil works and other infrastructure related works at the airport in the provincial capital.

Sahali said DOTC is also scheduled to release P577 million by January next year to finance the further improvement and development of the Sanga-Sanga airport.

“We, the people of Tawi-Tawi are very fortunate that President Aquino shows his utmost concern to our airport in Bongao, by giving us P835 million through DOTC for the improvement of the two airports,” Sahali said.

BoC, ARMM forge Polloc port improvement deal

• Source: http://zamboangatimes.ph/top-news/16715-boc-armm-forge-polloc-port-improvement-deal.html
• Saturday, November 14, 2015

(Daily Zamboanga Times)

The Bureau of Customs and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Friday agreed to help each other push forward the fledgling Regional Economic Zone Authority (REZA) in support of the economic agenda of the southern peace process.

The REZA was created in 2003 during the time of ARMM Gov. Parouk Hussin, but remained a paper tiger owing to lack of political determination to put its mechanisms at work.

Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina and ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman signed in Davao City Friday a joint memorandum of agreement (JMO) binding the offices they each represent to mutually cooperate in revitalizing the operations of the International Polloc Port, seat of REZA, located in Parang town in Maguindanao.

Hataman said their efforts to improve the operations of Polloc Port with the help of the BOC and to put the REZA into action is parallel with the economic agenda of President Benigno Aquino III’s peace overture with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Hataman said the JMO he and Lina signed, in a symbolic rite at a function facility of the Park Inn Hotel in Davao City on Friday, will help address ARMM’s being void of essential customs and function powers to maximize the operation of the Polloc Port.

Functions and powers of the BOC are not among those the national government can devolve to the ARMM, which exists based on a regional charter, Republic Act 9054.

The Polloc Port, supposedly a major economic corridor in Central Mindanao, was so mismanaged during the time of past ARMM governors, despite having ministerial control over the Regional Ports Management Authority (RPMA).

The primary function of the RPMA is to operate and market the domestic and international trading viabilities of the port.

He said the JMO will put forward the rules needed to maximize the operations of REZA, amid the influx of investors the present ARMM administration invited to put up agricultural plantations in the autonomous region.

Hataman said he is grateful to Hexan Mabang, executive director of REZA, and Datu Ishak Mastura, chairperson of the ARMM’s Regional Board of Investments, who worked together in drafting the JMO.

Mastura was one of the proponents of REZA’s creation by the ARMM’s 24-seat Regional Legislative Assembly.

The signing of the JMO was witnessed by ARMM’s regional vice governor, Haroun Al-Rashid Lucman, Mayor Ibrahim Ibay of Parang, Hataman’s assistant secretary for Maguindanao, Kirby Abdullah, and regional chief-of-staff Rasol Mitmug, Jr.

Also present in the event were ranking Davao City and Metro Manila-based BOC officials and a senior staff of Hataman, Datu Abdelwin Sangkula.

The activity was capped off with the BOC’s grant of customs bonded warehouse accreditation certificate to enable two firms, the Terminal Facilities and Service Corporation and the Davao International Container Terminal, to expand their operations at the Polloc Port.

ARMM’s legislature confirms appointment of regional education secretary

• Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1521447343444/armm-s-legislature-confirms-appointment-of-regional-education-secretary
• Friday, November 13, 2015

(BPI/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 13 (PIA) --- The Regional Legislative Assembly (RLA) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has confirmed on November 11 the appointment of secretary of the region's Department of Education (DepEd).

Members of the RLA’s Commission on Appointments unanimously voted in favor of the confirmation of Dr. John Magno.

Dr. Magno previously served as DepEd-ARMM’s assistant secretary for operation. He vowed to continue the reforms that have been introduced by the administration of ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman in the department.

“We give you our best assurances that we shall strive even more to institute changes in our educational system geared towards uplifting not just the quality of education in the region, but also the moral of our teachers,” he said.

Prior his confirmation, the RLA’s committee on education, arts, culture and sports development chaired by Assemblyman Majul U. Gandamra of the first district of Lanao del Sur conducted a hearing on November 10 to review Dr. Magno's appointment.

"In the course of the interpellation, the nominee substantiated the information and documents required, and answered questions regarding the operations, thrusts, and programs of this department, the committee found he is qualified and competent to serve in the position," said Ziaur-Rahman Adiong, assemblyman of the first district of Lanao del Sur and the committee vice-chairman.

Adiong said their committee recommended the confirmation of Dr. Magno.

Dr. Magno was appointed as DepEd-ARMM secretary by ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman on May 22, 2015, following the resignation of lawyer Jamar Kulayan from the post. Kulayan’s three-year tenure was marked by administrative and financial reforms in the once problematic agency.

Dr. Magno enjoys strong support from the more than 22,000 teachers in the region.

Mercy Mae Estaura, a high school teacher from Marawi City, said she supports the new secretary and expects continuous improvements in the department.

“We are hoping to see more reforms sa aming department, katulad ng professionalization of hiring of teachers, ‘yung on-time release of salary of teachers, bukod pa sa iba (We are hoping to see more reforms in our department, like the professionalization of the hiring of teachers, and the on-time release of salary of teachers, among others).”

Hataman approves creation of ARMM Islamic advisory council

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=826077
• Thursday, November 12, 2015

(PNA), JBP/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 12 (PNA) -- Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Wednesday approved a legislation establishing a regional religious authority to help address contemporary issues and challenges faced by Filipino Muslims.

Hataman signed into law Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act (MMA) No. 323 or An Act Creating the ARMM Regional “Darul Ifta.” The law institutionalizes the “Darul Ifta” or the Islamic advisory council in the region.

ARMM’s Regional Legislative Assembly House Speaker Ronnie Sinsuat, members of the region's legislative assembly and some religious leaders (muftun) from different provinces of the region attended the signing.

Sinsuat said the RDI shall be primarily responsible for the promulgation and issuance of legal opinions (fatwa)pertaining to Muslim personal laws and jurisprudence pursuant to Article VIII, Section 20 of Republic Act 9054 or the act strengthening and expanding the organic act for the ARMM.

Hataman said the body will advise and serve as consultant to the regional government of the ARMM and the RLA on matters pertaining to Islamic laws, jurisprudence and ecclesiastical matters and serve as the “religious guide” of ARMM leaders, bureaucrats and professionals, including those in the local government units.

He said the regional government has earmarked PHP5 million for the initial operation of the RDI from the unexpended fund of the Office of the Regional Treasury (ORT) and its succeeding annual budget will be provided for in the Local Appropriations Act.

Hataman reiterated that the creation of the RDI will help unite all the Bangsamoro in the region and will boost good governance.

“This office will recognize rights and well-being of the Bangsamoro due regard to their beliefs, customs, traditions and institutions, and further ensures their contribution to the regional government’s goals and aspirations,” Sinsuat said.

The MMA 323 also calls for the establishment of RDI provincial offices in each of the five component provinces of the ARMM, namely Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The provincial office shall be headed by a Provincial Mufti who shall be selected from among the resident Ulamas (Islamic preachers) in the particular province.

Dr. Aboulkhair Tarason, regional grand mufti, said they will work, collaborate and cooperate with the international, national, regional and local bodies on matters of mutual interest and benefit, such as “halal” businesses, marriages, hajj (pilgrimage), professional engagement, intellectual exchange and academic discourses.

In September 2013, Hataman institutionalized the “juris consult” (Islamic advisory body) in the region through Executive Order No. 009 series of 2014 to help oversee the conduct of religious activities and the propagation of the Islamic faith in ARMM.

Maguinanaon bags ARMM statistics quiz championship title, to represent region in national contest

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=825861
• Wednesday, November 11, 2015

(PNA), FPV/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov 11 (PNA) -- A 20-year-old student of a state technical institute bested 11 other students in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) after he bagged the championship title of the 24th Philippine Statistics Quiz regional finals on Tuesday, officials said today.

Suod Barodi, interim regional director of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA-ARMM), said Josua Diaz from the Upi Agricultural School-Provincial Technical Institute of Agriculture (UAS-PTIA), bagged the championship title while Hanna Sansarona from Mindanao State University (MSU–Marawi City) and Jason Diamante of MSU-Maguindanao landed on the 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up, respectively.

Each of the winners received a medal, a trophy and a cash prize.

The regional statistics administered by Regional Statistics Coordination Committee of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RSCC-ARMM) aims to promote the importance of statistics.

Eleven students from different colleges and universities in the ARMM competed in the event. The participating schools included the Mindanao State University (MSU) – Marawi City, MSU-Maguindanao, MSU- Sulu, Notre Dame of Jolo College, and the Upi Agricultural School –Provincial Technical Institute of Agriculture (UAS-PTIA).

"The annual event was designed to test students on their knowledge on statistics,” Barodi said. He said it also “aims to instill the value of statistics among them and to measure the effectiveness of high school statistics curriculum.”

Diaz, 17, who is taking up Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Technology, Livelihood and Education (T.L.E.), said he took “immense review and practice before the activity.”

He will represent the ARMM in the National Statistics Quiz on December 8, 2015 in Manila. He said he will study hard and will try his best to land on top in the national round of the quiz.

The RSCC-ARMM is an inter-agency committee that sets policies on statistical matters. It is headed by the ARMM’s Regional Planning and Development Office (RPDO-ARMM) and co-chaired by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-ARMM.

Lanao del Sur farmers receive farming equipment, machineries

• Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1521446987229/lanao-del-sur-farmers-receive-farming-equipment-machineries
• Tuesday, November 10, 2015

(PIO Lanao del Sur/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) ---The Department of Agriculture – in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DA-ARMM), led by Assistant Secretary for Finance Alexander “Boyet” G. Alonto, Jr. and Provincial Director Pangalian “Alexie” Alonto Balindong, Jr., turned over farm machineries and equipment to almost 80 accredited farm cooperatives in the province.

The official turnover ceremonies were held on November 4, 2015 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, this city.

Alonto represented ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman during the event.

“Governor Hataman is very supportive of the farmers in Lanao del Sur and he sees the huge agricultural potential of the province,” Alonto said.

After lobbying for the release of these equipment and machineries to the farmers in his province, Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Bombit Alonto Adiong, Jr. was overwhelmed with joy upon receiving them and lauded the agriculture department.

“Our farmers can now easily work on their lands to ensure they produce quality and abundant rice and corn for our constituents,” he said.

“We cannot thank Governor Hataman and of course, President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino, III enough for their support to our farmers.”

The machineries included hand tractors with trailers, threshers, floating tillers, pedal threshers, shellers, corn mills, hammer mills, a cassava chipper and granulator and 4-wheel drive tractors.

Balindong said the machineries and equipment shall replace carabaos which usually prepare agricultural lands in days.

“The 4-wheel drive tractor can now easily prepare the lands in just two hours,” he claimed. “The benefits include less labor, minimal time and additional income for the farmers as they can rent out these equipment and machineries to nearby barangays.”

Adiong further said that investing in the agricultural sector is one of his key strategies to help eradicate poverty in his province.

DENR-ARMM starts massive tree planting in Maguindanao’s watershed areas

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=8&rid=824747
• Monday, November 9, 2015

(PNA), JMC/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 9 (PNA) –- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DENR-ARMM) has started seedling preparations for massive tree planting programs in Maguindanao, environment officials said.

Forester Kahal Kedtag, DENR-ARMM regional secretary, said his office has started seedling preparations on Sunday with the participation of farmers in Sitio Dimapatoy, Barangay Lomboy, Datu Odin Sinsuat (DOS), Maguindanao.

Through the “cash for work program,” DENR-ARMM enlisted members of the Lupa Sinaka (farm lot) Farmers’ Associaiton (LSFA) of Barangay Lomboy, DOS, Maguindanao.

”They prepare planting materials and paid 50 centavos every seedling,” Kedtag said of the project which aims to produce 1 million seedlings in a month.

“This is a very noble project, our farmers earn while they help restore our lost environment,” Kedtag said of association members who have no permanent job or fixed income.

The seedlings include those for Gmelina, coffee, acacia and narra, he said.

”These will be planted in the Kabulnan watershed in South Upi and Dimapatoy in DOS watershed areas, both in Maguindanao.

The South Upi watershed provides water for the Kabulnan irrigation system that waters 15,000 hectares of farmlands in Maguindanao.

On the other hand, the Dimapatoy watershed provides water sources for Metro Cotabato Water District (MCWD) serving water for Cotabato City and the towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat and Sultan Kudarat, both in Maguindanao.

“This is our way of helping restore our forest, this is to help cushion the impact of climate change,” Kedtag told reporters.

Aside from tree planting program for the watershed, DENR-ARMM had been spearheading massive tree planting activities in partnership with the military-led Balik Kalikasan Advocacy Group (BKAG).

Started in early 2014, the BKAG, under the leadership of the military’s 603rd Infantry Brigade, has already planted more than 1 million trees in Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

ARMM investments hit P6B in 2015

• Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/armm-investments-hit-p6b-in-2015/227994/
• Sunday, November 8, 2015 9:08 pm

By VOLTAIRE SOLANO PALAÑA (REPORTER)

THE Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has attracted P6 billion worth of investments so far this year, proof of its transformation into a business-driven region.

“The total investment now stands at P6.104 billion, the highest investment level attained by ARMM in any given year,” said ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman.

According to the Regional Board of Investment-ARMM (RBOI), the P6 billion approved investments as of October 31 includes P600 million from Matling Industrial and Commercial Corp. which was approved only last October 26 and P400 million from Maguindanao Energy Farms Inc.

“Maguindanao Energy Farms, Inc. is investing P400 million in a napier grass biofuel plantation,” he added.

Besides a booming mining industry, Hataman said the setting up of petroleum businesses will spur growth in the region and these private investments will be complemented by infrastructure projects to bring closer links among the provinces in the region.

The ARMM expects another investment project to be registered before the year ends, “which proves that good governance leads to more investment opportunities that will bring more jobs for the people,” he said.

He said private investments are coming in as a result of the region’s development strategy and the improving peace situation. “Peace is at hand,” he said.

The growth in investments has come about despite the challenges faced by the region from conflicts, natural disaster and other extreme events.

The governor said officials have visited high-risk communities to educate them on disaster preparedness, and have been vigilant in controlling tropical diseases. They have also organized violence and injury-prevention programs.

Hataman said that his administration has addressed the concerns of all sectors from agrarian reform beneficiaries to education and scholarship opportunities, creating livelihoods, setting up cooperatives and providing better opportunities for women.

President Benigno Aquino 3rd himself lauded the present ARMM administration for supporting the “Daang Matuwid” by combating corruption and improving its services to the people.

This year, the ARMM made history when it passed the national government’s Good Governance Condition for integrity, transparency, and productivity, thanks to Hataman’s strategic development plans.

‘Breaking barriers’

To celebrate its 26th anniversary on November 19 in Cotabato City, the ARMM will conduct activities that promote peace and harmony. The series of activities has been dubbed “Breaking Barriers Journey Through Bangsamoro Culture and History Towards Peace and Development.”

From November 6 to 8, the ARMM will honor the Sheikh Makhdum Mosque in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, which is the cradle of Islam in the Philippines. The mosque was declared as a National Historical Landmark.

On November 11, the region will hold the Master Chieftain Competition, a culinary contest among tribal chieftains and chefs who will present their respective indigenous cuisines at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex.

On November 18, cultural street dancing will be held to showcase the region’s cultural diversity through ethnic dances along Gov. Gutierrez Avenue while the 10th People’s Day celebration will also offer free health services.

The Morolympics, highlighting Muslim sports, will be held at the ORG [Office of the Regional Governor] Compound in Cotabato City, while the “Handog Pasasalamat,” a thanksgiving concert, will be staged at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex.

Hataman has also calendared some activities aimed at raising people’s awareness on peace, as an individual and collective responsibility.

On November 19, the ARRM will celebrate its 26th anniversary as an independent region at the ORG Complex. Folk artists Coritha and Asin will be the guest artists.

Come November 29, there will be a Peace Parade and Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration. MWOP volunteers, peace advocates and various groups will support non-violent means to end conflict in Mindanao. Participants are batting for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as a legal option to peace in Mindanao.

On November 30, they will hold a “Bike for Peace,” enjoining cyclists to travel from Cotabato City to Datu Saudi-Ampatuan in Maguindanao.

From November 30 to December 4, the region will hold a weaving competition, highlighting the exotic weaving traditions of various tribes in the region.

These activities are aimed at showing the rest of the country that the ARMM’s efforts are geared toward positive change.

The ARMM administration recently hosted the Democratic Peace Institute during which an international group of experts looked into the deep-seated reasons for conflicts and offered peaceful exchanges to solve them.

Ultimately, these endeavors are focused on establishing true peace between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front through the passage of the BBL as a solution to conflict and underdevelopment in some parts of Muslim Mindanao.

The ARMM is the Philippines’ only chartered territory, which has a regional administration composed of executive and legislative branches.

ARMM to improve, preserve 126-year-old Spanish bridge to ease traffic in Lanao

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=824278
• Saturday, November 7, 2015

(PNA), JBP/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 7 (PNA) -- To ease traffic flow of people and goods in Lanao del Sur's adjoining 11 municipalities, the Department of Public Works and Highways in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DPWH-ARMM) is set to rehabilitate a historic bridge, public works officials on Saturday said.

Located in Barangay Piangolugan in Marogong town, Lanao del Sur, the 90-meter bridge was constructed in 1889 by the Spaniards, earning it the moniker "Spanish Bridge." It was built purposely to make the Maranao strongholds accessible to Spanish fighters who tried, but failed, to conquer the people of Lanao.

On top of its historical value, the 126-year-old bridge also holds great economic importance in the area, according to Engr. Abib A. Arumpac.

Arumpac, chief of Lanao del Sur’s 2nd district engineering office, said the bridge will serve 11 towns in the province that include the towns of Marogong, Malabang, Calanogas, Balabagan, Kapatagan, Picong, Butig, Lumbayanague, Sultan Dumalondong, Lumbaca-Unayan, Binidayan and Bayang.

He said the DPWH-ARMM has earmarked PHP100 million from its PHP10-billion infrastructure program fund for 2016 to support the bridge’s rehabilitation and the construction of a new reroute bridge in the area.

Arumpac said the Spanish Bridge can only handle a limited load capacity due to its structural limitations and a reroute bridge has to be built to cater to large vehicles. Once a re-route bridge is constructed and completed, the Spanish bridge can still be used by light vehicles, he added.

Engr. Don Mustapha Loong, secretary of DPWH-ARMM, said the project will provide people better road access and will boost the promotion of trade and tourism in the area.

He said once the project is completed “the people in Lanao, commuters from Parang, Maguindanao to Marawi City, Iligan City and vice-versa would have a safer and faster land travel." The economic activities and mobility of goods and services in the province will also be improved.

ARMM offers duty-free importation incentives for regional investors

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=3&rid=824156
• Friday, November 6, 2015

(PNA), LAP/PGL/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 6 (PNA) -- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is offering duty-free importation of identified materials and equipment following the signing of a Joint Memorandum of Agreement (JMOA) between the Regional Economic Zone Authority (REZA)-ARMM and the Bureau of Customs in this city, Friday.

With the agreement, investors can now enjoy an unprecedented duty free importation of items identified in the agreement.

The JMO will allow REZA locators or those investors registered under the region’s board of investments (RBOI-ARMM) and other economic investors to enjoy duty-free importation of capital equipment, breeding stocks, generic materials, import construction materials, and office equipment.

"They will also be entitled to avail of other incentives from local taxation in close coordination with the local government units concerned," ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said.

Hataman, Commissioner Alberto Lina, REZA-ARMM Executive Director Eshan Mabang, other ARMM officials and some BoC district collectors attended the signing.

“The signing of the JMO is a historical breakthrough in the Moro people’s experience and economic independence,” Mabang said.

He said the JMO will create a big impact in both the economic and labor aspect of the ARMM for it “is envisioned to create employment opportunity leading to improved human resource development index.”

“It is also seen to generate micro and even macro-economic benefits, attract domestic and foreign investors, and will promote e-commerce,” he added.

Mabang said the REZA will establish the Joint-REZA Customs Office (JRCO) that will be used by both agencies to perform organizational functions, including joint conduct of inspection and clearance area.

The REZA-ARMM is “mandated to oversee the integration, coordination, planning and monitoring of special economic zones, industrial estate/parks, export processing zones and other economic zones in the region.”

Under the JMO, the REZA will accredit, issue and approve the documentary requirements of investors in the region and the BoC, on the other hand, shall be in-charge of the approval, activation and validation of client profile registration system in line with Customs Memorandum Order 39-2008.

Moreover, the BoC will set-up the electronic-to-mobile system (e2m) for effective and efficient exportation and importation transactions and help curb possible frauds in the agency.

The e2m system will “streamline imports and exports processing and improve trade facilitation among BOC, other government agencies and its stakeholders anywhere, anytime through Internet-based and wireless technologies.“

Meanwhile, Governor Hataman and Commissioner Lina lauded the REZA-ARMM for the milestone it has accomplished.

Hataman urged the BoC and other investors to help boost ARMM’s economy. The JMO, he said, is a manifestation of good governance in the region.

For his part, Lina said the cooperation between the BoC and the ARMM government will contribute to progress and prosperity in the region.

DPWH-ARMM vows to finish PHP10B infra projects by 2016

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=823389
• Thursday, November 5, 2015

(PNA), JMC/NYP

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 5 (PNA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DPWH-ARMM) has guaranteed the timely completion of infrastructure projects across the region with prudent fiscal management and policy of transparency and accountability.

The agency has improved its budget from PHP1 billion in 2012 to PHP10 billion this year.

Engr. Don Mustapha Loong, DPWH-ARMM secretary, said his office has enforced, for the first time in the region’s 25-year history, an open and competitive bidding and procurement process in line with RA 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.

The office is eyeing to pave a total of 1,031.285 kilometers of roads in the region by next year.

As of last month, DPWH–ARMM has concreted 348.471 kilometers of roads, while another 562.272 kilometers are still up for completion.

As the agency marked its 25th anniversary on Wednesday, ARMM Vice Gov. Haroun Al-Rashid Lucman lauded the agency for a great improvement in the delivery of basic government services in the region through well-timed accomplishment of infrastructure projects.

UN, ARMM agency train humanitarian workers on gender response

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=823099
• Wednesday, November 4, 2015

(PNA), FPV/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Nov. 4 (PNA) -- To equip humanitarian workers of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) with knowledge and skills in responding to humanitarian situation, the Commission on Bangsamoro Women (RCBW-ARMM) conducted a four day training workshop for gender focal persons from different ARMM agencies and humanitarian workers in Davao City, officials said Wednesday.

According to Sittie Jehanne Mutin, RCBW-ARMM chairperson, the workshop, which ended today, was conducted in partnership with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA).

It was aimed at ‘genderizing’ humanitarian action during emergencies, such as disaster or crisis, to ensure that women’s needs are properly addressed.

Gender sensitive approach in disaster risk management is vital in safeguarding the distinct needs of men, women, as well as boys and girls during humanitarian response activities, Mutin stressed.

Rowena Dacsig, gender and focal point person of UN-OCHA, one of the workshop's objective was to engage and equip government counterparts on gender equality programming during emergencies for focus targeting, specifically to build confidence and competence in the teams that support humanitarian action.

It also aims at imparting knowledge on the concepts of gender mainstreaming.

As one of the agencies of the United Nations, OCHA is responsible for bringing together humanitarian actors to ensure coherent response during emergencies. It has been complementing the Philippine government’s response to disaster and engaging humanitarian coordination since 2007.

Dacsig said education and advocacy with local government officials and community leaders are also important in order to fully involve not only men but also women and marginalized groups in disaster management activities and decision-making.

ARMM, through its Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC), has been implementing disaster preparedness, mitigation and adaptation measures to reduce risks and widespread destruction in times of calamities.

RDRRMC-ARMM is composed of different line agencies operating in the region. The ARMM Humanitarian and Emergency Action Response Team (HEART) serves as its rapid response mechanism and nerve center.

Several areas in ARMM are disaster-prone, both natural and man-made, thus preparedness is crucial to help mitigate the impact of disasters.

Dacsig said participants should have increased their understanding on the dynamics of gender equality and sensitivity using gender responsive programming and that these would be applied in their respective areas of work.

The region, which is geographically broken, has been vulnerable to calamities, both man-made and natural and disaster response is among the priorities of Regional Gov. Mujiv Hataman.

PNP-ARMM to host sports for peace with stakeholders

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=822642
• Tuesday, November 3, 2015

(PNA), FPV/NYP/EOF

CAMP SK PENDATUN, Maguindanao, Nov. 3 (PNA) -- Police officials in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will gather its officers and men to engage in sports activities with stakeholders of peace this month, a police official on Tuesday said.

Chief Supt. Ronald R. Estilles, police regional director, said the PNP-ARMM officers and personnel will play golf, badminton, volleyball and law tennis with the personnel from the Armed Forces, local government units and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in a friendly competition.

"Our aim is to help maintain peace and order in the region by playing non-contact sports with all peace stakeholders," Estilles said in a statement.

The “Sports for Peace” will run from November 12-16, 2015 at Camp Brigadier General Salipada K Pendatun, Parang, Maguindanao.

Estilles said this program basically aims to promote sportsmanship camaraderie with the AFP, LGU/CSO of Sultan Kudarat and Parang Municipalities, MILF and other stakeholders of peace within the area of ARMM.

ARMM is composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Estilles said the participation of the MILF will show that former protagonists have shifted the battle ground to sports ground where no blood shed takes place but only physical development of participants.

He explained that it being a sports for peace, non contact games will be played.

Basic literacy rate in ARMM shows improvement

• Source: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1521445993432/basic-literacy-rate-in-armm-shows-improvement
• Monday, November 2, 2015

(BPI/APB/PIA-10)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) --- The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) registered a significant increase in its basic literacy rate to 86.1 percent in 2013 from 81.5 percent in 2008. This was based on the 2013 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Basic literacy is used for the “initial learning of reading and writing, which adults who have never been to school need to go through.” The region’s functional literacy rate also increased to 72.1 percent in 2013 from 71.6 percent in 2008.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization defines functional literacy as the person’s ability to “engage in activities in which literacy is required for effective functioning of his group and community and also for enabling him to continue to use reading, writing and calculation for his own and the community’s development.”

FLEMMS is a nationwide survey that presents comprehensive statistics on the latest status of literacy, education, and mass media exposure of Filipinos. It “brings together a wide range of information that serves as a guide for government policy makers, program planners, and decision makers in providing a much broader scope of action and more focused program intervention on the target beneficiaries of development plans.”

Marjuni Maddi, Department of Education in ARMM assistant secretary for academics, said the increase was associated to efforts of the agency in solving literacy-related problems.

DepEd-ARMM is currently implementing ‘Abot-Alam,’ a national program that aims at relocating “the out-of-school youth (OSY) nationwide who are 15 to 30 years old and who have not completed basic/higher education or who are unemployed, and to mobilize and harmonize programs, which will address these OSYs’ needs and aspirations.”

Furthermore, the agency is also engaged in other interventions such as the Alterative Delivery Mode (ADM), a joint program with Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao-ARMM. ADM is being implemented by BRAC Philippines.

The program established learning centers in poor, conflict-affected, and disadvantaged communities in the region to give out-of-school children access to basic education. It provides catch-up opportunities for young children in remote and deprived communities of the region where regular public education is not easily accessible.

The project already built 1,220 learning centers across ARMM including seven floating learning centers in coastal areas in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. These learning centers cater to 38,084 students from kindergarten to Grades 1 to 3.

Maddi encouraged everyone to take part in promoting the importance of education. “Education is everybody’s business. We should not leave it to our teachers,” he said. The 2013 FLEMMS survey covered about 26,000 sample households in 1,600 barangays in the country. About 1,200 sample households were taken from ARMM.

Undas' celebrations generally peaceful - PNP

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&nid=1&rid=822114
• Sunday, November 1, 2015

(PNA), CTB/PFN/CLTC

MANILA, Nov. 1 (PNA) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP), in its initial assessment of the All Saints' Day, announced that no untoward incident was recorded in the observation of the annual holiday.

This was disclosed by Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor, PNP-Public Information Office (PIO) Chief on Sunday.

"Things are generally peaceful. The only crime incident so far recorded in PRO ARMM recovery of IED," Mayor told Philippines News Agency in phone interview.

The improvised explosive devise was ound in a cemetery in Jolo, Sulu.

But despite this, Mayor added that the PNP will continue in its task of securing the cemeteries nationwide.

The PNP established a total of 5,407 Assistance Hubs nationwide manned by 39,758 PNP Personnel tasked to ensure the peaceful and orderly observance of All Saints’ and Soul’s Day 2015

In Metro Manila, Police Inspector Kimberly Molitas, chief of Public Information Office of NCRPO, said that as now no untoward incident report as roving police officers continues to be in common sight within the public and private cemeteries in the Metro Manila.

All five districts namely QCPD, SPD, NPD, MPD and EPD reported no untoward incident in their area of responsibility during the occassion” Molitas told the PNA.

Meanwhile, the estimated crowd in Manila North Cemetery is 1.8 million while 32,000 in South Cemetery.