Please read and sign our online petition against the privatization and sale of Agus-Pulangui.

“The privatization of the Agus and Pulangi power complexes by 2011 as provided by the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, will complicate the peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,” Dr. Melchie Ambalong, president of the Lanao Power Consumers Federation (Lapocof) and MCW commissioner, said. ““Control of territory and natural resources are vital elements in the negotiation. Privatization will stand in the way of the political settlement.” … Read the full article on MindaNews.

“Adan ug Eba” is an innovative radio program tackling women’s rights and issues aired over radio station DXRJ in Iligan City. Hosted by MCW Commissioner Anita Sescon, also Iligan City’s Area Focal Person, the program tackles a wide range of topics including breast feeding, cancer, HIV-AIDS, reproductive tract infection, adolescent sexuality, emotional and mental health, diet, skin care, smoking, drug addiction and healing, and issues on.  Also being regularly discussed in the show are laws promoting and protecting women’s rights on marriage, relationships, violence against women cases, rape and other forms of sexual harassment, and provisions on the UN Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

The Iligan ACG, through the radio program, also partnered with groups such as the Balay Integrated Rehabilitation Center for Total Human Development, Inc. (BIRTHDev) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). BIRTHDev was able to promote their advocacy against child soldiers and proliferation of small arms as well their anti-war toys campaign through the program.  Topics on TAPs for peace and environment were also taken up in partnership with PIA.

Irene M. Santiago spoke at the UN as part of the review process of the UN Peacebuilding Commission. On her right is Sophie Haspeslagh, policy analyst at Conciliation Resources; and on her left is Andrew Tomlinson, executive director of the Quaker UN Office.

“The only way to manage people’s expectations and fears is to ensure that significant publics are part of the peace process.” This is one of the central messages shared by Irene M. Santiago, Chair and CEO of the Mindanao Commission on Women during a lunchtime event at the United Nations on 26 May. The event was organized by the Mission of Norway, the Quaker UN Office, and the Conciliation Resources which is part of the International Monitoring Team. (more…)