More than 300 police firearms missing in Sulu

From GMA News (Aug 6): More than 300 police firearms missing in Sulu

A total of 335 long and short firearms issued to police personnel in Sulu were discovered missing after a region-wide internal audit was recently conducted by the Police Regional Office in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (PRO-ARMM).

According to the audit report sent by PRO-ARMM to the PNP leadership in Camp Crame, 1,880 firearms were issued to the Sulu Provincial Police Office (PPO) since last year for its 1,223 uniformed personnel, which means 657 extra firearms issued to the province.

But during the internal audit, PRO-ARMM regional director Chief Superintendent Noel Delos Reyes said only 50 Class A light weapons and 272 small arms were found at the Provincial Supply Accountable Office. The remaining 335 listed by Sulu PPO in its inventory are missing.

"The [Sulu] provincial police is yet to account for 335 firearms listed in its inventory. But they could not be found," Delos Reyes said.

The region-wide audit also revealed discrepancies in firearms distribution, with 228 police personnel in the ARMM found to have more than one issued firearm, contrary to the Philippine National Police's 1:1 police-to-firearm ratio policy.

The PRO-ARMM has already recalled 737 firearms to be reissued to other police offices in the region, especially in Maguindanao, which needs 638 firearms.

However, the PRO-ARMM also found out that the serial numbers of most of the recalled firearms have been defaced or tampered with.

According to the PRO-ARMM report, the serial numbers of 134 Class A weapons (M16, M14, M203) and 46 handguns have been tampered with, while 28 long firearms have defaced serial numbers.

Based on the inventory, 6,741 long and short firearms were issued in the ARMM over the years. The ARMM currently has 6,513 police personnel.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/373658/news/regions/more-than-300-police-firearms-missing-in-sulu

Despite delay in Bangsamoro Law, AFP confident of peace talks

From the Philippine Star (Aug 6): Despite delay in Bangsamoro Law, AFP confident of peace talks

The military is optimistic that the delay in the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) would not cause security problems.

Brig. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, chief of the Army’s 6th division, said they have maintained a good relationship with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“Our coordination with the MILF leadership is good. No one was openly saying they are disenchanted,” Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan claimed that the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro has improved the situation in Central Mindanao.

“The flow of economic development has been good and investors are coming in. If the agreement is implemented as a law, things will be better,” he said.

Pangilinan said the situation in the region is okay even as he noted that bandits from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters are still engaging in skirmishes with security troops.

The MILF has earlier expressed optimism about the prospects of the BBL even if the endorsement of the measure to Congress has been delayed.

MILF said it would be better for the two sides to continue the path of peace rather than go back to where they started.

In March, the government and the MILF inked the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the document that will serve as the basis of the BBL.

The Bangsamoro Transition Commission submitted the draft of the BBL to Malacañang last April.  A legal team from the Office of the President was tasked to review the draft law before endorsing it to Congress.

The government originally planned to endorse the draft law to Congress in May but the deadline was not met.

The military has vowed to hold dialogues with Bangsamoro communities while the government and the MILF are finalizing the draft law.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/08/06/1354594/despite-delay-bangsamoro-law-afp-confident-peace-talks

MILF denies mining activity in Mindanao

From the Philippine Star (Aug 7): MILF denies mining activity in Mindanao

There is no truth to reports that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front is engaged in mining activity in any part of Mindanao, including this city, an MILF leader said yesterday.

Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chairman, expressed dismay over the alleged incident, which could imperil a peace agreement that the group signed with the government for the creation of the Bangsamoro region.

“Mining is not part of MILF’s agenda and our people are not engaged in such activity,” Jaafar told a local radio station here in reaction to an allegation by the city government that MILF men, led by a certain Bob Jumadil, conducted mining exploration in Barangay Baluno last July 31.

Jaafar said the city government should have first verified the report with them to determine whether the group involved really belongs to MILF or merely using the name of the organization.

Jaafar said while mining is allowed provided they first secure legal documents, the group does not tolerate any of their members to engage in this activity.

The MILF’s reaction came after Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar brought the case before Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Teresita Deles.

Climaco-Salazar said Deles ordered the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostility to look into the allegation.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/08/07/1354554/milf-denies-mining-activity-mindanao

Defense of Japan 2014 (Annual White Paper)

From the Ministry of Defense, Japan (Aug): Defense of Japan 2014 (Annual White Paper)

The Defense White Paper that has been referenced in a number of articles recently is posted to the Defense Ministry's Website at the following URL: http://www.mod.go.jp/e/publ/w_paper/2014.html

http://www.mod.go.jp/e/

Army, BIFF clash anew in Maguindanao town

From ABS-CBN (Aug 6): Army, BIFF clash anew in Maguindanao town

MAGUINDANAO - The military clashed anew with the the breakaway group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Barangay Ganta, Shariff Saydona Mustapha town, Maguindanao late Tuesday evening.

According to the 6th Infantry Division, the firefight ensued after the patrol base of the 61st Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC) in Barangay Ganta was harassed by undetermined number of armed men believed to be members of the BIFF at around 11:45 p.m.

The military said the rebels also strafed the patrol base of the 62nd DRC in Sitio Dam, Barangay Damabalas in Datu Piang, Maguindanao at around 7 a.m. Wednesday.

Prior to the two harassment incidents, an explosion occurred around 300 meters away from the patrol base of the 61st DRC on Monday night.

The military said the blast may have been caused by an improvised explosive device intended for the troops passing by the area.

No casualty was reported in the explosion as well as the clashes.

But the chairman of Barangay Damabalas warned residents living near Barangay Ganta to refrain from going to their farmlands for now.

Some residents of Barangay Ganta were moved to the nearby village of Bakat, Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

It was during Ramadhan when government troops and BIFF bandits last figured in sporadic firefights in Barangay Ganta, a former stronghold of the rebel group.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/08/06/14/army-biff-clash-anew-maguindanao-town

3 soldiers hurt in clash with NPA rebels in Davao del Norte

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 6): 3 soldiers hurt in clash with NPA rebels in Davao del Norte



TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Philippines—Government troops on Wednesday clashed anew with communist rebels in Kapalong, Davao del Norte, leaving three soldiers wounded, military officials said.

Troops were still scouring the scene of the encounter for possible New People’s Army casualties following a 30-minute firefight in the upland barangay (village) of Gupitan, said Col. Harold Cabreros, the commander of the Army’s 1003rd Infantry Brigade.

Cabreros said soldiers from the 60th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat patrol when they ran into an undetermined number of communist rebels in Sitio Aninipot around 9:55 a.m., sparking an intense firefight.

Wednesday’s clash was near the site of last week’s landmine blast and encounter that left two government troops killed and six others wounded, Cabreros told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone.

The recent clashes in Davao del Norte’s frontier village with Bukidnon “only confirmed the presence of the illegal, abusive and violent NPA,” said Capt. Ernest Carolina, 10th Infantry Division public affairs chief.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/626994/3-soldiers-hurt-in-clash-with-npa-rebels-in-davao-del-norte

Mining claim by alleged MILF group irks mayor

From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Aug 5): Mining claim by alleged MILF group irks mayor

Mayor Beng Climaco issued a renewed appeal enjoining both government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to support and respect the ongoing peace process finalization.

 

“We appeal to all parties to please respect the ongoing finalization of the peace accord,” said the chief executive, who issued the appeal in the wake of reports of intrusion of some alleged MILF members in Barangay Baluno.

 

Reportedly, the alleged MILF members sought to obtain samples of mineral products in Baluno on July 31, stating that they were already given authority to mine in any part of Mindanao.

 

This claim, Climaco noted, was refuted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Ging Deles when the City Government, through the City Legal Office, brought the matter to the attention of the OPAPP.

 

“This, according to her [Secretary Deles], is unacceptable and nowhere allowed nor authorized under the peace agreement. We will not tolerate such disturbances to the peace process, she added,” Climaco said, quoting Secretary Deles’ response which was sent via text message.

 

Climaco also relayed that the OPAPP Secretary confirmed that the GPH Committee on Cessation of Hostilities has already been directed to immediately look into the reported matter, and that MILF commands in the region have been asked to cease all activities that could jeopardize the peace process.

 

“As of latest, Secretary Deles informed me that she has raised the issue with the MILF counterpart in charge of Western Mindanao, Malik Karil, who in turn has coordinated and advised Bob Jumadil, the Chair Political Committee of the MILF in the City to stop all activities that could irritate city officials, and could adversely affect the ceasefire and the peace process,” said Climaco.

 

Meanwhile, OIC City Police Director Sr. Supt. Angelito Casimiro assured that continuous monitoring for potential intrusions in the City, as well as the validation of all incoming reports, are being conducted.

 

He added that police forces are also coordinating with the Task Force Zamboanga, specifically the MBLT 11, and the Division Reconnaissance Company, to maintain peace and security in the City.

 

http://zamboangatimes.ph/zamboangatimes/top-news/11720-mining-claim-by-alleged-milf-group-irks-mayor.html

CPP: CPP sees planned AFP camp in Rio Hondo, Zamboanga will host US troops

Propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Aug 6): CPP sees planned AFP camp in Rio Hondo, Zamboanga will host US troops

Communist Party of the Philippines

 

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today called into question the planned construction of a new P3.2 billion military camp of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Zamboanga City. The CPP said it is likely that the camp is set to host and provide security for US soldiers and military hardware.

“There is ample reason to believe that the planned AFP camp, which will also provide space for the police and the Coast Guard, is nothing but a new US military base, to be constructed in accordance with the recently signed Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) where the US will be allowed to set up facilities in so-called ‘agreed locations’ within AFP camps,” said the CPP.

The AFP’s Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City has long served as the headquarters of the US Pacific Command’s 700-strong Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P). The JSOTF-P started reducing its forces last June and is scheduled to shut down its operations by the end of 2014. US military presence and operations in the Philippines, however, are set to be stepped-up over the next several years with the recent signing of the EDCA. The US is eyeing several strategic locations in the Philippines for the deployment of its troops and war materiel, including naval ports in Palawan and Zamboanga.

The planned construction of a new military camp was announced by AFP chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang who claimed that the new camp will help deter armed attacks in the future, referring to the entry of MNLF fighters in Zamboanga in September 2013 which preceded the AFP’s three-week all-out siege. The military camp will be constructed in Barangay Rio Hondo, a coastal town where tens of thousands of people were forced out last year by the AFP’s shelling and aerial bombing.

“The people of Zamboanga vigorously oppose the planned construction of a camp in the land where once stood their homes,” said the CPP. “It is a grave insult to the people of Zamboanga that the AFP will build a camp where AFP bombs and artillery fire destroyed homes, mosques, commercial stores, buildings and other structures where tens of thousands of people live and work.”

“Recall how the AFP unleashed excessive force and spent millions of pesos in bombs and bullets to systematically raze to the ground several residential barangays and drive away hundreds of thousands of people area in the name of ‘forcing out the MNLF’ in a dispropritionate use of firepower,” said the CPP.

At least 120,000 people from the villages of Rio Hondo, Sta. Barbara, Lustre, Mariki and Campo Muslim were driven away from their homes and forced to stay in evacuation centers. Over the next few months, the people were prevented from returning to their homes and their sources of livelihood.

“It is now becoming increasingly apparent that the all-out siege launched by the AFP in Zamboanga City last year was carried out with the objective of driving away the people from their homes in order for the city government of Zamboanga to claim the land for commercial and military purposes,” said the CPP.

While tens of thousands of families suffered in subhuman conditions in evacuation centers, the city government of Zamboanga proceeded to parcel out the lands for commercial infrastructure projects under Aquino’s public-private partnership program. A large part of the land has also been allotted to the AFP.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140806_cpp-sees-planned-afp-camp-in-rio-hondo-zamboanga-will-host-us-troops

CPP-NPA propaganda officer nabbed in Iloilo

From GMA News (Aug 6): CPP-NPA propaganda officer nabbed in Iloilo

A high-ranking official of the communist News People's Army (NPA) was arrested by the military and the police in Jaro, Iloilo early Tuesday morning, the Armed Forces of the Philippines announced on Wednesday.

 

AFP spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala identified the arrested NPA leader as Eduardo Almores Esteban who carries the aliases “Bonnie”, “Benny” and “Pilo”.

 

Zagala said Esteban was the director of the communications bureau of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) Central Committee. He said Esteban was also the former secretary of the CPP-NPA Ilocos Cordillera Regional Party Committee.

 

“His arrest will pose a great blow to the CPP-NPA whose leadership has been successively arrested after the capture of the Tiamzon couple last March," Zagala said.

 

Benito Tiamzon and his wife Wilma, chairman and secretary general of CPP-NPA, respectively, were arrested by the military in Cebu last March.

 

Esteban was arrested at Landheights Subdivision in Barangay Buntala, Jaro, in a raid conducted by the police and the military by the virtue of a warrant of arrest for a murder case issued by Bangued, Abra Regional Trial Court Branch 2.

 

"The ranking NPA leader reportedly owns and supervises several businesses in the city while his comrades are still in the mountains living a life full of hardships, and being misled to the violent path," Zagala said.

 

He said the military intelligence operatives as well as the 301st Brigade under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Arnold Quiapo has been conducting intelligence and pursuit operations for months leading to Estaban's arrest.

 

"The operation is in line with (AFP chief ) General Catapang’s instruction to finish-off insurgency and claim the peace in rural communities to achieve progress and prosperity," said Zagala.

 

He said Esteban will be brought to Abra to face the murder case against him.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/373674/news/regions/cpp-npa-propaganda-officer-nabbed-in-iloilo

Army’s First Infantry Division assures loyalty to duly constituted authorities

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Army’s First Infantry Division assures loyalty to duly constituted authorities

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur – Army’s First Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Gerardo Barrientos, Jr. has assured the public of their loyalty to the duly constituted authorities.

Barrientos’ assurance is in reaction to the recent statement of Senator Antonio Trillanes, IV that retired generals affiliated with former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo are plotting a coup against President Benigno Simeon Aquino, III.

“The officers and men of the First Infantry Division will remain steadfast and loyal to the constitution, to the duly constituted authorities, to the flag, to the country, and to the people,” Barrientos said in a text message Wednesday.

Barrientos said the AFP is a professional, disciplined and non-partisan organization citing “we will always be focused on our mandate of protecting the people and the state. With this, there is no reason for the military to join any destabilization plot.”

Barrientos’ command has jurisdiction over five infantry brigades and a task force and these are the following: 101st Infantry Brigade, Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte; 102nd Infantry Brigade, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay; 103rd Infantry Brigade, Marawi City; 104th Infantry Brigade, Isabela City, Basilan; 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Iligan City; and, Task Force Zamboanga, Zamboanga City.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=669927

Maguindanao Army strategy puts BIFF 'immobilized'

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Maguindanao Army strategy puts BIFF 'immobilized'

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- The military’s strategy to deploy troops near areas known to be the area of operation of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was proven to be effective that the bandits could not launch harassment on civilians and commuters in Maguindanao, an Army spokesperson said.

For failure to move around with impunity, the bandits could only try to drive away soldiers sent by Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th ID chief, before the fasting month ends to thwart any attempt of destabilization by BIFF guerillas.

Frustrated BIFF guerillas fired anti-tank rockets and assault rifles on soldiers deployed in Barangay Ganta, a village known to be BIFF stronghold, located in the borders of Datu Piang and Shariff Saydona, according to Colonel Dickson Hermoso.

Speaking for the 6th ID, Hermoso said the BIFF’s plot to harass the military at the end of fasting month last July 29 was prevented with the deployment of the military forces.

Shortly after the BIFF fired rockets toward military positions, the Army immediately returned fire, forcing the bandits to flee to the marshland of Maguindanao.

“We can only surmise that they want to take back their camp there, which is now guarded by our soldiers, and where the Philippine flag is raised everyday to show it is under government control,” Hermoso told reporters.

He said the BIFF were "immobilized" with Army presence in Barangay Ganta, thus they failed to launch harassment against the Army after Ramadhan and against civilians whom they are mulcting with revolutionary taxes.

No reported casualty in the harassment by the BIFF but the series of evening rockets fired by the bandits caused panic among the local residents who have gone tired of armed conflict in their communities.

”They scare villagers, some of whom happened to be their relatives by blood or by affinity,” he said.

The BIFF, which broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) following the botched signing of Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain in 2008, is not covered by the GPH-MILF ceasefire.

When the 6th ID deployed troops backed by armored personnel carriers in Datu Piang, it was misinterpreted by the MILF who reacted by saying the soldiers were meant for them.

After the military issued clarification it was not for them but for the BIFF, the MILF accepted it.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=669995

Army’s 303rd IB to celebrate 28th founding year

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Army’s 303rd IB to celebrate 28th founding year

The Philippines Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade based in Negros Occidental will hold thanksgiving rites on August 8 to mark its 28th founding anniversary.

This year’s anniversary theme is “303rd Brigade: Kaagapay ng mga Negrense sa Bayanihan Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran.”

The program, to be held at its headquarters in Camp Major Gerona in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia, will be highlighted by the giving of awards and citations to its Bayanihan partners for their support in their peace and development activities in the province.

The guests of honor will be led by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. and Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, commander of 3rd Infantry Division.

Col. Jon Aying, commander of 303rd IB, said they will acknowledge the participation of their partners in the implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan.”

The IPSP Bayanihan advocates the “whole-of-nation” approach, or the involvement of all stakeholders in addressing the internal security challenges in Negros Occidental.

Marañon himself was conferred the Bayanihan award by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for his full support to the peace and development activities of the Philippine Army.

Other activities during the day include the blessing of the 303rd IB covered court and a wreath-laying rites at the Gerona monument.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=669994

GPH–MILF peace panels gaining progress in finalizing text of draft BBL

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): GPH–MILF peace panels gaining progress in finalizing text of draft BBL

Now on its 6th day, the government (GPH) and the Moro Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels are gaining progress in finalizing the text of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), although the panels have yet to go back to some contentious issues before the 10-day meeting closes.

GPH peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said discussions on issues in the draft BBL that needed to be reviewed after Malacañang returned the document is moving ahead and many issues were considered closed.

On April 22, the Bangsamoro Transitory Commission submitted the 97-page draft BBL but was returned by Malacañang on June 21. The return sparked concerns among the MILF member panel because the document reportedly left little space for the attainment of a Bangsamoro autonomy.

While there are points that need detailed review, Ferrer was positive that every point was explained why some recommendations were pushed by the Malacañang review team. She said that as both panels understand each other, they are able to find solutions, emphasizing that it is the essence of the process.

Ferrer said they are moving fast on every issue and go back only to contentiousness ones with the assistance of independent lawyers, which both panels requested to review and advise.

The GPH-MILF panels have been meeting since Friday at the Waterfront Insular Hotel to discuss what other details they can put in and how BBL can be operationalized within the bounds of the Philippine constitution.

She said the draft BBL will undergo a detailed review on legality and constitutionality and other issues like inclusiveness, social justice, and principle of upholding the right of governance are balance.

Ferrer disclosed that there are 18 articles in the draft and some have been closed.

He said bulk of the review is on power sharing which is translated to three articles such as on structure of government, powers of government and inter-government relations; the annex on wealth sharing in a number of articles like fiscal autonomy, economy, patrimony and rehabilitation issues.

Ferrer said the review will be completed within a month and re-submitted to the Office of the President for certification as urgent/priority bill by President Benigno Aquino III to Congress for the legislative process.

She is optimistic that the draft BBL will pass Congress within the year at the minimum.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=670031

Bid opening, submission for DND's RHIB project reset to Sept. 10

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Bid opening, submission for DND's RHIB project reset to Sept. 10

Bid opening and submission for the Department of National Defense's RHIB (rigid hull inflatable boats) project has been reset to Sept. 10 instead of the earlier date of Aug. 13.

This was announced by Special Bids and Awards Committee-2 in a supplemental bid bulletin posted at the DND website.

The contract is worth P63,159,000 and includes an integrated logistic supports for the craft.

The RHIBs are for the use of the Philippine Navy.

The money will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Funds.

The RHIBs will be used for "maritime interdiction and GOPLAT takedown missions."

The craft must be able to cruise at speeds of 45 knots, withstand and still be functional at Sea State 4, and capable of carrying 14 passengers (including four crewmen).

Interested bidders must have completed a similar project within the last 10 years and must be able to deliver the RHIBs within 180 calendar days from the issuance of the notice to proceed.

Bid opening and submission will be held at the Philippine Veterans Administration Office (PVAO) Conference Hall, Andres Bonifacio Hall, PVAO Compound, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=669834

Additional C-130s to beef up PAF's disaster response capabilities

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Additional C-130s to beef up PAF's disaster response capabilities

The arrival of two more Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo aircraft will greatly increase the Philippine Air Force (PAF) disaster response capabilities.

"It's a welcome development, (the) additional C-130s will definitely increase our capability to respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster response operation requirements," Air Force spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said Wednesday.

Earlier, the United States Department of State has approved the "Foreign Military Sale" (FMS) of two former US Navy C-130Ts to the Philippines.

The Philippines presently operates three C-130s in its air fleet.

Sale of the aircraft would amount to USD61 million.

US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) head Vice Admiral Joseph Rixey earlier informed the US Congress through House Speaker Joseph Boechner about the Philippine government's request for the two C-130 cargo planes.

"The Government of the Philippines desires these additional C-130s to bolster its lift capabilities, which are essential for providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief," it stressed.

"The Philippines will use this increased lift capability to improve the mobility and resupply of its forces and for the provision of humanitarian assistance in the Philippines and the wider region, thereby reducing the potential level of US assistance requested/needed for these purposes," the DSCA further said.

The Philippine sale package is for "two C-130T aircraft and 10 T56-16 engines (eight installed and two spares).

Also included are logistical sustainment and support for a period of three years, modification equipment and labor costs, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, aircraft ferry support, personnel training and training equipment, US government and contractor logistics and technical support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support.

The DSCA said the proposed sale would contribute to US security and foreign policy goals by building the Philippines' maritime domain security capacity and deepening US' overall strategic partnership with the Philippines.

Sources earlier said that the Philippines needs a minimum of 10 C-130s to allow it to address its humanitarian assistance and disaster response and cargo missions efficiently.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=669897

PHL aims to create Bangsamoro entity with passage of Bangsamoro law in Q1 2015

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): PHL aims to create Bangsamoro entity with passage of Bangsamoro law in Q1 2015

Malacanang on Wednesday said the government may still have sufficient time to put in place the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) even with the passage of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) by the first quarter of 2015.

“I think at first quarter, you would have a plebiscite and then you would have the BTA. Now, it comes to a question of capacitating the governance institutions and the governance resources in the Bangsamoro Juridical Entity. That would be emphasized more as we draw near to 2016,” said Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a Palace press briefing.

BTA is the body that will serve as the temporary mechanism for the leadership in the Bangsamoro during the transition process.

Lacierda stressed this in response to a statement of House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. that Congress may not be able to meet its deadline to pass the BBL by December amid delay in the submission of the draft of the proposed law.

Nevertheless, Lacierda expressed optimism that the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) could expedite the process.

He said both parties are now in discussion to ensure they forge a common BBL.

“They’re working hard on submitting it as soon as possible... It creates a concern on capacity building when it is not submitted on time and it is not in accordance with the timetable,” Lacierda said.

The Palace earlier said it hopes Congress to pass the bill before the year ends.

“Everyone is conscious of the fact that this is an important measure from government and therefore, this should be attended to as soon as it is submitted to Congress for deliberation,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=669961

Central Mindanao security situation still stable -- 6ID Cmdr

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Central Mindanao security situation still stable -- 6ID Cmdr

Despite some delays being experienced in the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), the security situation in Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)-controlled areas in Central Mindanao is still stable, 6th Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan said Wednesday.

"The security situation in Central Mindanao is very good albeit we (still) have some skirmishing (with members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and bandits ) in Reina Regente (Datu Piang, Maguindanao). These people are harassing our troops based in Reina Regente," he said in Filipino.

The 6th Infantry Division commander stated that this attacks are just meant to derail the ongoing peace talks.

Pangilinan stressed that they are still to monitor disenchantment from MILF ranks in their area of operations.

"Our relations with them (MILF) are still good," Pangilinan stated.

The 6th Infantry Division chief added that he also does not see the MILF, despite the slowdown in the BBL passage, becoming a security threat.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=669977

ISAFP chief says there is huge possibility that JI bomb expert 'Marwan' still alive

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): ISAFP chief says there is huge possibility that JI bomb expert 'Marwan' still alive

Armed Forces of the Philippines Intelligence Service (ISAFP) commander Major Gen. Eduardo Ano on Wednesday said there is a huge possibility that Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) bomb expert Malaysian Zulkifli bin Hir alias "Marwan" is still alive.

The ISAFP chief based his claim on "consistent reports" which reported sighting of Marwan in Cotabato allegedly conducting meeting with their allies.

"We have sources claiming to have met Marwan (in Cotabato) and there was no really concrete evidence that would show that he was killed during the military offensive, I think two years ago," Ano stressed.

The military earlier reported that Marwan, together with another JI operative, Singaporean Mohammad Abdullah Ali a.k.a "Muawiyah", were killed in the Feb. 2, 2012 airstrike by the Air Force in Sulu.

Claims of Marwan surviving the attack surfaced anew after Abu Sayyaf Group commander Khair Mundos, under interrogation, admitted that Marwan is still alive.

Mundos was arrested by the ISAFP and Philippine National Police (PNP) during operations in San Isidro, Paranaque last June 11.

Meanwhile, Ano said the possibility that Marwan is still alive will not affect the AFP's anti-terror campaign, adding that the military is still conducting intensified, focused intelligence operations against the remaining JIs in the Philippines.

He estimates the remaining JIs to be around 10 to 12.

The Malaysian terrorist arrived in the Philippines in 2006 to help the ASG in bomb making.

The US government has placed a bounty of US$ 5 million on the JI operative's head.

Ano also placed the remaining number of ASG to 400.

He, however, said that ISAFP still does not have information on whether Marwan and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have formed an alliance.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=670009

Ranking NPA leader bagged in Iloilo City operations by military, police

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 6): Ranking NPA leader bagged in Iloilo City operations by military, police

Troopers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) together with their counterparts from the Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested a ranking New People's Army (NPA) leader in Iloilo City on Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, AFP public affairs office chief, identified the arrested rebel as Eduardo Almores Esteban.

Zagala said Esteban was nabbed in Barangay Buntala, Jaro, Iloilo City by virtue of a warrant of arrest for murder issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 2 in Bangued, Abra.

Esteban is the director of the Communications Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA. He was also the former secretary of the Ilocos Cordillera Regional Party Committee of the CPP-NPA.

Zagala said Esteban's arrest is a great blow to the CPP-NPA whose leadership weakened after the capture of the Tiamzon couple last March.

AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. congratulated 301st Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Arnold Quiapo, who supervised the serving of the arrest warrant, and the operatives of AFP Intelligence Service and PNP who painstakingly pursued the leads for months leading to the arrest.

The operation is in line with Catapang’s instruction to finish-off insurgency and institute peace in rural communities to achieve progress and prosperity.

The arrested NPA leader will be transported to Bangued, Abra to face charges.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=669992

Philippines: 'Triple action plan' can help China

From Rappler (Aug 6): Philippines: 'Triple action plan' can help China

The Philippines asserts its new proposal to resolve South China Sea disputes after China said it 'can build what it wants' in the disputed waters


'MORATORIUM' SOUGHT. The Philippines wants a moratorium on activities that raise tensions in the South China Sea. This image dated Feb 25, 2014 shows China's reclamation activities in the disputed waters. Photo courtesy of DFA

Saying its proposal can also help China, the Philippines asserted its new triple action plan (TAP), which includes a moratorium on aggressive activities in the disputed South China Sea, after Beijing rejected Manila's bid.

The Philippines said at least 3 countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) – Vietnam, Indonesia, and Brunei – support the TAP that the Philippines is set to propose at the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM) in Myanmar this week.

“We will continue to raise our TAP proposal at the coming AMM and related meetings in Myanmar in order to manage tensions in the area for the sake of regional peace and stability,” Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Charles Jose said Tuesday evening, August 5.

“We believe that our framework proposal is positive, constructive, and comprehensive, and will be beneficial to everyone in the region, including China,” Jose added.

'Up to China'

The DFA was responding to China's statement “that it can build what it wants in the South China Sea."

Reuters attributed this statement on Monday, August 4, to a senior Chinese official.

“The Spratly Islands are China's intrinsic territory, and what China does or doesn't do is up to the Chinese government. Nobody can change the government's position,” said Yi Xianlang, deputy head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry's boundary and ocean affairs departments, according to Reuters.

Yi also made an apparent reference to the Philippines, which China earlier slammed for planning to build an airport in the South China Sea even as the Southeast Asian country called for a moratorium on provocative activities.

Yi said: “Why is it that when other countries wantonly build airports, nobody says a word? But China has only this year started small and necessary construction, to raise living conditions on the islands – and so many people raise doubts.”

China is conducting reclamation activities in the South China Sea as part of its "expansion agenda" that hinders peace and stability in the region, according to Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario.

'Moratorium on specific activities'

The Philippines' TAP, which it formally introduced to the public on August 1, aims to curb activities that raise tension in the South China Sea.

It also serves as a “more concrete definition” of the ASEAN-China Declaration of Conduct (DOC) of Parties in the South China Sea, a 2002 statement to maintain peace in the disputed waters.

The DFA explained that the TAP is composed of an immediate, an intermediate, and a final approach to resolve South China Sea disputes.

The immediate approach is to call for “a moratorium on specific activities that escalate tension in the South China Sea.”

The intermediate approach is to highlight “the need and call for the full and effective implementation of the DOC and the expeditious conclusion of the Code of Conduct,” a binding document to replace the DOC.

The final approach is to underscore “the need for a settlement mechanism to bring the disputes to a final and enduring resolution anchored on international law” – a move that the Philippines took when it filed a historic case against China in 2013.

The DFA said Friday: “The Philippines hopes that the claimant states, other ASEAN countries, and the ASEAN dialogue partners will favorably consider this proposal as it is comprehensive, constructive, and brings together various initiatives that the Philippines and other countries have been advocating on the issue of the South China Sea for the past years.”

http://www.rappler.com/nation/65415-philippines-triple-action-plan-china

PH military downplays Abu Sayyaf allegiance to ISIS

From Rappler (Aug 6): PH military downplays Abu Sayyaf allegiance to ISIS

Intelligence chief Major General Eduardo Año says it may be an Abu Sayyaf ploy to seek financial help


LOYALTY TO THE ISLAMIC STATE. Senior Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon swears allegiance to ISIS

The Philippine military's spy chief downplayed the video of senior Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon swearing an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State, formerly known as the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq or ISIS.

Major General Eduardo Año, chief of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP), told Rappler it is a case of the Abu Sayyaf giving "moral support" to the jihadist group and not the other way around.

"It does not bother us....It does not mean anything because hindi naman magpapadala ng fighters ang ISIS dito sa atin. May sarili silang problema doon (ISIS will not send fighters here because they have their own problems there)," Año said in a phone interview on Wednesday, August 6.

It may be a ploy to seek financial support, he said. "Matagal na kasing walang financial support ang ASG (The ASG has not been receiving financial support for a long time). That is why they resorted to kidnapping."

Año also said the military does not feel threatened by the video. "It doesn't matter, actually, as long as there are no physical forces, additional manpower, financial support or bomb components that will be sent to the Philippines," he said.

The video uploaded in July shows Hapilon and several masked men swearing their oath of allegiance to the IS. The US Rewards for Justice Program has offered a reward of up to $5 million for the arrest or conviction of several Abu Sayyaf leaders, including Hapilon.

It is the 3rd video to show Muslim Filipino militants pledging allegiance to the IS. Australian-born ISIS supporter Musa Cerantinio was also arrested in Cebu in July and was shortly deported.

Año denied reports that Filipino fighters have joined the ISIS.

The Abu Sayyaf previously joined the Black Flag Movement to symbolize its support for Al Qaeda and the Indonesia-based Jema'ah Islamiyah, but Año said the local terrorist group have not received support for a long time, forcing them to focus on kidnapping. (Read: Al-Qaeda's black flag seized in ASG camp)

The military has stepped up operations against the Abu Sayyaf – said to be around 400. Año said there is an ongoing manhunt for Hapilon who was supposedly last spotted in Basilan in July.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/65465-abu-sayyaf-isis-downplayed

Arrested Filipino militant: Terror suspect alive

From the Associated Press (Aug 6): Arrested Filipino militant: Terror suspect alive

 

FILE - In this Friday, June 20, 2014 file photo, a Philippine police officer escorts Abu Sayyaf extremist group leader Khair Mundos, right, after his arraignment at courts inside a police camp in Taguig City, south of Manila, Philippines. The captured Abu Sayyaf commander has told investigators that a top Southeast Asian terror suspect, who the military reported was killed in a U.S.-backed airstrike two years ago, is alive and being harbored by a hardline Muslim rebel group in the southern Philippines, a confidential police report said. (AP Photo/Mark Cristino)

 

 

FILE - In this photo released by the Philippine National Police Public Information Office (PNP-PIO) in Manila, Philippines, Khair Mundos, a top commander of the Abu Sayyaf extremist group who is in the U.S. list of most-wanted terrorists is booked by police following his capture near Manila's international airport Wednesday, June 11, 2014. The captured Abu Sayyaf commander has told investigators that a top Southeast Asian terror suspect, who the military reported was killed in a U.S.-backed airstrike two years ago, is alive and being harbored by a hardline Muslim rebel group in the southern Philippines, a confidential police report said. (AP Photo/Philippine National Police Public Information Office)

 

A captured Abu Sayyaf commander told investigators that a top Southeast Asian terror suspect, who the military reported was killed in a U.S.-backed airstrike two years ago, is alive and being harbored by a hardline Muslim rebel group in the southern Philippines, a confidential police report said.

 

Abu Sayyaf commander Khair Mundos, who was arrested by police near Manila's international airport on June 11, acknowledged his group has fallen into disarray, without a central leader, burdened by infighting and surviving largely on extortion and kidnappings, according to a police interrogation of Mundos, a copy of which was seen by The Associated Press on Wednesday.

 

Mundos's account echoes military and police assessments of the Abu Sayyaf, which they said has been weakened and isolated in remote jungle patches in the south by more than a decade of U.S. military-backed Philippine assaults.

 

The U.S. State Department says Mundos is a key Abu Sayyaf leader and financier who was captured in the southern Philippines in 2004 but escaped from jail three years later. While in police custody, he acknowledged having arranged the transfer of funds from the al-Qaida terrorist network to the Abu Sayyaf to finance bombings and other terrorist attacks in the south, the State Department said.

 

The Abu Sayyaf "has no central leadership," Mundos was quoted in the report as saying, adding the militants "do not have direction" and are "engaging in extortion and kidnapping activities only to sustain their daily needs."

 

Mundos said he traveled last year to a hinterland encampment of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement, a hardline separatist group, in southern Maguindanao province where he met Marwan, a top Malaysian terror suspect whose real name is Zulkifli bin Hir.

 

Marwan was with a Singaporean militant named Muhamda Ali, who uses the guerrilla name Muawiyah and another foreign militant, Amin Baco, Mundos said.

 

Mundos said he went there to visit a local Muslim rebel commander, spend the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan and serve as a religious instructor to two batches of rebel recruits, who were undergoing bomb-making training.

 

Mundos described Marwan as a "silent man" while he said Muawiyah, a computer expert, was a friendly militant who wandered from hut to hut like "a politician."

 

A separate police intelligence report obtained by The AP quoted informants as saying that Marwan visited a local militant's residence in Maguindanao with security escorts in April.

 

Marwan, who is on the FBI list of most-wanted terrorists and has a $5 million bounty on his head, was reported by the military to have been killed, along with Muawiyah, in a Feb. 2, 2012, Philippine airstrike on an Abu Sayyaf encampment in southern Sulu province.

 

The military has said it was aware of intelligence reports that Marwan survived the airstrike but would not change its statement that he was killed without convincing proof that he is alive. A military acknowledgement that Marwan is alive is crucial because it would allow the resumption of funding to efforts to track and capture him.

 

The Abu Sayyaf is burdened by infighting, Mundos said in the report, adding he was at odds with a younger commander, Puruji Indama, in their base in southern Basilan province.

 

http://bigstory.ap.org/article/arrested-filipino-militant-terror-suspect-alive

After 2 years, PH military says Marwan is likely alive

From Rappler (Aug 6): After 2 years, PH military says Marwan is likely alive

Rappler executive editor Maria Ressa reported in 2012 that Marwan escaped the airstrike – a joint operation with the US – that targeted him and fellow JI leaders


BLAST SITE. Sitio Lanao Bato, Sulu. Picture taken at 12:12pm on February 2, 2012

The Philippine military confirmed the possibility that one of Southeast Asia's top Islamic militants was alive, more than 2 years after jubilantly declaring he had been killed in a US-backed airstrike.

Malaysian bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir, better known as Marwan, was recently seen in Cotabato province in the southern Philippines working with about a dozen remaining JI members in the Philippines, Intelligence Service chief Major General Eduardo Año told reporters on Wednesday, August 6.

"As far as we are concerned, there is a big possibility that Marwan is still alive.... There have been consistent reports of his presence in the Cotabato area. We have sources telling us they met him," said Año, confirming an Associated Press report citing a testimony of a captured Abu Sayyaf commander.

It was the first time for the military to officially share its information on Marwan surviving the airstrike in February 2012.

Rappler executive editor Maria Ressa reported in March 2012 that Marwan escaped the airstrike – a joint operation with the US – that targetted him and fellow JI leaders. (READ: US smart bombs used in Sulu attack and How 2 JI terrorists survived bomb attack)

"There was no concrete evidence that would show he was killed during the military offensive 2 years ago. We cannot declare he is dead but there are a lot of indications that he is still alive," Año said.

He said the military has been "doing intensified and focused operations" against the remaining JI members in the country

Zulkifli is regarded as an expert bomb maker and a senior leader of Jemaah Islamiyah who first went into hiding in the southern Philippines in 2003.

In 2007 the US government offered a $5-million reward for his capture, making him one of the United States' most-wanted men.

The military said in February 2012 that Zulkifli was among 15 members of the Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah organisations killed in an airstrike on the southern island of Jolo.

Another top Jemaah Islamiyah member, Singaporean Mohammad Ali, alias Muawiyah, was also declared killed in the airstrike, along with a Filipino leader of the Abu Sayyaf.

"This is a big victory. There were three senior leaders (killed). This will have a very big impact on the capability of the terrorists," then-regional military commander Major General Noel Coballes said at the time.

Shortly afterwards, Malaysia expressed doubts about the purported killings but the Philippines' then military spokesman insisted all three were dead.

"Yes, its an A-1 (information). We have something but we cannot divulge all the other information because its an operational (secret)," Arnulfo Burgos, Zagala's predecessor, said at the time.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/65468-marwan-jemaah-islamiyah-alive

BIFF fighters harass Army detachments in Maguindanao

From InterAksyon (Aug 6): BIFF fighters harass Army detachments in Maguindanao

After weeks of relative silence after the deaths of their alleged second in command and 16 other members last month, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters struck again, harassing Army detachments in Datu Piang town, Maguindanao since Monday night.

BIFF spokesman Abu Misri Mama said their fighters attacked the detachment in Barangay Ganta Monday night and another outpost around 8 p.m. Tuesday.

He said they would continue their attacks until the military abandoned its camps.

6th Infantry Division spokesman Colonel Dickson Hermoso confirmed the two incidents and said the holdout rebels, who broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, attacked another detachment early Wednesday morning.

Hermoso said no troops were harmed in the first two incidents and they are verifying if the latest harassment had caused any casualties.

He said the BIFF could be looking to recover their former camps, which are now occupied by troops of the Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion and the Marines’ 61st Reconnaissance Company.

Last month, the military said the BIFF’s second highest-ranking leader, known only as  “City Hunter,” was killed with four security aides -- Dris Salik, Mashud Ali, Nur Hassan, and Mantawil Kaliga -- and several other fighters after they attacked military detachments in Maguindanao.

The BIFF was organized by former MILF commander Ameril Umra Kato after he left the main rebel organization over disagreements with the direction peace talks with government were taking.

The BIFF has refused to give up its quest for an independent Islamic state in the southern Philippines.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/92727/biff-fighters-harass-army-detachments-in-maguindanao

MINDANAO PEACE IN JEOPARDY? | Palace bares more delays in BBL passage as MILF cries foul

From InterAksyon (Aug 6): MINDANAO PEACE IN JEOPARDY? | Palace bares more delays in BBL passage as MILF cries foul

The historic peace settlement for Mindanao could be in danger of unraveling after Malacanang on Wednesday admitted the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law may be passed in the first quarter of 2015 instead of December and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front accused the government of going back on its word.

Even with the delay, Palace spokesman Edwin Lacierda said there would still be enough time to conduct a plebiscite on the creation of the new homeland and put in place the Bangsamoro Transition Authority next year, ahead of the 2016 elections.

"We are certainly still hoping for the best ... We hope we can expedite the process," Lacierda said in a briefing aired over state-run Radyo ng Bayan.

He said the leaderships of the Senate and House of Representatives were just being "practical" in extending the target period for the passage of the draft BBL.

'Time running out' - Speaker

On Monday, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said the continued delay in Malacanang’s submission of the draft BBL to Congress made it impossible to commit to the passage of the measure by year’s end.

"Time is running out. Moreover there are many congressmen from Mindanao who would be more concerned,” Belmonte said.

The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace panels are currently in Davao City working to break an impasse over the draft law, which is the result of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed by both parties in March to end decades of fighting in Mindanao.

A breakdown would risk a return to violence and a blow to hopes for an economic revival for resource-rich Mindanao as potential investors in sectors such as agriculture and mining wait on the sidelines for the peace deal to be implemented.

Large companies such as food processor Del Monte Pacific Limited, which has a pineapple plantation in Mindanao, had said they were considering expanding operations after the deal.

But most major foreign companies have held back pending evidence of a lasting settlement.

Under the pact, the MILF agreed to disband its guerrilla force and rebuild communities in exchange for wider powers to control the region's economy and society.

The joint Bangsamoro Transition Commission agreed details of the region's powers and relations with the central government this year, submitting a draft law for approval by Congress.

'Unacceptable'

But the hitherto smooth progress has stalled after Aquino's legal team made surprise, sweeping changes to the draft law which the MILF says contravene the earlier agreement and would place unacceptable limits on their autonomy.

"We cannot accept this proposed law as it is," Mohagher Iqbal, the MILF's chief negotiator, told Reuters.

"We will lose face if we agree to this. Their version clearly departed from the letter and spirit of the peace agreement, which was the basis in crafting the proposed law."

Iqbal's comments to Reuters are the first public indication that the agreement is close to collapse.

He said about 70 percent of the nearly 100-page draft BBL was either deleted or revised by Aquino's lawyers, who reviewed the document for two months after it was submitted in late April for vetting.

A copy of the revised legislation seen by Reuters showed entire sections of articles on territory, resources, and government structure had been deleted or revised.

Aquino’s capital fades

The peace deal -- including provisions on revenue sharing between the new region and the national government -- was the product of more than 17 years of negotiations, brokered by Malaysia since 2001.

Analysts say the law appears to have fallen victim to recent legal and political setbacks suffered by Aquino, whose approval ratings have dropped after his flagship Disbursement Acceleration Program was declared illegal by the Supreme Court last month. He faces three impeachment complaints in Congress.

That has made Aquino, whose presidency has two years to run, wary of a new battle with the high court that could arise if the BBL contravenes the Constitution.

"The President could have easily persuaded Congress to approve the Bangsamoro law if he still enjoyed a high popular rating. But he is facing a serious credibility problem because of his economic stimulus package," said Julkipli Wadi, a professor at the University of the Philippines.

The government's chief negotiator, Miriam Coronel Ferrer, denied the government had reneged on key pledges but said the proposed law had to be in line with the constitution.

"Let's not point fingers at each other," she said. "There were difficulties in the drafting of the law but the president is not afraid to gamble his political capital for this issue."

The revisions by Aquino's team seek to bring crucial elements such as resource sharing and taxation in line with the Constitution, making the proposed new autonomous region more dependent on the central government for economic policy and law making.

A higher degree of autonomy for the region could require Aquino to push for Charter change, which he is unwilling to do despite having large enough majorities in Congress.

Aquino has promised the autonomous region would be in place by January 2015. Following that, a referendum on whether to accept the new law will be held in Muslim Mindanao.

"The president should agree to amend the constitution and grant full fiscal autonomy, otherwise the rebels will reject this arrangement," said an independent lawyer who is involved in discussions to resolve the problem.

"The talks are getting harder. I am afraid the rebels will go back to war if this process fails."

Investments on hold

There have been no clashes between the MILF and the army since 2011, but tension remains high in a region that is rife with poverty, guns and extremist Muslim splinter groups that have resisted joining the peace settlement.

"Challenges on the ground are very real," Rommel Banlaoi, director at the Center for Intelligence and National Security Studies, told Reuters, saying some MILF commanders are getting impatient and unhappy with the delay.

More than 120,000 people have been killed and two million displaced by the conflict in western Mindanao, a Muslim majority area.

Renewed violence would wipe out the goodwill and increased business confidence since the March peace deal, said Ishak Mastura, head of the regional board of investments.

About P2.5 billion (£33.8 million) in investments were registered in Muslim Mindanao in the first half of 2014, the highest in its history, Mastura said. Investments rose to nearly 1.5 billion pesos in 2013 from 569 million pesos in 2012.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/92743/mindanao-peace-in-jeopardy--palace-bares-more-delays-in-bbl-passage-as-milf-cries-foul