ARMM 20th Foundation Anniversary

ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna lead ARMM Officials (inset) in lighting the torch signaling the start of the 5-day celebration of the 20th Foundation Anniversary of ARMM which will culminate on NOvember 19, 2009. ARMM employees participate in the opening ceremony of the inter-agency sports festival as part of the anniversary celebration inside the ARMM Regional Complex, Cotabato City.

ARMM celebrates 20th anniversary

COTABATO CITY – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) kicks off today the five-day celebration of its 20th founding anniversary spearheaded by the Office of the Regional Governor, Regional Sports Coordinating Office (RSCO-ARMM) and Bureau on Cultural Heritage (BCH-ARMM) held here.

ARMM was first created on August 1, 1989 through Republic Act No. 6734, also known as “Organic Act for the ARMM” in pursuance with a constitutional mandate to provide for an autonomous area in Muslim Mindanao. Of the areas where the plebiscites were held, only Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi voted favorably for inclusion in the new autonomous region. The region was officially inaugurated on November 6, 1990 here, which was designated as its provisional capital.

In 2001, a new law, Republic Act No. 9054, was passed for the expansion of the ARMM to include the areas which initially rejected inclusion and the provinces which were carved from them. Only Marawi City and Basilan with the exception of Isabela City opted to be integrated in the region.

Themed “Tulay ng Kapayapaan – Pagkakaisa at Kaunlaran Tungo sa Larangan ng Palakasan, Yamang Kultura ng ating Rehiyon, Pangalagaan, Linangin at Ipagmalaki,” various sports activities and cultural shows are lined up aimed to strengthen the mind and body skills beneficial for the effective public service of officials and employees of the ARMM. Sports activities include basketball, volleyball, table tennis, dart, bowling, lawn tennis, chess and scrabble.

RSCO officer-in-charge Ibrahim Biruar Jr. stressed, “Let us extend our heartfelt thanks to the unrelenting support of Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan who calls for the celebration of ARMM and the entire Bangsamoro people.”

In his recent State of the Region Address (SORA), Governor Ampatuan is optimistic that the Autonomous Regional Government will continue to live up to the interest of the Bangsamoro people and will effort to cater the pressing needs of its people.
Highlight of the opening salvo are the performances of BCH-trained Angat-Kultura Class from Datu Piang, Maguindanao, Maguindanaon Band and Kalatong Musical Class which composed of Internally Displaced Peoples (IDPs).

Moreover, BCH-ARMM Executive Director Bai Badria Kamaong-Andamen emphasized the vital role of culture in the development of ARMM.

“The unique culture as well as the exceptional tradition of the people in the region made ARMM unique in its own way. Nevertheless of diverse tribes of Moro and Lumad people, unity is evident. This event will further acquaint the people and will continue to strengthen camaraderie especially in the ranks of ARMM officials and employees,” Andamen said.

Governor Ampatuan, in his message read by Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna, while commends the support and active participation of secretaries, heads of offices and employees, vows to reinforce programs and activities that would further brace the significance of culture and sports to man’s well-being.
ARMM is presently composed of five provinces and one city namely Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan and Marawi City.

DSWD-ARMM and IPHO-Maguindanao

DSWD-ARMM and IPHO-Maguindanao team up to conduct a one-day outreach program to residents of Barangay DM Biruar in Bongo Island, Parang, Maguindanao last Nov. 14, 2009. (Clockwise) a. DSWD-ARMM Sec. Bai Soraida Biruar (fourth from R) assisted by Datu Ali Biruar (left) former DM Biruar Barangay Chairman, and other officials of DSWD and DOH-ARMM hands over a cash loan assistance worth P5,000 to one of the 25 beneficiaries of the Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K); b. Sec. Biruar(center) with Tagudtungan Barangay Chairman Adnan Biruar(right) and DSWD-ARMM Maguindanao provincial Officer Ms. Elsie Amil (left) distribute assorted relief goods; c. OPERATION TULI. Boys from the barangay get free circumcision courtesy of doctors from IPHO-Maguindanao and the AFP; d. LIBRENG CHECK UP. Residents get free medical check-up and consultation.

DSWD, DOH conduct outreach programs

16 November 2009

Bongo Island, Parang, Maguindanao – Various agencies of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development of the (DSWD-ARMM) and the Department of Health (DOH-ARMM) have been conducting series of outreach programs here for the underprivileged people in the far-flung villages of the province.
The outreach programs include medical mission like “operation tuli” or circumcision, free medical check-up and consultation and awarding of cash loan assistance of P5,000 each for the Self-Employment Assistance – Kaunlaran program or SEA-K to twenty-five (25)individuals from Barangay Tagudtungan in the island of Bongo on Saturday, November 14, 2009.
ARMM social welfare Secretary Bai Soraida Biruar said the SEA-K is a livelihood program of DSWD in a form of loan that intends to help provide financial assistance as capital seed fund to the marginalized communities in the entire region in order for them to start a business as source of their income.
The SEA-K is part of the Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) of the national government to help mitigate hunger in the country, Biruar added.
Dra. Elizabeth Samama, the Provincial Health Officer (IPHO) of Maguindanao province who led the team of medical doctors and nurses, disclosed that about seven-hundred (700) individuals had been given medical attention and free medicines including operation tuli.
Samama said that aside from the Internally Displaced Persons in the different evacuations centers in the province, Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) Maguindanao has been engaging in various medical outreach programs to serve the poor and depressed communities especially in the remotest areas of the province.
ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan stressed during his State of the Region Address (SORA) recently that basic social services such as Health, nutrition, education, infrastructure and other significant development projects are among the major program thrusts of his administration.

Matanog residents receive 4Ps conditional cash grant

13 November 2009

Matanaog, Maguindanao – The Autonomous Regional Government under the initiative of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-ARMM) has been continuously improving the interest and wellbeing of the marginalized and underprivileged constituents of the region through various economic and health programs, one of which is the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps

On Thursday, November 12, 2009, DSWD-ARMM spearheaded by its secretary Bai Soraida Biruar has distributed “Conditional Cash Grant” to identified beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program from the different barangays of Matanog town in the province of Maguindanao, along with Matanog Mayor Nasser Imam at the Matanog Municipal Gymnasium.

Sec. Biruar said that the program is a poverty reduction strategy that provides small grants to identified extremely poor families with the condition that the money will be spent for health and education of their children particularly from zero-fourteen (0-14) years of age.

Every household will receive monthly cash grants of P1,400 for five years for health services and education of maximum of three (3) children. Each child will have P300 intended for his/her education with the total amount of P900 for the 3 children while the P500 will be used for the family’s basic health service, stressed Biruar.

Mayor Imam was very grateful that Matanog has been included as one of the chosen towns in the region to benefit the 4Ps program.

“We are so thankful to the leadership of the Autonomous Regional Government under the administration of able Governor Datu Zaldy Ampatuan for the enduring support and assistance to our constituents here in Matanog”, added Imam.

He said that the whole town of Matanog has been extremely damaged and most affected during the 2000 all-out war between the government forces and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) where thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) stayed in the evacuation centers for more than one year.

Matanog has Three Thousand Eight Hundred Sixty Nine (3,869) beneficiaries, the highest number of qualified beneficiaries among the ten (10) identified target municipalities in the province of Maguindanao.

ARMM Governor Datu Zaldy Ampatuan in his 5th State of the Region Address (SORA) recently emphasized that the regional government has concentrated the efforts to respond to major development challenges and issues confronting its people and their communities and pursued high impact socio-economic development programs.

The 4Ps is a five year program of the national government which was conceived and started in 2008 in response to the global economic meltdown.

It also intends to alleviate poverty incidence that provides cash grants to extremely poor families not only in the ARMM but also in the entire country.

The national government has identified ten (10) municipalities for the Maguindanao province as target beneficiaries of the 4Ps program, sixteen (16) for Lanao del Sur; seventeen (17) for Sulu; three (3) for Tawi-Tawi and three (3) for Basilan. (bpi-armm)

Ampatuan’s program of government earns him praise from known opposition figure

Cotabato City - Opposition senator and vice presidential hopeful Senator Loren Legarda lauded Monday the socio-economic programs and highlights of accomplishments presented by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan in his 5th State of the Region Address (SORA).

Legarda, a staunch advocate of environment protection and climate change, said she was impressed by the ARMM chief’s focus on the environment, peace and order, health and education, including the settlement of the problem of teachers in the region with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

ARMM’s outstanding arrears of more than P1 billion with the GSIS about six years ago has been brought down to around P300 million as of lately through the interventions of Ampatuan and support of the Office of the President. Ampatuan said negotiations are currently ongoing to “finally write-off the remaining balance.”

“Hangang-hanga ako sa kanyang mga socio-economic programs (I’m really impressed with his [Ampatuan] socio-economic programs),“ Legarda told reporters during a press conference shortly after the SORA.

The lady-senator also approved of the efforts of the regional government to address climate change and protect the environment.

Ampatuan said the region will make sustainable management and protection of the environment among its top priorities in response to the challenge of climate change and other emerging environmental threats.

Although a known critic of the administration, Legarda assured that ARMM constituents can count on her as an ally in the Senate in the fight against poverty and hunger. She said she would help the region, in her current capacity as Senator and if she ever succeeds in getting elected to higher office, get sufficient fundings to support programs and projects on education and health and sanitation.
She also vowed to help advance the Mindanao River Basin Development Plan.

Legarda was chair of the senate sub-committee which heard and approved the ARMM’s 2010 proposed budget in September of this year.

While Ampatuan is a keen supporter of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Regional Chairman of the Lakas-KAMPI-CMD, his SORA drew personalities both from the administration and the opposition bloc.

Aside from Legarda, another prominent opposition figure, Akbayan Party List Representative Risa Honiveros, also graced the 5th SORA.

In an interview with a local radio station here right after the SORA, Hontiveros praised Ampatuan’s program of government and expressed approval of the ARMM Governor’s support to the cause of women.

Both Legarda and Hontiveros, who have been openly critisizing the administration on a number of issues, are believed to be building up their chances to get elected to higher positions come 2010.

Ampatuan, however, stressed that he remains loyal to the administration and to the Lakas-KAMPI-CMD coalition.

“I will adhere to the consensus of the party and will strongly support its candidates in the upcoming 2010 elections. But any candidate, regardless of political affiliations, is free to campaign in the ARMM,” Ampatuan stressed. (bpi-armm)

Ampatuan presents economic gains and ARMM’s future direction in his 5th SORA

Cotabato City - Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan vows to take ARMM to its full economic might and contribute to the country’s overall economic development in his 5th State of the Region Address (SORA) before the 6th Regional Assembly.

Ampatuan delivered his 5th SORA before the members of the Regional Assembly at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex inside the ARMM Regional Government Center here on November 9, 2009.

According to Ampatuan, ARMM’s overall economic performance remained resilient during the past years despite the uncertainties. The region registered a growth rate of 5.3% in its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in 2007 with the agri-fishery sector contributing a bulk to the total output.

The agri-fishery sector experienced a growth of 8.1 % and comprised 58.4% of the region’s total economic output.

Moreover, ARMM managed to attract a total of P2.4 billion in a period spanning 3 years, from 2006-2008, that generated the employment of 32,772 workers.

“Our economic strategies will continue, not just to make ARMM grow to its full potential but also to help boost the country’s overall economic growth,” Ampatuan said.

Ampatuan has also placed second among his three priority development plans the region’s target to take a lead in the “production, processing and marketing of halal products and services in the country.”

The global halal market is estimated to be around $US632 billion and Thailand, the leading exporter of certified halal products and a country which also has a Muslim minority, makes about US$6.3 billion annually from its halal industry.

ARMM is already taking steps to get a slice of the lucractive halal market. The region has come up with a Halal developmment plan, identifying mechanisms to stimulate and establish the region’s halal industry, on orders from Ampatuan.

The region is also investing heavily on the contruction and improvement key infrastructures with 227 projects amounting to P1 billion for 2009. Other infrastructure projects are also being undertaken in partnership with foreign donors such as the Sanga-Sanga airport in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi and the Jolo airport in Sulu, which are being funded by the USAID.

Ampatuan affirmed that the ARMM will continue to carry forward the interests and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people even as he called for the support of other Muslim leaders on his program of government.

He said that it his duty as Regional Governor “to protect this institution [ARMM] and to make it work better under the present set-up.”

He said the regional government will work to “strengthen the institutional structure of regional autonomy to make it more responsive to our [Bangsamoro people] needs, ideals and aspirations as Bangsamoro people.”

The 5th SORA according to him, with the number of accomplishments highlighted therein, manifests the regional government’s “resolve and dedication to continue serving the people with better services they deserve.”

Ampatuan took time in thanking the national leadership under the administration of President Gloria Pacapagal Arroyo for the support and trust the national government has been giving to the ARMM. He also underscored the role of the foreign and local donor institutions in the regional development. (bpi-armm)

Ampatuan underscores peace, education, health, and environment on his 5th SORA

Cotabato City - Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao once again reaffirmed his administration’s full support to the peace process and emphasized the regional government’s recommendations to the Government peace panel to help make the peace consultations succeed.

In his 5th State of the Region Address (SORA) before the members of the Regional Assembly he delivered at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex inside the ARMM Regional Center here, Amapatuan commended the renewed efforts of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front for the early resumption of the stalled peace talks.

Ampatuan, who is the first ARMM regional governor reelected ever, has been supporting the government peace initiatives in Mindanao particularly the full implementation of the September 2, 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the Government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the immediate conclusion of the ongoing peace negotiations with the MILF.

“The recent suspension of military operations and actions on both sides was a big step to restore normalcy and there is no doubt we are now enjoying an atmosphere of peace and stability that must be sustained on the ground,” he said.

Ampatuan said that a total of 230,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) were served by the regional government and that 24,000 families have already returned to their respective places and assisted by the regional government and donor agencies with livelihood and financial support.

The regional government will continue to provide a package of early recovery and rehabilitation assistance for the remaining IDPs for their eventual return to their places of origin through the Cluster Approach Cum Early Recovery Plan drafted to provide mechanism for relief and rehab support for IDPs, according to Ampatuan.

Ampatuan’s administration is also addressing the P1 billion Government Service Insurance Service premium arrears of ARMM incurred during the previous administrations and is currently negotiating with the Department of Budget andf Management and the National Government to write-off the remaining balance of 300 million pesos.

The regional government is continuously upgrading the capacity of human resources and strengthens the implementation of the Anti-Red Tape Act to further promote the regional government’s policy for transparency and accountability and the effective delivery of public service in ARMM.

Ampatuan also underscored in his 5th SORA his administration’s efforts to enhance delivery of basic social services especially to the less fortunate, disadvantaged sectors including women and children.

He said that the Regional Basic Education Development Plan and the recently concluded ARMM Basic Education Donors’ Forum is a solid step for a focused intervention for better quality of education in ARMM.

He also announced ten thousand scholarship slots given to deserving beneficiaries and another 113 grantees for One Town One Scholar Program under Commission I Higher Education-ARMM.

He also announced that the Autonomous Regional Government had recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DepED national office for the implementation of 2008-2009 school building Program.

He said as of 2008, 153 school buildings were completed and more are still under construction and another 285 additional classrooms and 507 teaching and non-teaching positions have been recently approved by DBM for DepEd-ARMM.

He also announced the distribution of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and laboratory equipment to different elementary schools to further enhance their skills and knowledge in Science and Technology.

The ARMM-wide Investment Plan for Health (AIPH) with the Department of Health National Office which includes funding and technical assistance will be a big boost to the delivery of health services in the region, according to him.

“Construction and renovation of our hospitals, health facilities, and the continuous allocation of medicines and supplies to local health stations especially in IDP-host areas are one of my priorities,” he said.

The regional governor also affirmed the region’s preparations to take on climate change and environmental concerns.

“The continuing protection and management of our watersheds, lakes, rivers, forests, and marshes for a long term requirements of the next generations is on top of our priorities,” he said.

He also announced that the Presidnetial Task Force on Mindanao River Basin which he co-chairs is now in the process of crafting the Mindanao River Basin Master Development Plan. (bpi-armm)

BEAM-AusAID bolsters Distance Learning Program for ARMM children

Marawi City, LANAO DEL SUR – The regional government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with the support of the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) through the Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) has strengthened the Distance Learning Program (DLP) in the region as one of the approaches in improving poor access of children to basic education.

The DLP is one of the initiatives of the BEAM Project under its Component 3 – Increasing Access – which seek to grant opportunities for the school age children in the elementary level starting at Grade 3 to Grade 6 from far-flung and poor areas, to have access to formal basic education through the use of independent and self-paced learning modules.

In the pilot stage, two divisions in the ARMM composed of eight elementary schools were the beneficiaries since the program commenced in June of 2009. Schools-recipients under Maguindano Division are Datu Gumbay Piang Elementary School of Datu Piang, Dapiawan Elementary School of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Kalumamis Elementary School of Guindulungan, Pandan Elementary School of South Upi, Malangit Elementary School of Mamasapano and Libutan Elementary School of Datu Saudi Ampatuan. Bobo Elementary School and Piagapo Central Elementary School of Piagapo are the beneficiaries from Lanao del Sur IB Division.

In the turn-over ceremony of BEAM Learning Modules and school supplies recently in Piagapo town here, Angelo Delgado, Project Development Officer in the Education Development Project Implementing Task Force (EDPITAF) of the Department of Education (DepEd), further stress the significance of DLP for school age children.

“The BEAM’s central objective is to address drop-out cases and absenteeism of these children in schools. These happen because these children were living in conflict-affected areas, their residences are distant from schools and some are working in the farms with their parents. Also eligible in the program are those children with physical difficulties or impairments,” Delgado said.

Delgado, as well, made clear the exclusion of Grades 1 and 2 in the DLP. He said that only children from Grade 3 to Grade 6 were recipients of the program as they were already in the “learning to read” stage of development.

“The beneficiaries are already readers because the modules are independent and interactive. Upon enrolment, the teacher conducts reading readiness assessment of students to determine their capacity to read the materials, follow instructions and complete the worksheets,” he said.

More than 500 BEAM Learning Modules is given to every school – five copies per learning area/subject (English, Math, Science, Filipino and Makabayan), per grade level (Grade 3 to Grade 6) and per grading period (1st to 4th Grading). A total of 35,000 modules were already distributed.

Acting Australian Project Director for BEAM, Ramon C. Bobier, senses a big hope in instituting a quality education for the children in the ARMM.

“We can assure our teachers, parents, as well as the children that these BEAM Learning Modules are especially designed to enhance the quality of knowledge and learning of each student. These modules are original masterworks of our own teachers from the DepEd-ARMM. We wanted to live with BEAM’s mission of bringing education closer to where it is needed and when it matters most,” Bobier said.

Moreover, ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan recurrently lauds the efforts of AusAID through BEAM in helping the regional government on its quest for affordable, accessible and quality education to poor students in remote areas in the autonomous region. (BPI-ARMM*)

Newly constructed Multi-Purpose Center

Newly constructed Multi-Purpose Center (Upper Left Photo), one of the 2 units of Latrines (Upper Right Photo) 2 units of Solar Drier (Lower Photo) located at Barangay Samer, in Butig town Lanao del Sur. These projects had been implemented by the ARMM Social Fund Project Management Office (ASFP) under the Community Development Assistance (CDA) component through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-ARMM) funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). (bpi-armm)

ASFP implements various community-based projects in Butig, Lanao del Sur

30 September 2009

ASFP implements various community-based projects in Butig, Lanao del Sur

Butig, Lanao del Sur - Residents of Barangay Samer in this town have had a hard time drying their farm produce and fetching water from a deep well for daily consumption not until two units of solar drier and a potable water system have been constructed by the ARMM Social Fund Project (ASFP) early this year funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Projects also like multi-purpose center, two units of latrines and three laundry sheds had been constructed and completed in this barangay as part of the Community Development Assistance (CDA) projects being implemented by the ASFP through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-ARMM).

Samer People’s Organization president Hadji Alawi Amatonding expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the ARMM for pouring in such considerable and significant projects in their area. “These projects particularly the water system and the laundry sheds are of great help to us residents of this barangay especially for our women and mothers,” said Amatonding.

Amatonding organized a consultation meeting with other residents and formed the Samer Organization for Development in order to lobby for projects that would help improve their living condition.

Butig mayor Dimnatang Pansar was also grateful to the Autonomous Regional Government through ARMM Social Fund Project under the leadership of Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Ampatuan and to the officials of the JICA for supporting such projects for his constituents.

“We are very thankful that we have this multi-purpose center where our people can use for various activities, the solar driers where our farmers can easily dry up their crops, the communal toilets which are situated near the Madrasah (Arabic School) where our students can use while having classes and most of all the potable water system, added mayor Pansar”.

ARMM Social Fund Project Management Office has been implementing social and development projects primarily in the far-flung villages from the six component provinces and one city of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) under the administration of Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Ampatuan to reduce poverty incidence, improve healthcare services and boost local economy in the region through massive development programs and projects.

The Japanese government has committed a 2.47 Billion Yen worth of various development and community based projects in the region since year 2005 through soft loans by the national government and granted to ARMM to further its development and build peace in the region. (bpi-armm)

Courtesy visit

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (seated, left) pays a courtesy visit to Senator Loren Legarda (right) and discuss with the lady senator his peace and development initiatives in the region. Legarda is the Chairman of the Senate Sub-Finance Committee which hears the 2010 ARMM Proposed Budget amounting to P9.827 Billion. (BPI-ARMM)

Maguindanao 1st District Congressman Didagen Dilangalen (left) and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (right) seriously discussing the flooding situation in the province. Ampatuan went to the House of Representatives on September 29, 2009 and defended the 2010 ARMM Proposed Budget amounting to P9.827 Billion. (BPI-ARMM)

Courtesy Call

Tawi-tawi Lone District Congressman Nur G. Jaafar (right) and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (left), discussing development initiatives in the region. Ampatuan paid a courtesy visit to Jaafar, Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Sub-Committee “F” on Finance and Appropriations who hears the 2010 ARMM Proposed Budget amounting to P9.827 Billion. (BPI-ARMM)

UN to assist ARMM IDPs in early recovery, livelihood programs

ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna Sr. (left) assures the United Nations that the ARMM Regional Government will work collectively with the UN system to completely rebuild the plight of IDPs brought by skirmishes and recent flooding in the region. UN officials Jacqui Badcock and Matthew Serventy (2nd and 3rd from left) paid visit at the Office of the Regional Governor on September 9 to collaborate with regional government’s strategies in ensuring IDPs security. The UN pledges to provide various assistance to the regional government especially on early recovery and livelihood issues. Also present in the meeting are TMS Director Ramil Masukat and BPI Director Samson Gogo.


COTABATO CITY – The United Nations (UN) assures the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Government that it would extend various assistance to completely rebuild distressing plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by recent sporadic skirmishes and flooding in different areas of the region, according to a UN official in her visit to the Office of the Regional Governor on September 08.

Jacqui Badcock, UN Resident Coordinator, consulted several representatives of ARMM line agencies particularly Regional Disaster Coordinating Committee (RDCC), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Technical Management Services (TMS) to comprehend ARMM Regional Government’s strategy in ensuring IDPs security.

She also wanted to grasp how the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) implement the Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) and Suspension of Military Actions (SOMA), respectively, but reiterated, “we are willing to assist you in any ways.”

Ramil Masukat, TMS Director, said that the ARMM Regional Government had already submitted its early recovery and rehabilitation plans to DSWD Central Office and now awaiting response.

“There’s no guarantee if there will never be skirmishes again in their communities. That is why, we worry the situation of IDPs here particularly in the province of Maguindanao,” Masukat said.

Masukat disclosed that “while waiting for DSWD’s reply,” the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) will be meeting the Peace and Development Officers (MPDOs) of different municipalities in Maguindanao to design urgent programs for IDPs plight.

A two-day Strategic Planning session with UN and social welfare officers (MSWDOs) of different municipalities in Maguindanao was also proposed.

Further, Humanitarian Affairs Officer Matthew Serventy of UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) suggested strengthening the cluster system approach of the regional government to ensure consolidation of data, actions taken and other plans of different ARMM line agencies.

He also proposed that “if cluster trainings will be pushed through,” ARMM regional government may focus on two settings -- armed conflict and disaster response -- “from regional level down to provincial [level] to immediately take actions if clashes and flooding will occur.”

In the end, Badcock reassures that the United Nations is keen in assisting the ARMM Regional Government and that it would provide technical assistance “especially on early recovery and livelihood issues.”

Lawyer Oscar Sampulna Sr., ARMM Executive Secretary, in response, said that the ARMM Regional Government promises to collectively work with the UN system and that consolidated data from ARMM line agencies are organized for review and reference.

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan, also the chair of RDCC, directed beforehand all ARMM line agencies to utilize resources and exhaust means to warrant the protection of IDPs in evacuation centers as well as victims of flooding that recently plagued the region. (BPI-ARMM*)

IDPs in Northern Kabuntalan receive help in rebuilding community

Cotabato City - The Government of the Philippines - United Nations (GoP-UN) ACT for Peace Programme, through its Strengthening Response to Internal Displacement (StRIDe) Mindanao Project, turned-over last week package of assistance to residents of Barangay Damatog in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao who have been displaced by the latest military conflict and flooding in the area.

The assistance includes the construction of 40 core shelters amounting to P2 Million, a barangay health station, the establishment of a Botika ng Barangay and some livelihood support.

The residents will do the construction work themselves under a ‘food for work’ scheme which also serves as counterpart of the local government of Northern Kabuntalan.

Around 120 displaced families were provided with tools such as fish nets, farm implements and sewing machines as well as chicks for poultry production to help start over their livelihood. Beneficiaries were also given hygiene kits.
The assistance is intended to help residents rebuild their lives with multi-stakeholder’s support.

Mayor Ramil Dilangalen said residents of Damatog suffered heavy losses from the sporadic clashes and severe flood. “We are happy and grateful to receive this package of assistance from StRIDe Mindanao Project. It goes a long way in helping these residents get back to their normal life,” he said.

Funded by the European Commission, StRIDe Mindanao Project is supporting the rehabilitation of a total of 30 conflict-affected communities in Mindanao, 6 of which, including Barangay Damatog, are in Maguindanao.

The project aims to contribute to the “establishment of a durable solution to internal displacement by improving delivery of assistance to victims of armed conflicts, promoting IDP rights and strengthening response to prevent displacement.”

Among those who graced the turnover ceremony was Camille Hagstrom, Deputy Director for Operations of the European Commission, who was delighted to see the projects and all the stakeholders. Barangay Damatog, she said, would be “a very good example that IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) can start to rebuild.”

She said the ongoing rehabilitation in Damatog “proves that this is feasible”.

After only being displaced for 3 months, most residents of Damatog were the first among those in the 11 barangays affected by conflict in Northern Kabuntalan to start returning home.

All stakeholders have upheld a ‘covenant for the safe return of IDPs’ among the officials of the 11 barangays, municipal officials, military and IDP leaders that was forged in May this year after a series of dialogues. (bpi-armm)

BEAM awards P19M-grant to ARMM public schools

Heads of School Governing Councils in the province of Maguindanao headed by DepEd-Maguindanao Division Superintendent Meriam Kawit (third from right) received on September 3, this year, the P3M-school grant [parcel of the P19M-grant] from AusAID through BEAM that would help reinforce the School-Based Management program being implemented in public schools in ARMM. Three hundred eighty (380) public schools from 11 school divisions around the region have benefited the grant. Leading the awarding ceremony were AusAID Acting Project Director Ramon C. Bobier (second from right) and AusAID Acting Deputy Project Director Rosemary Green (extreme right).



COTABATO CITY – The Department of Education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DepEd-ARMM) received today [September 03] a P19 million-school grant from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) through the Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) that seeks to provide reinforcement to the School-Based Management (SBM) program being implemented in public schools in the region.

The SBM, which is designed to advance the quality and access of students to basic education has two key activities – the implementation of School Improvement Plan (SIP) and strengthening of School Governing Councils (SGC) – through building capacities of school administrators and teachers as well as bracing engagement of parents and the community to education stakeholders. More than a hundred individuals who were members of SGC, Local School Boards (LSB) and Parents, Teachers and Community Association (PTCA) attended the ceremony at the Estosan Garden Hotel here.

Ramon C. Bobier, Acting Australian Project Director for BEAM, said at the signing ceremony that the school grant will boost and sustain efforts to continually support public schools’ implementation of SIP.

“This grant is especially drafted for ARMM to augment the needs of its public schools – to enhance your schools, not only physically, but the quality of the learning outcomes of each ARMM student,” Bobier said.

The school grant, which will be allocated in three modes, benefits 380 public schools from 11 school divisions around the five-province autonomous region – Basilan (26), Lamitan (8), Sulu I (42), Sulu II (40), Tawi-Tawi (45), Marawi (13), Lanao del Sur I-A (31), Lanao del Sur II-A (42), Lanao del Sur II-B (29) and Maguindanao (61). The selection of the school-grant recipient had meet the following criteria – actively implementing its SIP with stakeholders, has organized and functional SGC and is using BEAM Learning Guides.

The modes are (1) Incentive-First Time, where P50,000 is apportioned to a performing school that meets that criteria and first time to receive the grant, (2) Incentive-Second Grant, where P30,000 is allotted to a performing school that has been a recipient of the DepEd National SBM Grant but is selected again for being able to meet the criteria and (3) Grant for Disadvantaged Schools, where P50,000 is allocated to remote and far-flung areas that needs financial assistance in the SIP implementation.

Beforehand, the recipients had undergone series of trainings to ensure effective implementation, monitoring and evaluation of their respective school improvement plans. Training component is one of the elements of the school grant.

Bobier added, “These beneficiaries were trained prior the distribution of grants. They have to go through financial management training to guarantee that their funds will be safeguarded properly. We just pray that they [beneficiaries] will use this grant effectively to totally upgrade the quality of basic education in the ARMM.”

The BEAM had already trained 2,017 school heads in the region on planning for school improvement and other mechanisms. Workshops were also conducted to develop the plans according to the existent needs of the school which eventually functioned as blueprint for school development.

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan, grateful to BEAM’s continuous assistance to the education sector of ARMM, earlier appealed to the recipients of the grant programs to “utilize them effectively.” (BPI-ARMM*)

ARMM celebrates 109th Philippine Service Anniversary

COTABATO CITY – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) commenced today the month-long commemoration of the 109th Anniversary of the Philippine Service which focuses on recognizing public servants who display exemplary performances towards a quality and productive services to the public.

Themed “Honoring our Heroes in Republic Service – Responsive, Ethical Public Servants with Vision, Impact, Commitment and Excellence,” the Civil Service Commission in the region (CSC-ARMM) emphasizes the devotion, honesty, excellence and sacrifices of heroes in service both to the public and republic.

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan, in his address, salutes all public servants “whose invaluable contributions earned them the rightful place as heroes.”

CSC-ARMM Assistant Commissioner Elmer R. Bartolata cited CSC Memorandum Circular No. 27, Series of 2009, “that the best way for public servants to honor the heroes among us, is not just to extol and reward their achievements, but to emulate their example through republic service.”

Also, in his message, CSC Chairman Ricardo L. Saludo reiterated that “a public servant should be ethical in the highest order of principle and imbue our life with deepest integrity to remain public trust and support.

“The interest and welfare of the people shall always be at hand. The public must come before its servants, as the civil service motto states, "Mamamayan Muna," Saludo further said.

In adherence, the CSC-ARMM is persistent on the completion of agency's Citizen's Charter, help desks and anti-fixer campaigns and staff seminars on customer service as provided by the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007 to immediately address public needs and concerns.

The entire September celebration comprises parlor games, clean up and tree planting, provincial and regional quiz bee and inter-agency friendship games; and will culminate by awarding the Outstanding Officials and Employees in the ARMM, Cultural Show and Family Day.

Regional Governor Ampatuan further challenged civil servants in the region “to commit yourselves to maintaining the standards of civil service at its highest, of keeping the moral and ethical standards of serving the country and of delivering to the people the public service they deserve.”

He urged all personnel of government agencies in the region, local government units, government-owned or controlled corporations and state universities and colleges to take part in the celebration.

“I hope this celebration will further inspire each of us to keep up with the principles of being an ideal and efficient public servant. The ARMM regional leadership is committed to provide a working environment conducive to the professional growth and development of government employees,” Ampatuan said. (BPI-ARMM*)

PGMA releases P50 M for Mindanao River Basin rehab’s master plan

ALABEL, Sarangani – President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo handed over Tuesday a 50 million check to the Mindanao River Basin Task Force for the completion of the comprehensive master plan that will thoroughly control the recurrent flooding in Cotabato City, Maguindanao and neighboring areas in Region 12.
Task Force Chairman Bishop Orlando Quevedo received the check during the joint meeting of the Cabinet and Presidential Task Force Mindanao River Basin Rehabilitation and Development here.

According to Bishop Quevedo, the President gave “short and long term responses” to the problem.

The short-term solution is the continuous dredging of the silted Rio Grande de Mindnaao (Pulangi) and re-channelling of Simuay River, all in Maguindanao, while the long-term solution entails a master plan that includes the establishment of a hydropower system and flood control structures.

In his briefing, Bishop Quevedo said the recent typhoon Jolina affected nearly 200 thousand families in Cotabato City and provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and Sarangani. As of August 20, this year, damage on agricultural products and livestock reached P824 million while destruction to agriculture infrastructure totaled P1.2 billion.

Quevedo lauded the immediate response of the President but appeals to all government agencies and officials involved in the implementation, “we all need a sense of urgency and drive of immediate action.”

Earlier, the Task Force has laid down nine priority flood control rehabilitation projects in the Mindanao River Basin. These are the dredging of the Mindanao River Phase 1 and 2, dredging of the Tamontaka River, Simuay Flood Control Project, construction of access road from Quirino Bridge to Delta Bridge, repair and rehabilitation of Ala River Flood Control Project, channelization and bank protection and the Sultan Barongis Flood Control Project.

The Mindanao River Basin project covers 20,398 square kilometers which includes the marshlands of Liguasan, Libungan, and Ebpanan as well as the provinces of Bukidnon, Maguindanao, North Cotabato and South Cotabato.

ARMM Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan, also the Co-Chairman of Mindanao River Basin Task Force, extends gratitude to President Arroyo for the uninterrupted assistance to flooding problem in Southern Mindanao particularly to areas of the autonomous region.

“The regional government is helpful to the Task Force and exhausting all means to fully implement the necessary schemes to finally resolve the flooding, which brought too much destruction not only to our vital structures and livelihood but to several lives,” Ampatuan said. (BPI-ARMM*)

Japanese Amabassador Turn-over 5 - Classroom School Building

August 26, 2009


Cotabato City-Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Makoto Katsura turned-over yesterday, August 25, 2009, a 5-classroom school-building, fully furnished with tables and chairs worth 8,848,917 Japanese Yen (US $78,309) to the Bai Hanina Sinsuat National High School in Barangay Kusiong, Datu Odin Sinsuat (DOS), Province of Maguindanao.

The project funded through the Embassy of Japan’s Grant Assistance for the Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP) and implemented by the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD) will benefit 210 high school students in the community composed of 80% indigenous peoples (IPs) and 20% Muslims and Christians.

The Japanese government had launched J-BIRD in December of 2006 as part of its commitment to support peace and development efforts in Mindanao. The program has been providing assistance in construction and rehabilitation of school-buildings, training centers and water supply systems through the GGP program.

Ambassador Katsura was joined by DOS Municipal Mayor Datu Ombra Q. Sinsuat, Sr., who donated the 500 sq. meter lot used for the building, in the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon and unveiling of the building marker. Also present during the event are Japanese embassy officials, Bai Alibai Benito Aliuden, Al-Haj, Maguindanao Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, Datu Ibrahim B. Gulan, the school’s founding principal, DSWD-ARMM officials and staff, and the school’s students and their parents.

The Japanese ambassador also personally donated notebooks to the students saying that he was deeply touched when he heard that the school used only four makeshift classrooms and understood how difficult it was for the students and the mentors alike.

“I can just imagine the challenges that the school management had to go through just to provide the student with high quality of education,” Katsura said.

Katsura expressed high hopes that the students will study harder to develop their potentials in a better and more comfortable learning environment.

DOS Municipal Mayor Sinsuat expressed deep gratitude for the very big help and convenience the Japanese government has extended to the people in his municipality.

“We deeply thank the Japanese people for their enormous help to our people especially our students. This time the Japanese landed for peace and not for war,” Sinsuat jokingly said.

Last week, ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan gathered together the prime movers of basic education in the Autonomous Region in the first-ever ARMM Basic Education Donors Forum where the Japanese government represented by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) took part as one of the international donor institutions instrumental in the implementation of key programs to improve the quality of education in the region.

Ampatuan underscored the importance to synchronize efforts in improving the education sector and to maximize the impact of the development assistance from donor institutions such as the government of Japan. (bpi-armm)

ARMM Crafts Regional Gender and Development Code

25 August 2009
ARMM Crafts Regional Gender and Development Code
Cotabato City - The Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Regional Sub-Committee on Gender and Development in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RSCGAD-ARMM) has recently conducted a writeshop on the formulation of a regional Gender and Development (GAD) Code in the ARMM held in Davao City.
The writeshop was aimed to provide knowledge and understanding of the situation of women in the region and learn some techniques on policy development, legislative research and writing as guide in the formulation and crafting of the GAD Code.
RSCGAD intends to craft a substantive regional GAD code that will address the pressing GAD issues and concerns such as violence against women and children, reproductive health, marginalization and exploitation of women, misconceptions on and abuse of polygyny and divorce, issues on early/forced marriages, low level of literacy rate among women, exercise of political rights among women, women’s economic rights, children’s rights and other gender biases.
Regional Planning and Development Office (RPDO-ARMM) Executive Director Diamadel Dumagay encouraged the members of the RSCGAD-TWG during the opening program of the three-day writeshop to be conscious and be realistic in considering the condition confronting women and children in the region.
The ARMM GAD Code is one of the identified priority bills of the present 6th Regional Assembly of the ARMM, added Dumagay.
As sub-committee of the Regional Social Development Committee (RSDC) of the Regional Economic and Development Planning Board (REDPB), the highest policy-making body of the Autonomous Regional Government, the RSCGAD was established in 2007 to intensify the regional government’s efforts in mainstreaming Gender and Development (GAD) in the region.
The said writeshop was initiated by the RSCGAD in partnership with RPDO-ARMM, the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). (bpi-armm)

UNICEF beefs up assistance for Maguindanao children

COTABATO CITY – The United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF) assured that they will continue extending assistance to children affected in armed conflict in Maguindanao province. This was announced by Vanessa Tobin, UNICEF Representative in the Philippines, during her visit here on August 19.

Tobin talked with the representatives of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), all of Maguindanao, and different non-government organizations (NGOs) operating in the province.

The DepEd-Maguindanao documented, in Datu Piang town alone, almost 3,000 school children who were affected in the recent sporadic clashes between government troops and elements of Moro Islamic Liberation front (MILF).

The PPDO also recorded 18,546 children-turned-Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS) in Maguindanao who were compelled to stop schooling due to continuous massive evacuation.
School children currently have classes under the trees, vacant buildings or houses and even in damaged classrooms. Most school buildings were devastated. Other schools have their tables, chairs and blackboards also damaged.

Further, Emma Ali of DSWD-Maguindanao laid out their plans of putting up Temporary Learning Centers (TLC) in evacuation centers for the children to resume schooling, “but the problem is we don’t have records on who are returning homes and who are staying.”

However, Ali noted that they have already identified two (2) resettlement areas in Datu Piang and Datu Saudi Ampatuan towns for families who could not able to go back anymore to their respective places of origin “because their houses were already burned.”

Community and Family Services International (CFSI), an NGO based here, also established Child Friendly Spaces in some areas in the province.

The DSWD has proposed 20 TLCs for Datu Piang alone – the most affected municipality in the province since war broke in July, last year.

In response, Tobin said that an interacted plan for Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and primary education should be put in place. Also, the setting up of a structured cluster that would ensure child protection is immediate.

ECCD through Republic Act 8980 is a comprehensive policy and national system that seeks to provide the basic holistic needs of children in the country.

“As vanguard for children’s rights, we must guarantee support to children and refuge for children. Let us provide support for early learning. I will be here frequently to help you in this effort,” Tobin said.

Governor Datu Sajid Islam Uy Ampatuan thanked the UNICEF for the incessant support to Maguindanao particularly in the case of children affected in war while ensuring cooperation for a genuine implementation of its programs. (BPI-ARMM*)

ARMM holds first ever basic education donors forum

Davao City - Prime movers of basic education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) pooled together today in the first ever ARMM Basic Education Donors Forum this city.

Organized by the Department of Education (DepEd)-ARMM, the Regional Planning and Development Office (RPDO) and the Oversight Committee on Strengthening Development Assistance Coordination (OC-SDAC) in ARMM, the forum was attended by various local and international donor institutions.

In attendance were heads and representatives of the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Asian Development Bank, Japan International Cooperation Agency, United Nations Children Fund, Department of Education-National Office, Mindanao Economic Development Council, International Labor Organization, Department of Public Works and Highways, Consulate of Malaysia and ARMM’s key cabinet officials.

The forum was intended to synchronize efforts to improve the region’s education sector and to maximize the impact of official development assistance.

ARMM Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan, in a message read by Executive Sec. Oscar Sampulna, said his administration recognizes the importance of basic education in poverty alleviation and in peace and development in general.

He said 52.8%, or equivalent to P5.2 billion, of the proposed budget of ARMM for 2009 will go to DepEd-ARMM to support urgent needs of the education sector.
Ampatuan lauded the DepEd-ARMM for coming up with a development plan and a six-year strategic plan on basic education.

The ARMM chief likewise requested members of donor institutions to consider the policies and guidelines on official development assistance adopted by the regional government in support to the 2005 Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness.

The said policies are designed to make the most of the aids being received by the region.

Ampatuan has already called for the creation of committees to manage the utilization of development assistance including on education such as the OC-SDAC.

DepEd-ARMM Secretary Udtog Kawit said the help from donor institutions has been largely instrumental in the implementation of key programs on improving the quality and access to basic education in the region.

“We were able to undertake innovative programs to improve basic education in the region with the help of our partners in the donor communities,” he said.

Kawit said the department’s budget barely suffices for the salaries of its more than 20,000 teachers and other employees.

The department is still in need of sufficient funds to invest on school infrastructures and other facilities, he said.

Kawit said they are looking forward to the enactment of House Bill 37 otherwise known as the Basic Education Act of ARMM in the Regional Assembly (RA), which is being fully endorsed by the ARMM Governor.

The Basic Education Act of ARMM seeks to strengthen basic education in the region. Its salient features were among the highlights presented during the forum.

DepED Undersecretary Manaros Boransing, who represented Secretary Jesli Lapus, lauded the efforts of the ARMM government in improving the state of education in the region. He noted the close working relationship between the DepEd National and the ARMM regional government under the present administration.

The donor community unanimously responded positively and vowed to continue their assistance to improve the quality of education in ARMM. (bpi-armm)

Ampatuan heads HELP-CM Task Force in ARMM

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao – Regional Governor Dat Zaldy Uy Ampatuan of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) lauded the national government’s effort of creating Health, Education, and Livelihood Progress in Central Mindanao Task Force (HELP-CM Task Force) in pursuance to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s Administrative Order 267 signed on June 29, this year.

In a consultation held Tuesday at the Provincial Capitol here, the governor said that the Task Force will serve as convergence mechanism for Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) efforts in dealing with the effects of conflict in Central Mindanao particularly in the areas of autonomous region.

“It is a privilege for me to be a member of HELP-CM Task Force. As such, the national government recognizes our value as the ones who knew entirely the real state of the region especially the on-going conflict and the plight of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). We are the key players here,” Ampatuan said.
The governor also derides the claim of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that they are the representatives of the Bangsamoro people in region.

He said, “We are the real representatives or spokespersons of the Bangsamoro people here because we are elected by the people. We are not only legally mandated by the Constitution, this is our moral obligation to the people.”

Moreover, Maguindanao Governor Datu Sajid Islam Uy Ampatuan, also a member of HELP-CM Task Force, hoped that the war would eventually end as he hails the implementation of Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) and calls for the resumption of peace talks with the MILF.

“I am praying that the communities are now safe for the IDPs. They should be allowed to return to their places of origin. With SOMO and HELP-CM Task Force, they will finally live normally,” Ampatuan said.

Col. Medardo P. Geslani, 601st Brigade Commander, Philippine Army, responded that “all areas in the province are secured, as long as MILF will not cross the threshold.”

Geslani further justified their continued presence in the area, “There are troop deployments because there are lawless elements, but I can assure the IDPs that we already secured the area and could now return homes safely. (BPI-ARMM*)

ARMM Gov calls Gov’t Peace Panel to slow down; backs SOMO

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao – Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) called on the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) Peace Negotiation Panel not to rush up in coming with a final peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The ARMM chief executive made his call during the consultation on Tuesday at the Provincial Capitol here conducted by the government peace panel chief Undersecretary Rafael Seguis.

Ampatuan said that there should be a proper consultation with the different stakeholders in Maguindanao including the town mayors and barangay officials to institute a feasible outline that would resolve genuinely the continuing conflict.

“If you [GRP Peace Negotiation Panel] really care for Mindanao, you should consult the mayors, the local government units and even up to the barangay level -- all sectors in the society. This is the only way to attain legitimate peace in ARMM and we are very willing to take part of it,” Ampatuan said.

In response, Seguis assured that the government’s team is exhausting all means to decisively craft the final agreement citing, “I will never allow another TRO [Temporary Restraining Order]. If this would happen, the people will never believe the government again.”

Seguis is referring to the TRO the Supreme Court (SC) issued when the MoA-AD is about to be officially signed in July 2008. In October of the same year, the SC declared MoA-AD unconstitutional.

Further, Seguis laid out the upshot of initial talks with the MILF Negotiating Panel which have just resumed communication in July 28 and 29, this year, after almost a year of stalemate.

Both panels agreed to effort mutually the sustenance of Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO)/Suspension of Military Actions (SOMA) in the conflict-affected areas, acknowledge that Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MoA-AD) is an unsigned and initialed document which needs reframing on substantial consensus points, design a mechanism that would protect non-combatants in armed conflict and beefing up International Contact Group.

Governor Ampatuan, on the other hand, gives surety that the regional government is backing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) pronouncement of SOMO/ SOMA in the conflict areas.

“The entire ARMM Regional Government supports the strategies to conclusively design the GRP-MILF final compact without jeopardizing the plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the province,” Ampatuan said. (BPI-ARMM*)

RG Ampatuan-Ambassador Seguis

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (right) reiterates to government peace panel chair Rafael Seguis his all out support to the government peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. He, however, emphasized the need for a proper consultation with all the stakeholders, especially the local government officials, before any peace agreement will be signed. (bpi-armm)

RG Ampatuan-Senate President Enrile

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (left) in a huddle with Senate President Hon. Juan Ponce Enrile during the wedding of Datu Amir Ampatuan-Macapendeg, grandson of former Maguindanao Governor Datu Andal Ampatuan, Sr. with Bai Pangandongan Dilangalen, daughter of Maguindanao First District Rep. Didagen Dilangalen. Regional Governor Ampatuan took time in discussing with the senate president the 2010 ARMM proposed budget amounting to P12.6 Billion where the latter expressed support. (bpi-armm)

GSKP folks benefit ARMM projects

GEN. SALIPADA K. PENDATUN, Maguindanao – The Autonomous Regional Government through the ARMM Social Fund Project (ASFP) has continue to beef up its programs and projects to continuously address the basic needs of poor communities in the five-province autonomous region.

Most recent is Barangay Ramcor here, where ASFP thru Japan International Coordinating Agency (JICA) funds extended P1.5 million-assistance under its Community Development Assistance (CDA) sub-component project for the construction of a two-classroom school building and multi-purpose center.

These projects are included in the 2009 Community Investment Plan realized by People’s Organization (PO) named Ramcor Farmers Association (RFA) and barangay local officials to enhance the delivery of basic education and other social services for the people of Ramcor.

As of 2007 census, Barangay Ramcor has a population of 2,469 with a total land area of 992.64 hectares which depends mostly on farming [rice and corn] as livelihood.

PO President Zaldy Akil said that education in Ramcor is poor due to room scarcity citing “there are only two rooms established for the entire secondary school.”

“That is why; we agreed to first establish the school building for Bai Tambabai National High School. We could no longer endure seeing our children transferring from one place to another, like warehouse [bodega], just to continue learning. We believe that through education, we are building a foundation for further development in our barangay,” Akil said.

Moreover, a third year high school student, Jackyrie Datukan, in high spirit with the on-going construction of two classrooms stressed, “once the construction is completed, we will no longer bicker for space and soon we will be studying quietly.”

“Often, the class is so noisy because of aridness and limited space. We bear all those just to be in school. We are so happy that soon we can concentrate with our lessons,” Datukan said.

The ASFP adapts the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach in initiating projects in the communities. The people’s organization who knew most the needed projects in their communities, are the ones responsible in the implementation. Stakeholders have lauded such method for it established transparency, accountability and unity in the grassroots.

Barangay Chairman Tikboy Kali expressed gratitude to the regional government and the ASFP for giving them an opportunity to become one of the beneficiaries of its flagship projects.

Meanwhile, Atty. Mustapha Sambolawan, ASFP Project Manager, said the community-based infrastructure projects manifest the regional government’s effort to enhance the socio-economic condition of the people.

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan is confident that with the ASFP projects, the Autonomous Regional Government will continue to empower communities as well as improve the living conditions of the people, thereby creating sustainable development and peace in the region.

The CDA project component is part of the 2.47 billion yen commitment of Japan government through JICA fund which started in 2005 to support the peace and development program of the Government of the Philippines. (BPI-ARMM)

Marawi firm inks MoU with Bukidnon farmers

COTABATO CITY – The annual business convention in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has envigorated economic activities and is gaining ground as various business sectors are pushing new efforts to increase trade and investments in the region.

The recent 7th ARMM Business Congress paved way for Bukidnon farmers to seal a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a manufacturing company based in Marawi city.

Signed on August 6, this year, the Manobo Tribal Communities Association, Inc. (MATRICA) of Barangay Kalagangan, San Fernando, Bukidnon agreed to produce soya beans and other raw materials for Suming Lee Food Processing Plant.

Suming Lee manufactures food energy drink made of soya beans marketed all over the autonomous region and neigboring areas.

The project with an area of 3,000 hectares of land is estimated to cost P800 million or US$20 million, once finalized. The parties settled to study the joint venture and had arranged future discussions and agreements.

Beforehand, La Frutera Inc., based in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao is the biggest investment so far in the autonomous region.

It was in 1997 when Ultrex and Chiquita Unifrutti, major fruit companies in the world, agreed to a 20-year contract with La Frutera Inc. – the first large-scale banana plantation in the ARMM. Chiquita Unifrutti bought La Frutera’s bananas, market them under the Chiquita and Unifrutti brands, and then export them abroad.

La Frutera has continue to provide jobs to Muslim and Christian residents, not only in Datu Paglas, but also in municipalities of nearby Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces. It prides itself to have links in Japan, Korea, and China as well as some countries in the Middle East and Europe.

Moreover, ARMM officials are recently stepping up its efforts to make the region the country’s Halal hub by striving Halal Fraud Bill to become a law. The measure will control devious businesses and practices regarding Halal foods as well as protect consumers from products that pose danger to health and safety.

Participants of the two-day congress held in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur have expressed confidence on ARMM's ability to make a major economic turnaround, especially with its participation in the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). (BPI-ARMM)

7th ARMM Biz Confab coins Polloc as ‘Peace Zone’

COTABATO CITY – A Resolution declaring Barangay Polloc as a ‘Zone of Peace’ wrapped up the 7th Business Congress in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) held in Marawi City, province of Lanao del Sur on August 5 to 6, this year.

With the theme “Maximizing Investment Gains to Propel Economic Development in ARMM,” more than a hundred entrepreneurs from various business entities around the five-province autonomous region unanimously supported the Resolution pronouncing Polloc as a ‘Peace Zone’ that would serve as gateway to attract and induce local and foreign businessmen to invest in ARMM.

Barangay Polloc in the municipality of Parang, Maguindanao homed the 123 hectare-Polloc Port that has a potential to be transformed into an international seaport and trading center, according to ARMM officials.

The seaport had already started a facelift in December 2008 when ARMM Social Fund Project (ASFP), a program funded by the World Bank and Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) extended P22.8 million. The concreting of road network within the port zone and installation of rubber fenders in the berthing area was already completed. The rehabilitation decreased rate of accidents and damages to cargoes and port users.

The resolution stressed that Polloc’s declaration as ‘Peace Zone’ is imperative “to create an environment where development can overcome insurgency, restore economic setbacks and create jobs.”

ARMM Business Council (ABC) Chairperson Haron Bandila said that the move will persuade investors both local and foreign to dedicate their capital investments and locate their business enterprises in the ARMM economic zone in Barangay Polloc.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines also made share in the effort on Polloc as ‘Peace Zone’ by establishing a peace landmark that will serve as significant marker on its economic importance.

Earlier, ARMM officials is expecting Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan to declare Polloc as its first economic zone before the year ends – a vital strategy to make ARMM in a competitive position in the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

ARMM Deputy Executive Secretary, Atty. Ishak Mastura, also the chair of Regional Economic Zone Authority (REZA) said that the idea to develop Polloc as ecozone is consistent with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s goals and objectives in creating an era of peace and development in the country.

“The ARMM regional govenrment is optimistic that the attempt would promote permanent solution to secessionist problem,” Mastura said.

The resolution was signed August 6 by ABC Chairperson Bandila, Regional Board of Investments (RBOI), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-ARMM), City Government of Marawi and Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur.

Governor Ampatuan foresees making Polloc Port a premier gateway of trade and commerce not just in mainland ARMM and Central Mindanao but throughout the BIMP-EAGA. (BPI-ARMM)

2nd REGULAR BOARD MEETING

2nd REGULAR BOARD MEETING- (inset photo) ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (3rd from left) presides the 2nd Regular Meeting of Regional Economic and Development Planning Board (REDPB) held at the Office of the Regional Governor, Cotabato City on August 3, 2009. With the regional governor are (left to right) ARMM Regional Assembly Speaker Rejie Sahali-Generale, RPDO Executive Director Diamadel Dumagay, ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna, Sr, ARMM Solicitor General Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi and Maguindanao Provincial Governor Datu Sajid Islam Uy Ampatuan. (bpi-armm)

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (center) listens while PC/Supt Felicisimo Villamor Khu, Jr. (left) Commander of Joint Task Force on Anti Terrorism in Region 12, briefs him on the status of the peace and order and peace efforts of the task force. With Governor Ampatuan is Maguindanao Provincial Governor Datu Sajid Islam Uy Ampatuan (right). (bpi-armm)

New Member of REDPB

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan (2nd front left) administers the oath-taking of Maguindanao Provincial Governor Datu Sajid Islam Uy Ampatuan as new member of the Regional Economic Development Planning Board (REDPB) during the 2nd regular meeting of the REDPB on August 3, 2009 at the Office of the Regional Governor, Cotabato City. Witnessing the oath-taking ceremony are ARMM Executive Secretary Oscar Sampulna, Sr.(left), ARMM Solicitor General Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi (right) and RPDO Executive Director Diamadel Dumagay (center). (bpi-armm)

ARMM declares Aug. 6 holiday; observes Nisfu Sha’ban

COTABATO CITY – The Autonomous Region Government declares Thursday, August 6, as Special Non-Working Holiday in the entire Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in observance of Nisfu Sha’ban.

ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan appeals to all government employees and constituents of ARMM to “commemorate this religious event in a manner appropriate for the said occasion.”

Nisfu Sha’ban is a religious and historical day in the Muslim world which is observed every 15th of Sha’ban, the eight month of the Hijrah calendar. This year, Nisfu Sha’ban, falls on August 6.

The occasion gathers all Muslims in the world on a night of worship and salvation. Some view it as special night of seeking forgiveness and repentance to Allah. (BPI-ARMM)

ARMM bares sympathy on Aquino’s death; extends condolences

COTABATO CITY – The regional government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) expressed sympathy over the passing away of an “icon of democracy” on the dawn of August 1. Former President of the Philippines, Corazon Aquino, passed away at the age of 76 after a long battle of colon cancer.

Earlier, in his message, ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan said that the people of the autonomous region are forever grateful to President Aquino for her role in restoring democracy in the country and for being the “Mother of the ARMM.”
President Cory signed into law on August 1, 1989 Republic Act 6734, an act creating the ARMM.

“President Aquino shall forever be an inspiration to every Filipino, especially to the people of ARMM,” he said.

Furthermore, the 2nd Regular Board Meeting of Regional Economic and Development Planning Board (REDPB) has approved today [August 3] a board resolution expressing condolence to the Aquino Family.

The Resolution stated that during President Aquino’s administration, “she manifested sincerity and courage in finding a peaceful political settlement to the Mindanao problem” and “contributed tremendously to the socio-economic development of the ARMM.”

In sympathy, the ARMM regional government observes August 5 a non-working special holiday to make way for Aquino's scheduled burial and 10-day period of national mourning [August 01-10] , as declared by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

“I hope that the Filipino nation will continue to live up to the hopes and dreams of President Cory even with her demise,” Governor Ampatuan, also the Chairman of REDPB, said. (BPI-ARMM)

USAID-EcoGov aids ARMM LGUs in environmental stewardship thru FLUP

COTABATO CITY – The Philippine Environmental Governance (EcoGov) Program of the United States Agency for International Developments (USAID) assists two (2) local government units in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) for the proper environmental stewardship and management through the implementation of Forest Land Use Plan (FLUP) scheme – a component of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) program.

The local governments of Wao in Lanao del Sur and Upi in Maguindanao have yielded productive gains in their implementation of FLUP which highlight the preservation of forests and forest lands not only to allay climate change and promote ecological balance, but also, to boost the economic and social well-being of the people.

The FLUP serves as a guide to all sectors in monitoring activities and conversion in the forest and forestlands. As such, illegal activities such as kaingin, poaching, and illegal loggings are immediately responded. The local governments laid concrete resolutions to respond on various threats particularly in the watershed and open access areas through transparent, accountable and participatory forest land use planning process.

Wao has 19,000 hectares of forests and forestlands where 2,000 hectares are watershed areas while Upi has 20,000 hectares of forest and forestlands where half is already under the stewardship of Integrated Forest Management Agreement (IFMA).

As stipulated in the FLUP implementing rules and regulations (IRR), the two (2) local governments sealed a Co-Management Agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the region (DENR-ARMM) and legitimate farmer organizations that would ensure direct stewardship of its watershed and open access areas.

Wao Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Lominog Polayagan, “Open access areas in our forests are unsupervised that’s why anybody could enter and make illegal activities. Some areas have tenures but tenants neglected its responsibility. This contributes to deforestation and near-extinction of our remaining forest resources.”

On May 2008, the local government of Wao, DENR-ARMM and Banga Farmers and Watershed Development Cooperative (BFWDC) signed a Co-Management Agreement to guarantee proper stewardship of its 2,000 hectare-water shed areas. The 130 members of BFWDC already received Individual Property Rights (IPR) to ensure security of tenure of their tilled lands.

This year, on May 18, local government of Upi had signed the same agreement with DENR-ARMM and now preparing for an ordinance [already passed the first hearing] to pave way in issuing IPR to legitimate farmers.

The FLUP has paved way for the two (2) municipalities to establish farm-to-market roads, nursery, monitoring station and farmers’ training center. They had also employed forest rangers to ensure monitoring of illegal activities in the watershed and open access areas.

Local officials encourage the farmers to pursue the inter-cropping scheme where aside from corn and coffee, farmers could plant other crops especially rubber and fruit trees that could contribute in the restoration of forest and forestlands of Upi and Wao.

“After 10 years, the people will glimpse the fruit of their continuous effort of protecting and preserving our forest and forestlands. They will harvest what they sow now,” Wao and Upi Chief Executives, Elvino Balicao Jr. and Ramon Piang said.

On the other hand, ARMM Regional Governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan extend gratitude to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s CLUP program, where FLUP was carved, and to the Local Governments of Wao and Upi and their constituents who exerted untiring efforts in pushing autonomous regional government’s thrust in maintaining the existing natural forest.

The FLUP aims to enhance the ecological and environmental functions of the forests and forest lands, and to improve biodiversity while increasing resource capacity to support the livelihood of the people in upland areas. (BPI-ARMM)

A boy catches the food ration from his roof given by DSWD-ARMM and OCD-Maguindanao on July 29, 2009 in Bulalo, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. There are now 10 barangays affected by the flashflood that reaches 5 feet deep. A total of 7,425 families were affected by the flashflood that started Sunday, July 26, 2009. (bpi-armm)

DSWD-ARMM Regional Secretary Bai Soraida Biruar (center with white cap) leads the food distribution to the victims of flash flood in their respective homesin Bulalo, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. Secretary Biruar uses banca 9center, inset photo) with her staff and representatives from Office on Civil Defense -Maguindanaowho on July 29, 2009. Flashfloods starts on July 26, 2009. Affected families reaches 7,425 families as of July 29, 2009 according to DSWD-ARMM reports.(bpi-armm)

ARMM Namahagi ng Relief Assistance

BULALO, SULTAN KUDARAT, MAGUINDANAO – Personal na namigay ng supply ng pagkain (kanin at sardinas)si DSWD-ARMM Secretary Soraida Biruar sa mga pamilyang na apektuhan ng pagbaha at hinde makalabas ng kanilang bahay dahil sa taas ng tubig baha dito sa nabanggit na barangay gamit ang mga banca kaninang tanghali( araw ng Miyerkulis) .

Ayon sa report (as of July 29, 12noon) mula sa DSWD-ARMM mayroong 7,425 na pamilya ang naapektuhan ng nasabing pagbaha dahil sa flashflood na nagsimula noong araw ng linggo, July 26, 2009.

Kaagad na nagbigay ng direktiba si ARMM regional governor Datu Zaldy Uy Ampatuan sa Provincial Government ng Maguindanao at sa DSWD-ARMM na tugunan ang pangangailangan ng mga biktima ng nasabing kalamidad.

Bilang tugon, ang provincial government ng Maguindanao ay nagbigay ng bigas. Samantala, nagsagawa naman ang DSWD-ARMM sa tulong ng mga volunteers ng community kitchen upang matulungan ang pangangailangan sa pagkain ng mga naapektuhan na mga residente ng nasabing lugar.

Ayon kay Secretary Biruar araw-araw nyang emonitor ang kalagayan at tignan ang pangangailangan ng mga biktima. Dagdag pa nya na mayroong sapat na supply o relief goods para sa mga biktima at tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang kanyang paghingi ng suporta sa mga partner humanitarian agencies.

Ang sampung barangay na napektuhan – barangay Bulalo (1,484 pamilya), Salimbo (1,107 pamilya), Calsada (1,312 pamilya), Banubo (500 ka pamilya), Katuli (1,033), Mulaog (360 pamilya), Limbo (1,075 ka pamilya), barangay Gang (360 ka pamilya) at barangay Senditan (200 ka pamilya).

Samantal ang DOH-ARMM ay nagsagawa na rin ng kanilang monitoring. As of press time, ayon sa report ng DOH-ARMM mayroong mga nagkonsulta na at inerereklamo ang pananakit ng ulo, lagnat, sipon, ubo at skin diseases. Sapat naman ang kanilang gamot ayon sa DOH-ARMM. (bpi-armm)

EU Ambassador Alistair Macdonald (left) and Datu Saudi Ampatuan Mayor Datu Saudi B. Ampatuan (2nd, left) and DSWD-ARMM personnel listen to Ali Omar, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) focal person of Dapiwan evacuation center, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao as he narrates their life at the evacuation center for almost a year now. He said his house was burned down during the height of the conflict in their barangay. They will only go home if they will see reduction of forces to prevent skirmishes again. Ambassador Macdonald and other officials from European Commission visited the IDPs on July 29, 2009(bpi-armm)

SOMO and SOMA

Netherland Ambassador H.E. Robert Brinks(right) and World Food Program Country Head Stephen Anderson (2nd right) conversed to DSWD-ARMM Regional Secretary Bai Soraida Biruar (left) about the situation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the evacuation centers of Datu Saudi Ampatuan Municipality. Secretary Biruar appeal for assistance especially livelihood for the IDPs. She said with the declaration of the SOMO and SOMA they are now preparing to implement recovery and rehabilitation program in the affected areas in Maguindanao. (BPI-ARMM)