ItsMyOwn

ARMM Government to Flood Victims in Maguindanao

2013-08-05T14:10:00.000+08:00

photo by google

ARMM Government sends aid to thousands of flood victims in Maguindanao

Cotabato City – The newly formed Humanitarian Emergency Assistance and Response Team (HEART) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) kicks into action this week as days of torrential rains bring flood and displace thousands of residents in several communities in 20 of the 36 towns in Maguindanao province.

According to data released by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-ARMM flood-affected families number at around 48,870 in more than 158 communities in the province.

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman and Haroun Al-Rashid Lucman, vice-governor and concurrent DSWD-ARMM secretary, headed a team that set out Monday to bring aid to hundreds of families in the towns of Sultan Kudarat and Mother Kabuntalan.

Hataman said the relief is intended to help residents hurdle effect of the flood and prevent any casualty.

A second round of relief efforts pushed ahead Tuesday in Paglat and Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun despite the outbreak of a clash between government forces and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) along the main road leading to the two towns.

“We decided to take a different route and proceed with the relief in the two towns considering the conditions of affected residents,” the region’s executive secretary, Laisa Alamia said.

Relief packs included food items, mosquito nets, hygiene kits and drugs used to treat potable water.

Alamia said agencies that comprise the ARMM HEART are already accustomed to emergency response despite the early stage of its formation.

The ARMM government is working with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to capacitate the ARMM HEART.

An initial assessment of the ongoing relief was held today, Wednesday, to evaluate the extent of the flooding, the number of affected residents and assistance needed.

Rahima Datumanong Alba, DSWD-ARMM assistant secretary, said most of the affected families have sought shelter in the house of their kin and are considered house-based, while a few occupy classrooms or makeshift tents.

Department of Health (DOH)-ARMM will be watching out for diseases that can proliferate during floods, according to its assistant secretary, Dayang Carlsum Jumaide. (Bogs Sayson/BPI)

*all photos, courtesy of google*

ARMM Officialdome

2013-07-04T12:42:00.001+08:00

Mass Oathtaking Ceremony of the New Members of the Cabinet of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman adminidtered the said oath. Held at Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center, ARMM Compound, Cotabato City on July 02, 2013

" All members of my cabinet were chosen through their integrity and sincerity to Reform ARMM and willing to step-down for the Bangsamoro Government. Walang pabor-pabor sa aking administrasyon."

The OFFICIALDOME of Autonomous Region in Muslim in Mindanao

Members of the Cabinet

Regional Governor Hon. Mujiv S. Hataman

Regional Vice-Governor Hon. Haroun Al-Rashid A. Lucman, Jr.

Executive Secretary Atty. Laisa Masuhud Alamia

Deputy Executive Secretary Atty. Rasol Y. Mitmug, Jr.

Cabinet Secretary Norkhalila Mae B. Mambuay-Campong

Chief-of-Staff Norkhalila Mae B. Mambuay-Campong

In Acting Capacity

Regional Secretaries

DSWD Haroun Al-Rashid A. Lucman, Jr.

DAF Engr. Maritess K. Maguindra

DepEd Atty. Jamar Kulayan

DPWH Engr. Emil K. Sadain

DILG Atty. Anwar A. Malang

DENR Hadji Kahal Q. Kedtag

DOH Dr. Kadil Sinolinding

DOT Sittie Jehanne Mutin

DOST Myra M. Alih

DOLE Muslimin Jakilan

DTI Sakiran Hajan

Polloc Port & FMBS Atty. Mimbalawag T. Mangutara, Jr.

BFAR Janice Musali

RBOI Atty. Ishak V. Mastura

BME Alzad Sattar

RPMA Hanie Bud

CDO BYA Anway Upahm

RSCO Altrekee P. Dayan

BPI Amir Mawalil

BCH Ardan Sali

MLO Jolly Lais

ISS Abdul Rashid Ladayo

RHRC Atty. Galuasch Ballabo

DPWH Asec Engr. Don Mustapha Loong

DepEd Asec Noor Saada

2013-02-19T19:14:00.000+08:00

Public Schools Benefit from Seal of Good Housekeeping Award of the City Government

Additional classrooms will be constructed in several Public Elementary and High Schools in the City as part of the rewards the City Government acquired after being a recipient of the Seal of Good Housekeeping.

The Department of Education has allotted a certain amount for the construction of new classrooms by the Department of Public Works and Highways that will start on March 2013.

According to the DepEd, they have 2 lists of schools in Cotabato City. The first list was composed of L.R Sebastian Elementary School, Pilot Provincial Science and Technology High School, Datu Ayunan Elementary School, CCNHS-Annex (L.R Sebastian), CCNHS-Annex (PC Hill), CCNHS-Main, Datu Ayunan National High School, and Notre Dame Village National High School.

Aniceto Rasalan
Sec. to the Mayor

“This is only a partial list. Accoding to DepEd, there is a total of 16 Public Schools to benefit from the program. We are hoping that this can somehow help in addressing the problem of lack of classrooms in the schools in our city”.

2013-01-16T17:03:00.000+08:00

Use of “Blue Guards” during election period, opposed by Mayor Guiani

Cotabato City - Mayor Japal J. Guiani, Jr. has expressed his opposition to a position of the Comelec Resolution No. 1951 - A pertaining to the use of the services of private security agencies to serve as bodyguards during the election period.

In a letter addressed to Commission on Elections Chairman Sixto Brilliantes, Mayor Guiani has stated his fear that these private security agencies may be used, in one way or the other, by unscrupulous individuals of groups in partisan election activities.

“It is a fact that there are politicians, particularly in the ARMM, who own and operate private security agencies. Thus, these private security guards are primarily indebted and loyal to their employer and not to the one they are assigned to look after”,

Moreover, the Mayor stated that in Cotabato City, it is more preferred to have the members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines or the Philippine National Police be assigned to politicians as body guards because of the fact that their allegiance is to the Republic of the Philippines and are duty bound to uphold the law. They are unlike the “blue guards” who are beholden to their respective security agencies who have their own political affiliations.

Meanwhile, with the current gun ban, Mayor Guiani has requested the Philippine Marines and the City PNP to intensify their operation kapkap bakal in all their checkpoints, concentrating on motorcycles.

“We all know that the guns for hire are all reported to be riding in tandem on a motorcycle so we want to make sure that all motorcyclists getting inside the city have no firearms with them. But also, four wheel timevehicles must also be given proper inspection all the ”

Visibility patrols of the Philippine Marines will also be intensified. The motorcycle-riding MBLT-1 members are roaming around the city day by day and are also conducting surprise checkpoints in different areas.

Furthermore, a request has also been forwarded by the City Barangay Officials to the PNP and the Philippine Army stating their need for the presence of even just one uniformed member to join them in conducting patrols around their communities since their tanods are no longer allowed to carry firearms because of the existing gun ban.

Breaking of Jar.....

2013-01-16T12:33:00.001+08:00

What is the Significance of Breaking a Glass, Plates, Mirror and Jars…?

These belief started way back….and still practiced in our times….

In Beliefs & Traditions….

Some says, it shoos away bad luck…

Some says, it teaches us to remember and realized that in times of happiness there will always be sorrows and sadness…

Some says, it frightens evil spirit…

In Marriage….

Some says, it’s a reminder for the couple of their promises made…

In Politics….

Some says, it will take away all the bad lucks, experiences, sufferings and pain and broke it into small pieces… and eventually brings hope, respect, love, unity and peace….

Just like Governor Esmael G. Mangudatu, did. He broke jars after the 2^nd Regional Forum on The Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro held January 10, 2013 @ the Buluan Gymnasium Grounds, Maguindanao. Hoping for all the good vibes to come.

=========================================

It’s a simple thought and realization, that even in times of great happiness, we are always be mindful of our responsibility to help in relieving some pains and sufferings…and prayers will always be powerful…..

==============================================

Not all Cops are Bad.....

2013-01-16T09:56:00.000+08:00

Cotabato City cop, named one of the Most Outstanding in the Country

The City Government of Cotabato commends one of the city’s police officers after winning the 2012 Search for the Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service (COPS) sponsored by the Metrobank Foundation, Inc., Rotary Club of New Manila East, and PSBank.

( photo from: www.cops.ph )

Police Officer 3 Mary Jane Perez won in the Police Non Commissioned Officers Category. She is currently assigned at Police Station 4, Manday. Mother Barangay Bagua, this city. Perez is currently designated as the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), Family Juvenile Gender Awareness and Development (FJGAD), Police Community Relation (PCR), and the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) Officer.

PO3 Perez, a mother of four children, was chosen to be one of the winners because of all her accomplishments in crime solution including the arrest of a rape suspect, rescue of an abducted minor, and the arrest of a drug user. She also displayed exemplary performance in crime prevention and actively involved herself in advocating for peace in barangays, going around schools for the DARE program, and also helped in solving environmental problems by participating in tree planting activities and the de-clogging of the Rio Grande de Mindanao.

“I am very proud that out of the thousands of police officers in the country, PO3 Perez was chosen the prestigious award. I can say that this is a big accomplishment for our law enforcers and this award further proves to our people that we still have virtuous police officers in our area”, Mayor Guiani said.

City Mayor Japal J. Guiani, Jr. said he is very proud of a native Cotabateña who has given her full commitment to serving the people and protecting the most vulnerable sector of the community from abuses. He said the award given to PO3 Perez should serve as an inspiration and motivation for her fellow police officers to follow her example.

By winning in this search, PO3 Perez will join the elite roster of the outstanding police officers of our country and each of them will receive a trophy and a cash prize of 300,000 Pesos.

The awarding was held last September 5, 2012.

The One Who Completes Me.....

2013-01-14T09:44:00.000+08:00

************ ************ ************

2nd Regional Forum on FAB :-)

2013-01-14T01:36:00.001+08:00

Able to attend and witnessed “ The 2^nd REGIONAL FORUM on the FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT on the BANGSAMORO” held January 10, 2012 @ the Municipal Gymnasium of Buluan, Maguindanao. Hosted by the Provincial Government of Maguindanao under the Leadership of Hon. ESMAEL “Toto” G. MANGUDADATU.

The 5 Governors of the 5 Provinces of ARMM were in attendance together with the ARMM Governor himself Hon. Mujiv Hataman, Representatives of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Government of the Philipines, Mayors of the different Municipalities and other Honourable Gentlemen and Women, as well.

Hereunder are the 7 (seven) Resolutions Proposed, Presented and Approved:

1. A RESOLUTION NO. 001-13 – Earnestly urging the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Transition Commission to recognize the Vital and Indispensable role of Non-Muslims and Lumads in the meaningful implementation of the proposed Bangsamoro Government; (Proponent-MAGUINDANAO).

2. A RESOLUTION NO. 002-13 – Urging the GPH, MILF, and the 5 Provincial Governors of AMM to convene on the determination on the participation and representation of the LGU’S in the BANGSAMORO TRANSITION COMMISSION and BANGSAMORO TRANSITION AUTHORITY and for the other related issues and concerns; (Proponent-Tawi-Tawi).

3. A RESOLUTION NO. 003-13 – Commendation of Hon. ESMAEL G. MANGUDADATU, Province of Maguindanao for Hosting the 2^nd Regional Forum on FAB in MAGUINDANAO PROVINCE; (Proponent- Tawi-Tawi).

4. A RESOLUTION NO. 004-13 – Invitation to the next Regional Forum Constituents from the Plebiscitary areas outside ARMM; (Proponent-Basilan).

5. A REOLUTION NO. 005-13 – Reiteration of the RESOLUTION NO. 14 ADOPTED IN SULU LAST DECEMBER 04, 2012; (Poponent-Basilan).

RESOLUTION NO. 14-12

A RESOLUTION CALLING ALL THE GOVERNORS OF THE PROVINCES OF BASILAN, LANAO DEL SUR, MAGUINDANAO, SULU AND TAWI-TAWI TO CONSTITUTE A COORDINATION FORUM FOR THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT.

6. A RESOLUTION NO. 006-13 – Urging the 5 Governors of ARMM for a ADVOCACY CAMPAIGN on FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT on the BANGSAMORO in their respective Province using TRI-MEDIA and Providing funds thereof; (Proponent-Lanao del Sur).

7. A RESOLUTION NO. 007-13 – Urging the TRANSITION COMMISSION to conduct a Grassroot, Meaningful and Extensive Consultation on the Five (5) Provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as to the Proposed Basic Laws to be drafted by the Transition Commission as called for in Resolutions No. 4 & 5 series of 2012 during the 1^st Regional Forum on Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro held in the Province of Sulu on December 4, 2012.

===================== ====================== =======================

With these resolutions approved, may the REAL INTENTIONS AND MOTIVES of each individual be laid upon and not just for REEL, coz if I’ll translate its acronym “FAB” (Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro), it’s a short word for FABULOUS or FABULOUSITY.

SITUATION: A person must dressed in a FABULOUS way to gain an extreme attention and power, to be the centre of interests judged thru his outer appearance and not on what lies within…

===================== ====================== =======================

What, Why, When & How on FAB

2013-01-13T13:51:00.000+08:00

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON THE BANGSAMORO

WHO OR WHAT IS THE BANGSAMORO?

Ø Those who at the time of conquest and colonization were considered natives or original inhabitants of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago and its adjacent islands including Palawan and their descendents whether mixed or full native blood shall have the right to identify themselves as Bangsamoro by ascription or self-ascription. Spouses and their descendents shall also enjoy this right. The freedom of choice of other Indigenous Peoples shall be respected.

WHAT IS THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON THE BANGSAMORO?

Ø The Framework Agreement outlines the general features of the political settlement between the Government of the Philippines(GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front(MILF). It defines the structure and power of the Bangsamoro entity that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao(ARMM). It also sets the principles, processes and mechanisms for the transition until the regular election in 2016 for the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Political Entity. The Agreement paves the way forward to the just resolution of the historical divide between the Government and the Bangsamoro.

photo by: Zamboanga South Wall

WHY IS THERE A NEED FOR A FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT? ITS SIGNIFICANCE?

Ø The Framework Agreement puts together the points of consensus achieved in the series of talks between the GPH and the MILF that took off with the forging of the Ceasefire Agreement in 1997. It elaborates on the nature of the political entity that will replace ARMM. This new entity shall be called the Bangsamoro. The document also charts the road map or the steps and mechanisms for the transition leading to the creation of the Bangsamoro. The road map can aptly be described as an inclusive and people-driven process.

AFTER SIGNING OF THE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT, WHAT’S NEXT?

Ø The President will issue an Executive Order that will create the Transition Commission(TC). Eight (8) members of the TC shall be selected by the MILF; seven (7) shall be selected by the GPH. Both parties are committed to make the TC representative of the different sectors and groups in the Bangsamoro

Ø The TC shal work on a draft Bangsamoro Basic Law. The draft law shall then be submitted to Congress for deliberation. Once the Bangsamoro Basic Law is passed and signed by the President, a plebiscite shall be conducted in the envisioned cire territory of the Bangsamoro. Elections for the new Bangsamoro Government will held in 2016.

Ø As the TC is being organized, the panels will continue to work on the Annexes. Aspects of the Agreement that do not require legislative action, such as those on development and normalization, will simultaneously be implemented through the different joint transition mechanisms that will be created.

WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN TO THE ARMM?

Ø As envisioned, the Bangsamoro shall replace the ARMM. The ARMM shall continue to function until Bangsamoro Basic Law is passed and ratified. The law shall provide a transitory period whereby a Bangsamoro Transition Authority shall bridge the period between the plebiscite and the 2016 election. The Transition Authority shall prepare for the transformation of the region into the Bangsamoro.

IS THE BANGSAMORO AN AMENDED ARMM?

Ø No, it is not an amended ARMM, but a replacement of it.

HOW WILL THE BANGSAMORO GOVERNMENT LOOK LIKE?

Ø The Bangsamoro shall have a MINISTERIAL FORM. Voters will vote for political parties, and the parties who win seats in the legislative body shall elect the head of the Bangsamoro.

WHAT DOES A MINISTERIAL FORM OF GOVERNMENT MEAN?

Ø In a ministerial form of government, the people will elect their representatives to the assembly. This assembly will then elect its leader who will be called the CHIEF MINISTER.

WHAT IS THE GEOGRAPHICAL COVERAGE OF THE BANGSAMORO?

Ø The geographical scope of the Bangsamoro shall be determined through the plebiscite that will be held after the Congress passes the Bangsamoro Basic Law. The people will decide whether they will join the Bangsamoro or not.

The plebiscite will be held in the envisioned core territory of the Bangsamoro, namely the current ARMM provinces and MARAWI CITY; the cities of COTABATO and ISABELA; the six (6) municipalities in Lanao del Norte that voted for inclusion in the ARMM in the 2001 plebiscite (Baloi, Munai, Pantar, Nunungan, Tagaloan & Tangkal); and the barangays in the six (6) municipalities of North Cotabato province that likewise voted for inclusion in 2001 (Kabacan, Carmen, Aleosan, Pigkawayan, Pikit and Midsayap). Other contiguous areas where there is a resolution for inclusion from the local government unit or a petition of atleast 10 percent of the qualified voters may also join after the requisite plebiscite.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF PEOPLE REJECT THE BANGSAMORO ENTITY IN THE PLEBISCITE?

Ø If it is not agreed upon by the people themselves to establish the Bangsamoro entity, then there will be no mandate. It will mean that there will be no Bangsamoro and ARMM stays.

=FOR ME, ITS JUST A MATTER OF FAITH AND TRUST=

Thoughts....

2013-01-08T14:04:00.001+08:00

After a while I learn the difference between giving and receiving

And I learn that LOVE is beautiful

And I begin to learn that LIFE has meaning

And I begin to accept that huge trouble and constraints in my way with HEADS UP and EYES OPEN

And I learn to build relationships

And after awhile, I learn that even a “FRIEND” can’t be trusted and could make me cry.

And I begin to learn that my means are exhaustible,

After awhile, I begin to realized that worrying only brings destructions,

And I learn that I really can endure, that I really am strong…..

Yes, I begin to learn that some of my

DREAMS and HOPES came true…

Knowing Weather Forecast... is easy as 1-2-3

2012-09-14T13:30:00.000+08:00

Automated Weather Station, to be installed on city hall grounds

The Local Government of Cotabato City will soon be able to give up-to-date information about the weather with the installation of the Automated Weather Station on the People’s Palace’s grounds.

This project is jointly sponsored by the Aboitiz Group of Companies, League of Cities of the Philippines, Unionbank, and Weather Philippines and amounts to 2,500 U.S Dollars or more than a hundred thousand pesos.

This device is composed of an Integrated Sensor Suite (ISS), an Anemometer, a Console, and a metrilog. These will be used to measure the temperature, humidity, wind, and the amount of rainfall that will be helpful in monitoring the weather in the city and be able to minimize the risk of a disaster.

With it, we will be able to determine whether a typhoon or simply a Low Pressure is approaching the city, hence, we will be able to prepare ourselves. We will also be able to calculate the amount of rainfall and its effects on the city’s main tributary—the Rio Grande de Mindanao.

The AWS is solar powered so there is no need for electricity, thus making it operational 24/7. It also requires very low maintenance and is very user friendly. However, installing this equipment has its conditions such as placing it under direct sunlight and avoiding obscurations like buildings or trees—all of these discussed in a training-workshop attended by some representative from the City Engineering Office and Secretary to the Mayor Aniceto V. Rasalan.

“We don’t have the schedule yet as to when the Automated Weather Station will be installed on the city hall grounds but once it is already in place, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) will be the ones to handle the equipment”, Rasalan said in a presscon held Tuesday-September 9, 2012 .

Along with the unit comes a console to be set up at the Radio Room inside the city hall. The AWS will automatically send the data it has gathered to the console every 15 minutes. It will also send data to Weather Philippines, a group helping the PAGASA in monitoring the country’s weather.

Once a weather update will be complete, the city government will be releasing information to the public thru the local media.

Seal of Good Housekeeping for Cotabato City

2012-09-14T11:25:00.001+08:00

Cotabato City Government receives Seal of Good Housekeeping

Cotabato City now reaps its rewards and receives the Seal of Good Housekeeping for its full commitment to the principles of performance, accountability, transparency, and participation.

Ever since the release of the DILG Memorandum Circular 2012-78 titled Scaled-Up Seal of Good Housekeeping, the local government, headed by City Mayor Japal J. Guiani, Jr., has been working hard to comply with all the requirements needed in order to receive this prestigious award.

Along with the SGH came the amount of 50 Million Pesos from the National Government and will be used to finance several development projects in the city. Priority projects will include the improvement of the delivery of services concerned with the better health and wellbeing of the city’s constituents and the education of the youth sector.

Mayor Guiani also added that he will be looking into the plight of the Cotabateños residing beside river banks and bring them to safer grounds.

Aside from the 50 Million Peso reward, the city was also a recipient of almost 30 Million Pesos for its Performance Challenge Fund—also one of the rewards for receiving the Seal of Good Housekeeping. All of these will be used to fund several development projects identified by the City Government.

“We feel happy for this prestigious award and we would like to thank our City Government employees for their support. This award is dedicated to the people of Cotabato City”, Mayor Guiani said.

Out of 100 cities competing for the award, Cotabato City was chosen to receive the SGH Bronze.

( DILG City Director Guinodin Abdillah hands in the Award to Mayor Jojo J. Guiani, Jr. )

As explained in the DILG Memorandum Circular 2012-78, there are three award levels of the Seal—SGH Bronze, SGH Silver, and SGH Gold.

The SGH-Bronze Award is given to Local Governments who passed the criteria in Accountable Governance and Transparent Governance.

These are reflected by the documents like the Annual Budget for the General Fund of Cotabato City, Summary of Expenditures, Statement of Cash Flows, Statement of Debt Services, Assets, etc., being posted in conspicuous places like bulletin boards and other materials that are visible to the public and being placed in the local government’s website—all of which were fulfilled by the LGU.

“There are levels of compliance required to be posted and published in the local media but we are not able to do so due to the voluminous pages of all the documents”, DILG City Operations Office Director Guianodin Abdilah said.

Abdilah further adds that the awarding doesn’t stop here. The City Government is still aiming for the SGH Silver and SGH Gold awards.

A number of evaluators will be coming to the city in the next weeks to see to it that the Full Disclosure Policy is still observed by the local government. After the evaluation, they will determine if the city has surpassed the criteria for the SGH Silver Award.

Furthermore, Mayor Guiani said the SGH has both been a challenge and a motivating factor for his administration. Despite all the issues confronting the City Government regarding peace and order and other matters, he is still putting primacy to good governance and transparency.

“This is very challenging. One needs to have a broad perspective on things so our goals for the city will be attained especially when it comes to good governance and at the same time be able to solve problems regarding the peace and order situation in our area”, Guiani adds.

Who's Who???...

2012-08-30T08:11:00.001+08:00

In the recent encounter of the BIFF and the AFP, started August 5, 2012

ISSUES:

Pronouncement of BIFF spokesman Abu Misri Mama that the military drive against them has little effect and they will continue to wage a "JIHAD" - a holy war to achieve their goals.

6th ID

We are not concerned of our effect on BIFF. Our main concern is the safety, welfare and well-being of those affected by the atrocities of the BIFF. We want to ensure that civilians are unharmed and protected, the situation is brought back to normal and people continue to lives without fear of violence or retribution.

My Own observation

Who attacked first?

Who's telling the truth?

Who will prove all that been said and done?

Who will control the situation?

Who will investigate the real scenario?

Who will testify then?

One thing I am sure of.......the Civilians, the Innocents and the Children are really affected and suffering in this man-made incidents....

Can you discuss everything and lay all the problems and find genuine solutions, to stop all this violence?...and kindly BE SINCERE to what you have been agreed upon

photo: So What's New

Let's have a GENUINE PEACE so that we can have a DEVELOPMENT in this part of MINDANAO.

photo: google

My Very 1st....

2012-08-28T11:17:00.001+08:00

Accidents really is not a joke, after I experienced my very 1st car accident yesterday-August 27, 2012 along the National Highway of Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, though its not that tragic but still I realized that Life can easily be taken away from us.

I am very thankful that the 3 of us were safe, managed to drive home and still able to wrote this blog.

Thank you BLC for your call, emotional support & encouragement. I'm stunned. Though trauma is still here, I'm praying that soon it will be gone.

A Smell of Freshly Brewed Coffee is coming to Cotabato City

2012-08-24T23:41:00.000+08:00

1^st Coffee Summit to be held in Cotabato City

photo by: google

August 22, 2012 – Preparations are now underway for the conduct of the Coffee Summit, a first in Cotabato City.

The two-day activity will be spearheaded by the Metro Cotabato Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the City Government, other business chambers, and the USAID-GEM Program. A Coffee Forum will be held on September 20, 2012 wherein representatives from the Philippine Coffee Board, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, and others will be invited to speak to the participants about the coffee industry. On the next day, a Coffee Brewing Contest that is open to interested contestants will be held.

photo by: google

MCCCIFI President Dr. Danda N. Juanday says the Coffee Summit will be a catalyst for the development of a new and unique product option that can help rouse the city’s economic boost, as well as to serve as the venue for laying down of strategies for the City to launch itself as the trading center for coffee lovers and producers.

The primary purpose of this event is to create awareness among the stakeholders/sectors and the producers of the opportunities in the coffee industry. The same is over and above the possible job and revenue generation that may result in the sustained development of the coffee processing industry.

In Cotabato City, one can say that the people are really coffee-loving ones, evidently shown beside the streets and market places where brewed coffee products are conveniently available. But because of the other industries, like rubber production, that have dominated the economy of Region 12, coffee production is dramatically diminishing.

With the huge demand for coffee all over the country, MCCCIFI sees the opportunity to revive the interest of farmers in Cotabato City and its neighboring municipalities in the coffee production business.

“It is the opportune time that the city comes up with its own Cotabato brand coffee. And we are also known for the native delicacies we serve our visitors, so it is just proper that we also showcase our unique tasting coffee”, says Juanday.

In a meeting with the representatives from the local government, it was further discussed that coordination be strengthened in order to promote this business and create a window of opportunity to Cotabateños who are involved in the production and processing of coffee products.

Secretary to the Mayor Aniceto V. Rasalan says the city government is ready to extend any type of assistance to this project. Once implemented, coffee industry will surely help boost the economy of the city.

photo by: MCCCIFI

Mayor Guiani: Unexpected Death of Sec. Robredo

2012-08-22T08:49:00.003+08:00

MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCE

City Mayor Jojo Guiani, Jr., together with the whole City Government of Cotabato, is deeply saddened with the death of DILG Sec. Jessie Robredo. The Mayor extends his sympathy and prayers to the family and friends of the late Secretary and says..........

photo by: dzmm.com.ph

“ Robredo was truly a great loss to the government. He had been very active in supervising the operations of all the local government agencies. Robredo has been in the City for several times especially when disaster struck last year. Cotabato City has been awarded the Seal of Good Housekeeping by DILG for adhering to the thrust of PNOY on transparency in government services.”

Rest In Peace, Sec. Jesse...

A place called BUMBARAN

2012-07-23T13:49:00.001+08:00

What comes into your minds if you hear the place BUMBARAN MUNICIPALITY in LANAO DEL SUR?

* a war place,

* a rebel camp,

* or a non-developed area of a certain province.

I am sure that descriptions mentioned above match some of your thoughts, and yes its true but that was years and years ago….because, at present BUMBARAN MUNICIPALITY stood from its past and it is one of the largest corn and banana producer in the province. It’s not just their agricultural products that this town can be proud of, because......

A year ago, I was given the chance to join the Tri-Media Tour and we headed to the said Municipality. I’m excited and curious as well, for all of what I’ve heard and been said to this place. Now, it’s my pace to discover the Town.

We went straight ahead at the Municipal Hall to give courtesy and we were welcome with all smiles by their Municipal Mayor and offered to stay at their place.

with my Media friends and officials of DSWD-ARMM

I was really mesmerized with its scenic beauty and climates similar to that of Baguio City. My curiosity and indifference with the place were all paid out beyond expectations.

Scenic view from the Balcony of the Manabilangs House

cottages where we stayed located inside the compound of Manabilang's,
built intended for the Family's guests and visitors

Grabbing my opportunity to take a pose with the Father and Son of the BUMBARAN Municipality

with Mayor Mastura Manabilang

with Vice-Mayor James Manabilang

ItsMyOwn: LAKE RESORT in LAKE SEBU

2012-07-14T12:58:00.001+08:00

ItsMyOwn: LAKE RESORT in LAKE SEBU: Its my 3rd time to be in Lake Sebu, Surallah, South Cotabato. 1st was way2x back 2005, when i was still connected with ABS-CBN TV-24 Korona...

LAKE RESORT in LAKE SEBU

2012-07-14T10:49:00.002+08:00

Its my 3rd time to be in Lake Sebu, Surallah, South Cotabato. 1st was way2x back 2005, when i was still connected with ABS-CBN TV-24 Koronadal, we have a coverage then at Mountain Log Resort. 2nd, was last month and 3rd was just last week, July 7, 2012.

It was indeed a memorable experienced, I'm with my kiddo and we stayed at Estares, Lake Resort, one of the pioneering resorts in the area. They have this 5 in a row Gono or VIP Huts located in a cliff with a very nice view of the Lake, costs only Php800/nyt.

My daughter and I took 774 steps down to see the breathtaking Falls 1, one of the 7 falls in the area. The luscious green surroundings and the sound of the water cascading/falling did took my breath away. You can really feel the breeze and the mist touching your skin. That I cant help myself to took pictures and pictures of the falls. ;-)

And when you're in Lake Sebu, you have and must to taste all their Tilapia Delicacies, highly recommended the Estares Pinaputok na Tilapia, Tilapia Spring Roll and the Tilapia Chicharon.

photo by: Estares Lake Resort

RAMADAN AL-MUBARAK

2012-07-12T14:40:00.000+08:00

Ramadan is the month of Fasting, where one is abstaining from eating and drinking of food and avoiding earthly pleasures from dawn till sundown, coupled with intentions of doing so is an act of worship.

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is Obligatory to all Islam Believers who reached his Age of Puberty, Sane and able to Fast, for Fasting is One of the Five Pillars of Islam.

THE 5 PILLARS OF ISLAM

1. IMAN of FAITH - a declaration of Faith is called Shahadah, only purpose of life is to serve and obey God, and this is achieved through the teachings and practices of the Last Prophet - Muhammad (s.a.w.)

2. SALAH or Prayer - it is an obligatory prayers that are performed five times a day.

Fajr - early dawn prayer before sunrise ( b/n 4:00 - 4:30am )
Zohr - after midday prayer ( b/n 12:30 to 2:30pm )
Asr - late afternoon prayer (b/n 3:30 to 5:00pm)
Maghrib - before sunset prayer ( b/n 6:00 - 6:30pm )
Isha- late evening prayer ( b/n 7:30 to 11:30pm )

3. ZAKAT or Giving ALMS- a financial obligation to all Muslim.

photo by: Reem

An individual may give as much as he or she pleases for giving Zakat it is an act of Charity

4. SAWN or FASTING - abstaining from eating and drinking foods and sexual relations/acts from dawn till sundown. God states in the Qur'an: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may learn self-restraint." (Qur'an 2:183).

5. HAJJ or PILGRIMAGE - the pilgrimage to Mecca is obligatory for those who are physically and financially able to do so.

photo by: Spirit Tourism

Individuals or persons who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing, are excused or permitted not to Fast during the month of Ramadan but they must to pay an equal number of days later in the year if they are healthy and physically able to do so.

MBLT-1 HOTLINE NUMBERS

2012-07-12T09:56:00.001+08:00

MARINE BATTALION LANDING TEAM-1

Padlan Compound, Brgy. Rosary Heights

Cotabato City

HOTLINE NUMBERS

0917 305 5814

0999 711 2769

LANDLINE NUMBER

064 421 8857

contact the above numbers, to report any crimes and incidents that may hinder the peace and order of the City.

.....SADNESS AND PAINS.....

2012-07-09T12:43:00.001+08:00

why does happiness always has its sadness? and sometimes coupled with hurts and pains.

do people have to experienced these kinds of challenges in their emotional aspects?

if you broke your heart, how can you mend it without crying those tears?

are we really meant with each other, and live together as one?

or, we have to cherished every times and moments we shared for us to thank if it comes to an end?

neither myself or any experts can give answers on this...it is indeed ironic that we have to live then sooner or later, we will die and leave everything behind...

ItsMyOwn: iWalk for Peace

2012-07-03T01:27:00.001+08:00

ItsMyOwn: iWalk for Peace: iWalk for Peace , a project of the Rotary International, organized by Rotary Club of Cotabato , Cotabato East and Cotabato City...

iWalk for Peace

2012-07-03T01:19:00.001+08:00

iWalk for Peace, a project of the Rotary International, organized by Rotary Club of Cotabato,Cotabato East and Cotabato City-South in partnership with the City Government of Cotabato, held July 01, 2012.

5 starting area points were identified

1. City Plaza

2. In front of the Polytechnic School

3. In front of Papa 2 – Police Station (Shell Station)

4. Jolibee Drive-thru and;

5. In front of Marian Hills Cemetery (D.O.S, Maguindanao).

Father Eliseo Mercado, a well-known peace advocate were among of the thousands walkers from the different sectors in the City and nearby Towns/Province joined the said walk for peace.

Peoples Palace Grounds served as the “finished area”. A simple program were conducted. Presidents of each Chapter delivered/shared their messages “calling for Peace”.

Highlights of the activity were the flying of Doves and Balloons as a symbol of Peace.

MAYOR Japal "Jojo" J. Guiani, Jr. - Welcome Address

2012-07-03T01:11:00.001+08:00

Mayor Guiani, delivering his welcome address to the partcipants of the 38th Regional Development Council 12 held last June 26, 2012 at Southseas Mall - Cotabato City.

Hon. DARLENE MAGNOLIA R. ANTONINO-CUSTODIO

Chairperson of the Regional Development Council 12;

Hon. RAMON FLORESTA, Co-Chairperson of RDC-12;
Hon. Gov. EMMYLOU MENDOZA of Cotabato Province;
Hon. Governor MIGUEL RENE DOMINGUEZ of Sarangani
Hon. Gov. SUHARTO MANGUDADATU of Sultan Kudarat;
Hon. Governor ARTHUR PINGOY, JR. of South Cotabato;
Hon. Mayor RODOLFO Y. GANTUANGCO of Kidapawan City;
Hon. Mayor PETER MIGUEL of Koronadal City;
Hon. Mayor LINA MONTILLA of Tacurong City;
Representatives from the NEDA National Office
Heads of the various national line agencies
Representatives from the private sector
Guests, ladies and gentlemen….

Good morning and welcome to Cotabato City!

It is indeed a great privilege for us to host the 38th Regular Meeting of the Regional Development Council 12.

As I welcome you to our city, may I take this opportunity to present our Pillars of Development for Cotabato City.

Foremost of which is transparency and accountability in governance thru wider participation of the private sector and other civil society organizations.

This has resulted in a balanced budgeting and increased revenue collection.

A clear manifestation of this is our city being elevated to a first class city category from being a third class city two years ago.

Moreover, the City of Cotabato was accorded the Seal of Good Housekeeping by the DILG and is a recipient of the Performance Challenge Fund.

Another major pillar of development is on health and medical care services.

In support to this, we increased the number of our medical doctors. We also released the additional allowance to our health workers, as provided for under the Magna Carta for Health Workers.

Likewise, we purchased additional medical equipment and a brand new ambulance.

By the way, we are also contemplating on putting up a so-called “Health and Wellness Complex” at the former site of the Cotabato Public Hospital at the PC Hill area.

This complex will, basically, be a complete hospital and rehabilitation facility. It is a socialized medical center wherein those who cannot afford to pay will be subsidized by the city government, while those who can pay will be billed accordingly.

Our third pillar of development is on the aspect of environmental protection and sanitation.

We are all aware of the importance of protecting and preserving our environment, and at the same time promoting good sanitation.

That is why we are strongly pursuing our Solid Waste Management Program, advocacy for organic agriculture and the adaption of “Green Technology.”

Our fourth pillar of development is on the maintenance of peace and order and the upholding of law and order.

Along this line, we have installed closed-circuit television cameras in crime-prone area of the city. Before the end of the year, we will be installing 24 additional CCTV surveillance cameras.

We are contemplating on having all nooks and crannies of the city covered with CCTV security surveillance cameras by 2013.

Finally, our fifth pillar of development is on the aspect of infrastructure support services and facilities.

Along this line, we have started to embark on a massive construction of the much-needed facilities and services in order to attract more investments.

We know that there is still a long way to go before we can be classified as a highly-urbanized city. But we are confident that we can attain it.

I have full confidence on the resilience and determination of the Cotabateños.

Walang imposible kung lahat tayo – Muslim, Kristiano at Lumad – ay magtulong-tulong upang makamit natin ang ating minimithing kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa ating bayan.

Thank you very much and wassalam!