CSOs holds healing sessions for IDPs in ECs to air voices

By Jun Enriquez

IDPs participants on Healing session at Buru-un School of Fisheries Gym, Buru-un, Iligan City

 Iligan City – For two months from middle of September to November this year, at least 400 women and 600 children who are internally displaced persons (IDPs) in eight evacuation centers (ECs) this city participated in the healing sessions to overcome ill feelings brought about by the Marawi crisis since it burst out in May this year.  The Healing session project was conducted by the Civil Society Organization Forum for Peace, Inc. in cooperation with the Samdhana Institute. The healing session is one of the Psychosocial activities to help the victims on any crisis to relax their hearts and minds from problems they encountered.

There were at least 350,000 IDPs from Marawi City scattered nationwide to evade from the crisis. In Iligan City, it was estimated to have 100,000 IDPs seek temporary relief in the ECs and staying at home with relatives and others have rented homes.

Anita Sescon, Commissioner on the Mindanao Commission on Women (MCW), Trainer of the volunteers on healing process, said that the women especially the mothers should have strong relations with their children because they are much closer than their husbands in the family. She said if the mother mismanage emotionally it will affect the whole thing in the family and future of the children. That’s why healing session is very   important for the women and children to bring back their emotions normalized, Sescon said.

Children seeing a movie

During the holding of the sessions, it founds out the prevailing issues and concerns not only for the women but for the whole family that affects their lives while they are living in the evacuation centers. They feared most about the future of their children. Other issues and concerns they shared are food security, education for children, shelter, livelihood, employment opportunity, capital for business, safety and security, financial assistance, health, among others.

Children’s issues and concerns are mostly on their education. The children were very excited during the sessions. They will be shown with a movie to make them aware on what was happening on their surroundings. The children expressed their feelings that the movies they saw made them happy, enjoyable, educational, understanding on good attitude. During the dialogue with the children after the movie shows, they shared the lessons Learned they got from the movies. They enjoyed the movie, helps understood the love of the family, awareness on environmental protection, strong determination, courage and discipline to win peaceful community.

The Technical Education and Skills development Authority (TESDA) conducted skills and livelihood trainings mostly for the women.  feedback from participants said they cannot move to engage on business because they have no capital. 

Jane Bernardo, President of the CSO-FP, said that issues and concerns regarding capital for business and other economic activities shall be referred to the concerned government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Social Welfare and development (DSWD).   

Most of the IDPs aired their voices about their living condition as soon as they will go back to Marawi City. Bernardo said that this concern will be tackled by the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace process (OPPAP). Bernardo added that they will make appropriate recommendations regarding the issues and concerns of the IDPs transpired from the healing session.

Every after the sessions conducted, the Balay Rehabilitation for Total Human Development (BIRTHDEV), the lead organization as conveners of the Mindanao Emergency Response Network for Lanao del Norte through Tina Lomoljo, Executive Director and Lead convener respectively, gave toys to children and hygiene kits for the women participated in the activity.

Bernardo said she extended her thanks to their main project partner, the Samdhana Institute who gave their all-out support for the success of the project. She also extends her thanks to the volunteers, especially the Maranao women volunteers who are also IDPs and students in Mindanao State University (MSU). Other partners in the project are BIRTHDEV, Kapamagogopa, Inc. (KI), Ranao Bay-MERN (Lanao del Norte), German Development Cooperation (GIZ), Mandala Core of Women, MCW and Partido Manggagawa (PM). With reports, photos & videos by Salve Gimena, Jac Macatimbol.

 Video file: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FF_QzndYIU

Senator JV Ejercito visits ground zero in Marawi just recently

By Jun Enriquez

Iligan City Councilor Samuel "Tatay" Huertas (2nd left); Senator JV Ejercito (3rd left); Mr. Pendatun "Penny" Disimban (4th left); Marawi Sultan Hamidullah Atar (2nd right)

Iligan City - Senator JV Ejercito was the first senator visited the ground zero in Marawi on November 18, 2017 to see the extent of the damaged brought by the five-month atrocities between the government forces and the Maute-ISIS. Ejercito said that Marawi ground zero was heavily devastated. Building structures cannot be simply repaired but it needs to be demolished and construct a new unit again because it’s unsafe to retain the remaining pieces of structures to be included in the construction. He said the reconstruction of building units must have participation from the traditional leaders to preserve cultural heritage on building houses.

There shall be a consultation forum to be held in the future with the IDPs stakeholders, Task Force Bangon Marawi, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and other agencies to assess the needs for rebuilding Marawi. The IDPs stakeholders who are the rightful beneficiaries must be included in the decision-making process on rebuilding and rehabilitation of Marawi City.

Ejercito is the chairman of the Senate housing committee assures to bring the said issues in the Senate.  He said there must be investigation to be conducted why the Marawi siege was happened and verify reports that there were personalities behind supporting the Maute-ISIS.

Pendatun “Penny” Disimban, President, Assalam Bangsamoro People’s Association, Inc.  and Ranao Rescue team hosted a forum on “Marawi Multi-Sectoral Forum on Housing” at Alemania Hotel this city, invited Senator Ejercito as the Guest Speaker. Disimban said the purpose of the forum is to air their sentiments about the housing construction for the IDPs and rehabilitation in general.  

During the forum Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra and Lanao del Sur Governor Adiong or any of their representatives were not around for unknown reasons. In the said forum one of the issues and concerns raised was about the land occupied by the Maranaos in Marawi city declared military reservation must be resolved. It was added that the land of the Muslims in Mindanao were distributed to the people coming from the North in Luzon and Visayas and the land in Marawi is owned by the Maranaos as their ancestral domain since time immemorial before the coming of Spaniards more than 400 years now.

 

Another issue taken was about the underground of Masjid Marawi was not made to be used for the war but was made for madrasah spaces for Arabic school like other buildings in Manila with underground spaces for office used and other usages.

Issues on education on private schools were left unattended must be included in the rehabilitation plan. Maute members killed in the battle have children left behind must be provided with humanitarian assistance otherwise they will be grown up unattended and will be potential to be armed again and land another atrocities as a revenge to their parents.

Ejercito said he will look all the possibilities to work in the Senate to end the problem on violent extremism in the country.

Iligan City Councilor Samuel “Tatay” Huertas who is also a businessman said that the business in Iligan City was affected due to the Marawi incident. He said 30 per cent more or less the business in Iligan City slowed down because most of the people in Marawi and Lanao Sur are clients to the businesses in Iligan City. Huertas said since the Marawi siege started there was no cases of spillover of incidents from Marawi crisis with strict implementation of security measures.

at left, Prof. Darwin Manubag

Iligan City MSU-IIT Professor Darwin Manubag, Past President, Jaycess International, Iligan chapter and Jaycees National Training Director said Senator JV Ejercito is also a JCI Senator and past National President, JCI Philippines, will be invited to come in Iligan City on October next year for the JCI national convention to be held here. 

Other personalities present during the dinner meeting were Iligan city Congressman Freddie Siao; BGen William Alunday and Col. James Enriquez, Brigade Commander and Deputy Brigade Commander of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army respectively, among others. Photos By Jun Enriquez

Kampilan Troopers Lauds a HEROES Welcome for 12MECH Infantry CO and 3Lact after Marawi Liberation

By:Liz Miso

Maguindanao – at 6ID (Kampilan) Grandstand, Camp Brigadier General Gonzalo H Siongco, Awang ,Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao lauds the troops all the way from Marawi of Kampilan Troopers who just deployed in Joint Task Force Marawi during the heavy firefights that lasted for five consecutive months away from their love ones, siblings and families. The significant event, a heroes’ welcome of troopers  was conducted on November 9, 2017.

In a statement, Colonel Steve Crispillo INF (GSC)PA, the chief of Staff of the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division the 12th Mechanized Infantry Company, First Mechanized Battalion, Mechanized Brigade and the 3rd Light Armor Cavalry Troops were part of the Joint Task Force Central forces that were immediately deployed in Marawi City together with 61DRC, 62DRC and 63DRC. These respective units who played a significant role in the liberation of the besieged city along with the other augment troopers of the government.

The Mechanized and armor units formed part of the Task Group Bakal to provide armor support to the ground troops during the implementation of OPLAN LIBERATION. One of their notable accomplishments that successfully recovered of trapped and wounded personnel of 10^th IB despite imminent and unyielding sniper fires from the enemy on the firing line. Likewise, in conjunction with task Group Vector and Task Group Panther, these consolidated efforts who participated in the assault of enemy strongholds provided a cover fires to the assaulting troops. Indeed our heroes from their end increased the survival mode of the operating troops from the ISIS-Inspired Maute Group.

At the height of the conflict up to the liberation of Marawi City, these armor units together with other JTF Central Forces who were also deployed shortly after the siege, triumphantly performed their mandated task that hurdled immensely to the accomplishments of the Joint Task Force Marawi and Western Mindanao Command's mission. Mixed emotions of the family of the soldiers found on their Heroes Welcome

Iligan City Govt. consolidates tax delinquent worth 4.6 B into NSC ownership

By Jun Enriquez

Hundreds of people in Iligan City witnessed the event.

Iligan City - This is the day the Lord has made to own the National Steel Corporation (NSC) and bring back its poise to operate again, said Iligan City Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz, a Priest on Sabbatical leave, during the Inauguration of the Consolidation of ownership of the (NSC) properties to the City Government of Iligan held on November 6, 2017 at the ground of the NSC administration building, Suarez, Iligan City, attended by other public officials such as the Iligan city councilors, Barangay officials, national and local government executives, including private business executives and hundreds of iliganons witnessed the event. Atty Dexter Rey Sumaoy, City Administrator and Atty. Rafael Benedictos, Jr. Chief of Staff, office of the Mayor were also help facilitated for the success of the event.

At the table, Iligan City Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz

Vera Cruz said during the time NSC operates the people in Iligan city experienced excellent economic condition and enjoyed prosperity in life with substantive paid salaries. When the NSC stops operation the economy of Iligan city went down and thousands of people became jobless resulted to the increase of poverty incidence. He said due to frustrations many people go into illegal drugs to forget problems they encountered in life and worst others went into the proliferation of illegal drugs as alternative livelihood resulted to high crime incidence. Vera Cruz in his promised said the executive and legislative under the Regencia administration will not go in any way to get “kick back” or get contracts out of NSC operation.

Atty. Voltaire Rovera

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Director Linda O. Boniao said that DTI places as priority partner in the development.

Atty. Voltaire Rovira, Iligan City legal officer and head of the NSC Working Group (NSCWG), who is the architect of the tax delinquent recovery of NSC said that Iligan City Treasurer Louela Maybituin was the hero in the fight of acquiring the ownership of NSC. The government Treasurers has the sole powers to warrant tax delinquents.

Iligan City Mayor Celso G. Regencia said that NSC need Low cost electricity to sustain its future operation. The source of power to operate NSC is essentially coming from Hydro power plant of the National Power Corporation (NPC) that generates an average of 100 megawatts (MW) to be the potential power supply. Regencia said that mix power is disadvantageous and will not be used in the operation because of its high cost power rates, composed of power sources from diesel or bunker fuel generation, geothermal, coal among others.

Iligan City Mayor Celso G. Regencia

Regencia said that Iligan City is the host city of hydro power plants such as Agus Plant no. 5, 6 and 7, is entitled 25 percent priority load dispatch from generation in case of emergency crisis, especially that Mindanao still under Martial law and people are in need of jobs and livelihood to earn a living. The 3 hydro power plants situated in Iligan city estimated to produce at an average of 100 megawatts (MW) per power plant unit or a total of 300 MW estimated power production. at this point, the 25 percent load dispatch is equivalent to 75 mw more than enough to energize Iligan City including NSC operation which will need only 58 mw, said Regencia. The steel plant will bring raw materials to become an integrated steel plant to manufacture cars, shipbuilding, including arms and ammunitions, and other steel products.

Regencia said NSC tax delinquent is amounted to 4.6 Billion pesos from 2004 to date. From 1999 to 2004 the tax delinquent is amounted to 997 Million pesos only. Previous administration agreed to receive 140 Million from the Liquidator as compromise payment of tax delinquents in billions of pesos but only 130 Million pesos was allegedly officially received, said Regencia. The total asset of NSC is worth 20 billion pesos.

The 4.6 billion pesos through tax delinquent will served as an equity of the LGU as soon as the NSC will operate and will not be taken from the investors in order not to hamper their capital investments. At this point, the local government of Iligan City will allow at least two seats in the corporate board of director when the steel plant to operate soon.

Engr. Bert Oller, a former Manager of NSC and head of the technical study of the NSCWG said during the 1980s to 1990s, the operation of NSC was in a heyday.  Sometime in 1990 to1994 the NSC operation was privatized and operated by a Malaysian company and transfer to another Malaysian company. In 1998 to1999, NSC was totally closed.

In 2004, NSC was assumed by the Indian company, Global Steel Phils. Inc.. In June 2010, global Steel stopped their operation. Oller said that was the time that the Global Steel filed a case against the NSC liquidator questioning the NSC properties was not transferred to Global steel company. 

Oller said that NSC was on Auction sale started on October 19, 2016, by law the owner has one year to redeem property. The auction sale was closed after one year had lapsed, the LGU of Iligan through the City Treasurer forfeited the redemption. Oller said there is no need for court order of NSC ownership acquisition because all the procedure is within the bounds of the law. The first step is the acquisition of ownership the next step is to invite investors. There were already group of businessmen came and visited NSC, two Koreans, one Japanese and one local investors. The NSCWG was tasked by the Mayor to look all possibilities to talk, listen and ensure that the investor is really qualified of their capital investments and track record in operating steel plant. Photos by Jac Macatimbol.

64th Araw ng SND successfully held despite challenges on terrorism, highlights Triathlon and Tulingan Festival

By Jun Enriquez

Presidential table during the culmination program of the Araw ng SND with SND Mayor Ulwan Dimaporo (3rd right seated) beside him is Lanao del Norte Gov. Imelda "Angging" Quibranza Dimaporo.

SND, Lanao del Norte - Despite the issue on political dynasty in Lanao del Norte the Dimaporo political family served the people satisfactorily, this was the statement of Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza Dimaporo, Guest Speaker during culmination of the 64^th Araw ng Sultan Naga Dimaporo (SND) held October 4, 2017 with the theme, “Kalamposan diha sa Kalinaw” or the Success in Peace. The celebration was conducted for 3 days, October 2-4.

Gov. Angging Quibranza Dimaporo delivered a speech.

Lanao del Norte 2^nd district Congressman Abdullah “Bobby” Dimaporo and Congressman Khalid Q. Dimaporo, 1^st district Congressman of Lanao del Norte is the husband and son of Gov. Dimaporo respectively. She said that they talked what is good for the province of Lanao del Norte, bringing the government closer to the people.

In her message she said there is a need for unity to attain peace and despite the resolution of the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) on the withdrawal of police force deputized from the Provincial Government and some LGUs in the province, they did not cut their support to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and military. There was an alleged issue on private army in SND released in the national media that the said private army was started during the time of Lanao del Norte late Governor Ali Dimaporo, some five decades ago. SND is the hometown of the Dimaporo family.

Mayor Ulwan Dimaporo awarded the triathlon winners

Another allegation was the voters in SND only insects will vote in the area. Gov. Dimaporo said that the registration of voters in SND was renewed by the comelec to erase from the minds of the people outside SND that there is fraud during elections.

She said they met the Ambassador of the United States with Congressmen Khalid and Abdullah, asking assistance from the US intelligence to protect Lanao del Norte against terrorism. What they feared so much  is the recruitment of local terrorists the Maute group and ISIS offered 30,000 to 40,000 monthly pay to the recruited person which include their family monthly benefits. She said they were vigilant on the situation and prayed so hard not to happen in Lanao del Norte.

A replica of Ocean people during Tulingan Festival 

Lanao del Norte is free from threats and the provincial government will not allow the recruitment of local terrorists. Governor Dimaporo said if they know any Barangay or Municipality allows the recruitment of terrorist in their area will be their future enemy. What they received intelligence information that the next target of the local terrorist Maute group and Islamic state or ISIS is Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro City. She said Martial law in Mindanao declared by President Duterte is a big help to normalize the situation in Marawi crisis prevented the escalation of conflict and suppress violence and lawlessness. She said President Duterte won in Lanao del Norte and proud to have a President from Mindanao.

She extend her appreciation to the Local government unit (LGU) of SND for the successful celebration of the 64^th Araw ng SND lead by the young an d active Mayor Ulwan Dimaporo and with the able support of Vice Mayor Motalib Dimaporo, the father of the Mayor. The Triathlon sport is now became popular in SND. Gov. Dimaporo hoped to lift the the NAPOLCOM resolution for the benefit of the safety and security of the people in Lanao del Norte and maintain peace and order.

Mayor Ulwan Dimaporo answers media interview

Mayor Ulwan Dimaporo said the 64^th Araw ng SND was just a simple celebration yet worth enjoying. He said the successful celebration is fully supported by the Barangay Chairmen in 37 Barangays. He said the celebration will overcome the alleged issue on shabu laboratory in SND was already validated by the Chief of Police and the Provincial Director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) who conducted inspection for one week but nothing was found shabu laboratory including the alleged private army issue in SND town.

Mayor Ulwan said that the said issues were products of politically motivated and will not affect so far the normalcy of peace and order situation in SND. He said their support with the PNP and military still continue despite the resolution of NAPOLCOM for the withdrawal of the police force in SND Municipality. The 64^th Araw ng SND highlighted the activities on “Invitational Triathlon sports tournament” and the “Tulingan festival streetdancing” presentation.

People crowded at the entrance of SND  municipal hall

Lt. Col. Ericson Rosana (INF), Philippine Army, Battalion Commander of the 15^th Infantry “Molave Warrior” Battalion, Philippine Army  said the Araw ng SND held October 2-4 was very successful. He said the role of the military is to provide support operations for peace and development in the area with the Philippine National Police (PNP) led by Police Inspector Tago, SND Chief of Police. They conducted two checkpoints in Butadon, Kapatagan and in Pikalawag, SND to secure the celebration.

Rosana said that they did not receive any reports of recruitment of the local terrorist Maute group and ISIS in their area of responsibility. He said the conduct of the “Kalinga sa Bayan” activities for the youth and children  will prevent the possible recruitment of the youth on terrorism.  The LGUs in Lanao del Norte are supportive of the program that would last for 3 days. They already conducted the Kalinga sa Bayan in Nunungan and Magsaysay municipalities.  He said that the children are the important sector not to be recruited by the terrorist.

Lt. Col. Rosana with his men at 15th IB HQ in Salvador, LDN

Rosana said they conducted Lakbay-aral for the children and youth an educational tour for those who graduated from the Kalinga sa Bayan from Nunungan and Magsaysay, to educate the young people what is the real situation of the environment. They visited the National Power Corporation (NPC) Agus hydro power plant for them to understand the production of power, especially at Ma. Cristina falls. They also visited the Biak-na-bato in Bacolod historical site. They Also visited the city of Iligan to observe what is urban life situation. The youth and children participants also visited the military camp of 15th IB to know the life of the soldier.

Rosana said that the next schedule for the Kalinga sa Bayan activity is in SND on October 13-15. There will be 370 participants from the children and youth at 10 participants per Barangay for the 37 Barangays.

Mayor Ulwan Dimaporo said he will give his all-out support for the Kalinga sa Bayan ng SND because he believed that it is beneficial for the youth and children to educate about peace. He urged the parents to cooperate and advice their children to allow them to attend the said activity for the benefit of camaraderie and friendship to maintain peace and development. Photos by Jun Enriquez

Nationwide Peace Month Celebration culminates in Iligan City

By Jun Enriquez

Iligan City – Month of September is the observance of the nationwide Peace month celebration successfully culminated in Iligan City on October 1, 2017. The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) in cooperation with the Local government units (LGUs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) launched the 2017 National Peace Consciousness Month, A Solidarity for Peace with the theme “Puso para sa Kapayapaan Magkaisa para sa Bayan”. The activity was called Peace Buzz by holding peace caravan and peace rallies nationwide started in Baguio City on September 21; Quezon City Memorial Circle on September 22; Legazpi City on September 24; Catbalogan City on September 25; Butuan City on September 27; Davao City on September 29; Cotabato City on September 30 and Iligan City on October 1 held at the Iligan City Public plaza freedom park, the whole day event.

Mayor Celso G. Regencia, Iligan City 

Mayor Celso G. Regencia of Iligan City expressed his warmed welcome to the visitors, guests and the people of Iligan City who participated the event. Regencia expressed his commitments of extending help to evacuees with at least 100,000 Internally displaced people (IDPs) who are victims of the Marawi crisis now temporarily stayed in Iligan City evacuation centers. Regencia a former Police officer said he is not anti-Muslim, not anti-Moro and not anti-Maranao but he is anti-criminal and anti-terrorist ensures in maintaining peace and order of Iligan city despite the crisis in neighboring city of Marawi.

Iligan City Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz, a Priest on sabbatical leave, in his message said peace is not only the absence of war but the most important factor is to achieve genuine peace. Vera Cruz said genuine peace is to have better understanding across different cultures, good relations and respect among the people united despite diversity.   

L-r: USEC Andot; Vice Mayor Vera Cruz & City Councilor Plando

OPAPP Undersecretary (USEC) Diosita T. Andot, extended her thanks to the Local government unit (LGU) of Iligan City headed by Mayor Regencia of hosting plenty of IDPs in Iligan City and maintaining peace and order, and security for the protection of its people.

There is the presence of a strong family relationship to serve those relatives who are victims of Marawi crisis but in reality the host family will also have their own needs to survive. That’s why the government and the private sector have established cooperation because the government cannot work alone and needs help. She appreciated the LGU of Iligan of epitomizes what is peace in each heart of a person. It is a respect to others despite diverse cultures.  

USEC Diosita T. Andot, OPAPP

She extended her thanks to the people who help the IDPs affected the crisis in Marawi. The OPAPP gave peace citation award to Mayor Celso Regencia in appreciation of his peace efforts in behalf of the people of Iligan City. The Cordillera Regional government also offered the symbol of unity for the people of Mindanao.

Ms. Samira Gutoc, representing the CSOs, extended her thanks to the Iligan City government hosted at least 100,000 evacuees. She prayed for the freedom of the remaining hostages, 40 women and 30 men, under the hands of the terrorist Maute group. Hoping for a concluded crisis in Marawi so that they get back home. The Muslims are people of peace in every breath greets peace early in the morning daily.

Col. James Enriquez (left); Dr. Ali Laguindab (right)

Dr. Ali P. Laguindab, a Traditional leader (Sultan), academician and also an IDP, has a lot of learning insights. He said peace cannot be summoned but it should to do with peace. Love charity peace and good life. Marawi siege is just a beginning of something that have to learn.  There are challenges to go as one people. Sometimes ignore the commandments of God that allowed Marawi crisis happened. Before the siege Maranaos would like to go first especially in the bank before the others. But now here in Iligan city they will fall in line so there is learning of discipline.

Dr. Dipsy Maruhom (left); Jane Bernardo (2nd right)

Dr. Dipsy M. Maruhom, representing the Academe said her tears were already run-out. She hoped it will be the last bomb dropped in the morning in Marawi. She told to the people of iligan that Iligan and Marawi are one, during her elementary years in the 1960s the center of government was in Marawi, all major offices were in Marawi, the center of education was in Marawi. There was the Lanao School of Arts and Trade (LSAT) and the Lumbatan Agricultural College (LAC), the first President of LAC was the grandfather of Senator Teofisto Guingona III. The people from Iligan City will go up in Marawi to go on study. Marawi is the summer capital of the south, a beautiful place with hospitable people.

Atty. Dexter Rey Sumaoy

A Woman IDP representative expressed her sentiments said they have no choice but to stay in the evacuation center for their safety. As of now they already understand their situation to be in the evacuation center rather than stay in Marawi without nothing to eat. Youth representative, a student of the Mindanao State University (MSU) appreciated the Moro history of Mindanao started in the early 1970s up to the present. He preferred to continue his studies and still dreaming for the better future of the Bangsamoro especially hoping for the better Bangsamoro governance.  

Signature campaign for peace was conducted after the program with Atty. Dexter Rey Sumaoy, Iligan City Administrator, first signed the peace covenant followed by the CSOs, women, youth, among others. Food fair display at the freedom park were mostly IDPs entrepreneur. Children IDPs were also had a slogan writing contest initiated by the Balay Integrated Response for Total Human Development (BIRTHDEV) with ECOWEB, Inc. led the conduct of the program. Photo by Jun Enriquez; FB: Iligan City Web; with reports by Joan Eslit)

Iliganons celebrates fiesta 2017, pays tribute to Patron St. Michael the Arch Angel

 Jun Enriquez

Iligan City Patron St. Michael the Arch Angel in a procession of faiths from St. Michael's Cathedral go around the major streets in iligan City going back to the cathedral.

Iligan City – Part of the Catholicism history of the Philippines, Iliganons are known to be devoted to the Patron St. Michael the Arch Angel believed to be the soldier of God, the protector and Prince of peace. On September 29, 2017, the Iligan City and visiting parishioners lead by the Diocese of Iligan headed by Bishop Elinito Galido, hold the finale of the fiesta celebrations by conducting the kilometers-long procession of the Patron St. Michael the Arch Angel with thousands of parishioners coming from different places walked along the major streets in Iligan city from the St. Michael’s Cathedral Church go around the City and going back to the Church for almost 3 hours.

Mayor Celso Regencia (2nd front right) w/ City Councilor Huertas

Mayor Celso G. Regencia, in a radio interview said Iligan city Fiesta celebration will deliver a two face-message between the good and evil. Patron St. Michael the Arch Angel represents the good one and Lucifer represents evil. He said good will always prevail over evil. Mayor Regencia joined the procession of the faiths, He extended his thanks to the Police and Military including the force multipliers from the organized groups for providing security of the month-long fiesta celebration to maintain peace and order. He also extended his thanks and appreciation to the people of Iligan City for their support especially on understanding the importance of the curfew hour as a deterrent to possible crimes is a big contribution for the successful and peaceful fiesta celebration in Iligan City.  

He said despite the conflict situation in the neighboring city of Marawi, the fiesta celebration in Iligan City was very peaceful. This is a manifestation of people in unity fighting against evil with the able help of St. Michael the Arch Angel.

Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz, also a priest in St. Michael’s Cathedral is now on Sabatical leave for political reasons, extended his thanks to the power of prayers of the people with the help of St. Michael the Arch Angel for the protection and peaceful fiesta celebration of Iligan City. The Patron St. Michael is the protector and guardian of the people to make the place safe and peaceful Iligan city.

Col. Alex Aduca, Battalion Commander of the 4^th Mechanized Infantry Battalion,Philippine Army based in Camp Pintoy, Suarez, Iligan City extended his thanks for the cooperation of the people and the government for a safe, secure and peaceful fiesta celebration of the St. Michael the Arch Angel of Iligan City. he said the 4^th Mechanized Infantry Battalion in cooperation with the 5^th Mechanized Infantry Battalion and and 15^th infantry Battalion is providing proper security using the available resources to augment the Philippine National Police (PNP) and secure Iligan City in celebrating the half a month-long fiesta celebration from September 20 to October 2, was shortened by 2 weeks from previous celebrations. The most important activities are the “Pakanaog ni Senyor San Miguel”, Street dancing Parade, Procession of the faiths and “Pagpasaka ni Senyor San Miguel”

Aduca said security is the responsibility of everybody that’s why the community is also requested to help the military and Police through the force multiplier to secure Iligan city and has made possible response. Intelligence networks will involve the community to gather information and make reports to the Military or police whether it is true or not. Information gathering is a guidance of the security sector to provide appropriate security. Aduca said they cannot provide a soldier in every corner of the city or barangay to protect the people,.

Col. Alex Aduca, Phil Army

Aduca said the imposition of Martial law is a big help as a deterrent to the escalation of conflict in Marawi City and to suppress lawlessness and violence. The installation of checkpoints is a big help in preventing the plan of the criminals to create violence due to the visibility of the security forces to deny their attempt to conduct terroristic activities.

That’s why community is requested to help in at least gathering information at the minimum and report it to the police or Military to have a peaceful and secure community, Aduca added in a statement. With reports & photos by Bam Gimena and FB post.

Diyandi Festival 2017 - Viva Senyor San Miguel!

By Jun Enriquez

Video File: Diyandi Festival Street Dancing Competition 2017

Iligan City - "Diyandi" is a cultural and traditional practice of celebrating the death. This was known to the original people in Iligan when they were informed in a neighborhood that there is someone suffered from death so they will go for Diyandi.

On the other hand, Iligan City Fiesta is celebrating the victory of St. Michael the Arch Angel triumphant over the evil Lucifer the angel of the dark. The notion connotes that good will always triumph over evil.   

The Diyandi Festival in Iligan City was formally supported by a local ordinance to be celebrated every year during the period of the month of September. The Fiesta celebration of St. Michael the Arch Angel is on September 29 and every year thereafter. This year's Diyandi Festival activities will start on September 20 to October 2.

Patron St. Michael The Arch Angel, secured by Karancho

At 3:30 early in the morning on September 20, 2017, Karancho Lone district of Iligan City was tasked to provide marshal during the “Pakanaog ni Senior San Miguel” the Patron Saint of Iligan City will step down from the Altar. There were 700 Karancho members assisted the Philippine National Police (PNP) of securing the area around the St. Michael’s Cathedral. It was traditionally practiced by Iliganon parishioners that the “Pakanaog ni Senior San Miguel” is a Roman Catholic church event at St. Michael's Cathedral in Iligan City, will be done every 20^th of September the start of the fiesta celebration and also the day of the Opening salvo of the Diyandi festival and announcement of Fiesta activities. with reports & photo by Bam Gimena.   

House Speaker Alvarez anoints new PDP LABAN members in Mis Occ

By Jun Enriquez

PDP Provincial SEC GEN & Mis Occ Provincial Board Member Dan Navarro (2nd from left) welcomed in PDP shake hands with House Speaker Pataleon Alvarez, National SEC GEN PDP LABAN at airport in Ozamis City 

Ozamiz City - Partido Demokratikong Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP LABAN) held its Mass oath taking ceremony, September 7, 2017 at Our Lady of Triumph School Gym, Ozamiz City. There were at least 1,100 public officials composed of Barangay officials, local and provincial officials joined the PDP LABAN party.

Misamis Occidental is composed of two districts, District 1 and District 2. The District 1 is composed of one City (Oroquieta) and nine municipalities while the District 2 is composed of two cities (Tangub and Ozamiz) and five municipalities. Majority of the Mayors in the 1^st district joined the party. In the second district only one Mayor was absent during the oath taking ceremony.

Provincial Board Member Dan Navarro, Secretary General, PDP LABAN of Misamis Occidental said they invited House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, National Secretary General, PDP LABAN to officiate the mass oath taking ceremony of the new members of the political party. The PDP LABAN in Misamis Occidental is now the new majority party in the province, Navarro said.

Navarro said “you will not become a party member without undergoing the process of recruitment and attend party seminar.” President Duterte showed his party leadership convinced the local officials in Misamis Occidental to join the party. Governor Herminia M. Ramiro of Misamis Occidental was invited but did not shown-up for unknown reason. Ramiro is the party chairman of National Unity Party (NUP) in the province. 

PDP LABAN Mass Oath-taking rites

Misamis Occidental Vice Governor Aurora Virginia M. Almonte attended the oath taking ceremony. 2^nd district Congressman Henry S. Oaminal strongly supports the PDP LABAN in Misamis Occidental as well as 1^st district Congressman George T. Almonte.                                                                                            House speaker Alvarez gave updates of the business in congress to the new members of the party. Alvarez was expected to arrive at 12:00 noon or 1:00 PM but he arrived at 3:00 PM due to other two party membership oath taking ceremonies in other areas and Misamis Occidental was the third activity. The PDP LABAN of Misamis Occidental adopted the PDP kitchenette feeding program, with egg and arrozcaldo. Series of schedules in the province had been conducted

Navarro said Misamis Occidenal is generally peaceful and orderly despite of what happened in Ozamiz City on the killing incident of the late Mayor Parojinog and arrested others due to illegal drug related case. There are drug cleared Barangays in the province of Misamis Occidental declared by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). The local government of Ozamiz City is trying their best to become drug free City. Anti-drug program is now part of the Seal of Local good governance.

Rescue 911 Operation headquarter in Clarin, Miss Occ.

Navarro said Rescue 911 project focused its services in district 2 of Misamis occidental to monitor and evaluate through the online dispatch operational system and disaster preparedness purposes. The rescue 911 project had no support from the provincial government and not aligned at the Provincial Disaster risk reduction and management office (PDRRMO). However the rescue 911 will cover its services in the entire 2^nd district of the province will include the 1^st district if requested. The rescue 911 headquarters is based in municipal hall of Clarin Misamis Occidental seek support from the local governments in the second district to sustain its operation. Navarro was dubbed “daghang programa apan walay kwarta”

Tokhang Surenderees on SALTU seminar 

Navarro said SALTU program was established and started in 2015 due to limited resources for rehabilitation of the victims of illegal drugs is now a complete success. “Tokhang” surrenderees is the partner of SALTU program. SALTU means "Save the none users and Love The Users" program is awareness raising, planning top down and bottom up, identification of resources, organization and selection, training, etc.. SALTU program became good practice as evaluated by the PDEA.

Navarro said The PDEA reviewed and validated SALTU program. There were 20 out of 29 Barangays declared drug cleared in Clarin municipality. Some local government used the new name of the program, PWUD meaning Person who used drugs. It was observed that there is change of attitude of a person from being irresponsible person turn into a responsible family man or member. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) supported the PWUD program extended financial support for livelihood.

A building was donated amounted to PhP2 Million from the non-government organization (NGO) for the “Tokhang” surenderees rehabilitation and training such as Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training. The family members were also trained as volunteer to monitor their family members who are dependent on drugs or PWUD and report to the Barangay chairman or in SALTU office. As of latest police report Clarin is zero crime incidence and presently, per record there was no drug related killings in Clarin because of the presence of SALTU program.

The Rescue 911 and SALTU are twin programs conceptualized and implemented by Provincial board member Dan Navarro in partnership with the LGUs in the second district of Misamis Occidental. With reports from Mike Navarro; photo courtesy from BM Dan Navarro.