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Friday, March 29, 2024

War-torn Lanao Norte town lights up Christmas display

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By Richel V. Umel | PPI

Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte—This once war-torn town, usual hot spot in the conflict between government soldiers and Moro rebels since the 1970s, switched on its colorful Christmas display early this month.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS OF HOPE. Residents of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte came in droves to witness the opening of the municipality’s Christmas display. Richel Umel / PPI

It gave joy and hope to its Christian and Muslim residents as hundreds came gathered at the municipal hall compound to witness the opening night after being locked down in their homes for almost two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The municipal hall façade was covered with multi-colored Christmas lights. Atop are the words “Sikad Pa Kauswagan”—short for Sustainable Integrated Kauswagan Development and Peace Agenda.
In March 2000, shortly after the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attacked the town and occupied its municipal government compound, tanks and other armored vehicles were stationed at the public plaza fronting the municipal hall.

The attack prompted former President Joseph Estrada to declare an “all-out war” against the MILF, a war that spread in many parts of Mindanao and lasted several months.

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Excited residents, showing their vaccine cards, came to the municipal government compound to see fireworks, a giant Christmas tree and globe, and colorful lights radiating around the flagpole. Voices of local singers filled the air.

“It’s nice seeing all these, considering we missed Christmas last year with the lockdowns,” said Randy Queruela, 52, a resident of Upper Tacub.

“Together we fought and survived for almost two years fighting the unseen enemy, COVID-19,” Mayor Rommel Arnado said in his message.

“This is a symbol of peace, hope and strength. We thus celebrate life together and thank God that we survived in spite of the hardship and trials. Let us pray for the eventual recovery of our economy,” the mayor added.

Arnado hoped that most of the residents will be fully vaccinated “to achieve herd immunity before the end of December.”

The following day, the municipal government distributed rice and grocery items to residents as part of its Christmas offering.

Noraisa Bansil, 50, of Baraason, said she received five kilos of rice and various grocery items. “I’m glad they treat us Muslims and Christians equally during this season,” she added

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