Maitum bicycles

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) – To beat the high cost of fueland fare, Maitum residents are using bicycles to school, the market and everywhere near the poblacion. (Photo by Beth Palma Gil/MAITUMINFORMATION OFFICE)

Gas-free rides

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) - Maitum residents, young andold, turn to the old-reliable ride around town Saturday, September 27.The bicycle craze has relegated motorized tricycles to the sidelinesas passengers have dwindled. (Photo by Beth Palma Gil/MAITUMINFORMATION OFFICE)

Village fiesta

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) – During festivities Sarangani's villages are as peaceful and merry like this fiesta in Lamlifew village Friday, September 26. (Photo by BobbySaya-ang/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Shy bride

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) – A shy bride and her groomface the community during the civil marriage of 40 Blaan couples officiated by Mayor Reynaldo Constantino in Lamlifew village's"Kasalan ng Bayan" Friday, September 26. (Photo by BobbySaya-ang/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Village welcome

Malungon, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) – Residents of Lamlifew village in Malungon welcome Governor Migs Dominguez as they celebrate Safkaan Festival (safkaan is a Blaan word which means "eat") Friday,September 26. Yacap party-list Rep. Carol Lopez is one of guests at Lamlifew where the School of Living Tradition (SLT) is based. SLT willopen the Tribal Village Museum on October 27. (Photo by Bon-BonQuiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Village celebration

MALUNGON, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) - Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon gives his message to the people of barangay Tamban in Malungon as they celebrate their foundation anniversary Friday,September 26. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Books

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) - A soldier of the 25thInfantry Battalion distributes books to children in barangay SisonFriday, September 26, with books from Operation Blessing Foundation,Inc.. (Photo by Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Books for children

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) – Children pose with civilianand military officials who gave them books Friday, September 26, inbarangay Sison. The book distribution is initiated by the 25th Infantry Battalion, Operation Blessing Foundation Inc., and themunicipal government. (Photo by Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATIONOFFICE)

Soldier's gifts

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) – Army Major Rolando Rodil,commander of 25th Infantry Battalion, hands over books to barangayofficials of Sison Friday, September 26, for the library of Sison Elementary School in partnership with Operation Blessing Foundation,Inc., as Mayor Elsie Perrett (2nd from right) looks on. (Photo byAfren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Classroom donation

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 28, 2008) - Mayor Elsie Perrett announcesFriday, September 26, that she got a five-classroom donation for SisonElementary School from Senator Migz Zubiri. (Photo by Afren deGuzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Town library

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 25, 2008) – Mayor Rom Falgui greets Steven Rood (2nd from right), country representative and regional advisor for local governance of the Asia Foundation, at the Kiamba municipal library. Joining them are Vice Mayor Elmer de Peralta (extreme left) and municipal administrator Maria Luz Go. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS & INFORMATION CENTER)

Asia Foundation visit

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 25, 2008) - Steven Rood (2nd from right), country representative and regional advisor for local governance of the Asia Foundation, visits Mayor Rom Falgui (left) on September 17 after the foundation donated books to Kiamba public library. Looking on are Cecile Dominguez, executive director of Conrado & Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, and municipal administrator Maria Luz Go. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS & INFORMATION CENTER)

Coastal cleaner

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 25, 2008) – A young boy looks for thrash amid the Celebes Sea surf during the celebration of the International Coastal Clean-up Day Wednesday, September 24, at Poblacion, Kiamba, Sarangani. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

International Coastal Clean-up Day

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 25, 2008) – Students from Kiamba National High School and Kiamba Elementary School join the coastal clean-up Wednesday, September 24, in celebration of the International Coastal Clean-up Day. The activity is a joint effort of the local government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Department of Education. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

Open Statement of Gov. Migs Dominguez

The Valentine Palamine Command of the New People's Army (NPA) recently hurled charges against me for my alleged participation and role in the ongoing clashes between government soldiers and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the hinterlands of Maasim and nearby towns.

Much as I wanted to answer every point the Valentin Palamine Command has raised against me, prudence dictates that it is not in the best interest of the people of Sarangani that I engage myself in a debate with them in the local and national media.

Let me put this in record, I will never allow myself to be used in deceiving, intimidating and, much more, violating the human rights of the people of Sarangani. My people can attest to this.

What happened in Maasim last August 18 is a known fact that innocent civilians were killed and private properties were lost when the MILF treacherously attacked the town.

I cannot in conscience allow such deplorable acts to ever happen again. Thus, my government will do everything in its capacity to protect our people and give justice to the innocent civilians who were brutally executed.

That said, I want to put a close to this issue.

My lines will always remain open to everybody just as I am always accessible to residents in the province.

I want peace to reign in the province. But peace must be based on justice and mutual respect for each other's beliefs.

We will continue to seek lasting peace with honor and justice for my people.

(Sgd) MIGUEL RENE A. DOMINGUEZ
Governor

Earthquake/fire drill

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 24, 2008) – Students surround a municipal rescue team attending to a "victim" during an earthquake and fire drill Tuesday, September 23, at Notre Dame of Maitum campus. The Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council and the school demonstrated how to rescue a disaster victim as part of the town's disaster preparedness program. (Photo by Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mayor donates blood

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 23, 2008) – Mayor Rom Falgui (lying on) chats with a volunteer during a blood-letting activity at Kiamba Civic Center on Monday, September 22. Falgui leads hundreds of blood donors joining the activity sponsored by the Philippine National Red Cross and Smart Communications in coordination with the local government of Kiamba. (Photo by Allan de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS AND INFO CENTER)

Peace-keepers

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 23, 2008) - Major Rolando Rodil, battalion commander of 25th Infantry Battalion, asks for the cooperation of the community during the town hall flag ceremony Monday, September 22. The officer explained the military is not running after the MILF as a whole but only after the lawless MILF elements who committed atrocities and those with warrants of arrest. (Photo by Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Local government support

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 23, 2008) – In behalf of constituents, Vice Mayor Tito Balazon expresses his thanks to soldiers of the 25th Infantry Battalion who "are here to protect us and help maintain peace and order." The troops are on formation at the town hall grounds Monday, September 22. Three barangays of Maitum were pillaged and civilians held hostage when rogue elements of Moro Islamic Liberation Front from Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat attacked in June. (Photo by Afren de Guzman/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Children's books

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 23, 2007) – Cecile Dominguez (3rd from right), executive director of Alcantara Foundation, and Joel Aton (4th from right), community relations officer of Southern Philippines Power Corporation give children's books to pupils at Ladol Elementary School Monday, September 22. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Book donation

MALAPATAN, Sarangani (September 23, 2007) – Executive director Cecile Dominguez of Alcantara Foundation gives a book to one of the 20 high school scholars of Southern Philippines Power Corporation at Lun Padidu National High School Monday, September 22. Other schools given books the same day are Malapatan National High School and Ladol Elementary School. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Prayer for peace

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 23, 2008) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (center) leads the prayer for peace in Sarangani together with Capitol employees during the flag ceremony Monday, September 22, in celebration of the Peace Consciousness Month and International Peace Day with the theme "Baklay-Lakbay Alang sa Kalinaw". (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Peace consciousness month

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 23, 2008) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon talks about peace during the flag ceremony at Capitol compound Monday, September 22, and shares his ideas about peace and conflict. This is in celebration of the Peace Consciousness Month and the International Peace Day with the theme "Baklay-Lakbay Alang sa Kalinaw". (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Civilians wave on, salute arriving Army troops

By SERAFIN RAMOS JR.

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 21, 2008) – Hundreds of residents at the coastal highway from Maasim towards Kiamba and Maitum waved on a column of truckloads of soldiers and armored personnel carriers passing by Saturday afternoon (September 20).

Children lining the road were clapping and saluting. People filled the national highway to look at the next arriving military truck or armored personnel carrier.

"Makaturog tayon ti nasayaat (We can sleep well now)," a storekeeper said.

Another resident said "their (military) presence boosts security. I am happy. I feel secured."

"We are just here to enhance the security of the province. That's the reason why the 10th Infantry Division sent us, also to help in the law enforcement operations of the PNP and the AFP in going after those responsible for the last month's atrocities," said Major Rolando R. Rodil, battalion commander of 25th Infantry Battalion.

"We are not really up against MILF as a whole. We are only going after those who were responsible for the atrocities, those who have warrants of arrest," the battalion commander said.

The 40-vehicle military convoy was the biggest deployment seen here since the Moro secessionist war of the 70s.

"I am very pleased that they are here and I welcome them to the municipality of Maitum. They have stated that they are here to protect and preserve the peace of the municipality," said Mayor Elsie Perrett. "I'm very grateful and thankful that they are around."

In June 25, civilians in Maitum were held hostage by rogue elements of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Firefights broke out when heavily-armed men ambushed government troops who were on their way to a crime scene where a civilian volunteer was killed by rebels in barangay Ticulab.
The MILF-triggered evacuation of civilians in three barangays came as villagers were returning to their homes in the aftermath of flashfloods caused by typhoon Frank.

In August 18, rogue MILF forces ransacked Maasim public market as they simultaneously attacked the town hall and police station. Policemen repulsed the attackers.

The rebels also killed two innocent civilians and wounded another.

A warrant of arrest for the crime of murder, destructive arson, arson, robbery with violence against and/or intimidation of persons was issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 38 on September 16 for at least 50 respondents.

According to the information sheet the accused "members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)" committed the crimes "while armed with high powered rifles, conspiring, confederating and mutually helping one another… with deliberate intent… with treachery, abuse of superior strength with the aid of armed men."

Named in the warrant of arrest were Alu Binago alias commander Binago, Samir Malik, Jayon Saligan alias commander Aguilar, Muslimin Suib, Manawi Ibrahim alias commander Lawin, Manso Dimasangkay, Herman Capina alias commander Herman, Tikboy Maguid, Taha Maguid Sapal, Aser Demalon, Jamer Sadabao, Ming Demalon alias Mistah, Bondi Binago, Fata Abduljalil, Kadio Ibrahim alias Alas, Ustadz Absila, Alo Binago Tacbil, Nas Abad, Nasaro Rashid, Masaro Rashid, alias commander Dutch Adtud, Foxton Alisarbe, Arpio San Diego, alias Boy, Morsad Taya, alias Rambo, Samir Maulana, alias Ronnie, Mando Leonsily, alias Pod, Jover Leonsily, alias Aladin, Pelon Leonsily, Alias Mad, Bata Leonsily, alias Taruc, Norasin Ibad, alias Anwar, Mando Dimalankay, alias Nasser, Norsadin Ibad, Yasser Benito, Bata Jalil, Malinog Jalil, Jamer Benito, Mohamad Osop, Abdulrahim Mustafa, Harry Pata, Anwar Mustafa, Berbel Martin and several other unidentified persons. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Army convoy

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 21, 2008) – A military convoy arrives in Maitum Saturday (September 20) to enhance security and help in the law enforcement operations of the PNP. Government troops are not up against MILF as a whole but are only going after those responsible for atrocities and those who have warrants of arrest. (Photo by Beth Palma Gil/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Security

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 21, 2008) – Residents express a feeling of security as an army battalion arrives in Maitum Saturday (September 20). (Photo by Beth Palma Gil/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Welcome

MAITUM, Sarangani (September 21, 2008) – Civilians welcome army troops as they arrive Saturday (September 20). Hundreds of residents along the coastal highway from Maasim towards Kiamba and Maitum waved on the column of truckloads of soldiers and armored personnel carriers passing by with children clapping and saluting. (Photo by Beth Palma Gil/MAITUM INFORMATION OFFICE)

Tourism Orientation

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 18, 2008) – Michelle Solon (right), president of Sarangani Tourism Industry Association (SARTIA), and Maria Fe Yabes–Falgui, chair of Kiamba Municipal Tourism Council, listen to a query by a participant in an open forum Thursday, September 18, as the two served as resource speakers during the Community–Based Tourism Orientation. The activity was designed to tap communities in promoting the town's potential tourist destinations. (Photo by Abner P. Arzaga/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

Opportunity amidst crisis

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 18, 2008) – Michelle Solon, president of Sarangani Tourism Industry Association (SARTIA), encourages the audience during the Community–Based Tourism Orientation on Thursday, September 18, to further enliven Kiamba tourism industry and to effectively defy the town's unfavorable image brought about by peace and order issues. (Photo by Cocoy A. Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Community appreciation

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 18, 2008) – Carolina Lingcong (left), president of livelihood sector in barangay Badtasan where waterfalls can be enjoyed, expresses thanks to Kiamba Tourism Council chairperson Maria Fe Yabes–Falgui (right) for her consistent effort together with the local government's support in helping the communities through tourism. Lingcong is one of the hundred participants attending the Community–Based Tourism Orientation Thursday, September 18. (Photo by Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

World Food Program

MAASIM, Sarangani (September 19, 2008) – Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (center) talks to evacuees Thursday, September 18, as they fall in line to get their half sack of rice from the World Food Program. The World Food Program delivered 1,451 sacks of rice for 2,889 families affected in the aftermath of an attack by rogue Moro Islamic Liberation Front elements in Maasim a month ago. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Meeting children

MAASIM, Sarangani (September 19, 2008) – Children evacuees meet Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (right) in a beach at barangay Kanalo Thursday, September 18, with chocolate drinks from Senate President Manny Villar. Kanalo is one of the barangays affected in the aftermath of an attack by rogue Moro Islamic Liberation Front elements in Maasim a month ago. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Residents disprove desecration of mosque

DALIAO, Maasim, Sarangani (September 18, 2008) – Villagers joined army troops and local officials Wednesday (September 17) to see for themselves a mosque in Camp Khalid bin Walid reportedly devastated by the military.

However, they found out such reports were false.

"Ang mosque diri wala natandog (The mosque here was not touched)," said barangay captain Abdurajes Pangolima, who led scores of other residents to the camp.

"Wala man poy natandog sa mga gamit nila, gamit sa mga brothers natong MILF ok man. Ang mga balay pud mao gihapon (Their things were not touched, things of our brothers MILF are ok. Their houses are just the same)," he added.

The mosque was built at the center of MILF's Camp Khalid bin Walid.

Less than 50 meters from this mosque is an old dilapidated mosque used to be the resting place of the armed group before an encounter took place September 12 some 500 meters away from the camp.

"Hindi totoo na na-disturbo ng military 'yong pagsambayang nila. Kasi kung nagsambayang sila, naabutan sila dyan (It's not true that the military disturbed their prayer because if they did pray, surely they were captured there)," recounted Julis Maguid, a Muslim leader.

"Hindi naman sinunog ang mga bahay. 'Yong mga civilian wala namang order ang military na mag-bakwit ang lahat ng civilian pero yong hindi nakatiis yon ang lumipat (Houses were not burned. The civilians were not ordered by the military to evacuate, but those who were scared really left)," Maguid disclosed.

"Pero kami nandyan man kami hindi po kami umalis (But we were just in our houses. We did not leave)," he said.

The military said it was in Camp Khalid where a rogue MILF group planned the August 18 attack of Maasim poblacion which resulted to the murder of two innocent civilians.

Police provincial director S/Supt. Danilo Peralta, in a press briefing Wednesday morning (September 17), disclosed that according to intelligence reports, Commander Alo Binago, under the command of Commander Ameril Umbra Kato of the 105th MILF base command, arrived in Camp Khalid earlier and led the attack in Maasim poblacion on August 18.

In the said briefing, Peralta showed local media warrants of arrest for Commander Binago, Taha Maguid Sapal alias Commander Taha, Manawi Ibrahim alias Commander Lawin, Jayon Saligan alias Commander Aguilar, and 45 others for murder, frustrated murder, arson, and robbery.

The warrants of arrest were issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 38 Tuesday (September 16).

"With these warrants of arrest, these men are now no less than Commander Umbra Kato and Commander Bravo who are considered as Lawless MILF Groups (LMGs)," Peralta said.

Commander Aguilar is the base camp commander of the 107th base command in Daliao.

Police said the MILF has transferred its 107th base command at least thrice - from Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, then to barangay Pananag in Maasim, and now in Daliao.

"Dito talaga sila nagtagal (They really stayed here longer)," Maguid said.

"Makita ta tanan diri karon nga wala nahitabo sa Mosque, wala mi ga-damage, wala namo gisunog (Now we see for ourselves nothing happened to the mosque, we did not damage it, we did not burn it)," 2nd Lt. Angel Cinco of the 73rd Infantry Battalion told villagers and local officials at the site.

"Kung buot huna-hunaon sa nakita nato nga ebidensiya mao na ang ilhanan nga nagrespeto gyud ta sa ilaha (If we really come to think of it, this evidence show that we really respect them)," a resident who refused to disclose his name said.

"Siyempre ginahimo sa military ang sugo sa ilaha nga sudlon. Normal na kay naay nahitabo (Of course, the military just follow their orders. It's normal because something happened)," another resident said.

Armed men responsible for the attack of Maasim town hall, the police office, and the killing of two innocent civilians were sighted and engaged by patrolling troops of 73rd IB in the area that Friday. The said group has been the subject of complaints by civilians who have virtually evacuated the area for fear of atrocities to be perpetrated by the group.

"Regular yong patrol kasi may persistent report, pag hindi namin ginawa yong pagpa-patrol, eh hindi naming ginagawa yong tungkulin naming," said Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon, battalion commander of the 73rd IB. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Mosque inspection

DALIAO, Maasim, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) – Maasim residents inspect Wednesday, September 17, a mosque in barangay Daliao that was reportedly devastated by artillery shells and assault rifles fired by government soldiers in a military assault September 12. However, not a single glass jalousie of the mosque was broken. (Photo by Jimmy Toribio/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Documentation

DALIAO, Maasim, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) – An unidentified person takes pictures Wednesday, September 17, of a mosque in barangay Daliao that residents found intact and without any damage. The mosque was reportedly devastated by artillery shells and assault rifles fired by government soldiers in a military assault September 12. (Photo by Jimmy Toribio/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Daliao camp

DALIAO, Maasim, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) – Soldiers and residents take a rest Wednesday, September 17, in barangay Daliao at a big hut inside a camp abandoned by rouge Moro Islamic Liberation Front forces who attacked Maasim poblacion on August 18 killing two innocent civilians and ransacked stores in the town public market. (Photo by Jimmy Toribio/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Science camp

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) – Winners of various events during the District-wide Science Encampment on Tuesday, September 16, show their medal prizes with parents, teacher-coaches and local officials. Hundreds of pupils from different schools in the district joined the annual activity with this year's theme, "Science and Technology: Focused on Food Security and Development". (Photo by Ruel D. Ampatin/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

Peace cloth

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) – Army 2nd Lt. Angel Friga R. Cinco (center) of 73rd Infantry Battalion assists pupils of Kitagas Elementary School who stamp their palms on a "peace sign" cloth as part of the culmination activity of Child-Friendly Space in Crisis Situation program on Monday, September 15. The activity which aims to give psychological help among children who are heavily distressed during the peace and order crisis was backed by World Vision, ACT for Peace in Mindanao, Peace Network, Alcantara Foundation Inc., Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Jesuit Volunteers of the Philippines, Department of Education, Project ClassROM and Sarangani Provincial Government. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS AND INFO CENTER)

Peace and Development Community Projects

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) - Mayor Rom Falgui welcomes participants of the ceremonial launching of programs for Kiamba Peace and Development Communities Tuesday, September 16. The ACT for Peace of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the partner of the municipal government in implementing the program. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

Peace and development briefing

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 17, 2008) - Engr. Cynthia Guerra, head of UNDP's Action for Conflict Transformation (ACT) for Peace, orients participants during the ceremonial launching of programs for Kiamba Peace and Development Communities Tuesday, September 16. Part of the ceremony was the turn-over of P509,750 worth of grants intended for community development projects. (Photo by Allan C. de Lima/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER

Maasim peace dialogue

MAASIM, Sarangani (September 16, 2008) - Gov. Migs Dominguez (center), Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon and Lt. Col. Joshua Santiago, commander of the 73rd and 27th Infantry Battalion respectively, hold a peace dialogue Monday, September 15, with village officials, peace organizations and local leaders of Moro and Indigenous People sectors in order to come up with a solution to the peace and order situation in the province particularly in MAKIMA (Maitum-Kiamba-Maasim) areas. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiño/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Kiamba public market

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 16, 2008) – Governor Migs Dominguez (center) enjoys eating halo-halo with Kiamba Mayor Rom Falgui (left) while chatting with market vendor Nelia Gimagan Monday, September 15, a day after an explosion rocked the public market. Civilians remained calm and lived out the incident yet ensured more vigilance and cooperation with the government's anti-terrorism thrust. The blast left no casualty and was probably meant to terrorize the community, according to the military which branded the bombing as a diversionary tactic. Government troops are pursuing rogue elements who attacked Maasim poblacion last month that resulted to the killing of two innocent civilians. (Photo by Ray Daniel/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

Kiamba Mayor calls for community vigilance

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 15, 2008) – Mayor Rom Falgui is calling for cooperation and vigilance among constituents to bring to justice perpetrators of an explosion at the poblacion public market at noon Sunday (September 14).

The blast left no casualty and was "probably meant to terrorize" the community, according to Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon, commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion.

The military said the bombing could be a diversionary tactic.

At the time of the blast, De Leon's men were conducting long-range patrols in Maasim against armed men who attacked Maasim poblacion last month that resulted to the killing two innocent civilians.

"I also want to tell those groups or individuals who planned for this that they did not succeed in sowing fear to the people of Kiamba who continue to embrace peace and justice," said Falgui.

"I believe that justice will be quickly served for this incident," the mayor added.

The military said that the perpetrators had a motive of sowing terror by planting the explosive in a public location.

An eyewitness said a man in blue motorcycle placed a carton box beside Nene Variety Store adjacent to Julius Plastic Ware and immediately left.

The stores were closing half-day after noon on Sundays.

Julius Plastic Ware owner Fernando Palmes said it was an hour later when he left the store that the explosion took place.

"Hindi ko alam kasi wala naman akong kalaban at wala naman akong kagalit na tao (I don't know because I don't have an enemy or grudges with anyone," Palmes said.

Police estimated property damage at P100,000.

"We are now on combat alert status," town police chief Alex Joe Orcajada said.

"We ask the people to calm down because your police authorities and the military are here and we are on alert. We need your cooperation to report to us any suspicious elements so that we can protect you," the police officer said.

The explosion came from yet an undetermined type of bomb, according to Explosives and Ordnance Division team from General Santos City.

"Let us continue our effort of preparing a better future for our children and our beloved municipality. Amidst the trouble we are facing today, let us draw strength from each one of us. Despite our differences in religion, let's help each other in prayer," Falgui said. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Military assures civilians' safety

DALIAO, Maasim, Sarangani (September 14, 2008) – Traffic along the national highway traversing this coastal village was never disrupted even as government troops and an armed group were engaging in sporadic firefights the past two days.

However, Lt. Col. Edgardo De Leon, commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion, said encounters had died down at 2pm Saturday (September 13) and assured residents of safety.

Going west, the highway connects General Santos City and Maasim poblacion to the towns of Kiamba and Maitum.

"Unta hangyo lang, kung pananglitan man na mag gyera, magpalayo lang sa sibilyan intawon," said Daliao barangay captain Abdulrajes Pangolima. "Mao nay pinaka the best na dili madamay ang sibilyan."

Pangolima recalled that on Friday noon (September 12) he just came from sambayang (prayer) when his constituents notified him of the presence of the military going to sitio Macao. After 20 minutes, they heard gunfire near a cellsite tower. The tower is some 150 meters away from a mosque.

The village chief said some residents told him that it was the group of armed men who fired first at the military.

"Haka-haka lang na may tinamaan na mosque, dito ko lang yan narinig pero sa totoo lang wala pang makapagsabi," he added.

De Leon said there was no mosque in the Friday engagement site which is a small area.

"Yong binabanggit po na mosque, wala pong mosque sa encounter areas kasi andon pa po yon malapit sa shoreline. Pinabubulaanan ko na may mosqueng pinagbabaril umano, wala pong ganun," De Leon said.

The military commander said the engagement area is contained just 700 to 800 meters away from the highway. "There's no mosque there. Hindi nag spill-over yong engagement."
"Hindi po natin pinabayaan na lumagpas sa highway yong encounter site. Dahil paglagpas po ng highway andon po yong barangay proper ng Daliao. Hindi ko po pinayagan na lumagpas pa ng highway baka madamay po yong mga civilian." De Leon said.

He said troops on patrol were checking out what residents reported as armed group. "Kahapon nga meron ngang nakita yong mga sundalo na humigit kumulang 20 armado don sa sitio Macao at ng nilapitan ng tropa natin don napo nagkaroon ng engagement or encounter," De Leon said.

"Yong armed group na yon di ko pa po masabi kung anong grupo yon. Baka mga bandido yon kasi wala naman dapat mga armed group dito, in-engage po ng mga tropa natin yong mga bandido," according to De Leon.

On the other hand, De Leon has assured the barangay captain that there was no need for Daliao residents to evacuate because they are protected by the 73rd IB.

"Wala pong naperwisyo so far," De Leon added. "Regular yong patrol kasi may persistent report, pag hindi namin ginawa yong pagpa-patrol, eh hindi naming ginagawa yong tungkulin namin. And the information came from civilians kasi gusto namin bumalik sa normal at takot na takot na sila. Una, hind kami naniwala na may armado don kaya nong nagpatrolya, meron nga talaga."

A military report said armed men responsible for the attack of Maasim town hall and police office was sighted and engaged by patrolling troops of 73rd IB Friday. The said group has been the subject of complaints by civilians who have virtually evacuated the area for more than two weeks already for fear of atrocities to be perpetrated by the group.

As 73rd IB troops were advancing into the hiding places of the armed band, firefights ensued "that killed twenty (20) LMG's (Lawless MILF Group) and wounded several others in Sitio Macao," according to the military report.

The military launched long-range patrols as a follow-up operation on the continuous hunt for those who attacked the PNP station and Municipal Hall of Maasim last August 18, killing two civilians and robbing several stores in the public market.

Armed groups have pillaged communities in Maitum town in June and held civilian hostages as they retreated towards Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat. Sarangani has remained to be peaceful until the armed groups believed to have come from different parts of the region, particularly from Cotabato and Palimbang launched terror actions.

Yesterday afternoon, a team from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Philippine National Red Cross arrived in Daliao to extricate the body of one of those killed in the encounter.

De Leon personally made the request to the ICRC.

De Leon said his troops brought down from the hills the body late yesterday. "He was positively identified by Maasim Chief of Police Insp. Joeffel Remudaro to be Yasser Benito, one of those who took part in raiding Maasim Police Station and filed with criminal case."

"Found in his possession are one pistolized carbine and one Cal. 45. Found in the site were one rifle grenade, one round of RPG (rocket-propelled grenade), two bags and one sack of belongings. The cadaver was brought by persons and vehicle of Maasim LGU (local government unit) to barangay Pananag," De Leon added.

The Maasim Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council reported that as of 8am Sunday (September 14) 781 families with 3,164 dependents are being given relief goods at evacuation centers. (SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Man-shaped pottery

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) – Parts of anthropomorphic (man-shaped) pottery seized in a Maitum police check are held in custody at the Sarangani Provincial Police Office in Alabel. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiňo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Faces and shards

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) – Faces and shards are laid for ocular inspection at the Sarangani Provincial Police Office Thursday, September 11. Dr. Eusebio Dizon, National Museum's archeological team leader, suggested these would be shipped to the National Museum for further analysis and carbon dating. The broken jars are similar to Dizon's finds in Pinol Cave in Maitum town in 1991 dating back 2,000-1,500 years ago. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiňo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Broken faces

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) – Maitum Mayor Elsie Perrett discusses with Dr. Eusebio Dizon of the National Museum details of the broken earthenware faces. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiňo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Bags of artifacts

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) – Policemen assist Dr. Eusebio Dizon, head of National Museum archaeological team, unwrap the 22 bags of artifacts Thursday, September 11, in custody at the Sarangani Provincial Police Office. The bags of shards were recovered by Maitum police on August 19 after informants reported the suspicious cargo. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiňo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Artifacts inspection

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) - Dr. Eusebio Dizon, head of National Museum archaeological team, confirms Thursday, September 11 the authenticity of the artifacts as "genuine" and "good pieces". The broken jars, similar to Dizon's finds in Pinol Cave in Maitum town in 1991 dating back 2,000-1,500 years ago, were recovered by Maitum police loaded in a tricycle in sitio Cawa, barangay Mabay from a banca reportedly coming from Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on August 19. (Photo by Bon-Bon Quiňo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Kasadyaan Festival

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) – Youth performers from barangay Domolok showcase their native Blaan attire Wednesday, September 10, at the 7th Kasadyaan Festival of Alabel, the province's capital town. The week-long Kasadyaan (merriment) festivity ended with different shows and celebrity guests and an anniversary program attended by Rep. Erwin Chiongbian, Gov. Migs Dominguez, Vice Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, Board Members, Alcantara Foundation executive director Cecile Dominguez and Councilor Alma Moreno, Secretary-General of Philippine Councilors League. (Bon-Bon Quiňo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Farmer Field School

KIAMBA, Sarangani (September 11, 2008) – Mr. & Mrs. Ernesto Ruiz (center), a farmer couple in barangay Tambilil show some freshly-harvested palay during the Kiamba Harvest Festival Monday, September 8, demonstrating their success on the recent Farmer Field School initiated by the local government in line with the Sustainable Technology to Accelerate Rice Sufficiency (STARS) project of the Department of Agriculture – SocSkSarGen Food Security Program headed by Eng. Gina Cachuela (with cap). (Abner P. Arzaga/KIAMBA NEWS & INFO CENTER)

Tribute to donors

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 10, 2008) – Laiza Antonino, one of the private donors from General Santos City, receives a plaque of appreciation from Governor Migs Dominguez during the Handog Pasasalamat tribute to donors and volunteers September 5. Senator Mar Roxas graced the occasion as guest speaker. (Photo by Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Smart volunteers

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 10, 2008) – Smart Communications volunteer employees pose with Governor Migs Dominguez (left) and guest speaker Senator Mar Roxas for the September 5 Handog Pasasalamat tribute to volunteers and donors. (Photo by Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Senator Mar Roxas

ALABEL, Sarangani (September 10, 2008) - Senator Mar Roxas tells donors and volunteers that it is worth to honor people who have the heart to serve and to celebrate the existence of their love to fellowmen, to the province and to the country. "When you hear atrocities occur in your place, the first thing that comes to your mind is to leave the area," he said. "No person in his rational mind would stay, but you chose to stay despite the danger just to serve." (Photo by Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)