Over Na This Is

Introduction
Filipinos nowadays would agree that the country’s political system is controlled by some
political families. They are typically characterized as families that have established political or
economic dominance in the province and have coordinated efforts and involvement in the national
government. According to Paterno, “political dynasty is not unique in the country as it is normal
to have politician’s wife, sons, brothers or any other members of the family to run for the same
position or any other government position in a certain place where his family is dominant”. This
fact runs contrary to the fundamental law of the land. According to Article II Section 26 in the
1987 Constitution, "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and
prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law." Nue Nathi even observed that most of the
politicians would transform their electoral offices into lasting family assets because such office
would give power, attention and a chance to manipulate people.
In an article published in the Philippine Political Journal entitled “An Empirical Analysis of
Political Dynasties in the 15th Philippine Congress” it is estimated that the 15th Philippine
Congress is being comprised of 70% political families. According to the study of Lopez entitled
“A family that rules the Lopezes of Maasim, Sarangani Province 1988-2017” people tend to vote
the same family because of poverty and lack of information: patron-client relations; for money:
good personality and their good impact to the community. In other words if the father mayor has
good impact to the municipality, most likely the residents in the next election will choose any of
his family member hoping to continue what he has started.1
Dal Bo et al. argued that most people would view political dynasty has bad effects in the
country and accordingly dynastic rule worsens national and local economic development. In an
article entitled “Political Dynasties: The Review of Economic Studies” asserts that political
dynasty has negative connotation among enlightened voters who regarded political families as
1Barbosa, A (2003). “The Barangay Leadership in a Waray Community”. In Goda, B. Post-Colonial and Local Politics in Southeast
Asia. Quezon City. New Day Publishers.
perpetrators of a vicious cycle whereby power begets wealth and vice versa, ill-gotten political
power begets ill-gotten economic wealth and vice-versa.
However, this observation should not be generalized nor applied to all as there are also some
political families who were able to do their job righteously. They are those who believed that good
leaders are not made but are gradually molded into one. If a child is born with parents who are
good politicians, there is a great possibility that he will be a good leader himself, because he will
be expected to be nurtured by his parents to be a good leader. As the saying goes “a good tree will
bear a good seed”. In Mindanao, for example is the Omar Family from the Municipality of
Magsaysay. They are regarded to be different from the usual negative impression of some political
families. They are believed to have maintained peace and harmony among Muslims and Christians
in Magsaysay and to have relatively developed Magsaysay with their good leadership and
administration. It is due to this observation that some including the researchers of this study
believed that there is a need to take a second look in the discussion of political dynasty or political
families taking turns in the governance.
Statement of the Problem
This study would attempt to put into writing the administration and governance of the Omar
family in the Municipality of Magsaysay from 1960 to 2019. This study specifically seeks to
answer the following questions;
1. What are some of the narratives of how Magsaysay was established? What is the origin of
the Municipality of Magsaysay? How did it develop into what is now Magsaysay?
2. Who were the Omar Mayors of Magsaysay from 1988 up to 2019? What made them
Mayors? Were there factors that motivated or inspired them to lead Magsaysay? What were their
programs and major achievements during their administrations? What were the challenges they
encountered and how were these challenges dealt with by them?
Significance of the Study
The creation of the Municipality of Magsaysay from an old sitio Rarab is credited to
Macasamat B. Omar, the first Mayor of Magsaysay. This humble beginning of Magsaysay
continue to develop under the leadership of this founding family and continue to serve for almost
forty-four years in Magsaysay playing a vital role to the improvement and harmonious community
of a diverse population. Four decades in governance is an achievement that requires putting into
writing. The outcome of this study serves as a contribution to the already existing written account
and local history of both Magsaysay and Lanao Del Norte significantly contributing to our
National History.
Scope and Delimitation
This study is about Magsaysay and the Omar family particularly Haron, Haironi, and Azisah.
It focused mainly on the history and political development of Magsaysay from 1960 to 2019. The
study is primarily based on oral accounts from key informants considering the dearth of written
documents primarily caused by a fire of the municipal hall in 2004. The researchers however tried
its best to used available written records and documents from other sources aside from the local
government of Magsaysay in order to provide needed information to meet the objective of this
paper. Flaws and weaknesses of oral history are taken into account thus the researchers chose their
informants carefully on the basis of their authority, credibility, age and length of stay in
Magsaysay.
Review of Related Literature
Power according to Mark Warden in his book, Family Therapy Basic, simply stated is the
ability to influence others. We all know the term, have used it or have had it used on us. In a family
system, power within the family is defined according to what members have the power, how they
got it, how they maintain it, and at what costs to other members2. It is simply stated here that when
2 Worden, M. (1994). Family Therapy Basics. Brooks/Cole Publishing Co., Pacific Grove.
the father have this what we called power he usually influence his family members. In most
circumstances, family members must cooperate and consider others in order for their needs to be
met, even individual needs. One of the most cases of familial power is that how the father influence
his family member in politics and that’s when political dynasty starts. Previous studies define
political dynasties in various ways, Mark R. Thompson in his journal Asia’s Hybrid Dynasty.
Asians Affairs define political dynasty those from a family that had previously placed a member
in Congress and and he also describe it as simply as another type of direct and indirect political
power transition involving family members3. Ishibasshi and Reed, define political dynasty in their
Journal Second-generation Diet Members and Democracy in Japan: Hereditary Seat that a
political dynasty simply as a group of politicians who inherit public office from one of their family
members who occupies the office4. A stricter definition by Hess in his book Americas Political
Dynasty: From Adam to Clinton posits a political dynasty as “any that had at least four members
in the same family name, elected to public office”.5
Ronald Mendoza define political dynasty in the Philippines in his journal Political dynasties
and poverty: measurement and evidence of linkages in the Philippines, as groups of politicians
who come from the same family. The group in question is usually associated with a certain
province or city, which members of the family have led or represented for successive generations.
This can occur in two ways. One way is for members of a family to occupy a same certain
government position in every term. Once the term of the member of a political dynasty runs out, a
relative of the incumbent will run in his stead, thus ensuring political dominance. The second way
is for a number of family members to occupy government positions at the same time.6 The
occurrence of political dynasties was believed to be first recorded in the pre-Magellanic period. In
his book The Making of a Filipino, Renato Constantino pointed out that “communities at this
time were already accustomed to an early form of government and politics.” The pre-colonial
society had the datu, raja, and maharlika as rulers and stewards of tribal communities. According
to Constantino, their strong familial bonds espoused the development of the leadership and social
3 Thompson , M. R. (2012). Asia’s Hybrid Dynasty. Asians Affairs, 43(2), 204-220

4 Ishibashi, M., & Reed, S.R. Second-Generation Diet Members and Democracy in Japan: Hereditary Seats.
Asian Survey, 32 (4), 366-379

5 Hess, S. (1996). Americas Political Order in Changing Society , New Haven , CT: Yale University Press.
6Mendoza, R., et al. (2016). Political dynasties and poverty: measurement and evidence of linkages in the
Philippines. Oxford Development Studies. Volume 44, 2016- Issue 2. Pages 189-201
prestige of this ruling class. Perhaps the datu, raja, and maharlika class served as archetypal
models for the formation of political dynasties in the Philippines. During the Spanish colonial
period, the term principalia was introduced. The principalia embodied the new kind of local elite.
To Constantino, the principalia “was composed of the wealthy landowners, many of whom were
descendants of the early datus and maharlikas.”7 According to Tuazon, nearly 50 percent of the
country’s current political dynasties owe their ascendancy to post-Marcos (1986) political deals
when most elective positions were filled up by appointees of then President Corazon C. Aquino.
Michael Yusingco stated in his journal entitled How Political Dynasties undermine Local
Governance in the Philippines, Political dynasties have an adverse impact on local governance.
In some cases, dynastic families have captured the local government structure itself—an anomaly
aptly described as clan-inclusive government. The current make-up of the local government of a
group of small islands the Dinagat Islands north of Mindanao is a good example. The governor,
vice-governor, three mayors and four councilors all come from the Ecleo clan8. The prevalence of
political families in various public posts has become commonplace in the Philippine government
today. Abueva and De Guzman stated that Patronage politics also refers to distribution of favour
by higher level politician in exchange for support from recipients.9 Utang-na-loob is vey common,
so in times of election, vote for the ruling family which they see as their patron, due to the utang-
na-loob being upheld by the voter. In rural areas utang-na-loob was very common. In the 1970s,
there was only one dictatorship in the country: the Marcos dictatorship. Today, we have many
“small dictatorships” in the form of political dynasties.
1987 Constitution of the Philippines states in Article II Section 26, "The State shall
guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may
be defined by law."10 However, the phrase ‘as may be defined by law’ has sustained the prevailing
belief that enforcing the prohibition necessarily depends on anti-political dynasty legislation.
Unfortunately, the fact that at least 70 per cent of legislators in the Philippine Congress belong to
political dynasties flatly prevents the enactment of this law. That’s why several bills have been
filed in relation to the prohibition of political dynasties, and are currently pending to be approved
7
Constantino, Renato. The Making of A Filipino. Quezon City, Malaya Books. 1969
8
Yusingco, M (2015). How Political Dynasties undermine Local Governance in the Philippines. Asian Studies
Association of Australia
9 Abueva, P & De Guzman, R., 1967, Handbook of Philippine public administration. Social Research Associates
10 1987 Constitution of the Philippines

by the Congress. On January 24, 2011, Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago filed Senate Bill
2649 which prohibits political dynasties from holding or running for elected local government
positions. Three bills were also filed in the House of Representatives which are also in relation to
the prohibition of political dynasties, which are similar in content to Senate Bill 2649 these are the
House Bill 172, House Bill 837, House Bill 2911. On December 16, 2013, the House of
Representatives Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms agreed to replace the three House
bills into a single bill filed as House Bill 3587 it is called Sanggunian Kabataan Reform Law
(Republic Act 10742). This become the first law with an anti-political dynasty restriction for
elected position, as permitted by the 1987 Philippine Constitution but this only apply to those SK
electors. But recently on March 21, 2018 Anti-Dynasty Law was approved by President Duterte,
a majority of senator have approved a proposal to ban political dynasty under Committee Report
No. 367 submitted jointly by the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People's
Participation, chaired by detained Sen. Leila de Lima, and the Senate Committee on Constitutional
Amendments and Revision of Codes, chaired by Sen. Francis Pangilinan. While the 1987
Constitution prohibits political dynasties as a state policy, no enabling law has been passed by
Congress to enforce it. This law finally enables the banning of political dynasty in the Philippine.
Some of the scholars such as Asako (2010), Hutchcroft & Rocamora (2003), Alfred McCoy
(1994), Coronel, (2007), and Teehanke (2007) basically viewed political dynasties as to have
inimical effect on socio-economic outcomes and development, that is, their presence may
exacerbate poverty, inequality, fear, and backwardness due to rent-seeking behavior, self-serving
and populist policies, sub-optimal policy choices, and corruption linked to them.
On the other hand, there are also some scholars that sees political dynasties as not necessarily
detrimental to development, and that a jurisdiction may actually be better-off by having them.
Solon and Capuno (2001) in their journal contend that the decisive factor behind poor public
services provision and low-level welfare in many local areas may actually be the lack of
competition among political families -- not their presence per se. They find that incumbent dynastic
governors adopt projects and programs that are anchored towards development when faced with
challenges from other political clans, basically to differentiate themselves from rival political
families. 11 Additionally, a work by a well-known economist Mancur Olson views political dynasty
in a positive light. In Dictatorship, Democracy, and Development build up the notion of a
Roving Bandits and Stationary Bandits. The idea of Stationary Bandits the leaders with relatively
longer tenure in office or expect to be in office for a longer period will have the incentive to develop
their respective jurisdictions, as they foresee the future benefits it will reap for them. On the other
side, leaders who resemble the behavior of Roving Bandits do not have the incentive to perform
well in office or to invest for the future since they will leave the position soon enough. In this
manner, political dynasties can be likened to the Stationary Bandits. Indeed, several political
dynasties have been largely involved in the development of their areas, the most remarkable are
the Ynareses of Rizal province, Binays of Makati City, and Lee Kwan Yew and Lee Hsien Loong
(father and son; both served as prime minister) of Singapore.12 Still on a positive note, Dal Bo et
al. In their journal Political dynasties. Review of Economic Studies credit membership in a political
clan as a possible catalyst of women’s political participation in the U.S. Congress, by facilitating
the entrance of more female legislators in the political arena through kinship connections.13
“An Anarchy of Families: State and Family in the Philippines” a book edited by Alfred
McCoy, is a collection of essays and studies from different authors which study the political
families from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It also explores the pervasive influence of the
modern dynasties that have led the Philippines during the past century. This book mainly focused
with the Lopezes, Osmena, Pardo de Tavera, Durano, Montano, Dimaporo and etc, elite Filipino
families that have acted as formidable coalitions—controlling capital, dominating national politics
and local politics.14
The above mentioned various materials defined political dynasty when the same member of a
family takes turn in the running of the affairs of a locality. The Omar Family takes turn in running
11Solon, O, Fabella, R., & Capuno, J. (2001). Is local development good politics? Local government expenditures
and the re-election of Governors in the Philippines for 1992, 1995 and 1998. (UPSE Discussion Paper No. 0104)
Quezon City: School of Economics, University of the Philippines. Volume 17, 2009- Issue 3. Page 265-294
12
Olson, M. Dictatorship, Democracy, and Development. The American Political Science
ReviewVol. 87, No. 3 (Sep., 1993), pp. 567-576.
13Dal Bo, E., Dal Bo, P. & Snyder, J. (2009). Political dynasties. Review of Economic Studies76(1):115-142. Retrieved from
Review of Economic Studies
14 Alfred McCoy, “An Anarchy of Families: State and Family in the Philippines”
the affairs of Magsaysay. Their administrations however appear not to detrimental to peace and
development.
Review of Related Study
An undergraduate study entitled “Macalinog A. Bao Sultan Sa Ragayan: A Historical Account

of His Political Career” by Norjannah Bao, Najiba Ismael, Mervaliah Usman deals with the
political life of Macalinog Bao and his major achievements and contributions including his
becoming a mayor due to his father’s influenced.
Another study which includes the reason of becoming mayor due to fathers influence is the
“The Political Career Of Jabeer Maba Azis: Mayor of Municipality of Matunggao Lanao Del Norte
1998-2009” by Jennifer Canoy, Sheryl Ann Mendoza, Magenta Cielo. The study focused on the
life of Mayor Jaber Azis including on what led him to enter politics, his programs during his
administration and the problems he encountered during his reign. Accordingly they are well known
family that owns wide land in Lanao Del Sur and his father was former Mayor Azis Liwalug, the
undefeated mayor of Matungao who served from 1976 to 1995.15
Another study entitled “A Family That Rules: The Lopezes of Maasim Sarangani Provine
1988-2017” by Marlon Lopez, primarily talks about the political dynasty of Lopezes in Maasim,
Sarangani province, how the Lopezes rose into a prominent political clan in Maasim and how they
maintained their power for almost 30 years.16
Another study entitled “History of the Dimaporo’s in Lanao Del Norte and the National
Discourse of Political Dynasties” by Sittie Aisah N. Ali et. al. focuses on the Dimaporo Family
political career, their legacies and contributions to Lanao Del Norte, how the continuous
Jennifer Canoy, Sheryl Ann Mendoza, Magenta Cielo “The Political Career Of Jabeer Maba Azis: Mayor of
15
Municipality of Matunggao Lanao Del Norte 1998-2009” (Undergraduate Thesis: MSU- Iligan Institute Technology)
16 Marlon Lopez “A Family That Rules: The Lopezes of Maasim Sarangani Provine 1988-2017” (Dissertation: MSU-
Iligan Institute Technology)
succession to power by the Dimaporo family contribute in making lanao Del Norte peaceful and
prosperous.17
Another study entitled “Political Clan: The Case of the Maruhom Family in Marogong Lanao
Del Sur” by Salma Adiong Hadji Sohaili deals with the factors that brought the Maruhom into
politics, how the Maruhom maintained their power, the methods or political strategies employed
by the Maruhom to gain control of the local politics of Morogong.18
A study entitled “The History of the Political Career of Hadji Macasamat “Samat” B. Omar.
1950-1998” written by Mershell G. Dablo and Darlyn Mae B. Villacampo narrates the biography
of former mayor Macasamat Omar, as appointed Mayor in Magsaysay the founding father of
Magsaysay, his contributions in maintaining peace.
An undergraduate thesis of Lorelie C. Bacalso and Juida Q. Ruelan entitled “Benito S. Ong,
Sr.: A History of Iligan’s First Mayor” narrates the Life of the Late Mayor Benito S. Ong from
1946-1971, prime movers in making Iligan a chartered city on June 16, 1970 and the first appointed
Mayor of Iligan City.19
In order to solidify the content of this paper the researchers used related studies to strengthen
the ideas and provide vital information that are needed. The studies gathered by the researchers
gave emphases about the definitions, factors, impacts of political family’s ruling a certain
municipality.
17Sittie Aisah Alr et.al, “History of the Dimaporo’s in Lanao Del Norte and national discourse of Political Dynasties”
(Undergraduate Thesis: MSU- Iligan Institute Technology)
18
Salma Adiong Hadji Sohaili “Political Clan: The Case of the Maruhom Family in Marogong Lanao Del Sur”
(Undergraduate Thesis: MSU- Main Marawi)
19 Lorelie C. Bacalso and Juida Q. Ruelan “Benito S. Ong, Sr.: A History of Iligan’s First Mayor” (Undergraduate Thesis: MSU-
Theoretical Framework
Mancur Olson was a great economist who came up with a very useful analogy to help explain
the behaviour of many government and sees positive light in political clan, in his theory the Roving
Bandit or Stationary Bandits Theory20. Roving Bandit is a term used to explain the incentives for
governments that expect to stay in power only for a short period of time. Such governments are
unlikely to adopt policies that foster long-term economic success as they would not exist in power
to enjoy their benefits. This is in contrast to stationary bandits who expect to stay in power for a
longer time. - thus increasing the chances of them formulating policies that will bring about
economic growth and prosperity. This theory defines political families in which it has the
advantage of continuity. Political dynasties can use this continuity by promoting and enacting laws
and ordinances that are long term in nature; with only a slim chance of other candidates outside of
the clan interfering with the plans. In this study the theory is used to show that in Magsaysay the
Omar family was able to practice stationary bandits to provide socio-economic development to
stay in power.
Research Methodology/Data Gathering
In gathering data, combined methods of key informants inquiry (KII) and archival were
employed. Data are presented in the descriptive and narrative style. Using historical method, this
study resorted to investigation, recording, interpreting, analyzing and evaluation of facts to be
drawn largely from primary sources such as documents from the municipality and interviews of
20Solon, O, Fabella, R., & Capuno, J. (2001). Is local development good politics? Local government expenditures
and the re-election of Governors in the Philippines for 1992, 1995 and 1998. (UPSE Discussion Paper No. 0104)
Quezon City: School of Economics, University of the Philippines. Volume 17, 2009- Issue 3. Page 265-294
the constituents of Magsaysay including the former Mayor Haron Omar, Haironi Omar and the
present Mayor Azisah Saranggani Omar.
The researchers also looked into available primary and secondary sources of information such
as books, municipal records and unpublished materials gathered from the Magsaysay Municipal
Hall and other libraries. Any other sources from online such as articles, essays, picture and other
documents were also utilized.
The researchers conducted interviews to the constituents, former mayors and present mayor
of the said municipality. Specifically thirty (30) residents, five (5) LGU employees and ten (10)
Barangay Captains. The researchers asked permission of the purposely chosen constituents, basing
on the number of years of their residency in Magsaysay and their authority Magsaysay history and
governance. The researchers sought the consent of the respondents to participate in the study. The
researchers used cellphones to record conversation with the respondents with their consent and
after the interview the data were validated through triangulation method in which the recorded data
were transcribed, responses were translated, verified, and validated.
Chapter II
2.1 Locale
Figure 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magsaysay_Lanao_Del_Norte
Magsaysay is one of the municipalities in the Province of Lanao Del Norte. It is located in the
backwoods of the province with a distance of approximately 18 kilometers away from the
Municipality of Tubod, the very seat of provincial and administrative office of Lanao Del Norte
and where the National Highway is located
It has a total land area of 151.83 kilometer square which is 24,000 hectares bounded on the
north by Titunod River which is the geographical boundary between Kolambugan and Magsaysay
and Bulod River serves as the geographical boundary between the Municipality of Tubod on the
southwest. And on the eastern part is bounded by the Municipality of Madamba, Province of Lanao
Del Sur. Magsaysay has 24 Barangays the Bago-Ingud which is basically the poblacion,
Tambacon. Baguiguicon, Tipaan, Olango, Lemoncret, Somiorang, Durianon, Tombador, Daan
Campo, Ilihan, Lower Caningag, Lumbac, Mapantao, Tawinian, Panggao, Malaabaogan, Lubo,
Pilingkingan, Lawigadatu, Talambo, Papandayan, and Babasalon. It has three rivers the Titunod
River, Bulod River, and Tawinian River.21
At present, in going to Magsaysay, the easiest way of transportation is by riding “payong-

payong” a type of new of tricycle which can accommodate about 2 to 4 number of persons and the
ride would only take 30 to 50 minutes since the road was already cemented on 2015. It can also be
reached through public utility jeepneys which there are only five trips being scheduled a day. The
ride would take only half an hour or so from the Municipality of Tubod.
Magsaysay is predominantly of natural plateaus rolling hilly and the climate is milder
compared to coastline towns. Rainfall occurs throughout the year, although most of the rainy
season falls in the last quarter of the year.
2.2. Historical Background
On July 4, 1959, pursuant to Republic Act. No.22822 divided Lanao into two provinces: Lanao
Del Norte and Lanao Del Sur. Because at first it was called the Province of Lanao when it was not
divided yet. The present Lanao Del Norte was the northern part of the undivided lanao while Lanao
Del Sur was the southern portion. And Iligan City was the first Capital of Lanao Del Norte. But
on June 24, 1982 the Seat of the Provincial Government was transferred to the Municipality of
Tubod, through Batas Pambansa 181.23
Magsaysay is a young municipality. It was created into a municipal district on March 22, 1960
by virtue of Executive Order No. 38924 and was declared a municipality only on December 10,
21
Socio-Economic Profiles by the Provincial Planning and Development Office of the Municipality of Magsaysay, Lanao Del
Norte. 2004, P.6
22 http://laws.chanrobles.com/republicacts/22_republicacts.php?id=2231. Retrieved February 6, 2019
23
Norte. 2004, P.6
24 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1960/03/22/executive-order-no-389-s-1960/ Retrieved February 6, 2019

1965 by virtue of Executive Order No. 21925. Magsaysay was named as such in honor of the late
President Ramon Magsaysay.26
Magsaysay has an approximate population of 19,019 in the 2015 census taken from the
National Statistic Office27. There are two major ethnic groups in the place, the Meranaw and the
the Visayan speaking. Furthermore, the Cebuano speaking population constitutes the majority of
the area which accounts for 54.19% of the total municipal population. The meranaw-speaking
group is another majority accounting for 41.62% of the total population. Other dialects spoken in
the area were: Bagobo, Boholanos, Ilonggo, Hiligaynon and Subanen, and among others.28
Magsaysay was once an obscure land named by the maranao ancestor as Rarab, it was named
Rarab because according to the natives in Magsaysay, the place was caught by a fire done mostly
by the traders who happened to take rest, and accordingly it was known to be a meeting place of
moneyed traders.29
Magsaysay was known to be of the well-known outlaw Kalaong, according to Maulana

Burong Kalaong ruled Magsaysay but when he died, some families came to Magsaysay and settled
in the area under the rule of Sheik Omar the father of Macasamat Omar. There are some notable
native families that had been living there; Burong, Oyog, Lumantas, and the Omar.30 Before 1950s
there are only small settlement in Rarab later on Magsaysay when it was still a sitio of Tangkal
and Magsaysay that time was still a jungle that’s why on 1951 when Macasamat Omar ran for
councilor in Lala and during his campaign he promised to the public, Omar let settle and acquire
25 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1965/12/10/executive-order-no-219-s-1965/ Retrieved February 6, 2019
26http://lawlibrary.chanrobles.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=67615:batas-pambansa-bilang-
181&catid=90&Itemid=740 Retrieved February 6, 2019
27Census of Population (2015). "Region X (Northern Mindanao)". Total Population by Province, City, Municipality
and Barangay. PSA. Retrieved February 6, 2019
28
Norte. 2004, P. 9
29 Ibid, P.10
30
Norte. 2004, P. 9
a piece of land of those tenant-farmers in Lala and other neighboring Municipality if they are
interested and right after he won as councilor in Lala he then fulfilled his promise.31
During the American Period, the settlers in Mindanao who failed to register their lands to own
a title were turned to public lands under the Torren System.32 Accordingly, the Omar Clan
occupied majority of the lands in Magsaysay since 1600 based on the genealogy.33 When President
Ramon Magsaysay implemented the land reform program 195434, Macasamat Omar took this
opportunity and made his first step. Macasamat Omar, Filipe Lumantas and Florencio Opay who
were a councilor of Lala that time announced to the public that they will help to acquire a piece of
land to those tenant-farmers in Lala and neighboring places such as Misamis Occidental if they
are interested.
On the early part of 1954, a group of men led by Hajji Macasamat Omar, Filipe Lumantas Sr,
Florencio Opay, and some other residents and tenant farmers from Lala went to explore
Magsaysay. According to Mr. Florencio Opay, Magsaysay before was a “lasang” meaning a land
of jungle, and it was inaccessible by any means of transportation so the group started from Lala on
foot to Magsaysay, so this was the first exploration in Magsaysay. After the exploration, the team
went home to Lala with the hope to acquire land and make a settlement.35 On August to November
1954 was the second exploration in Magsaysay and this time more people than the first had come
and settle in the place and again it was led by Hajji Macasamat Omar together with his colleague
Felipe Lumantas and Florencio Opay. And this time it was not only a tenant farmer from lala but
some of the migrants were from Misamis Occidental. On the third of wave of migration the
population of settlers increased and these migrants were able to pass the hardships and challenges
and were able to acquire land and settle there. However, obtaining land was not easy. The settlers
must meet certain qualifications such as (1) Settlers must be at least 15 years old. (2) Migrants can
only own maximum of six hectares, and (3) settlers must be registered to the MASA. Thus, after
the population increased the Magsaysay’s Settlers Association (MASA) gave its birth. The
migrants elected the leader of the said organization, Felipe Lumantas as the President, Florencio
31 An interview with Florencio Opay in Baroy, Lanao Del Norte. November 11, 2018
32 Land registration act no. 496
33 Salsila of Omar Clan
34 Agoncillo, Teodoro A. (1990). History of the Filipino People. Garotech Publishing
35 Ibid. Corroborated by Mr. Florencio Opay. Interviewed November 11 2018
Opay as the Vice President and Fausto Gumisong Jr. as Secretary, Godvito Lumantas as Treasurer,
Brigido Vina as the Auditr, Eriberto Lumantas as Sgt. And Arms. MASA organization has its
terms and conditions by that in order to acquire land the migrants must agree to these following;
(1) His/Her family must migrate to the Magsaysay (2) the member must have their own serial
number that correspond to the number of settler registered in the settler registry book of record,
(3) a member should ask permission to the chairman if there is an outgoing activities. Even if
Magsaysay is both inhabited by Meranaws and Christian it is peaceful and harmonious.
The researcher interviewed some of the migrants coming from Misamis Occidental, and one
of them was Nelly Tajeros (2018) according to her on 1957 with her family they migrated to
Magsaysay from Misamis Occidental, she stated that they went to Magsaysay when they heard
that there is a distribution of land of whom is willing to live there, and she received four hectares.
Another migrants from Misamis Occidental, Pausta Sumangang(2018) said that on 1955 they
migrated to Magsaysay to acquire the land distribution by Macasamat Omar. According to some
of the informants if they don’t bring their family with them in Magsaysay and live there they will
not acquire lands so in order for them to acquire land some of them were force to bring their family
and live there. In the succeeding days, as the population grew the group choose the following as
their interim leaders, Felipe Lumantas Sr. as their chairman, Florencio Opay as vice-chairman,
Eriberto Lumantas as the second vice-chairman, and Macasamat Omar as honorary chairman. In
the following days, people were busy subdividing trails estimated around four to six hectares each,
setting Karatola which bore their respective names.36
When Magsaysay has its population were continuously increasing, it developed its own
livelihood program such that in Agriculture and deserved to be a municipality for it had the
necessary requirement, Macasamat Omar along with his colleagues Opay, Lumantas, Supilanas
and the majority of settlers they decided to pass a petition asking for the seaparation of Magsaysay
from the Municipality of Tangkal under the Presidency of Ramon Magsaysay which was later
named after him. Through the effort of the leaders and the collective efforts of the settlers,
Magsaysay was then separated from the Municipality of Tangkal and was created into a Municipal
36Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 3. Corroborated by
Pausta Sumagang and Nelly Tajeros. Interviewed November 14 2018
District on March 22, 1960 by virtue of Executive Order No. 38937. And on December 10, 1965
Magsaysay was finally included into the Provincial Districts and thus became a regular
municipality by virtue of Executive Order No, 21938. Just when Magsaysay became a municipality
majority of the people in Magsaysay wanted Macasamat Omar to be their leader and by 1960 he
became the first appointed mayor in Magsaysay. But it was only a short period of time because on
May 1960 he was then succeeded by his brother, Koplan Omar and after three years Koplan Omar
was then succeeded by Gimba Dimakuta.
Dimakuta’s administration ignited the conflict between the Meranaws and Christians in
Magsaysay. According to informant Rebisalam Into 39Gimba was from Lanao Del Sur. And Before
the administration of Gimba, meranaws and christians lived peacefully. Since Dimakuta was from
Lanao del Sur he was not familiar in the place and considering that Magsaysay has more Christians
than Meranaws he was not able to continue the legacy of the previous leader which is to be fair
and just. On 1965 Gimba happened to get involved in a crime of murder in Iligan City that’s why
he fled to Lanao Del Sur and left Magsaysay40, he was then succeeded by his vice mayor Madid
Untora however the conflict between Maranaos and Christian was still uncontrollable, chaos and
criminalities were anywhere found. Days, weeks, months, and even years were chained with
killings and ambushes.41
Racid Dimaporo an outsider coming from Lanao Del Sur became elected as mayor in
Magsaysay on the next local election on 1968 but the situation or the atmosphere of the town did
not change in fact it become worst. Killings of innocent person was common because it was during
this time that the conflict of the ILAGAs and BARAKUDAs started. Accordingly, it was the time
of Rasid that his people took some of the lands of the residents in Magsaysay illegally According
to the informant Sumagang42
”si Rashid ug Guimbi sigeg ginubot….akong papa atu kay nidugo and
dalunggan kay gilaparo sa isa ka tawo2x ni racid nabungol akong papa
tiguwang na baya tu. Pero kay wala man sad mi na iskwatan ug yuta kay ang
37 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1960/03/22/executive-order-no-389-s-1960/. Retrieved March 1, 2019

38 http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1965/12/10/executive-order-no-219-s-1965/. Retrieved March 1, 2019
39 An interview with Rebisalam Into in her residence in Magsaysay Lanao Del Norte. November 1, 2018
40 Ramon Rebojo Opay
41 Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 8
42 An interview with Pausta Sumagang in her residence at Magsaysay Lanao Del Norte. November 20, 2018
amua bakilid, akong mga ig agaw dadtu akong mga pag humangkon may
nangakwaan dayun nabalik rasad sa ilaa pagkabalik ni Macasamat”
(Rashid and Guimba continued messing, my father became deaf after he was
slapped by one of the men of Rashid however our land was not taken because it
was a slope area, but the land of my relatives were taken and was given back
during Macasamat Omar returned to his position).
She was one of the witnesses during the time of Guimba and Rashid. So why was it that an outsider
from Lanao Del Sur won in Magsaysay? Because accordingly he was supported by his relative the
Dimaporo in Lanao Del Norte. But during the Local election of 1971 while that conflict between
the known ILAGAs and BARAKUDAs was known everywhere, Racid Dimaporo was defeated
by his opponent candidate for mayor, Florencio “Onsot” Lumantas. The transition of leadership
from Racid to Lumantas didn’t stop the chaos in Magsaysay. After the proclamation of Martial
Law in August 1972 according to Maulana Burong the conflict between Christians ILAGAs and
Meranaw BARAKUDAs in the area became worst. And because of this most of the Christians
evacuated to the other places and only a single Meranaw could be found in Magsaysay and he was
Sultan Maulana Buanding. On 1975 Col. Mangondatu was assigned as mayor in Magsaysay and
during this period there is no civilians could be seen in Magsaysay some of the residents went back
to their provinces, some went to Marawe and other parts in Lanao Del Norte such as Tangkal, Lala
and Tubod. 43
Finally, on 1976 the conflict in Magsaysay was in control, the people requested Hajji
Macasamat omar in Marawe City to return and be their Mayor and Macasamat accepted the request
of the people. Because of him both Christians and Muslims alike went back to Magsaysay and let-
settle again in their respective farm lots. It was in this year, the Ministry of Agrarian Reform
(MAR), today Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) began extending support farmer-settlers
after the proclamation of Magsaysay as one of the resettlement areas all out of the country. 44
Through the collective efforts of Macasamat Omar, Felipe Lumantas and Florencio Opay
43Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 8. Corroborated by
Pausta Sumagng. Interviewed November 20 2018
44 Ibid. P.8
Magsaysay became a municipality and accordingly they are considered as the “Founding Fathers”
of Magsaysay.
Through the hardworks of the four Omar mayors Magsaysay became a peaceful and stable
community although there are some minor incidents occurred but still being settled immediately
by the Omars. And In spite of the fact that Magsaysay is located in the interior part of Lanao Del
Norte it is undeniable that Magsaysay is one of the developing and progressing Municipality in
Lanao Del Norte.
CHAPTER III
3.1 The Omar Family
3.1.2 Family Background
Traditional Meranaw family is usually extended, a type of joint family that often includes
multiple generations in the family.45 There are many advantages in this type of kinship, including
stability, orderliness, and moral and psychological support. In Meranaw practices the elderly earns
high respect for the reason of having more experience in life and their hierarchic position with in
the family.
Family Tree or Salsila in Meranaw is one of the way to trace the genealogy of Meranaw family
particularly the nobility. It contains heroic deeds, significant events, and greatest achievements of
the Meranaw family. In the present, salsila is recited in the homes of the elite for the instructions
of the datus and sultan’s children.46 Every family in the Meranaw society must able to trace back
their ancestry through salsila.
The Omar family ancestry can be traces from the four datus Datus of Munai namely: Obinay,
Balua, Riona and Labia. These datus were accordingly living in the lanao district. Macasamat was
twelfth generation from Labia, since Macasamat was born on 1930.
45Andersen, Margaret L and Taylor, Howard Francis (2007). The extended family may live together for many reasons,
such as to help raise children, support for an ill relative, or help with financial problems. Sociology: Understanding a
diverse society. p. 396 ISBN 0-495-00742-0
46 Tuban, R. (2012) The Salsila. The Mindanao Forum , Vol. XXV, No.2
Figure 2. Omar Family Tree
Sheik Omar married twice and in his first marriage he had four sons namely, Dirawatun,
Umali, Coplan and Macaitom. In his second marriage, his wife Sepan na Bai bore one child in the
person of Hadji Macasamat B. Omar. Macasamat Omar the only child of Sheik Omar to Sepan na
Bai was married to Modiana Dereposon and was blessed with nine children namely, Acmad,
Wahrab, Evelita, Sofia, Miriam, Aisah, Haron, Zoraida, Raula and Haironi.
One way to understand how the Municipality of Magsaysay become separated in Tangcal and
how it become a peaceful and a developing municipality after chaos is to know the pioneering
leaders of Magsaysay. There are several leaders such as Opay, Lumantas and Omar but it was
Macasamat Omar who played a vital role on developing and maintaining peace and order in
Magsaysay. According to Alex Montejo, Magsaysay on 1960 to 1975 was in a state of chaos and
conflicts between the Christians and the Muslims but when the leadership of Macasamat came to
time the peace and order was able to obtain.
In present day Magsaysay Municipality, according to Vice Mayor Erediano the Muslim
Meranaw lives harmoniously with its Christians brothers and sisters. Peaceful coexistence is rooted
in common regard for contrast in culture and religious convictions.
The majority of the residents in Magsaysay have trust in the Omar Family because of their
good characteristic and personalities that resulted to being elected by the people for almost 40
years in Magsaysay. One of the informants said that;
“Kanang Omar dili gyud na sila bias, kay kung sala sa Muslim sala gyud na nila mao pud
sa mga Christian. Wala jud na silay dapigan”.
(The Omars are not bias, they don’t take sides between Christians and Muslim)
There is an enduring peace that they have also implemented and promoted, down the line
frame from Macasamat Omar, Haron D. Omar and to the couple mayor Haironi Omar and Azisah
Omar.
The negative connotation attached to the term “political dynasty” cannot be seen in the case
of the Omar Family. Each of the Omar mayors in Magsaysay political history has worked for the
betterment of the said Municipality. Under their leadership, Municipality of Magsaysay enjoys the
peaceful environment and economic growth, This family left a valuable legacy of lasting peace
and order in the said Municipality. As one of the informant Nila Oyog that ----
“basta ako di gyud mi mubalag nilag butar kay kabalo mi unsa sila ka maayu nga
pamilyaha”
(for me I will be always in their side no matter what, because I know how good their
family are)
In order to know more about the Omar lineage, we shall begin to talk about former Mayor
Macasamat Omar who founded the Omar Family in Magsaysay.
3.1.2 Late Ex. Mayor Hajji Macasamat Omar (1976-1985) (1988-1998)
Figure 3. A Photo of Hajji Macasamat Omar taken by Jasmin Camia on 2013.
Life of Former Mayor Macasamat Omar
The patriarch of the Omar Family of Magsaysay is Hajji Macasamat Omar. He became the
first appointed mayor in Magsaysay on 1960.
He was the only son of Sheik Omar and Sepan na Bai. He was born on January 10, 1930 in
Lumbac, Magsaysay Lanao Del Norte. As a child he was playful, energetic, and competitive in
whatever he does, accordingly their family came from a royal family, who owned lands, several
properties, and most of all respected in the society and because of this as a son of a devoted farmer,
a businessman, and a veteran officials, Macasamat grew up with discipline and love from his
parents.47
On 1937, he studied in primary years in Kalilangan Elementary School which is a baranggay

of Tubod Municipality but this school only offered grade 1 to 4 that’s why on 1941, he transferred
to Malingao Elementary School to pursue his studies there. And accordingly he showed a vigor
and interest in the class although there was time that he was always absent from his class due to
Meranaws mentality and fear at that time of their children will be kidnapped by the American
soldiers. They also believed that by going to school they would eventually be adopting the cultures
of the Americans and grew up forgetting their own. This fear seems to be real in the words of T.S
George;
Education became an instrument of America’s colonial policy, a device to dilute the local
people’s nationalism. Pershing agreed that Islam had been inimical for the violent opposition
to the American rule so that there is no question of allowing the propagation of
Mohammedanism through the prostitution of the public schools. Not surprisingly, Muslims
shunned American educators as they had shunned Spanish Christians education; they had
sent their servants instead of their children in the school.48
Although Macasamat Omar was very interested on going to school it did not last long for he
finally stopped studying and never to returned to school because of the disapproval coming from
his parents and instead of schooling he went on farming together with his father until he joined
politics. At the age of 17 he married the 13 years old Modiana Dereposon on 1947 at Malingao
Lanao Del Norte for he was promised by his parents to the family of Modiana Deriposon. During
this time “Buya” parents pre-arranged marriage of their children, was very rampant. After their
marriage, Macasamat together with his wife settle in Magsaysay to start their own family but due
to inaccessibility the couple decided to transfer in Lala. They have 10 children namely, Acmad,
Wahab, Evelita, Sofia, Miriam, Aisah, Haron, Soraida, Raula, and Haironi. According to his son
Haron Omar (2018) his father gave importance on education and provided his children the best
education he could afford then. Macasamat sent his children to school not on his inadequate wage
47 Meshebell G. Dablo and Darlyn Mae B. Villacampo “Hajji Macasamat Omar” From 1950 to 1998” Undergraduate Thesis: MSU-
48 T.S George. Revolts in Mindanao. The Rise of Islam in Philippine Politics. (Malaysia: Oxford University)
as town mayor but relying more on the income of his family’s business and lands because
Macasamat was not just a great leader but also a successful farmer and businessman.49According
to his wife Modiana Deriposon
“nindut kaysha nga pagkatawo kay di sya mamilig tawo, that’s why both muslim and
christian kay ganahan niya. Although sauna kay diko ganahan nga mag mayor sya sa
magsaysay kay ako baya syang gipogus gyud nga mamalhin mis kalilangan kay naa didtu ang
amung business, pero kay ang mga tawo namay mo request sa iya nga mubalik sya sa pagka
mayor wala man koy mahimu ana haha”50
“he was a good person, that’s why both muslim and Christians liked him. Although at
first I didn’t support him to became a mayor in fact I forced him to transfer in Kalilangan due
to the fact that our business situated there, but the people requested for him to become a mayor
and it leave me no choice”
Macasamat has been recognized by the people in Magsaysay as a great founding father of their
place not because he was the one who help the people to acquire land in Magsaysay but because
he was also a great peace maker and mediator in Magsaysay between the Christians and Meranaws.
Because of his leadership Magsaysay is relatively in a state of peaceful and stable.51
POLITICAL CAREER
The political career of Macasamat Omar started when he won as the councilor of Lala on
1951. He mediated the conflict between the Christians and Meranaws in the municipality. After
that he also became councilor in Tubod Lanao del Norte for four years. On 1959 he went back to
Magsaysay which was at that time a sitio of Tangkal Municipality. He was reunited with his
colleague in which resulted to the decision of separating Magsaysay from Tangkal because
according to them Magsaysay deserve to be a municipality for it possesses the necessary
requirement such as, continuously growing population and developing economy and
infrastructure.
49 Meshebell G. Dablo and Darlyn Mae B. Villacampo “Hajji Macasamat Omar” From 1950 to 1998” Undergraduate Thesis:
MSU- Iligan Institute Technology). Corroborated by Haron Omar. Interviewed November 27 2018
50 An interviewed with Modiana Deriposon in her Residence in Palao, Iligan City. Interviewed November 29 2018
51 An interviewed with Miranda in his Residence in Poblacion, Magsaysay. Interviewed November 6, 2018
On the early part of 1959 Macasamat Omar along with Felipe Lumantas and Florencio Opay
pass a petition to President Ramon Magsaysay asking for the granting of the separation of
Magsaysay from the municipality of Tangkal to which they successfully separate it from its mother
municipality. After the separation of Magsasay from Tangkal, the people requested Macasamat
Omar to be their leader and was approve by President Ramon Magsaysay. According to Florencio
Opay;
“Gusto jud namo nga sya among leader kay maayo gyud sya na pagkatao aside ana makita
jud namo iyaang kakayahan na mahimong amahan sa magsaysay sa mga katawhan pud na iyaang
gi sakopan” 52
(We really wanted him as a leader because we know how good he was. You can see his
potential that he will become great father in Magsaysay)
Macasamat spend most of his time, efforts, and his life to public service through serving
people and developing Magsaysay to the point that his relation to his family was somehow
affected. That’s why accordingly through the request of his wife he decided to gave up his position
as mayor and give it to his brother Koplan on 1960. And by 1960 Macasamat together with his
family transferred and settle in Kalilangan for their own good, he made his self busy in their
business. Although he was in Kalilangan he never forget to visit Magsaysay. He played a vital role
in mediating the conflict between the Meranaws and Christians in Magsaysay particularly when
the conflict between Baracudas and Ilaga had worsen. There was large scale evacuation of both
Meranaws and Christians, continuous killings and ambushes were beyond control, and made
Magsaysay as one of the top list where massacres committed by Ilagas and Baracudas in Mindanao
on 1971.
The declaration of Martial Law on September 21, 1972 worsened the conflict between the
Meranaw and Christian in Magsaysay. Macasamat and his family moved to Marawi because the
conflict was beyond control already. On 1976 the situation was in state of order Macasamat was
invited and appointed by President Marcos as Mayor upon the request of the majority of the
residents in Magsaysay. He was happily greeted by his people and when some of the people heard
that Macasamat Omar became the appointed Mayor they went back to Magsaysay. On 1980,
52 An Interview with Mr. Florencio Opay in his residence in Baroy Lanao Del Norte
Macasamat Omar ran for mayor and no one dared to challenge him.53 Most of the informants
would claim that because of his being a fair and just, he was loved by his people and was able to
gain back the support and respect of his people. His exceptional leadership enable him to maintain
peace and order.
But on 1986, as a result of the snap election and the EDSA Revolution he was replaced by
Roberto Lumantas, who was appointed by Cory Aquino as an Officer in charge (OIC) Mayor until
1988. And on 1988 election, Macasamat again decided to run for the same position and Roberto
Lumantas was defeated by a landslide victory, and then in his 3 terms he become the undefeated
mayor in Magsaysay until 1998.54
Achievements and Legacy
Macasamat Omar was one of the pioneering leader of Magsaysay and it is undeniable that
through his hardwork and effort Magsaysay is created. It was indeed his major achievement and
greatest contribution to Magsaysay. In fact, without Macasamat Omar, Magsaysay will not
developed into what is now Magsaysay. As one of the informant stated Allen Calunsag;
“Maayu gyud na si Macasamat kay tungod nia nahimung munisipyo ning rarab kong
wala kalasangan pa guro gihapon ni gang”
“Macasamat was really good, because of him Magsaysay became a municipality and I
think without him there is no Magsaysay that is existed today”
Apart from being one of the founding father of Magsaysay, he contributed several projects
that help a lot to the betterment of the said municipality that up until now the people are still
benefits from it.
53
Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 8. Corroborated by
Modiana Deriposom Omar. Interviewed November 29 2018
54
Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 10. Corroborated by
Mr. Dara. Interviewed November 2, 2018
Under his administration he was able to request the assistance of the regional consultative
commission for the survey and subdivision of 19, 500 hectares. This land was alloted to the
landless which help those tenant-farmers in Magsaysay to own a piece of land.
Macasamat did not only focus in the economic aspect but also in the social well being of the
people by supporting the Ministry of Education and Cultural Task force of five government trust
namely: Health, Beautification, Sanitation, Alay-Tanim, Food Production and Nutrition. On 1979
he also facilitated the installation of LANECO Electric Lightning to provide the residents of
Magsaysay the use of electric power. He also constructed the level 1 Water Work System with
Electric Pump in Barangay Poblacion. Moreover, Macasamat was able to build a Community
Training Center and Rural Health Centers. It was also during his time that the water system in
Lumbac was constructed and the Magsasay Barangay High school was converted to Magsaysay
National High school. It was also during his time that Magsaysay Elementary School was
constructed in 1978.
Figure 4. Community Training Center

Figure 5. The Rural Health Center
Aside from water projects, Macasamat has also constructed school buildings, bridges and
Municipal Centers. In 1980-1986, Magsaysay was developed. Some infrastructures were
constructed such as Bagong Lipunan School buildings, public market and the new municipal
building.
Figure 6. Public Market

Figure 7. Municipal Gymnasium
Figure 8. Municipal Auditorium

Figure 9. Municipal Hall
The provincial road from Tubod to Magsaysay was repaired and all barangay roads were all
attended. It was also during his time that the Baguiguicon bridge was constructed, Gymnasium
and Auditorium is also built.
In his administration Macasamat priorities was to maintain peace and order. Macasamat
himself became the mediator every time there were conflicts between the Christians and among
Meranaw such as Rido clan feud. As one of the informant Theresa Perez has said;
“Kana si Macasamat wa na syay dapigan kong sala sa muslim sala gyud na nila ug kung sala sad sa
christians sala sad na nila”
(Macasamat was just and fair in dealing problems between the two tribes. When the Meranaw
committed a sin then they will face the consequences same as the Christians.)
On 1995, he was awarded as one of the most outstanding Mayor of the Philippines during the
convention of the Mayors League of the Philippines in Manila.55 Indeed this achievements would
also justify that Macasamat was truly a great man in Magsaysay, he served his people with all his
heart. In his three terms 1988-1995, Hajji Macasamat was never defeated in his mayoral race and
always won by a landslide over his rival. Hence, he was being chosen by his people because they
know how great he is and how truly he loves his people and to his wife and children, he was also
a loving husband and a father. His term ended on 1998 and his son Haron D. Omar succeeded him.
He was chosen by his father because ever since Haron was young he has shown a potential of
becoming a great leader that is why he was groomed and trained by his father.
On August 27, 2014, Hajji Macasamat Omar passed away due to old age. He was estimated
to be 84. He died at Sanitarium Hospital. His remains were brought back to his hometown,
Magsaysay. As one of the informants said that they lost a “great father”.
3.2.2 Mayor Haron Deriposon Omar (1998-2007)
55 Letter from the President of Mayor’s League of the Philippines on December 26, 1989.
Figure 10. A Photo of Haron D. Omar taken in his residence at 542 Pala-o, Iligan
Haron Deriposon Omar is the seventh son of Macasamat Omar and Modiana Deriposon. He
was born in Tubod, Lanao Del Norte on August 18, 1966. He was described as “well-educated and
well-raised” but unlike his father he was a bit strict and straightforward in his thoughts.
Mayor Haron Omar was influenced by his father, the one who taught him about being a good
leader. He was trained by his father to the world of business and politics. According to him in the
interview:
“akong papa nay gatudlo nako sa world of politics ug sa business kay sa wala paman na mayor akong papa sa
Magsaysay naa nami business naa man mi mga kayutaan sa Magsaysay ug sa kalilangan”. 56
(It was my father who taught me about the world of politics and business because when he was not yet a mayor
in Magsaysay we have a business, we owned a land in Magsaysay and in Kalilangan)
As narrated by his mother Modiana Omar:
“Skanyan e kinowa e ama yan ka lagiduba on kisarig, ago aya myag request na so mga katawhan man”
(His father chooses him because he can trust him, and majority in Magsaysay request him to run)
Former Mayor Haron enrolled his early childhood in Magsaysay Elementary School and he
spends his High School years in Mercy Junior College and when he graduated in high school he
enrolled at the University of San Jose Recollects in Cebu City where took up Civil Engineering.
56 An interviewed with Haron D. Omar in his Residence in Palao, Iligan City. Interviewed November 28 2018
Former Mayor Haron stated that his father gave importance and value to education most that is
why Mayor Macasamat Omar sends them to a university that will nurture them and supported them
financially, emotionally and spiritually. During his teenage years he always attend events whether
it is a family gathering or school activities, he was an active college student. According to his
sister Zorraida:
“Haron was also a gentleman and faithful. His love for family was grounded with a strong faith and respect to
his wife”
She continued saying:

“There was once an event that Mayor Haron needs to attend where he needed a partner. I contacted my friend
Neneth and ask if she can company my brother, Neneth accepted the request. After the event, Haron and Neneth
developed feelings and eventually the two fell in love and became a couple during their college years. After the
long years in college Haron Omar married Neneth. The two gave birth to seven loving children, namely Harold,
Rj, Alliah, Hamza, Hassana Potri, and Hanifa.”57
Raising a family is also an indication of a true good leader.

The political career of Mayor Haron Omar did not directly start from being mayor but as a
councilor, it was his breakthrough to reach his dream of becoming a mayor. Furthermore, he run
for mayor because he was fully supported by his family especially his father late Mayor Macasamat
Omar who groomed him, inspired and molded him to become a good leader and he also wanted to
follow the footsteps of his father for being a good leader of his people and aside from that the
people in Magsaysay wants him and requested him to be their next leader for they see the late
Mayor Macasamat Omar in appearance of Mayor Haron and also he wanted to become a mayor
because he wanted to continue the legacy of his father which is to maintain the peace and order of
the Municipality and continue the development in terms of economic and social aspects of
Magsaysay.
On 1998 election, Haron D. Omar won as the Municipal Mayor of Magsaysay over his
opponent Atty. Osop Omar which happens to be his first degree cousin. Accordingly, during the
election, the ballot boxes were held and cordoned by the supporters of Atty. Osop Omar in the
Municipal auditorium. If not because of the Military personnel by the order of the assigned election
officer who forcibly opened the Municipal auditorium the ballot boxes that were held will not be
embargo to the supporters of Atty. Osop who illegally took the ballot boxes and by the efforts of
57 An interviewed with Zorraida Omar in her Residence in Palao, Iligan City. Interviewed November 29 2018
the election officer it was taken back from the supporters of the opposition side. However, the
ballot boxes that were held by the supporter of Atty. Osop Omar could not be retrieved but still
the ballots could not be counted because they destroyed with indelible. Only those that were
brought to the PNP Provincial command were canvassed and counted. Fortunately, Haron Omar
won by a landslide against Atty. Osop Omar. The 1998 election is the start of Mayor Haron Omar’s
career being mayor and on 2001 election; he was again challenged by his cousin Atty. Osop Omar
but Haron D. Omar won by landslide. Again on 2004 he was again challenged by his cousin and
still won by landslide vote.58 The undying support of the people in Magsaysay to Mayor Haron
Omar shows that Haron Omar was indeed a good leader just like his father.
(INFORMANT)
Haron D. Omar rendered service to his people for three (3) terms. He developed projects and
initiated programs that are beneficial to the municipality and to his constituents.
On 2004, one of former Mayor Haron’s projects is Resolution no. 87, S. 2004 that approves
Res. No. 1, S. 2004 of the Municipal development council adopting the annual investment plan for
CY 2004 allocating budget for health, environmental management, social, economic and the
upgrading of the infrastructure.59 Below is the breakdown of the projects under the mentioned
resolution including its budget:
HEALTH
Medical Supplies Php 100, 000.00
Nutrition Program Php 10, 000.00
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Clean and Green Php 10, 000.00
Program
SOCIAL
Gender Development Php 10, 000.00
Social Programs Php 80, 000.00
Non – Formal Education Php 30, 000.00
Peace and Order Council Php 252, 000.00
Communication Services Php 20, 8000.00
ECONOMIC
Light and Power Php 80, 000.00
58 Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 11
59 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sangguniang Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution No. 87,
S. 2004.
Agricultural Services Php 100, 000.00
KALAHI Program Php 40, 000.00
INFRASTRUCTURE
Road Concreting Php 125, 000.00
Repair of Municipal Php 100, 000.00
Auditorium
Repair of SB Session Php 10, 000.00
Hall
Maintenance of Php 360, 000.00
Municipal Streets
Maintenance of other Php 600, 000.00
structure
Repair of Lumbac Health Php 20, 000.00
Center
Table1. Projects
Figure 12. Barangay Health Center of Lumbac
Figure 13. Road Concreting

Figure 14. Electrification
Figure 15. Smart Telecommunication

Figure 16. TM Telecommunication
The mentioned projects provided convenience to the people of Magsaysay. The health services
secure the health of the people in Magsaysay. Magsaysay started to be environmentally conscious
by promoting protection of environment and cleanliness. Also, Mayor Haron was concerned to the
social well-being of his constituents resulting to his projects on social welfare. Moreover, Mayor
Omar allocated a budget on the improvement of more electric and power source and the
development of agriculture constructed the MPB with solar drier, and the concreting of road. To
put importance on agriculture a resolution was enacted, as follows;
Agriculture is one of the major livelihoods of the people of Magsaysay and since stealing
of small crops and others and rampant; and to promote peace and order, Resolution No.
3, S. 2004 declared stealing of small crops is illegal60
Former Mayor Haron extended its services to the health of his constituents in order to stop
the epidemic of getting communicable disease. The Rural Health Unit of Magsaysay, Lanao del
Norte in consonance to the program of the national government also launched the operation of
ligtas tigdas. This health operation program is under Resolution No. 13, S. 2004. It is appropriating
the amount of six thousand (6 000.00) pesos for the operation of ligtas tigdas.61
Moreover, Haron Omar implemented Resolution no. 20, S. 2004, regarding the use of
improved technology for e-governance. This resolution is read as follows;
Whereas, DTI as one of the lead government agencies promoting ICT, has secured a grant
aid from the Government of Japan under the Non – Project Grant Assistance Program to
make ICT access available to selected public high schools and Local Government Units
(LGUs) by providing computers and other peripherals, in pursuance of the government’s
efforts at developing government’s capability for E-Commerce. The NCC is implementing
the E-LGU Project, ‘Jumpstarting Electronic Governance in Local Government Units’,
which seeks to accelerate the implementation of the electronic government system as well
as speed up the application of ICT in government processes and services. The Municipality
60 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Sessions of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution No. 3, S.
2004.
61 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Sessions of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution No. 13,
S. 2004.
of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte realizes the importance of transforming the local
government units for E-Governance.62
Haron Omar also gave credits to the effort of his father. It is a public knowledge that late
Mayor Hadji Macasamat D. Omar has been serving the municipality for more than two decades as
Municipal Mayor whose superb performance during his incumbency brought a lot of developments
specifically the stability of peace and order and the continued existence of harmonious relationship
between the Meranaws and Christians. The retirement of Mayor Hadji Macasamat D. Omar as
public servant did not hinder his dream of serving the people thus, he became a municipal
consultant for peace and order. Late Mayor Macasamat Omar were given a plaque of recognition
as the Municipal Consultant on Peace and Order in grateful recognition to his undying support,
excellent services and performance rendered to the Local Government Unit of Magsaysay, Lanao
del Norte as the Municipal Consultant on Peace and Order. 63
Another project that been approved under the Resolution no. 21, S. 2004. It is a resolution
that allocates an amount of One Hundred Twenty Five Thousand Pesos (Php 125, 000.00) for the
implementation of the DPWH – LGU cost sharing project. A Memorandum of Agreement was
signed on February 7, 2004, for the implementation of cost-sharing program on road concreting
with the national government.
Resolution No. 8 S, 2004 contains a request to Honorable Congressman Abdullah D.

Dimaporo 2nd district Lanao del Norte to provide financial assistance worth eight hundred thousand
(800,000.00) pesos from his countryside development fund for the rehabilitation of the farm-to-
market road of Barangay Lemoncret, Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte connecting Poblacion.
Consequently the request on the aforementioned resolution was approval under the Resolution No.
73, S. 2004.64 This project under the said resolutions will provide convenience for the farmers to
transport farm products down to the market.
S. 2004.
S. 2004
64 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Sessions of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution No. 8, S.
2004 approved under Resolution No. 73, S. 2004.

Just like his father late Haron gives importance and values education most. In his
administration he approved a resolution embodying ordinance adopting a scholarship grant
program of the Municipality of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte. The Resolution No. 82, S. 2004
whereas a pursuant to Art. XIV sec. 1 of the Philippine Constitution stipulates that “the state shall
protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take
appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all”. Whereas the resolution also reflecting
further under the Art. II, sec. 17 that “the state shall give priority to education, science and
technology, arts, culture and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress
and promote total human liberation and development”. And also, Art. XIV sec. 2 (3) also provides
that “the state shall maintain a system of scholarship grants, loan programs, subsidies and other
incentives which shall be available to deserving students in both public and private schools
especially to the underprivileged.” It has been noted that there are a number of poor and deserving
students in the locality to which, if given the opportunity to further their studies, will precisely be
useful and productive citizens in the community in the future.65
The resolution aforementioned is written under Municipal Ordinance No.1, S. 2004

consisting of 7 sections discussing its beneficiaries and the terms and conditions for the recipients
66
of the scholarship. The ordinance shall take effect on the date of its approval. Indeed, Haron
provided education for the poor.
Moreover, the Municipality of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte is within the target project
areas for agricultural reform thus, under Resolution No. 84, S. 2004, Director Rufo C. Chan, Jr.,
Regional executive director, department of Agriculture regional realized Magsaysay’s intention to
avail infrastructure for rural productivity enhancement sector infrastructure program.67 This
approved resolution improved and provided convenience to the farmers, made their production
faster and easier. In relation to this resolution, more resolutions were approved for the development
of agriculture, food security, poverty alleviation and social equity, Mayor Haron saw to it that the
poorest sectors of society have equitable access to resources income opportunities, basic and
S. 2004.
66 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Sessions of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Ordinance No. 1, S.
2004.
S. 2004.
support services to improve their quality of life. Thus, two million pesos (Php 2,000,000.00) from
the Department of Agriculture was allocated in support to the implementation of Agriculture
and Fishery Modernization Program especially to cover purchase of farm inputs and implements.68
In relation to environmental consciousness, Haron Omar is promoting cleanliness through

his approved Resolution No. 85, S. 2004 identify and determine a specific hour every week to
conduct a clean-up activity in the surrounding premises of government buildings, structures, public
places and streets. It is a resolution that promotes oneness of the people in the community
especially the youth who are participating in the clean-up drive. 69 The environment was addressed
and so with the youth engagement. Former Mayor Haron D. Omar is very observant of cleanliness,
during his administration he approved a resolution on 2005 that was proposed on 2004 were the
main program of this resolution is adopting the integrated and ecological solid waste management
ordinance of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte. The province, city or municipality, through its local
solid waste management boards, shall prepare its respective 10-year solid waste management plans
consistent with the National Solid Waste Management Framework: re-use and recycling. This
Resolution No. 118, S. 2005 became a Municipal Ordinance No. 4, S. 2005 that contains eleven
articles discussing about the general provisions of this Ecological solid waste management
project/program of former Mayor Haron D. Omar.70
To meet the increasing demand of electricity in the locality, Resolution no. 107, S. 2004
paved way to the proposed 3-phase electrification line.
Resolution No. 109, S. 2004 to continuously support road rehabilitation, portable water system was
enacted allocating the amount of Six Hundred Twenty Five Thousand Six Hundred Pesos (Php 625, 500.00)
pesos yearly for a period of ten years for the maintenance of sub-projects of DAR –ADB – ARCP in the
Municipality.71
S. 2004.
S. 2004.
S. 2004 became a Municipal Ordinance No. 4, S. 2005.
S. 2004.
The 2004 projects and programs of former Mayor Haron Omar is undeniably contributing
to the development of Magsaysay. In his continuing years of being a mayor he continued to make
Magsaysay more develop economically and socially.
On 2005, more of his programs and concerns were about health services, drug prevention
program, social services, emergency assistance, youth and women program and day care workers.
The offered social services promoted peace and education. Lastly, the resolution also includes,
light and power, agricultural services, peace and order, improvement of drainage and canal of
public market, installation of street lights for security and the upgrading of roads from Daan –
Campo to Durianon.72 In addition, there were construction of Multi-purpose building at Barangay
Poblacion rehabilitation of Daan Campo – Durianon feeder road sub-project of Lumbac –
Poblacion Arc funded by the STARCM program of the Department of Land and Reform.73
This resolution with various programs helped Magsaysay to be more developed and
accessible.
Figure 17. Concrete road in Barangay Olango
S. 2005.
S. 2005.
Furthermore, in 2009 Mayor Haron D. Omar, to prevent criminals or lawless elements from
doing any criminalities, street lighting was considered.74
The various projects and programs of Mayor Haron Omar on 2005 improved and developed
the status of the people in Magsaysay, the security rate of Magsaysay also increased due to the
attention given by the Mayor. Magsaysay was at its peak of becoming more developed
Municipality and one of its factor for becoming a developed municipality despite of its history of
being a sitio of Tangkal before is its leaders, Mayor Haron D. Omar.
On 2006, former Mayor Haron D. Omar continued its service and continued implementing
various programs and projects beneficiary to the people of Magsaysay such as appropriating -----
-----75
PROJECTS / PROGRAMS DESCRIPTION
Social
1. Emergency assistance Calamity program
2. Youth program Youth activities
3. Women program Women’s activities
4. Day Care Workers Honoraria
5.. Peace and Order Police & Military program
HEALTH
1. Medical supplies Medicine/medical supply
ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM
1.Clean & Green Beautification program
74 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Sessions of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution No. 21 –
A, S. 2005
S. 2006.
ECONOMIC
1. Light & Power Electrical maintenance
2. Municipal streets Maintenance of Municipal Streets
3. Agriculture Agricultural Extension Services
4. Back stop of Tennis Court Construction
Table 2. Projects
The above table enumerated the various projects and programs considered to be
implemented for 2006. Another Resolution is Resolution No. 84, S. 2006 on the memorandum of
agreement for the potable water supply system of Poblacion between the Local Government Unit
of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte, BAWASA and DAR. 76
Meanwhile, it has been observed that illegal gambling activities are existing in the
municipality in spite of the campaign made by enforcers and local official. Among the identified
illegal gambling activities are suertres, video carera and gambling using playing cards more
popularly known in the locality as “baraha”. It is believed that the continuous operation of these
illegal gambling activities would redound and / or greatly affect the economic condition of the
constituents and might also cause youngsters to commit criminalities such as thief and robbery.
This Resolution No. 89, S. 2006 urged the PNP through the chief of Police SPO4 Saiben I Omar
to apprehend all illegal gambling activities existing in the Municipality such as but not limited to
suertres, video carera and gambling using playing cards. 77
Department of Agrarian Reform to strengthen the agricultural reform enhance their dignity
and improve their quality of living of farmer thus Resolution No. 96, S. 2006 endoresed the six
S. 2006.
S. 2006.
barangays namely; Baguiguicon, Olango, Tipaan, Tambacon, Lemoncret and Somiorang as new
arc area of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte.78
To continue, Resolution No, 2007-001 adopt the (AIP) Supplemental Budgets for
programs/projects funded out the 20%development fund for the year of 2006 appropriating the
following projects 79. The priority programs / projects subject for funding are the following:
Maintenance of other 10,866.00

structures
Equity construction waterways 6,461.25
(Daan Campo)
Repair Municipal Building 196,866.00
Repair auditorium bleachers 19,769.00
Construction internet café’ 30,673.00
room, tables and chairs
Table 3. Projects
Like his father he continued to maintain the peace and order in Magsaysay, he also became
the mediator of the Muslims and Christians in Magsaysay. Some of the Informants were satisfied
about the way he rules but some were not, because there is no big project that he has constructed
in Magsaysay but accordingly he was able to maintain the peace and order in Magsaysay. As what
the informants said that:
“Kana si Don2x gang Maayu mana sya nga pagka mayor kay naa say kalinaw sa magsaysay sa iyaang
pag dumala pero wala lng gud tay makit an kaayu nga mga dako nga establishmento, pero maayu japon
sya kay ginagmay rasad ang mga away2x sa iyaa nga term kay mga hubog raman tu nga mag wild”80
(Don2x gang, he was a good mayor because there is peace and order in Magsaysay during his term but
there is no big establishment or development during his term)
It is not unavoidable to encounter trouble and challenges in the politics, Haron was able to
developed Magsaysay on what is it now. However, during his term he was able to counter the
MILF on 2002, it was when Former President Estrada declared an all-out war against the MILF.
According to him and to one of the Informant, together with his father they went to the south area
2006.
79 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Sessions of The Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del, Norte. RESOLUTION NO.
2007 - 001
80 An interviewed with Mr.Miranda in his residence in Magsaysay . Interviewed November 14 2018

of Magsaysay where the MILF were trying to pass on it, and because of their hard work and effort,
they were able to stop the MILF from passing and attacking Magsaysay. Some of the problems he
encountered during his term was when the MILF was trying to attack Magsaysay but together his
father he went to his relatives in Marawe and asked for help in order to defend Magsaysay and to
prevent MILF from attacking and passing on it.
“Nagpasalamat rasad baya mi nila kay tungod nila nga mag ama kay wa rasad kasulod ang
mga MILF sa Magsaysay, kay kong nakasulod maguba guro ang magsaysay ug daghan siguro
kaayu ang Mangamatay atu.”81
(We were so thankful of macasamat and to his son because of them, the MILF wasn’t able to
attack Magsaysay, because if they did there is a big possibility that innocent people could be
killed)
It was his father late Mayor Macasamat who introduce peace and Mayor Haron D. Omar was
challenge of maintaining it, Mayor Haron were able to solved the problem and maintained peace
and order. The implemented resolutions and municipal ordinances did not focus to the
development of Magsaysay but it also improved and upgrades the security of the people which is
in line to the maintained of peace and order. Just like his father, Mayor Haron remained just and
fair between and among Muslim and Christian. Probably one of the reasons why peace and order
remained in Magsaysay. Indeed, the socio-cultural relation of Meranaws and Christians was
challenged during the 1970 Martial Law but there was peaceful co-existence.
Haironi D. Omar, his younger brother succeeded him. Like his father his main goal is to
maintain the just and fair treatment between and among the residents, to maintain the peace and
order because according to their father peace is the most important things that should be prioritize.
Such is the most valued legacy; their father left and continues to remind them.
4.4 Former Mayor Haironie Deriposon Omar(2007-2015)
81An Interviewed with Mr. Rebojo in his residence in Magsaysay. Corroborated by Haron D. Omar. Interviewed November 28
2018
Figure 20. Haironie with his wife Azisah. Photo taken by Zenaida Omar at Tubod Lanao Del
Norte on November 21,2017.
Mayor Haironie Deriposon Omar is the third Omar mayor in Magsaysay and is the youngest
son of Macasamat Omar and Modiana Deriposon. He was born in Sanitarium Hospital at Iligan
City on January 1, 1976.
Haironie Omar enrolled in La Salle Academy in his Elementary days and High School days
while he enrolled at Iligan Medical College in pursuing college degree, but unfortunately he wasn’t
able to finish his degree. On his young days he was considered as “bugoy” bisayan term for
delinquent, due to the influenced of his friends. According to his daughter Hafysiah;
“Not really sure about this but I remembered my father telling me he had his high school
in La Salle Academy here in Iligan. Unfortunately, he was kicked out. Bugoy man gd na sha
sauna.”82
(Not really sure about this but I remembered my father telling me he had his high school
in La Salle Academy here in Iligan, unfortunately, he was kicked out, he was delinquent
before))
82 An Interviewed with Ms.Hafysiah Omar in her residence in Palao Iligan City. November 29, 2018
But when he was at his legal age he became mature and responsible because his father would
always give him a lesson. He was young when he married his wife, Azisah Saranggani Omar. The
marriage was pre-arranged between the family. According to his mother, Modiana(83
“pkababayaan akin so wata akin ago na pkababayaan nakin igira a sakin e pamamili sii
ko mapangaruma iran para katawan akin a sisii siran sa mapiya a taw, na aya kin
kyababayaan ki Haironie na so wata e Pli ka parinti akin bo si Pli so ina e Azisah”
(i wanted to choose the partner of my children so that I know that they’re in the good
hands, I choose Azisah as wife of my son because her mother is my friend, Pli”
He has no choice but to agree with her mother since he really love his mother. Although, they were
married at their early age they were separated not until in their legal age. He was only 17 years old
when he married Azisah who is also 12 years old at that time. They have six offspring namely
Hafysiah, Usman Hawlan, Hasna, Najil, Huzair, and Nazik. According to his daughter Hasyfiah
he is a loving father and he always supported her in terms of academics but a little bit strict.
Politics is not new to Haironi since most of his relative was inclined in the world of politics
and before he served as mayor he also served as councilor in Magsaysay in 2004. As term of his
brother Haron was about to end he was chosen by his father and brother to succeed because his
father knows that Haironi has the potential of becoming a good leader as seen on his performance
when he was still serving as a municipal councillor and aside from that some of the people in
Magsaysay requested him to run because they saw how passionate he was in serving the people
and Magsaysay. On 2007 local election, Haironi Omar filed his candidacy for mayoralty race and
won over his adversary Ex-army major Nestor Aguinid.84 He was very motivated to run for mayor
because he has a lot of supporter not just his family but the residents of Magsaysay as well 85 He
took his oath as the new mayor on May 31, 2007 and June 28, 2010 for his second term.86
According his sister Soraida, Mayor Hairoini has his own world he doesn’t want to be
dictated unlike Haron. Haironi in terms of making decision he always do it on his own he doesn’t
want any opinion from his family to avoid confusion, but he will see to it that it is always in the
83 An interviewed with Modiana Deriposon in her residence in Palao Iligan city. Interviewed November 29, 2018
84 Unpublished Journal of Realista, Romanito The History of Magsaysay. Municipality of Magsaysay, 1995 p 14.
85 An interviewed with Modiana Deriposon in her residence in Palao Iligan city. Interviewed November 29, 2018
86 Copy on Oath of Office of Mr. Haironi Omar

ambit of law. But during his last term he realized that two is better than one to which he started to
consult to his siblings.87
In terms of relation with his constituents he was more approachable than Haron, because
Haron accordingly is stricter than him. When he served as mayor he was very humble and
approachable. One of the informants said;
“maskin sayu sa buntag gang muadtu kas ilaa tas natulog sya dayun makabalo
sya nga naay nangita niya, di sya mag duha2x mu naog jud na sya maskin si kinsa
paka para atubangon ka, maayu gyud kay na sya nga pagka mayor gang di gyud ka
mataha nilag atubang pero si Mayor Haron sauna kay mataha mi niya kay striktuhon
sya gyud” 88
“Early in the morning, if we’d visit him in his home even when his half-asleep
he woudnt think twice and he would entertain us even if who it is he would entertain
and talk to you, that’s how kind he is as a mayor. When you are talking to Mayor
Haron you would not feel astrange, the past mayors were to strict so we would not
feel comfortable talking to him”
Residents in Magsaysay like him as a mayor because of his good attitude and behavior towards his
people. Accordingly peace and order in Magsaysay was stable there is no major conflicts that
occurred after the ambush in Mona-mona on 2008 in fact today even there is no theft and drug
addict that existed in the municipality, and the conflict between Muslim and christian is easily
settled . According to Limbi
“ko mamayor si Haironie na myangaaada din so mga mangararata atao so mga tikaw sa
mga ayamin, so mga drug addict, go so mga christian ago mga mranao a dii bubunaay ka
poon sa kapaginom, imantu na tantu din a myapeaceful a magsaysay ka poon kiran a
pamilya.”89
(the time that Mayor Haironie become a mayor, the bad people was gone, there is no
theives, drug addict, and the alcoholic muslim and christian was being control so that conflict
can be avoided, because of their family peaceful was obtain.)
In terms of settling feud between Muslims versus Muslim, Christians versus Christians, and
Muslims versus Christians. He always see to it that he will not take side. According to him;
“wala gyud misolod sa akong huna2x na abi kayg Meranaw ko moside ko nila wala gyud
na sa akong huna2x both sides gyud ko dapat mo tan aw fair jud ko sa tanan fair. Kong
nay probleama between muslim to muslim akong gamiton akong pagka muslim nga style
pero syempre inline gihapon sa gobyerno nga process, kung sa Christian versus Christians
87 An Interview with Mrs. Soraida Omar Macadindang in her Residence at 542 Palao on March 15, 2019
88 An Interview with Mr. Olango in Magsaysay. Interviewed November 4, 2018
89 An Interview with Rebisalam Inton in her Residence in Poblacion Magsaysay. Interviewed November 2, 2018
sad kay mura japon murag katung akong stilo nga pagka kristiyano mao sad akong
gamiton pero dili japon ko molapas sa pamalaod sa gobyerno, ang isa gyud nga dako nga
problema sa Magsaysay kay muslim to Christian kay dali ra kaayu na mo erupt
tandogonon so dapat gyud balance mao na akong punto ganina nga dili gyud mo inclined
akong huna2x nga abi kayg muslim ko modapig kog muslim naa ko permi sa mutual, kong
ang kristyan sal an mao gyuy sal an atung balihon ireverse kong muslim sal an mao gyuy
sal an, fair tanan”
(It never crossed my mind that because I am a meranaw then I should take the side of my
fellow meranaw. I am fair to everyone. If there’s a conflict between muslims I used my
muslim style but I always see to it that it is not beyond on the government process. And in
the Christians between Christians I also used a Christian style. But one of the biggest
problem in Magsaysay was the conflict between Muslims and Christianity and in this kind
of problem I always see to it that I am fair and just. If the muslims is the guilty then they
should face the consequences just like the Christians. I never take sides for I am fair to
everyone)
Haironi managed the municipality impressively, most of the residents in Magsaysay is
satisfied to his leadership. During his administration he concentrated on maintaining peace and
order, and at the same time he constructed several infrastructure and roads for Magsaysay’s
improvement.
During his term, Haroni D. Omar had worked hard for the development of Magsaysay, for in
every politician had programs and projects to help their people have a better life and to develop
and improve the particular place they are ruling. Former Mayor Haironi has proven his worth as a
mayor in Magsaysay with the following achievements and contributions of his term in his
incumbency.
It is very uncommon to every politician that they will not encounter challenges especially
during their political engagement. Mayor Haironi’s first term in Magsaysay prioritized peace and
order, accordingly “Peace and order is an essential ingredient in maintaining economic development,
social order and political stability. During his interview he also mentioned
“ako gyung na concentretan kay ang peace and order kay unsaon man natu ang economics
kong walay peace and order”
(I concentrated on maintaining peace and order what would you do with the economy if there’s
no peace and order)
It is also during his first term that he encountered several crimes. On 2008 Former Mayor
Haironi encountered his major problems in dealing peace and order of his administration .Because
on that year particularly on July 18, hundreds of armed men, allegedly members of MILF attacked
the municipality of Kulambugan Lanao Del Norte a neighboring municipality of Magsaysay. The
attack led to the brutal killings of many innocent civilian. Haironi was threaten so he immediately
alerted his people for there is a report that the armed men who attacked Kolambugan will pass thru
Magsaysay and seemingly hold civilians as human shield for their withdrawal because Magsaysay
is only adjacent to Kolambugan. This led to some residents of Magsaysay vacated their homes for
fear and fled to other municipality for their own safety. Fortunately, the armed men find another
ways for their escape without passing the municipality of Magsaysay. Haironi and his counterparts
in the province of Lanao Del Sur they have prevented the armed group. In connection to that a
number of evacuees from other municipalities who was affected from that attacked, .need
immediate assistance such as food and other necessities and Haironi allocated an amount of ninety
thousand pesos as assistance to the evacuees.90 Aside from that Former Mayor Haironi request the
Commanding Officer 5th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army to reinstall the CAFGU detachment
at Baguiguicon (Muna-Muna area) in the municipality under the Resolution No.2008-798.
Former Haironi was again tested with the series of crimes including the killings of two SB
namely the late Generoso Jamora and Emmanuel Sumner Supilanas. Investigation is being
conducted with the assistance of Haironi and support of the National Bureau of Investagition (NBI)
as requested by the family of the victims for the justice to be served and so that the perpetrators
will be brought to court. Until now the perpetrators are not found. Around December 2008 he again
encountered problem when Family Guinal was ambushed in Muna-muna an area between
Barangay Tambacon and Baguiguicon, this resulted to 6 dead and almost 30 wounded . An
interview with Hadradi Bucay one of the witness and at the same time
“Pag Pauli nmo. Gi atangan mi sa muna2 gi pusil tong driver sa samyanan mao tong ni
bangga sa kaymeto/starapple. Ang ubang nanag motor nga kauban nka lusot nka uli Sila. Pro
katong naa sa sakyanan naa Ra sa sulod ang uban nga naa sa topload Kay naay nangadat.ugan
sa sakyanan. Ang mga dakong lalaki nga ga sakay say sakyanan oi gi lanat nila. Pagka. After
30mts ni abot ang patrol car. Didto Ra Na human.” 91
“On the way home from Timoga we were attacked at Muna-muna our driver was shot
that’s why we hit the Starapple. Those who were riding in a motorcycle were able to escaped, but
90
An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte.
RESOLUTION NO. 2008 – 79A
91 An Interview with Hadradi Bucay through Chat in Facebook Interviewed March 15,2019
those in in the back of jeep were trampled to death. Those big guys in the jeep were killed. After
30 minutes a patrol car arrived”
There were many speculations why this family was ambushed some would say that it was
family feud but some would say the ILAGA made this violent act. Hadradi also mentioned that
there about 5 armed men wearing handkerchief to hide their face and identity.
Because of this many atrocities he immediately took an action and request to re-install the
CAFGU in Muna-Muna to put a check point in the said area to secure the commuters/travelers. It
is a public knowledge that the peace and order situation of this municipality has been destroyed as
a result of the recent ambush and killings, but after this incident there are no other major conflict
that ever happened up till now because Haironi saw to it that security remains.92 In fact after the
ambushed occurred Mrs. Soraida witnessed that he cried at the front of his people because couldn’t
believe it and he was nearly to give up during that time but he realized that he could solved it and
he has to be strong for his people one of the solution he did was he arranged a peace talk between
the Muslim and Christian in Magsaysay.
Figure 21. Muna-muna Checkpoint
92An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution No.
2008-798. Corroborated by Jabar Omar. Interviewed November 19, 2018
On his first term he also stopped the rampant illegal gambling such as video karera and
suertres.93 He urged the Philippine National Police assigned for the full enforcement and
apprehension of all illegal gambling activities within the territorial jurisdiction of Magsaysay
Lanao del Norte.94 The continued existence of illegal gambling adversely affect the economic
status of the town’s populace and is identified as one of the causes of criminalities such as theft
especially among the youth. After this he was able to stop the ongoing gambling in Magsaysay.
A resolution was also passed under his first term, Resolution no.2008-78 expressly
opposing for the inclusion of the municipality of Magsaysay on the proposed Bangsamoro Juridical
Entity (BJE). all of the 24 barangays of the Municipality of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte are
included in the proposed Bangsamoro Juridical Entity as drafted by the GRP-MILF parties. The
Municipality of Magsaysay is populated with peace-loving Muslims and Christians whose present
understanding and harmonious relationship exist regardless of cultural and religious diversities.
Almost all of the constituents of the municipality express their strong opposition and are in favor
to stay on the present set-up under the Government of the Republic of the Philippines. Although
Former Mayor Haroni is a Muslim he was opposed to the idea of including Magsaysay in BJE
because he respect and consider the Christians in Magsaysay.
A resolution was also approved to which allocate an amount of 200, 000,00 which granted
for the acquisition of additional lot for school site at Baguiguicon High School Annex, at
Baguiguicon, Magsaysay Lanao Del Norter. Since, there is a need to purchase additional lot to be
used as school site of the Baguiguicon High School, Baguiguicon Annex under Resolution No.
2011-10.95
In the second term of his administration he was able to implement several projects. He has
constructed and repaired roads, school buildings, and municipal buildings.
2008-75.
94 An
excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. RESOLUTION NO.
2008 – 75
2011-11.
Some of the infrastructures that has been constructed under his leadership was the Health
Center and 15 units Co-Shelter for Barangay Durianon and construction of Bigasan ng Barangay
and 10 units co – shelter for Barangay Lemoncret, the Municipal Waiting Shed, lastly the PNP
Children Custodial Room He was able to repair the Lemoncret Audtorium, Somiorang Day Care
Center, Daan Campo Repair Center, Brgy. Somiorang Day Care, Brgy. Papandayan Day Care,
Public Market, Rural Health Unit Building, Multi-Purpose Hall, and lastly Municipal
Gmynasium., He was able to construct the drainage canal at the back of market stall, and the DOH-
MCP (Maternity Care Package)
He also improved the Barangay Olango portable water system, Poblacion Municipal Water
System, Repair of potable water system (Upper Caningag). He also purchased second hand
Backhoe, one Dump truck, and he also Purchase of 2 units 6-wheeler dump truck surplus.
Additionally, he was able to concrete some of the municipal street in Magsaysay such as
Bandara St.-Portion of Lapu-Lapu st Quezon St., Aquinaldo St, Badelles St., Pacalanog St.,
Quezon., and Villamor Street. And he was able to repair the following street; Jacinto St, Zamora,
Gen. Malvar, Rodriguez, Gomez, Lunecam, Laurel, Osmena, Burgos. On the year 2012, a project
proposal was also approved for the rehabilitation of Lumbac-Panggao Farm-toroad market,
because it has been observed that the said farm-to-market road is no longer passable to any vehicle,
thus there is a need to rehabilitate the same for the convenience of the farmers to transport their
farm products down to the market.96
Still in his second term he was able to repair 11 school in Magsaysay namely; Lemoncret,
Tambacon, Olango, Baguiguicon, Lumbac, Magsaysay Central Elem. School,Somiorang,
Durianon, Talambo Primary Schools, Magsaysay National High School &Baguiguicon High
School
Furthermore, a resolution which was approved in his second term in support on the
Guidelines of the “Katas ng VAT: Tulong Para kay Lolo at Lola a project of the Department of
Social welfare and Development. one of the general policies of the said guidelines is that the
beneficiaries must be 70 years and above, dependent or belonging to a family whose income is
96
An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. RESOLUTION
NO. 2012 – 07
within or below the poverty threshold per area and not covered by any private and/or government
agency retirement benefit.
In addition it was also through Haironi that Magsaysay participated in KALAHI-CIDSS
project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Since the municipality is
in need of financial assistance to finance priority programs and projects through Kapit/Bisig Laban
sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services this is one of the program
of the DSWD Field Office 10, Cagayan De Oro City. They allocate the amount of One Million Six
Hundred Twenty Thousand Pesos (PHP 1,620,000.00) as local counterpart funds for the KALAHI
– CIDSS projects this municipality chargeable against the General Fund under ‘Other Income’ and
to be realigned appropriations from the 20% development fund CY 2012 subject to the usual
accounting and auditing rules and regulations.
Still in his second term, a Resolution no. 2013-71 which adopt municipal ordinance
appropriating the amount of three million four hundred pesos (PHP 3,400,00.00) for funding DA-
BUB Projects Calendar year, to which under resolution no. 2012—23 the Municipality of
Magsaysay Lanao del Norte has entered into Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of
Agriculture Regional Field Unit No. 10 regarding the Bottom-Up Budgeting / Local Poverty
Reduction Action Program for FY 2013 implementation.97
That the said amount be appropriated for the following projects:
Name of Projects Amount

1. Support Infrastructure Projects 750,000.00
- Concreting of Perimbangan FMR
- Durianon FMR
2. Construction of TRAM Line 1,500,000.00
3. Banana Cardava Production Project 250,000.00
4. Munggo / Peanut Production 50,000.00
5. Rootcrop (Camote) Production 50,000.00
6. Vegetable Production (pakbit vegetables) 50,000.00
7. Corn Production (OPV White) 300,000.00
8. Upland Rice Production 50,000.00
9. Goat Production Project 150,000.00
10. Carabao Production 200,000.00
11. Establishment of Forage Farm 35,000.00
12. Dispersal of Tilapia Fingerlings 15,000.00
Table. Projects
97 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. Resolution 2019-71
These several projects were constructed under his administration on his second term and it is undeniable
that this project help Magsaysay developed and improve to what is now Magsaysay.
Under the third term of the leadership of Haironi he donated a parcel of land with an area
of 36, 289 squares as additional school site intended for senior high school of the Magsaysay
National High School. Since the school is in need of additional land for their Senior High Building
implementing the new educational system the K-12 program, to help the school attain its goal.98
In addition Haironi allocate 150,000.00 for purchasing of materials and equipment needed for the
implementation of K-12 program.99 It was also during the administration of Haironi supporting the
conversion of Tambacon Elementary School into Tambacon Integrated High School. it was
emphasized in the feasibility study that the establishment of Tambacon Integrated High School is
a way of bringing education closer to the people.100
“Kana si Haironi mosuporta gyud na sa amua nay kas a tung hapit na ma

implement ang K-12 nga program mao to nga kami nga mga titser nanginahanglan mig
extension sa yuta para sa bag o nga itukod nga building mao tu wa gyud siya ga duha2x
iya gyud ming na donatan ug yuta, kana dapit sa likod ow mao na ang na donate” as said
by Ma’am Charlyn a fourth year Adviser in Magsaysay National High School.”101
(Haironi was really supported towards us because when the K-12 was near to
implement we need an extension lot for our new building and Haironi didn’t think twice
and he donated a lot for the new building)
In his third term he has constructed the Multi Purpose Hall, and he also repairs the
Municipal Hall of these barangays namely; Baguiguicon, babasalon, Panggao, Lawigadatu,
Poblacion, Lubo, Pelingkingan, Daan campo, Malabaogan, Tipaan, Lemoncret, Tambacon, Ilihan,
Somiorang, Upper Caningag and lower Caningag.
On March 4,2015 Haironie approved the Gender and Development program for the year
2015 in the amount of three million forty- two thousand seven hundred twelve pesos (PHP
98
RESOLUTION NO. 2015 – 16
99 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. RESOLUTION
NO. 2015-45
100 An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. RESOLUTION
NO. 2015-41
101 An Interview with teacher Charlyn Aying at Magsaysay National High School om March 19,2019
3,042,712.00). the said plan indicates the various programs, projects and activity description with
its budgetary requirements for implementation consistent with the LGU’s thrust to effectively
deliver social services to its constituents. Furthermore, on that same year a resolution approving a
list of Anti-Poverty Reductions Projects in the Municipality of Magsaysay. the List of Priority
Projects were lodged to the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of
Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Agriculture and
Department of Education.102
the following projects herein listed are duly approved by the Sangguniang Bayan,
BuB – LIST OF PRIORITY PROJECTS IDENTIFIED BY LPRAT FOR FY 2016

BUDGET
TOTAL PROJECT
AGENCY NAME OF PROJECT REQUESTED
COST
FROM NGAs
1.Support Infrastructure Project
a. Concreting of Barangay
DILG 9,020,000.00 8,200,000.00
Somiorang Farm- to- Market Road
DILG b. Construction of Crisis Center 5,500,000.00 5,000,000.00
2.Department of Health Project
a. Construction of Communal Public
DOH 880,000.00 800,000.00
Toilet
3.Department of Education Project
a. Provision of school Furniture
DEPED 550,000.00 500,000.00
(seats) 100 seat of table & chairs
4.Technical Skills Development
Authority
Technical Skills training and up-
TESDA 550,000.00 500,000.00
grading
TOTAL 16,500,000.00 15,000,000.00
Table. projects
Resolution no.2015-31 approved the 10 year ecological solid waste management plan of
the municipality. The Municipality’s ESWM Plan is patterned to and practically adopts the
102
provisions of RA 9003 known as Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000; the systematic
and comprehensive way of handling the solid waste management program through solid waste
avoidance, volume reduction, proper waste segregation and collection and proper disposal of
residual waste including composting, recycling and the use of proper and environmentally friendly
waste management facility. 103
A resolution approved the list of BUB projects under the fund of Department of Social
Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the year 2015. the identified projects for implementation
are the Upgrading of Barangays Daan Campo and Lumbac Day Care Centers – 600,000.00;
Construction of Barangay Durianon Day Care Center – 800,000.00, and Construction of
Evacuation Center of Poblacion – 1,300,000.00 the said projects are aligned to attain the BUB’s
goal which is the inclusive growth and development in all levels.104:
Many projects during his term were implemented, during his term he focused more on
repairing and constructing road in Magsaysay. It is also through his term that there are about 88%
of households have reportedly access to portable water supply. 10 barangays are recorded to have
100% household coverage. Most water is managed by Barangay Water and Sanitation
Associations, except for barangay Poblacion which is served by the Municipal Water Supply
System.105 After his second term he was succeeded by his wife Azisah Sarangani Omar.
4.5 Mayor Azisah Omar (2016 to present)
She is currently the mayor in Magsaysay, elected on 2016 election and is the wife of Former
Mayor Haironie Omar, she was chosen by his husband to run for mayor in Magsaysay when his
term has ended. Accordingly, it is the people who demanded for her to be the next Mayor of
Magsaysay in order to continue the works of her husband. On the 31 day of May 2016 she took
her oath of office.
103
104
An excerpts from the minutes of regular Session of the Sanggunian Bayan of Magsaysay Lanao del Norte. RESOLUTION
NO. 2015 –35
105 MUNICIPAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPING OFFICE (MPDO)
She is not from Lanao del Norte but originally lived in Madalum, Lanao del Sur. The parents
of Mayor Asizah are equally politician such politics runs in her blood too. Her father is Usman
Saranggani a former mayor in Madalum Municipality and a sultan while her mother is incumbent
Mayor Soraida Saranggani in Madalum. She was born in Marawi City on July 16, 1984. She has
eight siblings namely Saraminda, Omeraida, Aisah, Usman Jr., Omel Khair, Naifah, and lastly
Omaimah Saranggani. She had her elementary and high school in Madalum Lanao del Sur but she
had her college in Medical College at Iligan City. However, she wasn’t able to finish her study
because she became pregnant.
The reason why she entered politics according to her is that she wanted to serve the people
and to be the instrument in developing Magsaysay just how her husband served his people.
Accordingly she was influenced by her husband to run for mayor, aside from the support coming
from the supporters of her husband.
During the election her opponent was her brother-in-law Ambassador Acmad Omar.
Accordingly, there was misunderstanding between the Omar siblings but later settled by her
mother-in-law Modiana with the help of her sister in law Rawla who insisted to talk and settled
the problem.
As the current Mayor, informants would say that there are many projects that she constructed
and implemented. One of the informants Rosenda Puya narrated her admiration and love to Mayor
Azisah.
“labi na karung si Azisah suss soud nko kanang muadtu ko sa ila maskin diko mangayug kwarta tagaan
ko kining tiguwang nako….. soud man nko sya sa ila gyud kong balay muadtu, ang ikinahinaway lang
gyud nako ning uban magsalig sila ba nga maskin ubo lng sa ilang mga anak kay modoul.. unya
muhatag baya gyud dayun si Azisah”
(Mayor Azisah is very approachable there is a time that I would visit her in their house or in her office
she welcomed me happily and then she would give me money even though I didn’t ask for it; and
sometimes her goodness was taken advantage by other people”
Figure 24. Trading Center
Azisah was able to establish economic enterprises such as slaughter house Bagsakan, Center
trading and food terminal. She was also able to improve barangay road, installs a police/AFP
COMPAC for the security of the people in Magsaysay and hired additional policemen to protect
and cater the growing population of the Municipality. For easy access of the documents needed
she also implemented the computerization of all LGU transactions by installing a LAN that made
the work of her people easy and accessible.
Figure 25. House Bagsakan
Azisah was charitable to her constituents, her social programs and projects involved
conditional transfer for poor families that will give the families convenience and easy access of
livelihood. Furthermore, she establishes Day Care Center for children in to provide health care
services and reduce the possibility of developing diseases. She also provide scholarships form the
LGU to support children who lack of financial assistance and for the convenience of the students
who will attend school she improve the facilities of the public schools and establish a
technical/vocational school. Aside from the education she also provided a skills training and
development program for the people in Magsaysay to have their own business, in relation to her
skills training and development she establish a small skills training center with complete
equipment and facilities. Mayor Azisah also provides an additional barangay health stations for
the community that gives any form of health care.
Figure 26. Roads
Figure 27 Day Care center
Mayor Azisah implemented an integrated coconut development program and establishes high
value crops demonstrations farms. In order to provide enough knowledge of proper taking care of
the crops of the business owners and employees she initiated the livestock development program,
agricultural input subsidy project that provide a positive overall net income in case of failure of
the market for the crops of the farmers. In relation to the agricultural, livelihood development of
Azisah includes the establishing a village level processing centers for the crops and intensified
cooperative development program, trade centers within strategic barangays of the municipality.
Magsaysay Municipality has its own tourist spot and Azisah developed Somiorang Waterfalls,
BOHO the manmade tunnel during the existence of Timberland Company, Lumbac spring and the
horse racing site or commonly known as rancho. In order to explore the tourist spots she also
developed roads for easy access.
Figure 28 Negosyo Center

Azisah concretes the municipal streets and barangays including barangay Poblaciom, Tipaan,
Talambo, Pangao and Caningag. Furthermore, she also constructed a new Municipal Government
building to provide convenience to her worker. Mayor Azisah also constructed a new commercial
center at poblacion to provide more space for the people in the Municipality that wanted to build
their business. The development of Sanitary landfill that isolate the waste from the growing
environment of Magsaysay and also to protect the people from the development of any diseases
and it is one of her major infrastructures project for the health care of the people of Magsaysay.
Mayor Azisah is strict in terms of the cleanliness of the surroundings so one of her projects is the
construction of communal public toilet that is safe and clean to use, she assigned one person to
clean the public restroom to maintain its cleanliness. One of her major infrastructure projects that
provided the basic needs of the people in Magsaysay is the construction and the development of
the Level II water systems DDC for barangays.
The projects and programs of Mayor Azisah for environmental management include the
intensification of planting and taking care of planted trees, she also purchased 6-wheeler garbage
truck to maintain cleanliness. She also took an action of obtaining pre-disaster program and rescue
operation equipment and purchases a rescue vehicle, ambulance equipped with lifesaving
apparatus and others that needed for safety and for health.
Figure 29 Garbage Collector Truck
Figure 30 Rural Health Unit
During the first term of Mayor Azisah year 2016 she promoted a program under the
Resolution no. 2016 – 04 that endorsing to the MINSAAD that the local government unit of
Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte expresses its willingness to provide counterpart of ten percent (10%)
for the sub-projects under the DAR-MINSAAD Program whereas the sub-projects under the
program of the Department of Agrarian Reform - Mindanao Sustainable Agrarian and
Agriculture Development Project (MINSAAD) is envisioned to increase agricultural productivity
and income of the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries of this municipality. Also, the Sangguniang
Bayan is endorsing and providing support to the sub-projects of the DAR-MINSAAD program
namely;
 Coffee Production and Processing – Somiorang ARB (Agrarian Reform
Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative)
 Cacao Production – Daan Campo Farmers Consumers Cooperative
 Rubber Production – Lumbac Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Consumers
Cooperative.
The Local Government Unit of this municipality as partner with the DAR-MINSAAD
program in nation-building and development has committed to mutually work together through
cooperation in various programs designed to improve the quality of lives of the people of
this municipality. The sub-projects will be implemented by the local government of this
municipality with the technical assistance from the DAR-MINSAAD.
The approval of Resolution no. 1 S. 2015 which contains the Gender and Development
focal point system executive committee “Adopting the Annual Gender and Development (GAD)
Plan and Budgeting for CY 2016 of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte with the amount of Three Million
Three Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Eight Hundred Three (Php 3, 375, 803.00). This resolution
refers to the development perspective and process that is participatory and empowering, equitable,
sustainable, free from violence, respectful of human rights, supportive of self-determination and
actualization of human potentials.
Resolution no. 2016 – 12, another resolution under the administration of Mayor Azisah
that grant a counterpart funding the amount of One Hundred Fifty Thousand Persos (Php 150,
000.00) for the construction of storage facility with multi-purpose drying pavement at Barangay
Lumbac in this municipality, the project is given by the DA-OPAPP under the Agricultural
Productivity Support Project for the construction of Storage Facility with Multi-Purpose Drying
Pavement at Barangay Lumbac. In relation to the construction of storage facility, the Resolution
no. 2016 – 19 contains the statement of adopting municipal appropriation ordinance appropriating
the amount of One Million Six Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos (Php 1, 650, 000.00) for the DA-
PAMANA project thus; construction of storage facility with multi-purpose drying pavement at
Barangay Lumbac in the municipality.
Under the Resolution no. 2017 – 01 is the approval of Resolution no. 2, S 2016 of the
Municipal Development Council of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte adopting the utilization of the
20% development fund for CY 2017 in the amount of Fifteen Million One Hundred Fifty Five
Thousand Three Hundred Seventy Pesos (Php 15, 155, 370.00). Below are the projects that
compose this resolution
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Concreting 50 meters Cemetery Access Road 250,000.00
Concreting 50 mts Access Road Magsaysay Central Elem. Sch 250,000.00
Concreting of Aguinaldo St. 100 meters 650,000.00
Concreting of Rizal Avenue 130 meters 810,000.00
Concreting of Jacinto St. RHU Junction 810,000.00
Construction of Grouted Riprap Quezon St. 50,000.00
Graveling of Brgy. Lemoncret-Sitio Bulod 100,000.00
Construction of Roof Shed at Tennis Court 1,000,000.00
Repair/Reopening of Mun. St. Purok Saripadel passing MNHS 1,135,370.00
Campus to Purok Aquino
Purchase of 1 unit 6-wheeler Surplus Garbage Dump truck 1,600,000.00Q
Concreting Additional of Badelles St. 42meters 200,000.00
Repair/Re Blocking of Concrete Pavement 200, 000.00
a. Brgy. Lumbac
b. Brgy. Poblacion
Concreting of Access Road to Agro-Industrial Site 50 meters 250, 000.00
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Construction of Covered Court Poblacion 3,000,000.00
Construction of Comfort Room 2 units at Municipal Gym 150,000.00
Development of Municipal Plaza 200,000.00

Construction of 2nd Floor Multi-Purpose Building Poblacion 300,000.00
Construction of Multi-Purpose Bldg @ Mun. Plaza 100,000.00
Purchase of Lot for Public Cemetery 300,000.00
Repair/Upgrading of Brgy. Multi-Purpose Building ---------
Brgy. Tombador 40,000.00
Brgy. Poblacion 40,000.00
Brgy. Olango 40,000.00
Brgy. Talambo 40,000.00
Brgy. Babasalon 20,000.00
Brgy. Durianon 20,000.00
Brgy. Ilihan 20,000.00
Brgy. Lemoncret 20,000.00
Brgy. Lubo 20,000.00
Brgy. Malabaogan 20,000.00
Brgy. Mapantao 20,000.00
Brgy. Papandayan 20,000.00
Brgy. Panggao 20,000.00
Brgy. Pelingkingan 20,000.00
Brgy. Somiorang 20,000.00
Brgy. Upper Caningag 20,000.00
ENVIRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENT
Solid Waste Management Program 300,000
.00
Figure 31 Crisis Center
Figure 32 National Child Development Center

Figure 33 Table Tennis Court
Figure 34 Newly Constructed Auditorium
Furthermore, in relation to the approved Resolution No. 2 written under the Resolution no.
2017 – 01, Resolution no. 27 – 22 states the approval of the Resolution no. 2017 – 01, Resolution
no. 27 – 22 states the approval of the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) for CY 2017 –
2022 of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte that covers five sectoral development plans: Social,
Economic, Infrastructure and Physical Development, Environmental Management and
Institutional Development.
Figure 35 Operation Center
In addition, Resolution no. 2017 – 35 contained the authorization of Barangay Poblacion

to construct a trading center at the site owned by the local government of Magsaysay, Lanao del
Norte. The resources of this project came from KC-NCDDP LGU-led modality implementation
that will provide enough space for the trading center and will increase the commerce of the
Municipality specifically Barangay Poblacion.
The adoption of an updated Comprehensive Land Use Plan will prevent undue
concentration of population and congestion of structures in a particular area in the municipality
and facilitate the promotion and protection of public health, safety, morals, comfort and general
welfare of the populace this is written under the Resolution no. 2017 – 47 that mainly discuss about
the updating of Resolution no. 2017 – 22.
The series of projects and programs of Mayor Azisah in her early years of her
administration has huge contribution to the development of the Municipality in terms of social,
economic and some mentioned infrastructure. She was able to maintain the peace and order despite
of the diversity of her constituents; also she continues the programs and projects of her husband
that is beneficial for everyone. Mayor Azisah is a great woman and leader of Magsaysay, she
always thought for the betterment of the Municipality regardless of the money it will take for the
projects and programs it will not matter for she always put the development of Magsaysay on top
of everything.
Consequently, Mayor Azisah developed and promoted various programs and projects however
the considered major projects under her administration was concreting of road connecting the
Municipality of Magsaysay to Tubod that this project was started by his husband former Haironie
Omar and when her husband ended its term she continued this project. Concreting the road of the
municipality of Magsaysay made its transportation accessible and it made the Municipal connected
to the central commerce of the Tubod that affects the lives in terms of business and to the
sustainability of the needs of the people in Magsaysay. It is undeniable that the major and minor
projects of Mayor Azisah whether it is a continuing legacy or a new idea it affected the lives of
the people in Magsaysay.
It is unavoidable to encounter a challenges and problems during the leadership of a leader but
during the administration of Mayor Azisah Saranggani Omar was peace and order continuously
exists between the diverse residents of Magsaysay. According to Mayor Azisah Omar there is no
major conflict that she encountered but only minor and it was easily settled by her through due
process of municipal law.
There is no doubt that Mayor Azisah is love by her constituents not because of her major
projects but because of her attitude towards them. Most of the Meranaws and Christians in
Magsaysay would say that she is very generous, approachable, and a good leader.
The researchers interviewed 30 residents that experience the administration of Mayor Azisah
and only 2 of the respondents claimed that the Omars’ failed to implement and maintained peace
and order. According to Margareto Bina(2018) one of the two who claimed that there is no peace
and order in Magsaysay said:
“si Macasamat maoy hari lugar diri sila…… Ang mga anak sad mamalinawon kadyut,
naay samok sila ra japoy hawak, wamay kalinaw diri naay pila ka adlaw naa nasay
pusilon, wala may kalinaw diri, ”
(Macasamat was the king here…. And the administration of his children did not also
achieved peace and order there is still conflict, we don’t know if the next day someone
might killed, that’s why it is not peaceful here)
Although he claimed that there is no peace in Magsaysay up until now but according to him
there is big improvement and development in Magsaysay. But the rest of the informants would
claim that there is really “kalinaw” in Magsaysay during the administration of the Omar Family in
Magsaysay.
As one of the respondents says:
“ko Aya iran kinowa a mayor si Macasamat na mya tagompiya a Magsaysay

na taman din imantu na mapipiya a Magsaysay”
(The day that they summoned Macasamat as mayor in Magsaysay peaceful

was finally obtain and up until now there is still peace and order”
There is really no doubt that the administration of Omars’ in Magsaysay has a positive
impact in the Municipality not only they have maintained the peace and order but they also have
major projects that they implemented and constructed during their terms. There is development
and improvement in Magsaysay on their Administration.
Peace and order is the key of making the municipal develop but it is hard to implement and
maintain especially in Magsaysay that the Christians and Meranaws exist, two different beliefs
and culture. But maintaining the peace and order in Magsaysay is one of the greatest contributions
of this family; in Magsasay living in harmony is the most important aspect to continue the
development of the Municipality.
Chapter IV
Summary and Conclusion
There are already four Omar Mayors in Magsaysay namely Macasamat, Haron, Haironie,
and Azisah Omar. These mayors have developed and improved Magsaysay to what is it today.
Macasamat Omar’s biggest contrition was the separation of Magsaysay from Tangkal
Municipality and the establishment of peace and order of Magsaysay. From the very beginning
Macasamat was already pro – farmers and pro – poor and friendly to the Muslim and Christians.
Along with Florencio Opay, Felipe Lumantas and the tenant farmers from Lala and other
neighboring places established the first settlement in Magsaysay in 1954. And by 1960 Magsaysay
became a Municipal District and Macasamat was appointed as the first mayor in the new
established Municipality. During the height of Ilaga-Baracuda conflicts the family of Macasamat
moved to Marawe. However, upon the request of of the people he was appointed by Pres.
Ferdinand Marcos as Mayor of Magsaysay but after the EDSA revolution he was replaced by
Roberto Lumantas Jr. as an OIC Mayor of Magsaysay. And on 1988 he ran for mayor and won
landslide against his rivals and until 1998 he was undefeated Mayor in Magsaysay. In 1995 Mayors
League Conference Macasamat was awarded as an outstanding mayor of the Philippines. He had
several projects including Health Centers, School Buildings, Public Market, new Municipal
Building and many more. Haron Omar was the successor of Macasamat Omar. His father sees the
potential of his son that’s why he groomed and trained him in becoming a good leader. Haron first
served as councilor and after one term he ran as mayor and won by landslide against his first degree
cousin Atty. Osop Omar. Like his father he has also maintain the peacefulness of Magsaysay and
there are also several projects during his term including the concreting of Poblacion-Lumbac road
(LUMPOB), funding of water system level III, construction of presidential bridge of Bulod river
and many other projects.
In 2007 the term of Haron ended and he was succeeded by his youngest brother Haiorni
Omar. Politics is not new to him since most of his relative was inclined in the world of politics and
before he serve as mayor he also served as councilor in Magsaysay on the year 2004. He was
accordingly being trained by his father and brother. There was no opposition during his
incumbency. It was during his administration that several ambushes happened but it did not last
long for he had made several ways that would prevent from coming again. Like his father and
brother he has also several projects during his term, to which he focused more on repairing and
constructing road in Magsaysay. It is also through his term that there are about 88% of households
have reportedly access to portable water supply. 10 barangays are recorded to have 100%
household coverage. Most water is managed by Barangay Water and Sanitation Associations,
except for barangay Poblacion which is served by the Municipal Water Supply System.
When the term of Haironi ended he was succeeded by his wife, Azisah. Azisah’s parents
are both politicians so it really runs to their blood, that’s why his husband choose her to replace
him for he knew that she has the potential to be a good leader and accordingly it is the resident of
Magsaysay who pushed her to run for mayor because they wanted her to continue the works of his
husband because they knew that she will be guided by his husband. Azisah didn’t disappoint her
supporter for they are really satisfied o her administration. Mayor Azisah developed and promoted
various programs and projects however the considered major projects under her
administration was concreting of road connecting the Municipality of Magsaysay to Tubod that
this project was started by his husband former Haironie Omar and when her husband ended its
term she continued this project. Concreting the road of the municipality of Magsaysay made its
transportation accessible and it made the Municipal connected to the central commerce of the
Tubod that affects the lives in terms of business and to the sustainability of the needs of the people
in Magsaysay.
It is undeniable that through the leadership of the Omars have developed and improved the
municipality they have maintain the peace and order although there are atrocities they had
encountered but it was easily settled by the Omar. The continuous leadership of the Omars’ was
criticized as political dynasty. Political dynasty is a succession of rulers from the same family or
line; it is criticize as a negative form of politics for it only develops graft and corruption. However,
the situation in Magsaysay is far related to the negative political dynasty. The positive feedbacks
of the people in Magsaysay and its developing economy are the proof that the Omars’ are good
leaders that their only intention is to make the Magsaysay a better and well developed
Municipality. The Omars’ were successful in providing the needs of the people in Magsaysay,
many residents will testify that the Omars’ were nobody but good leaders and without them the
Magsaysay would not have been as it is today. It is because of the Omars’ that Magsaysay receives
tons of financial assistance to support various projects and programs’ that provide convenience to
their people.
Conclusion
To conclude, the Omar’s of Magsaysay Lanao Del Norte indeed has the stronghold of the said
municipality. The municipality has been relatively peaceful for more than five decades. The
Omars’ were behind the development of Magsaysay, they prove that joining politics is not about
owning a power to rule the people of the Municipality but it’s about the obligations and
responsibilities to make the people safe and its economy developed. In fact, the succession of the
young Omars’ to their father is an advantage because they continued the legacy of their father. The
Omars’ put Magsaysay into a better situation, a growing economy and the good relationship of the
two existing tribe in the municipality. They were able to maintain the peace and order for it is their
main goal to make Magsaysay a harmonious and safest municipal to live
The Omars’ prove that the criticism of Political dynasty as a form of negative politics is not
applicable to all political family. Omars’ wanted to help Magsaysay from the beginning. In the
present, Mayor Azisah is about to end her term and intend to pass it to Mayor Haron D. Omar,
because of good governance the people paid through supporting the Omar Family as to be their
leader. It was the potential, characteristics and personalities that the people saw in the Omar
Mayors that made them support the family through its entire political career. Their continuity in
service also means continued success of Lanao Del Norte.

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Introduction

Statement of the Problem

Scope and Delimitation

Review of Related Literature

3 Thompson , M. R. (2012). Asia’s Hybrid Dynasty. Asians Affairs, 43(2), 204-220

Asian Survey, 32 (4), 366-379

10 1987 Constitution of the Philippines

Review of Related Study

An undergraduate study entitled “Macalinog A. Bao Sultan Sa Ragayan: A Historical Account

Research Methodology/Data Gathering

At present, in going to Magsaysay, the easiest way of transportation is by riding “payong-

2.2. Historical Background

22 http://laws.chanrobles.com/republicacts/22_republicacts.php?id=2231. Retrieved February 6, 2019

24 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1960/03/22/executive-order-no-389-s-1960/ Retrieved February 6, 2019

Magsaysay was known to be of the well-known outlaw Kalaong, according to Maulana

25 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1965/12/10/executive-order-no-219-s-1965/ Retrieved February 6, 2019

181&catid=90&Itemid=740 Retrieved February 6, 2019

37 https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1960/03/22/executive-order-no-389-s-1960/. Retrieved March 1, 2019

40 Ramon Rebojo Opay

3.1 The Omar Family

3.1.2 Family Background

3.1.2 Late Ex. Mayor Hajji Macasamat Omar (1976-1985) (1988-1998)

Figure 3. A Photo of Hajji Macasamat Omar taken by Jasmin Camia on 2013.

Life of Former Mayor Macasamat Omar

On 1937, he studied in primary years in Kalilangan Elementary School which is a baranggay

Achievements and Legacy

Figure 4. Community Training Center

Figure 6. Public Market

Figure 8. Municipal Auditorium

3.2.2 Mayor Haron Deriposon Omar (1998-2007)

As narrated by his mother Modiana Omar:

She continued saying:

Raising a family is also an indication of a true good leader.

Figure 12. Barangay Health Center of Lumbac

Figure 13. Road Concreting

Figure 15. Smart Telecommunication

Resolution No. 8 S, 2004 contains a request to Honorable Congressman Abdullah D.

2004 approved under Resolution No. 73, S. 2004.

The resolution aforementioned is written under Municipal Ordinance No.1, S. 2004

In relation to environmental consciousness, Haron Omar is promoting cleanliness through

S. 2004 became a Municipal Ordinance No. 4, S. 2005.

Figure 17. Concrete road in Barangay Olango

PROJECTS / PROGRAMS DESCRIPTION

1. Emergency assistance Calamity program

2. Youth program Youth activities

3. Women program Women’s activities

4. Day Care Workers Honoraria

5.. Peace and Order Police & Military program

1. Medical supplies Medicine/medical supply

1.Clean & Green Beautification program

1. Light & Power Electrical maintenance

2. Municipal streets Maintenance of Municipal Streets

3. Agriculture Agricultural Extension Services

4. Back stop of Tennis Court Construction

Maintenance of other 10,866.00

80 An interviewed with Mr.Miranda in his residence in Magsaysay . Interviewed November 14 2018

4.4 Former Mayor Haironie Deriposon Omar(2007-2015)

86 Copy on Oath of Office of Mr. Haironi Omar

Figure 21. Muna-muna Checkpoint

Name of Projects Amount

“Kana si Haironi mosuporta gyud na sa amua nay kas a tung hapit na ma

BuB – LIST OF PRIORITY PROJECTS IDENTIFIED BY LPRAT FOR FY 2016

4.5 Mayor Azisah Omar (2016 to present)