Lanao Muslims Celebrates Eid Al-Adha with Eid Charity Foundation

By Jun Enriquez

Goat slaughtering for the Eid Al-Adha festivities. 

 Balo-i, Lanao del Norte - After the month of Ramadan, “Eid Al-Adha” was celebrated by the Filipino Muslims in Lanao del Norte with the Muslims around the world. Aleem Zainodin Lomala, Executive Director of the Uthman Bin Affan Foundation (UBAF) said that “Eid Al-Adha” is known as "Festival of the Sacrifice" and also called the "Sacrifice Feast", is the second of two Muslim holidays celebrated worldwide each year and considered the holier of the two.  Eid Al-Adha is an Islamic festival to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim (also known as Abraham) to follow Allah's (God's) command to sacrifice his son Ismael.

Aleem Lomala said that “Eid Al-Adha” was celebrated after the month of Ramadan. The Ramadan starts at the beginning of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Because Islam observes a lunar calendar, the official beginning occurs at different times around the globe, based on when the crescent moon is first seen. The lunar calendar is about 11 days shorter than the solar calendar.

Aleem Lomala said Ramadan is a month of heightened devotion, a time that the doors of heaven are kept open, and the doors of hell are closed, and Satan is kept in chains. Muslims go through a period of intense reflection and devotion, seeking guidance and forgiveness. Muslims practice “sawm”, or fasting, during the entire month. This means they may eat or drink nothing, including water, while the sun shines. Married adults also refrain from marital relations during the hours of fasting (i.e. the daylight hours). 

He said one of the most important aspects of the Ramadan fast is called niyyah. Niyyah literally means "intention." Muslims must not simply or accidentally abstain from food; they must achieve the requirement of niyyah. To achieve this requirement, a Muslim must "intend in heart that [the fast] is meant to be a worship for Allah alone." So, if someone fasts for political or dietary reasons, he would not achieve niyyah. In fact, according to scripture, "Whoever does not make niyyah before dawn, would not have fasted." The determination to fast is equal in importance to the fast itself.

2nd from left, Aleem Lomala supervised the slaughtering 

Other duties include five daily prayers and the recitation of the Taraweeh prayer, or Night prayer. At mosques during Ramadan, about one-thirtieth of the Quran is recited in prayers called tarawih. By the end of Ramadan, the entire Quran has been recited. It’s also intended to bring the faithful closer to God and to remind them of the suffering of those less fortunate. Muslims often donate to charities during the month and feed the hungry. Ramadan celebrated for 29 or 30 days.

At left, Aleem Lomala gave goat meat to PWD person.

Aleem Lomala said In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of the 12th month and lasts for four days until the 13th day. The exact date and timing of the occasion varies on the positioning of the moon at the beginning of the Islamic calendar month, better known as Dhu’l-Hijjah. As a result of this, Eid Al-Adha often falls on different days around the world depending on the location and region.

On September 12, 2016, Eid Al-Adha was celebrated in some Barangays in the municipalities of Lanao del Norte initiated by the Uthman Bin Affan Foundation (UBAF) headed by its Executive Director Aleem Zainodin Omar Lomala, together with his staff initiated a project named  “Qurban” or “Qurbani”.

There were identified Barangays in Lanao del Norte for the project benefited the goat assistance slaughtered for the celebrations, these were the Barangays of Maria Cristina, Balo-i with two groups at 6 goats per group or there were 12 goats for the two groups; Matampay , Pantao Ragat with 16 goats; Nunungan, Poona Piagapo with 4 goats; and Denaig, Poona Piagapo with 15 goats. A total of 47 goats slaughtered during the festivities.

The goats will be slaughtered by a knife but before slaughtering, it recommends to recite verses 6:79 , 6:162 and 6:163 (Al-naam-The Cattle) with the addition "Allahumma minka walaka" ( O Allah you gave it to me and I offer it to you) after slaughtering the animal, it has to be placed down very gently on its left side, while the throat facing qiblah.

The meat will be given to the families, relatives, friends and the other residents of the place. Both family and community will cook the meat. The cooked meat will be eaten by the families but others celebrated it by eating with the company of their relatives and friends as an enjoyment and camaraderie for the celebration.

The total cost of the slaughtered goats was approximately 170,000.00 pesos only. The source of funds for the project was coming from the Sheikh Eid Bin Mohammad Al Thani Charitable Association, a non-government organization (NGO) and considered to be one of the largest charitable organizations in the Middle East, was established in 1995 in Doha, Qatar.

 

The association is alternatively known as the Sheikh Eid bin Mohammad Al Thani Charitable Organization, or the Eid Charity Foundation, was named after his Excellency Sheikh Eid Ibn Mohammad ibn Thani ibn Jasim ibn Mohammad Al Thani. Its mission, as described by the Gulf Times, is “to execute charitable and benevolent projects, develop volunteer work, and preserve noble values through skilled human resources, dynamic administrative systems and strategic organization.”

The UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION is a non-stock organization, non-profit organization registered from the Government in which it helps a diversity of people like giving donations for the people in time of need. Its vision, A charitable Organization leading and seeks to fulfill its mission and perform through the advocacy of Development, Relief, and education for the Islamic peoples; Fulfill needs through Comprehensive sustainability with the partnership of others and looking toward leadership and excellence. Its mission, Work with the leaders in all fields of development with the advocacy of Relief and Education for Muslim countries. Director Aleem Lomala said the coverage of UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION is majority concentrated in the area of MINDANAO. The foundation has branches in Ilo-ilo, Cebu, Tawi-tawi and Jolo.

Aleem Lomala extended his thanks to the Eid Charity Foundation for the financial assistance they turned over to UBAF as well as for the long standing partnership for many worthy causes. He said “Donors like you provide us the financial and moral support we needed in order to continue our mission as a Foundation. Your support has repeatedly played a key role in our success in providing and sharing blessings in the Holy month of Ramadhan and in bringing love and happiness in celebrating Eid Al-Adha.” He also extended his thanks to his staff in the UBAF for their skills and enthusiasm showed for the realization and success of the Eid Al-Adha celebrations to the communities.

Aleem Lomala added “To our brothers and sisters in Islam thank you for the warm welcome, cooperation and for showing us the hospitality as we visited and conducted the Qurbani in your barangays. To our Almighty ALLAH, the beginning and end of all things, we only stand on what we are today because you called us to enter and guide us on our way. Thank you for the Blessings and oppurtunities.” In praising he said “ALL GLORY IS OFFERED BACK IN YOU 'YA ALLAH. Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu." Photos by Jun Pacapat

RAF Foundation supports Eid Al-Adha celebration in Lanao

By Jun Enriquez

Poona Piagapo, Lanao del Norte - Eid Al-Adha  is known as "Festival of the Sacrifice" and also called the "Sacrifice Feast", is the second of two Muslim holidays celebrated worldwide each year and considered the holier of the two.  Eid Al-Adha is an Islamic festival to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim (also known as Abraham) to follow Allah's (God's) command to sacrifice his son Ismael. This information was narrated by Aleem Zainodin Omar Lomala, Executive Director of the Uthman Bin Affan Foundation (UBAF) based in Iligan City. 

Logo of the RAF Foundation

‘Eid Al-Adha” is celebrated after the Ramadan. The Ramadan starts at the beginning of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Because Islam observes a lunar calendar, the official beginning occurs at different times around the globe, based on when the crescent moon is first seen. The lunar calendar is about 11 days shorter than the solar calendar. Ramadan is celebrated for 29 or 30 days.

Director Aleem Lomala said Muslims around the world celebrate and observe Eid Al Adha every year. On the commencing morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims will attend morning prayers and sermon at a mosque. They also wear new clothes, visit family members and friends and may symbolically sacrifice an animal in an act known as “qurbani”. The Qurbani (sacrificial) meat is then divided into three equal parts – one for the household, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor - a meal will then be prepared with this sacrifice.  This represents the animal that Ibrahim sacrificed in the place of his son. 

At left, Aleem Lomala gave cow meat to brother Muslim

In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of the 12th month and lasts for four days until the 13th day. The exact date and timing of the occasion varies on the positioning of the moon at the beginning of the Islamic calendar month, better known as Dhu’l-Hijjah. As a result of this, Eid al-Adha often falls on different days around the world - depending on the location and region.

On September 12, 2016 Eid Al-Adha was celebrated in Lanao Del Norte and other places locally. The Uthman Bin Affan Foundation (UBAF) headed by its Executive Director Aleem Zainodin Omar Lomala, together with his staff initiated a project named  Qurban or Qurbani.

Customarily the “Eid Al Adha” was celebrated by slaughtering a Cow or Goat. Slaughtering of cow and goats represents the animal that Ibrahim sacrificed in the place of his son. A person should slaughter his own animal if he is able to slaughter it properly, otherwise he should entrust it to someone to slaughter it on his behalf.

The cow will be slaughtered by a knife but before slaughtering, it is recommended to recite verses 6:79 , 6:162 and 6:163 (Al-naam-The Cattle) with the addition "Allahumma minka walaka" ( O Allah you gave it to me and I offer it to you) after slaughtering the animal, it has to be placed down very gently on its left side, while the throat facing qiblah.

The meat will be given to the families, relatives, friends and the other residents of the place. Both family and community will cook the meat. The cooked meat will be eaten by the families but others celebrated it by eating with the company of their relatives and friends as an enjoyment and camaraderie for the celebration.

Director Aleem Lomala said during the local celebrations, there was one cow slaughtered in CEBU, one of the branches of the foundation but mostly the project was implemented in Lanao del Norte areas for the slaughtered cow offering with one cow per Barangay particularly for the following Barangays, the Cabasaran; Bacayawan, Munai;  Lumbac, Pantao Ragat; Walo a Datu; Pantaon, Batangan, Matungao; Pantao Mareg; Maliwanag; East Poblacion, Pantao Ragat; Aloon, Pantao Ragat; Maliwanag, Pantaon; and Poona Piagapo with two cows slaughtered. The cows slaughtered offering for the “Eid Al Adha” for the Qurban or Qurbani project was supported by the RAF Foundation. A total of 13 cows in 12 Barangays were slaughtered during the celebration locally. The total project cost for the cows slaughtered is amounted approximately at 240,000.00 pesos only. 

The funds for the project was coming from the support of the Foundation Sheikh Thani Ibn Abdullah for Humanitarian Services abbreviated as RAF, is a Qatari foundation established by the Al-Thani family. The foundation provides humanitarian aid and contributes to social development of all sectors of the Qatari society without discrimination. RAF is also engaged in international projects in partnership with foundations that share the same goal.

The UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION is a non-stock organization, non-profit organization registered from the Government in which it helps a diversity of people like giving donations for the people in time of need. Its vision, A charitable Organization leading and seeks to fulfill its mission and perform through the advocacy of Development, Relief, and education for the Islamic peoples; Fulfill needs through Comprehensive sustainability with the partnership of others and looking toward leadership and excellence. Its mission, Work with the leaders in all fields of development with the advocacy of Relief and Education for Muslim countries. Director Lomala said the coverage of UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION is majority concentrated in the area of MINDANAO. The foundation has branches in Ilo-ilo, Cebu, Tawi-tawi and Jolo.

Director Aleem Zainodin Omar Lomala in his message said “In behalf of UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION FOR DEVELOPMEMT, RELIEF, DA'WAH AND EDUCATION INC. I am pleased to convey and express my gratitude to Foundation Sheikh Thani Ibn Abdullah for Humanitarian Services (RAF Foundation) for the financial donation they turned over to UBAF as well as for the long standing partnership for many worthy causes.” He added, “Donors like you provide us the financial and moral support we needed in order to continue our mission as a Foundation. Your support has repeatedly played a key role in our success in providing and sharing blessings in the Holy month of Ramadhan and in bringing love and happiness in celebrating Eid Al-Adha.” 

Director Aleem Zainodin Omar Lomala

Director Aleem Lomala also extended his thanks to the staff of UBAF performing their best for the success of the celebration and extend his thanks to his brothers and sisters in Islam for their hospitality and cooperation for the visit by conducted the “Qurbani”. “To our Almighty ALLAH, the beginning and end  of all things, we only stand on what we are today because you called us to enter and guide us on our way. Thank you for the Blessings and opportunities. ALL GLORY IS OFFERED BACK IN YOU 'YA ALLAH. "Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu." Director Aleem Lomala said. Photos by Jun Pacapat

UNOCHA mobilize preparation for humanitarian assistance on Lawin victims

By Muktar Farah, OCHA Philippines Head of Office

Update as of 21 October 2016: To access the full report, please follow this link:

Makita City, Philippines - Typhoon Haima (locally named Lawin) made landfall in Peñablanca, Cagayan province, at 11 p.m. on 19 October as a Category 4 typhoon with sustained winds of 225 km/h and gusts of up to 315 km/h. After landfall, it quickly downgraded to a Category 3 typhoon, leaving a broad path of debris, damage to homes and buildings, flooding and landslides. 

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), as of 5:00 p.m., 20 October, Typhoon Haima was located 260 km west-northwest of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte province, with maximum sustained winds up to 130 km/h near the centre and gusts up to 160 km/h. It continues to weaken as it moves away from the country and will exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility tonight. 

Estimated rainfall amounts are from moderate to heavy within the 700 km diameter of the typhoon. Sea travel is risky over the northern and eastern seaboards of northern Luzon. Tropical cyclone warning signal (TCWS) number 1 (30-60 km/h winds expected in 24 hours) is in effect for the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Abra. All other tropical cyclone warning signals have been lifted. 

Approximately 90,000 people were pre-emptively evacuated in Regions I, II, II, IV-A, V and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), according to the information available from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). NDRRMC is validating eight reported casualties in Ifugao, Isabela, Ilocos Norte and Cagayan provinces. It reports a total of 230 evacuation centres operating in the affected areas, but is confirming the number of people displaced. There are 37 roads in Cagayan and Isabela that are not passable. The initial observation is that Tuguegarao City, where the regional government offices are located, does not have major humanitarian issues at this time. Houses made of concrete have suffered roof damage, but houses made of light materials have been destroyed. 

The Government of the Philippines undertook considerable preparedness activities to mitigate the effects of the typhoon as it approached the country. Local authorities are now leading the relief and debris clearing operations. 5 million People within the 100 km radius of the typhoon track 175,500 People living below the poverty level within the 100 km radius of the typhoon track 21 UN agencies, INGOs, local partners present in the affected area Source: OCHA Philippines The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on this map do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by the United Nations. Philippines Typhoon Haima Situation Report No. 1 | 2 United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Coordination Saves Lives | www.unocha.org 

NDRRMC has requested support from Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), a network of Filipino businesses, to gather more data over the next two days in the most affected areas and to mobilize additional logistic support to transport humanitarian aid. PRC will deploy various vehicles to support debris removal, search and rescue and delivery of relief items. Two PRC assessment and chapter support teams are also on standby at headquarters for dispatch to travel to Abra, Ilocos Norte, and Ilocos Sur, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya and Aurora provinces. PDRF, in partnership with NDRRMC, distributed the relief items, including solar lamps, relief bags, mats, sacks of clothing and towels and bottled water. 

Far East Broadcasting Company-First Response Radio (FRR-FEBC), through its local radio network partner DZMR 1143 AM, is working with the Santiago City government in Isabela, the Region II office of the Philippine Information Agency, local non-government organizations (NGO) and affected communities in a series of humanitarian radio programming. Its broadcast coverage reaches the provinces of Isabela and Aurora, as well as parts of CAR. The radio programme reports on weather updates, ongoing response of the local government and local NGOs on WASH, food distribution, child protection and restoration of communication lines in Isabela and Cagayan. 

The Humanitarian Coordinator has made a written offer of assistance to the Government on 19 October. While the Government has not called for international support at this time, it has made a targeted request for logistical support to WFP using in-country resources to transport food items. Typhoon Haima is the twelfth cyclone to affect the Philippines this year. It followed Typhoon Sarika, which struck central Luzon four days ago. 

Needs Assessments teams composed of Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police based in Tuguegarao City plan to undertake a rapid assessment of Cagayan municipalities on 21 October. OCHA and World Food Programme (WFP) teams on the ground are ready to support this exercise. Also, members of the Philippine International NGO Network are coordinating teams to participate in damage assessments. There are currently 21 organizations in the affected areas conducting needs assessments. Member organizations of the Community Engagement Community of Practice are conducting rapid information communication accountability assessments in Aurora, Cagayan and Isabela. Participating organizations include Action Against Hunger (ACF), CARE, FRR-FEBC, IOM, Oxfam, Peace and Conflict Journalism Network, Save the Children, SkyEye, United Methodist Communications and World Vision. Most clusters are also starting their assessments.

A Camp Coordination and Camp Management team is on its way to Tuguegarao City. From there, the team will survey people displaced in Cagayan, Isabela and Aurora until 23 October. Emergency shelter assessments are also ongoing. The Education cluster is supporting the Department of Education’s assessment of damage to schools over the weekend. FAO will participate this weekend, as well, in an assessment led by the Department of Agriculture of affected farmlands.

The National Nutrition Council has mobilized and is conducting its own assessment of affected areas. It has therapeutic food supplements available for deployment. The Health and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene clusters report the extensive pre-positioning medicines and medical supplies, as well as aquatabs and other sanitation items. The Protection cluster will determine any need for protection coordination based assessment results, but has a UNHCR team ready to deploy.

Child Protection Working Groups (CPWG) in Region I and CAR have been activated and the Child Protection sub-cluster, in partnership with the Community Engagement Community of Practice, has disseminated key protection messages in the affected areas. Additionally, WFP has pre-positioned emergency telecommunications and logistical assets and equipment, as well as food resources provided by the Australian government. NDRRMC is planning to use the three commercial airports in Laoag City, Tuguegarao City and Cuayan, Isabela, as possible humanitarian distribution hubs in the next two days to augment the response of various affected local government units.

General Coordination, NDRRMC is holding daily response coordination meetings in which OCHA is participating. Philippines Typhoon Haima Situation Report No. 1 | 3 United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Coordination Saves Lives | www.unocha.org , The Humanitarian Country Team and the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group met on 20 October respectively for a situation analysis and to discuss next steps. The Emergency Response Preparedness Working Group, a broader forum for inter-cluster coordination, met on 17 October and reviewed support options that were available.

OCHA, upon the invitation of OCD, deployed two teams to Tuguegarao City on 19 October to facilitate the liaison between the authorities and international organizations. Agencies deploying teams to the affected areas are encouraged to contact OCHA. Humanitarianresponse.info is being used by humanitarian partners to share information about assessments. The Government is using the hashtags #LawinPH for regular updates for this typhoon, as well as standardized hashtags , #ReliefPH, #RescuePH, #FloodPH to monitor requests for assistance. 

OCHA Flash Update Haima No.2

Situation overview

As of 19 October (2 p.m., Manila time), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) continued providing updates regarding the typhoon Haima. The Category 4 Typhoon Haima (locally known as Lawin) has intensified and gained strength. It was located 300 km east of Casiguran, Aurora in Luzon with maximum sustained winds of 225 km/h and gusts of up to 315 km/h according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the country's weather bureau. It is moving west northwest at 24 km/h.

Typhoon Haima is expected to make landfall over Cagayan-Isabela area late evening of 19 October 2016 or early morning of 20 October, then cross Apayao and Ilocos Norte as it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility late evening of 20 October or early morning of 21 October.

Estimated rainfall amount is from moderate to heavy within the 800 km diameter of the typhoon, with the effects to be felt starting 19 October. A total of 266 municipalities in the likely affected Regions I, II, III and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) will experience rain that could trigger flash floods and landslides given the wet ground from Typhoon Sarika. PAGASA warns that storm surges of up to five metres may occur in the landfall areas.

Disaster preparedness and Government  response

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center (NDRRMC) is meeting daily for Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment and have maintained its red alert status. The Department of Interior and Local Government has instructed the evacuation of affected families and have requested local authorities to submit the number of evacuees. Local government authorities in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela have conducted early evacuations.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has a total stockpile and standby funds amounting to PhP1.28 billion (US$26.5 million) and a total of 500,000 family food packs pre-positioned in its national and regional warehouses.

Humanitarian response and coordination

There are a number of UN agencies, international NGOs and local partners deployed to Tuguegarao City in Cagayan to assist in the response, which OCHA is mapping in collaboration with the clusters. OCHA, upon the invitation of the Office of Civil Defense, has fielded two teams to assist the authorities to coordinate assistance and assess needs.

OCHA Flash Update Haima No.1

As of 18 October (10 a.m., Manila time), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) provided updates regarding the typhoon Haima. Category 3 Typhoon Haima (locally known as Lawin) was located 950 km east of Daet, Camarines Norte, in Luzon with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts of up to 230 km/h according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the country's weather bureau. It is moving west northwest at 25 km/h.

Typhoon Haima entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on 17 October, just as Typhoon Sarika exited on the same day. It is expected to make landfall over Cagayan province early morning of 20 October, then cross Apayao and Ilocos Norte as it exits PAR late evening of 20 October or early morning of 21 October.

Estimated rainfall amount is from moderate to heavy within the 650 km diameter of the typhoon, with the effects to be felt starting 19 October.  A total of 266 municipalities in the likely affected Regions I, II, III and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) will experience rain that could trigger flash floods and landslides given the wet ground from Typhoon Sarika.  Authorities are monitoring Magat Dam in Isabela province and San Roque Dam in Pangasinan province as their reservoirs are near spilling level after accumulating rain from the recent typhoon.

PAGASA expects the typhoon to intensify to Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal Number 4 (with winds of 171-220 km/h expected in 12 hours) before making landfall, and are not ruling out the possibility of TCWS Number 5 (winds of more than 220 km/h).

Disaster preparedness and Government  response

The NDRRMC is meeting daily for Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment. According to the Department of Interior and Local Government, local government units in the likely affected areas are activating their pre-disaster monitoring and reporting in compliance with disaster preparedness protocols under Operation Listo. Local authorities were encouraged to issue ordinances to halt tourism activities in likely affected areas in line with a Department memorandum of ensuring “zero casualties” during calamities.

The Government’s Response Cluster is active, with the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Quick Response Teams deployed to Typhoon Sarika-affected areas. DSWD has PhP527 million (US$10.8 million) standby funds and a total of 500,000 family food packs pre-positioned in its national and regional warehouses. Government trucks carrying family food packs were deployed to replenish warehouses in CAR (10,000 family food packs), Tuguegarao City, Cagayan (5,000 family food packs), and Apayao province (3,000 family food packs). Families displaced by Typhoon Sarika, who are in areas that will also be affected by Typhoon Haima, will remain in evacuation centres and will continuously to receive aid from authorities.

The Department of Health has pre-positioned medicine and supplies at its regional hospitals and health teams are on standby for deployment.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines disaster response units are on-call and will deploy communication teams at the municipal level to augment the capacity of local government units. Military assets will also be mobilized to transport relief items and clear roads.

Humanitarian response and coordination

The Humanitarian Country Team’s Emergency Response Preparedness Working Group convened on 17 October and are taking stock of its in-country capacities that may be used to support government response if needed. The Philippine International NGO Network which brings together 48 INGOs, met on 18 October and discussed preparedness actions.

It’s no fear in Munai Medical Mission

By Jun Enriquez

Munai, Lanao del Norte – there were three Barangays in Munai, Lanao del Norte enjoyed and benefited the medical mission conducted on October 16, 2016 held at Panggao Elementary School, Panggao, Munai, Lanao Norte. These are the Barangays of Pantaon, Tamparan and the host Barangay of Panggao. The medical mission was conducted by the 5^th Mechanized Infantry (Kaagapay) Battalion, Philippine Army in partnership with the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET) and Jaycees International of Panguil Bay, Lanao del Norte, Department of Education and in cooperation with the Local government unit of Munai.

At left, Lt. Col. Galileo Goyena

Aside from the three beneficiary Barangays the medical mission also accepted people from nearby places to enjoy the program. The medical mission gave free services on medical consultation, dental consultation, libreng tuli, free massage, salon services, free haircut, free blood typing and sugar screening, feeding activity, free medicines, Film showing. Also include the lecture on forest protection, , Distribution of school supplies. There were at least 200 children and 500 adults enjoyed and benefited the program.

Munai Vice Mayor Ike Balabagan

Lt. Col. Galileo Goyena, CAV (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander of the 5^th Mechanized Infantry (Kaagapay) Battalion, Philippine Army, based in Bagumbayan, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte said the purpose of the medical mission is to open the place for other people to see Munai a safe place. It will also capacitate and empower the community to communicate other people freely. Goyena said that Panggao is an interior Barangay of Munai was known to be in bad image due to the incidence of kidnapping and cattle rustling that allegedly confined in the area. But the people in the community doesn’t want their place to be dragged into bad image. Goyena said that Panggao is not covered in the area of temporary stay of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). 

Psychosocial for children

Goyena said the bad image was instilled to the perception of the people outside Munai. To clear this perception is to make some activities that will serve as a show window to establish good relations among other people outside the community, teach the children on good works and attitude with the help of the teachers in school. Capacitate the community to learn that there is a government serving the people. The non-government organizations (NGOs) will also be used the place for their presence. Goyena expressed his thanks to all the stakeholders and partners especially the Munai Municipal Mayor Casan Maquiling for the very successful event this day.

Lt. Col. Goyena giving school supplies to children

Vice Mayor Ike Balabagan delivered a message in behalf of Mayor Casan Maquiling who was in Manila during the time of the event was stranded on his flight due to bad weather condition and was not able to attend the event. Balabagan said that some people outside Munai afraid of coming in the place. He said nothing to worry in Munai today because the local government is trying their best to change the image of Munai in cooperation with the community by providing sustainable livelihood, support infrastructure of farm to market roads so that agricultural production will be developed and the people become busy on their livelihood and economic activities. The Munai before during the time of no lights, roads and other infrastructure people in the area were thinking bad that’s why they will do anything that created bad image in their own place. As of now bad activities are no longer happening. 

Free prescribed medicines

Balabagan said that the three Barangays should unite for development. He said the local government of Munai will initiate livelihood training on Abaca production in cooperation with the 5^th Mechanized Infantry (Kaagapay) Battalion, Philippine Army. Beneficiaries on this program will prioritize the farmers from Barangays Panggao, Pantaon and Tamparan. He said the training will follow the soonest time possible.

Fall in line for medical check up

A lecture on environmental protection was also held attended by the farmers group composed of men and women. The lecture was conducted by Forester Amron Acampena, chief of the Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) – Enforcement and regulation section, Provincial ENR based in Tubod, Lanao del Norte. The lecture discussed was about the climate change and global warming and how the trees help mitigate flooding because three-fourths of the trees is water content. Forester Acampena said that cutting of trees is allowed only to the planted trees not on the natural grown trees. That’s why their office had apprehended illegal forest products including the vehicles used in transporting the products. He said arresting illegal activities related to forest products is not a punishment but to control and prevent illegal logging.   

Free haircut

Acampena said The cutting of planted trees shall be allowed only if a person have proof of ownership of the land such as title or tax declaration where the trees was planted. The lecture was also discussed about the pertinent laws on illegal logging and land titling procedure. The participants presented that most of the land in their area have no title. Forester Acampena adviced the owner of those lands with no title shall visit their office so that the DENR office will conduct proper titling procedure.

Forester Amron Acampena

Other Personalities present during the event was Dr. Rasmila M. Cosain, Senior Education Program Specialist, DepEd; Ms. Maricar G. Ablin, chief of Schools Governance and Operations Division; Ms. Edith S. Perez, President of the JCI Panguil Bay of Lanao del Norte; Mr. Rodrigo Rodriguez, President of PAMET, Iligan City-Lanao chapter; Dr. Charles Marquez, MD, Volunteer Doctor of PAMET; Ms. Aisha A Sanggacala, Principal of Panggao Elementary School and the representative of International Monitoring Team (IMT) of the GPH-MILF peace process was also present to observe the activity.

Uthman Foundation provides relief goods to fire victims in Basilan

By Jun Enriquez

The relief goods

Isabela City, Basilan – still fresh in the minds of the people in Isabela City, Basilan of a disastrous fire was blown up on June 18, 2016 which burned 560 houses in the two Barangays at the heart of the city particularly in Barangay Kaumpurnah Zone II and Barangay Kaumpurnah Zone III. Unknown to the residents during the time of the disaster, the cause of fire was the overloaded electric circuit. There were 560 houses burned comprising 914 families affected but no one was injured or casualty during the incident. The Local Government of Isabela City had extended the immediate concerns for the reconstruction of houses for the affected residents of the two Barangays.

Director Zainodin Omar Lomala

The Uthman Bin Affan Foundation for Development, Relief, Da’wah & Education, Incorporated, based in Iligan City had conducted relief operation on October 13, 2016 in Isabela City, Basilan, Philippines. Foundation Director Zainodin Omar Lomala, said “we provided heartily a relief operation in the province of Basilan because we want to share our Blessings to the people who are victims of the fire. We want to help them realize that in times of their problems there is someone they can have the support and lean on.”

The relief operation was conducted by the staff of the UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION which lasted for two days in partnership with the SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT, ULAMA COUNCIL and the ADMINISTRATION OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF ISABELA headed by the Honorable Mayor Al-Qaid “Ochoy” Akbar.

The relief goods ready for distribution

During the relief operation each affected household received one package relief goods aggregated into 10 kilos of rice; 3 kilos of Sugar; 1 cartoon pack of Meme noodles; 1 kilo of Salt; 2 pcs. bath soap;  3 bars of Detergent Laundry soap; 1 pc. Blanket; 1 pc. t-shirt; 1 pc. Levis jeans; 5 pcs. Sardines; 1 pack of coffee. The total amount of the relief goods given to the beneficiaries worth to at least PhP 1.3 Million which source of funds was coming from Qatar Charitable Eid.

The UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION is a non-stock organization, non-profit organization registered from the Government in which it helps a diversity of people like giving donations for the people in time of need.

Its vision, A charitable Organization leading and seeks to fulfill its mission and perform through the advocacy of Development, Relief, and education for the Islamic peoples; Fulfill needs through Comprehensive sustainability with the partnership of others and looking toward leadership and excellence. Its mission, Work with the leaders in all fields of development with the advocacy of Relief and Education for Muslim countries. Director Lomala said the coverage of UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION is majority concentrated in the area of MINDANAO. The foundation has branches in Ilo-ilo, Cebu, and Tawi-tawi.

Director Zainodin O. Lomala extended his thanks, “In behalf of the UTHMAN BIN AFFAN FOUNDATION, we want to thank the Social Welfare and Development, Ulama Council and the Administration of the City Mayor in the city of Isabela for having a partnership with our Relief operation conducted. The generous support of individuals like you makes it possible for our organization to exist and to make the community a great place to live.”

At right Director Zainodin Omar Lomala on prayer.

“This will not be done and given successfully to the beneficiaries without their physical assistance and skilled workers. Most especially above all,  the Almighty ALLAH for letting and giving us more power and strength to do this operation, also to the Charitable Eid of Qatar where the source of funds came from.  Hopefully they will help more people under their charity in order to assist many people’s lives. We are gratified that Chritable Eid of Qatar believed in our work enough to give us a grant. Thank you for your trust in us.” Director Lomala indeed stated. Photos by Jun Pacapat.

                                                                  

                                                                  

CabSec Jun Evasco rallies KP launching in Iligan

By Jun Enriquez (A documentary report)

Cabinet Secretary Jun Evasco standing before the crowd. (photo by Ely Dumaboc)

Iligan City –It was the first time since President Rodrigo Roa Duterte elected into office visited Iligan City by one of his Cabinets. On Octber 15, 2016 the KilusangPagbabago (KP) was launch at the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) gymnasium, Tibanga this city. the event started at 9:30 A.M. and was ended at past noon. Cabinet Secretary (CabSec) Leoncio “Jun” B. Evasco, Jr. was the guest of honor during the event. There were about 5,000 people attended the event, composed mostly of the “poorest of the poor” sectors from the fisherfolks, farmers, women, youth and those from impoverished barangays from the provinces of Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan. Basilan and Sulu Delegates were also present during the event headed by Lugus, Sulu Municipal Mayor Hadar Hajiri, a strong supporter on federalism under the hugpong federal Movement chaired by Celso Tizon. Just recently on October 12, 2016, Mayor Hadar hosted a very successful Summit on Federalism in Lugus town attended by 4,000 participants coming from the 17 Barangays of the said municipality under his watch.

Upon the arrival of CabSec Jun Evasco in the boundary of Iligan City in Barangay Dalipuga, he was escorted and convoyed on the road by the group of Karancho riders numbering to at least 50 motorbikes headed by Karancho Jong Jarilla, Chairman, Iligan City lone district.  The KP is the movement that is envisioned to strengthen the president’s infrastructure for participatory governance while making sure that all of his programs reach and effectively sustained at the grassroots. The Kilusang Pagbabago is organized by the Office of the Participatory Governance under the Office of the Cabinet Secretary (OCS) of the Duterte Administration now headed by Secretary Leoncio "Jun" B. EvascoJr..

In his welcome message, Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz requested for a help to CabSec Jun Evasco about the status of the case of Mayor Celso Regencia that he is still in jail for a review of his case. Vera Cruz said that Mayor Regencia was just a victim of the alleged corruption and illegal drug syndicates by his political adversaries. 

The crowd inside the MSU-IIT gym. (photo by Bam Gimena)

In his message of MSU-IIT Chancellor Sukarno Tanggol said that the stand of MSU-IIT administration is also adopting change for development with President Duterte. He said the MSU-IIT will have changes on research, extension and instruction. He hopes to achieve genuine change for the good of the people and nation. He cited the Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) is an Extension office in charge on peace advocacy. He thanked that there is a President who is seriously committed in serving the Filipino people and likewise he urged the people to help the President.

L-r:Chancellor Tanggol, CabSec Evasco, Vice Mayor Vera Cruz & Mr. Libres

Mr. Joselito Penpen Libres, chief of staff of CabSec Jun Evasco introduced the latter.  CabSec Jun Evasco is a native of Maribuhok, Bohol living in a very simple and ordinary family. He is a former priest and detached from his priesthood to join the revolutionary activism for change and reform the system of the political society in the country. He was arrested during the time of the Marcos regime was jailed and tortured while in prison. Despite the challenges in life he still stands on his principle for change. He was freed through amnesty in 1986 and became the chief political adviser of the then Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte now the President of the Republic. He was the political strategist for 23 years under the then Mayor Duterte. After the time has passed by he goes back home to his hometown in Maribuhok to run as Mayor and won for 3 consecutive terms serving the people satisfactorily for good governance.

Mayor Hadar Hajiri with CabSec Jun Evasco 

Supposedly he had a big chance for the governorship in Bohol province but he preferred not to do so because he gave his all-out support to the candidacy of now President Duterte. CabSec Jun Evasco was the number one political strategist during the election campaign of the then Presidential candidate Duterte, not a conventional but unorthodox strategy. A strategy that is unusual form in the conduct of political campaign to counter the traditional type of campaigning with structured political machinery using huge amount of money for vote buying. President Duterte have won his Presidency in landslide through the campaign leadership of CabSec Jun Evasco, gained massive support from the people and Duterte garnered at least 16 million votes to achieve power. CabSec Jun Evasco is the founder of the Kilusang Pagbabago (KP) and committed to continue the campaign for the real change for the good future of the Filipino people.

CabSec Jun Evasco in his message said being a native of Bohol , the reasons why there are many Boholanos presence in Mindanao because of economic constraints and life is miserable living in Bohol. He said the just concluded elections, the elected President Duterte was started in a small round of talks on Federalism as early as October 2014. In December 2014, there was a conference in Davao with the discussions on Federalism. One of the invited speakers was Dr. Sukarno Tanggol but was not able to come due to hectic schedules. There was no mentioning on politics but the only issue discussed was federalism with the presence of former Senator Nene Pimentel, Atty. Reuben Canoy and other federalistas. During the event the participants requested the then Mayor Duterte to continue the campaign on federalism because some of the pioneer advocates have already died and others are already old enough and no more energy to carry out the campaign. The continued campaign of federalism by Mayor Duterte will inform the people as a solution to the big problem of the country such as corruption, governance and criminality by shifting from Presidential system to Federal system of the government. The then Mayor Duterte was the Guest Speaker of the Graduation rites in MSU-IIT last year.

During their campaign on Federalism nationwide they can also listened feedback from the people about the many problems encountered in the respective localities. They found out that the country needs a strong leader to address problem hampering the progress and development. The people need a strong leader to fight against illegal drugs and criminalities in the country. CabSec Jun Evasco said that 92 percent of the Barangays nationwide was affected on the problem of illegal drugs. He reiterated that people need a strong leader that will head-on the problem on corruption in the government and organized criminals within the government. In totality the people in the countryside need a strong leader without fear. The campaign in the last election was focused only in three major issues, the anti-drugs, anti-corruption and anti-criminality.

There were people in Manila telling them to stop talking about drugs, corruption and criminality because it’s non-sense issues, but the people will not stop talking the sensibility on those issues until the solution will not come which a dream of all the Filipino people nationwide. The call of the people during the political campaign is change that’s why President Duterte won the Election in a big margin.

CabSec Jun Evasco said change is not automatic, President Duterte is now in Malacanang working for change especially on corruption. He said corruption was embedded in the system of government and deep-rooted vertically and widespread horizontally. He said corruption became a culture in the system and some people say it’s already normal. He said It’s in the negative notion that if you are in the government you are corrupt from Malacanang, congress down to local governments that corruption is normal. Evasco said that one third of the national budget goes to corruption. He said the Duterte administration submitted a budget for 2017 amounted to three trillion pesos. If the notion is true then one trillion pesos will not serve the people but it will goes to the system of corruption. CabSec Jun Evasco said the government has no capacity to change by itself. He said if the system of corruption benefited the individuals in the government then they will not stop, that’s why change is not automatic. Change will only be realized if the people participate in governance under the “Kilusang Pagbabago”. He said without the participation of the people corruption business as usual in the government.

CabSec Jun Evasco said corruption is connected to illegal drugs and criminalities. If the one trillion pesos will not benefited to the people it always remain for the people living in poverty and poorer. He said that there must some kind of mechanism that would force the government for change and that is people’s participation in governance.

CabSec Jun Evasco said the “Kilusang Pagbabago” is a social movement of the people who long for change, a vehicle for change and development. He said “you must go with the KP so that the benefits will properly goes to your community and if you will not join the KP you will left behind for the change.” He added “we will work with a mechanism that will benefit from the programs and projects in governance and will undergo the process of the KP.” CabSec Jun Evasco said that those proposals and recommendations will be summarized and submitted to the different Departments of the government in Region 10 for proper implementation. He said if the concerned department will not act on it, the department head will be expecting to go out on his job through the recommendation of the KP. However, on the contrary otherwise, department heads will be appreciated by the KP.

CabSec Jun Evasco said during the Aquino administration they always saying that the country experienced the favorable macroeconomics high rate on gross domestic product (GDP). However, the high GDP rate during the Aquino administration did not benefited the people in the countryside because the people especially the Urban poor said during their campaign there was no change of their living because they remain poor. The only people benefited the high GDP rate during the administration of President PNOY are the group of oligarchs in the country such as those owner of big malls like SM malls and many others, but the poor became poorer because the poor people in masse was used by the rich for their personal interest.

There are four key strategies in the development plan of the Duterte administration with the following: first, it is collaborative that all departments will give focus for community development to study the status and prevailing problems and address the same immediately; second, is to identify the area of concern not to replicate programs from one place to another because each area have different concerns and problems; third,  it is a development prioritizing first and foremost the at least 42,000 Barangays nationwide. He said if there were people became richer during the PNOY administration are those people who are rich and became more super richer and the poor became more poorer; fourth, the KP is a watchdog of the bureaucracy that every now and then KP members will report to the office of the Cabinet Secretary for those people in the government that did not hear the word calling for change.

Evasco said that President Duterte mentioned about the mobile hot line number 8888 is still on process to install the system. This will become workable soon and will let the people send text messages for free direct to the office of the President. He urged the people to continue their watch to the government. Evasco said that President Duterte adviced all the different Secretaries to live simply and not to use the privilege car plate number 6 because the people are not happy to look at it, and even President Duterte doesn’t want to be called the title of His Excellency but he preferred to be called Mayor in the entire country. He said the President also adviced them not to use luxurious and expensive cars because the people will not believe that (Secretaries) can buy high cost of expensive cars.

 

The black ladies of Karancho.

CabSec Jun Evasco said during their first Cabinet meeting of Secretaries, the President told them that he (President) will not believe that they (Secretaries) will do corruption in the government. What worries the President is the corruption under them in the departments. If this will happen and reported to his office he (President) will call the culprit and will reprimand in front of the tri-media.

Evasco said that the President will reinvent the campaign on illegal drugs into anti-corruption and two things will happen. That it is the same as the culprit on illegal drugs will be killed because they resist forcefully against the police or they will be killed because of shame to the Filipino people. Evasco said no one can prevent President Duterte what he wants to do for the good of the Filipino People. Evasco said that the President repeatedly saying that if he will be killed in this campaign that is his destiny but if he will survive for the rest of his six-year term definitely there is change. Evasco said there are some sectors unhappy on the campaign of anti-drugs, anti-corruption and anti-criminality such as those sector lost in the last elections. They cannot accept that a “Pobinsiyano” won the elections especially from Mindanao that a person always bombarding harsh words. Evasco said that adversaries of the President are trying their best to press the issue on extra judicial killings (EJKs). Evasco said that there was no ordered from the President on EJKs. He said the order of the President is to arrest criminals and drug pushers. The killings transpired only when the culprits resist forcefully and the police acted on self-defense. Evasco said that if the police will be killed it is very expensive because the widows or widowers and their children will be paid of their pensions and educations, respectively. The government spent so much on the police force including the military for the protection of the people. Evasco said if no one will claim on the dead bodies of criminals after the shootout it is still helpful to donate it to the medical school for laboratory experiments and produce good medical doctors.

 

From right, PSSUPT Roy Ga & Col. Enriquez, PA

During their consultation in the entire country the people are very satisfied on the government’s campaign against illegal drugs and encouraged the President to continue. Right now this is the reason used by the US, EU and UN in unison reacted the issue on human rights and the President told them not to interfere the internal affairs of the Philippine government’s campaign against illegal drugs because Philippines is facing on narco-social problem that will damage the country if not acted upon.

Evasco cited the Philippines as a Sovereign and Independent State will have to change its foreign policy to have an independent foreign policy or to support power foreign policy. He said same as the US is an independent state but the difference is they are rich country and the Philippines is poor? Evasco said the raw materials of the many industries in the world including the US came from and extracted in the Philippines. He said Philippines is not poor because the US and the rest of the companies of the world benefited the minerals in our country. Being rich does not give American government the prerogative to dictate the Philippine government on what to do. Likewise, the Philippine government do not interfere the internal affairs of America. Evasco alleged that the US had plenty of cases of killings of black people and Muslims in the Africa and Middle East countries because they branded them as terrorists. The Philippine government did not question the US including France on that case.

Evasco said the President pronounced “from now on this will be the last ‘Balikatan’ the war games between the US and the Philippine armed forces”. In that war games they will test new weapons and give few of it to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), then later on the Philippine Government will buy more weapons from the US. Accordingly as part of “Balikatan” agreement the US will give weapons to the Philippines for free but here comes the war ship of World War II worth Billions of Pesos was only refurbished, reconstructed and rehabilitated. Since the money was not enough to pay for the full amount they only give the war ship without the weapons. It is how deceitful the Americans, alleged Evasco. That’s why the President was feed up and said “from now on this will be the last balikatan in our country in order not to continue of becoming like a mendicant in a very little amount of things we need”. Evasco said that President Duterte strongly pronounced “from now on I am your President to restore honor and dignity for the Filipino people”. Evasco alleged that US government branded the Moro as terrorists. He added that the truth of the matter that the biggest terrorist in the world is the US government and that’s the reason why the president decided to detach with the US because they are terrorist.

CabSec Jun Evasco alleged at the turn of the century there are many people killed by the Americans in Buda Hu, Sulu. The reason of the killings it’s because the Moro in Sulu resisted the orders of the Americans that’s why they massacred the Moro people. In fact the .45 Caliber was invented in Jolo because the weapons of the Americans during that time had no knocking power. The Americans had encountered many casualties of the war against the Moro “huramintados” in Sulu using “kris” or bolo only as their weapons. After the invention of the .45 caliber no more “huramintado” can kill Americans. In Balangiga, Leyte, the Americans massacred 8,000 waray people because the latter resisted and fight against the Americans. Evasco alleged that the Americans protected us from the Moro terrorist and was written in Philippine history which was the most blatant lie that we received through our education. The Americans accused the Moro leader Kamlon in Sulu that he was a bandit but Kamlon was just stand firm inhis commitment to fight against the Americans to protect the rights and dignity of the Moro people.

That’s why in view to this the President advice the US not to interfere the internal affairs of the Philippine government because they have their own problem and likewise the latter do not interfere the internal affairs of the former. Evasco said the European Union (EU) also wanted to interfere the internal affairs here in the country. He said the EU also waging war in African countries. The Philippine government again did not interfere their affairs of waging war in other countries. That’s why Evasco said the calling of President Duterte that they should not interfere the internal affairs of the Philippine government. The President in many of his pronouncements invited any human rights investigation but ordered them to talk first with him to clarify issues and concerns.

 

Mass oath taking of KP members

During the event a mass oath taking to all the participants as members of the KP administered by CabSec Jun Evasco as the Founding Chairman of KP. Mr. Abel Moya, KP coordinator in Lanaodel Norte and Iligan City facilitated the submission of proposals, resolutions and recommendations from the different areas in Region 10 for peace and development programs to Cab Sec Jun Evasco.

Highlights on major issues and concerns in Iligan City, submitted by the local government and the civil society organizations (CSOs). First, is about the status of the case of Mayor Celso Regencia requested a review for proper disposition. Second, is the reoperation of National Steel Corporation (NSC) with pending debt obligations amounted to at least ten billion pesos on taxes and loans.Third, is the enhancement of the Bottom-up-budgeting (BUB) process into “Participatory budgeting process” originated from the people in the Barangay to be facilitated by the CSOs and project implementation shall also be monitored by the CSOs.

It was also recommended the investigation of the “Pantawid pamilya pangkabuhayan program” or 4Ps. The 4Ps is a national program with an annual budget to at least 40 billion pesos, is a financial assistance intended for the poorest of the poor but there were individuals receiving 4Ps are even active in government service and some are working locally and abroad.

Another recommendation is to stop the kidnapping in Lanao del Norte. It is recommended that the national government shall crack down the organized kidnap-for-ransom group and other extortionist syndicates in Lanao del Norte and continue implement equitable distribution of peace and development programs especially to the conflict affected areas. In Camiguin they recommended to stop the political dynasty in the province. In Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental and Occidental recommended the implementation of the Agrarian reform program.

CabSec Jun Evasco said that his office will study all those recommendations and will delegate it to the different departments for proper implementation. He said that government’s campaign on illegal drugs will continue. He added that the one billion peso donation for the rehabilitation was coming from the group of businessmen in the country to fund the rehabilitation centers for the illegal drug dependents nationwide.

After the event CabSec Jun Evasco visited the detained Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia at the Iligan City jail in Tipanoy this city where he was detained as the alleged suspected mastermind of the ambush of former Congressman Vicente “Varf” Belmonte, Jr., on December 11, 2014, killing 3 persons and wounding 4 others resulted to the 3 counts of murder which is a non-bailable offense. Atty. Leo Zaragoza, City Councilor Huertas and Vice Mayor now Acting Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz including detained Mayor Regencia briefed Cab Sec Evasco on Regencia’s case. The Lawyers of Regencia is working in court to allow their client to post bail. In the same place CabSec Jun Evasco also had a chance to talk with the relative of the kidnap victim Clarita Belisario of Linamon, Lanaodel Norte who was kidnap on September 12, 2016 at her residence in Linamon. Local Police Chief, Police Inspector Moamar Solog said that the victim was identified to be somewhere in Poona Piagapo town. With reports & photos by Ely Dumaboc & Bam Gimena