WOMAN MODEL

WOMAN MODEL --- The Police Regional Office XII under the command of Chief Superintendent Cedric Train (left) gave recognition to Cotabato City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi as one of the exemplary women who has influenced in bringing changes to people. As a leader with strong political will and determination, the lady mayor has introduced and implemented innovative programs, to mention  theinstitutionalization of the joint “ronda” with the local police and the strict observance of curfew for minors.In  celebration of the International Women's Day, Mayor Cynthia was invited by the PRO XII last March 8 to be their guest speaker and be awarded for being a best example of an empowered woman. Her efforts in curbing the crime rate and maintaining peace and order in Cotabato City are considered phenomenal for other cities and municipalities in the region  to replicate the same. (PHOTO BY COTABATO CITY GOVERNMENT – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

POWER TO WOMEN

POWER TO WOMEN --- The City Government of Cotabato partners with different women’s organizations, national government offices, and civil society organizations in celebrating the 2017 National  Women’s Month on opening rites held last March 8 at the city plaza. (PHOTO BY CHERIBIN MENA K. VITORIA, OSWDS – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

Rabies-free region for ARMM in 3 years

RABIES - - -The ARMM government, through its Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and different partner agencies, conducted a Rabies Awareness Month celebration on Wednesday, March 8 in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Students at Broce Central Elementary School of Peace and the community in Broce participated in the activity. Veterinarian Cathy Moira of Bureau of Animal Industry gave lectures to raise awareness on rabies, and to call on Filipinos to prevent rabies through responsible pet ownership and mass vaccination.

Several officials delivered message and vowed to support the rabies awareness campaign.

Mass vaccination of pet dogs and cats was also held in the afternoon. The celebration of the Rabies Awareness Month is conducted by virtue of Executive Order No. 84, series of 1999. (BUREAU OF PUBLIC INFORMATION – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY ---Within three years, officials expect the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to be rabies-free in line with the campaign to make the Philippines rabies-free by 2020.

ARMM officials on Friday last week commenced a massive campaign to eradicate rabies in the region's five provinces through the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF-ARMM) and partner agencies.

Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease of dogs and other domesticated animals, which is transmissible to humans through the pets' saliva.

The achievement of rabies-free Philippines by 2020 is the country’s goal to support the government’s drive of eliminating rabies-caused human deaths by 2030.

To actively participate in the nation-wide campaign, the DAF-ARMM will conduct series of rabies awareness program in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanaodel Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi.

The first recipients of the information dissemination were students of Broce Central Elementary School of Peace and the community in Broce, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Dr.NorodinKuit, ARMM’s regional anti-rabies coordinator, said the outreach program was aimed at raising awareness on rabies and to call on residents to prevent such disease through responsible pet ownership.

The program included mass vaccination of domesticated animals, especially dogs.

Locals and pet owners welcomed the move by the DAF-ARMM. Among them was Myrna Jacolon, 33, who owns a cat and three dog pets.

She said attending such program was educational and the immunization of her pets against rabies means protecting her pets, her family, and the community she lives in from danger.

"It is better to have our pets vaccinated than we treat ourselves from dog bites," she said.

Veterinarian Cathy Moira of the Bureau of Animal Industry cited statistics why dog vaccination should not be ignored by anyone.

"For every 10 minutes, someone dies of rabies world-wide. Most affected are children four to 15 years old," she said.

In the country, at least 1,100 Filipinos experience animal bites every day, and there were around 230 deaths in 2015 and 180 deaths in January to September 2016.

Moira advised anyone who is bitten by animals to immediately wash the wound with soap or detergent using running water, disinfect the wound with alcohol, consult a doctor, and seek the nearest bite center in the locality for medical attention.

Moira said that as of 2016, there are around 480 Animal Bite Treatment Centers in the country.

In Maguindanao, the animal bite center is housed at the Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in the town of ShariffAguak.

Aside from the outreach program, the DAF-ARMM also conducted free vaccination of pets, especially dogs, at the DAF-ARMM compound in Cotabato City.

Kuit said in an interview that having responsible pet owners would significantly help in preventing rabies.

The veterinarian also advised pet owners to have their animals vaccinated at age three and every year thereafter.

Kuit also advised pet owners to ensure they have proper nutrition.

Pet dogs should not be allowed to roam freely on the streets because they may acquire rabies when they mingle with street dogs. (PNA– Cotabato/MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

AID

AID --- The Municipal Government of Shariff Aguak headed by Mayor Engr. Marop B. Ampatuan(2^nd from left) and Vice Mayor Datu Akmad Mitra Ampatuan (2^nd from right) donated assistive devices to Persons with Disabilities of the town. The project is in coordination with the Municipal Social Welfare Office.(SHARIFF AGUAK MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)   

BIRTHING CLINIC

BIRTHING CLINIC --- Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process  Undersecretary for Peace and Development Diosita “Jojo” Andotturned over last March 10 a birthing clinic for the local government of Datu Saudi Ampatuanin Maguindanao. Costing P1.5million, the clinic, which includes equipment and facilities, was received by Mayor BaiAnida A. Dimaukom (left). The establishment of the facility is a joint effort of the OPAPP, Datu Saudi Ampatuan municipal government, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.(MARLON PETER DEDUMO, OPAPP – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

OPAPP turns over Women and Children Protection Center

FACILITY --- Undersecretary for Peace and Development Diosita “Jojo” Andot (3^rd from right) turned over last March 9 the Women and Children Protection Center to the Municipal Police Station in Datu Odin Sinsuat. With her are PNP personnel and DSWD-ARMM Women's Welfare Program Specialist Ma. VioletaJennylyn S. Yap.(GILMHAR A. LAO - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao --- The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) turned over last March 9 a Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) to the Philippine National Police station in this town.

Undersecretaryfor Peace and DevelopmentDiosita“Jojo” Andot said the projectis an initiative of the OPAPP in aid to the government’s peace and security efforts in this part of the country.

The facility, which is a one-storey 10 x 6center and costs around P300,000, is located adjacent the Municipal Police Station for the holding of minor female suspects. One was already collared and has to be detained temporarily in a police station in the absence of the just turned over protection center.

Chief InspectorLendseySinsuat, former Datu Odin Sinsuat police chief, said they are happy that the OPAPP responded on the establishment of the facility.

“The female suspect was eight months pregnant during the time we brought her to ShariffAguakMunicipal Police Office because we don’t have women and children center facility here. Luckily, they have it and that is why we are very grateful on this effort of the OPAPP,” he said.

Chief Inspecftor Ali Bunga, Datu Odin Sinsuatpolice chief, said they are lucky to be a beneficiary of the facility.“Rest assured we will operate sit for the welfare of women and children.”

Ma.VioletaJennylyn S. Yap, Women's Welfare Program specialist of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the autonomous region andwho was one of the guests during the event, lauded the effort of the OPAPP and the local PNP.

“This endeavour is timely as we include women’s issues and concerns in the development agenda of the government. This facility will ensure that the rights of women are protected. Indeed, we must live up with the theme for this year’s celebration, ‘We Make Change Work for Women,’” said Yap.

Yap said they continue with the advocacy of fostering an environment that would enables women to pursue their passion and be able to meaningfully engage in whatever endeavor they hope to achieve.

“There is no better way to women's empowerment and gender equality than the full implementation of the Magna Carta of Women down to the barangay level. We have to make women’s rights real in the lives of women and girls. Cases of violence againstwomen should stop. Women’s voices, their experiences and perspectives, must be heard,” said Yap.

Yap reiterated we must commit to the full implementation of the Magna Carta of Women and all women-related laws.(GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

SP endorses activation of Task Force Kutawato

SP endorses activation of Task Force Kutawato

COTABATO CITY --- The SangguniangPanlungsod (SP) of this city government is determined to strengthen peace and order with the endorsement of Resolution No. 6124, Series of 2017, or the organization and activation of “Task Force Kutawato.”

CouncilorAbdillah Lim, who endorsed the SP resolution, said the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) has unanimously adopted and approved the proposed organization and activation of the task force.

Lim said the proposed task force shall be composed of elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), specifically the 5th Special Forces (SF) Battalion, and the Cotabato City Police Office (CCPO) which are tasked to maintain law and order, public safety, and law enforcement within the territorial jurisdiction.

“With the distinctive topographic characteristics of our city, composed of dozens of islets and criss-crossed by numerous waterways, neither the AFP nor the PNP operating separately could ensure the security of the area. In addition, with the steady growing population and economic activities, there is an imperative necessity to unify and combine the resources and capability of both law enforcers through the organization of a joint task force so they could effectively perform primary duties and responsibilities and ensure the safety and security of our populace,” said Lim.

Lim revealed they would task Lt. Col. Nasser Lidasan of the Philippine Army’s SF to be the commander of Task Force Kutawato.

“Copies of this resolution approved by the body last February 14, 2017 have been furnished to the following for their appropriate action; President Duterte, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Ismael D. Sueno, Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo M. Año, Police Director General Ronald M. Dela Rosa, Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen.Glorioso V. Miranda, 6th Infantry Division Commanding General Brig. Gen.Arnel B. dela Vega, and PNP PRO XII Regional Director Chief SuperintendentCedrick G. Train,” said Lim.

Meanwhile, the SP also endorsed the request of Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi to the 6th ID to organize and develop a Special Civilian Active Auxiliary (SCAA).

“We cannot deny the fact that our city is presently growing, both in terms of economic development and population density. In parallel to this growth is the possible rise in criminality and security threats which could not be discounted or underestimated,” he said.

Though there is the CCPO, he added, that is tasked to maintain law and order in the city, aside from the presence of a battalion-less size of Philippine Army SF elements, these combined strength of law enforcers and soldiers are still not enough to ensure the safety and security of the city against lawless elements.

“The unique topography of the city necessitates the need for a sizeable number of law enforcement and security forces. Therefore, it is only a must to organize and develop the SCAA to serve as augmentation force of the PNP in the urban and commercial centers,” said Lim.(GILMHAR A. LAO - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

Sultan Sa Barongis settles family feuds

SETTLEMENT --- Mayor RamdatuAngas (center) hopes to settle the conflict of warring families to sustain peace and order for the benefit of the populace. With him are Vice Mayor Al-Fizzar M. Angas (left) and 40th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Edgar L. Catu. (Gilmhar A. Lao - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

SULTAN SA BARONGIS --- This local government unit under the guidance of Mayor RamdatuAngas has mediated for the settlement of a long standing conflict betweenthe families of AntolinMindalandHadjiPiangGuiamadil.

In a meeting last March 6 held at the ABC Hall buildingin PoblacionBarurao with the presence of municipal and barangay officials, representatives from both families, the Philippine National Police, and the Philippine Army, Mayor Angas said the warringfamilies whose members are residing in Sultan Sa Barongis have been involved in recurring fighting encounters in the area.

“It has affected mostly our local residents who are just longing to maintain peace and order here,” said the mayor.

Through the years, Mayor Angas said the LGU has been actively involved inaddressing domestic peace and security issues through dialogues and peaceful means.

“We hope that both sides would agree to settle the dispute as we go further with the talks with the support of government troops and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” said Mayor Angas.

Lt. Col. Edgar L. Catu, commander of the 40th Infantry Battalion, said the two parties should finally putan end to their dispute or else “the Army would be forced to take full action to stop the conflicts.”

"When there are conflicts like this, the directly affected are the innocent civilians. We will stand by all means to protect the welfare of these civilians who become helpless victims. In this regard, we would like to encourageboth sides to finally settle their conflicts,” said Catu.

Angas lauded the participation of Lt. Col. Catu, who, he said, is very committed to stabilize peace and order in Sultan SaBarongis. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DOH-ARMM condemns murder of barrio doctor

JUSTICE --- DOH-ARMM Secretary Kadil M. Sinolinding, Jr. (seated right) met the journalists to openly condemn the senseless killing of Dr.DreyfussPerlasas they seek speedy resolution to the case. With him is Chief Administrative OfficerDr.Tato M. Usman.  (BENJAMIL U. TIBUMBO- MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --- Officials and workers of the Department of Health (DOH) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOH-ARMM)strongly condemned the killing of a government doctor in Kapatagan, LanaodelNorte the other week.

ARMM health workers wore black armbands as sign of the agency’s protest to the death of Dr. DreyfussPerlas.

Perlas, who was a physician deployed under the Doctors to the Barrios program, was shot dead by an unknown gunman in Kapatagan while riding his motorcycle. He was heading  home from a medical mission in a neighboring town when he was gunned down.

In a statement, DOH-ARMM Secretary Kadil”Jojo” M. Sinolinding, Jr. urged the provincial government of LanaodelNorteto give swift action on the murder of Dr.Perlas.

“This incident sends a straight message to all health professionals that no one is safe around. With so many problems that we encounter nowadays, we always wish and pray that the workers of the health department shall be spared,” said Dr. Sinolinding.

However, Dr. .Sinolinding said it is not true anymore, hence, appealing to authorities,straight to President Duterte, that they cannot accept promises, except on the resolve of the case.

“Justice for Dr. Perlas is justice to all victims of senseless killings,” he said.

Further, Dr. Sinolinding also appealed to the local government units to protect the doctors and health workers. “We should help our health workers so they can serve the communities better.”

Dr. Dreyfuss “Toto” Perlas of Sapad municipality was driving through Barangay Maranding Annex in Kapatagan on his way to Lala town around 7:30 p.m. when he was shot.

Perlas died at the LanaodelNorte Provincial Hospital in nearby Baroy town from a single bullet that pierced into his heart after it hit him in the left side of his back.

Dr. .Anjuli May Jaen, president of Batch 30 of the Doctors to the Barrios (DTTB) program to which Perlas belonged, said he had been receiving threats from unknown individuals but did not elaborate.

Perlas, 31, the eldest of two siblings, was a native of Batan town in Aklan province. He was a biology graduate of the University of the Philippines in Los Baños in 2007 and earned his medical degree from the West Visayas State University in Iloilo City in 2011.

As a scholar of the Department of Health, he was required to render two years of government service. He volunteered in the DTTB program, which was initiated by the late Senator and Health Secretary Juan Flavier in the 1990s.

In addition, Perlas was assigned to Sapad from 2012 to 2014 and was known for travelling solo to remote villages to conduct medical check-ups. He opted to remain in the town, which had no municipal health officer for 12 years, after his stint. He served the community, the people, with both honour and pride.

Other DTTB volunteers also praised Perlas for his decision to remain in Sapad.Dr. Jordan Pinzon, who was assigned in Salvador town near Sapad, said Perlas was well known in the community.

Pinzon said Perlas would personally fetch mothers and their newborn babies from the hinterlands to take them to the health center.

“There were some cases he paid for the ambulance and other hospital fees that patients could not afford,” said Pinzon.(GILMHAR A. LAO - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

Pagalungan LGU observes women’s month celebration

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT --- The local government ofPagalungan enjoins stakeholders to participate in activities related to the Women’s Month celebration. (PHOTO BY PAGALUNGAN MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

PAGALUNGAN, Maguindanao --- The local government of this town is one with the nation in observing the Women's Month celebration with the theme, “We Make Change Work for Women.”

Mayor Salik P. Mamasabulod said the celebration started with a kick-off parade  last March 8and was spearheaded by the Gender and Development (GAD) section in partnership with the Philippine National Police, Department of Education, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, Rural Health Unit of Pagalungan, barangay officials,and other government line-agencies.

Mamasabulod said the upcoming lined up of activities on Women’s Month include inter-agency volleyball games for women.

“During the culmination program (March 16), there will be mass education for women carrying the theme: “BabaengModerno, BabaengProgresibo.” We would like to invite everyone to join the activity.Our resource speakers would be coming from the PNP and the DSWD,” said Mamasabulod.

Mamasabulod said PO2 Laarni Palma from the PNP will tackle “Violence against Women and Children” as well as “Women’s Peace and Security.”

Ma.VioletaJennylyn Yap of the DSWD is going to discuss “Sex and Gender and Women’s Rights.”

The mayor said they will be conducting the Search for Ms. "Sigay nu Pagalungan" (Light ofPagalungan) where contestants will compete in casual wear, Muslim dress, and the question and answer portion.

“We have also preparedgames for our women such asvideoke challenge and parlor games,” he said. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

ARMM, Moro leaders grieve death of Simeon Datumanong

Officials and employees of the ARMM government led by Governor MujivHataman (in black shirt) join the burial rites for former Maguindanao Rep. Simeon Datumanong in ShariffAguak on Wednesday, March 1, 2017. Datumanong, also a former DPWH secretary, died on Feburary 28 at the Philippine Heart Center due to cardiac arrest. (OMAR MANGORSI / BUREAU OF PUBLIC INFORMATION – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --- Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and in Maguindanao grieved on the demise of Representative Simeon AmpatuanDatumanong last Wednesday, who is considered a great Muslim leader. He was 81 years old.

Regional Governor MujivHataman said the entire ARMM leadership grieved with the family of Datumanong, who he described as an honest politician, great statesman, public servant and lawmaker.

"The whole Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has lost a great leader. Hon. Simeon Datumanong embodied the high ideals of an honest politician, a patriot who believed in the Bangsamoro cause to which he devoted his life," Hataman said in a statement.

"He will forever stay in the hearts of the people of the ARMM in general and Maguindanao in particular as a deeply respected and loved leader. He will be missed not only by his constituents but also by the august halls of Congress, and the various offices he served with distinction and respect," Hataman added.

The regional governor said, "On a personal note, being part of the family, I extend my deepest sympathy and utmost support to all members of the clan in this mournful hour, as I wish them strength and courage on the loss of a revered patriarch," Hataman said.

Mayor ZamsaminAmpatuan of Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao first broke the news of Datumanong's death at about 9:45 Tuesday. Ampatuan is one of Datumanong's relatives in government service.

Ampatuan said the Muslim leader was confined in the Philippine Heart Center for about two weeks before he passed away due to cardiac arrest at 9:25 p.m.

"He (Rep. Datumanong) will be laid to his final resting place at Maganoy (Poblacion Sharif Aguak, Maguindanao), at about 2 p.m. today," Mayor Ampatuan said on his FB page.

"We will miss him so much as an epitome of good leadership, calm, simple and effective. For me, he is an elder who is my idol. Kaka Sim, May Allah bless your soul," the mayor of Raja Buayan said.

Rep. Bai Sandra Sema of Maguindanao's first congressional district and Datumanong'srelative, was also saddened by his demise.

"Tonight, we've lost a great leader. One who has served well his people. Who has inspired many to strive for their dreams and succeed. His track record is very hard to duplicate," Rep. Sema said late Tuesday.

"Thank you for inspiring me to reach my dream of becoming a congresswoman. Thank you for mentoring me when I was a neophyte legislator. Thank you for the example of being humble, patient and competent public servant," she added.

Datumanong was born on June 17, 1935 in ShariffAguak (formerly Maganoy) in Maguindanao. He is Moro politician and one of the recipients in 1974 TOYM Awardees for Public Administration.

Known among Moro people as "BapaSim," he was married to Sigrid de Guzman with whom he had four children named BorgivaTasmi, MerinisaAnisalam, Soraya Julie, and Rahma Anna Liza. He has 13 grandchildren.

He finished his elementary education at the Cotabato Elementary School (1951) and secondary education at the Cotabato High School (1955). He obtained his Bachelor of Laws at the University of the Philippines (1959).

He was a representative of the 2nd District of Maguindanao from 1992 to 2001. In 2001, he was appointed by then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as the Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

In 2003, he served as Secretary of Justice until he resigned in the same year. He was re-elected to the House of Representatives in 2007.

The late Datumanong also served as: Member, Board United Coconut Planters Bank (1986-1992); Member, Board Philippine Amanah Bank (1985-1986, Representative BatasangPambansa (1984-1986); Minister of Muslim Affairs and Cultural Committees (1984-1986); Chairperson Executive Council of Autonomous Region XII (1980-1984).

He was also served as member of the Board of Regents Mindanao State University; University of Southern Mindanao (1980-1984); Regional assemblyman, Autonomous Regional Government of Western Mindanao (1979-1984); Regional commissioner, Region XII (1975-1979); Provincial governor, Maguindanao (1973-1975); Provincial governor, Cotabato (1968-1971); Provincial board member Cotabato (1963-1967);Co-chairperson Provisional government in Southern Philippines, 1977; Member, Philippine negotiation panel for the Tripoli Agreement 1976; Provincial vice governor, Cotabato 1967.

His awards and recognition include TOYM awardee recipient, Community Service Award from the University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA); Three-time citation, Kagitingan Award by the Philippine Constabulary, Philippine Army, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (PNA – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

TRANSPARENCY

TRANSPARENCY ---City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia J. Guiani-Sayadi sits with the government's department heads during the exit conference with the Commission on Audit, headed by Regional Director Virginia Datukon.Mayor Guiani-Sayadi is always hands on when it comes to the city's budget and ensures the soundness and accuracy of the utilization of funds of the city government. (COURTESY OF CITY GOVERNMENT OF COTABATO – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

HALAL

HALAL ---Members of the ARMM's Halal Industry Development Technical Working Group (HID TWG) convened on Friday, March 3 to deliberate and discuss the project proposal 'Joint Halal Production and Promotion Project. The meeting was held at the Science and Technology-ARMM Conference Room in Cotabato City.The said project was proposed by Dr. NorodinKuit (right), Agriculture and Fisheries-ARMM focal person on HID TWG. The project was aimed at ensuring sustainable supply of halal compliant meat in the region by increasing halal meat production, and by providing halal, affordable, nutritious and healthy food in the region.Halal is an Arabic word meaning permissible based on Islamic Sharia law and the term can cover both goods – such as foods, drinks, medicines, clothing and cosmetics – and services as well as places. (BUREAU OF PUBLIC INFORMATION – ARMM / MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

CHAMPION

CHAMPION --- FUTSAL players from different schools in the city visited recently Vice Mayor Graham Nazer G. Dumamaand shared their award to Cotabateños. Coach MoraimaKanebpalsaid the team shall once again undergo intensive training in preparation to compete on the upcoming PalarongPambansa. (COURTESY OF COTABATO CITY GOVERNMENT – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

Multi-million worth of investments

SEAL THE DEAL --- City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia J. Guiani-Sayadi shares traditional toast with the Chinese investors during a meeting in Manila. This signifies the beginning of a compact and fruitful relationship between the Shanghai Construction Group Company and the City Government of Cotabato. (COURTESY OF COTABATO CITY GOVERNMENT – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --- This city is seemingly one of the cities that benefit from the blossoming relationship between the Philippine government and the People's Republic of China.

Chinese investors have been in constant communication recently with City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia J. Guiani-Sayadi, soliciting information regarding the development thrusts of the city.

Last February, 3 companies from China went to the city to erect samples of solar and wind powered street lamps. In adherence to the city government's aim to make Cotabato City an eco-friendly city, an estimated 4000 environment-friendly streetlamps will be erected in the main and sub streets of the city.

City Mayor Guiani-Sayadi, together with her technical team, is now studying each of the three companies' profile.

Last week, executives from the Shanghai Construction Group Co., the leading construction company in China, had a meeting with City Mayor Guiani-Sayadi in Manila. The company is interested in investing on low to mid cost housing. They are planning to partner with the city government in establishing houses for resettlement purposes and also for the government employees village, a project of the city LGU.

Together with her technical team, City Planning and Development Coordinator Engr. Adela Fiesta, CENRO Engr. Crisanto Saavedra, and Engr. Domingo Guariño, Jr., one of the city government's consultants, the mayor has presented several other projects including the establishment of the city airport and seaport, and the proposed special economic zone for Cotabato City.

Guiani-Sayadi said SCG is interested in partnering with the city government in all these projects but they are most interested in the housing project. After the meeting, the city's technical team immediately formulated a plan of action so they will be able to finish their proposal the soonest possible time.

"Our meeting has ended with the commitment of the Shanghai Construction Group to help the city in implementing these major infrastructure projects and once finish, and I am positive that we will, then I can say that Cotabato City has truly achieved all its goals", Mayor Guiani-Sayadi said.

Within the next few weeks, when the proposal is finished, the lady mayor shall once again meet with the Chinese investors to "seal the deal".

"We are looking at entering into a private-public partnership or PPP. It will depend on the agreement between the parties and the counterpart of each. But I am sure that the city government can comply", the mayor further added.

The Shanghai Construction Group Co. has already built hundreds of various infrastructure projects not just in China but in countries such as Russia, the USA, Egypt, Cambodia and many others. The company is the one that built the Shanghai Tower and the Guangzhou TV Tower, two of the tallest towers in the world. They have also built power plants, airports, recreational facilities, and landmarks. With a history of over 60 years, it is generating up to Chinese RMB 114 billion or more than USD 16 billion every year.

The city mayor was able to engage this company with the help of her family and friends in China, as her roots can be traced in Xiamen, like many of the Chinese descents here in the Philippines.

The better peace and order situation experienced by Cotabato City right now has also brought back the confidence of companies to invest here. Both local and foreign investors are interested in putting up infrastructure and commercial projects in the city within the next two years. (ROHAIMA S. ESMAEL, BACOM 3, NDU – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

ARMM offers 3,115 slots for two scholarship programs

SCHOLARSHIP --- ARMM's partner line agencies convened for the orientation of the ARMM's Technical Education and Skills Development Authority scholarship programs. ORG Chief of Staff Atty. RasolMitmug Jr. (left) said the application for the two scholarship and student assistance programs which include Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) and Training for Work Scholarship (TWSP) are now open to the public. A total of 2,325 slots has been allocated under TWSP and 790 slots for PESFA. To avail themselves of the scholarship programs, applicants may visit the TESDA training office in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. (BUREAU OF PUBLIC INFORMATION – ARMM / MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --– The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (TESDA-ARMM) has officially announced the availability of 3,115 slots under two scholarship programs of the agency.

Atty. Rasol Mitmug Jr., Office of the Regional Governor’s chief of staff and concurrent TESDA-ARMM officer-in-charge, said applications for the two programs, specifically the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) and Training for Work Scholarship (TWSP), are now open to the public.

The scholarship programs are aimed at addressing equity and access by providing direct financial assistance to deserving enrollees. A total of 2,325 slots have been allocated under TWSP and 790 slots for PESFA.

The TESDA central office has earmarked P25 million for the two scholarship programs in the region.

The TWSP provides immediate interventions to meet the need for highly critical skills. It has two objectives:to purposively drive TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) provision to available jobs through incentives and appropriate training programs that are directly connected to existing jobs for immediate employment, both locally and overseas; and to build and strengthen the capacity and capability of TVET institutions in expanding and improving the delivery of quality, efficient and relevant training programs that meet job requirements, including programs for higher levels of technology.

Target beneficiaries under this program include but not limited to the following: drug dependent surrenderees; out-of-school youths; those who are unemployed and underemployed; industry workers obtaining skills upgrading training programs; overseas Filipino workers and their dependents; basic and marginalized sectors; TVET trainers; and other targeted special groups.

PESFA, on the other hand, offers educational grants to qualified and deserving college freshmen both in degree and non-degree courses. The program seeks to; extend financial assistance to marginalized but deserving students in post-secondary non-degree courses; promote TVET; contribute to the development of a competent skilled workforce; and assist private institutions in their development efforts by assuring a steady supply of enrollees to their course offerings.

Under the program, beneficiaries must have completed at least 10 years of basic education; at least 15 years old at the start of the training; have taken the NCAE (National Career Assessment Examination); have an annual family income of not more than P300,000; must not be a recipient of any post-Grade 10 scholarship program; and must not have attended any post-secondary/college education program.

In October 2016, during the launching of the anti-poverty agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte, TESDA Director General Guiling Mamondiong said out-of-school youths and drug surrenderees are given priority in training courses offered by the agency.

“We are confident that these programs will help empower our people to become more productive members of society. These will give them opportunities through skills training that can either help them start a career, or a new business venture,” said the TESDA chief.

To avail themselves of the scholarship programs, applicants may visit the TESDA training office in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. (BUREAU OF PUBLIC INFORMATION – ARMM / MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

Shariff Aguak LGU conducts night patrol

Mayor Marop B. Ampatuan

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao--- This local government maintains nightly ronda patrol to make sure that everything is in order and in accordance with the law for the safety of the populace.

Mayor Marop B. Ampatuan, said the municipal government has been implementing the “night patrol” wherein elements of the police, barangays officials and tanods, and other security staff of the local government are moving along the national highway of the town every night to ensure the strict implementation of the curfew for minors and to increase police visibility in strategic areas.

“We’ve been doing such endeavour for months now because we believe peace and order is a shared responsibility of everyone,” said Mayor Ampatuan.

Mayor Ampatuan saidthe night patrol also involves the active participation of Vice-Mayor DatuAkmadAmpatuan who regularly joins the team to personally witness the operation of various law enforcers.

Vice Mayor Ampatuan in his desire to maintain peace and order in the community and as father of the mayor, personally patrols at night with the members of the Philippine National Police and the BPAT.

This endeavour reaps positive impression from the people that the good Vice Mayor is really determined to make ShariffAguak a haven of peace. As a result of this initiative, not a single report of crime or theft is registered the past months in the blotter of the municipal police station.

“Through this campaign, we make sure that everything is in order and in accordance with the law,” said Vice-Mayor Ampatuan.

Meanwhile, Mayor Ampatuan said their move is in accordance to strengthening the MamayangAyawsaAnomalya, MamayangAyaw sa IlligalnaDroga or MASA MASID program of the government.

“MASA MASID is a collaborative effort of the local PNP, barangay leaders, religious sectors, civil society groups, and non-government organizations, and our populace,” said Mayor Ampatuan.

The local government now focuses on the fight against illegal gambling after eradicating the problem on illegal drugs. The tandem vows to eliminate any form of criminalities in the town.

“It is now the high time that we encourage our constituents to take action against all forms of irregularities and illegal activities,” Mayor Ampatuan said.(GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

VM Dumamareveals focus of Sangguniang Panlungsod

COTABATO CITY --- Cotabato City Vice-Mayor Graham Nazer G. Dumama has revealed the ongoing focus of the Sangguniang Panlungsod for the benefit of Cotabateños.

Dumama said the city council’s latest accomplishment for the past two weeks was the “economic zone declaration”, where the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has requested the city planning office to identify potential areas.

“We submitted a resolution addressed to PEZA, wherein they will select areas to be declared economic zone for economic progress. One potential area is located in Kalanganan Dos.We are targeting all for economic progress, measures and ordinances,” he said.

Dumama said they also submitted ordinances regarding tourism most especiallythe tourism code.

“We would want toregulateplacing of streamers and billboards for tourism beautification. It is not appropriate that they place these tarpaulins and streamers anywhere. Sometimes in places at high risk like electric posts,” he said.

Further, he said Councilor Bruce Matabalao’s focus which is Disaster Preparedness in every school is now on its third and final reading.

“Every school here in Cotabato City should have disaster preparedness plan,” he said.

With regards to the traffic problem, he said the city currently implements rerouting scheme.

“We created one way streets and updated our ordinances. We updated several laws that are still being implemented and followed in Cotabato City up to this day despite being crafted more than a decade ago,” he said.

It was learned that these outdated laws must already be amended or repealed in order to be more responsive to the present needs of the city.Considering that the city’s population is getting bigger by the day, Dumama said that in one to two weeks time, the executive department shall be implementing the new traffic code.

In addition, he said there will be “no parking” policy in some areas mostly in the highway. In SK Pendatun Avenue, it will be one way road.

“We will be strictly implementing and stiff penalties will be charged to violators. Just like other leading cities in the country, we need to pass local ordinances that are more relevant to the needs of the changing times", said Dumama.

In the midst of rapid development that Cotabato City is now experiencing, the city council copes and gears towards enacting laws that will be conducive to the growth of the city's economy.

Meanwhile, since we are observing fire prevention month, the good Vice-Mayor supports the campaign of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

“The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council shall join the BFP in the campaign in all barangays to ensure safety of every establishment and household,” he said. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)