Mindanao Schools Get 23,000 Books From The Asia Foundation

SOUTH COTABATO, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 06, 2008) – The Asia Foundation donated 18,000 books Thursday to more than 400 schools in Mindanao and pledged to release more in the southern Philippines.

“We will release more books in southern Philippines and we are so happy to help support basic education program in the region,” said Efren Balajadia, director of the Books for Asia Program, of The Asia Foundation.

Balajadia said they distributed books and other reference materials in Koronadal City and in South Cotabato province. He said they will also release 5,000 books Friday in at least 155 schools in General Santos City.

“Today, we released 18,000 books in 440 mostly public schools in Koronadal and South Cotabato province and we will donate 5,000 more books on Friday in schools in General Santos,” he told the Mindanao Examiner.

In December, Balajadia’s group also donated books and reference materials to Gov. Sakur Tan of Sulu province during a two-day peace caravan. Balajadia said they will continue to support the education program in Sulu, one of five provinces under the Muslim autonomous region.

Dr Steven Rood, country representative of The Asia Foundation, said the distribution of the books in Mindanao is made possible through The Asia Foundation’s Transparent Accountable Governance (TAG) project with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The provision of books and other educational resources serves as a joint commitment in the campaign for education among communities in South Cotabato and General Santos, he said.

Balajadia also quoted Ky Johnson, the deputy country representative of The Asia Foundation, as saying: “The Asia Foundation is happy to be able to provide educational resources in order to make a difference in the lives of school children in South Cotabato and General Santos.”

“All members of society have to take on the responsibility of mobilizing their resources to create an impact on the performance of their young leaders. With the help of our local governments and private partners, we can help each community as we bring learning to all deserving schools throughout Southern Mindanao and the rest of the Philippines.” Balajadia said.

Since 1954, Books for Asia program has been committed to the belief that knowledge and education are critical for Asian nations to advance their citizens and societies. The program puts nearly one million up-to-date books and resources of the highest quality into the hands of students, teachers, and librarians in 17 Asian countries each year, according to The Asia Foundation.

“Education forms the foundation for all prosperous and democratic societies,” Jon Lindborg, USAID Philippines Mission Director, said in a statement. “The U.S. Government is very proud to support the work of dedicated organizations like The Asia Foundation and committed schools and communities across Mindanao to help improve educational opportunities for school children and young scholars.”

USAID's program in the Philippines, valued at approximately $80 million in 2008, focuses on strengthening peace in conflict-affected Mindanao, promoting good governance, increasing economic opportunities, protecting the environment, strengthening health services, and improving basic education.

Last year, The Asia Foundation, a non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to the development of a peaceful, prosperous, just, and open Asia-Pacific region, provided more than $68 million in program support and distributed 974,000 books and educational materials valued at $33 million throughout Asia. It depends solely on monetary contributions from donors to accomplish its work.

Reynald Ocampo, Assistant Program Officer-Books for Asia Program, acknowledged the unrelenting support of public and private partners in the endeavor and said U.S. publishers have supplied the books while the Aboitiz2go helped shipped them to Mindanao.

“We are happy to help and look forward to providing more books to other areas in Mindanao,” Ocampo said in a separate interview. (With a report from Mark Navales)

RP Muslim Rebels Losing Patience Over Peace Talks

Top photo shows MILF rebels gather in a plenum in 2004 in Mindanao and rebel chieftain Murad Ebrahim with US Ambassador Kristie Kenney during their meeting February 2008 in Sultan Kudarat province. (Mindanao Examiner Photo/Mark Navales)

COTABATO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 06, 2008) – Thousands of Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels are expected to gather in the southern Philippines to discuss the slow progress of the peace talks with Manila.

The MILF previously appealed to rebels and supporters for patience as the talks stalled over demands for a separate Muslim homeland in the strife-torn, but mineral-rich region of Mindanao. “We will discuss many things, especially the stalled peace talks, and consult with our members,” Mohagher Iqbal, chief MILF peace negotiator, said.

In 2004, the MILF also held a plenum in Sultan Kudarat province drawing close to about three million Muslims demanding independence in Mindanao.

The MILF, the country’s largest Muslim rebel group, accused Manila of reneging to its commitment after peace talks failed in September in Malaysia, which is brokering the negotiations. Iqbal described the gathering, which will begin over the weekend, as a “rare opportunity to let the Muslims know the progress in the seven-year old peace talks.”

Last month, US Ambassador Kristie Kenney met with the secluded MILF chieftain Murad Ebrahim and discussed the peace process in Mindanao. The US had in the past offered as much as $30 million to fund development projects in Muslim areas in the southern region should the MILF signed a peace deal with Manila that will put an end to more than four decades of hostilities in Mindanao.

Iqbal said the Philippine peace panel last year agreed on the scope of the Muslim ancestral domain, but later reneged on the accord that will constitute a separate homeland for over 4 million Muslims and indigenous tribes in Mindanao. ”This ugly turn of event in the peace process is taxing the patience of the MILF and the Bangsamoro people, who may be compelled to resort to other means, pacific or otherwise, of resolving the Mindanao conflict when they are pushed to the wall and become hopeless in the present peace process,” Iqbal said.

The MILF said government negotiators headed by Rodolfo Garcia completely disregarded the agreement on the ancestral domain and insisted again that the granting of homeland to Muslims in Mindanao would solely be through Constitutional process which the rebel group previously opposed. But the Philippine Constitution prohibits the dismembering of the country.

“This stance of the GRP peace panel has virtually jeopardized the integrity of the peace process and to continue with the talks would virtually turn it into a circus,” Iqbal said.

The ancestral domain which covers the whole of Muslim autonomous region and other areas in Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani provinces where there are large communities of Muslims and indigenous tribes. And even Palawan Island in central Philippines and the Sulu Archipelago.

President Gloria Arroyo opened up peace talks with the MILF in 2001. The prospect of resuming the stalled peace talks remains unknown and this is further aggravated by anti-Arroyo protests and street rallies over accusations of corruptions and scandals in the government.

Peace talks had been stalled after both sides failed to agree on the scope of the ancestral domain, which is the single most important issue in the peace negotiations before the rebel group can reach a political settlement.

Mohammad Ameen, a senior rebel leader, previously said the MILF will only sign a peace deal with Arroyo government if it establishes genuine governance for Muslims either in the form of “state” or “sub-state”.

The MILF earlier warned that hostilities may erupt in Mindanao if the peace talks fail or if Malaysia pulls out its truce observers from the International Monitoring Team in Mindanao, whose 16 million populations included four million Muslims. The IMT is composed of 41 officers from the Malaysian Defense Forces, the Royal Malaysia Police, and the Prime Minister’s Department and is also supported by 10 military officers from Brunei Darussalam and 5 from Libya. Japan also has a member in the IMT.

But analysts fear that Arroyo or her allies in the House of Representatives might use the peace talks with the MILF as an excuse to amend the Constitution to change the system of government from presidential to parliamentary or federalism to allow the MILF to have a separate state and eventually prolong her into power beyond 2010.

Under the presidential form of government, Arroyo, who deposed President Joseph Estrada in a people power revolution in 2001, is allowed only one six-year term.

In the charter change proposal suggested by her political allies who dominate Congress, she can be elected as prime minister should Congress dissolve the Senate and change the system of government to parliamentary. (With a report from Mark Navales and Merlyn Manos)

Photo: Winners Of The Child-Friendly Cities, Municipalities In Philippines

Regional winners of the 2007 Presidential Awards for Child-friendly Cities and Municipalities in Region XI in Mindanao pose with their awards Wednesday March 5, 2008 in Koronadal City in South Cotabato province. The recipients of the awards are Mayor Elsie Perrett (4th from right) of Maitum town in Sarangani province,(for the 1st to 3rd class municipalities) and Mayor Antonio Damandaman (3rd from right) of Sto. Nino town in South Cotabato (for 4th to 6th class). These towns represent the region in the national search. (Photo by Beth Palma Gil - Maitum Municipal Information Office/Mindanao Examiner)

The Asia Foundation Distributes Books In Southern Philippines

Efren Balajadia, the Director of the Books for Asia Program, of The Asia Foundation, hands over books and reference materials to Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan and Vice Gov. Lady Anne Sahidullah and other provincial officials headed by Patikul town Mayor Kabir Hayudini during a two-day peace caravan in Sulu province. The Asia Foundation will distribute 20,000 books on Thursday and Friday, March 6-7, 2008 in South Cotabato province and General Santos City in southern Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner Photo/Nickee Butlangan)

KORONADAL CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 05, 2008) – The Asia Foundation will release some 20,000 children’s books and reference materials to 560 schools in the southern Philippines.

Steven Rood, Country Representative of The Asia Foundation, said they will distribute the books at separate ceremonies on Thursday and Friday in South Cotabato province and General Santos City.

The donations, he said, are part of The Asia Foundation’s Books for Asia program. The distribution of the books in Mindanao is made possible through The Asia Foundation’s Transparent Accountable Governance (TAG) project with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Among key people who are invited to grace the occasion in South Cotabato are Koronadal City Mayor Fernando Miguel, South Cotabato Governor Daisy Fuentes and other government and education officials.

Mayor Pedro Acharon and Congresswoman Darlene Custodio will also lead the ceremony in General Santos City.

The provision of books and other educational resources serves as a joint commitment in the campaign for education among communities in South Cotabato and General Santos.

“The Asia Foundation is happy to be able to provide educational resources in order to make a difference in the lives of school children in South Cotabato and General Santos.”

“All members of society have to take on the responsibility of mobilizing their resources to create an impact on the performance of their young leaders. With the help of our local governments and private partners, we can help each community as we bring learning to all deserving schools throughout Southern Mindanao and the rest of the Philippines,” said Ky Johnson, Deputy Country Representative of The Asia Foundation.

Since 1954, Books for Asia program has been committed to the belief that knowledge and education are critical for Asian nations to advance their citizens and societies. The program puts nearly one million up-to-date books and resources of the highest quality into the hands of students, teachers, and librarians in 17 Asian countries each year, according to The Asia Foundation.

“Education forms the foundation for all prosperous and democratic societies,” Jon Lindborg, USAID Philippines Mission Director, said. “The U.S. Government is very proud to support the work of dedicated organizations like The Asia Foundation and committed schools and communities across Mindanao to help improve educational opportunities for school children and young scholars.”

USAID's program in the Philippines, valued at approximately $80 million in 2008, focuses on strengthening peace in conflict-affected Mindanao, promoting good governance, increasing economic opportunities, protecting the environment, strengthening health services, and improving basic education.

Last year, The Asia Foundation, a non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to the development of a peaceful, prosperous, just, and open Asia-Pacific region, provided more than $68 million in program support and distributed 974,000 books and educational materials valued at $33 million throughout Asia. It depends solely on monetary contributions from donors to accomplish its work.

Reynald Ocampo, Assistant Program Officer-Books for Asia Program, acknowledged the unrelenting support of public and private partners in the endeavor and said U.S. publishers have supplied the books while the Aboitiz2go helped shipped them to Mindanao.

“We are happy to help and look forward to providing more books to other areas in Mindanao,” Ocampo told the Mindanao Examiner.

In December, the Asia Foundation led by Efren Balajadia, the Books for Asia Program Director, also donated books and reference materials to Sulu province during a two-day peace caravan. Balajadia said they will continue to support basic education program in Sulu. (With reports from Mark Navales and Nickee Butlangan)

Lawyers Deny Issuance Of Arrest Warrant vs Salapuddin - GMA TV

MANILA, Philippines - Lawyers of former Basilan Rep. Gerry Salapuddin on Wednesday dismissed as a part of a "disinformation campaign" reports that a Quezon City court ordered the former congressman's arrest, along with three other suspects in the November 13, 2007 Batasan blast.

The Salacnib F. Baterina Law Office released a statement saying the report was "unfair," noting that the court has yet to decide whether there is probable cause against Salapuddin, who was implicated in the deadly explosion that killed Salapuddin's political rival Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar killed and five congressional employees.

"We call on responsible journalism as we deplore the disinformation campaign regarding the alleged issuance of a warrant of arrest against our client, former Congressman Gerry A. Salapuddin," the statement read.

"We view such disinformation as part of a demolition job to condition the public against our client in spite of his innocence and to unduly pressure the court in which the question of whether there exists probable cause to hold our client for trial now pends. This disinformation campaign goes against the basic rules of fair play and due process. It must not be tolerated by, and has no place in our free and respected media institution," it added. - GMANews.TV

Photo: ARMM Cops Vow Stronger Anti-Gambling Drive

Philippine National Police chief in the Muslim autonomous region, Joel Goltiao, smashes a confiscated illegal video machine as Shariff Kabunsuan Provincial police chief Esmael Pua Ali, right, looks on during a symbolic ceremony in the renewed campaign against illegal gambling games in Camp Salipada K.Pendatun in Shariff Kabunsuan Province. Police have intensified its drive against illegal gambling and warned illegal gambling financiers and operators to stop their nefarious activities. The regional police command has been also named as the Most Cleanest and Greenest in the Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner Photo/Mark Navales)

Giant Bats, Tarsiers And More...And Maitum Town

Thousands of fruit bats or the “Golden Crown Flying Fox and Giant Flying Foxes” (Pteropus vampyrus) fly Tuesday, March 04, 2008 in the village of Ticulab in Maitum town in Sarangani province. The village is a known habitat of these bats and has become a tourist attraction in southern Philippines. Considered as the world's largest bat, the animal’s wing-span is about 6 feet and it weigh more than one kilogram. Other flora and fauna found in Ticulab are wild orchids, horn bill, eagles among others species.

Maitum is known for the discovery of very old cave artifacts called Maitum Anthropomorphic Potteries in one of the caves nearby. It is bordered on the west by the province of Sultan Kudarat, on the east by the municipality of Kiamba, on the north by the province of South Cotabato, and on the south by the Celebes Sea.

The economy of Maitum is largely based on agriculture and is often called the "rice-granary" of Sarangani due to its high level production of rice. Aqua-culture is the second biggest income earner, notably the culture of milkfish (bangus), prawns (particularly giant prawns) and shrimps for export. Other agricultural products are coconuts, maize, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples, mangoes, pork, eggs, beef, and fish. Maitum is also a food basket nationally famous for its dried fish.

The economy has accelerated in the past decade driven by advances in global communication technology and the finishing of a modern highway that tremendously improved trade and transport.

Another sensational event was the discovery of the existence of tarsiers in its mountainous areas. The presence of tarsiers has eventually attained official recognition.

Caves and the rainforest of Maitum are the natural habitat of a rare fruit bat species called Giant Golden-crowned Flying Fox (Acedoron jubatus). The rare Writhed-billed Hornbill and Tarictic Hornbill are also found in the surrounding rainforest. The Philippine Eagle (a monkey-eating eagle) also thrives in the area.

The endangered Hawksbill Turtles have their nesting grounds in Maitum's former main village called "Old Poblacion".

Other wild animals are wild boar, Bryan James, deer, monkeys, and various species of snake.

According to local folklore, "Maitum" refers to the black stones in Saub River. It is believed that the river stones turned black when the local native princess and her warrior lover passed through it as they eloped and escaped from the wrath of the princess' father who disapproved their marriage.

"Maitum" is a native word meaning black. In 1928, Maitum became part of the municipality of Kiamba. It became a separate municipality on May 7, 1959 through Republic Act 2189. (Photo by Afren de Guzman / Maitum Municipal Information Office, Wikipedia)

Photo: Mutya Ng Dabaw 2008

The beautiful ladies in the Mutya ng Dabaw 2008. Details of the events and other information about the 71st Araw ng Dabaw celebration can now be accessed online through the www.arawngdabaw.com -- the website, created and maintained by Digilution, an international Davao-based IT company, features this year’s celebration with news updates, calendar of events, photo gallery and a forum where online visitors can share their thoughts about the celebration. (Ian Garcia)

Prayer, Anti-Corruption Rally All Set In Zamboanga

ZAMBOANGA CITY - As public outrage against high-level corruption in government continues to snowball, different religious groups will hold a protest and prayer rally on Friday in Zamboanga City.

The interfaith rally, dubbed as "Heal Our Land", aims to gather hundreds of people in a symbolic solidarity act to bring back the moral values among political and government leaders and ultimately put a stop to corruption in the system of government, the Inter-religious Solidarity Movement for Peace (IRMSP), one of the organizers, said in a statement relased by the Peace Advocate Zamboanga)

At least five religions -- evangelicals, Muslim, Subanon, Buddhist, Catholic -- will offer respective prayers during the rally. The two-hour event will be highlighted with the singing of Jamie Rivera's "Heal our Land" and Freddie Aguilar's "Ang Bayan Ko."

Torches will also be lighted to symbolize the Filipino's "quest for truth" in the wake of the flawed and overpriced $329-million National Broadband Network (NBN) deal with China's ZTE Corp. which President Gloria Arroyo scrapped five months later after the scandal brokeout.(Darwin Wally Wee/PAZ)

Sarangani Folks Unite For Peace and Progress

Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene Dominguez speaks to villagers in Alabel town. (Photo by released by the Sarangani Provincial Information Office / Mindanao Examiner)

SARANGANI, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 04, 2008) - Local government officials have sought community cooperation and support for stable peace and order condition in Alabel town in Sarangani province.

Governor Miguel Rene Dominguez, who led municipal officials to the village of Datal Anggas on Tuesday , gave the opportunity for locals to air their sentiments and get government attention to improve their living condition. "Kailangan naming ang inyong suporta at kooperasyon," (We need all your support), he told the villagers.

Dominguez asked them to list down the basic services they needed so local government could take proper actions. The municipal government has built a water system sourced from a spring that now benefits more than 80 households in the village belonging to the B’laan tribe. A nursery for 10,000 rubber trees was also constructed late last year in Datal Anggas and nearby villages.

Last year, dozens of New People’s Army rebels who surrendered to the military are now beneficiaries of government agricultural programs. Most of the lands they till are planted to corns. "Salamat sa tulong ng gobyerno sa amin," (We thanked the government for this support), former rebel, Roger Tartisan, said.

A livelihood training on basket weaving for former rebels and women was also conducted by cellular phone giant, Globe Telecom and ABS-CBN Bayan Foundation's BridgeCom sa Bayan, in partnership with the provincial government of Sarangani and the Alcantara Foundation.

Roads were also built in the village. Purok Chairman Victor Moda said the completion of a six-kilometer Ihan-Kalbangan road through the food-for-work program would enable children to go to a primary school two kilometers away from the purok center.

Lt. Col. Manuel Sequitin, commander of the Army’s 66th Infantry Battalion, also put up a post in the village to ensure the security of the locals.

Court Orders Arrest Of Salapuddin Over Batasan Bombing - Manila Standard Today

Akbar's supporters during a rally in Basilan province in southern RP. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

A QUEZON CITY judge has ordered the arrest of former Basilan Rep. Gerry Salapuddin and three other people for the bombing at the Batasan Pambansa on Nov. 13 that killed five people, including Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar.

Judge Ralph Lee of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 83 ordered Salapuddin, Harajun Jamiri, Benjamin Hataman, and PO1 Bayan Judda arrested after they failed to attend yesterday’s arraignment on the case.

Prosecutors had added the four as suspects to the charge sheet, but they ignored the summonses sent to them.

The government is expected to issue a hold-departure order against all suspects in the case.

Two of the three suspects in the bombing, Caidar Aunal, Ikram Indama and Adham Kusain, refused to file a not-guilty plea, leading the court to do so for them.

Only Indama, who may turn state witness, filed a not-guilty plea.

Earlier, the lawyer for Aunal and Kusain asked the court to defer the arraignment pending the appearance of the four other suspects led by Salapuddin.

But Lee dismissed the motion saying the four could be arraigned on another day and time.

Defense lawyers protested yesterday’s arraignment, saying they had a pending petition for review before the Department of Justice.

The justice department issued a resolution on Feb. 29, so the defense still has 11 of the 15 days that state prosecutors gave them to comment on the charges.

The Batasan blast killed Akbar, Marcial Taldo, Jul-Asiri Hayundini, Maan Gale Bustalino, Dennis Manila and Vercia Garcia.

Wounded in the attack were Rep. Henry Teves, Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan, Ismael Lim, Kimhar Indanan, Larry Noda and Paula Dunga. (Joel M. Sy Egco)

US Submarine, Special Warfare Support Vessel In South RP

SSV C-Champion at sea.

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 04, 2008) - The 220-feet SSV C-Champion is visiting Zamboanga City in southern Philippines.

The US military in Zamboanga City has invited local journalists for the tour of the SSV C-Champion, one of five Submarine and Special Warfare Support Vessels that are part of the 30 ships in Military Sealift Command's Special Mission Ships Program.

The US military did not give details about the SSV C-Champion, but the Military Sealift Command's Special Mission Program controls at least 30 ships that provide operating platforms and services for unique US military and federal government missions. Oceanographic and hydrographic surveys, underwater surveillance, missile flight data collection and tracking, acoustic surveys and submarine support are just a few of the specialized services this program supports.

Japanese media members have spotted the ship off the Sulu Archipelago last week and reported seeing many Americans on board.

Special mission ships work for several different US Navy customers, including the Naval Sea Systems Command and the Oceanographer of the Navy.

Both civil service and contractor-employed mariners operate the special mission vessels. Technical work, survey operations and communications are conducted by embarked military personnel, civilian scientists and related technicians.

The SSV C-Champion is manned by 14 crew members and 30 personnel.(Mindanao Examiner)

Arroyo Did It Again!

Gabriela Women's Party Congresswoman Luz Ilagan (seated, middle) poses with supporters during the launching of the Babae Laban sa Katiwalian (Babala) on Tuesday, March 04, 2008 in Davao City in southern Philippines. They are also calling for the resignation of President Gloria Arroyo over corruption scandal in her administration. (Photo by Keith Bacongco / AKP Images)

MANILA, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 04, 2008) – Filipino leader Gloria Arroyo on Tuesday again promised to step down after her term ends in 2010.

Arroyo, hounded by allegations of poll fraud and accusations of corruptions and scandals involving her family, also said several years back that she will not seek election in 2004, but ran against more popular movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. who died of aneurysm while campaigning.

“Until that day, I will continue to push for reforms so I can hand over a strong nation to the next leader,” she said.

She made the announcement before signing into law the Civil Aviation Authority Act (CAAA) of the Philippines of 2008 in at Malacanang. “I will be true to the Constitution and to myself who has been mandated to leave the post when my term ends in 2010,” she said.

Arroyo assured her audience that included Vice President Noli de Castro, legislators and the diplomatic community, that “in the Philippines, there is and there shall continue to be due process, rule of law, and utmost respect for the Constitution. This is my pledge to you as your President and commander-in-chief.”

She added that she agrees with her critics that the law and the country should be above politics and personal popularity.

She pointed out that she would “adhere to the law because this was what every elected official has promised to do even if my critics refuse to understand and give political color to it.”

“That is why we uphold the principle of due process in investigating and adjudicating criminal allegations against any citizen, whatever the political cost. No one’s rights must be sacrificed just to spare government from the ire of protesters and the fire of politicians,” the President said.

After the CAAA signing ceremonies, a Cabinet meeting was held at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room to discuss the International Law of the Sea and the Philippine claim over resource areas within the country’s territory, including the Spratley group of islands.

“Through this claim, we shall advance the rights and interests of our nation in harnessing these rich resources,” Arroyo said.

Opposition politicians and civil society and religious groups are demanding that Arroyo resign because of corruption scandals involving the flawed and overpriced national broadband network deal with China’s ZTE Corp. Arroyo cancelled the project five months later after the Senate launched a series of investigation over the allegations. (Mindanao Examiner)

Photo: Filipinos Protest BHB Billiton Mining In South

Villagers oppose stage a rally Monday, March 3, 2008 in front of the BHP Billiton's office in Mati town in Davao Oriental province to protest its mining operation in Mount Hamiguitan, a protected area and considered as a sacred mountain, in the southern Philippines. BHP Billiton is the worlds largest mining company as a result of a merge between Australia's BHP and the UK's Billiton. (Photo by Keith Bacongco/LRC-KSK)

Photo: Mangrove Poles For Sale

A lumber yard in the southern Philippine province of Sulu sells mangrove and bamboo poles in the town of Jolo. The illegal cutting of mangrove in Sulu continues unabatedly and environment authorities are virtually helpless in stopping the locals from destroying the marine habitat of many sea animals and fishes. Locals used the mangrove as poles for thatched houses and as firewood. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

Photo: Balikatan In Palawan Province In Philippines

U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Paul Jones helps mount a marker on one of the two newly-constructed classrooms at the Balabac National High School in Palawan province during his visit on Monday, March 3, 2008 as Balabac Island Mayor Shuaiv Astami looks on. The engineering project, which also included repairs on old school buildings, was part of the 24th annual Balikatan humanitarian assistance program conducted in various locations in Mindanao and Palawan and elsewhere in the Philippines. The Balikatan team also provided free medical and dental care to approximately 2,500 island residents. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communications Specialist Second Class Joshua J. Wahl released by the US Embassy to the Mindanao Examiner)

Philippine Tobacco Institute Hails Court Ruling On Cigarette Ads Ruling

MARIKINA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 04, 2008) - The Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI) on Tuesday hailed a recent ruling by the Marikina Regional Trial Court (RTC) permitting cigarette advertising signs on top of convenience stores.

It said the decision on outdoor tobacco advertising is a clear ruling that cigarette advertising signs on stores and other similar materials at point of sale outlets are allowed by law.

"We welcome the decision. The court has spoken and it is now incumbent on all stakeholders to abide by the ruling," PTI President Rodolfo Salanga said in a statement.

"This simply means signages on top of sari-sari stores are permitted," Salanga said.

With marketing restrictions imposed by the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (TRA), Salanga said the ruling will guide their member cigarette companies in responsibly marketing their products to their adult customers.

Salanga said Marikina RTC Judge Alice Gutierrez finally cleared ambiguities on the definition of the word 'premises' under the TRA or Republic Act 9211.

The ruling settled the dispute on the term's definition within the Inter-Agency Committee on Tobacco (IACT), the body created to oversee the implementation of the TRA.

Fortune Tobacco Corp. (FTC) earlier instituted a declaratory relief action with the Marikina Regional Trial Court on permissible advertising within the premises of point-of-sale establishments to secure clarity on differing views.

FTC posited that the word "premises" must be given its common ordinary meaning.

Judge Gutierrez said that "the term 'premises' is clearly visible in the text of Sec. 1.18 of the Implementing Rules & Regulations of the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 as plain and unmistakable as the nose on a man's face."

This section defines "premises" as a "tract of land and the building and buildings thereon, including the open spaces between buildings located on the same tract of land and within the perimeter of the said track of land."

"This Court fails to see how a different interpretation could arise even if the plain meaning rules were disregarded and the law subjected to interpretation," the judge said.

She also stressed that "the interpretation of the law subscribed to by respondents is too restrictive. It is an elementary rules that when the words and phrases of the statute are clear and unequivocal, their meaning must be derived from the language employed and the statute must be taken to mean exactly what it says."

"To go beyond the clear and ordinary import of the words in fact used and in this case with a clear and definite meaning imparted to them the very law making authority would be tantamount to transcending the words of the legislature. In effect, we would essentially be on un-chartered waters."

"Simply put, under the statute it is clear that the area where permissible outdoor advertising may be placed is broad enough to include all areas within the perimeter of said track of land where a paying patron can purchase or obtain tobacco products. Other than that, no other condition has been imposed by the law."

Anti-tobacco advocates wanted cigarette advertising signs removed from stores and public places and have urged Congress to pass a law that will compel tobacco firms to put a bigger warning on label saying that “cigarette smoking kills.” (With a report from Mark Navales)

Photo: Sarangani Province Governor Miguel Rene Domingues Inspects Fishing Boat

Governor Miguel Rene Dominguez inspects the aft of a wooden fishing vessel Monday, March 03, 2008 at the boat-making facility run by a cooperative in the village of Lumasal. The boat is built with some 27,000 board feet of common hardwood harvested from the Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) area of LUPA (Lumasal-Pananag) Integrated Ecological Resources Multi-purpose Cooperative.

Executive Order No. 263 dated 19 July 1995 adopted the CBFM as the national strategy to ensure the sustainable development of the country's forestland resources and provided mechanisms for its implementation. Participating organized communities may be granted access to the forestland resources under long-term tenurial agreements, provided they employ environment-friendly, ecologically sustainable, and labor-intensive harvesting methods.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall work with local governments, people's organizations, non-government organizations, religious groups, business and industry, and other organizations to ensure that communities are empowered to initiate and achieve the objectives of EO 263.

And after the inspection, Dominguez delivers a message during a consultation with CBFM members and regional officers of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources also in the village of Lumasal. Aside from the responsibilities of the CBFM holder as stipulated in the CBFM agreement, DENR Administrative Order 2000-29 (Guidelines regulating the harvesting and utilization of forest products within Community-Based Forest Management Areas) also mandates that people's organizations granted with Resource Use Permit (RUP) ensure that the harvesting of forest products will be done in the most economical and ecological manner.

Among the safeguards to be observed by the CBFM holder is to refrain from the use of heavy equipment such as bulldozers and the like and much as possible must employ labor intensive methods of harvesting. (Mindanao Examiner / Photos by the Sarangani Provincial Information Office)

RP Halal Program Gets Big Support

Themed "The Halal Market - The Best Market Place for Mindanao Economic Growth," the Department of Science and Technology in Region 12 opens a two-day program for the development of the halal industry in the Philippines and launches its 1st National Halal Forum at the Phela Grande Convention Center in General Santos City on February 29, 2008.
Government officials from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Thailand, Malaysia and representatives from different national agencies join DOST-ARMM Secretary Macacuna Pangandaman (left); DOST Under Secretary for Research and Development Graciano P. Yumul Jr.(2nd from left); Chairman of the National Halal Forum and DOST-XII Regional Director Dr Haja Bai Sittie Shayma Zenaida P. Hajiraof-Laidan (center) during the cutting of the ribbon.
The Halal Science Technology and Innovation of the Philippines will enter into $600 billion halal market program for the development of the industry in the country.

(Mindanao Examiner Photo/Mark Navales)

"Angels Of Hope" Bring Miracles In Southern Philippines

Sarangani Vice-Governor Steve Solon, right, looks at the surgical procedure being done by Samuel Evans, an American doctor, to Salvio Trinidad whose lump (cyst) on his shoulder was removed after 7 years in a school clinic in the village of Kling in Kiamba town on March 1, 2008. Trinidad, is one of 65 indigents from remote villages of the province who availed free surgical operation by Doctors Samuel Evans and Peter Autchinson.(Photo by Gandhi C. Kinjiyo)

SARANGANI, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 03,. 2008) – At 37, Salvio Trinidad has finally freed himself from the burden he carried on his shoulder for more than seven years.

After an hour of operation, a cyst as big as a chicken egg, was removed from his left shoulder for free. And For Trinidad, who hails from the Kiamba village of Kling, even to see a specialist will surely cost him a lot.

Being a laborer who is paid to carry loads of lumber for a living, the free surgery means a lot.

“The lump on my shoulder worried me a lot for seven years. I’m afraid it is already a cancer,” Trinidad said.

Trinidad, is one of 65 indigents from remote villages of Sarangani province who availed the three day free surgical operation by two American doctors -- Samuel Evans and Dr. Peter Autchinson.

Trinidad expressed his deep gratitude to Dr Eans who performed the operation. Evans and Autchinson were tapped by the local government of Sarangani to sponsor minor operations for free.

The medical outreach mission, which ended March 1, was spearheaded by the offices of the Governor and Vice Governor of Sarangani with the support of the municipal governments, non-government organizations and volunteer medical practitioners.

More than 1,000 people from the villages of Kling, Upper Biangan and Malandag in Malungon town benefited from the surgical and dental missions.

In Malandag, a team of dentists from Metro Gensan Dental Society also provided their services in celebration of the National Dental Health Month with the theme “Isang Siglong Pangangalaga ng Ngiting Pilipino Kaisa ng Bung Mundo.

Dentists Joel Aklan, Ma. Theresa Antoque, Claris D. Cereso, Asesclo and Leonora Madrid gave their services to beneficiaries in Brgy Kling and its nearby villages Gasi, Lagundi, and Kayupo. Board Member Nicanor Balian and Kiamba Councilor Rosemarie Young, both dentists also shared their free service.

Provincial Health Officer, Dr Antonio Yasaña, Dr Roel Cagape, Dr Edwin Pinili, and Dr Elmer de Peralta, the vice-mayor of Kiamba attended the medical needs of the beneficiaries composed of Muslims, Christians and Lumads of Kling and adjacent villages.

The medical mission was a success through the manpower and other logistics provided by the Barangay Council of Kling, Upper Biangan and Malandag, the Local Government Units of Kiamba under the leadership of Mayor Rommel Falgui and Malungon under Mayor Bongbong Constantino, the Provincial Health Office, the PROBA, and Kalinaw Sarangani Unit.

Karl Vincent M. Quiepo, Executive Director of RD Foundation brought medicines that catered 250 beneficiaries in Kling. Other medicines were provided by the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team, the municipal government of Malungon and the PHO.

The Lingap sa Mamamayan project of Mayor Constantino, provided residents with Agri-tech support such as seeds and seedling dispersals as well animal vaccination were provided in Upper Biangan and Malandag. The same were given in Kling.

The Philippine National Red Cross also held a blood drive in the village of Kling. Villagers called local officials and those who participated in the medical missions as "angels of hope." (Gandhi Kinjiyo)

Get Out! Rebels Tell US troops In Philippines

DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 03, 2008) – Communist rebels demanded the withdrawal of all US troops in the Philippines as both countries ended a two-week joint military training on Monday.

The rebels also criticized the military's cover-up of soldiers accused of killing 8 innocent villagers during an alleged firefight with Abu Sayyaf militants last month in Sulu's Maimbung town.

"Last week's move by the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) to absolve its soldiers and US troops in the February 4 massacre of eight civilians in Maimbung town, Sulu only bolster what the ongoing RP-US military exercises in Mindanao is all about: there is nothing humanitarian at all in its much ballyhooed humanitarian missions in the island," Rubi del Mundo, spokesman of the National Democratic Front in Mindanao, said in a statement sent to the Mindanao Examiner.

The NDF has previously demanded targeted US troops deployed in the Philippines, a key US ally in the so-called global war on terror. The NDF, the political wing of the outlawed Communist Party of the Philippine and the New People's Army are included in the US list of foreign terrorist organizations.

US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney said the Balikatan 2008 held in the southern Philippines were purely humanitarian missions. But Philippine and US forces held joint combat maneuvers in Luzon.

Del Mundo also assailed Kenney and branded her as a "US psychological warfare expert." "Humanitarian missions are psychological warfare tactics for US Imperialism to win the hearts and mind of the people as these are but a ploy to divert their aggressive military and economic objectives in the country."

"It is but part of US war of aggression to desperately save its sagging economy and to protect its trade routes, market and influence against impending threats from China. At the same time, it is to protect economic interests and multi-billion dollar prospective investments in southern Mindanao region and in the whole Mindanao Island where large oil, energy, mineral and metal deposits and rich agricultural lands are flourishing," he said.

The rebels abandoned peace talks with Manila in 2004 and said they would only resume negotiations if Washington removes them from the terror tag.

Last week, rebel forces killed three government soldiers and wounded six more in a clash in the outskirts of Davao City, a known NPA stronghold in Mindanao. (Mindanao Examiner)

Philippine Electricty Market Board Has New Prexy

The Philippine Electricity Market (PEM) Board has appointed a new Rules Change Committee (RCC) Chairperson.

Dr. Phares P. Parayno takes over from Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC) President Lasse A. Holopainen who served as chairperson of the committee since 2003.

The RCC, which pre-existed the PEM Board, has been instrumental in revising and proposing amendments to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) Rules. "I am glad to have had the chance to serve as chairman of the committee and I am confident that Dr. Parayno will bring a fresh perspective and new energy to ensure continuing improvement of the WESM Rules," said Holopainen.

The turnover was conducted during the annual RCC Planning Session recently where the committee also outlined schedules and priorities for the year.

"It is a great honor to chair the Rules Change Committee of country's first and only electricity spot market. As chairperson, I will ensure that the WESM rules are fair to all the market participants," said Parayno who has been a member of the RCC since 2005.

Dr. Parayno, a BS Chemical Engineering graduate of the University of the Philippines, finished his Ph. D. in Energy Management and Environment Policy from the University of Pennsylvania. Currently, Dr. Parayno is the Chairperson of the Department of Environment of Miriam College.

The RCC is mandated to provide assistance to the Philippine Electricity Market (PEM) Board and the Department of Energy (DOE) in revising and proposing amendments to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) Rules. The Committee assesses proposed changes or amendments and recommends these changes based on its feasibility and consistency with the objectives of the market.

The RCC composition mirrors that of the PEM Board with sector representation comprising 15 Committee members. Currently composed of 12 members with 10 sectoral representatives and 2 independent members, the committee should reach full complement by the first half of the year.(Michelle de Guzman)

Mindanao Examiner Mar. 3-9, 2008

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North Cotabato Solon Favors Women In Constitutional Bodies

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 03, 2008) – North Cotabato Rep. Emmylou Mendoza said she favors the selection of highly qualified female nominees to fill at least four vacant posts at three independent constitutional bodies -- the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Audit (COA) and Commission on Elections (Comelec).

"We will definitely gladly receive highly capable female candidates to the open slots," said Mendoza, who is also a member of the Commission on Appointment.

"The empty posts provide the administration a great occasion to designate female nominees who, by their perceived independence and indisputable probity, will unmistakably convey the administration's resolve to further improve governance," she said in a statement sent to the Mindanao Examiner.

Last month, Karina David and Guillermo Carague completed ended their terms as chairpersons of the CSC and the COA, respectively, leaving the posts vacant.

Meanwhile, at the Comelec, only four commissioners have been attending to election duties following the retirement of Resurreccion Borra and Florentino Tuason Jr. last month.

Malacañang recently designated Jose Melo as the new Comelec chief, but he has refused to assume his new post until the CA confirms him. Commissioner Romeo Brawner is now acting head of the poll body, which is supposed to have seven members, including the chairperson.

Without a chairperson, only Commissioners Reynaldo Villar and Juanito Espino Jr. are now attending to the duties of the COA.

Also without a chairperson, only Commissioners Cesar Buenaflor and Mary Ann Fernandez-Mendoza are now attending to the duties of the CSC.

As the country’s supreme audit institution, the COA has the mission to promote "good governance with the attributes of honesty, transparency, accountability, credibility, efficiency and effectiveness to enhance trust in the government and foster a better quality of life for the Filipino people."

The COA has the power and duty to audit and settle accounts pertaining to revenues and receipts, as well as expenditures or uses of funds and property owned or held in trust by the government; prescribe government accounting and auditing rules; and recommend measures to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations.

The CSC is the government's central personnel agency tasked to render final arbitration on disputes and personnel actions on civil service matters. It is also responsible for the recruitment, building, maintenance and retention of a competent, professional and highly motivated government workforce truly responsive to the needs of the public.

Meanwhile, Mendoza has urged the business sector to give preference to women, cultural minority members in hiring policies. Mendoza said many firms abroad have their own affirmative action plans.

She cited the case of the US, where such plans are required of firms holding government contracts worth over $50,000 or around P2 million.

According to her, the Western concept of affirmative action in hiring and employment policies goes beyond non-discrimination by taking purposeful efforts and specific actions to advance the rights of qualified women and cultural minority group members.

"This means that, given two equally qualified job seekers, firms are encouraged to give preference to either a woman or minority group member," she said.

Mendoza said companies should adopt more progressive personnel policies and be extra conscious in giving preference to qualified women and minority group members.

She added that policies on job training and promotion should also be modified along affirmative action lines.

Mendoza urged the Employers Confederation of the Philippines and the Personnel Management Association of the Philippines to consider integrating affirmative action plans in the hiring and employment policies of their member firms.

She said the plans could be done in consultation with trade unions, women's groups and the Department of Labor and Employment, but lamented that many fully qualified women and minority group members remain unemployed due to "regressive" corporate hiring policies.

She expressed confidence that affirmative action plans would give more meaning to the constitutional mandate to provide "equal employment opportunities for all." (With a report from Mark Navales)

Sulu Gazette March 2008

The Sulu Gazette is the official newsletter of the Sulu Provincial Government.
For inquiries about trade, investments and tourism, please e-mail us at mabuhay.mabuhay@gmail.com

The Sulu Gazette is published monthly and advertised on the Mindanao Examiner newspaper and its website http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com and distributed in some areas in the Muslim autonomous region, Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao City, Cebu City and Manila.

Photo: Sunset In Zamboanga City

Sun sets March 01, 2008 in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines. Zamboanga is now branded as Asia's Latin City because of its Chavacano dialect, a mixture of Spanish and several Filipino dialects which is distinct in the Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

WESM Extends Live Dispatch Ops In Visayas

The Wholesale Electricity Market Corporation (WESM) is extending its Live Dispatch Operations (LDO) in the Visayas in preparation for the Department of Energy's (DOE) approval for full commercial operations in the Visayas.

The LDO, which has been ongoing since 5 February 2008, marks the final step of the Visayas Trial Operations. It is intended to test the readiness of the market systems and the participants prior to full Commercial Operations. During this time, all electricity in the Visayas is being schedule through the WESM market system.

"The Market Operator (MO) and the System Operator (SO) have been working closely during the course of the LDO in order to fully implement the dispatch schedules provided by WESM" said PEMC Executive Vice President Mario R. Pangilinan. "Visayas in general has been very cooperative. We are looking forward to working closely with the participants and SO Visayas upon Commercial Operations," he added.

The WESM Billing and Settlements Department has set up a mock settlement system so the participants may experience financial reconciliations during the LDO. The mock settlement also enables the full testing of the financial system in preparation for the spot market's Visayas launch. When the market operates, the WESM will have a gross turnover in the Visayas of thirty-eight (38) billion pesos annually.

Commercial Operations in Luzon was launched June 26, 2006. "The market has been a catalyst for change in the power industry, encouraging significant interest in the government privatization program. For the Visayas on the other hand, we hope that this will finally resolve the issues regarding future power investments while maintaining competitive electricity rates," revealed PEMC President Lasse A. Holopainen.(Michelle de Guzman)

6 Wounded In Sulu Blast

SULU, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 02, 2008) – A homemade bomb explosion ripped through a bar near a military base in the largely Muslim province of Sulu in southern Philippines, wounding 6 people, officials said on Sunday.

Officials said bomb experts were investigating the type of explosive used in the attack late Sunday at the bar owned by a retired soldier in the village of Busbus just within meters of a military base in Jolo town. The blast damaged the bar’s walls and injured four women and two army intelligence agents.

“Six people are wounded in the blast, four women and two soldiers and we are still investigating the explosion,” Army Major Roel Ebreo, spokesman for the anti-terror Joint Task Force Comet told the Mindanao Examiner.

He said the victims were rushed to a military hospital in Jolo where Filipino and US military doctors treated their wounds, but their conditions remain unknown. A few hundred US troops are deployed in Sulu to help local soldiers defeat terrorism.

No group claimed responsibility for the bombing, but previous attacks on bars had been largely blamed by authorities to the Abu Sayyaf group tied to al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiya terrorists.

“We are determining what type of explosive was used and who is behind this blast,” Sulu police chief Julasirim Kasim said in a separate interview.

The motive of the attack was unknown and police put a tighter security in the area, but several bars outside the base had been bombed by Abu Sayyaf militants that killed and wounded dozens of soldiers and prostitute over the past years.

And despite of the attacks, the number of bars outside the base has also grown through the years, catering to mostly Christian soldiers deployed on the province of more than half a million Muslims. The selling of alcohol and prostitution is strictly prohibited in Sulu.

In February 2006, Abu Sayyaf militants detonated a bomb at a bar outside the base, killing 3 people and wounded more than two dozen others. A month later, the Abu Sayyaf bomb a cooperative store in Jolo town and killing 9 people and wounding more than 20 more. (With a report from Nickee Butlangan)

Sundalong Sabit Sa Sulu "Masscare", Kakasuhan Na!

ZAMBOANGA CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 02, 2008) – Sasampahan na ng kasong kriminal ang mga sundalong inakusahang pumatay sa 8 katao sa lalawigan ng Sulu sa kabila ng pagtatakip ng militar sa mga akusado.

Sinabi mismo ni Jainab Abdulmajid, executive director ng Sulu Area Coordinating Center (ACC), na nakahanda na ang lahat ng mga affidavits ng mga naulila upang makasuhan ang mga sundalong miyembro ng Army’s Light Reaction Company at Navy’s Special Warfare Group at kanilang mga commanders na sabit sa pagpatay.

“Magsasampa na ngayon Lunes ng kaso upang mabigyan ng hustisya ang pagapatay sa mga inosenteng sibilyan,” ani Abdulmajid sa panayam ng Mindanao Examiner.

Katulad ng inaasahan, inabswelto ng militar ang mga sundalong sabit sa binansagang "Sulu Massacre" na kung saan ay pitong sibilyan at isang off-duty army soldier ang napatay sa diumano'y sagupaan sa Abu Sayyaf.

Sa imbestigasyon na isinagawa ng Judge Advocate General's Office at Inspector General ng Western Mindanao Command ay pinawalang sala nito ang mga sundalong miyembro ng Army Light Reaction Company at Navy Special Warfare Group na siyang nasa likod ng atake sa Barangay Ipil sa bayan ng Mainbung nuong Pebrero 4.

Iginiit ng militar na lehitimong operasyon laban sa Abu Sayyaf ang naganap. Ngunit kabilang sa mga nasawi ay dalawang bata, dalawang teenager, isang buntis, isang seaweed farmer at isang konsehal ng naturang barangay.

"It was a legitimate encounter with the Abu Sayyaf and that is according to the report and findings of the JAGO," ani Army Major Eugene Batara, spokesman ng Western Mindanao Command.

Sinabi nitong si Colonel Fred Lleosa ang namuno sa JAGO team na nagsagawa ng imbestigasyon.

Ngunit pinanindigan naman ng Commission on Human Rights ang resulta ng sarili nitong imbestigasyon at sinabing walang Abu Sayyaf sa nasabing barangay at pawing mga inosenteng sibilyan ang pinatay ng mga sundalo.

"None of them was an Abu Sayyaf member. Seven civilians and a government soldiers were killed in that attack," wika ni CHR Regional Director Jose Manuel Mamauag.

Bago pa man magsimula ang imbestigasyon o isang araw matapos na mapatay ang 8 ay sinabi na ng Western Mindanao Command na kung hindi mga Abu Sayyaf ang napatay ay mga coddlers naman ito ng teroristang grupo na may kinalaman sa Jemaah Islamiya.

Mariing binatikos naman kahapon ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front ang resulta ng imbestigasyon ng militar at sinabing pinagtakpan nito ang mga sundalo."The findings are sanitized aimed at lessening the burden of responsibility to members of the elite troops under the Light Reaction Company and the navy's Special Warfare Group. Acting as judge for itself will lead to nowhere and no justice is expected forthcoming," ani pa ng MILF.

Pinuri rin nito ang ulat ng CHR at patas umano ang pahayag ni Mamauag ukol sa massacre. "Conscience-guided men, like Mamauag, deserved to be commended by everyone, despite differences of loyalties and orientations," wika ni Muhammad Ameen, chairman of the MILF Secretariat.

Idinetalye ng CHR kung paanong inatake ng mga sundalo ang Barangay Ipil at ang pagnanakaw na ginawa ng mga ito sa mga kabahayan doon. Tatlong bahay rin ang sinunog ng mga sundalo at maging mga kambing at manok ay inilagay sa sako at tinangay.

Nangako naman si Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan na tutulungan nito ang mga naulila upang makakuha ng hustisya. Unang bumuo si Tan ng fact-finding board na sisiyasat sa “massacre.”

Isang malaking indignation rally naman ang isasagawa ng mga Muslim sa bawat bayan sa Sulu bilang protesta sa pagtatakip ng militar sa mga sundalo.

Kung mamamatunayang nagkasala ang mga sundalo ay tiyak na matatanggal ang mga ito sa serbisyo at mabubulok sa bilangguan. (Mindanao Examiner)

Photo: Zamboanga Sunset

The sun sets in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines March 01, 2008. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

Photo: The Beautiful Davao

Fishermen sail on vinta in the Davao Gulf and birds flock at the fish cage near Peñaplata pier in Samal City off Davao City in southern Philippines. Davao City is a favorite holiday destination of Filipino and foreign tourists in the Philippines and is one of the most safest place to go in Mindanao. (Ruby More/ AKP Images, Text by the Mindanao Examiner)

Lawyers' Union Assails Gov't Tactics

The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers condemns the Executive Department’s persistent efforts to subvert the Constitution and the laws it has sworn to uphold.

The refusal of the PNP to attend the Senate investigation, the belated Ombudsman investigation and the threats of harassment suits against witness Jun Lozada are nothing more than attempts to undermine the Senate investigation into the ZTE-NBN corruption scandal. These orchestrated acts by top government officials loyal to Pres. Gloria Arroyo, however, only adds more credence to the evidence which show that those responsible for acts of corruption in the ZTE transaction is not only limited to former Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos but actually involve Pres. Gloria Arroyo and her husband Atty. Mike Arroyo.

PNP Officers criminally and administratively liable

The refusal of PNP officers to attend Senate hearings ostensibly because “the PNP cannot discuss the matter publicly in order not to interfere with due process” citing the complaint for obstruction of justice filed with the Ombudsman is not only an open defiance of congressional authority but also violates the PNP officers’ oath under Sec. 40 of the Administrative Code of 1987, requiring all public officials to “obey the laws, legal orders and decrees promulgated by the duly constituted authorities”. The NUPL finds it incomprehensible how “publicly discussing the matter” before the Senate can violate due process rights considering that the Senate is an official investigation and not a symposium. Furthermore, the PNP can always ask for executive session if they feel that their statements may violate due process rights. Based on this theory, Gen. Razon and his subordinates, are henceforth, precluded from giving media interviews on the Lozada kidnapping.

The filing of a petition asking the Supreme Court to legalize the non attendance of Gen. Avelino Razon and his subordinates has no legal or constitutional basis. Gen. Razon and his subordinates cannot claim the right to self incrimination as the basis for their non attendance because the Supreme Court expressly prohibited this insidious scheme to preempt congressional investigations in Sabio vs Gordon [GR 184340, October 2006], to wit:

Anent the right against self-incrimination, it must be emphasized that this right may be invoked x x x only when the incriminating question is being asked, since they have no way of knowing in advance the nature or effect of the questions to be asked of them.” That this right may possibly be violated or abused is no ground for denying respondent Senate Committees their power of inquiry.

Furthermore, Sec. 19 of the Senate rules expressly prohibit ‘preemptive’ claim to self-incrimination:

Sec. 19. Privilege Against Self-Incrimination

A witness can invoke his right against self-incrimination only when a question tends to elicit an answer that will incriminate him is propounded to him. x x x No person can refuse to testify or be placed under oath or affirmation or answer questions before an incriminatory question is asked. His invocation of such right does not by itself excuse him from his duty to give testimony.

In such a case, the Committee, by a majority vote of the members present there being a quorum, shall determine whether the right has been properly invoked. If the Committee decides otherwise, it shall resume its investigation and the question or questions previously refused to be answered shall be repeated to the witness. If the latter continues to refuse to answer the question, the Committee may punish him for contempt for contumacious conduct.

This blatant disregard of the Senate’s authority to conduct investigation is another attempt to preempt the investigation and subvert the search for the truth behind the ZTE scandal. This makes all the respondents subject to criminal and administrative charges that may be filed after Pres. Gloria Arroyo ceases to be President on or before 2010. Absent a TRO from the Supreme Court, Gen. Razon has no recourse but to attend the Senate hearing on February 26.

DOJ Fact Finding

The NUPL also condemns Pres. Arroyo’s continuing misuse of the Department of Justice through her Justice Secretary. The threats publicly aired by Sec. Raul Gonzalez of DOJ plans to investigate ZTE witness Jun Lozada’s finances and file criminal cases against his brothers and sisters for perjury not only smacks of harassment but also a not so veiled attempt to silence Mr. Lozada.

The arrogance implied by Sec. Gonzalez’ threats against a lowly public official in Mr. Lozada is matched by his cowardice to investigate the involvement of FG Mike Arroyo and Chairman Abalos in the ZTE deal and other anomalies. After Sec. Neri charged, under oath in an official congressional investigation, Chairman Abalos of bribery, the voluble Justice Secretary did not found the charges worth investigating. The DOJ cannot make investigations which would pre judge the exercise of its official function of conducting preliminary investigation if criminal complaints are filed against any party involved in the ZTE corruption scandal. Furthermore, the Justice Secretary has constantly expressed his loyalty and fealty to Pres. Arroyo and his biased views against Mr. Lozada and those that seek to reveal the truth behind the corruption charges against Pres. Arroyo disqualifying his department from conducting investigation.

Ombdusman Investigation a diversionary circus

The Ombudsman investigation is another such attempt to confuse the people and divert the attention from the Senate investigation. The Ombudsman is required under Sec. 15 (1) of RA 6670 to:

1) Investigate and prosecute on its own or on complaint by any person, any act or omission of any public officer or employee, office or agency, when such act or omission appears to be illegal, unjust, improper or inefficient. It has primary jurisdiction over cases cognizable by the Sandiganbayan x x x

The ZTE contract was cancelled or suspended by Pres. Gloria Arroyo because of the irregularities—a clear admission that corruption may have taken place. Under the law, the Ombudsman should have acted as early as last year, on its own, because the scrapped contract ‘appear’ illegal or at the very least, improper.

The Ombudsman has constantly refused to investigate such a blatant display of corruption and overpricing despite the admission by Pres. Arroyo of the irregularities involved. The Ombudsman has in fact, disregarded the statement of a Cabinet member, Sec. Romulo Neri, that he was bribed by Chairman Abalos, a clear sign of the biased exercise by Ombudsman Merceditas Guttierez of her functions as a supposed independent Ombudsman. Guttierez can be found guilty in an impeachment proceeding if only for this inefficiency. The attempt of the Ombudsman, which has not seriously acted on the Fertilizer Scam case and Jocjoc Bolante for years, to intervene only now when the ZTE issue is generating interest and after the tenth complaint was filed, shows its utter lack of respect to its own mandate and task under the law and the Constitution.

NUPL demands of Pres. Arroyo to desist from using her office and those of her subordinates in preempting serious investigations on the ZTE deal precisely because she and her family are the ones being charged with corruption in the said issue. This is not only required by the Anti graft and corrupt Practices Act but by the principle of delicadeza, the unwritten law governing ethical actions of public officials. Pres. Arroyo is not only accountable for her acts but is also accountable for all the violation of the Constitution and the laws committed by her subordinates to illegally protect her from congressional investigations.

Reference Person: Atty. Neri Javier Colmenares-Secretary General
http://nupl.wordpress.com

Commies Kill 3 Army Soldiers In South RP Raid

COTABATO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Mar. 01, 2008) – Communist insurgents killed three government soldiers in a clash Saturday in the southern Philippines, the military said.

The military said six other soldiers were wounded in the fighting on remote village in Davao City’s Toril district. The clash erupted after New People’s Army fighters attacked an army post shortly before 7 a.m.

The clash lasted several minutes, according to an army report, but it did not say whether there gunmen killed or wounded.

The outskirt of Davao City is a known stronghold of the NPA, which is fighting the past four decades for the establishment of a separate Maoist state.

Philippine military chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon vowed to crush all NPA fronts in the country and Army Chief Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano said strength of the rebel group is steadily declining because of continued government offensive.

The NPA is the armed wing of the outlawed Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, which broke of peace talks with government in 2004 after the United States in Manila's prodding added them to its list of foreign terrorist organizations.

Rebel leaders said they would only resume peace negotiations if Washington removes them from the terror tag and if President Gloria Arroyo is ousted and have intensified their offensives against military and government targets across the country.

Last month, the military rewarded over one million pesos to two civilians who helped capture two senior NPA leaders in Mindanao - Saturnino Roda, who was captured in Zamboanga del Sur province in August last year and Joe Paculba, captured also after Roda’s fall in Misamis Occidental.

The military said the bounty is part of Manila’s Rewards for Justice Program patterned after the US rewards program which is a big boost to ongoing anti-insurgency campaign in the Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner)