DAY 11 | 12th soldier killed, 15 more rebels surrender as fighting resumes in Zambo

From InterAksyon (Sep 19): DAY 11 | 12th soldier killed, 15 more rebels surrender as fighting resumes in Zambo

Amid announcements from authorities that the situation has already started to normalize except in “constricted” areas where the remaining rebels are holding hostages to use as “humans shields,” a 12th soldier was killed as fighting resumed in Barangay Sta. Catalina, Zamboanga City.

In a related development, Deputy Director General Felipe Rojas Jr., operations chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said 15 more fighters of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) surrendered, 10 of them Wednesday night, the rest Thursday morning, in Sta. Catalina. This brought the number of captured or surrendered rebels to 108.

It is estimated that 200 followers of MNLF founding chairman Nur Misuari waged the “war for independence.

The military said sporadic fighting started at around 6 a.m. while soldiers were conducting house-to-house search during “clearing operations.” Soon after the fighting broke out, more structures were burning in areas where the operations were underway.

News of the new surrenders came shortly after the death of the soldier was confirmed.
The government led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have already started to build a case against Misuari and his men, led by his trusted ground commander Habier Malik.

On Wednesday, Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II said a rebellion case against Misuari and his loyalists is “very much possible.”

For her part, Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles of the Office the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said Misuari and his loyalists may be charged for the “act of rebellion.”

Although she mentioned the word “terrorism,” Deles refrained from directly calling the Zamboanga siege an act of terrorism.

Misuari’s history

In 2001, Misuari led 600 rebels in the Cabatangan siege, also in Zamboanga, which resulted in the death of more than 100 people and the wounding of scores.

Misuari, then a governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), claimed the attack was meant to stop the ARMM elections because the national government did not “consult” him on the process. He was not seeking for reelection that time.

He fled to Malaysia to evade arrest and the government filed criminal charges against him. Also included in the charge-sheet were supposed leaders of the MNLF and Abu Sayyaf, namely Bakil Annay Harun, Johan Sawadjaan San Sanzibar, Akil Abdurahman Abdur, Addin Esquerra Ishmael, Gamar Bin Abd Razak, Omar Bin Abdullah, and Abu Harris Osman.

On 24 November 2001, the Malaysian police arrested Misuari and six followers on Pulau Jampiras in Malaysia's Sabah state. According to the Malaysian police, the place was suspected of having been used as an MNLF training camp.

On 7 January 2002, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahatir Mohamad ordered Misuari deported after six days in jail in Kuala Lumpur for illegal entry.

Misuari was able to haggle for a house arrest. In 2007, but the government ordered him arrested again on charges of terrorism. He was denied the petition for bail on the terrorism charge but the court granted his and his seven co-accused’s bail petition on the rebellion charge releasing them on bail at P100,000 each. Upon instruction of the Cabinet Security cluster, Misuari was allowed to post bail for his terrorism case on 25 April 2008.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/71046/day-11--twelfth-soldier-killed-as-fighting-resumes-in-zambo

YES TO U.S. BASES? Philippines amenable to construction of US military facilities only if...

From InterAksyon (Sep 19): YES TO U.S. BASES? Philippines amenable to construction of US military facilities only if...

Philippine officials involved in the crafting of a framework agreement with United States regarding the “increased rotational presence” of American forces in the country see no problem with the construction of US military facilities as long as such would be approved by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and ownership would be turned over after every joint military exercises.

“The possibility of construction is there, only if we approved it and only on a temporary basis. At the end of the exercise these will be either removed or transferred to us either [through] an existing process granted by the US Congress in terms of transferring equipment or through our Mutual Logistics [Support] Agreement mechanism,” Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Carlos Sorreta said on Wednesday.

Sorreta, who is also the spokesperson of the Philippine panel, said that in the second round of talks, which was held in Washington on September 12, both parties expressed understanding that the US will not establish a permanent military presence in the country.

Sorreta, together with Defense Undersecretary Pio Batino, gave an update on the second round of talks with the US panel led by Eric John, senior negotiator for military agreements of the State Department who was also among negotiators in the formulation of the PH-US Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

He added that both the US and the Philippines agreed that access and use of facilities will be at the invitation of the Government of the Philippines.

"And thirdly, the agreement should be mutually beneficial in developing the parties’ individual and collective defense capacities, in furtherance of Article 2 of the Mutual Defense Treaty," disclosed Sorreta.

Sorreta stressed that “anything to be built (in the country) has to have mutual benefit and it will only be for a specific type.”

He said this condition would be included in the framework agreement to be approved by both parties.

“One of the things we want very clear is that there is going to be an Article on Ownership [and] that article is going [to make sure] that the facilities remain Philippine property. I think that will be in Article 7,” Sorreta said.

Discussions between the two parties were frank and very respectful, he pointed out.
"The Philippine panel presented its positions on key issues. We also were able to listen to the position of the US panel on a variety of issues. There were substantial discussions on the language of the proposed framework agreement. In fact there is an agreement to have the working title to be changed to Framework Agreement Between the Philippines and the United States on Enhanced Defense Cooperation and Rotational Presence," the Philippine panel spokesperson stressed.

"During the (second round of) negotiations, we had clear understandings and language in key provisions including protection of the environment, the prohibition on nuclear weapons, the implementing agencies of the agreement, the types of areas and facilities that would be subject to the agreement, we had further discussions on other issues which will require us a little more negotiation," Sorreta emphasized.

Both sides earlier agreed that joint exercises and activities under a Framework Agreement will require the approval of the Philippines and will be mutually beneficial to the individual and collective defense capabilities of the two countries in furtherance of Article II of the Mutual Defense Treaty.

During the early stage of American presence in the country, Batino said, US forces cannot just come and use AFP facilities.

“All US access to and use of facilities will be at the invitation of the government,” he said.

Batino said all the sharing and using of military facilities will be anchored on mutual benefits and collective defense capacities for both parties.

At the rate the negotiations were going, Sorreta said, they have already “passed the halfway mark”.

“We’ve had progress and we’re looking to more discussions again to pursue our interest in this endeavor,” he said.

Sorreta just quipped when asked if the framework agreement was already set to be signed as a “Christmas gift” of President Braack Obama to the Philippine government when he visits the country next month.

“It’s not pegged to be signed on Christmas, as a Christmas gift or anything. When we are sure that we have met the parameters given to us, then that’s the time we conclude. It may depend on how the agreement progresses, it may happen soon, it may happen later, but we will sign this when we’re ready to sign,” he said.

“I wish I have the sixth sense but we’re negotiating this [with] the best we can,” he added.

The proposal for increased rotational presence of American forces became more boldly discussed by both countries following the increasing intrusions of China into disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea, especially in the Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in Masinloc, Zambales and the Ayungin Reef in the Kalayaan island group in Palawan.

Aside from Sorreta and Batino, the other members of the Philippine panel were Defense Assistant Secretary Raymond Jose and Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Francisco Baraan.

The next round of talks on the framework agreement will be held in Manila on October 1 and 2.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/71042/philippines-amenable-to-construction-of-us-military-facilities-only-if---

Malik still ‘invincible’ as troops hunt MNLF rebels

From the Daily Tribune (Sep 19): Malik still ‘invincible’ as troops hunt MNLF rebels

Government troops pursued heavily armed members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) faction of Chairman Nur Misuari through the street and homes of Zamboanga City, warning they would be killed or captured unless they surrender.

On the 10th day of the siege, MNLF rebels, however, continued to hold ground in some areas, launching “pockets of resistance” against advancing military troops.
Fire also broke out in two areas in Zamboanga City yesterday amid the fighting.

At a press briefing, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. said MNLF fighters, led by Ustadz Habier Malik, are now holed up within the boundaries of barangays Sta. Barbara and Sta. Catalina.

“There are now pockets of resistance or fire coming from the MNLF Misuari faction side. This is in just within the boundary of Sta. Barbara and Sta. Catalina,” he added.

Authorities believe the rebels intentionally set ablaze the houses while retreating.

“We believe that there are still about more or less 75 members of the armed group... we have reports that there are still hostages being held by the Misuari faction of MNLF and still they are being used as human shields,” he stressed.

Asked if Malik remains in the combat zone in the boundaries of barangays Sta. Barbara and Sta. Catalina, Tutaan replied “without sacrificing operational matters, I would say yes because that is where the armed group is in right now, still engaging.”

Tutaan maintained that government security forces are still on calibrated response mode but stressed that the sporadic clashes have waned.

“The incidents right now are not as intense as the past three days or over the weekend,” he said.

The seeming silence of the MNLF guns, the military spokesman added, could be attributed to the lowering supply of ammunition.

But Tutaan said the armed men still can initiate violence in the areas.

Military information chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, for his part, said fresh fighting took place Wednesday, and soldiers had orders to “neutralize” the remaining 30-40 rebels, who were roaming through houses in urban areas.

Zagala emphasized the military was intent on not allowing the remaining rebels to escape, with troops blocking strategic routes out to sea.

Nevertheless, he said the military could not conduct a full-out assault against the rebels for fear of endangering civilians ensnared in the conflict.

“We want to finish this in the soonest possible time. But we want to ensure the safety and security of the civilians who are either trapped or being held hostage,” Zagala added.

According to him, 30 more MNLF members were reported killed in the past 24 hours in addition to the 51 body counts reported in the past eight days.

But Malik was not among the 81, Zagala said.

The rebels were believed to be holding as many as 21 hostages, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II told reporters in Zamboanga, as he outlined operations to flush the insurgents out of the communities.

“We are now at the stage of clearing operations... we are going from house to house, block to block. Houses are built close together, the streets are narrow,” he said.

“We have to ensure that there are no more fighters there and that no booby traps were left behind.”

As of noontime Tuesday, Tutaan said a total of 11 soldiers had been killed in action while 105 others were wounded since the siege started last Sept. 9 when around 300 MNLF fighters infiltrated five coastal barangays in Zamboanga City.

Three soldiers were killed Tuesday night as government troops assaulted KGK Building in Barangay Sta. Barbara where the group of Malik was believed to have been holed up. The building is now under government control.

Tutaan added that 86 MNLF members were killed while 93 others were either arrested or surrendered.

A total of 152 civilian hostages had been rescued.

Those deaths occurred as the military achieved one of its biggest breakthroughs, securing the release of more than 140 civilians after taking back control of some neighborhoods.

About 100,000 people, or roughly 10 percent of Zamboanga’s population, have been displaced due to the fighting, while the city has been brought to a standstill with schools closed and transport services suspended.

“We’re closing in. Of course, we’re still assessing how much percentage remains... as we have said, most of them have holed out in Sta. Barbara and Sta. Catalina,” Tutaan said.

Relatedly, the MNLF branded the abduction and immediate release of Senior Supt. Jose Chiquito Malayo as “well-scripted” as it disowned the 23 MNLF members who were supposedly convinced by the Zamboanga City police chief to surrender.

MNLF Misuari faction spokesman lawyer Emmanuel Fontanilla, who claimed that Malik took Malayo and three of his men as prisoners of war (PoWs) last Tuesday hours after he was reported seized in Barangay Talon-Talon, said the script was very well done that the MNLF was misled.

“We were misled by the script but lately we learned it is a fake. It was too far from Sta. Catalina, about nine kilometers. Good script by Assad Roxas...Stephen Spielberg for his election in 2016,” said Fontanilla, apparently noting the area of concentration of the armed conflict.

Fontanilla was referring to the Interior secretary whom he likened to Syria’s Bashar Assad, who is accused of using chemical weapons in attacking anti-government forces in Syria.

Fontanilla also branded the supposed surrender of 23 MNLF fighters who took Malayo and his men as fake.

The MNLF spokesman accused government forces of bribing civilians and militiamen to pose as MNLF and surrender.

http://tribune.net.ph/index.php/headlines/item/19283-malik-still-invincible-as-troops-hunt-mnlf-rebels

Rebels send surrender feelers: Aying

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 18): Rebels send surrender feelers: Aying

Col Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday said they have received surrender feelers from several members of the New People’s Army who also want to lay down their guns, after the recent encounter at the boundary of Sagay City and Toboso in northern Negros.

Military records show that the 89 rebels who surrendered to the 303rd Infantry Brigade since 2011, have availed of assistance from the provincial government of Negros Occidental, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process.

While he did not elaborate on the details of the surrender feelers they got, Aying said the two recent encounters believed to have caused the wounding of several rebels and even deaths of some, have stung the entire NPA organization in northern Negros.

In the successive encounters, two suspected rebels were captured, while nine high-powered firearms, including M-16, M14 and AK-47 assault rifles, as well as two .45 caliber pistols, left behind by fleeing rebels were recovered by the military and police, he added.

It was a major tactical and operational blunder on the part of the NPA, Aying claimed.

“ It heavily affected their will to fight and some of them have already expressed their desire to surrender through various contacts,” he also said.

There are reports that progressive organizations in Negros Occidental are slated to conduct a fact-finding mission in the hinterlands of Toboso and Sagay City, to probe alleged human rights violations committed by Army soldiers, who are now searching for hidden firearms in houses, without search warrants.


Aying said “ They (NPA) are now in a state of confusion and blaming each other for what had happened. They do not know how they were located by soldiers and policemen”.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/September/18/topstory3.htm

Army, NPA clash anew in Neg. Or

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep18): Army, NPA clash anew in Neg. Or

Government troops clashed with suspected members of the New People’s Army in Sitio Nagud-od, Barangay Nagbalaye in Sta. Catalina town, Negros Oriental, at around 1 p.m. yesterday.

Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302nd Brigade, said soldiers of the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, led by 1Lt. Mark Calamba,
exchanged fire with around 15 armed men believed to be members of the NPA Komiteng Rehiyonal Sentral Bisayas-South East Front. The suspected insurgents withdrew later, he said.

He added that the soldiers were conducting security patrol in Brgy. Nagbalaye when they received a tip from an unnamed civilian about the sighting of armed men in Nagud-od.

Pursuit operations continue, and no casualties had been reported as of press time, Patrimonio said.

He said the troops are observing properly the rules of engagement to avoid unnecessary loss of civilian lives and destruction of property.

Government forces will carry out relentless anti-insurgency combat operations in Negros despite the pull-out of the scout rangers, who were deployed to war-torn Zamboanga City, Patrimonio said.

He said they are not letting their guard down, especially with the recent encounter between government troops and suspected NPA rebels at the boundary of Toboso town and Sagay City in Negros Occidental Saturday.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/September/18/negor1.htm

Senior MNLF leaders open camps for gov't check

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 18): Senior MNLF leaders open camps for gov't check 



Senior Tausog, Maranaw, Iranun, Yakan and Maguindanaon leaders of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) agreed Wednesday to open their camps for a headcount of  their followers to prove they are intact and are not to rise against government.

The 53 MNLF leaders met at a government-recognized former rebel camp, now a “peace zone,” in the southwest of Datu Odin Sinsuat town in the first district of Maguindanao.

The meeting was jointly organized by former Cotabato City Vice-Mayor Muslimin Sema, chairman of an MNLF faction that has 20 “revolutionary states” in mainland Mindanao and surrounding island provinces, former Assemblyman Hatimil Hassan of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and former Sulu Gov. Yusoph Jikiri and the group’s most senior leader in Zamboanga City, Abdul Sahrin.

“The meeting was to be held in Pagadian City, but at the last minute we decided to hold it in Maguindanao. Such a gathering can easily be sabotaged if done in Pagadian City, which is within easy reach of our brothers that have chosen the path of war in seeking redress,” said Datun Savedra, chief-of-staff of the MNLF faction led by Sema.

Savedra said participants to the meeting have reached a collective decision to maximize their coordination with the police, the military and the local government units in maintaining law and order in their camps, in the wake of the hostilities being instigated by followers of Nur Misuari.

Savedra said the MNLF leaders from different provinces were also reminded by Sema of their advocacy for the diplomatic resolution of all misunderstandings on the implementation of their now 17-year peace agreement with the national government.

Savedra said they have also reaffirmed, during the meeting, their support to the position of Ekmeleddin Ishanuglo, secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to continue with the tripartite review of the government-MNLF peace accord.

The OIC, a bloc of more than 50 Muslim states, including petroleum-exporting countries in the Middle East and North Africa, brokered the peace agreement and now helps in the three-way effort to resolve misunderstandings on its implementation through its Southern Philippines Peace Committee.

The committee is composed of representatives from Libya, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Bangladesh, Somalia, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey.

Representatives of the MNLF, Malacañang, and the SPCP were supposed to convene for another round of tripartite talks last August 16 in Indonesia, but the event was postponed on the behest of OIC.

“We were not informed for what reason did the OIC asked for its postponement. We’ll just have to wait and see,” Savedra said.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/09/18/1224711/senior-mnlf-leaders-open-camps-govt-check

Soldier killed in clearing ops on 11th day of Zambo City crisis

From GMA News (Sep 19): Soldier killed in clearing ops on 11th day of Zambo City crisis

At least one soldier was reported killed in fresh fighting early morning Thursday, the 11th day of armed confrontations between government and Moro National Liberation Front forces in Zamboanga City.

The incident occurred in Barangay Sta. Catalina, radio dzBB's Benjie Liwanag Jr. reported.

In a report on "News TV Live," Ian Cruz said the soldier who died was hit by sniper fire, adding that the incident was confirmed by Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

Cruz quoted Zagala as saying the latest fatality brings to 10 the total number of soldiers killed in the Zamboanga crisis.

On the other hand, 86 MNLF fighters were killed and 93 were already in police custody, Zagala was quoted in the report as saying.

On Wednesday, however, AFP spokesman Brig. Gen Domingo Tutaan Jr. said that on the part of government forces 14 have been killed, including 11 soldiers and three police officers; and 127 others wounded, including 105 soldiers and 12 police officers.

Also Tutaan said 152 hostages have been rescued while less than 100 remain in the hands of the MNLF gunmen.

Gunfire heard, coastlines watched

Meanwhile, fire broke out in Barangay Rio Hondo in Zamboanga City Thursday morning, according to Chino Gaston's report on GMA News TV's "News To Go."

 

The report said it has yet to be determined if the fire was caused by the gunfight or by arson.

Another fire occurred Thursday morning in Barangay Sta. Barbara, radio dzBB reported.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/327130/news/regions/soldier-killed-in-clearing-ops-on-11th-day-of-zambo-city-crisis

Army Major, Navy man arrested on suspicion they give ammos to rebs

From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Sep 17): Army Major, Navy man arrested on suspicion they give ammos to rebs

An Army Major and an enlisted man of the Philippine Navy along with four civilians were arrested yesterday by government troops and were placed under investigation on suspicion they were supplying ammunition to MNLF rebels in the conflict areas.

 

Held were Major. Hasmin Hadjimudin, an army-MNLF integree and  SN2 Enriquez, both belonging to Military Police based in Western Mindanao Command and four civilians, all relatives of Hadjimudin.

 

Hadjimudin said they were at the Wesmincom when he asked Enriquez to accompany them to go to his house in Sta. Catalina to retrieve his firearms and ammunition.

 

Hadjimudin said they were on his car driven by his nephew and they coordinated with the ground troops in Sta. Catalina.

 

However when they were on their way back to Wesmincom, they were stopped by the soldiers and were held for questioning after security forces found several rounds of ammunition and guns aboard their car.

 

Hadjimudin, Enriquez and the four civilians as well as the recovered weapons were brought to the City Police Office for investigation.

 

Recovered from their possession were an M16 rifle, .45 caliber pistol, M203 grenade launcher, blade weapon (pira), military uniforms and several ammunition of different calibers.

 

Hadjimudin said that he was innocent and he was wondering why they were collared.

 

Meanwhile, nine more MNLF rebels were arrested amid the firefight and four bodies were spotted at the battle ground.

 

http://zamboangatimes.ph/zamboangatimes/top-news/8552-army-major-navy-man-arrested-on-suspicion-they-give-ammos-to-rebs.html

Nur and men violated pact with GPH — MNLF integrees

From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Sep 17): Nur and men violated pact with GPH — MNLF integrees

The now renegade Nur Misuari and his men might just end up labeled “enemies of state“ as consequence of their deadly forays in Zamboanga City, in total disregard of the Moro National Liberation Front’s September 2, 1996 final peace agreement with government.

 

This was the consensus reached by former rebels who are now commissioned officers in different units of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, and the chairman of the MNLF’s largest and most politically-active faction, former Cotabato Vice-Mayor Muslimin Sema.

 

Sema and the Moro soldiers met Saturday night, through the facilitation of 6th ID’s commander, Major Gen. Romeo Gapuz, to discuss how they can cooperate in maintaining the fragile peace in Central Mindanao, amid the hostilities in Zamboanga City and Basilan.

 

The meeting was held at Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao.

 

About 7,000 MNLF members have been integrated into the Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police from 1998 to 2005 under the now 17-year peace agreement, an integration scheme aimed at assimilating former Moro rebels  into the mainstream.

 

Sema, whose group has 20 “revolutionary states” scattered in mainland Mindanao and surrounding island provinces, including Palawan, said the former MNLF members integrated into the AFP and the police doubtlessly remain loyal to their organizations they now serve, bound together by a common oath to protect the Constitution at all cost.

 

Moro officers and enlisted personnel of the 6th ID and its component brigades and battalions admitted having been embarrassed by the actions of Misuari’s followers who laid siege on several barangays in Zamboanga City.

 

“Their violent actions constituted a serious violation of the GPH-MNLF peace agreement. It was tantamount to abrogating the peace agreement,” said an Army major, whose father was an ethnic Maguindanaon guerilla who fought government forces in the 1970s.

 

“What they are doing now is an absolute disrespect to the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation), which is involved in the tripartite review of the peace agreement about five years ago,” seconded a Moro Army captain, who is of Tausog ancestry.

 

The OIC, a block of more than 50 Muslim states, including petroleum exporting countries in the Middle East and North Africa, helped broker the GPH-MNLF peace agreement and is currently involved in the evaluation of the accord through its Southern Philippines Peace Committee.

 

The committee is comprised of representatives from the governments of  Bangadesh, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Senegal, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Turkey, Egypt and Somalia.

 

Sema had told the Moro soldiers that he and his followers are for the peaceful continuation of the tripartite review of the peace agreement to address its weaknesses in a more comprehensive format, one that will also involve the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

 

“It should be called `quadripartite process,’ one that has to involve us in the MNLF, representatives of the national government, the OIC, and the MILF,” Sema said.

“Our group is not at war with MILF,” Sema said.

 

Sema said he was, in fact, surprised on why the OIC has reportedly asked for the deferment of today’s (August 16) tripartite meeting in Indonesia.

 

He said the tripartite review of the GPH-MNLF peace agreement can proceed without Musuari.

 

“I don’t know if that was because of the Zamboanga situation, or if the `MNLF Misuari group’ had asked for it. We already have plane tickets for Indonesia when we learned it has been postponed. We don’t have any information either on when will the meeting be held,” he said.

 

Sema explained to the Moro soldiers that he and his followers have proposed to the OIC the creation of mechanism that would continue the implementation of the sensitive provisions of the peace agreement that have caused misunderstandings between the MNLF and Malacañang.

 

“It must be a peaceful `quadripartite interaction,’ in the spirit of amity and cooperation. No mutinies or bloody revolts just to dramatize ill-feelings,” Sema said.

 

http://zamboangatimes.ph/zamboangatimes/top-news/8549-nur-and-men-violated-pact-with-gph--mnlf-integrees.html

Malaysia defers trial of Kiram’s ‘intruders’

From the Manila Standard Today (Sep 19): Malaysia defers trial of Kiram’s ‘intruders’

The Sultanate of Sulu slammed the Malaysian government on Wednesday for delaying justice after a Malaysian court postponed the start of the trial of 29 Filipinos who are facing the death penalty for their alleged participation in the bloody Sabah intrusion last February.

“That clearly shows that the Malaysian authorities are still building up their fabricated accusations against Datu Amirbahar and the rest of the Filipinos,” said Abraham Idjirani, spokesman of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III.

Idjirani was referring to one of the accused, Amirbahar Hussein Kiram, nephew of Kiram who was among those were are being charged with terrorism and held at a state prison in Kepayan, Kota Kinabalu since their arrest last March and April.

Judge Stephen Chung, who is hearing the charges, reset the trial after the lawyer that the Philippine embassy engaged for the 29 Filipinos, N. Sivananthan, asked for the postponement purportedly because he could not communicate with his clients, Malaysia media reported on Wednesday.

But Idjirani belied the claim, saying Amirbahar and his companions have been residents of Sabah for decades and can fluently speak the official Bahasa Malaysia.

“They can speak Bahasa Malaysia even if they’re all Filipinos. Malaysia is making that an excuse to justify their ‘kangaroo trial’ and eventual conviction of our countrymen,” Idjirani pointed out.

The 29 Filipinos were among the 200 armed supporters, led by Kiram’s brother Agbimuddin, that the sultan sent to Sabah last February to revive the sultanate’s territorial claim on Sabah. The group was called the sultanate’s Royal Security Force and Amirbahar is supposedly one of its generals.

The 10-day trial was originally scheduled to begin on Wednesday in an open courtroom at the heavily guarded Kepayan prison facility. Sivananthan told the court that his legal team had received numerous documents from the prosecution which needed time to be studied.

He said getting instructions from the 29 accused, who are of Badjao and Suluk backgrounds, would also take time as they do not speak Bahasa.

Amirbahar, along with 28 other alleged followers of the Sulu Sultanate, had pleaded not guilty to charges of Waging War Against Malaysian King Yang di-Pertuan Agong and sheltering or recruiting individuals to become members of a terrorist group during their arraignment on June 27.

Both charges carry the death sentence.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/09/19/malaysia-defers-trial-of-kirams-intruders/

Bases Access Pact: Read it when it's ready

From Malaya (Sep 18): Bases Access Pact: Read it when it's ready

A PHILIPPINE panel negotiating a framework agreement on increased rotational presence of American forces in the country yesterday said negotiations are halfway through.

Briefing reporters six days after the conclusion of the third round of negotiations held in Washington, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Carlos Sorreta an agreement “will be signed when the Philippines is sure that it has gotten what it wants.”

“It’s not pegged on any date,” he also said in response to questions on whether an agreement will be forged in time for President Obama’s visit to the Philippines on October 10-11.

“It’s not pegged to be signed on Christmas, as a Christmas gift or anything. It’s when we are sure that we have met the parameters given to us...It depends on how the agreement progresses. It may happen soon, it may happen later, but we will sign this when we’re ready to sign,” he said.

The next round of negotiations will be held in the country on October 1 and 2.

The Philippine panel initially said at least four rounds of negotiations are needed to come up with an agreement. Yesterday, it said four to six more are needed.

 “There is still a need to hold further discussions on these to thresh out some issues, and hopefully both panels will be able to come to an understanding when we hold the fourth round of talks in Manila next month,” said Sorreta.

Defense Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino said some of the remaining issues to be threshed out are “heavier stuff.”’

Sorreta said the Philippine and US panels had “clear understandings on the language in key provisions” on protection of the environment, prohibition on nuclear weapons, among others.

Batino said there was a reiteration of several key concepts during the last round of negotiations, including the non-permanence of US forces that will be going to the Philippines.

Batino said both sides also agreed during the last negotiations to change the working title to “Framework Agreement between the Philippines and the United States on Enhanced Defense Cooperation and Rotational Presence.”

Sorreta said the Americans may construct facilities for specific activities but these will have to be removed upon the completion of the exercise or will have to be transferred to the ownership of the Philippine government.

http://malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/bases-access-pact-read-it-when-it%E2%80%99s-ready

Govt troops closing in on MNLF gunmen in two Zambo villages

From GMA News (Sep 18): Govt troops closing in on MNLF gunmen in two Zambo villages

Government security forces are now focusing operations in Barangays Sta. Catalina and Sta. Barbara in Zamboanga City where Moro National Liberation Front gunmen led by Habier Malik are believed to be holed up, the spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Wednesday.

 

“Without sacrificing operational matters, yes, I would say yes (the focus of operation is in Sta. Catalina and Sta. Barbara) because that is where the armed group [is] right now ... still engaging or still opening fire at the areas, in the civilian areas in [those] two barangays,” Brig. Gen Domingo Tutaan Jr. said at a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo.

At present, Tutaan said enemy resistance has waned due to arrests and deaths of some MNLF members and the effort of government troops to constrict and contain them.

“It is not as intense as yesterday [Tuesday]. One, their number has been neutralized, (there have been) arrests and (some were) killed as far as the MNLF-Nur Misuari faction [is concerned] and also, we can attribute that to the efforts to gradually constrict and contain them in the areas where they are right now,” he said.

Tutaan said there are still about 70 to 75 MNLF gunmen in the boundary of the two barangays.

“There are now pockets of resistance or fires coming from the MNLF-Misuari faction side, this is in Sta. Catalina, of course this is just within the boundary of Sta. Barbara and Sta. Catalina. This morning, a fire broke out again in that area,” he said.

Earlier in the day, AFP public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said Malik is believed moving from house to house to evade pursuing government troops.

Government security forces have been engaging MNLF fighters since September 9 when the armed group tried to hoist their flag at the Zamboanga City Hall. As of early Wednesday, the Philippine National Police said 80 percent of the six villages occupied by the MNLF gunmen have been reclaimed by government forces.

At present, the military is conducting clearing operations in Zamboanga City while they are tracking Malik.

MNLF low on ammo

Tutaan believed the MNLF gunmen are now running out of ammunition after 10 days of fighting.

“They probably are now low in ammunition but still one bullet still can kill, the waning of their resistance or their capability to fight is really to that effect,” he told reporters.

Despite this development, Tutaan said security forces will continue with the operations against the MNLF gunmen.

“Again we must understand that even if there are one or two left on this, we have to make sure that they are not able to launch any violent action or any form of atrocity. There are still armed men there, so we continue our efforts, our response and if ever they start firing at will or at any direction they wish that is what we are trying to prevent, that is the reason why we are undertaking efforts to constrict (them),” he said.

Without providing specific details, Tutaan said they are looking at how the MNLF faction was able to sustain fighting with government troops for more than a week.

Casualties

As of Wednesday morning, Tutaan said 152 hostages have been rescued while less than 100 remain in the hands of the MNLF gunmen.

On the part of government forces Tutaan said 14 have been killed, including 11 soldiers and three police officers; and 127 others wounded, including 105 soldiers and 12 police officers.

On the other hand, 86 MNLF members have been reported killed and 93 were either arrested or have surrendered to authorities.

Meanwhile, seven civilians have been reported killed while 67 others were wounded due to the armed conflict.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/327009/news/regions/govt-troops-closing-in-on-mnlf-gunmen-in-two-zambo-villages

AFP: Some MNLF rebels abandoned firearms, changed into civilian attire

From GMA News (Sep 18): AFP: Some MNLF rebels abandoned firearms, changed into civilian attire

Some of the Moro National Liberation Front gunmen who have engaged government forces in nine days of fighting in Zamboanga City may have abandoned their firearms and mingled with civilians, the military said Wednesday.

Maj. Harold Cabunoc, commander of the Philippine Army’s 7th Civil Relations Group, said this after government forces recovered high-powered firearms from one of the villages were fighting occurred.

"Some of [Nur] Misuari's men have changed to civilian attire and fled, leaving behind their firearms and empty magazines," Cabunoc said on his Twitter account.

He added the firearms recovered by the government troops in Barangay Sta. Catalina included automatic weapons like the AK-47, and rifles like the M-14 and Garand.

Also found were empty magazines, he added.

"Misuari's men are running out of ammo!" he said.

Earlier Wednesday Philippine National Police deputy director for operations Deputy Director General Felipe Rojas Jr. said government forces had retaken as much as 80 percent of MNLF-controlled areas in Zamboanga City.

Casualties top 100 mark

Meanwhile, figures from the AFP as of noon Wednesday indicated the number of fatalities topped the 100 mark.

The AFP said the fatalities included 83 "RMEs" ("Rogue MNLF Elements"), 11 soldiers, three policemen, and seven civilians, or a total of 104 dead.

It said that from the RME side, nine were also wounded while 93 were captured or had surrendered.

From the ranks of the AFP, 105 were wounded. At least 12 policemen and 67 civilians were wounded as well, it added.

Meanwhile, the AFP said at least 152 hostages were released or rescued, while 14 escaped.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/327084/news/nation/afp-some-mnlf-rebels-abandoned-firearms-changed-into-civilian-attire

'23 MNLF rebels surrendered for food, not immunity'

From ABS-CBN (Sep 18): '23 MNLF rebels surrendered for food, not immunity'

The 23 members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) who surrendered to Zamboanga police chief Sr. Supt. Jose Chiquito Malayo did not ask for immunity, Philippine National Police (PNP) deputy chief for operations Dir. Felipe Rojas Jr. said on Wednesday.

Rojas said the MNLF rebels only wanted food in exchange for their surrender.

He also said it is now up to the Department of Justice if they will file charges of rebellion against the rebels who surrendered.

“Ang hiningi lang nila ay pagkain dahil gutom na gutom na sila, several days na silang hindi kumakain,” Rojas told ANC’s “Top Story.”

Rojas said it wasn’t difficult for Malayo to convince the rebels to give up their weapons, because as the rebels told them, they did not go to Zamboanga to make trouble.

The group that surrendered to Malayo is reportedly from Basilan, while another group of MNLF rebels is from Jolo.

The Basilan group claimed that they were misled by MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari into coming to Zamboanga.

“Itong mga na-convince niya, from Basilan. Ang sinasabi nila they were misled into believing na ang pagpunta nila dito sa Zamboanga ay mag-parade at itaas ang bandera ng MNLF, tapos uuwi na sila. When they were told na ganoon ang nangyari, nagdalawang isip na sila. So hindi na mahirap kumbisihin na mag-surrender,” said Rojas.

Rojas lauded Malayo’s efforts in negotiating with the rebels, saying it is an “act of bravery.”

“Mahirap ang ginawa niya, he could’ve have been killed by the rebels. At the same time, 23 rebels ang naalis sa conflict area at 27 firearms ang naalis sa MNLF. So malaking tulong ito sa operation namin,” he said.

Authorities on Wednesday said at least 93 MNLF fighters have been captured by the military.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/focus/09/18/13/23-mnlf-rebels-surrendered-food-not-immunity

MNLF's Sema wants urgent resumption of tripartite review

From ABS-CBN (Sep 18): MNLF's Sema wants urgent resumption of tripartite review

The scheduled tripartite review meeting between the Philippine government, Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was supposed to happen this Monday in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

However, Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Undersecretary Jose Lorena said Tuesday it was postponed following the request of the MNLF secretariat.

MNLF-Sema faction spokesman and former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) assemblyman Romeo Sema said on Wednesday the request was made by the Misuari group due to the continuous clashes in Zamboanga City.

The official said the Sema faction opposes the postponement of the tripartite review meeting as this is a venue where the current situation in Zamboanga City can be discussed by concerned parties.

"Di naman sa hindi pabor, pero sana ang problema ay mapag-usapan dito. Para malaman ano ang posisyon ng gobyerno and what is MNLF's position on the issue," Sema said.

Chairman Muslimin Sema of the MNLF's 15-man council called for a meeting with his ground commanders all over Mindanao to discuss the postponement of the tripartite review meeting and the Zamboanga siege.

This is Sema's way of extending and explaining to the ground commanders and members the reason why the meeting was postponed and to continue to renew their vow not to support or conduct any course of action which is not in line with peace.

"Kasi kung medyo mainit 'yung sitwasyon, medyo pakalmahin natin. Sinabi ni Chairman Sema that there'll be a stand down of all the forces of the MNLF and abide by the position of the central committee and the supremacy of the 1996 final peace agreement," Sema said.

The Sema faction vows to proceed with the tripartite review meeting to settle pending issues in the final peace agreement of 1996.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/09/18/13/mnlfs-sema-wants-urgent-resumption-tripartite-review

2 Marines hurt in NPA attack in Palawan

From ABS-CBN (Sep 18): 2 Marines hurt in NPA attack in Palawan

Two members of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 4 sustained minor injuries after they were attacked allegedly by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Wednesday.

Authorities said the troops were conducting clearing operations in the area when a firefight erupted at around 6:45 p.m.

The rebels retreated after the brief gunfight. No arrests were made.

Military officials declined to name the injured soldiers because their families have not yet been informed.

They were brought to the Western Mindanao Command hospital for treatment.

The military suspects that the NPA rebels acted in retaliation because some of their comrades were arrested in Palawan in the past months.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/09/18/13/2-marines-hurt-npa-attack-Palawan

Deles has message for Misuari

From ABS-CBN (Sep 18): Deles has message for Misuari

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita "Ging" Deles has a piece of advice for Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and its founding chairman, Nur Misuari.

"You cannot have peace without justice and you cannot have a durable peace where you cannot enforce the rule of law," Deles told Misuari during an interview with ANC's "Headstart."

"Clearly you cannot have peace when...you are talking on the table and they put a gun on your head. That cannot be allowed," she added.

"Peace will always have to be based on what is the right thing to do. Peace will have to be based on thinking on what is good for the people," Deles said.

She said the government has been meeting with Misuari's camp as well as various factions of the MNLF on the tripartite review of the implementation of the 1996 final peace agreement facilitated by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Another meeting has been set in Yogyakarta, Indonesia supposedly last Monday, but Deles said Misuari asked for a postponement.

Misuari's faction laid siege on Zamboanga City on September 9, about a month after the MNLF leader declared independence for Mindanao, Palawan and parts of Malaysia.

The declaration of independence was triggered by what the MNLF believes is the government's abandonment of the tripartite review in favor of holding peace talks with an MNLF breakaway group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Deles warned the MNLF rebels loyal to Misuari that the government is ready for them no matter what happens.

"To the MNLF who want to continue to engage with government, we are ready. We are ready for you," she said.

But for MNLF members who do not want to side with Misuari, she said: "Don't let them hold us up. Don't let them hold us hostage. Don't let the peace process be held hostage by people who cannot see what is the best for the people that they claim to represent."

MNLF is not one voice

Noting that the MNLF is "not one organization" nor "one voice," Deles said the government has tried to reach out to various groups and communities regarding the ongoing peace talks with the MILF.

She said many people actually support the peace process and are unhappy with the ongoing standoff in Zamboanga City.

Leaders of other MNLF factions in other areas in Mindanao are also saddened by the crisis in Zamboanga, she noted.

"What we keep on hearing from the community, many of them welcome the framework agreement and were calling on their leadership that now is the time to unite because we have the space. That is what we hear from many of the communities. They want peace, they want development," she said.

She also reiterated that Misuari's camp was invited to take part in the Bangsamoro framework agreement but "for some reason decided not to be part of it."

No all-out war vs Misuari-led MNLF

Deles also defended the government for the actions it has taken against the MNLF faction of Misuari.

She said government security forces have been enforcing not an all-out war but a "calibrated response" to contain violence and to protect civilians, who were held hostage and reportedly used as "human shields" by the rebels.

"That is why it has taken this long. An all-out war mentality would not care how many civilians would be caught in between."

"This government has cared and that is why it has been careful," she said.

Deles said she is leaving it to the Department of Justice (DOJ) whether to file a case against Misuari.

But she said: "It is clear that something like this cannot go unheeded. Some people will have to made accountable."

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/09/18/13/deles-has-message-misuari

CPP: Successive dockings of US, Japanese warships are affront on Philippine sovereignty—CPP

From the CPP Website (Sep 18): Successive dockings of US, Japanese warships are affront on Philippine sovereignty—CPP

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) condemned the successive dockings of US and Japanese warships in Philippine ports in the past few days as an “affront on Philippine sovereignty.”

The CPP added that the dockings are meant to “strengthen US hegemonist aims in the Asia-Pacific, stoke further the South China Sea conflict and make the peaceful resolution of the Spratly conflict more difficult to achieve.”

The CPP issued this statement as two US warships arrived yesterday at Subic Bay to participate in war games at the South China Sea conflict area with troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The USS Boxer, an amphibious assault ship, and the USS New Orleans, an amphibious transport dock ship, are part of the Box Amphibious Ready Group, and are capable of launching amphibious assault operations.

Earlier last Sunday, two Japanese warships arrived and docked at Manila Bay. The JS Akebona (DD-108) and the JS Hamagiri (DD-155) are under the Escort Six Division of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. For two days, the Japanese warships underwent so-called “reprovisioning, rest and recreation.”

“The increasing and continuing presence of US warships and combat troops in the Philippines, and now, of US-allied Japanese forces as well, make a mockery of Philippine sovereignty and reduces the capability of the Philippines to exercise an independent foreign policy,” pointed out the CPP.

“By allowing the US military to station its forces permanently in the Philippines, the Aquino regime has for all intents surrendered Philippine independence and tied Philippine foreign policy to that of the US.”

“The puppet Aquino regime must be held responsible for the continuing degeneration of Philippine sovereignty,” declared the CPP. “After three years, the Aquino regime has thoroughly trashed Philippine sovereignty as it has subsumed itself completely to the foreign policy dictates of the US government.”

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130918_successive-dockings-of-us-japanese-warships-are-affront-on-philippine-sovereignty-cpp

MILF: Editorial--Crossing the Rubicon

From the MILF Website (Sep 16): Editorial: Crossing the Rubicon

(By) ordering the assault of Zamboanga City, Nur Misuari has virtually crossed the Rubicon. The idiom "Crossing the Rubicon" means to pass a point of no return, and refers to Julius Caesar's army's crossing of the river in 49 BC, which was considered an act of insurrection.
  

It was the place where he uttered the famous phrase "alea iacta est" – the die is cast.

We are not saying Misuari is already downed. If there is a way, frankly speaking, we do not want that to happen. But his declaration of independence and ordering the assault of Zamboanga City is a wild move that can cause him great trouble, perhaps a gradual slipping into oblivion. The ill-effects are surely reaching him by now. More seriously, the moral legitimacy of his leadership is seriously doubted now. We don’t think the destruction, killings, abuses, and rapes (if true) that came with the siege can be easily forgotten and ignored. In fairness, his forces might not have committed all of those excesses, but in war, the losers usually got all the blames and curses. The victors dictate how the narratives of the war are written.

For one, the siege had effectively revived the old wounds of Moro-Christian animosities that are more alive in Zamboanga City than elsewhere where many if not most of the non-Muslim leaders are hostile to the cause of the MNLF and even of the MILF. There is hardly any distinction drawn between the two.  They are more often lumped together.

The Zamboanga tragedy is not an act of brinkmanship, which great leaders often do, but rather in summary a blunder. The approach was reminiscent of 1970s model whereby no civilized rules of engagement were recognized by both government and insurgent forces. Anything that moved was a legitimate target. But today we are living in a more civilized world where there is clear and written norm of engagement which no one can disregard.  We have to abide by it or the world will pound on us. We can see what happened to Pol Pot of Cambodia and President Slobodan Milosevic of Yugoslavia, among others, how they were tried and brought to the bar of international justice. They were both shamed and cursed. We do not want that to happen to Misuari, who is considered father of the MNLF, which all of the senior leaders of the MILF were part of.

We do not know whether Misuari had ever thought of the negative impacts of his order. Obviously, he effectively forgot the doctrine of people’s war whereby the people’s interests and safety are central to every planning and activities pursued by a revolutionary organization. “Serve the people wholeheartedly” says the doctrine.

The extent of the damage of the siege would also seriously impact on the government, as well. Very surely, President Benigno Aquino III is encountering great difficulty in figuring out the better policy option he would adopt: File a case and arrest Misuari, sanitize him from any guilt of the siege and continue dealing with him, or launch military actions against him and his remaining loyal forces. None of the three options yield clear advantage to the government. All are laden with serious negative consequences. Perhaps, the best option is to choose the lesser evil. Or better still, look for the best option, which we are not sure there is any available.

Similarly, even the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) which supported Misuari through thick and thin for decades is surely taken aback by the debacle in Zamboanga City.  They too have to do due diligence and soul-searching. Frankly, we do not know how they handle this kind of situation. We pray for their guidance!

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/559-‘crossing-the-rubicon’

MILF: YCC convenes emergency meeting on Zamboaga crisis

Posted to the MILF Website (Sep 18): YCC convenes emergency meeting on Zamboaga crisis




The Yakan City Committee (YCC) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) held an emergency meeting the other day at Pasangan, Basilan Province to assess the Zamboanga City crisis purposely to prevent possible spill-over to Basilan particularly in Isabela City.
  

This as some members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)  involved in the siege of  several barangays in Zamboanga City are from the province of Basilan.

Hazatullah, YCC Supervising Officer, said the meeting was in view of the alarming situation in Zamboanga City which caused so much problems to people of Basilan in the wake of the cancellations of vessels trip, cancellation of classes, closures of business establishments both in Zamboanga City and Basilan following the attacks by MNLF-Misuari faction since last September 9, 2013.

“We are also alarmed of the sympathy attacks by the Abu Sayyaf Group and MNLF members in Lamitan City last week and maybe in Isabela City to divert the attention of the government soldiers in Zamboanga City,” he said.

He added that some plans and course of actions had been undertaken by the  YCC in order to protect the innocent civilians and the momentum of the ongoing peace process between the government and MILF.

“We appeal to our brothers and sisters with the MNLF and other groups to take the path of peace and support the GPH – MILF Peace Process,” he said

Hj. Rashid Iklaman, the YCC Chairman, said the meeting stressed the need to response to many disinformation campaigns through text messages that the MNLF together with some other armed groups to include the MILF are going to attack Isabela City and other towns in Basilan.

“There is not truth to that information, adding it is being done by those who are bent to spoil and sabotage the ongoing peace talks in Malaysia between the GPH and the MILF,: Iklaman added.

The Yakan City Committee asked the traditional and religious leaders in Basilan to talk and convince the MNLF to join the forces for peace in Basilan.

Groups of Quick Response Volunteers (QRV) to response for cases of emergency and protection of civilians in the area of YCC were also created.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/562-ycc-convenes-emergency-meeting-on-zamboaga-crisis

AFP uses Twitter to fight MNLF but…

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 18): AFP uses Twitter to fight MNLF but…



Even the conflict between government forces and members of the Moro National Liberation Front in Zamboanga City has gone online. But it seemed the other was pursuing the wrong target.

On Tuesday night, the official Twitter account of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) started the exchange by tagging an account purportedly set up by the MNLF (@mnlfnet) in one of its tweets, calling for their surrender.

“@mnlfnet we reiterate our call for (Habier) Malik’s group to surrender and take responsibility for their actions,” the AFP posted on its Twitter account at 9:23p.m.

“There is still honor in surrender especially if it will result in the safety of their hostages and the lives of his men,” it added.

Malik is a known follower of MNLF founding chairman Nur Misuari, and is believed to be leading the attacks in Zamboanga city since Sept. 9.

In response, the MNLF account posted a few minutes later: “Ustaj Khabier Malik is now immortalized as “puddang sin kamaaldikaan”. He treasures martyrdom than anything else in this world.”

But the AFP shot back: “Surrender must be unconditional & every fighter in Malik’s group should be ready & willing to face consequences of their actions.”

 

The MNLF reacted: “When did MNLF run from a good battle? When did they surrender to the oppressors if not only for the calling of peaceful solution?”

 

The Twitter account of the AFP has about 17,000 followers, and had intensified in posting tweets since the start of the Zamboanga crisis. It had also been active in engaging users and defending the organization, especially when the news on frayed combat boots and soldiers begging food in Mindanao broke out.

 

“You know things are bad when the normally quiet AFP is tweeting its head off.

 

Please pray for our troops in Zamboanga,” a certain @reinaregina on Twitter posted.

 

But another showed his support to the troops in his tweet: @TeamAFP To our fallen heroes, Zamboanga will never forget your ultimate sacrifice. We are forever indebted to you. MABUHAY PILIPINAS!,” tweeted @judegarcines.

 

“Don’t pay attention they are trying to destroy the image of the AFP. bat kaya ndi na lang sila ang sumabak sa giyera,” a @Dennybie tweeted.

 

The MNLF account, meanwhile, has about 300 followers. It had also been actively engaging with other Twitter users, especially journalists and news organizations.

 

Reached for comment, MNLF spokesperson Atty. Emmanuel Fontanilla denied that they have a Twitter account or any social media account.

 

“We only grant interviews, we don’t have Facebook or Twitter,” he told INQUIRER.net in a phone interview.

http://technology.inquirer.net/29369/afp-uses-twitter-to-fight-mnlf-but

AFP starts clearing operations in Zamboanga

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 18): AFP starts clearing operations in Zamboanga

With 70 to 80 percent of areas formerly controlled by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) now in government hands, the Armed Forces Wednesday announced it is now conducting clearing operations on the recaptured localities.

"We are currently pushing forward and in the areas we have recaptured, we have already started our clearing operations," he added.

Zagala said that no major incidents have took transpired in the last 24 hours.

He stated that Habier Malik, one of the top MNLF commanders spotted during the fighting in the Zamboanga City stand-off, is probably holed in the areas still under control of the rebels.

Zagala declined to comment on where this is exactly.

"We are now focusing on that area," the AFP public affairs office chief added.

He also refused to comment on when the final push of the military will take place, adding that it is too brazen.

But Zagala stressed that the remaining MNLF fighters are now starting to run out of ammunition as shots coming from MNLF positions are starting to slow down.

"They are now starting to conserve ammunition, they are not able to sustain firing (their weapons) any more," he concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=566965

Next round of IRP talks to be held in Manila Oct. 1 to 2

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 18): Next round of IRP talks to be held in Manila Oct. 1 to 2
 
The next round of talks regarding the increased rotational presence (IRP) of American troops and equipment will be held in Manila on Oct. 1 to 2, Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Carlos Sorreta, Philippine panel spokesperson, said on Wednesday.

This is the third round of talks between the American and Filipino panels.

Sorreta said that in the second round of talks, which was held in Washington early this month, both parties expressed understanding that the US will not establish a permanent military presence in the country.

He added that both the US and the Philippines agree that acccess and use of facilities will be at the invitation of the Government of the Philippines.

"And thirdly, the agreement should be mutually beneficial in developing the parties’ individual and collective defense capacities, in furtherance of Article 2 of the Mutual Defense Treaty," Sorreta disclosed.

Discussions between the two parties were frank and very respectful, he pointed out.

"The Philippine panel presented its positions on key issues, we also were able to listen to the position of the US panel on a variety of issues, there were substantial discussions on the language of the proposed framework agreement, in fact there is an agreement to have the working title to be changed to Framework Agreement Between the Philippines and the United States on Enhanced Defense Cooperation and Rotational Presence," the Philippine panel spokesperson stressed.

He added that he expects more agreement on texts to be obtained on the next round of negotiations.

"During the (second round of) negotiations, we had clear understandings and language in key provisions including protection of the environment, the prohibition on nuclear weapons, the implementing agencies of the agreement, the types of areas and facilities that would be subject to the agreement, we had further discussions on other issues which will require us a little more negotiation," Sorreta emphasized.

Both sides earlier agreed that joint exercises and activities under a Framework Agreement will require the approval of the Philippines and will be mutually beneficial to the individual and collective defense capabilities of the two countries in furtherance of Article II of the Mutual Defense Treaty.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=567235

DSWD-12, OPAPP completes 14 community peace projects in N. Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 18): DSWD-12, OPAPP completes 14 community peace projects in N. Cotabato

The national government has completed 14 community infrastructure projects worth P4.88 million in parts of North Cotabato province that were implemented under its flagship peace and development program Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or PAMANA.

Gemma Rivera, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Region 12 assistant regional director, said Wednesday the projects comprise the first batch of “community peace initiatives” that were completed by the agency in the region under the PAMANA program.

She said they were implemented by DSWD-12 in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

The completed “community peace projects” are now benefiting residents of various villages in the municipalities of Arakan and Libungan in North Cotabato.

“The projects are aimed to improve access to basic social services while at the same time promoting accountable governance,” Rivera said.

Rivera said among the newly completed projects in Arakan are the solar dryers in villages of Anapolon, Malibatuan, Kulaman Valley, Kinawayan and Ganatan.

New multi-purpose halls were also put up and now being utilized by residents of Salasang, Kabalantian, Gambudes and Datu Mantangkil, she said.

In Barangay Poblacion’s Maria Caridad and Doroluman districts, Rivera said they completed the construction of line canals and a road concreting project.

“These projects would benefit 5,351 households in the area,” she said.

In Libungan, the official said new street lights and water systems were installed in Barangays Poblacion and Kapayawi, and are now benefiting 1,253 households.

In the coming months, she said they expect to complete 16 more projects in Arakan and 18 in Libungan.

The projects are implemented through the DSWD’s poverty-reduction program Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), utilizing the community driven development as strategy.

“PAMANA is not just about social infrastructure projects, along the process, it also fostered peaceful relations between and among communities and helping addressing conflict in the conflict affected and vulnerable,” Rivera said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=567031

MILF: Propaganda actions should not cost lives

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 18): MILF: Propaganda actions should not cost lives

“Propaganda activities should not involve unnecessary loss of lives.”

Such was stressed by Moro Islamic Liberation Front vice chair for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar on the botched plan of the Moro National Liberation Front–Nur Misuari faction to hoist their flag at the Zamboanga City hall.

He described the Zamboanga siege as an unwarranted form of propaganda.

“The sentiments of the MNLF-Misuari faction could have been expressed in a diplomatic manner considering the forging of the 1996 GPH-MNLF final peace agreement,” Jaafar said.

Jaafar also stressed that there is nothing that “Brother Nur” should be envious about the MILF if it is currently talking peace with the Aquino administration as the MNLF has long reaped the rewards of their final accord with the government.

“I have heard that Brother Nur is jealous with us talking peace with government. We have long struggled side-by-side for the recognition of the Bangsamoro people in Mindanao so there is nothing to be resentful about that,” he said.

The late Hashim Salamat, then MNLF vice chairman, broke away from the Misuari-led MNLF organization in 1997 to form the MILF due to ideological differences.

Despite the split, both Moro fronts worked for the recognition of the Bangsamoro people in Mindanao.

However, Misuari, apparently displeased by the purported snail-paced implementation of the peace gains of the 1996 accord, declared Bangsamoro independence in Sulu last August 12.

Misuari’s statement signaled his loyal armed followers to storm Zamboanga City on Sept. 8 in a bid to hoist the MNLF flag and claim the area as part of their Bangsamoro state in Mindanao..

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=567181

Day 10: Fire breaks out in Sta Catalina

From Rappler (Sep 18): Day 10: Fire breaks out in Sta Catalina



CONSTRICTED? A fire breaks out in Barangay Sta Catalina. Photo by Richard Falcatan

Another fire broke out Wednesday, September 18, in Barangay Sta Catalina as the bloody siege entered its 10th day.

Two soldiers were killed in clashes Tuesday night, bringing to at least 101 the number of people killed in the 10-day standoff between the government and followers of Moro National Liberation Front founder Nur Misuari.

As of Wednesday, a total of 164 civilians earlier trapped in the battle zone have regained their freedom. But the siege has already displaced 126,000 residents now living in 30 evacuation centers in the city.

In a press briefing in Manila on Wednesday, officials of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines said that flights to and from the city will resume on Thursday, September 19.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/39209-day-10-fire-breaks-out-sta-catalina

Rebellion charges vs MNLF's Misuari faction

From Rappler (Sep 18): Rebellion charges vs MNLF's Misuari faction

The government is readying rebellion charges against followers of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari who has attacked and shut down Zamboanga City for 10 days now.

"Seventy have been formally charged under inquest proceedings. This act is still continuing. Additional names may be included under the information until everybody has been impleaded," said deputy regional state prosecutor Peter Medalle on Wednesday, September 17.

Medalle said Justice Secretary Leila De Lima issued Department Order No. 636 designating a special panel of prosecutors to handle the inquest and preliminary investigation of the cases against the city's attackers.

Inquest procedure has started and the prosecutor's office has "resolved to file" charges against a number of the 70 MNLF currently detained. They are still collecting evidence to charge the others.

"These will be filed by our office as soon as the courts and the office of the prosecution are open," Medalle said.

Another batch of 23 MNLF forces surrendered to Zamboanga City police chief Senior Supt Juan Chiquito Malayo on Tuesday evening. This brings to 93 the total of MNLF rebels in government custody.

READ: 23 MNLF surrender to Zambo police chief

 

Based on government estimates, there are about 50 MNLF rebels remaining in the "areas of interest." Armed Forces public affairs chief Lt Col Ramon Zagala Jr said the rebels are contained to 30% of the original battle zone. He said the remaining 30% is a challenge because it is a "built up" area.

Climaco's call for justice

Zamboanga City Mayor Maria Isabelle "Beng" Climaco Salazar stressed that she wants cases filed against the rebels.

"I want a long-term solution [from] this probe. I cannot allow the repeat of any of this nor the repeat of the 2001 Cabatangan experience," she said. She was referring to a similar standoff where the military allowed the rebels to escape in exchange for the safety of the hostages.

"I stand firm with President PNoy's pronouncement that charges shall be filed and justice shall be claimed for those whose lives are wasted in this atrocity. Let perpetrators go to jail and never be allowed to go back to our city," she said.

Affidavits of hostages

Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas II said, aside from rebellion, the MNLF members will also face charges of murder and illegal possession of firearms, among other additional crimes.

"An additional charge will be violation of Republic Act 9851 or the International Humanitarian Law. They used civilians as human shield," Roxas said.

 

Police Gen Francisco A. Uyami Jr of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group said they will use affidavits executed by the released hostages as evidence against the rebels.

"We are using these statements [and] crime lab results," said Uyami.

The Philippine National Police said it has collected 159 sworn affidavits to strengthen government's case against the rebels that shut down Zamboanga City.

Medalle said key witnesses against the MNLF rebels may also avail of the witness protection program if they are afraid.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/39236-rebellion-charges-versus-rebels-misuari-faction