Marcos Jr.Reconstitutes Task Force Diwalwal, Declares Centennial Year for Master weaver⁢ Haja Amina Appi

MANILA, Philippines ‍- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has taken⁤ significant steps to address illegal mining activities and honor a‍ national cultural icon. Through Executive Order (EO) 88, signed on‍ July 4, Marcos Jr. ordered the reconstitution of the National ⁢task Force Diwalwal, aimed at strengthening oversight‍ and regulation of mining operations in ⁣the Diwalwal Mineral reservation Area (DMRA) in Davao de Oro.

Strengthening Oversight in Diwalwal

the reconstituted National Task force Diwalwal ⁤will be⁤ chaired by the ⁣Secretary of the Department of ⁣Habitat and Natural Resources (DENR). This move comes in response to the observed ⁣resumption of unauthorized mining activities⁤ within the DMRA, which necessitate a more robust approach to managing illegal mining, environmental degradation, and⁣ socio-economic development in the ⁣region.

The ⁢task force’s membership includes key government officials, such as a representative ‍from the Office of ⁣the President, the Secretaries of the Department of ⁣National Defense (DND) and⁢ the Department of the Interior‍ and Local ⁢Government (DILG), and the chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).

According to EO 88, the national ⁢Task Force⁢ Diwalwal ⁤is primarily responsible for overseeing all mining activities⁢ within⁤ the DMRA.Its mandate includes creating an⁣ environment conducive ‍to lasting peace⁢ and sustainable development, overseeing the implementation of government programs for the rehabilitation and ‍development of the DMRA, and coordinating the effective and timely execution of measures to regulate and rationalize all mining activities. The task force is also directed to study and implement forward-looking⁤ measures, fostering collaboration with concerned government agencies and⁤ the private sector.

All government agencies and ⁣local government units (LGUs) within Davao de⁤ Oro are enjoined to provide ⁤full support and ⁢cooperation to ensure the effective ⁤implementation of EO 88.

Centennial year for National Living Treasure Haja Amina Appi

In a separate but equally significant ⁢declaration, President Marcos Jr. has proclaimed June 25,2025,to june 24,2026,as‍ the Centennial Year of Haja Amina‍ Appi,a revered⁣ master mat weaver from the Sama cultural community in Tawi-Tawi.

Haja amina Appi, recognized as a ⁢Manlilikha ng Bayan (National Living Treasure), is celebrated for her remarkable skill and ⁤artistry in traditional mat weaving. Her intricate designs and vibrant colors have garnered national and international acclaim, serving as a powerful symbol of⁢ the depth and⁣ dignity of Filipino indigenous art.

Proclamation 963 designates the National Commission ⁤for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to lead,‍ coordinate, and supervise yearlong commemorative activities. These events will aim to honor Haja Amina Appi’s legacy and promote⁢ a deeper public gratitude for indigenous ⁤arts and cultural traditions. the Centennial Year seeks not only to pay tribute to her life and work but also to foster pride and awareness of the intangible cultural heritage that significantly enriches the Filipino identity.

All national government agencies, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, are directed to support and participate in ⁢the observance. Local government units,⁣ non-government organizations, and the private‍ sector are also encouraged to join in celebrating this milestone.