MILF: MILF information drive on peace framework gathers thousands at Camp Darapanan

From the MILF Website (Nov 24): MILF information drive on peace framework gathers thousands at Camp Darapanan

 

The information and education campaign (IEC) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Central Committee (MILF CC) a couple of days ago at Camp Darapanan on the peace framework reached with the Government of the Philippines (GPH) had lured more than 80,000 participants. Ghazali Jaafar, First Vice Chairman of MILF, who led the information drive, said the strength of the participants that came was much more than the expected. “We really did not expect the participants could reach to approximately 80,000,” Jaafar told a news writer of luwaran.com, adding that “Darapanan and the MILF leadership did expect and prepare for such a big size of participants.” “We believed that was an expression of overwhelming support of the Bangsamoro people to the GPH – MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro which was signed in Malacanang Palace last October 15, 2012,” the Vice chairman stressed. Jaafar said it is very important and crucial to have a very clear and proper understanding amongst the Bangsamoro people, our people on the GPH – MILF Framework Agreement in order to share common expectations and challenges. The participants are supposed to be only military commanders from base commanders to platoon leaders, and political chairmen from provincial down to barangay levels from the provinces of Maguindanao, Cotabato and Saranggani. However, their huge civilian supporters and sympathizers had asked to be allowed to take part though bearing themselves their own expenses. "We owe a lot to our people for the popular and overwhelming support and we believe that they will continue to inspire us in working on and meeting the challenges ahead," Jaafar said. Since the start of November, the MILF leadership had already conducted more than 20 IECs all over mainland Mindanao, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi. A staff of Vice Chairman Jaafar informed that the IEC and peace advocacy of the MILF in Palawan will be conducted by December. The Vice Chairman will lead the High Delegation of the MILF to a Grand Peace Advocacy and Kanduli on the GPH – MILF Framework Agreement to be held at Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao this coming November 27, 2012.

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2952:milf-information-drive-on-peace-framework-gathers-thousands-at-camp-darapanan&catid=31:general&Itemid=41

Abu Sayyaf splinter cell behind kidnap of cousins

From the New Straits Times (Nov 23): Abu Sayyaf splinter cell behind kidnap of cousins
NO RANSOM YET: Police believe victims will be handed over to militants' leaders

KUALA LUMPUR: THE abduction of two cousins from an oil palm plantation in Lahad Datu, Sabah, last week was believed to have been the work of Abu Sayyaf militants. It is believed that a splinter cell from the Abu Sayyaf group pulled off the kidnapping and that they were currently hiding with the victims on a secluded island before handing them over to the militants' leaders. "Initial reports revealed that the splinter cell is making its way back to the Abu Sayyaf hideout in the southern Philippines," an intelligence source disclosed. "The splinter cell is only responsible for abducting victims. Ransom demands will be made by a more established group." Although the incident occurred about a week ago, the victims' families had yet to receive any ransom demands.
The source said Philippine authorities had been alerted to the case and were expected to help locate the two. In the incident, five gunmen stormed an oil palm plantation in the Felda Sahabat area, about 110km from Lahad Datu. The gunmen, clad in army fatigues, abducted a 33-year-old plantation manager and his 25-year-old assistant, who is also his cousin. The cousins were inspecting a swiftlet house in the plantation with two workers when they were approached by their abductors. The two, along with two other workers, were taken to a beach about 2km away near Kampung Manakayan, before being forced into a boat. The gunmen released the workers before speeding off to the Celebes Sea. The authorities had described the abduction as well planned. "The gunmen knew the area well and had done their homework before carrying out the abduction," the source said. The last reported abduction from the east coast of Sabah was in 2010 when two seaweed farmers were taken from Sebangkat Island off Semporna. The two farmers were taken by gunmen to Tawi-Tawi Island and released unharmed in December that year. A ransom was paid to secure their release. In 2003, seven foreigners were taken hostage from a resort located in an oil palm estate in Silam, Lahad Datu. In 2000, two abductions took place when the Abu Sayyaf kidnapped 23 people, including tourists, from Sipadan. In the second incident, they took three Malaysians from Pulau Pandanan off Semporna.

http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/abu-sayyaf-splinter-cell-behind-kidnap-of-cousins-1.175505

Davao tribesmen flee village due to NPA threats, says military

From the Mindano Examiner (Nov 24): Davao tribesmen flee village due to NPA threats, says military

Dozens of tribesmen in Davao City in the southern Philippines have fled their homes following threats by communist rebels, the military said Friday. It said New People’s Army rebels have accused tribesmen of passing information to the military about the communist group. At least 17 indigenous families have sought safe refuge in the village of Marilog. The rebels, led by Leoncio Pitao, were also forcing the villagers to join anti-government rallies to protest the presence of government troops in the area, according to an army statement sent to the Mindanao Examiner. “We see how the NPAs jeopardize the safety of these families who are living peacefully in the area,” said Lt. Col. Edgar Nigos, commander of the 84th Infantry Battalion. He said villagers should denounce the presence of rebels in the area instead of the military. “It is our mandate to protect the people and not to harm them. That’s why we would like to encourage everyone specially the government leaders to condemn the presence of the NPAs so that we can all live peacefully,” he said. There was no immediate statement from the NPA, which is fighting for the establishment of a separate Maoist state in the country.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121123113303

Philippine troops capture Sayyaf rebel in 2002 kidnap of Christian missionaries

From the Mindano Examiner (Nov 24): Philippine troops capture Sayyaf rebel in 2002 kidnap of Christian missionaries

Philippine authorities captured an Abu Sayyaf rebel in his hideout in Zamboanga City for the 2002 kidnappings of Christian missionaries in the southern province of Sulu, officials said Saturday. Officials said the rebel, who was only identified by his alias Tuma, is implicated to the kidnappings of 6 members of the Jehova’s Witness in Patikul town. “The operation was launched by combined elements from the (Army’s) Task Force-Zamboanga, the Air Force and Zamboanga police and this resulted to the arrest of Tuma who is wanted for kidnappings, among other charges,” Capt. Alberto Caber, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, told the Mindanao Examienr. He said the rebel was captured in his hideout in the village of Tulungatung on Friday after security forces tracked him down. Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, the regional army commander, said the capture of Tuma was the result of the Oplan Bayanihan, a codename for the government’s Internal Peace and Security Plan. “As long as there are strong IPSP supporters in our localities, we are confident in hunt against lawless group,” Cruz said. In September, army soldiers in nearby Zamboanga del Norte province also captured two Abu Sayyaf rebels implicated in the kidnapping of 21 people, including three US citizens, from a posh Filipino resort in the 2001. The two men – Imam Pai and Aling – were captured in their hideout in Labason town. The duo was among those who kidnapped holidaymakers, among them a US missionary couple Martin and Gracia Burnham, and California man Guillermo Sobero, in Dos Palmas resort in Palawan province. Sobero was eventually killed and Martin Burnham was shot during a US-led military rescue operation in Zamboanga del Norte. Burnham’s wife was rescued, but wounded after being hit by a stray bullet in the fire fight between troops and rebels. Authorities have linked the Abu Sayyaf to the spate of terrorism and kidnappings in the southern Philippines.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121123222633

Suspected JI member killed in Marawi: sources

From ABS-CBN (Nov 23): Suspected JI member killed in Marawi: sources

A suspected member of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) was killed in an encounter with security forces in Marawi City. Based on ABS-CBN News sources in the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the military, the encounter between members of the Philippine Army and PNP Special Action Forces and a group of suspected terrorists took place on Thursday. Earlier Friday, the Philippine Army issued a press release confirming the arrest of suspected JI member Ustadz Sanusi or ‘Ishak’ at the Mindanao State University compound in Marawi City Thursday night. Ishak was among the 7 suspected members of the terrorist group authorities wanted to arrest.  But after a few minutes, the press release was revoked, saying it was President Aquino who should announce the news. During the last week of October, a document was disseminated to police stations in Metro Manila by the Regional Intelligence Division of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO). It detailed the alleged plans of the leader of a JI terrorist cell in the Philippines, Zulkifli Bin Hir alias ‘Marwan’ and Basit Usman, a bomb expert of the Abu Sayyaf. They agreed that Marwan would conduct bombings in western Mindanao while Usman would be responsible for central Mindanao. The intended targets: churches, malls and public markets. Operatives would also be sent to Metro Manila, who would plant improvised explosive devices in garbage areas. NCRPO chief Leonardo Espina, meanwhile, downplayed the threat. “Wala tayong natatanggap na specific or any imminent threat so far,” he said.
Still, the entire PNP has been tasked to take note of the report and make sure the plans are not carried out.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/11/23/12/suspected-ji-member-killed-marawi-sources

Soldier hurt, 190 families evacuated as troops clash with NPA rebs in Davao del Norte

From GMANews (Nov 23): Soldier hurt, 190 families evacuated as troops clash with NPA rebs in Davao del Norte

One soldier was reported injured while 190 families were evacuated following a series of clashes between government troops and New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Davao del Norte Thursday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said late Friday. In its report, the NDRRMC said the clashes occurred at 12:30 p.m. Thursday at Sitio Mamaon in Barangay Pinamuno; Sitio Mamalian in Barangay Datu Balong; and Purok Sentro in Barangay Monte Dujali in San Isidro, Davao del Norte. The NDRRMC said 300 members of the NPA had been seen at Barangay Monte Dujali conducting "checkpoints" and "pulong-pulong" (meetings) with residents. Injured in the encounter was an unidentified soldier from the Army's 10th Infantry Battalion. The encounter had been between the Army's 60th Infantry Battalion and the NPA. Evacuated from their homes were:

• 73 families from Barangay Pinamuno
• 42 families from Barangay Datu Balong
• 75 families from Barangay Monte Dujali

The NDRRMC said the affected families were brought to their respective barangay halls.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/283593/news/regions/soldier-hurt-190-families-evacuated-as-troops-clash-with-npa-rebs-in-davao-del-norte

Japanese spotted with NPAs

From the Manila Standard Today (Nov 24): Japanese spotted with NPAs

TWO Japanese nationals were reportedly seen in the company of New People’s Army rebels, while an Indonesian national who allegedly had links with the dreaded Al-Queda terror group of Osama Bin Laden was arrested but later died at a hospital when combined police and military operatives stormed his hideout on Thursday. The Japanese nationals were seen with the rebels under the Benito Tesorio command, which clashed with Army troopers in the hinterlands of Isabela province on Saturday. The firefight resulted in the death of six soldiers and five rebels after some 30 insurgents waylaid members of the 52nd Division Reconnaisance Company in Mabayyad villagae in San Guillermo town in Isabela province on Nov. 17. Sources said the Japanese nationals were members of a non-governmental organization and their whereabouts were now being tracked by pursuing military forces. It wasn’t clear, however, if the Japanese nationals were being held hostage by the communists. Aside from the Japanese, three Dutch nationals were also seen with the rebels as soldiers continued their pursuit of the rebels toward a forested area in Mabayyad village, leaving five dead comrades. The identities of the Japanese and the three Dutch nationals were not immediately known, but the military was exhausting efforts to determine the whereabouts of the foreigners. Army Captain Alberto Caber, spokesman of the Ist Infantry Division in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur, identified the alleged Indonesian terrorist as Ustadz Sanusi alias Ishak, a member of the Jemaah Islamiya and an Islamic Scholar. Caber said Sanusi sustained a gunshot wound when he tried to escape from the combined operatives of the National Police’s Special Action Force and military intelligence units.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2012/11/24/japanese-spotted-with-npas/

1 killed, P9-M equipment burned by NPA in Aurora

From the Daily Tribune (Nov 24): 1 killed, P9-M equipment burned by NPA in Aurora

A civilian was killed while a policeman and two other civilians were wounded while P9-million worth of heavy equipment went up in smoke after communist New People’s Army (NPA) attacked a construction site in Aurora province yesterday. Lt. Tala Servidad, spokesman of the Army’s 7th Infantry Division (ID), said that an undetermined number of heavily armed NPA rebels burned down a backhoe and a dump truck owned by Palacios Constructions near Sitio Dimani, Barangay Villa in Ma. Aurora town at around 9 a.m. Combined elements of the Army’s 48th Infantry Battalion (IB) and local police responded to the arson incident but were ambushed by the NPA band. “The NPAs were reportedly extorting money from the construction company,” Servidad said. Palacios Constructions is contracted by the government to build a road network that will connect Metro Manila to Aurora province. “The backhoe and dump truck (cost) P9 million,” said Servidad. Brig. Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, commanding general of the 7th ID, immediately ordered pursuit operations against the NPA band as he condemned the attack. “We condemn this terroristic attack against a construction company. This tragic incident came when peace and development in Central Luzon (have returned),” said Catapang.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/7264-1-killed-p9-m-equipment-burned-by-npa-in-aurora

 

 

Reds demand complete list of wanted comrades

From  the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 24): Reds demand complete list of wanted comrades

The head of the communist-led National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) on Saturday demanded the government to publicly disclose the supposed list of the 235 alleged rebel leaders carrying P467-million reward for their capture. “The NDFP wants to know those names and identities on the complete list because we want to ascertain whether a judicial warrant of arrest is the basis of the listing of every one or not, and whether or not there is arbitrariness or not,” Luis Jalandoni said in an emailed statement sent to INQUIRER. According to Jalandoni, the previous listings of alleged wanted communist leaders under various administrations have been characterized by a lack of prior judicial warrants of arrest and by arbitrariness. “The Aquino government can use the list as a death list for the use of death squads if it does not release all the listed names for public scrutiny. Keeping nearly all such names or most of the 235 names in secrecy and under the fog is a license for harassment, abductions and extrajudicial killings,” Jalandoni warned. The cash figures were contained in a joint order by the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of National Defense, which was reportedly released by DILG Secretary Manuel Roxas. .....

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/312307/reds-demand-complete-list-of-wanted-comrades

Cop dead, civilian wounded as rebels attack Aurora construction firm

From the Philippine Star (Nov 23): Cop dead, civilian wounded as rebels attack Aurora construction firm

One policeman died, while a civilian was injured after leftist rebels attacked today a construction firm in Aurora. Lt. Tala Servidad, spokeswoman of the Army's 7th Infantry Division, said New People's Army rebels went to Villa village in Ma. Aurora town and burned a backhoe and a dump truck owned by A.P. Palacios Construction. The company has been contracted by the government to build a road that will connect Aurora province to Metro Manila. Servidad said the rebels attacked Palacios because the owner refuses to pay the revolutionary tax. She said that soldiers from the Army's 48th Infantry Battalion and local policemen went to Villa village to secure the company. But they were attacked by rebels, who killed a policeman and wounded the civilian in the area.

http://www.philstar.com/breaking-news/2012/11/23/872001/cop-dead-civilian-wounded-rebels-attack-aurora-construction-firm

Neg Occ. gets more CAFGUs

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 24): Neg Occ. gets more CAFGUs

The Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade will soon deploy 120 Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit members in Negros Occidental. Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday said the 120 new CAFGUs will replace those who had been either dismissed, or resigned from the military service. The 120 CAFGUs graduated Wednesday from basic military training at Camp Major Nelson Gerona in Murcia, which included an orientation on the human rights law and International Humanitarian Law. Lactao reminded the new CAFGU members to remain disciplined. CAFGUs serve as the territorial forces of the Philippine Army in barangays under the influence of the New People’s Army, or being threatened by rebel expansion, he said.  About 1,500 CAFGUs assisting the Philippine Army in their peace and security campaign in Negros island, are supervised by the 12th Infantry (CADRE) Battalion. Lactao stressed the importance of CAFGUs in their security campaign because they are “indigenous” in nature and can combat the NPA rebels who are acknowledged to have an edge in territorial familiarity over Army soldiers.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/November/24/topstory8.htm

Abu Sayyaf member, suspect in 2002 kidnapping, arrested

From InterAksyon (Nov 24): Abu Sayyaf member, suspect in 2002 kidnapping, arrested

A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a suspect in the 2002 kidnapping of five Jehova's Witnesses in Mindanao, was arrested Friday morning by a composite team of soldiers and policemen in Barangay Tulongatong, Zamboanga City, the military said Saturday. Capt. Alberto Caber, spokesman of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, identified the arrested bandit as a certain alias "Tuma". Tuma was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Pasig City Regional Trial Court (RTC)-Branch 266 Judge Toribio E. Ilao Jr. "Tuma was involved in the kidnapping of five members of the Jehova's Witness in Barangay Darayaan Parang, Patikul, Sulu on August 20, 2002," Caber said. Tuma was the second ASG bandit to be arrested this week in line with a government campaign against members of the ASG who were involved in high-profile kidnap-for-ransom activities in Mindanao over the last two decades. The Al Qaeda-linked ASG operates in Sulu and Basilan. Last Thursday, alias Abu Jaid or Ajing was arrested in Barangay Port Area, Isabela City, Basilan. The miltiary said Ajing was involved in the beheading of a couple of workers of the Golden Harvest Plantation in 2001 in Barangay Talairan, Lantawan, Basilan.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/48806/abu-sayyaf-member-suspect-in-2002-kidnapping-arrested

NDF formally protests hike in bounty for rebel leaders

From InterAksyon (Nov 24): NDF formally protests hike in bounty for rebel leaders

The National Democratic Front said it has formally written the government peace panel condemning the increase in the bounties for the capture of 235 communist rebel leaders. The government recently announced the issuance of Joint Order No. 14-2012 by the Departments of National Defense and of Interior and Local Government raising to P466.88 million the rewards leading to the capture of the rebel officers..... In a statement, the NDF said Luis Jalandoni, chairman of its negotiating panel, wrote his government counterpart, Alex Padilla, informing him that Austria is covered by the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees, which protects both sides’ negotiators, consultants and other personnel involved in peace talks, from arrest and prosecution. “To list and target our consultants is an attack on the peace process,” Jalandoni said. “The NDFP wants to ensure that the JASIG is respected and not violated.” The peace talks between the communists and government has been stalled for the last few years over the NDF’s demand that jailed rebel leaders it claims are consultants in the talks be released. The NDF said Jalandoni also demanded that government make public the complete list of rebel leaders for whom the bounties were raised “if the purpose of the Joint Order is to seek the help of the public in giving information leading to the arrest of the listed persons.” “The NDFP wants to know those names and identities in the complete list because we want to ascertain whether a judicial warrant of arrest is the basis of the listing of every one or not, and whether or not there is arbitrariness or not,” Jalandoni added, claiming that “previous listings under various administrations have been characterized by a lack of prior judicial warrants of arrest and by arbitrariness.” He also worried that “the Aquino government can use the list as a death list for the use of death squads if it does not release all the listed names for public scrutiny.” “Keeping nearly all such names or most of the 235 names in secrecy and under the fog is a license for harassment, abductions and extrajudicial killings,” he said. The concern apparently stemmed from the DND’s involvement in the issuance of the Joint Order, which he described as “anomalous and ominous.”,“The police, not the military, are the peace officers in charge of arrests under the administration of the DILG and guidance of the Department of Justice,” Jalandoni pointed out.

Police looking at three possible motives in foiled bomb attack in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24): Police looking at three possible motives in foiled bomb attack in Sultan Kudarat

Police authorities and investigators in Sultan Kudarat and in Maguindanao are looking at three possible motives in foiled bombing attempt here Friday. All police forces in the province have been placed on alert following the discovery of an improvised explosive device (IED), the second in three days in Sultan Kudarat. Senior Superintendent Rolen Balquin, Sultan Kudarat police director, said the attacker who remained unidentified to date could be trying to create a scenario in the province. Senior Supt. Jaime Pido, Maguindanao police director, was convinced that the Improvised explosive device fashioned from two 60 mm and two 81 mm mortars could be intended for Maguindanao Governor Esmael Toto Mangudadatu. Mangudadatu himself claimed he was convinced he was indeed the target since his convoy would surely pass the road where the IED was discovered. But Balquin said that theory was one of the many. “There could be some groups who wanted to discredit Sultan Kudarat, a very peaceful province,” Balquin said. “There could be some groups who wanted to make it appear that the police are remiss in their duties,” he added. At least six explosions have been recorded in Sultan Kudarat the past three weeks. These explosions occurred in Tacurong City, President Quirino and in Isulan, all in Sultan Kudarat. However, Balquin said one of these was work related while the other was believed to be the handiwork of extortion gangs preying on public transport plying the Tacurong City-Gen. Santos routes. The third theory the police are looking into was the involvement of Jemaah Islamiya terror group which, according to police and military intelligence agencies, was to sow terror in Mindanao and in National Capital Region. One suspected JI member was killed in a shootout in Marawi City Thursday while police special forces were to serve warrants of arrest to seven suspected JI members. Ustadz Sanusi, an Indonesian, who also used the name Ishak, died in a hospital in Marawi City after sustaining gunshot wounds during a pursuit operation launched by police and military personnel, according to Capt. Alberto Caber, a spokesman for the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division. Caber said Sanusi, who was wanted for arson and murder, was among seven suspected Jemaah Islamiyah figures being hunted by the authorities. State forces seized a hand grenade and an Armalite rifle from Sanusi at the time of his death. Following the discovery of a powerful IED, Balquin said all police forces in Sultan Kudarat, especially Tacurong City and Isulan town, have been placed on heightened alert.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474309

NGOs to help GPH-MILF clear Mindanao conflict areas of unexploded ordnance

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24): NGOs to help GPH-MILF clear Mindanao conflict areas of unexploded ordnance

Following the signing of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro, the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) and the Foundation Suisse de Déminage France (FSD) will work with the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to reduce the threat from Landmines and Unexploded Ordnances (UXO) in conflict-affected areas. Through the joint efforts of PCBL and FSD, the action will finally give effect to the Parties' agreement entitled “Guidelines for the Implementation of the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines-Fondation Suisse De Deminage (PCBL-FSD) Project Pursuant to the Joint Statement of the GRP-MILF Peace Panels Dated 15 November 2007” signed on the 5th of May 2010 in Malaysia. The project will identify and clear suspected hazardous areas in 21 municipalities in Maguindanao, Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, and Lanao del Sur covering a total of 450,629 hectares inhabited by 814,651 people or indirect beneficiaries, according to PCBL national coordinator Alfredo Ferrariz-Lubang in a statement. He said if 15 percent of these affected municipalities are found to be suspected hazardous areas, the project will potentially release 67,594 hectares of land for increased livelihood for 122,198 direct beneficiaries. Besides increased economic opportunities, the project will free the beneficiaries from the fear of being killed or injured by these unfortunate relics of war. In the Philippines, 496 casualties have been identified from Landmines, Explosive Remnants of War, (ERW) or Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) since 1999, with 34 casualties for 2011 including 14 children.....

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474341

MILF vows to select well-balanced composition of Transition Commission members

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 24): MILF vows to select well-balanced composition of Transition Commission members

Learning from previous experience, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Saturday assured it will only name highly qualified and truly representative members of the Transition Commission. “It will be known by middle of December. We will select the participants with extra care,” Mohammad Ameen, chair of the MILF secretariat, said in a statement.... The Transition Commission, which is composed of 15 members including the chairman, eight of whom will be named and recommended by the MILF, has three major functions: To draft the Basic Law, to proposed amendments to the Philippine Constitution and to coordinate, if necessary, development projects in the areas of Bangsamoro. Eight of the members including the chairman will be nominated by the MILF and seven to be nominated by the government. Ameen said the MILF nominees to the TC will only be released once President Benigno S. Aquino III has issued an Executive Order creating the Commission. Asked to describe the eight MILF TC members, Ameen made the assurance that the composition will be well-balanced and representative of the major blocs in the MILF and tribes in Mindanao. He said the MILF TC members will include one woman and one member of the indigenous tribes. Ameen said that as early as October, the MILF has already shortlisted some 15 names which was trimmed to just eight names early this month. “We never allowed recommendations to disrupt our selection process,” Ameen explained, adding that a selection committee was organized to look closely at the qualifications of each nominee. “Recommendation is no-no in our process of selection for the TC,” he stressed. He said only two qualifications were considered in determining who will make it to the magic eight: one is dedication, commitment, and loyalty to the cause, and two, capability to discharge the duties and responsibilities required of the job.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=474310

1 killed, 2 wounded in Army-NPA clash in Aurora

From the Philippine Star (Nov 23): 1 killed, 2 wounded in Army-NPA clash in Aurora

One person was killed and two others were wounded after suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) staged atrocities against a construction firm in Aurora on Thursday.

Army reports said suspected rebels with high-powered firearms had burned a backhoe and a dump truck owned by Palacios Constructions in barangay Villa in Ma. Aurora town at about 9 a.m. 1Lt. Tala Servidad, spokesperson of the Army’s 7th division, said the NPA rebels were believed to be extorting money from the company, which is concreting a road that connects Metro Manila to Aurora. Responding troop from the Philippine National Police and the Army’s 48th battalion were fired upon by the rebels, resulting in a firefight. One person was killed while two others, including a policeman, were wounded during the incident. The identities of the fatality and the wounded persons were not immediately available. Servidad said the burned construction equipment cost about P9 million. Brig. Gen. Gregorio Catapang, Jr., commander of the Army’s 7th division, has ordered pursuit operations in the area. "We condemn this terroristic attacks against construction company. This tragic incident came when peace and development in Central Luzon is on the fast lane," Catapang said.

 

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/11/23/871833/1-killed-2-wounded-army-npa-clash-aurora

PMA has new superintendent

From the Philippine Star (Nov 23): PMA has new superintendent

The Philippine Military Academy (PMA), the country’s premier military officers’ training institution, has a new chief – Lt. Gen. Irineo Espino. Outgoing PMA superintendent Maj. Gen. Nonato Peralta Jr. turned over his post to Espino in a ceremony presided over by AFP vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Noel Coballes here yesterday. Espino, a member of PMA Class Matapat of 1979, was the Armed Forces’ inspector general before he was named to the PMA post. Peralta, also a member of PMA Class 1979, will take over as the new commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division based in Tanay, Rizal, replacing Maj. Gen. Eduardo del Rosario.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/11/24/871949/pma-has-new-superintendent

Suspected JI Islamist dead after police, military raid

From the Philippine Star (Nov 23): 1 killed, 2 wounded in Army-NPA clash in Aurora

One person was killed and two others were wounded after suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) staged atrocities against a construction firm in Aurora on Thursday.

Army reports said suspected rebels with high-powered firearms had burned a backhoe and a dump truck owned by Palacios Constructions in barangay Villa in Ma. Aurora town at about 9 a.m. 1Lt. Tala Servidad, spokesperson of the Army’s 7th division, said the NPA rebels were believed to be extorting money from the company, which is concreting a road that connects Metro Manila to Aurora. Responding troop from the Philippine National Police and the Army’s 48th battalion were fired upon by the rebels, resulting in a firefight. One person was killed while two others, including a policeman, were wounded during the incident. The identities of the fatality and the wounded persons were not immediately available. Servidad said the burned construction equipment cost about P9 million. Brig. Gen. Gregorio Catapang, Jr., commander of the Army’s 7th division, has ordered pursuit operations in the area. "We condemn this terroristic attacks against construction company. This tragic incident came when peace and development in Central Luzon is on the fast lane," Catapang said.

 

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/11/23/871833/1-killed-2-wounded-army-npa-clash-aurora

BIFM wants death penalty for Maguindanao massacre perpetrators

From Rappler (Nov 22): BIFM wants death penalty for Maguindanao massacre perpetrators

The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM) could help capture the suspects in the brutal Maguindanao massacre. “If the families of the victims would come to us and request our service then we will think about what we can do for them,” BIFM spokesperson Abu Misry Mama said on Thursday, November 22. Three years since the country's worst case of election violence, 93 out of the 196 suspects remain at large. Mama said BIFM could mobilize its fighters if the victims' relatives will ask for the group’s help and intervention. The rebel spokesman recognized that the government may not welcome their offer. Although he refused to divulge the process the BIFM would follow if they capture the suspects, Mama said they will definitely mete out the death penalty for those proven guilty of participating in the massacre. “If they are guilty then definitely it would be death penalty for them,” Mama said. Mama said they understand the frustration of the victims' relatives because of the long-drawn-out trial. “The justice system in this country is very slow. The Philippine National Police is also very slow that many of the suspects are still at large,” Mama said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/16616-bifm-wants-death-penalty-for-maguindanao-massacre-perpetrators

'Islam changed life of terror suspect'

From Rappler (Nov 23): 'Islam changed life of terror suspect'

Because he grew up Catholic, the decision of Ralph Kenneth De Leon to convert to Islam was initially "a source of friction between him and his family," but his father would later discover its "positive influence" on him. In an exclusive report aired on ANC (ABS-CBN News Channel) on Friday, November 23, ABS-CBN reporter Steve Angeles gave viewers a glimpse of the life of the 23-year-old Filipino suspected terrorist who allegedly planned to join al-Qaeda and the Taliban in their plot to kill Americans and bomb US bases abroad, including the Philippines. De Leon was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), along with 3 others, on Sunday, November 18. He was supposedly trying to leave the US for Afghanistan. He is now in solitary confinement in a detention facility in California. Off-camera, ABS-CBN's Angeles was able to interview De Leon's father - who refused to give his name but allowed ABS-CBN to take video of their home and his son's room in California. "Though it became a source of friction between him and his family, Ralph's father said they agreed to respect each other's belief. Mr De Leon noticed that after years of a typical youth life, which included partying and late nights, Islam brought a calm and disciplined side of Ralph," Angeles reported. "They made it a rule that religion would not be discussed in the house. They wanted him to be Catholic. They let him do his practice. It made him quiet. He came home early and prayed a lot … They didn't see any violent behavior or terrorist-related activity," Angeles added. Mr De Leon was also able to visit his son in the detention facility. "He remains in high spirits," Angeles reported.  De Leon's family migrated from Laguna to the United States in 2002. He is a permanent US resident but remains a Filipino citizen with a valid Filipino passport. Angeles said the family didn't see signs of extremism from the young De Leon as claimed by the FBI. According to reports in US media, Ralph expressed extremist points of view on his Facebook page and in conversations on Skype. FBI undercover agents were able to join the Skype conversations. FBI raided De Leon's house and confiscated his computer, clothes and documents, among others. De Leon also did not tell his family about any trip to Afghanistan, ABS-CBN's Angeles said. They thought he was going to Turkey for a Muslim pilgrimage, Angeles reported. "Their message to me was - as far as they knew and from what they saw - their son lived a normal life and was a typical college student who had an interest ina specific culture and in this case that culture was Islam," Angeles reported. He was a popular kid, a student leader, and excelled in sports, Angeles said in his report.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/16671-islam-changed-life-of-terror-suspect

Military says Indonesian militant killed

From Rappler (Nov 23): Military says Indonesian militant killed

The Philippine Army said on Friday, November 23, that it had killed an Indonesian Islamic militant allegedly involved in the 2005 beheading of three Christian schoolgirls. Philippine Army regional spokesman Captain Alberto Caber identified the militant as Ustadz Sanusi, one of seven members of the extremist Jemaah Islamiyah group believed to have sought refuge in Mindanao. Caber said Sanusi was shot dead in Marawi City late Thursday while fleeing a hideout that was being raided by police and military forces. "When the troops arrived to arrest him, there was a commotion. He was chased and someone fired. It was Ustadz Sanusi who was hit. He was rushed to a hospital but he died," Caber told AFP. The Indonesian embassy in Manila declined to comment on the Marawi raid. The Jemaah Islamiyah, a Southeast Asian extremist group, is blamed for a string of attacks including the 2002 bombings in the Indonesian resort of Bali which killed 202 people. Regional intelligence analysts claim that Sanusi played a major role in the beheading of three Christian schoolgirls in the restive Indonesian town of Poso in 2005.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/16677-military-says-indonesian-militant-killed

N. Samar to receive P184-million fund for 2013 infra projects under Pamana

From the Philippine Informatin Agency (Nov 23): N. Samar to receive P184-million fund for 2013 infra projects under Pamana

The province of Northern Samar will receive P184 million from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace process (OPAPP) for Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Pamana) projects in 2013. This was learned from the Provincial Information Office. Among the projects are: 2013 Pamana Pillar 3 (Addressing Regional Development) for concreting of the Mondragon-Silvino Lubos road section worth P100 million; and construction and improvement of Silvino Lubos-Lope de Vega road measuring 12 kilometers with a cost of P84 million, said OPAPP Assistant Secretary Howard Cafugauanm, in a letter early this month to Governor Paul Daza. These projects came out as a result of a “multi-stakeholders workshop” dubbed Mainstreaming Peace and Development in Local Governance Planning held March 21 to 22, 2012 at Calbayog City. Other projects include 2013 Pamana Pillar 2 (Establishing Resilient Communities), where at total of P35.1-million Peace and Development Fund will be allocated to 117 Barangays from 4 municipalities of the province. Each barangay will receive P300,000. The projects will be implemented through the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS-Pamana). The four municipalities (and the number of barangays under them) that will be allotted funds are Las Navas (53), Lope de Vega (22), San Roque (16) and Silvino Lubos (26). Last September 19, 2012, the first Pamana road project in Northern Samar was inaugurated.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1261353638594

Peace council strengthens means to defeat insurgency in Region 8

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23): Peace council strengthens means to defeat insurgency in Region 8

The Regional Peace and Order Council in Region 8 (RPOC-8), under the chairmanship of Governor Paul R. Daza of Northern Samar, has taken steps to continue peaceful means of defeating insurgency in the region particularly in remote conflict-affected areas. Daza revealed that being a recipient of P12-million worth of Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Pamana) which is the government’s peace and development framework to respond and strengthen peace building, reconstruction and development in conflict-affected areas, his constituents are assured that peaceful means will continue to be employed instead of using militarization in these areas. Daza further added that the 801st Philippine Army engineering brigade will help build infrastructure project such as buildings, bridges and farm-to-market roads in conflict-affected areas to guarantee that the target date of accomplishment will be realized and development programs will immediately restored to such areas and long lasting peace will soon be achieved. The Pamana has three pillars for sustainable peace and development, first; building foundation for peace, second; establishing resilient communities, and third; addressing regional development. Emy Bonifacio, Office of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process (OPAPP) identified conflict-affected areas: 23 percent of municipalities in Samar, 17 percent in Northern Samar, and 16 percent in Eastern Samar. Bonifacio added that 25 percent of barangays are affected in Northern Samar, 14 percent in Eastern Samar, and 13 percent in Samar. Eastern Samar was also a recipient of Pamana check worth P16 million while Northern Samar got a check worth P16 million during the RPOC-8 meeting held recently.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1991353638172

Education key to Bangsamoro prosperity - ARMM official

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 23): Education key to Bangsamoro prosperity - ARMM official

The 10-year-olds of today are the teachers and professionals 10 years from now. These children, said Assemblywoman Samira Gutoc, Tuesday, will form the workforce who benefited from the professional system instituted by the Reform ARMM government of today. Gutoc congratulated the Department of Education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in launching the six-year Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao-ARMM (BEAM-ARMM) program Tuesday, Nov. 20. Gutoc, who represents the women sector in the Regional Legislative Assembly (RLA), ARMM and Chairperson, Committee on Education, Arts, Culture and Sports Development of the Assembly said that she is happy to note that DepEd-ARMM is concerned with the quality education of the youth. As a former youth leader, Gutoc was invited in the recently- concluded Regional Youth Congress in ARMM who said she witnessed the enthusiasm of the youth during the congress. “I assert that priority must be given to children and the youth because they constitute the future leadership and breadwinners of clans. They are also the majority in number. I am also inspired by my exposure to industrialized countries such as Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore which invested in the education of the youth and thus produced a talented workforce,” Gutoc said.....

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1651353566716

Joint Task Force GenSan, 1002nd Brigade commanders get new heads

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23): Joint Task Force GenSan, 1002nd Brigade commanders get new heads

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has designated two top Army officials in southern and central Mindanao to lead its security units and operations in the city and neighboring areas. Maj. Gen. Ariel Bernardo, commander of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division (ID), said Army Colonels Normal Flores and Manuel Ramos are the new commanders of the Army’s 1002nd Brigade and the Joint Task Force GenSan, respectively. He said Flores and Ramos formally assumed their new posts effective last Wednesday following simple turnover rites held at the 1002nd Brigade headquarters in Camp Agaab, Barangay Pulatana in Malungon, Sarangani. Flores replaced Col. Glorioso Miranda, who was assigned as assistant commandant of the AFP Command and General Staff College in Fort Bonifacio. Prior to his new assignment, Flores was commander of the Davao City-based Task Force Davao for nine months. Ramos, on the other hand, replaced Col. Joselito Kakilala, who was designated as the new brigade commander of the Army’s 903rd Infantry Brigade based in Castilla town in Sorsogon. Ramos, who headed the Philippines side of the Combined Armed Forces during the United States-Philippines Balikatan Exercises in 2011, was previously assigned as deputy commander of the 1002nd Brigade. Bernardo lauded Miranda for the 1002nd Brigades accomplishments during his stint as its commander. Among the 1002nd Brigades major accomplishments was the successful conduct of six brigade operations against the New People’s Army (NPA) and local bandit groups operating in the provinces of South Cotabato, Sarangani and Davao del Sur. Such operations led to the recovery of 67 high-powered firearms, arrest of 46 NPA rebels and bandits as well as the capture of 19 rebel encampments. The brigade also facilitated the surrender of 623 NPA rebels and bandits and their enlistment with the national government’s integration and reconciliation programs. Under Miranda’s leadership, the 1002nd Brigade was able to hand over the lead role of the internal security efforts to the local governments of South Cotabato and Sarangani.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474086

2 IEDs defused along Sultan Kudarat road

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23): 2 IEDs defused along Sultan Kudarat road

Bomb experts defused using water disruptors two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) they recovered inside the U-box of a motorcycle abandoned along the national highway in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, around 10:30 a.m. Friday. Supt. Roel Sermese chief of Isulan Police, said a bystander saw the Bajaj motorcycle near the round ball along the Poblacion. When they allegedly checked the vehicle, they found inside the U-box or baggage compartment the two IEDs, one fashioned from an 81mm mortar and the other, 60mm mortar. Immediately, they sought assistance from the Explosives and Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team from Sultan Kudarat province. Sermese said they have yet to determine the motive and the group who planted the IEDs in his area-of-responsibility. The police are also studying the possibility that the bombs were planted to inflict harm on those groups who visited the massacre site in Barangay Masalay, Ampatuan town. In 2011, when the group of Maguindanao Governor Esmael "Toto" Mangudadatu visited the site to commemorate the deaths of 58 people, including his wife and relatives, two IEDs planted along the highway and few kilometers away from the area were recovered and defused by bomb experts. Despite the recovery of IEDs, media and other support groups would continue the mock funeral they earlier decided as their way of commemorating the grisly murders, considered the most heinous of all times.....

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474131

PNP holds counter insurgency training in Tuguegarao City

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23): PNP holds counter insurgency training in Tuguegarao City

About 179 officers of the Police Regional Office (PRO2) eagerly participated in the opening Friday of the 45 day-rigid and tough training on Special Counter Insurgency Operations Unit Training (SCOUT) here. PRO2 regional director Atty. Rodrigo Purisima De Gracia, said the training will be conducted by the Regional Special Training Unit 2 (RSTU2) personnel who are equipped and well-trained with the different tactics and strategies in combat operations. He told the police officers that the training is one of the toughest and the most difficult training which teaches every basic detail in Internal Security Operations (ISO).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474189

Army 1st Infantry Division holds company commanders’ symposium

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23): Army 1st Infantry Division holds company commanders’ symposium

A total of 78 young officers in the Philippine Army based here in the region attended a four-day Company Commanders’ Symposium, a military official announced Friday. Capt. Alberto Caber, spokesman of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, said the symposium was held at the division headquarters in Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. The three-day activity, which was attended by officers whose ranks range from Lieutenant to Major, started Tuesday and ended Friday, according to Caber. The symposium aimed to sharpen the leadership skills of the Army Company Commanders (ACCs) who are the division’s front-line peacemakers, Caber said. The symposium touched on the role of the ACCs in the implementation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” and the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) under the Combat Leadership Enhancement Program (CELP) of the Philippine Army, he said. Meanwhile, 1st Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III urged the participants to win the peace through performance excellence, good governance and honor in the military service. “You, as the cutting-edge for peace and development can make this region a better place free from harassment, threat and extortion activities by the rebels and bandits. Let us focus on the Army core purpose of serving the people, securing the land,” Cruz said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474195

Mangudadatu says he was target of foiled roadside bomb attack in Sultan Kudarat

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23): Mangudadatu says he was target of foiled roadside bomb attack in Sultan Kudarat

Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu believes he was the target of the road side bomb planted while they are going to the site of the Maguindanao massacre in Maguindanao province on Friday. “Very clear that the bomb was intended for me and my convoy,” Mangudadatu told reporters. Mangudadatu’s convoy had just passed by the welcome rotunda of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat when police received a tip from a concerned citizens about an abandoned motorcycle parked at a roadside where the governor’s convoy of vehicles was to pass at 9 a.m. Friday. Senior Supt. Rolen Balquin, Sultan Kudarat police director, said the Bajaj Red motorbike with license plate 8571 YS was registered to Christopher Pangki in Kidapawan City Land Transportation Office but carries a SIKPAW sticker issued in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. SIKPAW stickers are issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP) to authenticate the vehicle is registered with them. Balquin said the motorbike carried four mortars, two 60-mm and two 81-mm mortars, with mobile phone as trigger mechanism. Army and police bomb experts said the cellphone failed to trigger the main charge thus it did not explode.....

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474224

Suspected JI member killed in Marawi shootout

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 23): Suspected JI member killed in Marawi shootout

A suspected member of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) terror network was killed while a policeman was wounded in a shootout in Marawi City, a military official announced Friday. Army’s 1st Infantry Division spokesman Capt. Alberto Caber said the shootout took place around 7 p.m. Thursday in Barangay Salam, Marawi City. Caber identified the slain JI suspect as Ustadz Sanusi alias Ishak, who was declared dead on arrival at the Amai Pakpak Hospital. Sanusi, whose real name is unknown, is from Tegal, Central Java, Indonesia, according to the website of the International Crisis Group (ICG). The ICG said that Sanusi has trained here in Mindanao at Camp Hudaibiyah from 1999 to 2000. Caber did not identify the wounded policemen except in saying he is a member of the Special Action Force (SAF), who fell from the building during the shootout. The shootout ensued when combined military and policemen went to Salam to serve warrants of arrest on seven suspected JI members including Sanusi, Caber said. Sanusi has a warrant of arrest for arson and murder issued by a court in Saranggani province, he said. The troops found a hand grenade and M-16 rifle from the possession of the slain suspected JI member, he said. Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, lauded the military and policemen for Sanusi’s neutralization. “In the spirit of bayanihan, we can assure our people that the joint Army-PNP pursuit operations against bad elements and those who disturb peace in our area shall go without let up,” Cruz said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=474221

MILF: Editorial--‘Coddling’ suspects in Ampatuan Massacre

Editorial from the MILF Website (Nov 23-30): ‘Coddling’ suspects in Ampatuan Massacre

It is very easy to make sweeping statement that as if the accused is already guilty beyond reasonable doubt of the crime imputed to it but when it comes to validating the allegation it is very difficult to prove. This case shows nakedness in the allegation of the National Press Club (NPC) that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is coddling the suspects in the Ampatuan Massacre. The NPC urged the Aquino administration to demand from the MILF to “surrender” all the other suspects in the infamous 2009 Ampatuan Massacre in Maguindanao as part of their confidence-building measure before the signing of any formal peace settlement. We do not fault the NPC for making such a proposal; it is not such a weird view that it has to be disposed off instantly. NPC has strong points in this respect. However, what are not factored-in by the NPC in making such a call are the following material points: 1) immediately, after the commission of the heinous crime on November 23, 2009, the MILF had immediately and officially condemned the crime and the perpetrators. The massacre is plain and pure simple criminal act that has nothing to do directly with GPH-MILF peace process. There is no existing mechanism that covers this matter, except by way of subsequent special arrangement by the MILF and government ceasefire committees to avoid misunderstanding and confrontation on the ground; 2) the suspects are not in the custody of the MILF; in fact, they are in their native places and amongst their relatives; and 3) the MILF will not stand in the way if government conducts manhunt or pursuit operations. The MILF will only invoke the right to be coordinated as per mechanisms of the ceasefire so require. We appeal to the NPC to do due diligent to verify its sources of information. That what it called “reliable information” as its source of information may not necessarily be reliable. For the information of the NPC, the MILF has no more “military camps” spread all over Mindanao. We have already abandoned the idea of fixed camping after the Estrada-declared all-out war in 2000. We can rest assure the NPC and its president Mr. Benny Antiporda that the MILF will not harbor criminals, but at the same, however, to tell him that every engagement between the MILF and the government is covered by agreed terms of reference.

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2947:coddling-suspects-in-ampatuan-massacre&catid=344:gggg

MILF: MILF members of Transition Commission known by mid-December

From the MILF Website (Nov 23): MILF members of Transition Commission known by mid-December

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will release the names of those who will be appointed to the Transition Commission (TC) by no later than the middle of next month. The TC, which is composed of 15 members including the chairman, has three major tasks namely: to write the Basic Law, to propose amendments to the Constitution, and to coordinate, if necessary, development projects in the area of the Bangsamoro. Eight of the members including the chairman will be nominated by the MILF and seven to be nominated by the government. The disclosure was made by Muhammad Ameen, chair of the MILF Secretariat, during an interview with Luwaran today. However, he clarified that the names will only be released after the Executive Order to create the TC will come out and signed by President Benigno Aquino III. Asked to describe the eight MILF TC members, Ameen made the assurance that the composition will be well-balanced and representative of the major blocs in the MILF and tribes in Mindanao. He said the MILF TC members will include one woman and one member of the indigenous tribes. He disclosed that as early as October the MILF has already shortlisted some 15 names which was trimmed to just eight names early this month.

 http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2948:milf-members-of-transition-commission-known-by-mid-december&catid=31:general&Itemid=41

MILF: Thinking Skills for Bangsamoro Officers and Managers held

From the MILF Website (Nov 23): Thinking Skills for Bangsamoro Officers and Managers held

The Board of Directors , top and middle level managers of the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) successfully completed the 1st round of training on Direct Attention Thinking Tool (DATT), held on November 19-21,2012 at BLMI Training Center, Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. It was facilitated by Atty. Camilo “Bong” Montesa, President of The Art of Peace Group, Inc. This is a two (2) round Strategic Thinking Skills Training supported by The Asia Foundation and Mindanao Trust Fund Reconstruction and Development Program. Other participants were officers of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) and MILF High Ranking Officials. “This is the first thinking training conducted in Mindanao so far”, Atty. Montesa said. In this round, BDA learned de Bono's 10 perception thinking tools and new tool for collaborative thinking using de Bono's Six Thinking Hats. Dr. Edward de Bono is regarded by many as the leading international authority on creative thinking and on the direct teaching of thinking skills. Atty. Montesa emphasized that “Strategic Thinking” is an operational skills on how to make things happen. It provides substantial tools on problem solving, prioritization, generation of alternatives, looking at consequences and related skills”. Uz. Mahmod Ahmad, BLMI Executive Director, said that “BDA and BLMI officers’ main resources is thinking -- how to make things happen”. “Efficient thinking is basic in BDA’s slogan of Building People who will be the Nation hence, thinking skills of BDA officials, volunteers and development catalysts must be honed in order to facilitate development efforts in conflict affected areas in the Bangsamoro”, according to Dr. Saffrullah Dipatuan , BDA Chairman. “As a development arm of the MILF, BDA Management has to make decisions every day and it is the focus thinking that delivers results”, said one of the MILF High Ranking Officers who were present. He said further that “this training is very constructive, I hope this will be re-echoed to our constituents”. The next round of training will be held on the 3rd week of December 2012 at the same venue.

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2949:thinking-skills-for-bangsamoro-officers-and-managers-held&catid=31:general&Itemid=41

MILF: CBCS holds Forum on Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro

From the MILF Website (Nov 22): CBCS holds Forum on Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro

The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society Organizations (CBCS) organized a Forum on Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) held at the Community Training and Resource Center of the Kadtuntaya Foundation, Inc., Cotabato City last October 30, 2012 participated in by some two hundred individuals from Civil Society Organizations and the academe.
In his opening remarks, Guiamil Alim, Chair of the CBCS, said that “the present generation of the Bangsamoro must join hands in synergy to make the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro work”. “The next generation will curse us if we make the wrong decisions today,” Alim, also the Executive Director of the Kadtuntaya Foundation, Inc. (KFI), pointed out.“The people in the ground, the farmers, the fisher folks and even the combatants have very high expectations in the signing of the framework agreement. We cannot afford to fail them but at the same time we cannot also give them false hope,” he added. “I look at the FAB as only the proverbial “single step towards a journey of thousand miles,” he said.....

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2950:cbcs-holds-forum-on-framework-agreement-on-the-bangsamoro&catid=31:general&Itemid=41

MILF: UNYPAD Settles Feud in Midsayap

From the MILF Website (Nov 23): UNYPAD Settles Feud in Midsayap



The United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD) through its organized Quick Response Team (QRT) held a thanksgiving ceremony in the light of the signing of a peace covenant between the Masgal and Adam Families who have been feuding for years. It was held at Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato last October 31, 2012 and was attended by some 300 members of the two families. Datuan Magon, Project Officer of the UNYPAD on Conflict Mitigation program, said that the activity is an offshoot of the two-month intervention efforts that brought the two clans into a series of consultations and dialogues.

“The UNYPAD is very much thankful to the The Asia Foundation (TAF) for its continuous financial assistance in the organization’s Conflict Management and Resolution Program as this effort takes an indispensable aspect in the quest for establishing a Bangsamoro Government that will finally bring into full closure the conflict in Mindanao,” Magon, also the Deputy Secretary General for Administration of UNYPAD, said.

He added that he and the rest of the UNYPAD leaders who are present during the significant activity are happy and grateful seeing the leaders of the two clans taking lunch together after they signed the peace covenant, which marks the end of their long years of conflict that claimed numerous lives from both sides”. “What happened now are all indications that intervention can succeed,” he pointed out.
When asked about the role and involvement of the Security Sector, political leaders in Midsayap and the MILF, Yusoph Lumambas, UNYPAD Secretary General, said “they are very active.” “These efforts would have not been made possible without their full support,” Lumambas stressed.....

On his part Rahib Kudto, National President of UNYPAD said “The presence of Honorable Mayor Rabara in Malacaňang during the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamooro and his presence in this event; and the attendance today of some officials and members of the 40th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) members are indicators of their strong support in the search for genuine peace and progress not only in Midsayap but the whole of Mindanao ”.......

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2951:unypad-settles-feud-in-midsayap&catid=31:general&Itemid=41