‘Greatest escape’: Pinoy peacekeepers rescued after 7-hr clash with Syrian rebs

From GMA News (Aug 31): ‘Greatest escape’: Pinoy peacekeepers rescued after 7-hr clash with Syrian rebs

Filipino troops acting as United Nations peacekeepers in Golan Heights managed to escape unscathed from a seven-hour firefight with Syrian rebels, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Sunday.

The AFP said the Filipino troops took advantage of the rebels taking a rest to make their escape, radio dzBB's Rodil Vega reported.

"You could call it the greatest escape. Although they were surrounded and outnumbered, they held their ground for seven hours," AFP chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said in a press conference Sunday morning, parts of which were aired on dzBB.

He said the Filipinos escaped "in the middle of the night while they (Syrian rebels) were sleeping."

After the firefight, the Filipino peacekeepers have been repositioned, dzBB's Rowena Salvacion tweeted.
rowena l. salvacion @wengsalvacion    

AFP: nai-reposition na ang mga filipino peacekeepers na inatake ng Syrian rebels matapos ang 7hr firefight. @dzbb

7:25 PM - 30 Aug 2014

No casualty among the Filipino peacekeepers was reported following the firefight.
DZBB Super Radyo @dzbb       

Walang casualty sa panig ng Pinoy troops matapos ang pitong oras na pakikipagpalitan ng putok sa mga rebeldeng Syrian. | via @Rodveg72

7:25 PM - 30 Aug 2014

In a statement, Catapang said Syrian rebels initiated an attack on Position 68 at 11 a.m. Saturday, Philippine time.

"Our troops defended their position. The Syrian rebels attacked on-board pick-up trucks. Our peacekeepers returned fire in self-defense. Our troops fought back bravely and successfully held their positions. This attack prompted UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force) to reposition our troops to a more secure position within the mission area," he said.

He added the governments of Syria and Israel are supporting Filipino troops to uphold the integrity of the area of separation and to de-escalate the situation.

Catapang lauded the teamwork "demonstrated by our fellow UNDOF troop-contributing countries and the UN."

Other governments including the United States and Qatar also played a role in the safeguarding the Filipino peacekeepers, he added.

"Currently, Filipino peacekeepers from both Position 68 and 69 have successfully repositioned to Camp Ziuoani," he said.

In the meantime, Catapang said the AFP and UN will not compromise the safety and security of the Philippine troops while in the pursuit of their duties.

"It is in our national interest to prioritize their safety without abandoning our commitment to international security," he said.

"We commend our soldiers for exhibiting resolve even while under heavy fire. This manifests their determination to fulfill our commitment to the community of nations," he added.

Meanwhile, dzBB's Vega reported AFP public affairs head Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala maintained the Filipino peacekeepers are likely to stay until the end of their tour of duty in October.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/377130/pinoyabroad/news/greatest-escape-pinoy-peacekeepers-rescued-after-7-hr-clash-with-syrian-rebs

Golan standoff over; Filipino troops safe

From Rappler (Aug 31): Golan standoff over; Filipino troops safe

About 40 Filipino peacekeepers were able to escape while the Syrian rebels were sleeping

The standoff in Golan Heights involving Filipino peacekeepers is over, the military announced Sunday, August 31. There are no casualties.

About 40 Filipino peacekeepers who were earlier engaged by Syrian rebels in a 7-hour firefight were able to escape midnight Sunday (about 5am in Manila), Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr said in a press briefing at the Philippine military headquarters.

Catapang called it the "Great Escape." The troops in Position 68 were able to find an escape route while the while the rebels were sleeping. They met no resistance.

"Filipino peacekeepers from both Position 68 and 69 have successfully repositioned to Camp Ziuoani," the Philippine military said in a statement.

Firefight erupted 6am on Saturday (11 am in Manila) while negotiations were ongoing. "Our troops defended their position. The Syrian rebels attacked on-board pick-up trucks. Our peacekeepers returned fire in self-defense. Our troops fought back bravely and successfully held their positions," it added.

Intermittent firefight lasted for 7 hours and stopped around dusk on Saturday. The Filipino troops under the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) escaped around midnignt.

Syrian rebels on Thursday surrounded encampments of Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights, demanding them to surrender their firearms. The refusal of the Filipino troops resulted in a standoff.

They were earlier ordered to stand their ground against the rebels, including some linked to Al-Qaeda's Syria affiliate, Al-Nusra Front.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United Nations will not compromise the safety and security of our troops while in the pursuit of their duties. It is in our national interest to prioritize their safety without abandoning our commitment to international security," Catapang said.

All troops are safe

The other group of about 35 Filipino peacekeepers in another UN post 4 kilometers away – Position 69 – were also able to extricate on Saturday. Irish peacekeepers helped secure the escape route.

The standoff happened UN posts located in central Golan. As contingency measure, a 3rd group of 58 Filipino peacekeepers in a post in northern Golan also evacuated their posts and consolidated at the UNDOF headquarters.

UN chief Ban Ki-moon strongly condemned the attack on UN peacekeepers, by non-state actors he said included the Al-Nusra Front, Ban's spokesperson said.

Ban also called for the immediate release of the Fijian peacekeepers who had been detained, a call echoed later Saturday by a Security Council resolution.

"We are still working towards the safe release of the detained 44 Fijian peacekeepers," it added.

The Filipino peacekeepers defied the rebels because they did not want to meet the same fate of the Fijian peacekeepers who were taken hostage after they surrendered their firearms.

The tour of duty of the Filipino peacekeepers ends in October. Catapang said the troops will finish it.

The incident happens as the Philippine government is finalizing the pullout of troops in Golan Heights, citing the escalating internal conflict.

Last year, Syrian rebels also abducted 2 separate groups of Filipino peacekeepers. They were eventually released unharmed.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/67726-filipino-peacekeepers-evacuated-golan-heights-united-nations

Filipino peacekeepers extricated and repositioned to safer grounds after Golan Heights attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 31): Filipino peacekeepers extricated and repositioned to safer grounds after Golan Heights attack

After the attack of Syrian rebels in Filipino positions at the Golan Heights Saturday morning (Syria time), the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) has successfully extricated and repositioned the Philippine contingent in a more secure location.

This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Sunday.

Yesterday, (Aug.30) at around 6 a.m. Syrian time (11 a.m. Philippine time), Syrian rebels initiated an attack on Position 68. Our troops defended their position. The Syrian rebels attacked on-board pick-up trucks. Our peacekeepers returned fire in self-defense," he added.

"Our troops fought back bravely and successfully held their positions. This attack prompted UNDOF to reposition our troops to a more secure position within the mission area," the AFP chief stressed.

Currently, Filipino peacekeepers from both Position 68 and 69 have successfully repositioned to Camp Ziuoani.

Catapang also added that Filipino troopers are being supported by the Syria and Israeli governments in their mission to uphold the integrity of the area of separation and to deescalate the situation.

"The teamwork demonstrated by our fellow UNDOF troop-contributing countries and the UN is exemplary. Other governments including the United States and Qatar also played a role in the safeguarding our peacekeepers," he pointed out.

Catapang said the AFP and the United Nations will not compromise the safety and security of its troops while in the pursuit of their duties.

He added that it is our national interest to prioritize their safety without abandoning our commitment to international security.

"We commend our soldiers for exhibiting resolve even while under heavy fire. This manifests their determination to fulfill our commitment to the community of nations," Catapang concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=678519

1st Sumisip Youth Leadership Summit draws commitments for peace, environment protection

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 29): 1st Sumisip Youth Leadership Summit draws commitments for peace, environment protection

Young people here have committed themselves to working for peace and development as well as for environmental protection during the first Youth Leadership Summit held last August 22 to 24 at Tumajubong this town.

This historic event served as a venue for the youth to speak out their minds on the current issues affecting their town and express their take in the overall peace and development of Basilan.

On the first day, Nagdilaab Foundation Executive Director Miriam Suacito led participants to self-discovery sessions. The Philippine Information Agency, meanwhile, handled the second day with sessions on leadership and Climate Change Advocacy activities. The PIA-ZBST-produced 30-minute video documentary was shown as basis for discussion. Through role playing the youth illustrated the impact of climate change on the community.

An Ustadz and a priest were also present to share views on inter-faith dialogue. The Municipal Social Welfare Office also presented government programs and interventions to address poverty. At the culmination activity, young people drew their vision of peace and development in their community.

Through the initiative of the 64th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Tumajubong, Sumisip, some 140 youth coming from 22 of its 29 barangays for the first Youth Leadership Summit at Tumajubong National High School.

Lt. Col. Melisan Raymund N. Recaido INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 64IB,1ID expressed his gratitude to Mayor Gulam S. Hataman and all those who supported and helped make the event possible.

“Our aim of this activity is for the youth to develop their potentials to become responsible citizens of the community and that the youth will become our partner and [be] the catalyst of our pursuit for peace and development of Sumisip,” Recaido told participants.

The youth underwent three days life skills seminar on personhood, leadership, communication skills, peace and development, and Climate Change Resiliency Advocacy.

Mayor Hataman cited the efforts and role of the 64th IB Philippine Army in maintaining the peace of the municipality. He also lauded the contribution of the 104th Brigade in TARBIDCI cooperative when it faced certain problems.

In his message, Col. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista INF (GSC) PA, Commander, 104Bde, 1ID, PA recalled Gat Jose Rizal’s famous line that “the youth is the hope of the fatherland” as he posed the question whether the participants still look at themselves as they are expected to be.

“Do we still believe in this? Let us not forget this. Malaking challenge ito sa ating mga kabataan kung paano nila ipapakita at mapapatunayan na sila ay pag-asa ng bayan (This is a great challenge to our youth to prove that they are truly the hope of the fatherland),” Bautista said.

He said that this activity also sought to empower the youth to become leaders who, at the same time, mobilize their peers. He stressed that a leader who works with his/her team must show respect for the members to emulate, and that leaders must encourage collective decision so that there is a sense of ownership. “I urge the youth to lead by example,” he concluded.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1421409281152

Sajahatra Bangsamoro boosts sustainable farming and livelihood prospects in Zambo Sibugay

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 31): Sajahatra Bangsamoro boosts sustainable farming and livelihood prospects in Zambo Sibugay

Villagers of Barangay Datu Tumanggon in this town has received a boost in their livelihood opportunities, through  the Sajahatra Bangsamoro, a joint, initial socioeconomic development initiative of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

On Tuesday, August 26, the Sajahatra Bangsamoro Program (SBP), through the Department of Agriculture (DA), distributed substantial farm inputs and conducted post-harvest trainings to the Moro and non-Moro residents of the barangay.

The Datu Tumanggon community, heavily dependent on agriculture for livelihood and sustenance, had longed throughout the years for better means to cultivate and maximize their natural farm resources, eyeing long-term economic self-reliance.

“In the past, we could only dream of having a better source of livelihood here in Datu Tumanggon,” said Winnielyn Jainuddin, president of the local people’s organization known as Peace Loving People of Datu Tumanggon.

“High interest loan rates, along with the lack of financial windows for farmers to buy seeds and other tools to cultivate our lands, were major challenges to us villagers. With the free farm inputs provided to us by the Department of Agriculture under the Sajahatra program, those dreams can now be achieved.”

DA Assistant Secretary Edilberto M. de Luna led the distribution of farm kits, livestock, and seeds to the villagers in a symbolic turnover ceremony held at the barangay hall.

“We respect and recognize your aspiration for self-determination as Bangsamoro people,” De Luna told Datu Tumanggon locals, adding that the support does not end in providing seedlings alone, but will also involve farmer trainings to ensure the sustainability of the program within their communities.

DA’s livelihood assistance manifests the agency’s commitment to the Sajahatra Bangsamoro Program which aims to uplift Bangsamoro communities through the delivery of health, education and livelihood opportunities as initial dividends of peace.

De Luna said they are providing at least a thousand coffee seedlings, several vegetable seeds, and livestock to include 45 chickens, 21 goats, and two water buffaloes to enhance the agricultural activities in the village.

Tuesday’s event is the first among a series of livelihood distribution events that the DA is initiating in all 10 SBP beneficiary sites across Mindanao, which the joint Sajahatra team had identified.

Fair and equitable distribution

Jainuddin said the farm inputs and livestock will be distributed to the villagers. Each family will have a fair share of seedlings and the chance to breed the livestock.

“The impact of this program is huge. Considering how the level of living conditions here is so low, the program will certainly help each family here earn more,” she said.

For Merlyn Melindres, a Visayan settler who grew up in Datu Tumanggon, the potential for prosperity that they are being given now could not have been realized if not for the strong determination and sincere commitment of the Philippine government and the MILF to pursue the path to peace.

“The good thing about the Sajahatra Program is that it is not selective in terms of its beneficiaries. Even we Visayan members of the community can still gain from the program,” she shared.

Beyond economic advantages, the joint initiative also puts in effect a grassroots-level effort to cater to the political and historical rights of the Bangsamoro people in Mindanao.

“Muslims and Christians here share a mutual understanding. Their (Sajahatra program’s) purpose upholds this and promises to bring progress to our village. We, the people here, express our gratitude to them for coming down to meet our group,” Melindres added.

Jainuddin affirmed that the southern peace process between the GPH and MILF has not only created a peaceful environment in their area, but also enabled a significant improvement in the delivery of basic services.

“We have huge regard to the [GPH-MILF] peace process. It has provided us with better livelihood and education opportunities for our children. Now, we are even expecting a health center to be constructed in our village; we don’t have to travel far to get free medical services anymore. The [peace process] has truly uplifted the living conditions of the families here,” she said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1781409392295

US issues travel warning to Mindanao amid kidnappings

From the Manila Times (Aug 30): US issues travel warning to Mindanao amid kidnappings

Citing threats of violence and kidnappings, the United States embassy in Manila has warned American nationals to avoid traveling to the Southern Philippines.

The advisory came amid reports of the existence of a group of Muslim militants from Mindanao who joined and are being trained by the extremist group Islamic State (IS).

The rebel groups Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Abu Sayyaf have reportedly pledged allegiance and support to IS.

“The Embassy strongly reiterates the recommendation in our current travel warning that US citizens exercise extreme caution when traveling to Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, and to keep personal safety and security in mind during any stay in the southern Philippines,” the advisory said.

The US government reminded US citizens “residing in, or traveling to, the southern Philippines of the ongoing threat of violence and kidnappings in many parts of the region.”

“Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist groups and insurgent groups remain active in the southern Philippines, including many areas of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago,” the advisory said.

It said the kidnappings of foreigners by the Abu Sayyaf in neighboring Malaysia and by various groups in Mindanao “underscore the continuing threat.”

“Despite recent movement towards a political settlement in Mindanao, separatist and insurgent groups remain active, conducting bombings and attacking Philippine security forces,” the advisory said.

The US embassy was apparently referring to the peace process between the government and the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

http://www.manilatimes.net/us-issues-travel-warning-mindanao-amid-kidnappings/122891/

ARMM, OPAPP build ‘road to peace’ in Maguindanao

From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Aug 30): ARMM, OPAPP build ‘road to peace’ in Maguindanao

Officials on Thursday launched in Maguindanao two multi-million “roads to peace” projects intended to hasten the connectivity of Moro peasants to trading centers where they sell their farm products.

Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and his public works secretary, Hadji Emil Sadain, led the separate launching of the projects, the five-kilometer P70 million Mercedes-Buldon-Barira road, and the P70 million Marader-Talayan poblacion road in Maguindanao’s Barira and Talayan towns, respectively.

The groundbreaking rite for the two projects was preceded by Hataman’s ceremonial release, at the Office of the Regional Governor in Cotabato City, of equipment and capital assistance to seven farmers’ cooperatives that are recipients of various projects under the ARMM’s Health-Education-Livelihood-Protection Synergy (HELPS) Program.

The turnover of checks and equipment to officials of the seven cooperatives was witnessed by ARMM Vice Gov. Haroun Al-Rashid Lucman, Regional Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia and Makmod Mending, Jr., who is the region’s agriculture and fisheries secretary.

Sadain said the Barira road project will be bankrolled with an allocation from the ARMM’s infrastructure budget while the artery that would connect Talayan’s town center to Barangay Marader shall be funded jointly by the regional government and the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan Program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.

The five-kilometer concrete road project in Tayalan will interconnect more than a dozen agricultural enclaves where members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front dwell.

Maguindanao’s appointed deputy governor, Ramil Dilangalen, said the presiding chairman of the provincial peace and order council, Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu, had asked the Army’s 603rd Brigade and local MILF commanders to help each other secure workers involved in the “roads to peace” projects.

“This is a big help to our efforts to improve the lives of our constituents in areas that were scenes of bloody conflicts in the past,” Talayan’s former mayor, Hadji Ali Midtimbang, told reporters in Filipino.

Midtimbang, who is the traditional “grand datu” of Talayan, said they are also thankful to OPAPP for helping put up a five-kilometer concrete road designed to hasten the mobility of local Moro peasants.

Hataman said the two road projects could be completed possibly from between December this year to February 2014.

“The two recipient local government units have adequate road-building equipment needed for the concreting of these two roads,” Hataman told reporters.

The two projects are among more than a hundred which the regional government launched in recent months.

Sadain said the program of works and funding details for the two projects are open to scrutiny by the media and local civil society organizations.

http://zamboangatimes.ph/zamboangatimes/top-news/12066-armm-opapp-build-road-to-peace-in-maguindanao.html

MILF: BDA conducts Bangsamoro Development Plan Community validation in Western Mindanao

Posted to the MILF Website (Aug 30): BDA conducts Bangsamoro Development Plan Community validation in Western Mindanao



The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) Central Office, in Cotabato City conducted Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) Community Validations in Western Mindanao Region on August 12-14, 2014 attended by participants from three clustered areas of Isabela city, Yakan province and Basilan.
  

The team from BDA proceeded to Bongao in Tawi-Tawi and conducted another validation in the Provinces of Sama and Tawi—Tawi on August 17-18.

From August 20-21, the team conducted another validation in the Provinces of Northern Sulu, Central Sulu and Southern Sulu held at Notre Dame Learning center, Kasulutan, Jolo, Sulu.

BDA Board of Director Radzni Taalim, presented and highlighted the objectives of BDP plans. He emphasized that the BDA under the leadership of Executive Director Ustadz  Mohammad Suaib Ya’acob is in the process of consolidating all program outputs from the different Bangsamoro provinces. He stressed that BDP plan is in preparation for the future implementation of Bangsamoro new political entity.

Hajji Mahmur Estino, Provincial Chairman, Northern Sulu and Sulu Adhoc Committee delivered the opening remarks at the start of the program.



MILF Northern Sulu leader Estino and other MILF members of the provincial committee showcased the wealth of Tausug culture, from fruits, local delicacies and overall hospitality to their visitors who seldom visit Sulu; some of them have never experienced coming to the land of the famed and fierce Moro Warriors.

With open hearts, they shared their hopes for a better future.  The team expressed deep appreciations to the   leaders of MILF Sulu, Taw i-Tawi and Basilan for their support and cooperation in the conduct of the validations.  MILF Sulu further expressed its optimism that the activity will further enhance the knowledge and capabilities of people in Sulu in devising or formulating development plans.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1178-bda-conducts-bangsamoro-development-plan-community-validation-in-western-mindanao

CPP/NDF: Karangalan sa kabila ng mga duguang kamay ng 9th Infantry Division sa pagpatay at paglabag sa karapatang pantao sa Operasyong Musang ng Oplan Bayanihan sa Bikol

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Aug 22): Karangalan sa kabila ng mga duguang kamay ng 9th Infantry Division sa pagpatay at paglabag sa karapatang pantao sa Operasyong Musang ng Oplan Bayanihan sa Bikol

Maria Roja Banua
Spokesperson
NDFP Bicol Chapter

 

Ipinagmamayabang ng 9th Infantry Division sa pamumuno ni Major General Yerson Depayso ang pagkakakaroon daw ng best brigade award ang 903rd Infantry Brigade sa lahat ng mga brigada sa kabuuang mersenaryong AFP ngayong 2014. Nakamit ang mga award, promosyon at 2.5 milyong reward dahil sa pagkapatay daw sa isang Ka Cenon na BRPC member, pagkamartir ng dating tagapagsalita ng NDF Ka Greg Banares at pagkamatay ilang opisyal ng New People’s Army (NPA) sa tatlong (3) magkakasunod na labanan noong taong 2013-2014. Pagkakahuli daw ng iba pang mataas na opisyal ng NPA at ng bagong tagapagsalita na si Maria Roja Banua sa isang labanan sa Matnog, Sorsogon.

Malaking bahagi nito ay nilubid na kasinungalingan dahil ang bawat labanan na sinasabing “engkwentro” ay mga operasyon kubkob na dumadamay ng sibilyan at bumabalga sa batas-protocol sa digmaan. Ilan dito ay ang istatus ng pagiging hors de combat ng mag-asawang Greg Banares at Christine Puche, paglalagay ng maling identidad kay Ka Maria Roja Banua at gawa-gawang pagkamatay ni Ka Cenon sa labanan.

Sapilitang pang pinapapirma si Baranggay Captain Eddie Albor ng baranggay Cococabitan, Bulan, Sorsogon kapalit ng pagpapalaya sa kanya matapos itong dukutin. Di pa nakuntento nilagyan pa ng higit na matataas na ranggo ang mga martir na NPA para labasin na natapos na nila ang pamunuan ng NPA at makuha ang award sa tatlong (3) magkakasunod na labanan sa probinsya ng Sorsogon.

Sa Operasyon Musang 2014 ng 9th Infantry Division at 5th Scout Ranger Company sa ilalim ng Oplan Bayanihan ng rehimeng US-Benigno Simeon Aquino (US-BSA) ay lansakang paglabag sa karapatang pantao ang isinasagawa na bahagi ng kairalan ng pagiging mersenaryo at anti-mamamayan. Sinasaklaw ng Operasyon Musang ang tatlong probinsya ng Masbate, Sorsogon at Albay.

Sa Albay sa ilalim ng kampanya ng 0% insurgency campaign ni Governor Salceda at ng 9th ID PA inarmasan ng kalibre 45 bilang bahagi ng armadong tropa ang mga brgy captain. Kaalinsabay nito, Isinagawa ang serye ng pananakot, pambubugbog, panggigipit (8) at pamamaslang (1) sa mamamayang Albayano maliban pa sa maraming kaso di naitala na panghaharas sa tukoy na kapamilya ng NPA sa panahon ng kanilang paglulunsad ng mga CMO at operasyong militar.

Sa Sorsogon at Masbate pagpasok pa lamang ng taong 2014 naitala na ang maraming kaso ng pagpatay at paglabag sa karapatang pantao sa mga naunang nang inilabas na pahayag ng Celso Minguez Command, Jose Rapsing Command at ng National Democratic Front-Bicol.

Hindi kayang linisin ang duguang kamay ng 9th Infantry Division, Philippine Army sampu ng kanyang 3 undersize Brigada at 6-7 Batalyon kasama na ang 5th Scout Ranger Company na nagpapatupad ng Oplan Bayanihan ng rehimeng US-BSA. Hungkag ang mga bihis na programa ng CMO sa tulong ng ilang media consultant sa propaganda ng mga Civilian Military Operation na pinatampok na Youth Leadership Seminar (YLS), Outreach Program sa Orphanage, Bayanihan Forum sa Kabihug, Integrated Skills and Livelihood Training (i-SALT), Medical Mission, Operation Tuli, Brigada Eskwela at iba pang pakulo.

Mabubulunan si Major General Yerson Depayso sa kapangangalandakan na ang kanyang buong tropa sa Division ay mahigpit na nagtataguyod ng pagkilala sa karapatang pantao sa dineklarang na pagdiriwang ng Dibisyon sa Araw ng Pandaigdigang Batas sa Karapatang Pantao nitong Agosto 2014.

Nananawagan ang National Democratic Front (NDF-Bicol) sa mga ilang indibidwal na taga-midya, doktor, ahensya at yunit sibilyan ng gobyerno na huwag maging bahagi ng mga operasyon sa kontra-insurhensya at panatilihin ang pagiging opisinang sibilyan-pribado. Nawawala ang malayang pakikipag-ugnayan ninyo sa mamamayan dahil sa presenya ng unipormadong berdugo na naglalagay sainyo sa panganib.

Higit sa lahat, huwag magpagamit na instrumento ng Philippine Army para suhayan ang gobyernong Benigno Simeon Aquino na isang Pork Barrel King. Nagdudumilat ang katotohanan na ang pinagsisilbihan nito ay ang mga “Boss” na katauhan ng pamilyang Cojuangco-Aquino na bahagi ng malalaking burgesya komprador at panginoong maylupa sa bansa at nagkakanulo ng ating soberanya sa mga dayuhang imperyalistang Estados Unidos.

Pagbayarin ang 9th ID Philippine Army sa mga kaso ng paglabag sa Batas sa Digmaan at paglabag sa karapatang pantao ng mamamayan sa Kabikolan!!

Patalsikin ang rehimeng US-BSA sa matinding korapsyon sa Pork Barrel System, Pagpapahirap at panunupil sa mamamayan at pagtataksil sa ating soberanya para sa dayuhang interes!!

Isulong ang Digmang Bayan hanggang tagumpay. Mabuhay ang Rebolusyong Pilipino!

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140822_karangalan-sa-kabila-ng-mga-duguang-kamay-ng-9th-infantry-division-sa-pagpatay-at-paglabag-sa-karapatang-pantao-sa-operasyong-musang-ng-oplan-bayanihan-sa-bikol

CPP/NDF: Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes’s hyped falsehoods and denial about the NPA resurgence in South Cotabato

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Aug 29): Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes’s hyped falsehoods and denial about the NPA resurgence in South Cotabato

Ka Efren Aksasato
Spokesperson
NDFP Far South Mindanao Chapter

 

Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes is obviously trying to regain herself from embarrassment in announcing a fabrication that the New People’s Army guerillas operating in South Cotabato do not hail from the province. She reiterated this over a radio interview, adding a whooper that the guerillas come from impoverished areas in Compostela Valley devastated by the typhoon Pablo, and that the NPA rebels settle into her “economically flourishing” province in order to survive.

Upholding her diehard counterrevolutionary policy is the governor’s utmost assurance of her protection and subservience for the reactionary interests of the ruling power of the imperialists, comprador bourgeoisie and big landlords she is serving. She was co-architect of the local anti-insurgency program Oplan Purple Heart in 2004, thus it is would be a disgrace for her current administration to witness the transpiring upsurge of the revolutionary armed struggle after she had dismissed that it has become ineffective in her province.

Gov. Avance-Fuentes has a misunderstanding of the fact that South Cotabato is not alienated from the semi-colonial and semi-feudal Philippine society. As a result of the prevailing rule of imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism, a vast majority of the people is persistently suffering from poverty and abject living conditions. The intensifying oppression and repression under the rule of the despotic classes of the society begets social unrest, pushing forward for the people’s revolution. The governor must learn from the lessons of the history of the Filipino people, as well as the lessons of the struggles of the people of South Cotabato so as to realize this.

The boundless grounds for the people’s war disagree with the governor’s illusive proclamation that the revolutionary armed movement is off-limits within her province’s territory. The Red cadres and fighters of the NPA adhere to the principle of unbounded service towards the people and the revolution in responding to their deployment wherever their revolutionary tasks would take them. The existence and apparent progress of the revolutionary movement in a particular area basically rests on the decisive role and participation of the local masses.

Her allegation that the comrades abandon the disaster areas to look for greener pastures in her province is a boo-boo and makes no sense, but in a way it expresses the escapist attitude and callousness of self-centered officials on issues that confront their government. Such selfish thinking belongs to the looting AFP mercenaries who carry out military operations that hamper relief and reconstruction efforts of the masses, as well as the opportunist government officials who make use of the relief operations for their political propaganda while taking advantage of the people’s depressing situation to buff up their political ambitions.

The typhoon Pablo and other disasters that occurred had by no means caused setbacks in the advancement of the revolutionary movement and armed struggle in Compostela Valley and the revolutionary bases devastated by calamities. While the masses continue to suffer from the reactionary government’s neglect and indecisiveness, the NPA comrades are working with the people’s organs of political power in taking initial steps for the socio-economic reconstruction of their localities.

Wherever a calamity occurs, mass organizations undertake the relief and rescue operations and works on the rehabilitation and reconstruction while the Red fighters of the NPA organize themselves into rescue and relief brigades to assist the masses. Ensuring the welfare of the masses is the NPA’s priority. That is the real essence of serving the people, a stark contrast of the pretentious service vaunted by the reactionary bureaucrats such as Gov. Avance-Fuentes.

The “economic development” and bright economic data Gov. Avance-Fuentes vaunted in her recent SOPA was not to favor the vast majority of the people in South Cotabato. The coherent raising of poverty and hunger incidence is a contrariety to the province’s reputation as the food basket of the south being one of the largest producers of rice and corn in the country. Small rice farmers are heavily indebted to big rice traders-usurers who systematically monopolize their produce. Despite the province’s high yield of the staple product, consumers bear high prices of rice that costs up to PhP50.00 a kilo due to the monopoly in trading and distribution.

The settler and Lumad peasants continue to flounder in poverty as more and more are losing their land to large-scale mining operations, multinational agribusinesses, big landlord-usurers and plantation-owning big bourgeois compradors and bureaucrats. There is also a threatening reduction of food production in the province as a result of widespread crop conversion that caters to export crops. Within the last five years, thousands of hectares of irrigated rice fields have been converted to banana and pineapple plantations. In addition to this, large areas have become unproductive due to the bursting of rivers caused by mining operations, and the land destruction caused by quarrying.

South Cotabato workers employed in the industry and service sectors are among the lowest wage earners in the country. Their abject condition is aggravated by the highly exploitative and repressive labor conditions and the smashing of their labor unions become legitimate. Even the members of the middle class are affected by the rising prices of basic commodities and social services that include water, energy, health and education. The jobless work force is increasing in number as opposed to the vaunted numerous investments and job opportunities coming in.

The Avance-Fuentes administration’s so-called “development and economic growth” refers to the rapid expansion of imperialist agribusinesses, such as Itucho-Dole and Sumifru, and the exploitation of the mineral resources by the destructive mining companies, such as Sagittarius Mines Incorporated (SMI) and San Miguel Energy Corporation (SMEC). These companies reap super profits to the detriment of the fundamental rights and welfare of the Lumads, peasants, workers and the environment.

These are the concrete and factual conditions that burden the people in South Cotabato and hinder their realization of a genuine development that is nationalist, pro-people and pro-environment. These conditions create a healthy ground for the people’s revolutionary aspirations to thrive.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140829_gov-daisy-avance-fuentes-s-hyped-falsehoods-and-denial-about-the-npa-resurgence-in-south-cotabato

CPP/NDF: Patalsikin ang reaksyunaryong rehimeng US-Benigno Simeon Aquino! Paigtingin ang pagsusulong ng rebolusyon!

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Aug 29): Patalsikin ang reaksyunaryong rehimeng US-Benigno Simeon Aquino! Paigtingin ang pagsusulong ng rebolusyon! (Overthrow the reactionary US-Benigno Simeon Aquino regime!  Intensify the advancement of the revolution!)

Maria Roja Banua
Spokesperson
NDFP Bicol Chapter

 

Kaisa at kabahagi ang National Democratic Front-Bicol Region sa malawakang panawagan ng mamamayan na patalsikin ang reaksyunaryong rehimeng US-Benigno Simeon Aquino!!

Makatarungan lamang na muling gamitin ng mamamayan ang kapangyarihang magpatalsik ng isang rehimeng batbat ng korapsyon at panggagantso, hayagang naggagarantiya ng kontrata at tubo ng mga negosyo ng mga kroni at kanyang pamilya na tinatawag niyang “BOSS”. Higit sa lahat tiyakin na pagsilbihin ang mga ito sa interes ng malalaking dayuhang kapitalista at ng Estados Unidos.

Kagyat lamang na dapat patalsikin si Aquino dahil sa mabigat na kasalanan sa mamamayan sa loob ng apat (4) na taong panunungkulan.

Unang-una ang litaw na kaso ng masahol na korapsyon sa pamamagitan ng pork barrel, Disbursement Acceleration Program, Malampaya Scam na walang katulad sa kumpara sa mga nagdaaang rehimen.

Pinatunayan mismo ni Aquino ang pagiging “Hari ng Pork Barrel” at hinubaran ang sariling pinagmamaraling islogang ng “daang matuwid”. Pilit mang ibaling ang panggigipit sa kalaban sa pulitika ng kasong korapsyon lumilitaw pa rin ang katotohanan na ang nangunguna sa korapsyon ng pork barrel at DAP ay ang Presidente. Bago pa man ang State of the Nation Address (SONA) naitulak ng protesta ng mamamayan ang impeachment na naobliga ang Korte Suprema na ideklarang labag sa konstitusyon ang DAP at ang ginagawang pagtitipon at paglilipat ng pondong “natipid” ni Aquino sa ilalim ng DAP.

Lumitaw ang tunay na asal asenderong lango sa kapangyarihan nang hayagang akusahan nito ang korte at sinumang tumututol sa korapsyon na sagabal sa kaunlaran upang ipagtanggol ang sistemang pork barrel.

Nakorner ang hari ng pork sa panahon ng SONA kaya sandaling kumubli sa asal maamo at naiiyak na tupa habang hinihingi ang suportahan ng Kongreso para ipasa ang badyet 2015 na P2.606 trilyon. Nakapaloob pa rin ang DAP sa halagang P500B sa bagong katawagang “Lump-sum Appropriation” o LSA na sistemang pork pa rin. Upang madagdagan ang savings hinustipika at gumawa ng house bill para maging ligal kaalinsabay na mapalabnaw ang impeachment case. Naibasura ang impeachment case at walang kiber na nagpahayag na may pagmamaliit sa mamamayan na makakaliwa lang naman daw ang nagkakaso sa kanya.

Sa pagkakalantad ng PDAF bilang pork barrel system, itinago naman ito sa katawagang Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Process (GPBP) na dating tinawag na Bottom-Up-Budgeting (BUB) bilang pamalit sa PDAF.

Sinubok pang atrasan nito, ang matagal nang pagnanasang baguhin ang konstitusyon (charter change) upang makumpleto at mapanatili ang kanyang kapangyarihan. Sa kasawiang palad sinalubong naman ng matinding reaksyon ng mamamayan kahit ng simbahan at matapat na alagad ng 1987 konstitusyon. Nang mapaso sa charter change ay binalingan naman nito ang korte suprema na lagyan ng hanganan ang pagdedesisyon at hayagang itulad sa kongreso at senado na nagsisilbing rubbers stamp.

Higit makatarungan lamang na dapat patalsikin si Aquino dahil sa mahigit na mabibigat na kasalanan nya sa mamamayan sa loob ng apat (4) na taong panunungkulan.

1. Matinding pagwasak at pagpatay sa produksyon at lokal na merkadong agrikultural dahil sa ibayong pagpapatupad ng liberalisasyon sa agrikultura at kalakalan na nakaasa sa dayuhang kalakalan.

Sa rehiyon, pagsilbihin ang agrikulturang atrasado na tagasuplay lamang ng mga low-value added na hilaw na materyales tulad ng kopra, abaca at tubo sa negosyo ng mga burgesya komprador habang ginagawang tagakonsumo ng mga produkto ng mga ito. Sa paraan ng panlilinlang, isinapribado ang ALECO at CASURECO para sa interes ng San Miguel Energy Corporation na pag-aari ng mga Cojuangco.

2. Ibayong pagpapatindi, pagpapalawak ng kahirapan at kawalan ng katarungang panlipunan dahil sa kawalan ng tunay na industriyalisasyon at kawalan ng tunay na reporma sa lupa. Sampu-sampong milyon ang nagugutom, walang trabaho, tinanggal sa trabaho, inaalipin sa ibayong dagat, walang bahay, iskwater sa sariling bayan, mga inabandonang biktima ng kalamidad, walang mga serbisyong panlipunan dinarahas at sinisikil ang mga demokratikong karapatan. Tumindi pa ang kahirapan na dulot ng pagsirit ng presyo ng langis, bilihin, pamasahe, serbisyo, edukasyon, atibp. Milyun-milyong magsasaka ang bangkarote ang kabuhayan, binawian ng sakahan, pinatalsik sa tirahan. Samantala, ang ipinagyayabang na abereyds na 7% paglago ng pambansang ekonomya ay pagpapalago ng kayamanan ng mga komprador-burgesya, panginoong maylupa, burukratang kapitalista at mga imperyalista. Hungkag ang CARP, Carper, programa sa poverty alleviation tulad ng 4Ps, CCT, at job creation.

3. Lansakang pagpapakapapet at patuloy na pagsusuko ng rehimeng Aquino ng soberanya ng bansa sa imperyalismong US. Pagpasok sa panibagong kasunduang Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) upang ibigay ang buong laya (carte blanche) sa mga tropang Amerikano na gamitin ang ere, lupa at karagatan ng Pilipinas para sa kanyang mga ehersisyong digma at operasyong paniktik, at mistulang pag-aari at libreng gamitin nito ang mga base at kampo militar ng Pilipinas ng mga “nagrerelyebohang” pwersang Amerikano, at pag-iistasyon ng mga kagamitang pandigma ng US na nagsasapanganib sa seguridad ng bansa. Nagbasura ito sa desisyon ng Senado noong 1991 na nagpatalsik sa mga base militar ng US sa Pilipinas, pagkapit at pagpapairal ng Visiting Forces Agreement at Mutual Defense Pact, Military Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA), Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA).

Naglilingkod ito sa layon ng US na gamiting istratehikong forward military base ang Pilipinas sa kanyang adyendang “Pacific Pivot” at “New Pacific Century”, at isang base sa pagsusulong ng kanyang “malayang-kalakalan” sa programang Trans-Pacific Partnership nang hindi kabilang ang Pilipinas.

4. Paghahasik ng iba’t ibang anyo ng pasistang kalupitan sa mamamayan. Nagpapatuloy ang extra-judicial killings, pagdukot at pagmissing (desaparecido) sa mga aktibista, masa at hinihinalang mga kasapi ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan, paglabag sa mga karapatang tao sa kalunsuran at kanayunan, tuloy-tuloy na militarisasyon at mararahas na operasyong militar na nagdudulot ng malawakang HRVs, dislokasyon ng kabuhayan, pagkaiwan at pagkasira ng produksiyon, at pwersahang ebakwasyon sa mga magsasaka, setler at katutubong mamamayan. Nagpapatuloy ang Oplan Bayanihang “counter-insurgency campaign” ng rehimeng Aquino ayon sa US-COIN Guide ng 2009 laban sa mga progresibo at rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa bansa.

Sa rehiyon, Operasyong Musang sa ilalim ng Oplan Bayanihan ang ipinokos sa Masbate, Sorsogon at Albay na ibayong nagteterorisa ng mamamayan at lumalabag sa Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. Kaalinsabay nito, humahabi ng mga kasinungalingan at nagpapalaki ng kwento upang magkamit ng mga parangal ang mga matataas na opisyal ng 9th Infantry Division Spear sa pamumuno ni Major General Yerson Depayso.

Ang mga batayang ito ang higit na nagpapatalas sa kakagyatan at makatarungang kapasyahang patalsikin ang US-BSA ng mamamayan. Pinapalagablab ng patuloy na pagtatanggol sa katiwalian sa panibagong anyo nitong LSA at GPBP na ginagawang ligal ng Kongreso at Senado. Gumagamit ng awtoritaryan na kapangyarihang at nanunuhol upang tiyakin ang kontrol sa lehislatibo, ehekutibo at hudikatura at magsilbing palamuti na lamang sa sinasabing “demokrasya sa bansa”. Higit sa lahat tiyakin ang interes sa negosyo ng kanyang mga tinatawag na “Kayo ang Boss Ko”, ang pamilyang Cojuangco-Aquino-Kroni at Estados Unidos sa bansa Pilipinas at Asya-Pasipiko.

Patalsikin ang rehimeng US-Benigno Simeon Aquino sa kanyang katiwalian, pagyurak sa kasarinlan at pagiging inutil sa interes ng mamamayan!

Ibayong isulong ang digmang bayan hanggang sa tagumpay na syang magbibigay katuparan sa pagkakaroon isang lipunang tunay na maglilikod sa interes ng sambayanan at isang gubyernong tunay na may pananagutan sa kanyang mamamayan. Tangan ang tanging susing kawing sa pag-unlad ang pambansang industrisasyon at rebolusyonisasyon sa Agrikultura!

https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591&pli=1#editor/target=post;postID=8737190501352627129

New Army head for WV

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 30): New Army head for WV

Lt. Col. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, former commander of the 61st Infantry Battalion in southern Negros, is back in the Western Visayas, as a newly-promoted major general in the Armed Forces of the Philippines and commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division.

Guerrero, who served Negros as 61st IB commander from 2003 to 2005, will replace Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad as 3ID commander. Baladad is slated to head the AFP Eastern Mindanao Command on Sept. 5.

 

After his stint in southern Negros, Guerrero served as deputy commander of the Presidential Security Group, Task Force Davao chief, 701st Infantry Brigade commanding officer and presently the Army chief of Staff, military records show.

 

Guerrero is tentatively slated to assume command of 3ID on Sept. 10. As its incoming commander, Guerrero will supervise the internal peace and development of the Philippine Army in Negros and Panay islands.

 

Maj. Gen. Oscar Lactao, who also served as 303rd Infantry Brigade commander from 2011 to 2013, will assume command of the 4th Infantry Division in Cagayan de Oro. He is currently the AFP deputy chief of staff for Operations.

 

Lactao will replace Maj. Gen. Ricardo Visaya as 4ID commander. Visaya will take over the AFP Southern Luzon Command on Sept. 8.

 

Guerrero, Lactao and Brig. Gen. Angelito de Leon, incoming AFP deputy chief of Staff for Operations, are all members of PMA (Maharlika) Class of 1984.

 

Two other PMA ‘84 members, Colonels Jon Aying and Norman Flores, who also served the 61st IB unit in southern Negros, are now commanders of the 303rd and 1001st Infantry Brigades, in Negros Occidental and General Santos City, respectively.

 

AFP chief of staff Gen, Pio Catapang said Baladad and Visaya are known for their professionalism and dedication to duty.

 

Their campaigns to curb insurgency in their areas of responsibility have proven effective in preventing the enemy from conducting violence and atrocities against the people,” Catapang said.

 

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/August/30/topstory3.htm

Filipino peacekeepers in Golan: A 'battalion of excellence'

From Rappler (Aug 30): Filipino peacekeepers in Golan: A 'battalion of excellence'

The Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights belong to the 80th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. They went through rigorous retraining before they left the country in November 2013

 

'BATTALION OF EXCELLENCE': The troops in Golan Heights are well-trained and well-armed. November 2013 file photo before the group left for Golan

 

The 72 Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights are the pride of every Filipino soldier: they are living testaments of extraordinary courage.

You can joke all you want about the Vietnam War assets of the Philippine military, but trust that if it has to come down to battle, man to man, these soldiers will fight – if not for their country, for their life and their honor.

"I just like to emphasize that our troops are well armed. They are well trained before their deployment. They are well disciplined warrior peacekeepers," said Colonel Roberto Ancan, the commanding officer of the peacekeeping operations center in the Philippines. (READ: PH troops in Golan to defend posts vs rebels)

The peacekeepers belong to the 80th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, a group of soldiers in their 20s holding ranks of Private First Class or Corporal led by Colonel Ezra Enriquez and Lieutenant Colonel Ted Dumusmog, contigent commander and commander of the Philippine Battalion, respectively.

Prior to their deployment to Golan in November 2013, the entire battalion went through the Army's Battalion of Excellence (BOE) program. They were plucked out of their operational area in Mindoro – where they fought communist insurgents – to undergo months-long rigorous retraining in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. They got new firearms, too.

On Thursday, August 28, Syrian rebels surrounded the encampments of 75 Filipino peacekeepers in the central part of Golan Heights, demanding that they surrender their firearms. The soldiers of the 80th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army stood their ground, refusing to meet the fate of their fellow Fijian peacekeepers who were taken hostage after they surrendered their firearms.

The standoff is nearing Day 3 at 10 am Saturday morning, August 30, in Syria (3 pm in Manila). Morale of the troops remain high inspite of the difficult situation, according to an officer who was able to communicate with the troops Friday afternoon.

Rebels get bolder

In the Philippines, Filipino soldiers are beaming with pride. Their sentments have overflowed into their Facebook pages. There is confidence that like the 25 troops abducted in Golan Heights last year, the troops will be able to wiggle their way out of the situation and come home safe and complete. The United Nations (UN) is in backchannel talks to end the standoff.

The Filipino peacekeepers were out on patrol and were unarmed when they were taken by Syrian rebels last year. UN protocol discourages them from bringing their firearms around because the rebels would want those guns to fight government forces. They were eventually released.

The situation is different this time around. As the internal conflict in Syria escalates, the rebels have become bolder. They trooped to the encampments of the UN peacekeepers to demand their firearms. The Filipinos refused and the standoff began.

It would have been a harvest for the rebels. The troops are equipped with M4 assault rifles, M60 light machineguns, K3 squad automatic weapons, and Caliber 45 pistols.

The order to the troops is clear: Stand your ground. As members of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), the troops get their orders from the UN. In another post in northern Golan, the UN has ordered another group of 58 Filipino peacekeepers to leave theirs posts and consolidate at the UNDOF headquarters.

Ancan said the 72 troops in a standoff with the Syrian rebels are prepared to fight if it comes down to it. "They know the risks they have to face as soldiers. They are professional soldiers. It’s just part of the job. They are committed," Ancan told reporters.

Unlike last year, the troops can fight back. They are armed and are in a defensive mode. The encampment is also well fortified with a CCTV camera that can monitor movements of rebels outside the encampment.

The incident happens as the Philippine government is finalizing the pullout of the troops in Golan. The peacekeepers are only supposed to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and Syria in Golan Heights, a buffer zone between the two warring countries. The situation has chaged since the internal conflict in Syria erupted in 2011 however.

The Philippines already considered pulling out its Golan peacekeepers after the kidnapping incidents last year but was prevailed upon by the UN to stay inspite of continued withdrawal of countries like Australia, Croatia and Japan. Escalating internal violence prompted the new decision to pull out.

Warriors

Retired General now Defense Undersecretary Natalio Ecarma III, former Force Commander of the UN Continget to Golan Heights, is monitoring the situation closely.

"Rebels are rebels....I am concerned but I believe in our Filipino peacekeepers. They are experienced warriors and Filipino soldiers do not just easily give up their firearms," Ecarma told reporters Friday afternoon.

Inspite of the confidence that the rebels will not risk antagonizing the United Nations, there is a hushed recognition that the situation in Syria is deteriorating and the rebels they've made friends with last year may be different people today.

But there has been no firefight within the Filipino encampments, which officials interpreted as a good sign that the situation will be resolved peacefully.

The world awaits the peaceful resolution of the standoff. But soldiers are soldiers, too. Like the rest of the Filipino troops used to fighting and losing men in the country's own internal conflicts – the communist insurgency, the Muslim separatist groups, and terrorists, among others – the soldiers of the 80th Infantry Battalion are ready for this.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/67662-filipino-peacekeepers-golan

Filipino peacekeepers in firefight with Syrian rebels

From  Rappler (Aug 31): Filipino peacekeepers in firefight with Syrian rebels

(4th UPDATE) The Armed Forces of the Philippines says the Philippine peacekeepers remain safe 'at the moment'


'BATTALION OF EXCELLENCE': The troops in Golan Heights are well-trained and well-armed. November 2013 file photo before the group left for Golan

A firefight erupted between a group of Filipino peacekeepers and Syrian rebels, Philippine military chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr confirmed to Rappler Saturday afternoon, August 30.

This involves Position 68 where about 40 troops are deployed. The firefight erupted at 6 am on Saturday in Syria (11 am Manila time).

"There was a firefight but I'd like to assure everyone that our troops are safe at the moment," Philippine military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala told reporters 5pm on Saturday. He refused to elaborate.

"We are focusing on the safety of the troops," Zagala added.

The firefight was still ongoing as of 3 pm (8pm in Manila), according to the latest update of a source.

The other group of about 35 troops in Position 69 – located 4 kilometers away – was able to extricate, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin also told reporters.

On Friday afternoon, a third group of 58 Filipino peacekeepers were ordered to leave their posts in Position 60 located in the northern part of Golan to consolidate in the UNDOF headquarters in Camp Faouar. (READ: 58 Filipino peacekeepers leave post in Golan)

There are over 300 Filipino peacekeepers in 5 posts in Golan Heights. There is no available update on the other positions.

Catapang was supposed to hold a press conference at 4 pm to apprise the media on the latest developments. It was cancelled.

Zagala said negotions are still ongoing. (READ: UN in 'backchannel' talks to end standoff)

WAR ROOM: Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, General Gregorio Catapang Jr and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario monitor developments in Golan Heights. Photo courtesy of AFP-PAO

Around the time the firefight had reportedly begun, Malacañang said that President Benigno S. Aquino III was closely watching the situation in the Golan Heights and that there are “contingency plans” should the situation escalate.

Asked if the government has contingency plans in case the situation in the Golan Heights worsens, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in an interview on state-run Radyo ng Bayan, “We have contingency plans but we would leave it to the AFP to speak on the next possible next steps."

The peacekeepers in Golan Heights belong to the 80th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, a group of soldiers in their 20s holding ranks of Private First Class or Corporal led by Colonel Ezra Enriquez and Lieutenant Colonel Ted Dumusmog, contigent commander and commander of the Philippine Battalion, respectively.

Colonel Roberto Ancan, commander of the Philipine military's peacekeeping operations center based in Camp O'Donnel in Tarlac, assured of the readiness of the troops to defend their posts.

He said the troops are in a "well fortified" position. They are also well-armed and well-trained, equipped with M4 assault rifles, M60 light machineguns, K3 squad automatic weapons, and Cal. 45 pistols.

Prior to their deployment to Golan in November 2013, the entire battalion went through the Army's Battalion of Excellence (BOE) program. They were plucked out of their operational area in Mindoro – where they fought communist insurgents – to undergo months-long rigorous retraining in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. They got new firearms, too. (READ: Filipino peacekeepers in Golan: A battalion of excellence)

On Thursday, August 28, Syrian rebels surrounded the encampments of a total of 75 Filipino peacekeepers in two UN posts located at the central part of Golan Heights. The rebels demanded that they surrender their firearms but the Filipino troops stood their ground, refusing to meet the fate of their fellow Fijian peacekeepers who were taken hostage after they surrendered their firearms.

The incident happens as the Philippines is finalizing the pullout of Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights. Their tour of duty ends in October and no fresh troops will be deployed.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/67700-firefight-filipino-troops-syria

Philippines monitors embattled Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Aug 30): Philippines monitors embattled Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights



Philippine Defense and military officials during a video conference with Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights.

The Philippines continues to monitor the situation of dozens of embattled Filipino peacekeepers in Golan Heights following attacks Saturday by Syrian rebels at their enclave.

Filipino defense and military officials said there were no reports of casualties, but the attacks added to the already grave situation of the peacekeepers. Rebels earlier seized 43 Fijians peacekeepers after luring them to surrender their weapons.

Syrian rebels also demanded the Filipinos to surrender their weapons, but the soldiers flatly rejected the demand and stood bravely to protect their position.

Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces Chief General Gregorio Catapang were able to speak via video conference with Lieutenant Colonel Ted Damusmog, commander of the Filipino contingent, who briefed them about their situation in Golan Heights as the stand-off with rebels continued.

The Filipino and Fijians peacekeepers are part of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in Golan Heights which is now surrounded by rebels allied with al-Qaeda.

Catapang has expressed concern for the safety of the Filipino peacekeepers and the Fijian hostages, but said the “peacekeeping contingent has the right to defend its positions and their units in line with UN protocols and rules of engagement.”

“Our soldiers are prepared, trained, and capable of dealing with these situations and will take risks to fulfill our commitment to international security and peace,” he said.

He said the Armed Forces and the Department of National Defense are closely coordinating with UNDOF about the safety of the peacekeepers.

“We are in direct communication with our peacekeepers and with the UN Force Headquarters in the Golan Heights as options and contingency plans are being drawn and considered. The safety and security of our peacekeepers remain to be our paramount concern as they remain steadfast on their commitment to their mission,” he said, adding, they are exerting all efforts to ensure the safety and security of the peacekeepers.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said President Benigno Aquino is also closely watching the situation in the Golan Heights. She said the President also worries about the safety of the peacekeepers.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/08/philippines-monitors-embattled-filipino.html

Maguindanao police file charges vs. MILF commander for murder of comrade

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): Maguindanao police file charges vs. MILF commander for murder of comrade

Police have filed multiple murder charges against a commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front's (MILF) National Guard and his followers for the murder of another MILF commander and his village official-son in Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao last week, officials said Saturday.

MILF National Front Commander Saya, four of his followers were charged with double murder for the killing of MILF 106th Base Commander Bato and his son Sadam Kamad, the barangay chairman of Tugal, according to Senior Inspector Cesar Ibal, police chief of Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao.

Ibal said Commander Bato and Chairman Kamad were on board their motorcycle when they were ambushed by the suspects in a far-flung village of Sultan sa Barongis.

The ambush triggered a brief firefight between the ambushers and the victims’ followers, Cebal said.

Ibal said Commander Saya has been positively identified by about five witnesses who were about three meters away from the crime scene.

Following the ambush, several hundred families in Sultan sa Barongis have fled their homes for fear of more skirmishes involving MILF commanders and their followers.

Police were looking at clan war or “rido” (family feud) led to the ambush.

"The residents learned from villagers that reinforcement team for Commander Bato were sent to avenge his death,” Ibal said. “So if these two armed groups meet, surely they will trade bullets and civilians fear they might be caught in the crossfire,” he added.

Von Al Haq, MILF Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces spokesperson, said a directive has been sent to the ground commanders not to make any movement and reinforcement on the warring parties to avoid more tension between the two.

Al Haq said an investigation is going on to determine who was at fault and appropriate action will be taken by the MILF.

The MILF said it will leave to its disciplinary board the decision on what sanctions will be imposed on whoever will be found guilty in the crime.

Due to the tension, classes in two elementary schools were suspended.

The local government and the Department of Education then decided to hold classes in nearby evacuation centers where the residents are temporarily staying.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=678378

NPA rebels disarm security guards in Bukidnon

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 30): NPA rebels disarm security guards in Bukidnon

About 10 unidentified armed men believed members of the communist New People's Army (NPA) disarmed five private security guards in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon shortly before noon Saturday, the police said.

Witnesses told responding government troopers that the armed men raided a subdivision in the village of San Miguel in Manolo Fortich about 11:30 a.m. Saturday and disarmed the security guards manning the outpost.

The NPA carted away five shotguns owned by the security guards before fleeing to an unknown direction as the military and police established road blocks along the major highway in Manolo Fortich.

Police said that the rebels also put up blocking forces on the interior roads leading to the subdivision in the village of San Miguel while the raid on the security outpost was in progress.

The security guards who were caught by surprise did not resist. There was no report of exchanged of gunfires but residents in the village scampered and padlocked their houses as the raid progressed, the police said.

The military and the police have dispatched a contigent of combined government troopers to Manolo Fortich to secure the area for fear that the rebels might staged another attack on various Bukidnon-based multi-national companies in the province.

Last Thursday, the military repulsed an attempt of the NPA rebels to breach the security of a banana plantation and a piggery farm in the outskirts of Libona in Buklidnon.

The military are not taking chances following raid of the security outpost in San Miguel, Manolo Fortich since the NPA rebels raided the Del Monte Philippines Inc. in Camp Philipps, Manolo Fortich in February last year.

Army Major Christian Uy, the spokesperson of the army's 4th Infantry Division, said that the army's 3rd Special Forces have been deployed to secure the companies in Manolo Fortich and Libona, all of Bukidnon following a series of attacks by the communist NPA in the area since last year.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=678433