Wednesday, September 17, 2014

NPA camp seized in Iloilo operation

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 18): NPA camp seized in Iloilo operation
 
In line with the government's ongoing efforts to restore peace in the countryside, troopers of the Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division have successfully captured a large New People's Army (NPA) camp during operations in Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras town, Iloilo Wednesday afternoon.

Major Ray Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, said the assault took place shortly before 2 p.m. yesterday.

He added troopers from the 82nd Infantry Battalion, a field unit of the 3rd Infantry Division, spearheaded the attack.

Lt. Col. Aldwine Alamase, 82nd Infantry Battalion commanding officer, said his men were conducting community security operations in said village when they were fired upon by undetermined number of lawless armed elements believed to be members of Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyonal-Panay (SF, KR-P) of the CPP-NPA.

The troopers retaliated, forcing the rebels to retreat in different directions after a five-minute firefight.

Alamase said government forces sustained no casualties in the encounter.

Soldiers conducting pursuit operations saw several blood trails along the NPA’s route of withdrawal, indicating that several rebels were wounded in the clash.

After the firefight, the residents provided information to the troops that enabled them to track the location of the NPA camp.

Alamase said the captured NPA camp has an estimated area of 700 square meters and can accommodate around 100 personnel.

It has three kitchens, numerous foxholes, makeshifts intended for training instructions and meetings, and a firing range.

The troops recovered training paraphernalia, wires of improvised explosive devices or landmines and personal belongings.

Prior to the encounter, the troops received reports from the residents about the presence of lawless armed elements and were complaining that these NPA rebels were asking for money and food supplies from the civilians.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685509

Newly-appointed Eastern Mindanao Command chief visits 10th ID headquarters

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 18): Newly-appointed Eastern Mindanao Command chief visits 10th ID headquarters
  
In a bid to familiarize himself to all the officers and enlisted personnel under him, Eastern Mindanao Command chief Major Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad formally paid a visit to the headquarters of the Compostela Valley-based 10th Infantry Division last Sept. 16.

In a report forwarded by Capt. Alberto Caber, Eastern Mindanao Command spokesperson, Thursday morning, Baladad's visit is also part of efforts to assess the implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”.

Baladad assumed command of the Eastern Mindanao Command only last Sept. 6.

The latter was warmly welcomed by the officers and men of the 10th Infantry Division under Major Gen. Eduardo M. Ano punctuated with a traditional military honors followed by a brief on the current security situation in the Davao Region.

At the end of the briefing, Baladad congratulated the soldiers of the 10th Infantry Division for its efforts and devotion to their duties to win the peace particularly in the affected areas of Compostela Valley Province duly participated in by state agencies and civilian stakeholders.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685508

Gov’t, MILF tackle Bangsamoro ‘normalization’ next week in KL

From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 18): Gov’t, MILF tackle Bangsamoro ‘normalization’ next week in KL

The process of “normalization” in the projected autonomous Bangsamoro political entity in Mindanao begins next week when the negotiators from the government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) meet in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“The peace panels of the government and the MILF are scheduled to meet in the last week of September,” a source, who declined to be identified as he is not authorized to talk on the issue, revealed yesterday.

The Kuala Lumpur meeting is all about laying the ground for the implementation of the Annex on Normalization, the source said. It covers security, socio-economic development program, and confidence-building measures.

Under the annex, normalization is defined as “a process whereby communities can achieve their desired quality of life, which includes the pursuit of sustainable livelihood and political participation within a peaceful deliberative society.”

Normalization occurs parallel with the road map for the creation of the Bangsamoro political entity.

Both the GPH and the MILF have said that “normalization” does not have to be in the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) because its provisions are executive doables, or they can be implemented without the need for a new law.

Under the security aspect of the annex is the decommissioning of the estimated 11,000-strong members of the MILF.

Normalization is the fourth and last annex of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed in October, 2013....

http://www.mb.com.ph/govt-milf-tackle-bangsamoro-normalization-next-week-in-kl/

NPA camp seized in Iloilo operation

From the Manila Times (Sep 18): NPA camp seized in Iloilo operation

In line with the government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace in the countryside, troopers of the Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division have successfully captured a large New People’s Army (NPA) camp during operations in Barangay Igcabugao, Igbaras town, Iloilo Wednesday afternoon.

Major Ray Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, said the assault took place shortly before 2 p.m. yesterday.

He added troopers from the 82nd Infantry Battalion, a field unit of the 3rd Infantry Division, spearheaded the attack.

Lt. Col. Aldwine Alamase, 82nd Infantry Battalion commanding officer, said his men were conducting community security operations in said village when they were fired upon by undetermined number of lawless armed elements believed to be members of Southern Front, Komiteng Rehiyonal-Panay (SF, KR-P) of the CPP-NPA.

The troopers retaliated, forcing the rebels to retreat in different directions after a five-minute firefight.

Alamase said government forces sustained no casualties in the encounter.

Soldiers conducting pursuit operations saw several blood trails along the NPA’s route of withdrawal, indicating that several rebels were wounded in the clash.

After the firefight, the residents provided information to the troops that enabled them to track the location of the NPA camp.

Alamase said the captured NPA camp has an estimated area of 700 square meters and can accommodate around 100 personnel.

It has three kitchens, numerous foxholes, makeshifts intended for training instructions and meetings, and a firing range.

The troops recovered training paraphernalia, wires of improvised explosive devices or landmines and personal belongings.

Prior to the encounter, the troops received reports from the residents about the presence of lawless armed elements and were complaining that these NPA rebels were asking for money and food supplies from the civilians.

http://www.manilatimes.net/npa-camp-seized-in-iloilo-operation/127507/

Davao City sets up checkpoints after IED blast in GenSan

From GMA News (Sep 18): Davao City sets up checkpoints after IED blast in GenSan

Security was tightened in Davao City Wednesday after an improvised explosive device exploded and injured at least eight people in General Santos City Tuesday evening.

Davao City security forces inspected the city hall and held mobile patrols, with city police OIC Superintendent Marvin Pepino leading roving patrols, GMA Davao reported.

The task force members manning the checkpoints inspected vehicles, motorists and even pedestrians.

On Tuesday night, at least eight people were injured after an IED exploded in General Santos City.

"Sa ngayon may narinig tayong nangyari sa ibang lugar. Naka-full alert tayo ngayon dito sa Davao," said Cpl. Jasper Tamala, team leader of Task Force Davao.

Some motorists interviewed by GMA News said they were okay with the heightened security, adding it was for their safety.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/379713/news/regions/davao-city-sets-up-checkpoints-after-ied-blast-in-gensan

Govt working with US to thwart alleged ISIS recruitment in PHL

From GMA News (Sep 17): Govt working with US to thwart alleged ISIS recruitment in PHL

The Philippines is working with the United States to thwart the reported recruitment of the terror group ISIS in the country, particularly in Mindanao, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday.
 
In a press statement, the DFA said authorities, especially the military, have commenced with their intelligence and information gathering after it was earlier reported that two Filipinos were among those recently killed in Syria while fighting on the side of the militants.
 
“Although the reported deaths of two Filipinos fighting with the opposition in Syria remain unconfirmed to date, the Philippine government is cognizant of the potential threat to national security that could be posed by Philippine nationals joining extremist groups overseas,” it said.
 
“Our security and intelligence authorities have commenced the monitoring of possible recruitment by ISIS and other foreign extremist groups in the Philippines,” the statement added.
 
The DFA said authorities are also verifying reports that some young Filipino Muslims who have gone to Syria and Iraq, are now trying to radicalize others on their return home.
 
“Such dangers include the propagation of extremist ideas and terrorism by Filipinos affiliated with such groups upon their return home,” the agency said.
 
During a conference on Tuesday, US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg said the US government, in cooperation with the Philippine government, is now closely monitoring the country, particularly Mindanao, amid the reports that ISIS is recruiting fighters in the region.
 
In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Abu Misry Mama, spokesperson of the splinter group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), admitted that the BIFF leadership had pledged allegiance to ISIS and is in constant communication with its leaders, especially with ISIS head Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi.
 
“We reiterate that the Philippines condemns the war crimes and crimes against humanity being perpetrated by ISIS. As a responsible member of the international community, the Philippines will do its part in global efforts to thwart ISIS,” the DFA said.
 
Last week, US President Barack Obama ordered military offensive operations, including air strikes, against ISIS in Syria and Iraq after the killing of two American journalists and a British social volunteer. 
 

Bangsamoro not limited to MILF – govt peace advisers

From GMA News (Sep 17): Bangsamoro not limited to MILF – govt peace advisers

The Bangsamoro political entity won't be limited to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

This was disclosed Wednesday by Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita "Ging" Deles, who added that the Moro National Liberation Front has been participating in the crafting of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law. 
 
"We are talking to senior MNLF leaders to participate in the crafting of the BBL. That is why you will note that there are several MNLF leaders who come to the consultations and be part of the process," Deles said during a Senate budget. 
 
"We are envisioning [that] when the Bangsamoro transition authority is set up, there would be MNLF authority there. Kasama sila," she added.
 
As for the Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Freedom Fighters, government peace panel chairperson Miriam Coronel-Ferrer stressed that the rebel group would only be allowed to join in the peace process if they lay down their arms.
 
"[The] BIFF agenda is [an] Islamic state, something we cannot possibly allow in our Constitution. And if they continue to use violence as they have been doing, attacking our military installations, then they are basically a law enforcement issue," Ferrer said.
 
"Matatandaan ninyo yung pakikipag-usap sa MILF ay naging productive dahil ang pinag-umpisahan natin diyan ay ceasefire, so merong pagkilala na tigil muna ang putukan. Hindi ganyan ang sitwasyon natin ngayon sa BFF. Patuloy ang kanilang pagsasagawa ng harassment," she later explained in a separate interview with reporters. 
 
Still, Ferrer opened the doors of the peace process to the communities supporting BIFF members.
 
"Ngayon naman, sa mga ordinary members ng BIFF, sa mga communities, bukas ang ating panawagan na makilahok sila rito at itigil na itong paggamit ng karahasan," she said. "Walang hiwalay na negosasyon ang nakalinya para sa BIFF." 

The new MNLF chairman, Datu HJ. Abdul Khayr Alonto, had earlier expressed his group's support to the new Bangsamoro entity.
 
“All elements in Mindanao right now are in solidarity for the success of this peace process. Kaya nga natanggal si Nur Misuari ay dahil hindi siya sang-ayon sa peace process na ito,” Alonto earlier said.
 
Last week, no less than President Benigno Aquino III transmitted the draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law to leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives in MalacaƱang.
 
The Senate panel is set to have a briefing on the proposed measure next week.
 
The House ad hoc committee on the Bangsamoro Basic Law earlier said it was eyeing to suspend the warrant of arrest against BIFF leader Ameril Umbra Kato and MILF founding chairman Nur Misuari to enable them to participate in the congressional debate on the proposed measure.
 
But the government peace panel is lukewarm on the House panel's proposal.
 
"That is the prerogative of Congress to undertake so we'll take it from them. It is going to be their decision," Ferrer said.
 
"[The invitation] can also create or affect some of the sensibilities of people who were victimize of the siege last year. So, there will be a balancing act that should be done, some thinking might be needed, if this is the best way for everybody to be part of the process," she added. 
 
The siege she was referring to was the Zamboanga siege last year that killed over 200 people as armed Misuari followers tried to took over the city.
 

LGU leads in internal security initiatives in Comval town

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): LGU leads in internal security initiatives in Comval town

NABUNTURAN, Compostela Valley -– The local government unit (LGU) here vowed to stand for peace following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the hand-over of the Internal Security Effort aimed at ensuring peace and development in the town.

“For so long, Nabunturan suffered the stigma brought about by the perception that it is infested with communist terrorists. That perception ends now. Today, we, the representatives of the people of Nabunturan make a stand for our children and their children’s sake,” said Councilor Dennis O. Bugas, the Chair of the Committee on Peace and Order in the Sangguniang Bayan of Nabuntural.

By assuming the lead role, the local government of Nabunturan pledges to ensure that community development efforts and people empowerment activities shall be conducted by the members of the council within their respective concerns.

The handover of the ISE lead role also implies the continuing collaboration of the AFP, PNP, LGU and other stakeholders in Peace and Development effort. As such, government troops will remain and will be strategically deployed so as to provide appropriate security forces when necessary.

Among those who witnessed the signing of the MOU were the Local Government Officials of Nabunturan headed by Hon. Mayor Romeo C. Clarin, Hon. Vice Mayor Mario Angelo M. Sotto and ABC President Hon. Edilberto MiƱoza.

The military was represented M/Gen. Eduardo Ano, commander of the 10th Infantry Division Philippine Army, Col. Casiano Monilla, Commander of the 1001st Brigade and P/SSUPT Abraham Rojas, Police Provincial Director of ComVal.

Ano lauded the collaborative efforts of the LGU Nabunturan and the 66th Infantry Battalion for making the hand-over a reality.

He also enjoined the LGU to protect these gains and bring it to a higher level.

“With the internal security mechanism in place, this municipality will be less vulnerable and more able to weather any security disturbance that may come its way,” Ano said.

The assumption of ISE lead role by the local government of Nabunturan is the first in Comval Province, an area known to be a hotbed of the communist insurgency.

According Ano, being the capital town of the province, Nabunturan sends a beacon of hope to other municipalities that through the spirit of “bayanihan”, a just and lasting peace can be achieved.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=685194

PHL gov't to continue talks with US on Tubbataha compensation -- DFA

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): PHL gov't to continue talks with US on Tubbataha compensation -- DFA

The Philippine government will continue its talks with the United States for full compensation for the damage caused on Tubbataha Reef by an American naval vessel last year even as the Supreme Court dismissed a petition by activists to seek higher payment for the incident.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DFA took note of the decision by the High Court on the Petition for Writ of Kalikasan with regards to the damage on the protected maritime sanctuary but noted that negotiations for compensation will be pursued.

"We will continue our ongoing discussions with the US government on the matter of securing full compensation for the damage caused to the Tubbataha Reef, and will be guided by the Supreme Court decision and the advice ofthe Office of the Solicitor General.," the DFA said.

"We will also continue to work with other government agencies to enhance navigational safety in the area and presrve the reef and its marine environment.," it added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685038

Death of alleged ISIS-recruited Filipinos in Syria unconfirmed - DFA

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Death of alleged ISIS-recruited Filipinos in Syria unconfirmed - DFA

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday said the reported death of two Filipinos fighting with the opposition in Syria remain unconfirmed, but stressed that the Philippine government is cognizant of the potential threat to national security posed by Philippine nationals joining extremist groups overseas.

"Such dangers include the propagation of extremist ideas and terrorism by Filipinos affiliated with such groups upon their return home," a DFA statement on Wednesday said.

Philippine security and intelligence authorities, the DFA said, are monitoring of possible recruitment by ISIS and other foreign extremist groups in the Philippines.

"The DFA defers to hem on this matter," it said, adding the Philippines "condemns the war crimes and cries against humanity being perpetrated by ISIS."

"As a responsible member of the international community, the Philippines will do its part in global efforts to thwart ISIS," the DFA said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685052

Gov't continues to talk to MNLF, Deles says

From ABS-CBN (Sep 17): Gov't continues to talk to MNLF, Deles says

The government continues to involve the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in designing policies for the future Bangsamoro homeland, according to Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles.

Deles told the Senate finance committee that the government has learned its lessons from the past.

She said government will not leave the MNLF out of the process, even if the latest peace agreement was crafted after talks with another group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

"The effort in the tripartite review continues, and even though that has been suspended, we are talking to senior MNLF leaders to participate in the crafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law," she said.

"We are envisioning that when the Bangsamoro transition authority is set up, there will be MNLF there."

But the same is not true for the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a breakaway group composed of former MILF members.

"They're basically a law enforcement issue," said Miriam Coronel Ferrer, head of the government peace panel.

The government has submitted the draft of the law creating the Bangsamoro to both houses of Congress.

Senate President Franklin Drilon had said he expects lively Senate debates on the bill, which would likely be passed in March next year.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/09/17/14/govt-continues-talk-mnlf-deles-says

PNP-SAF members hurt in clash vs NPA

From ABS-CBN (Sep 17): 3 PNP-SAF members hurt in clash vs NPA

Three members of the Philippine National Police - Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) were wounded in an encounter with the Guerilla Front 53 of the New People's Army (NPA) in Sitio Natuntungan, Barangay Bagumbayan, Magpet, North Cotabato Tuesday morning.

The wounded PNP-SAF members were identified as Police Officer 2 Jop Limangan, PO2 Jhong Bilang, and PO2 Rudy Ticangen.

According to 57th Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Nilo Vinluan, the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were conducting joint operations in Barangay Bagumbayan due to the alleged presence of NPA members in the area.

"Consistent naman kasi yung mga natatanggap natin na report eh. Yung mga sibilyan, matagal na silang umaalma sa panggigipit nung kabilang grupo," Vinluan said.

He noted, however, that the rebel group was also reported to be merging with some civilians in the area.

"Ngayon tinitingnan namin kung nag-merge sila sa civilian, na mukhang dito kami natatalo kasi we respect the human rights law. We respect the civilian [population]."

Magpet police chief Senior Inspector Reylan Mamon said six men are now under their custody after they were seen in the firefight site.

"For verification lang sila kung talaga bang resident sila sa area, kung wala ba silang mga outstanding warrant of arrest or any reklamo. Para lang malaman natin kung may participation sila sa incident," Mamon said.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/09/17/14/3-pnp-saf-members-hurt-clash-vs-npa

A Silsilah Way to Promote Dialogue and Peace in Basilan

From the Zamboanga Today (Sep 17): A Silsilah Way to Promote Dialogue and Peace in Basilan

In the midst of so many alarming news of radicalism and terrorism in Mindanao and other parts of the world, Silsilah invites all to move with determination in promoting   dialogue and peace through education and formation and share our lives in solidarity with those who suffer most. With this spirit the Movement maintains groups and centers in many parts of Mindanao and Manila through the Silsilah Forums formed by Muslim and   Christian Silsilah Alumni and others who wish to be part of this experience   articulated in different forms.
 
In Basilan,  Silsilah has a special presence with  a Center and a  group of respected    Muslims and Christian leaders   who, together, form  the Inter Faith Council of Leaders ( IFCL) Basilan. The   leaders of IFCL are the top religious leaders of Basilan among the Catholics, the protestant pastors   and the Muslims. The last experience of the activities of Silsilah in Basilan was a formation program   for teachers of Islamic schools called “Madaris Gurus”.  This program is not new in Silsilah.  From time to time Silsilah invites   madaris gurus and catechists together to build friendship, to know more about dialogue and the Culture of Dialogue and encourage   them to teach according to their own religion and program, but in a dialogical way. Considering that   there are many prejudices among    our people, Muslims and Christians, the religious teachers can help to remove prejudices or aggravate them. It is in their way of teaching that the students can become people of peace or perpetuate the prejudice that are the entry points to violence.  
 
From September 10 to 13, a group of madaris gurus, men and women, were with us in Harmony Village in Zamboanga to attend a formation program.  It was only for  them  because  this was the request of the IFCL Basilan who  observed how,  in some  Islamic schools  in Basilan,    some  Muslims    try to  contact  the madaris gurus  presenting  to the madaris gurus  radical ways of teaching that  is often  the entry point of  violence.   At this time  when   the  “fever” of IS (Islamic  State) coming from Iraq is being circulated   also in Basilan and other parts  of Mindanao,  a good number of  leaders, including  Muslim religious leaders,  are alarmed and  try to find  ways to promote   peace  through  the correct  way to  teach  Islam. For this reason, Silsilah was invited to help.
 
The group arrived in Harmony Village in the morning of September 10. Most of the   teachers where sent by the DepEd (Department of Education) of Basilan because the teachers/madaris gurus are part of a  DepEd program.  The seminar workshop was contacted   by Ustadh Garson A. Hamja, teacher of the Silsilah Madrasa, with the help of other  resource persons:  Ustadh Abdulla Ibrahim, Director of the Silsilah Madrasa,   Prof. Siddique Abdel Azcem Muhammad, teacher of the  College of Asian and Islamic Studies of Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) and Aminda E. Sano, President  of the Silsilah Dialogue Movement.
 
The sharing was open and friendly.  Gradually the participants were introduced to the concept of the Culture of Dialogue, Path to Peaceand   to the    dialogical teaching in madaris schools.  These inputs help  them to understand more  the importance to  harmonize the  curriculum  and the  methodology  to  form  good Muslims  and good citizens.  The participants were also informed   of the curriculum and methodology of Islamic teaching in WMSU. A special topic was the presentation of the Culture of Dialogue that Silsilah promotes, the presentation of the   open letter “the Common Word” of 138 Muslim scholars of the world who wrote in 2007 to Pope Benedict XVI and other Christian leaders of the world. In this letter  it is  emphasized  the importance for  Muslims  and  Christians to   work  together  for peace  in the world, starting from the concept of   the Love of God and the love of neighbor in Islam  and Christianity. Another special topic was a presentation of the concept of the “great Jihad” that promotes the spiritual journey of purification, a concept quite different from the normal use of the word “Jihad”.  The sharing was open and friendly and the participants returned to Basilan determined to apply what   they had learned in Silsilah.
 
There are those who   have a very negative knowledge of Basilan, often considered the place of the Abu Sayyaf, a terrorist group well known around the world.   Meanwhile we know the reality of violence, kidnapping and other forms of criminality in Basilan. We reaffirm that   there are many respected Muslims and Christian leaders in Basilan who are sincere in their commitment for peace. And the group of madaris gurus who were invited to Harmony Village was a sign of hope.  We salute them and we pray that with other   good Muslim and Christian leaders of Basilan they can overcome “fear”. A fear expressed often with silence.  Inspite of the  visible  fear  also  in the sharing of the  madaris gurus activity done in Harmony Village,  there is so much hope  in Basilan and the  experience  of the last  September madaris gurus activity  is  an affirmation of this  hope.
 
Silsilah is in solidarity with those who suffer violence in the world, in a special way now in Iraq and Syria. Meanwhile we do not forget the violence in our midst, including the painful experiences of violence in Basilan, against all, especially against the Christians.  We know that violence calls for more violence. Meanwhile, the   long way   of dialogue is a hope if   dialogue is sincere and not used as a “strategy”. Dialogue is   the way of peace only when it becomes a   deeper experience of love and respect of different cultures and religions giving special attention to the less privileged. This is the Silsilah way of solidarity, peace and development.  
 

Charting ISIS on social media: A Radian 6 analysis

From Rappler (Sep 17): Charting ISIS on social media: A Radian 6 analysis

Social media software analyzes terrorist group’s frightening trajectory on social media

Terror is on a recruitment drive, one that’s cutting a path right through Southeast Asia. Just last month the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, otherwise known as ISIS, garnered the allegiance of senior Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader, Isnilon Hapilon.

His pledge of allegiance is the result of ISIS’ ruthless and targeted online enlistment process involving religion-laced propaganda and a steady stream of their vicious progress throughout Iraq and Syria.

The group, that seemingly emerged out of nowhere, sprang into action in June of this year to take city after city. Though their arrival seems fairly recent, many experts surmise that their roots were sown fairly early on, starting with the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001.

From then on, the terror wars took on a cyclical path with leaders falling only to have others take their place. Now, however, ISIS is taking a novel and strategic approach, one that has propelled them through numerous struggles and grown their numbers by the thousands.

To date, some residents of Davao and isolated parts of Mindanao have also taken up the religious call to arms. The Philippine militant group is just a fraction of the 30,000 to 50,000 individuals, worldwide, who have pledged their support to the terrorist organization. Part of their training is reported to have taken place in the country despite denials from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and their longstanding peace agreement with the Philippine government.

This is only one of the many alarming events surrounding the Sunni jihadist group known for their extreme approach and unparalleled brutality. Their first strike on the Northern Iraqi City of Mosul was the opening salvo of many subsequent attacks on provinces in Iraq and Syria. To date, the group is reported to occupy 35,000 square miles between both countries, estimated to be similar in scope to neighboring country Jordan.

Despite their continued path of destruction and mayhem, the US military has taken a deliberative approach to one of immediate response. Understandably so, since their involvement in the Afghanistan and Iraq war fiascos, advises caution and determination of just cause for war. However there are specialists pushing for more than targeted air strikes. They want a decisive motion to repel a faction that seems to exhibit characteristics that set them apart and make them that much more disturbing.

Though ISIS’ strategic bid to increase their numbers is typical, their approach is not. Massively funded and frighteningly organized, they are rapidly emerging as a worldwide threat. Another thing that distinguishes them from their counterparts is their liberal use of social media as a tool to further their aims. From posting photos of the grisly mass murders of Iraqi troops to execution videos of journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, they are getting harder to ignore. Bolstering the campaign to swell their ranks with Islam devotees at a rapid rate, their online presence is a reminder that swift action is needed.

Gripped by Panic

ISIS SPIKES. Initial US air strikes and public executions of James Foley and Steven Sotloff sparked mentions around the world.

ISIS SPIKES. Initial US air strikes and public executions of James Foley and Steven Sotloff sparked mentions around the world.
 
Radian 6 showed a total of 14,787,571 mentions measured, covering the 3-month period associated with the group’s progress throughout Iraq.

The chart also displayed a peak in ISIS mentions on August 9. This date marked authorization of the first United States air strikes on the organization’s strongholds in Mosul. From then on, buzz stayed at above baseline levels exhibiting further peaks during August 21 (520,629), and September 3 (627,753), corresponding to the public release of the execution videos of Foley and Sotloff, respectively.
 
GLOBAL MENACE. On the social media map, ISIS becomes a genuine menace to global security.
 
GLOBAL MENACE. On the social media map, ISIS becomes a genuine menace to global security.
 
 
It can be inferred that US response put ISIS on the social media map as a genuine menace to global security. The back-and-forth volley, between a country known for its military might and one of the most radical groups to emerge from the Middle East, continues to play out with the whole world as an audience.

The most responses were observed in the US (10,295,664), followed by the United Kingdom, Canada, India, the Netherlands, and Greece.

While horror, disbelief, and fear permeate worldwide sentiment at 78.7% of mentions, there is a surprising 21.2% that express positive views regarding the conflict outcome.

The hopeful few are hinging on America to launch concurrent air strikes and ground assaults to end the Islamic threat for good.
 
Philippine mentions stand at 13,366 and the graph displays more noticeable and sustained spikes. Overall, however, the graph mirrors worldwide sentiment showing that we are closely tuned in on ISIS events, as they develop. There is no doubt that the events in Mindanao have had a jarring effect on the country. Graphs show an overwhelming 78.9% negative sentiment compared to 21.1% positive value.
 
MORE NEGATIVE. ISIS Responses are mostly negative, with the positive responses hinging on the chance of ISIS being stopped.
 
MORE NEGATIVE. ISIS Responses are mostly negative, with the positive responses hinging on the chance of ISIS being stopped.
 
World Powers Respond
 
DEFENSE RESPONSES. Graph showing social media reactions to US and UN defense responses. Low UN involvement sees the US getting more social mentions.
 
DEFENSE RESPONSES. Graph showing social media reactions to US and UN defense responses. Low UN involvement sees the US getting more social mentions.

Factoring defense responses from the US and world organization UN yielded surprising results. Most on social media are not fans of the conservative response to ISIS. Low UN involvement sees the US capturing a larger chunk of social mentions at 84.1% to 15.9%.

Sentiment toward the latter is largely negative at 88.1% compared to 11.9% positive mentions, pending a concrete military strategy against the terrorist group. Whether or not the world will keep holding its breath for what appears to be an impending show down, remains to be seen.

More and more of our countrymen join ISIS converts, the world over, as they continue to pledge their aid. If this shows anything, it’s that social media is highly effective at disseminating ideas and making them stick.

With a matter this serious, however, the numbers are there to send a message, ISIS is a legitimate threat and it’s time to take action.

Iggy Gan is an Associate Social Media Consultant at AllFamous Digital. He has a knack for social listening and a passion for writing. Follow him on Twitter @iggypedia.

Erica Sanidad is a Social Media Specialist for AllFamous Digital. She likes reading and collecting graphic novels and loves to paint during her spare time. Follow her on Linked In and Instagram @ericasanidad.

http://www.rappler.com/technology/features/69361-radian-6-isis-development-analysis

President Aquino invites EU to monitor Bangsamoro plebiscite in 2015

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): President Aquino invites EU to monitor Bangsamoro plebiscite in 2015

President Benigno Aquino III has invited the European Union (EU) to monitor the conduct of the Bangsamoro plebiscite in the Philippines next year.

The President extended the invitation to European Council President Herman Van Rompuy during a meeting at the European Council headquarters here on Tuesday.

“The EU has been invited to monitor the plebiscite in Bangsamoro in 2015 and we are currently looking into that possibility,” Rompuy said during a joint press conference with the President that followed their almost one-hour meeting.

The EU leader praised President Aquino for his “pivotal” role in achieving lasting peace in Mindanao.

“The European Union supports the peace process in Mindanao and I would like to take this opportunity to commend the President for his pivotal role,” said Rompuy.

President Aquino informed Rompuy about the submission of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law to leaders of Congress last September 10, which the EU leader welcomed since it will pave the way for a greater autonomy in Mindanao.

Aquino assured the EU of the swift passage of the bill to implement “positive change” and end four decades of conflict in southern Philippines.

“The European Union has been one of our most valuable partners in securing and sustaining peace in Mindanao, and we are indeed grateful for the EU’s continued support as we tread the straight and righteous path to peace and equitable development,” President Aquino said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685118

Photos: Images from PHIBLEX 15

From DVIDS (Sep 16): Photos: Images from PHIBLEX 15

PHIBLEX 15

Reman Dond, a local Philippine volunteer, pours cement used for the foundation of a new classroom during one of two Humanitarian Civic Assistance projecta leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) in Palawan, Philippines, September 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Matthew Casbarro/Released)

PHIBLEX 15

Reman Dond, a local Philippine volunteer, and Cpl. Julio Hernandez, combat engineer, Engineer Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 lay down cement for the foundation of a new classroom being built as part of Humanitarian Civic Assistance project leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) in Palawan, Philippines, September 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Matthew Casbarro/Released)

PHIBLEX 15

U.S. Marines and local Philippine schoolchildren gather around a plant bed during a Humanitarian Civic Assistance project leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) in Palawan, Philippines, September 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Matthew Casbarro/Released)

PHIBLEX 15

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. John Suyat with Utilities Platoon, Engineer Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, and local Philippine volunteers mix cement to be used for the foundation of a classroom being built during one of two Humanitarian Civic Assistance projects leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) in Palawan, Philippines, Sept. 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Matthew Casbarro/Released)

PHIBLEX 15

U.S. Marines with Civil Affairs, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade exchange high fives with local Philippine children at the Elementary School of Maoyon in Palawan, Philippines during one of two Humanitarian Civic Assistance projects leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 15), September 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. William L. Holdaway/Released)

PHIBLEX 15

Philippine Navy Sailors with 3rd Battalion, Combat Engineer Brigade and local Philippine volunteers along with U.S. Marines with Combat Engineer Platoon, Marine Winged Support Squadron 172, pass each other buckets containing concrete, needed for laying the foundation of a new classroom being built for the Elementary School of Maoyon in Palawan, Philippines during one of two Humanitarian Civic Assistance projects leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 15)on September 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. William L. Holdaway/Released)

PHIBLEX 15

Local Palawan Philippine volunteers along with a U.S. Marine with Combat Engineer Platoon, Marine Winged Support Squadron 172, pass each other buckets containing concrete, needed for laying the foundation of a new classroom being built for the Elementary School of Maoyon in Palawan, Philippines during one of two Humanitarian Civic Assistance projects leading up to Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 15) on September 15, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. William L. Holdaway/Released)

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1551398/phiblex-15#.VBoKs8Z0yAI

9 militiamen feted for bravery in Davao del Norte clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): 9 militiamen feted for bravery in Davao del Norte clash

Nine militiamen serving with the Compostela Valley-based 10th Infantry Division were decorated with the Military Merit Medal for their exemplary service during an encounter in Kapalong, Davao del Norte which resulted in the death of three rebels last Sept. 14.

Major Gen. Eduardo M. AƱo, 10th Infantry Division commander, handed out the medals during simple ceremonies on Monday to CAFGU Active Auxiliaries Ongging Masaloon, Aurelio Masaloon, Macoy Ugail, Jonathan Liruan, Noel Warag, Allan Ompocanon, Larry Masaloon, Micmic Casiano, and their leader, Cpl. Lito Masaloon.

These militiamen were honored for their successful operations in Sitio Poton, Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte which resulted in the death of three rebels and wounding of two government troopers.

Soldiers recovered two high-powered firearms, an improvised explosive device and a hand grenade from the scene of the encounter.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685137

Number of families evacuated near Mount Mayon now at 2,222 families -- SOLCOM

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Number of families evacuated near Mount Mayon now at 2,222 families -- SOLCOM

Southern Luzon Command chief, Major Gen. Ricardo Visaya, on Wednesday announced that the number of families evacuated from the communities near Mount Mayon in Albay has now reached 2,222 families or 10,593 persons.

As of 11 a.m. Wednesday, Visaya said the figure can be broken down into: Tabaco City, 282 families; Guinobatan, 1,144 families; Camalig, 378; Ligao City, 18; and Malilipot with 400 families.

"Evacuation is very orderly," he said.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised the volcano's alert status to Level 3 Monday night.

Earlier, Visaya said evacuation started in 60 barangays within the five to eight kilometers danger zone.

An estimated 10,000 families are expected to be evacuated with some 50 trucks being readied for the effort.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685156

Military tags BIFF in General Santos bombing

From Rappler (Sep 17): Military tags BIFF in General Santos bombing

It looks connected to the peace 'spoilers' Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters based on the signature of the improvised explosive device, says a military official

BOMBING. Authorities inspect the site where an improvised explosive device was planted in General Santos City on September 16, 2104. Photo by Edwin Espejo/Rappler

BOMBING. Authorities inspect the site where an improvised explosive device was planted in General Santos City on September 16, 2104. Photo by Edwin Espejo/Rappler

The military has tagged the Bangsamoro Freedom Fighters (BIFF) – a splinter group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) – as behind the bombing in General Santos that wounded 7 civilians Tuesday evening, September 16.

Military officials made the assessment on Wednesday, September 17, the same day Chief Peace Adviser Teresita Deles told senators at a budget hearing that the estimated 1,000 BIFF members are "well contained," citing successful military operations that captured the rebels' camps in Maguindanao.

"Based on the signature of the improvised explosive device (IED), it looks connected to the spoilers BIFF. This is the group of Basit Usman, who is also known for extortion activities," said Major General Eduardo AƱo, commander of the 10th Infantry Division of the Eastern Mindanao Command.

When the MILF abandoned its armed stuggle for independence in exchange for widers powers for the new Bangsamoro entity, disgruntled members left the group and formed the BIFF to continue the fight. Usman is supposedly a former member of the MILF special operations group, according to AƱo.

AƱo, the former military intelligence chief, believes that the attack is meant to "make their presence felt" while the government and the MILF are working on the creation of a new autonomous region in Mindanao.

The Bangsamoro draft law is now pending Congress deliberations.

But AƱo is not discounting extortion as the motive behind the attack and that Usman may be delivering a "fair warning" to their victims.

He said the attack was not meant to inflict maximum damage. The bomb was placed in the monument of national hero Jose Rizal, which is populated at day time but not at night, and exploded before 8 pm on Tuesday.

AƱo said it should be treated as "isolated incident" because no similar incidents have been reported in General Santos for a long time.

He also said that the incident does mean that the BIFF now has a presence in General Santos, as the city is supposedly only a transit area.

Concerns over BIFF

At the Senate hearing on the budget of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), Senator Francis Escudero expressed concerns about the BIFF emerging as the new MILF, referring to the split of the MILF from the MNLF following the latter's peace agreeement with the government in 1996.

Until it pursued a peace process in earnest with the government, the MILF pursued an armed stuggle that would eclipse the MNLF to become the dominant Muslim group. (READ: Real peace means the guns will have to go away)

"They (BIFF) might graduate, elevate and mature to becoming either the MILF or the MNLF. At some point down the road, you might not even be in government anymore, the next government or the next next government will be faced with negotiations with them for another basic law," said Escudero.

But Deles is not worried. She noted that the military has taken several BIFF camps and the residents in the communities are supportive of the peace process.

Deles said the new peace agreement has learned the lessons of the "failed" ARMM. The separation of powers of between the central government and the new Bangsamoro entity in terms of fiscal autonomy, justice, and other issues are better defined, she said.
 
http://www.rappler.com/nation/69391-biff-general-santos-bombing

Military eyes BIFF involvement in Gen. Santos City blast

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Military eyes BIFF involvement in Gen. Santos City blast

10th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Eduardo AƱo on Wednesday said that they are looking at the possible involvement of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the explosion that wounded nine people in Gen. Santos City Tuesday night.

He said that this is possible as the group have links with international terrorist Basit Usman.

Tuesday's explosion took place around 7: 45 p.m. near the Dr. Jose Rizal Monument, Plaza Heneral Santos, General Santos City at 7:45 p.m.

The victims were identified as Sarah Alquiza, Christian Paul Amimong, Jay Magnanao, Marlon Bajada, Joan Michel Cayanes Abranilla, James Ralph Abrea and Geraldine Elon who sustained minor wounds. The two others wounded were not named.

All are now in stable condition.

AƱo theorized that the blast was extortion related.

"This should be treated as an isolated case, since for a long time, there has not been anything happening in that place," he added.

AƱo described the plaza as a place for people to congregate in the daylight but the opposite happens when on nightfall.

"It wasn't really designed to inflict maximum casualties, because this is a place where there only a minimal number of people who stay there during the evening," AƱo concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685146

Sen. Miriam opposing 'sub-state' provision in Bangsamoro law, says it's unconstitutional

From InterAksyon (Sep 18): Sen. Miriam opposing 'sub-state' provision in Bangsamoro law, says it's unconstitutional

Saying it is unconstitutional, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago has served notice she will oppose any provision in the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law which will constitute the creation of a sub-state when Congress finally tackles the measure.
 
In a press conference, Santiago, chairman of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments, revision of laws and codes, said the broad support that the proposed BBL enjoys in the Senate does not mean it will no longer be scrutinized closely, especially on its constitutional aspects.

“If it comes to the Senate, I will have to inspect with a very beady eye, meaning to say with a skeptical mind, the provisions because it might turn out to be a document that constitutes or creates a sub-state outside of the territorial jurisdiction and the general governmental jurisdiction of our country and in which case, it would be unconstitutional,” the senator said.

Santiago has been vocal in airing her assessment of the BBL's being unconstitutional in some respects, even before the framework agreement was finalized and submitted to President Aquino by the negotiating panels.
 
“We cannot possibly endorse anything that violates the constitutional provision. The Constitution only provides for local autonomy. That does not provide for a so-called sub-state,” Santiago said.
 
Last April, Santiago claimed that based on her preliminary study, the Bangsamoro Agreement apparently contains provisions very similar to those contained in the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) which the Supreme Court declared as unconstitutional. The MOA-AD was crafted during the time of President Gloria Arroyo.

Santiago said it will be extremely difficult for her to be persuaded, as chair of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments, that the Bangsamoro Agreement - dubbed as the crowning glory of the Aquino administration - respects the Philippine Constitution or does not violate the principle of constitutional supremacy.

The agreement or CAB - on which the BBL was based - will pave the way for the establishment of a new Bangsamoro political entity, not a mere autonomous region as provided for by the Constitution, but a “sub state” which will exercise certain sovereign powers that should be reserved only for the central government, Santiago had pointed out before.

The same seems to be still the position of the senator, when asked about the issue, now that the BBL bill has been filed in the upper chamber and is due to be deliberated upon anytime soon.

“I’m chair of the committee on constitutional amendments. Remember I have the power as chair, since we operate under a committee system, the Senate and House, meaning to say we generate trust, the leadership of the committee chairperson. I’m chair of the committee on constitutional amendments so I’m definitely against the notion that the Constitution should be changed to accommodate one person. That makes for a very, very bad law,” she said.

Misuari, Kato inputs? Depends on panels

When asked on the need for inputs of former Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chair Nur Misuari and Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Freedom Fighters (BIFF) leader Ameril Umbra Kato before Congress can seal its approval,  Santiago tossed the issue to the committees that will handle deliberations on the BBL.      

“That depends on the panels that have been appointed and vested with authority over this. They are in effect volunteering their services but there is nothing under the existing law creating these panels of the peace process [that compels] them to listen to whoever might be the person and no matter what is his identification -- compelling the .to act as a listening post to this person or to give him time to formulate his own opinions. There’s nothing there."

Right now, she added,  the matter of inviting Misuari or Kato or both should be considered as just a request, stressing that "there’s nothing that can compel the peace panel to stop proceedings just so they can air their misgivings over these provisions."

Saying it's complicated and fraught with risk, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima had earlier urged caution on the proposal of Rep. Rufus Rodriguez to freeze the arrest warrants on Misuari and Kato, so they can attend congressional deliberations on the BBL and provide their inputs.

While Santiago does not see a compelling reason to bring the two Muslim leaders to Congress, still, she said the matter of their being considered fugitives will not suffice as a reason not to hear them out.

“[The fact that] they are facing criminal charges does that disqualify them from expressing an opinion borne out of personal experience,” she said.

“That’s within its authority (committees in the two Houses of Congress that will handle the BBL). If it will do its job in a better way by that method [calling the two leaders], then by all means we must support the panel. They have been a panel precisely to solve the problem so they should be free to take the steps that they think are necessary,” she added.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/95606/sen--miriam-opposing-sub-state-provision-in-bangsamoro-law-says-its-unconstitutional

Security, intelligence authorities monitoring IS recruitment - Del Rosario

From InterAksyon (Sep 17): Security, intelligence authorities monitoring IS recruitment - Del Rosario
 
The country’s security and intelligence agencies have begun monitoring attempts to recruit Filipinos to the Islamic State in the Middle East, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said Wednesday.

At the same time, Del Rosario said the death of two Filipinos fighting with IS in Syria, which his department had earlier reported as cited in a confidential memorandum to Malacanang, remained “unconfirmed.”

Nevertheless, he said, “The Philippine government is cognizant of the potential threat to national security that could be posed by Philippine nationals joining extremist groups overseas."

"Our security and intelligence authorities have commenced the monitoring of possible recruitment by ISIS and other foreign extremist groups in the Philippines," he added, using the acronym for the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, the name used to refer to IS before it declared a “caliphate” and adopted the new name.

His statement came after Moro National Liberation Front spokesman Absalom Cerveza confirmed that Syrian militant had already recruited and funded them to wage war alongside Islamic State forces in Syria.

"The DFA will extend assistance and support in terms of reaching out to our international partners, helping to facilitate information sharing, having our posts continue reporting on developments but defer to security and intelligence agencies on operational matters," Del Rosario assured even as he stressed that they would defer to the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and other security agencies on operational matters.

“We reiterate that the Philippines condemns the war crimes and crimes against humanity being perpetrated by ISIS," del Rosario said. "As a responsible member of the international community, the Philippines will do its part in global efforts to thwart ISIS." he added.

Aside from the reported Filipino deaths in Syria, the DFA also said 100 Filipinos had undergone military training and been deployed to the war-torn Middle East country.

Earlier, DFA spokesman Charles Jose admitted the agency has no capability monitoring Filipinos who may have joined the IS in Iraq or Syria, where the government has a standing ban on the deployment of overseas workers.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/95578/security-intelligence-authorities-monitoring-is-recruitment---del-rosario

DFA says it will pursue claims over USS Guardian grounding on Tubbataha

From InterAksyon (Sep 17): DFA says it will pursue claims over USS Guardian grounding on Tubbataha



The Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday said it will continue discussions with the United States government on compensation for the damage caused by the grounding of an American Navy ship on Tubbataha Reef.

At the same time, the DFA said it will abide by the Supreme Court decision rejecting a petition for a writ of amparo against the crew of the American minesweeper and seeking around $27 million for the damage it wrought to the World Heritage site last year.

"We will continue our ongoing discussions with the US government on the matter of securing full compensation for the damage caused to the Tubbataha Reef, and will be guided by the Supreme Court decision and the advice of the Office of the Solicitor General," the DFA said in a statement.

On Tuesday, the high court said the claim for damages should be pursued through a civil suit and not a petition for a writ of kalikasan.

It also said it is Malacanang that should demand compensation from the US government for the damage to more than 2,300 square meters of the reef, which marine experts say will take decades to recover.

"The Court deferred to the Executive branch noting that the conduct of foreign relations of the government is committed by the Constitution to the political departments of the government and the propriety of what may be done in the exercise of this political power is not subject to judicial inquiry or decision," the SC ruling said.

The petitioners based their claim for compensation on the 2009 grounding of the USS Port Royal in Hawaii as they criticized the Philippine government’s claim of

$1.4 million based on the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Act of 2009.

The law pegs the penalty at P12,000 per square meter for damage to the reef and a similar amount for rehabilitation.

The DFA also said it will continue working with other government agencies "to enhance navigational safety in the area and preserve the reef and its marine environment."

The USS Guardian ran aground on Tubbataha on January 17 last year as it sailed to Indonesia from Subic Bay.

It was finally dismantled and removed in early April.

US Ambassador Philip Goldberg earlier said a compensation package will be announced after his government finishes its review of the Philippine claim prepared by the Department of Environment and National Defense and the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park.

The claim was filed under the US Foreign Claims Act enacted in 1942 to provide compensation for inhabitants of foreign countries for personal injury, death or property damage because of noncombatant activities by US military personnel overseas.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/95581/dfa-says-it-will-pursue-claims-over-uss-guardian-grounding-on-tubbataha

Philippines, Indonesia conduct joint patrol exercise

From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Sep 16): Philippines, Indonesia conduct joint patrol exercise

The Philippines has sent two navy ships to Indonesia to participate in a 10-day joint coordinated patrol exercises, officials said Tuesday.

Commodore Joel Dela Cruz, commander of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, said crew members of the Filipino ships - BRP Magat Salamat (PS20) and BRP Iloilo (PS32) – are joining the CORPAT PHILINDO XXVIII-14 Exercise which would run until September 25.

He said included in the CORPAT PHILINDO are different shipboard exercises and that participating units will conduct Flashing Light Exercise, Replenishment at Sea Approach, Flag Hoist Exercise and Tactical Maneuver Exercise.

“The main objective of the exercise is to strengthen the enforcement of laws at sea and to conduct effective border patrol operations as deterrence against illegal activities such as human trafficking, illegal drugs smuggling and the likes.”

“This will also enhance the good relations between the two countries through the development of joint operational patrol doctrines and naval tactics practices,” Dela Cruz said, adding, the joint exercise will also give the Filipino navy men an opportunity to learn the Indonesian culture and tradition.

http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/09/philippines-indonesia-conduct-joint.html

Deles, Ferrer laud lawmakers' support for Bangsamoro bill

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Deles, Ferrer laud lawmakers' support for Bangsamoro bill

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles and Government of the Philippines (GPH) peace panel chair Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on Wednesday thanked both houses of Congress for its show of strong bipartisan support for the Bangsamoro bill and commitment for its timely passage into law.

The Bangsamoro bill, the proposed organic act for the Bangsamoro political entity, was filed in the Senate on Monday as Senate Bill (SB) 2408 with more than half of the senators, including the four members of the minority group signing as co-authors.

Deles described the bipartisan support of majority and minority blocs in the Senate as a “strong gesture for peace by representatives of the Filipino people.”

“We thank the Senate’s swift filing of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and more importantly, its manifestation of bipartisan support,” said Deles.

“Definitely, our lawmakers have the monumental role to pass a law that serves the aspiration of the Filipino people for peace in southern Philippines,” she said.

Coronel-Ferrer also welcomed the support from the majority and minority blocs in the Senate “to work together and transcend partisan politics to ensure the timely passage of the BBL.”

“We are thankful for these positive gestures by our esteemed lawmakers in pushing forward the Bangsamoro bill which is the legal translation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), a product of 17 years of peace negotiations,” Coronel-Ferrer said.

The government chief negotiator likewise noted that they "would welcome all the clarifications they (lawmakers) may seek on the background, objectives and other aspects of the draft provisions in order to achieve common understanding and unity of purpose."

SB 2408 is expected to be referred to the Senate Committee on Local Government headed by Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Senate Committee on Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation headed by Sen. Teofisto Guingona III.

The co-authors of SB 2408 include Senate President Franklin Drilon, Senate President pro tempore Ralph Recto, Senate Majority Leader Allan Peter Cayetano, Sen. Sonny Angara, Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, Sen. Nancy Binay, Sen. Pia Cayetano, Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito, Sen. Francis Escudero, Sen. Teofisto Guingona III, Sen. Gregorio Honasan, Sen. Loren Legarda, and Senator Vicente Sotto III. Four of the thirteen co-authors—Ejercito, Sotto, Binay, and Honasan—are members of the minority bloc.

"It only shows that the desire for peace knows no political color," Drilon said. “With more people working on the BBL, we can better scrutinize every detail of the bill and ensure that every single word in the proposed measure will be reviewed, examined and debated upon.”

Drilon has already noted previously that the bill is expected to be passed by the end of the first quarter of 2015.

In the House of Representatives, a 75-member ad hoc committee for the BBL, headed by Cagayan de Oro (2nd district) Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, has already been formed.

The committee is mandated to deliberate on the Bangsamoro bill and pursue dialogues and consultations with sectors and constituencies that will be affected by the proposed measure. It held its first organizational meeting on Tuesday.

"We truly appreciate the commitment of our legislators in the House of Representatives to bring the peace and development in the Bangsamoro that our people have been longing for," Deles said as legislators commit to fast track the passage of the priority measure.

Deles noted that Rodriguez said in an interview that the ad hoc committee agreed to work on the study of the bill “even during recess.”

The Bangsamoro bill includes sections on power-sharing and wealth-sharing arrangements between the national government and the future Bangsamoro government.

The CAB and the Bangsamoro bill envision establishing a Bangsamoro region by 2016 that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), as a political solution to the decades-old efforts to resolve the Bangsamoro aspiration for genuine autonomy. The CAB was signed between the GPH and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on March 27, 2014.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=685209