SOLUTION

SOLUTION --- Mayor Ramdatu Angas (inset) meets with Barangay Chairmen of Sultan Sa Barongis regarding the upcoming “peace covenant signing” with the hope to finally end the decade long conflict of warring families. (ANNE ACOSTA – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

ARMM holds quarterly nationwide shake drill

PREPAREDNESS --- Office of Civil Defense- ARMM Officer-in-Charge Myrna J. Angot cited in a recent press conference the importance of properly executing the duck-cover-hold during earthquakes. OCD-ARMM has participated last March 31, 2017 during the conduct of the first quarter “Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill” held at Mindanao State University- Maguindanao. (GILMHAR A. LAO–MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao ---The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao conducted its version of the  1^st Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) last March 31 held at the grounds of the Mindanao State University – Maguindanao in Dalican, Datu Odin Sinsuat with some 4,000individuals who participated in the simulated exercise spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-ARMM.

Myrna J. Angot, officer-in-charge of OCD-ARMM, said they simulated the occurrence of a Magnitude 7.2 earthquake generated by the Cotabato trench whose ground shaking could affect the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato and could cause heavy damages on buildings and other physical structures.

As simulated in the drill: “There was a one minute shaking, where a person cannot stand,” Angot narrated.

In the exercise, she highlighted the importance of the proper execution of the duck-cover-hold position. “In this drill, we emphasized to the students and to the participants that the proper execution of the duck-cover-hold position is a life-saving technique in the event of an earthquake.”

Angot extended her gratitude to the various agencies that took part in the success of the activity, mostly regional agencies or departments and other partner disaster responders.

Angot said that the students, faculty members, and staff of the Mindanao State University who accepted the #BidaAngHanda Challenge had their fair contributions in the conduct of the drill.“We are happy with the outcome of the activity. They were all participative.”

Angot also emphasized the importance of the advance warning of an earthquake, “so it is only a must take on serious security measures ahead of time and be able to learn how to properly respond.”

“We sincerely thank all actors which resulted to the success of this very significant event. Until the next quarter, let’s do the DUCK, COVER, and HOLD once more,” said Angot.

Engr. Amier Ashan Aplal, operations officer of OCD-ARMM, said it is essential to understand the procedures “so we can save more lives.”

“When you are situated indoor and a large earthquake occurs, you should avoid moving objects, objects that may fall from, and even broken glasses. If you are outside, find an open space and avoid buildings and trees. Keep a safe distance from man-made structures that are taller than you and do the duck and cover head at least with hands. For some who maybe driving along the streets, you should temporarily stop and seek in a safe place,” said Aplal.

Earthquakes are unique challenges to communities. Unlike other natural or man-made hazards, it occurs with no warning. But with proper training and advance proper planning, communities can be prepared to react appropriately during and after an earthquake, experts say.

Further, as compared to the new smartphones, the old yet reliable two-way handheld radios are still the best communication equipment in the field when responding to disasters.

Angot said VHF radios are preferred by rescuers and partners as they are more resilient to any weather condition.“VHF radios could withstand long hours of use during operations with lesser worries on battery depletion.”

During calamities, she said communication towers might be toppled down, but the VHF radios are proven to be worthy in the field when disasters strike.

PHIVOLCS Cotabato Chief Engr. Rainier Amilbahar said they are closely monitoring the 250-kilometer Cotabato trench in Mindanao that has a history of strong quake occurrence once every 30-40 years.

On August 17, 1976, an 8.0 magnitude temblor shook the Moro Gulf, causing catastrophic destruction to Maguindanao province and Cotabato City.

The theme of the NSED for the first quarter of 2017 was “Mag-Duck-Cover-Hold, Dahil Bida and Handa.”(GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE ACOSTA– MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COMMAND TOUR

COMMAND TOUR --- The Sulu Police Provincial Office welcomes with an “arrival honor” Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore C. Sindac and party of PRO-ARMM who visited his men in Sulu for inspection last March 24. P/CSupt.Sindac, on his first sortie among his men, distributed 30,000 rounds of ammunition for M16 rifle, 5,000 rounds for 9mm pistol, and 32 pieces of Glock pistols. He also held his first Regional Command Conference and Multi-Stakeholder Meeting in Sulu as part of the campaign against terrorism in the province. (MARK NAVALES–MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

CLOSER WITH PEOPLE

CLOSER WITH PEOPLE ---The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has poured in millions-worth of projects in Al-Barka town in Basilan, a former stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf Group.To bring basic social services and government assistance closer to the people of Barangay Macalang in Al-Barka, the ARMM government brought People’s Day here last March 27. ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman led the activity supported by Basilan Governor Jim Saliman, Al-Barka Mayor Darussalam Lajid, heads of regional line agencies, and local officials.(BUREAU OF PUBLIC INFORMATION-ARMM / MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

SSB urges a stop to armed aggression

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Fun-run for drug-free S. Aguak stirs awareness

KABATAAN IWAS DROGA --- The local government of Shariff Aguak spearheaded a “Fun-Run” last March 25 as part of its continuing goal to clear every barangay against illegal drugs. Mayor Marop B. Ampatuan (3^rd from left) led the event. (COURTESY OF SHARIFF AGUAK MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao --- This local government held a fun-run last March 25, dubbed as “Kabataan Iwas Droga,” to stir awareness against the use of illegal drugs.

Mayor Marop B. Ampatuan said the activity was well participated by some 2,000 runners from different walks of life.

“The fun-run was a success in the sense that the goal of drumbeating awareness among our populace in the war against illegal drugs was achieved,” Mayor Ampatuan said.

The free registration fun-run yielded participants from the local government and agencies of ShariffAguak, Department of the Interior and Local Government- Maguindanao, Department of Education - Maguindanao, Philippine National Police - Maguindanao, Philippine Army’s 601st Brigade, Integrated Provincial Health Office - Maguindanao, and town constituents.

The exciting part of the Fun Run was the awarding of prizes to the winners: 1st finisher- P5,000; 2nd finisher- P3,000; and 3rd finisher- P2,000.

“10 consolation prizes at P500 each were also given to the first-10 finishers, excluding the three major finishers. In addition, 500 pieces of Dri-fit uniforms were given freeto the first-500 registrants,” said Mayor Ampatuan.

Mayor Ampatuan reiterated that he wants his constituents to understand through different activities, like thefun-run that a drug-free community is the best way to preserve families.

“Our local officials and operatives have earned the grateful appreciation of the municipal government and the people of Shariff Aguak for their unrelenting campaign against illegal drugs, which has helped in bringing us nearer to the realization of having a “drug-free”Shariff Aguak,” he said.

In the past months, the Municipal Peace and Order Council of Shariff Aguak had worked out the surrender to the police of local drug dependents and peddlers.

The partnership of Mayor Marop and Vice Mayor Datu Akmad Mitra Ampatuan was a perfect tandem in the call of the national leadership to fight illegal drugs. For months now, this town has also conducted regular “nightly ronda patrol” to safeguard communities against illegal drugs and other forms of criminality.

“The aim of this activity is to promote awareness on the effects of illegal drugs and the importance of having a healthy lifestyle. The local government of Shariff Aguak is determined to push through with this campaign,” he said.

Further, the mayor extended his gratitude to the people of the town and their development partners and all other sectors for making the event a successful one.

“The success of this activity is due also to our partners in the media for sharing and spreading the good and right information on what really is happening in this town. The current leadership is doing its utmost best to make Shariff Aguak a drug-free municipality,” said Mayor Ampatuan. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA– MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DepEd Maguindanao: Graduation rites should be “simple”

COMMUNICATION --- DepEd Maguindanao I Schools Division Superintendent BaiMeriamKawit shares the importance of using “handheld radios” for communication,most especially in far-flung communities. “We use this to communicate with our teachers in the farthest areas and it is very helpful like for instance, when the communication signal is down.” (ANNE ACOSTA – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --- The Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Maguindanao Ihas reminded schools to make graduation ceremonies not a burden to parents.

BaiMeriamKawit, Maguindanao District 1 Schools Division superintendent, stressed that graduation ceremonies should be simple and yet “meaningful to the students and parents.”

In this regard, Kawit explained that it still depends on the majority of the decision of parents in the school.“We understand that this is a once in a lifetime event. Should the parents would want their children to wear toga, it’s still up to them to decide. However, while these rites mark a milestone in the life of the graduates, it should be conducted without excessive spending.”

Graduation ceremonies for school year 2016 -2017 are scheduled on the first week of April.

Kawit reiterated there should be no collection of any amount for contributions before or during graduation and parents are not obliged to donate an amount to the school where their children will be graduating.

"Contributions are not mandatory or compulsory,” she said.

Though graduation rites could be held simple and meaningful, she said this encourages the endowment of civil rights, a sense of community and personal responsibility.

For school year 2016-2017, the DepEd is announcing the conduct of the following end of school year rites: graduation ceremony for Grade 6 learners who completed elementary education and are entitled to an elementary certificate; moving up to or completion of Grade 10 learners who completed junior high school and are entitled to acorresponding certificate; graduation ceremony for Grade 12 learners from schools with DepEd-approved K to 12 transition plan, or from schools with permit to operate Senior High School 2014, or from international schools with K to 12 program. Graduates are entitled to high school diploma.

The closing ceremonies, or the Moving Up, should be simple involving only the learners, the parents, and the school.

The DepEd also reiterated that non-academic projects such as attendance to field trips, film showing, junior-senior promenade, and other school events should not be imposed as requirements for graduation or completion.

Further, the DepEd is stressing the importance of collaborative efforts of the stakeholders and learners in achieving the shared vision of quality, accessible, relevant, and liberating basic education for all.

“I enjoin everyone to contribute in making our basic education services geared towards the benefit of the students in Maguindanao,” Kawit said.(GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA– MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

Cotabato City government highlights women’s month

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT --- Cotabato City Mayor Atty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi cites important contributions of women in the society during a press briefing which marked the culmination of the Women’s Month celebration. (GILMHAR A. LAO – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --- Thelocal government here highlighted the strong points of women during the culmination program of the Women’s Month last March 27 which carries the theme: “We Make Change Work for Women.”

In a press briefing, City MayorAtty. Frances Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi said that   many women at the present time are already empowered, citing their placements in various executive and legislative posts and their triumphs in other parts of society.

“However, they only contribute at least 20 percent on said posts and that is why it is still a big challenge for them to go further with the flow of the changing times. Women empowerment should be encouraged because it is timely and relevant,” said Mayor Guiani-Sayadi.

Guiani-Sayadiadded thatthe rise of female leadership could be attributed  to their “sincerity” as proven by many of the gender at work.

“Well, I am not saying men are not, but clearly women are certainly more sensitive in the needs of the community,” the mayor said.

City Councilor Christina Chua, committee chair on women, said the SangguniangPanlungsod (SP) has already passed an ordinance further strengtheningthe welfare of the women sector.

“The Gender and Development Code of Cotabato City was passed which eliminates gender biases in all policies, maintains gender fairness, and protects them against all forms of violence,” said Chua.

In regards to Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC),Guiani-Sayadi stressed that it is their goal to fully implement the Magna Cartaof Women (MCW) down to the barangay level.

“I've had talks with the barangay chairmen of the city for them to be aware and sensitive on VAWC,” she said.

However, the local chief executive would want to clear up some cases of VAWC where their records don’t match with those of the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center.

“Some of these cases were transient. The victims would tell us they were residents of the city but they are not. Truth is, they actually reside in nearby municipalities and at times they are only using the address of their relatives here in Cotabato City. I am very particular with this because I would always check the records,” she said.

Guiani-Sayadi said “it is a must” that we make the rights real in the lives of women and girls.

“Definitely, cases of violence against women should stop so we must commit to the full implementation of the Magna Carta of Women,” she added.

In line with the Women’s Month celebration, the city government has previously inaugurated its Women Crisis Centerlocated at the Social Development Center Compound in the city.

The center is one of the flagship projects of the late city mayor Japal J. Guiani, Jr. which was continued by Guiani-Sayadi.

The center was constructed by phase and completed in 2016. With an over-all budget of about P5-M, the facility can accommodate some 24 clients at a time. It has three bedrooms good foreight people, a kitchen and dining area, a receiving office, a training room, and comfort rooms.

Cheribin Mena K. Viloria, the city social welfare officer, said the crisis center is provided with a training room as the city government plans to equip the admitted women with skills development trainings, such as sewing, to help them develop themselves, become more productive, and most importantly, help them move on from the trauma that they have experienced because of the abuses they have gone through.

“The first intervention that we will make is the psycho social phase followed by  legal and medical assistance for women survivors that includes counselling services. The second objective is to empower the abused women and children through educational skills and life skills and to facilitate the other services and resources in other offices,” Viloria said.

Viloria also revealed that Cotabato City has recorded a high number of violence against women and children victims in 2016. However, she refused to give exact details on the cases for “confidentiality and safety of the victims.”

“As we open the WCC, we envision the provision of immediate access and effective crisis intervention and support and attention to the victims and women survivors. We also empower the victims of rape, sexual abused, and domestically abused to gain self-esteem and self-sufficiency and to move beyond being a victim to become a strong survivor,”Mayor Guiani-Sayadi added.

Among those present during the press briefing were Cotabato City Women Council chairpersonJo Demit-Manandil, Kaagapay OFW Executive Director GoldyOmelio, Shirley P. Salik of the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, and KALIPI Federation chairperson Marilyn Maguindanao. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA– MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

RESCUE

RESCUE --- Fire Officer I JeddahminAkmad of the Bureau of Fire Protection - Datu Saudi Ampatuan demonstrates how to rescue a victim in case of an earthquake. The local government of Datu Saudi Ampatuan  participated in the first quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill with some 200 municipal employees executing the disaster preparedness and response drill conducted last March 31 at the municipal grounds. (ANNE ACOSTA– MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DSA highlights “Inaul weaving” as town product

INAUL FABRIC WEAVING --- Using the weaving tool known as “Iluwan,” at least 10 Moro women will soon weave “tubao” made of inaul fabric as Datu Saudi Ampatuan’s main product.  Mayor BaiAnida U. Dimaukom (right) shows the newly acquired Iluwan by which weavers can produce three tubaos in a day.(GILMHAR A. LAO –MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DATU SAUDI AMPATUAN (DSA), Maguindanao --- This local government will soon produce “tubao” made of inaul fabric which will serve as Datu Saudi Ampatuan’s main product.

The southern part of the country is known for itshand-woven fabric called Inaul, interlaced with multiple colors, as well as gold and silver threads.

Datu Saudi Ampatuan Mayor BaiAnida U. Diumakom shared previously the victory of the women sector after winning first place under the “Fastest Weaver Tubao Category” in theKapaginaul competition of the “2017 Inaul Festival sa Maguindanao.”

“Amanually-designed weaving machine called Iluwanwill be used to make a special apparel called Inaul. The Iluwan shall be placed inside the municipal compound,” Mayor Dimaukomsaid.

The lady mayor said they have chosenthe production of “tubao” so they can produce larger quantities of the product.“We can produce at least threetubaos in a day.”

Tubao is a traditionally hand-woven ethnic cloth. This colorful cloth is worn as headpiece or headscarf and used as handkerchief.

“We have at least 10 women trained on inaul weaving. These women are also slated to train other women from the grassroots to earn a living,” she said.

Unlike other traditional weaves in the country, inaul is still a very much important everyday item in various communities in this part of the country.

Inaul (also pronounced inol) is a time-honored weaving tradition in Southern Mindanao. The three types of threads being used in weaving are tanor which is cottony, the silky rayon, and katiyado which is the shiny type.

Further, it was learned that the colors are reflective of the Maguindanao culture, where red means bravery, black for dignity, white for sadness, and green for peace.

Nowadays, inaul is also being made into modern clothing such as gowns, polo, and even trousers.

“We would want to makethe tradition alive by passing this knowledge and skill to the Bangsamoro women of our communities,” said Mayor Dimaukom.

She added that it is mostly important that inaul is saved and further advanced for the benefit of the future generation.(GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE ACOSTA - – MINDANAO EXPOSE’)