From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 19): Army aims to achieve peace in NegOcc. by 2015
The 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army here hopes to declare the Province of Negros Occidental, a “peaceful and ready for further development” province by 2015.
This is part of the Army’s Winning the Peace Framework that will create an enabling environment towards a permanent closure of the long overdue-armed conflict in the province.
As of last quarter of 2014, the 303rd IB disclosed that out of the 661 barangays in the province, 99 barangays are still affected by insurgency.
To date, the 4th District of the province and the City of Bacolod were cleared of any atrocity or violent act perpetrated by the New People’s Army in the area, no armed encounter in the last six years thus considered as insurgency-free, peaceful and ready for further development.
303rd IB Commander Col. Jon Aying said they are slowing moving towards their target of a peaceful and ready for further development province where civil authorities become more responsible in addressing peace and security concerns of their constituency, enhanced access to basic services, armed struggle is rendered irrelevant, increased economic activities and reduced poverty incidence.
Governor Alfredo G. Marañon said that the province as of the moment is relatively peaceful and whenever there is peace, there is progress.
“Peace will be very elusive if there are a lot of poor people among us. Poverty and peace are connected to each other so our programs in the province are really focused to alleviate the lives of less privileged people,” Marañon said.
“We are working on reaching our target and we need to tell the world how peaceful Negros Occidental is so we can attract more investors in line with our continuing objectives in providing dignity and sustainable development for our under privileged brothers and sisters,” Aying said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1031421644591/army-aims-to-achieve-peace-in-negocc-by-2015
Monday, January 19, 2015
Released Comval jail warden: ‘Give me chance to effect changes’
From the pro-CPP online publication Bulatlat (Jan 19): Released Comval jail warden: ‘Give me chance to effect changes’
“Complainants filed a case against him at the People’s Democratic Government for corrupt practices, and for planning, aiding, abetting and conspiring in the commission of ferreting drugs inside the jail, of tolerating the cruel treatment and violence among inmates, and of neglecting sick prisoners of the reactionary Provincial Rehabilitation Center of Compostela Valley in his capacity as its Provincial Jail Warden since Sept. 18, 2000,”
MONKAYO, Compostela Valley – The New People’s Army released today the jail warden it held captive for alleged drugs trade and negligence due to “humanitarian reasons.”
Jose Mervin Coquilla, who is under the custody of the NPA Comval-North Davao South Agusan Subregional Command for 28 days, was released as a “unilateral exercise of political authority, humanitarianism, and to help propel for the immediate resumption of the Government of the Philippines (GPH)-NDFP peace negotiations,” according to the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Southern Mindanao, which ordered the release.
Coquilla was met by his wife and children and officers from the Compostela Valley provincial government.
His release was secured with the help of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace.
Coquillo says he was treated well during his captivity. (Photo by Ace Morandante / Davao Today)
Coquilla was arrested on December 23, a day before the Communist Party of the Philippines started its 10-day staggered ceasefire, in Panabo City.
The warden was allegedly involved in “corrupt practices” including drugs trade and negligence inside the Compostela Valley Provincial Rehabilitation Center located in Tagum City.
In a press conference after he was released, Coquilla denied the allegations but said that “drugs are present in all jails (in the country).”
“I am willing to submit myself for an investigation,” said Coquilla He added that he should “be given a chance to effect changes.”
According to Rubi del Mundo, NDFP spokesperson in southern Mindanao, upon Coquilla’s arrest “the People’s Democratic Government formed an investigating body to formally receive the complaints and conduct a preliminary investigation to determine the participation and culpability of respondent Coquilla.”
“Complainants filed a case against him at the People’s Democratic Government for corrupt practices, and for planning, aiding, abetting and conspiring in the commission of ferreting drugs inside the jail, of tolerating the cruel treatment and violence among inmates, and of neglecting sick prisoners of the reactionary Provincial Rehabilitation Center of Compostela Valley in his capacity as its Provincial Jail Warden since Sept. 18, 2000,” del Mundo said.
Coquilla was also accused of practicing unreasonable policies for jail visits after family of inmates complained that they are prohibited from conducting face-to-face interaction with their loved ones.
Complainants from the jail also said that medical care for sick inmates is inadequate.
“While they are admitted in separate cells, sick inmates carrying contagious diseases or not are all placed in the same cells. Those with serious ailments are not immediately brought to the hospital. There are reported deaths as a result of the lack of medical treatment. Those who are lucky to be brought to the hospital have to contend with inadequate medicines,” del Mundo said.
Coquilla also “allegedly tolerated rampant illegal drug trade inside the jail. Jail guards and visitors freely sneak in illegal drugs for inmates, as body searches for visitors are not being done,” said del Mundo. In releasing Coquilla Monday,
NDF said it “suspended its judicial proceedings as a humanitarian act in response to the pleas of his family and representatives from the GPH and well-meaning individuals, and as a gesture of compassion and mercy—a message that is reverberating in the country with the recent visit of Pope Francis.”
http://bulatlat.com/main/2015/01/19/released-comval-jail-warden-give-me-chance-to-effect-changes/
“Complainants filed a case against him at the People’s Democratic Government for corrupt practices, and for planning, aiding, abetting and conspiring in the commission of ferreting drugs inside the jail, of tolerating the cruel treatment and violence among inmates, and of neglecting sick prisoners of the reactionary Provincial Rehabilitation Center of Compostela Valley in his capacity as its Provincial Jail Warden since Sept. 18, 2000,”
MONKAYO, Compostela Valley – The New People’s Army released today the jail warden it held captive for alleged drugs trade and negligence due to “humanitarian reasons.”
Jose Mervin Coquilla, who is under the custody of the NPA Comval-North Davao South Agusan Subregional Command for 28 days, was released as a “unilateral exercise of political authority, humanitarianism, and to help propel for the immediate resumption of the Government of the Philippines (GPH)-NDFP peace negotiations,” according to the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Southern Mindanao, which ordered the release.
Coquilla was met by his wife and children and officers from the Compostela Valley provincial government.
His release was secured with the help of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and peace group Exodus for Justice and Peace.
Coquillo says he was treated well during his captivity. (Photo by Ace Morandante / Davao Today)
Coquilla was arrested on December 23, a day before the Communist Party of the Philippines started its 10-day staggered ceasefire, in Panabo City.
The warden was allegedly involved in “corrupt practices” including drugs trade and negligence inside the Compostela Valley Provincial Rehabilitation Center located in Tagum City.
In a press conference after he was released, Coquilla denied the allegations but said that “drugs are present in all jails (in the country).”
“I am willing to submit myself for an investigation,” said Coquilla He added that he should “be given a chance to effect changes.”
According to Rubi del Mundo, NDFP spokesperson in southern Mindanao, upon Coquilla’s arrest “the People’s Democratic Government formed an investigating body to formally receive the complaints and conduct a preliminary investigation to determine the participation and culpability of respondent Coquilla.”
“Complainants filed a case against him at the People’s Democratic Government for corrupt practices, and for planning, aiding, abetting and conspiring in the commission of ferreting drugs inside the jail, of tolerating the cruel treatment and violence among inmates, and of neglecting sick prisoners of the reactionary Provincial Rehabilitation Center of Compostela Valley in his capacity as its Provincial Jail Warden since Sept. 18, 2000,” del Mundo said.
Coquilla was also accused of practicing unreasonable policies for jail visits after family of inmates complained that they are prohibited from conducting face-to-face interaction with their loved ones.
Complainants from the jail also said that medical care for sick inmates is inadequate.
“While they are admitted in separate cells, sick inmates carrying contagious diseases or not are all placed in the same cells. Those with serious ailments are not immediately brought to the hospital. There are reported deaths as a result of the lack of medical treatment. Those who are lucky to be brought to the hospital have to contend with inadequate medicines,” del Mundo said.
Coquilla also “allegedly tolerated rampant illegal drug trade inside the jail. Jail guards and visitors freely sneak in illegal drugs for inmates, as body searches for visitors are not being done,” said del Mundo. In releasing Coquilla Monday,
NDF said it “suspended its judicial proceedings as a humanitarian act in response to the pleas of his family and representatives from the GPH and well-meaning individuals, and as a gesture of compassion and mercy—a message that is reverberating in the country with the recent visit of Pope Francis.”
http://bulatlat.com/main/2015/01/19/released-comval-jail-warden-give-me-chance-to-effect-changes/
Philippine authorities foil Sayyaf plot to spring bombers in Zamboanga City prison
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 19): Philippine authorities foil Sayyaf plot to spring bombers in Zamboanga City prison
A daring plot to spring Abu Sayyaf rebels from a prison in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines was foiled late Monday by jail guards, officials said.
Officials said heavily-armed troops and police commandos were also called in to help secure the prison and boats have been dispatched to patrol the coastline in case rebels pursue with their plan to free at least 3 notorious Abu Sayyaf bombers.
Jail authorities said a .45-caliber pistol, 16 magazines loaded with bullets and a hand grenade - concealed in several clay stoves - were smuggled inside the prison by female visitors.
The weapons were only discovered after guards grew suspicious over the stoves requested by the prisoners. The stoves were quickly recovered before prisoners get hold of it.
Police were also tracking down the visitors who delivered the stoves.
Officials said the plot was traced to Puruji Indama, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf operating in nearby province of Basilan, who wanted to spring his brother Bensar Indama and two other bombers Jamil Ajijul and Imran Napi from the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center.
Local village officials now want all Abu Sayyaf prisoners transferred to a bigger and tightly-guarded prison facility Camp Bagong Diwa just outside Manila where other high-profile rebels and criminals are being held.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20150119093301
A daring plot to spring Abu Sayyaf rebels from a prison in Zamboanga City in southern Philippines was foiled late Monday by jail guards, officials said.
Officials said heavily-armed troops and police commandos were also called in to help secure the prison and boats have been dispatched to patrol the coastline in case rebels pursue with their plan to free at least 3 notorious Abu Sayyaf bombers.
Jail authorities said a .45-caliber pistol, 16 magazines loaded with bullets and a hand grenade - concealed in several clay stoves - were smuggled inside the prison by female visitors.
The weapons were only discovered after guards grew suspicious over the stoves requested by the prisoners. The stoves were quickly recovered before prisoners get hold of it.
Police were also tracking down the visitors who delivered the stoves.
Officials said the plot was traced to Puruji Indama, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf operating in nearby province of Basilan, who wanted to spring his brother Bensar Indama and two other bombers Jamil Ajijul and Imran Napi from the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center.
Local village officials now want all Abu Sayyaf prisoners transferred to a bigger and tightly-guarded prison facility Camp Bagong Diwa just outside Manila where other high-profile rebels and criminals are being held.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20150119093301
BIFM: BIFM action on the Ad Hoc Committee Letter of invitation dated Dec. 15, 2014.
Statement posted to the BIFM Website (Jan 15): BIFM action on the Ad Hoc Committee Letter of invitation dated Dec. 15, 2014.
Letter of invitation dated Dec. 15, 2014.
Firstly, BIFM leadership opted not to reply in writing the invitation of Cong. RUFUS B. RODRIGUEZ, 2nd District of Cagayan De Oro City, with information that the aforcited committee will have its meeting on January 20, 2015 wherein, he invites representative of this group (BIFM) in the deliveration of House Bill No.4994.
After careful study and consultation, written reply was encoded and sent by E-mail for the information of the subject committee and others, concerned.
From:
Research and Information Bureau
http://www.bifm-rib.com/news.html
Letter of invitation dated Dec. 15, 2014.
Firstly, BIFM leadership opted not to reply in writing the invitation of Cong. RUFUS B. RODRIGUEZ, 2nd District of Cagayan De Oro City, with information that the aforcited committee will have its meeting on January 20, 2015 wherein, he invites representative of this group (BIFM) in the deliveration of House Bill No.4994.
After careful study and consultation, written reply was encoded and sent by E-mail for the information of the subject committee and others, concerned.
From:
Research and Information Bureau
http://www.bifm-rib.com/news.html
CPP: On suppression of truth during Pope’s visit and challenges to the Filipino religious
Propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Jan 19): On suppression of truth during Pope’s visit and challenges to the Filipino religious
CPP/NDF: NDFP peace panel congratulates NDFP-SMR for successful release of POW Coquilla
NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Jan 19): NDFP peace panel congratulates NDFP-SMR for successful release of POW Coquilla
CPP/NDF: Detained BJMP warden is released for humanitarian reasons
NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Jan 19): Detained BJMP warden is released for humanitarian reasons
East Sea: When the 'fox' deliberately sticks out its legs
From Vietnam Net Bridge (Jan 19): East Sea: When the 'fox' deliberately sticks out its legs
VietNamNet Bridge – It is possible that the accelerated rehabilitation and construction activities on the reef Gac Ma (Johnson) and Chu Thap (Fiery Cross) are part of China's strategic intentions of giving the international community with a fait accompli before the International Court of Justice makes a judgment.
China has turned the Fiery Cross Reef into the largest island in the Spratly Islands: Photo: SCMP
Recently, the South China Morning Post (SCMP - Hong Kong) newspaper quoted Chinese experts as saying that China could turn the Fiery Cross Reef into the largest artificial island in the Truong Sa Archipelago (Spratly Islands) of Vietnam.
This reef currently has an area of approximately 1 km2 and the land reclamation here can still be ongoing. The process of expansion is occurring faster than expected and it is likely that this reef will surpass Ba Binh (Itu Aba), the largest island in the Spratly Islands.
Overall, this is just the next step in the artificial island plot which some experts have predicted that China will continue to use in the future. So what is behind this plot?
"Status Quo" Chinese style
The construction of an airport on the Johnson Reef has caused fierce criticism and condemnation from many ASEAN countries and the world. The pictures provided by the Philippines show that this airport has two runways and two long berths cross through the reef. China itself did not refuse to certify as before. They have openly challenged countries in the region and the world that "It is the right of China!"
Compared to the construction of an airport on the island of Phu Lam (Woody Island), the airport on Johnson Reef was built in an incredibly speedy manner. The photos provided by the Philippines show that China mobilized six giant dredgers which operated day and night like a great construction site on the waters of Vietnam. It was similar on the Fiery Cross Reef. When the entire world knew its activities on the Johnson Reef, China announced its construction of an airport on the Fiery Cross Reef.
According to Taiwan's Kanwa Newspaper, China not only built airports on Johnson and Fiery Cross reefs but also urgently renovated six reefs in the Spratly Islands which they used to rob from Vietnam and turn into artificial islands. Its project to "renovate and build scale islands" in the disputed areas is a strategic measure to monopolise the South China Sea (Bien Dong Sea, East Sea), through the realization of the "U-shaped line".
Dr. Nguyen Chu Hoi, former Deputy Director of the General Department of Sea and Island Affairs, said: "The change of the status quo in the East Sea is to help strengthen China’s claims of sovereignty, creating a strategic advantage over the East Sea."
Obviously, these actions are essentially an invasion, in contrast with the statement about peace and no aggression and expansionism made by China's leaders.
This is not the first time China has used a gradually invasive measure. The key solution to handle the tension on the East Sea given by the United Nations is maintaining the "status quo" has been used by China in its own style.
On the one hand China intentionally made provocative acts, changed and then applied the "status quo" as it did with Hoang Sa Archipelago (Paracel Islands) of Vietnam in 1974 and has kept the “status quo” by occupying the islands until now, and attacked and robbed the Johnson Reef and others of Vietnam in 1988, and has “held” them, turning the territorial waters of other countries into 'disputed territory' with China.
From the early 20th century, when China began to really "eye" the East Sea, the regular tricks of China are proactively provocative acts, illegally occupying and trying to encroach and expand. China’s "U-shaped line" claim takes in Indonesia’s territorial waters. The military measures to break through the status quo will pave the way for subsequent civil remedies. In particular, the civil remedies are used in various ways, with unpredictable evolution.
After pulling the 981 oil rig into the waters of Vietnam, China drove nearly 10,000 fishing vessels into Vietnam’s waters. This was followed by construction and renovation on the reefs of Johnson, Fiery Cross, and Chau Vien (London Reefs), which belong to Vietnam's Truong Sa.
Conspiracy of presenting the International Court of Justice with a fait accompli
China conducted illegal construction activities on Johnson Reef of the Spratly Islands of Vietnam. Photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines.
In 2012, the Philippines took drastic action by lodging a complaint against China with the International Court of Justice after China occupied the Scarborough Shoals (China calls it Huangyan). The Philippines also accused China of occupying its islands and conducting construction activities to turn reefs into artificial islands.
China previously made a solemn commitment to ASEAN countries and the world of "keeping peace and stability in the East Sea," but after the Scarborough Shoals event, China continued to occupy James shoals, which is claimed by Malaysia, in 2013.
China does not recognize the role of the International Court of Justice in handling the petition of the Philippines, but in fact China is still interested in it. Along with a frantic diplomatic campaign to split the ASEAN countries, China is aggressively presenting the international community with a fait accompli before the International Court of Justice issues a verdict.
It is likely that the accelerated rehabilitation and construction on the reefs of Johnson, Fiery Cross and London is in China’s strategic intentions. The Taiwanese press as described in details the survey trip of Chinese generals down to the Spratly Islands and made many statements as: "China will declare jurisdiction over the reefs of Johnson and Fiery Cross very soon."
According to Colonel Nguyen Don Hoa, former vice president of engineering of the Navy, China has been building airports on Woody Island (in the Paracel Islands of Vietnam) and Johnson Reef (of the Spratlys Islands of Vietnam) that they have occupied by force since 1974, and in 1988 they were involved in furtive tricks in terms of geopolitical and political aspects, rather than military. The military airports built by China on Woody Island and Johnson Reef are used only by helicopters. Fighter aircraft cannot make a landing due to their limited length.
Moreover, military power at sea does not depend on "unsinkable aircraft carriers" as the Chinese press stated but on warplanes and warships. During its deployment of the 981 oil rig in Vietnam’s waters, Chinese military aircraft also took off from the airport on the island of Hainan, not from the Woody Island, which is closer.
Col. Don Hoa compared China's tricks like "a fox that wants to enter the house of a rabbit to eat the rabbit and it enters the house by sticking out each leg one by one. When all the legs are in, the fox will jump on it to swallow the rabbit. China is step by step doing it in that way!"
According to Dr. Nguyen Chu Hoi, after consolidating its bases in Spratly Islands, China will ask for national jurisdiction in the exclusive economic zones to control all commercial activities through the East Coast. This is a sinister plot by China to strengthen forces and then control the entire international maritime routes.
http://english.vietnamnet.vn/fms/special-reports/121192/east-sea--when-the--fox--deliberately-sticks-out-its-legs.html
China has turned the Fiery Cross Reef into the largest island in the Spratly Islands: Photo: SCMP
Recently, the South China Morning Post (SCMP - Hong Kong) newspaper quoted Chinese experts as saying that China could turn the Fiery Cross Reef into the largest artificial island in the Truong Sa Archipelago (Spratly Islands) of Vietnam.
This reef currently has an area of approximately 1 km2 and the land reclamation here can still be ongoing. The process of expansion is occurring faster than expected and it is likely that this reef will surpass Ba Binh (Itu Aba), the largest island in the Spratly Islands.
Overall, this is just the next step in the artificial island plot which some experts have predicted that China will continue to use in the future. So what is behind this plot?
"Status Quo" Chinese style
The construction of an airport on the Johnson Reef has caused fierce criticism and condemnation from many ASEAN countries and the world. The pictures provided by the Philippines show that this airport has two runways and two long berths cross through the reef. China itself did not refuse to certify as before. They have openly challenged countries in the region and the world that "It is the right of China!"
Compared to the construction of an airport on the island of Phu Lam (Woody Island), the airport on Johnson Reef was built in an incredibly speedy manner. The photos provided by the Philippines show that China mobilized six giant dredgers which operated day and night like a great construction site on the waters of Vietnam. It was similar on the Fiery Cross Reef. When the entire world knew its activities on the Johnson Reef, China announced its construction of an airport on the Fiery Cross Reef.
According to Taiwan's Kanwa Newspaper, China not only built airports on Johnson and Fiery Cross reefs but also urgently renovated six reefs in the Spratly Islands which they used to rob from Vietnam and turn into artificial islands. Its project to "renovate and build scale islands" in the disputed areas is a strategic measure to monopolise the South China Sea (Bien Dong Sea, East Sea), through the realization of the "U-shaped line".
Dr. Nguyen Chu Hoi, former Deputy Director of the General Department of Sea and Island Affairs, said: "The change of the status quo in the East Sea is to help strengthen China’s claims of sovereignty, creating a strategic advantage over the East Sea."
Obviously, these actions are essentially an invasion, in contrast with the statement about peace and no aggression and expansionism made by China's leaders.
This is not the first time China has used a gradually invasive measure. The key solution to handle the tension on the East Sea given by the United Nations is maintaining the "status quo" has been used by China in its own style.
On the one hand China intentionally made provocative acts, changed and then applied the "status quo" as it did with Hoang Sa Archipelago (Paracel Islands) of Vietnam in 1974 and has kept the “status quo” by occupying the islands until now, and attacked and robbed the Johnson Reef and others of Vietnam in 1988, and has “held” them, turning the territorial waters of other countries into 'disputed territory' with China.
From the early 20th century, when China began to really "eye" the East Sea, the regular tricks of China are proactively provocative acts, illegally occupying and trying to encroach and expand. China’s "U-shaped line" claim takes in Indonesia’s territorial waters. The military measures to break through the status quo will pave the way for subsequent civil remedies. In particular, the civil remedies are used in various ways, with unpredictable evolution.
After pulling the 981 oil rig into the waters of Vietnam, China drove nearly 10,000 fishing vessels into Vietnam’s waters. This was followed by construction and renovation on the reefs of Johnson, Fiery Cross, and Chau Vien (London Reefs), which belong to Vietnam's Truong Sa.
Conspiracy of presenting the International Court of Justice with a fait accompli
China conducted illegal construction activities on Johnson Reef of the Spratly Islands of Vietnam. Photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines.
In 2012, the Philippines took drastic action by lodging a complaint against China with the International Court of Justice after China occupied the Scarborough Shoals (China calls it Huangyan). The Philippines also accused China of occupying its islands and conducting construction activities to turn reefs into artificial islands.
China previously made a solemn commitment to ASEAN countries and the world of "keeping peace and stability in the East Sea," but after the Scarborough Shoals event, China continued to occupy James shoals, which is claimed by Malaysia, in 2013.
China does not recognize the role of the International Court of Justice in handling the petition of the Philippines, but in fact China is still interested in it. Along with a frantic diplomatic campaign to split the ASEAN countries, China is aggressively presenting the international community with a fait accompli before the International Court of Justice issues a verdict.
It is likely that the accelerated rehabilitation and construction on the reefs of Johnson, Fiery Cross and London is in China’s strategic intentions. The Taiwanese press as described in details the survey trip of Chinese generals down to the Spratly Islands and made many statements as: "China will declare jurisdiction over the reefs of Johnson and Fiery Cross very soon."
According to Colonel Nguyen Don Hoa, former vice president of engineering of the Navy, China has been building airports on Woody Island (in the Paracel Islands of Vietnam) and Johnson Reef (of the Spratlys Islands of Vietnam) that they have occupied by force since 1974, and in 1988 they were involved in furtive tricks in terms of geopolitical and political aspects, rather than military. The military airports built by China on Woody Island and Johnson Reef are used only by helicopters. Fighter aircraft cannot make a landing due to their limited length.
Moreover, military power at sea does not depend on "unsinkable aircraft carriers" as the Chinese press stated but on warplanes and warships. During its deployment of the 981 oil rig in Vietnam’s waters, Chinese military aircraft also took off from the airport on the island of Hainan, not from the Woody Island, which is closer.
Col. Don Hoa compared China's tricks like "a fox that wants to enter the house of a rabbit to eat the rabbit and it enters the house by sticking out each leg one by one. When all the legs are in, the fox will jump on it to swallow the rabbit. China is step by step doing it in that way!"
According to Dr. Nguyen Chu Hoi, after consolidating its bases in Spratly Islands, China will ask for national jurisdiction in the exclusive economic zones to control all commercial activities through the East Coast. This is a sinister plot by China to strengthen forces and then control the entire international maritime routes.
http://english.vietnamnet.vn/fms/special-reports/121192/east-sea--when-the--fox--deliberately-sticks-out-its-legs.html
Bomb explodes at market place in Philippines
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 19): Bomb explodes at market place in Philippines
A homemade bomb exploded on Monday at a market area in the southern Philippine province of North Cotabato, officials said.
Officials said the bomb was discovered by civilians under one of the stalls inside the Kabacan town market. But it exploded even before soldiers could disarm the bomb.
Officials said no one was killed or injured in the blast because the area had been evacuated immediately.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the bombing, but the province has been under rebel attack the past weeks with explosives detonating in different towns and had already toppled two power pylons, cutting of electricity in North Cotabato.
Military and police have blamed jihadists from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement who are fighting for Muslim independence in the troubled region.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20150119064055
A homemade bomb exploded on Monday at a market area in the southern Philippine province of North Cotabato, officials said.
Officials said the bomb was discovered by civilians under one of the stalls inside the Kabacan town market. But it exploded even before soldiers could disarm the bomb.
Officials said no one was killed or injured in the blast because the area had been evacuated immediately.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the bombing, but the province has been under rebel attack the past weeks with explosives detonating in different towns and had already toppled two power pylons, cutting of electricity in North Cotabato.
Military and police have blamed jihadists from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement who are fighting for Muslim independence in the troubled region.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20150119064055
Warring MILF groups clash in Maguindanao
From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 19): Warring MILF groups clash in Maguindanao
Warring members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) locked in long standing family feud, clashed late Saturday after one MILF commander attacked a sub-village here, local and military officials said today.
Reports reaching the 6th Infantry Division Public affairs unit (DPAO) said the clash started at about 10:30 p.m. sending villagers fleeing to safer grounds.
According to Shariff Aguak Municipal Secretary Hadji Yasser Ampatuan, the attackers belonged to a sub-group of the MILF’s 105th Base Command under a certain Commander Tamano.
Residents told local military officials that the firefight Saturday erupted after Tamano’s group tried to arrest a suspect in the village.
The group apparently wanted to prove to authorities it could arrest the suspect, wanted for a 1998 murder case, even without an arrest warrant.
Although they knew the suspect, the residents told media they preferred not to give names for fear of retaliation.
The group whom Tamano’s men engaged with was also heavily armed.
Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) told reporters that he happened to pass by Shariff Aguak at around 3:30 p.m. Saturday or hours before the conflict started.
http://www.mb.com.ph/warring-milf-groups-clash-in-maguindanao/
Warring members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) locked in long standing family feud, clashed late Saturday after one MILF commander attacked a sub-village here, local and military officials said today.
Reports reaching the 6th Infantry Division Public affairs unit (DPAO) said the clash started at about 10:30 p.m. sending villagers fleeing to safer grounds.
According to Shariff Aguak Municipal Secretary Hadji Yasser Ampatuan, the attackers belonged to a sub-group of the MILF’s 105th Base Command under a certain Commander Tamano.
Residents told local military officials that the firefight Saturday erupted after Tamano’s group tried to arrest a suspect in the village.
The group apparently wanted to prove to authorities it could arrest the suspect, wanted for a 1998 murder case, even without an arrest warrant.
Although they knew the suspect, the residents told media they preferred not to give names for fear of retaliation.
The group whom Tamano’s men engaged with was also heavily armed.
Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) told reporters that he happened to pass by Shariff Aguak at around 3:30 p.m. Saturday or hours before the conflict started.
http://www.mb.com.ph/warring-milf-groups-clash-in-maguindanao/
MILF: Sincerity will make decommissioning efforts succeed
From the Philippine Star (Jan 20): MILF: Sincerity will make decommissioning efforts succeed
With their strong love for guns fanned by decades of feudal atmosphere in their surroundings, how can members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) easily depart from their firearms?
MILF chief negotiator Muhaquer Iqbal and his government counterpart, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, both said on Monday that the decommissioning of rebel forces and collection of their firearms will start this year as agreed by both sides.
Iqbal said it is their sincerity in furthering their peace compact with the government that guerillas shall willingly abide with the decommissioning process.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) had placed from only between 12,000 to 13,000 their estimate of the number of armed MILF members.
Many local stakeholders in the Mindanao peace process believe the group has no fewer than 30,000 to 50,000 followers, a big number of them armed with automatic weapons, much more than the estimate of the AFP and the PNP.
The International Decommissioning Body (IDB), the government and the MILF will start with the inventory of guns in the hands of rebels this year.
The IDB is comprised of representatives from Turkey, the European Union, and other foreign states helping push the government-MILF peace efforts forward.
Many local executives, among them Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Mujiv Hataman and Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu, assured to help in the decommissioning process through community projects that could generate livelihood opportunities for MILF members.
Hataman said providing MILF communities with needed infrastructures will improve the productivity of rebels and make them feel the relevance of not keeping firearms to fight the government.
Hataman's office has actively been implementing since 2012 costly infrastructure projects and socio-economic interventions in areas where there are MILF camps, in support of Malacañang's development agenda meant to improve the lives of rebels in far-flung peasant and fishing enclaves.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles said the IDB will oversee the decommissioning of the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), including the inventory and verification of their fighters and weapons.
There will also be a joint security assessment and an inventory of duly-constituted Philippine security troops and units in the proposed Bangsamoro core territory, as a prelude for the redeployment of military personnel and to “avoid a security vacuum” in the proposed MILF-led Bangsamoro government, Deles added.
The decommissioning process will also focus on how to address private armies and armed followers of partisan personalities in Muslim areas, known for keeping firearm arsenals as protection against political enemies, as status symbol, and as “tools” for perpetuating power.
The MILF said it is now ready to forge ahead with the decommissioning process.
Deles said members of the IDB will meet this month to discuss concerns regarding the initiative.
The MILF’s central leadership had even announced it will officiate a symbolic turnover of firearms by guerillas as a kickoff rite for the IDB's decommissioning effort.
“Surely, it will be a sentimental thing for our members. We are sincere in keeping our commitment to decommission our forces as part of our peace agreement with government,” Iqbal said.
Iqbal is chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, which is comprised of representatives from the MILF and government.
Mangudadatu, presiding chair of the Maguindanao peace and order council, said one way of supporting the decommissioning process is to settle more clan wars involving families identified with the MILF and their adversaries.
Mangudadatu, who has jurisdiction over 36 towns that are known havens of Moro forces, said they have settled at least 48 clan wars in Maguindanao in the past 36 months.
“This is our response to a directive to me, from no less than President Benigno Aquino III, to initiate the reconciliation of feuding clans in Maguindanao, in support of the normalization and decommissioning efforts of the government and the MILF,” said Mangudadatu, also concurrent chair of the Maguindanao Task Force on Reconciliation and Unification.
The governor said most of the 48 clan wars the task force had settled were done with the help of representatives from the MILF and the Army's 6th Infantry Division.
Local executives in Lanao del Sur, a component province of ARMM, which accounts for most number of still unsettled clan wars in the region, are just as ready to help in the decommissioning process too.
Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. said he and his constituent-mayors shall embark on programs that can complement the decommissioning initiative.
"That's good for our people, our province. We have no problem helping the GPH and MILF carry that out," Adiong said.
The MILF had repeatedly insinuated, through its website, the www.luwaran.com, that the decommissioning process will boost the efforts of restoring normalcy in areas devastated by armed conflicts in decades past.
Iqbal, who, as MILF negotiator, was instrumental in the crafting of the Oct. 15, 2013 Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and, subsequently, the March 27, 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro, assured of their group’s dedication to the decommissioning process.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/01/19/1414583/milf-sincerity-will-make-decommissioning-efforts-succeed
With their strong love for guns fanned by decades of feudal atmosphere in their surroundings, how can members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) easily depart from their firearms?
MILF chief negotiator Muhaquer Iqbal and his government counterpart, Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, both said on Monday that the decommissioning of rebel forces and collection of their firearms will start this year as agreed by both sides.
Iqbal said it is their sincerity in furthering their peace compact with the government that guerillas shall willingly abide with the decommissioning process.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) had placed from only between 12,000 to 13,000 their estimate of the number of armed MILF members.
Many local stakeholders in the Mindanao peace process believe the group has no fewer than 30,000 to 50,000 followers, a big number of them armed with automatic weapons, much more than the estimate of the AFP and the PNP.
The International Decommissioning Body (IDB), the government and the MILF will start with the inventory of guns in the hands of rebels this year.
The IDB is comprised of representatives from Turkey, the European Union, and other foreign states helping push the government-MILF peace efforts forward.
Many local executives, among them Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Mujiv Hataman and Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu, assured to help in the decommissioning process through community projects that could generate livelihood opportunities for MILF members.
Hataman said providing MILF communities with needed infrastructures will improve the productivity of rebels and make them feel the relevance of not keeping firearms to fight the government.
Hataman's office has actively been implementing since 2012 costly infrastructure projects and socio-economic interventions in areas where there are MILF camps, in support of Malacañang's development agenda meant to improve the lives of rebels in far-flung peasant and fishing enclaves.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles said the IDB will oversee the decommissioning of the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), including the inventory and verification of their fighters and weapons.
There will also be a joint security assessment and an inventory of duly-constituted Philippine security troops and units in the proposed Bangsamoro core territory, as a prelude for the redeployment of military personnel and to “avoid a security vacuum” in the proposed MILF-led Bangsamoro government, Deles added.
The decommissioning process will also focus on how to address private armies and armed followers of partisan personalities in Muslim areas, known for keeping firearm arsenals as protection against political enemies, as status symbol, and as “tools” for perpetuating power.
The MILF said it is now ready to forge ahead with the decommissioning process.
Deles said members of the IDB will meet this month to discuss concerns regarding the initiative.
The MILF’s central leadership had even announced it will officiate a symbolic turnover of firearms by guerillas as a kickoff rite for the IDB's decommissioning effort.
“Surely, it will be a sentimental thing for our members. We are sincere in keeping our commitment to decommission our forces as part of our peace agreement with government,” Iqbal said.
Iqbal is chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, which is comprised of representatives from the MILF and government.
Mangudadatu, presiding chair of the Maguindanao peace and order council, said one way of supporting the decommissioning process is to settle more clan wars involving families identified with the MILF and their adversaries.
Mangudadatu, who has jurisdiction over 36 towns that are known havens of Moro forces, said they have settled at least 48 clan wars in Maguindanao in the past 36 months.
“This is our response to a directive to me, from no less than President Benigno Aquino III, to initiate the reconciliation of feuding clans in Maguindanao, in support of the normalization and decommissioning efforts of the government and the MILF,” said Mangudadatu, also concurrent chair of the Maguindanao Task Force on Reconciliation and Unification.
The governor said most of the 48 clan wars the task force had settled were done with the help of representatives from the MILF and the Army's 6th Infantry Division.
Local executives in Lanao del Sur, a component province of ARMM, which accounts for most number of still unsettled clan wars in the region, are just as ready to help in the decommissioning process too.
Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. said he and his constituent-mayors shall embark on programs that can complement the decommissioning initiative.
"That's good for our people, our province. We have no problem helping the GPH and MILF carry that out," Adiong said.
The MILF had repeatedly insinuated, through its website, the www.luwaran.com, that the decommissioning process will boost the efforts of restoring normalcy in areas devastated by armed conflicts in decades past.
Iqbal, who, as MILF negotiator, was instrumental in the crafting of the Oct. 15, 2013 Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and, subsequently, the March 27, 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro, assured of their group’s dedication to the decommissioning process.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/01/19/1414583/milf-sincerity-will-make-decommissioning-efforts-succeed
Army intel officer killed in ambush
From the Philippine Star (Jan 20): Army intel officer killed in ambush
Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen killed an Army intelligence officer in an ambush on the outskirts of Patikul, Sulu on Sunday, the military reported yesterday.
Reports from Joint Task Group Sulu identified the victim as Cpl. Arjan Punzalan, who was with the Army’s Intelligence Service Group based in Sulu.
The military said the victim had just visited his father-in-law in Barangay Latih when he was gunned down by an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf bandits at 6:15 a.m in the vicinity of Sitio Buahan.
Punzalan died from multiple gunshot wounds in the body.
A manhunt for the suspects is underway.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/01/20/1414603/army-intel-officer-killed-ambush
Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen killed an Army intelligence officer in an ambush on the outskirts of Patikul, Sulu on Sunday, the military reported yesterday.
Reports from Joint Task Group Sulu identified the victim as Cpl. Arjan Punzalan, who was with the Army’s Intelligence Service Group based in Sulu.
The military said the victim had just visited his father-in-law in Barangay Latih when he was gunned down by an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf bandits at 6:15 a.m in the vicinity of Sitio Buahan.
Punzalan died from multiple gunshot wounds in the body.
A manhunt for the suspects is underway.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/01/20/1414603/army-intel-officer-killed-ambush
Military prepares for NPA attacks
From the Manila Standard Today (Jan 19): Military prepares for NPA attacks
The military directed its troops to prepare for the resumption of offensives against the New People’s Army (NPA) once its unilateral ceasefire expires on January 20, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Colonel Restituto Padilla said on Monday.
“The ceasefire will be ending tomorrow. The full range of military operations will be back,” he said.
The NPA has also set its own staggered unilateral Christmas truce, but both the AFP and the NPA have accused each other of violating their own ceasefire.
Padilla, however, denied that the military violated its own truce and challenged the NPA “to show proof.”
“All of our troops did not conduct any offensive against the NPA during the duration of our ceasefire. They stayed in their camps ready to defend themselves if attacked,” he said.
Reports during the ceasefire period showed some NPA ambush incidents against security forces that killed and wounded a number of troops, which NPA consistently denied.
Meanwhile, the AFP has condemned the NPA for not releasing the three policemen they captured in Surigao del Norte in November 2014.
“We are saddened that instead of fulfilling their promise of releasing the cops, the NPA is now engaging in propaganda war by blaming the AFP of causing the suspension of the release,” AFP public affairs chef Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc said.
“There is no truth to the allegations that the military has launched offensive operations against the NPA bandits in violation to the government-declared suspension of offensive military operations (SOMO) that ends on January 19,” he added.
Cabunoc said that “in case the NPA bandits continue to renege on its promise to release the victims, the AFP will do its best to rescue the hostages after the lifting of the SOMO (Suspension of Military offensives).
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/01/20/military-prepares-for-npa-attacks/
The military directed its troops to prepare for the resumption of offensives against the New People’s Army (NPA) once its unilateral ceasefire expires on January 20, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Colonel Restituto Padilla said on Monday.
“The ceasefire will be ending tomorrow. The full range of military operations will be back,” he said.
The NPA has also set its own staggered unilateral Christmas truce, but both the AFP and the NPA have accused each other of violating their own ceasefire.
Padilla, however, denied that the military violated its own truce and challenged the NPA “to show proof.”
“All of our troops did not conduct any offensive against the NPA during the duration of our ceasefire. They stayed in their camps ready to defend themselves if attacked,” he said.
Reports during the ceasefire period showed some NPA ambush incidents against security forces that killed and wounded a number of troops, which NPA consistently denied.
Meanwhile, the AFP has condemned the NPA for not releasing the three policemen they captured in Surigao del Norte in November 2014.
“We are saddened that instead of fulfilling their promise of releasing the cops, the NPA is now engaging in propaganda war by blaming the AFP of causing the suspension of the release,” AFP public affairs chef Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc said.
“There is no truth to the allegations that the military has launched offensive operations against the NPA bandits in violation to the government-declared suspension of offensive military operations (SOMO) that ends on January 19,” he added.
Cabunoc said that “in case the NPA bandits continue to renege on its promise to release the victims, the AFP will do its best to rescue the hostages after the lifting of the SOMO (Suspension of Military offensives).
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/01/20/military-prepares-for-npa-attacks/
Back to normal after Pope visit: NPA vs AFP resumes
From ABS-CBN (Jan 19): Back to normal after Pope visit: NPA vs AFP resumes
The offensive operation against the New People's Army (NPA) is set to resume tomorrow, a day after the state and pastoral visit of Pope Francis, the military said.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines started its ceasefire last December 18.
The Communist Party of the Philippines did not fully reciprocate the government’s move, but set its ceasefire from December 24 to 26, December 31 to January 1, and during the papal events from January 15 until today.
In extending the ceasefire to the pope’s visit, the CPP said it was an "opportunity for religious celebration and to raise outstanding issues such as military abuses and violations of human rights and children’s rights, Hacienda Luisita and widespread landlessness, poverty and exploitation of peasants and workers, bureaucratic corruption and government neglect of calamity survivors and the poor."
The military, on the other hand, helped in securing Pope Francis.
AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said: “With the termination of the [Suspension of Military Operations], we will be back with our focused military operations against specific armed groups threatening peace and development in rural areas.”
Truce violated
“We will continue with what we’ve been doing. We will continue to enforce law enforcement operations then go after criminals and then implement our target objective for the year in line with Oplan Bayanihan,” Armed Forces spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla added.
He said the military observed the ceasefire, contrary to allegations from the Reds.
“Well, show proof… Soldiers stayed at their posts in all areas since the start of the SOMO. They didn’t move, they did not go on offensive operation. They just went on defensive operation,” he said.
Cabunoc also slammed the communists for putting the blame on the military for delaying the release of three policemen abducted by the NPA in Surigao del Norte last November.
“Obviously, they wanted to drive a wedge between the AFP and the PNP which had shown an effective collaboration in addressing the social issues in the local communities that had been exploited by the (communists) in the past,” he said.
He said the communists lost the opportunity to show support for Pope Francis’ message of mercy and compassion.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/19/15/back-normal-after-pope-visit-npa-vs-afp-resumes
The offensive operation against the New People's Army (NPA) is set to resume tomorrow, a day after the state and pastoral visit of Pope Francis, the military said.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines started its ceasefire last December 18.
The Communist Party of the Philippines did not fully reciprocate the government’s move, but set its ceasefire from December 24 to 26, December 31 to January 1, and during the papal events from January 15 until today.
In extending the ceasefire to the pope’s visit, the CPP said it was an "opportunity for religious celebration and to raise outstanding issues such as military abuses and violations of human rights and children’s rights, Hacienda Luisita and widespread landlessness, poverty and exploitation of peasants and workers, bureaucratic corruption and government neglect of calamity survivors and the poor."
The military, on the other hand, helped in securing Pope Francis.
AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said: “With the termination of the [Suspension of Military Operations], we will be back with our focused military operations against specific armed groups threatening peace and development in rural areas.”
Truce violated
“We will continue with what we’ve been doing. We will continue to enforce law enforcement operations then go after criminals and then implement our target objective for the year in line with Oplan Bayanihan,” Armed Forces spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla added.
He said the military observed the ceasefire, contrary to allegations from the Reds.
“Well, show proof… Soldiers stayed at their posts in all areas since the start of the SOMO. They didn’t move, they did not go on offensive operation. They just went on defensive operation,” he said.
Cabunoc also slammed the communists for putting the blame on the military for delaying the release of three policemen abducted by the NPA in Surigao del Norte last November.
“Obviously, they wanted to drive a wedge between the AFP and the PNP which had shown an effective collaboration in addressing the social issues in the local communities that had been exploited by the (communists) in the past,” he said.
He said the communists lost the opportunity to show support for Pope Francis’ message of mercy and compassion.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/19/15/back-normal-after-pope-visit-npa-vs-afp-resumes
AFP: Lessons learned in Pope visit
From ABS-CBN (Jan 19): AFP: Lessons learned in Pope visit
The spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday shared some of the learnings of the Philippine military during the five-day visit of Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.
AFP spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said security officials are very satisfied with the outcome of the Pope's visit, which saw more than six million Filipinos gather during the final Eucharistic Celebration at Rizal Park -- a world record for a papal gathering.
Nearly 40,000 soldiers and police were deployed to protect the pontiff during the Pope's visit.
"Overall, generally peaceful, orderly, saka maayos. Haping-hapi ang organizing committee. Pero yung credit belongs to the people because of their cooperation," he told reporters.
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin also thanked the public for their "excellent conduct" during the five-day visit of Pope Francis.
Padilla said the AFP will hold an awarding ceremony for all military units involved in the security preparations for the Pope.
However, he also said there is still room for improvement "which will be good opportunities to fine-tune and refine for our next set of VIPs who will be visiting the country."
One area for improvement is crowd management, noting that some devotees were injured during a scuffle in Rizal Park hours before the Papal Mass.
"Siguro yung sa crowd management. May kunti pang kailangang idagdag dun. Yung sa pagpasok, provision ng mga equipment, sa pagcheck ng mga tao...Nag-bog down yung mga scanners so provisions for backup kit," he said.
He added: "May mga lugar kasi na nagtutulakan pa rin. Kulang na siguro ng mga tao namin sa naka-assign sa mga route. Siguro kelangan bigyan pa ng mga bullhorn kasi hindi sila pinakikinggan e. Mahina yung boses so kung may bullhorn sila, pakikingan sila, para marinig. Mga ganung klaseng bagay, maliliit na bagay pero napakaimportante."
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/19/15/afp-lessons-learned-pope-visit
The spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday shared some of the learnings of the Philippine military during the five-day visit of Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.
AFP spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said security officials are very satisfied with the outcome of the Pope's visit, which saw more than six million Filipinos gather during the final Eucharistic Celebration at Rizal Park -- a world record for a papal gathering.
Nearly 40,000 soldiers and police were deployed to protect the pontiff during the Pope's visit.
"Overall, generally peaceful, orderly, saka maayos. Haping-hapi ang organizing committee. Pero yung credit belongs to the people because of their cooperation," he told reporters.
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin also thanked the public for their "excellent conduct" during the five-day visit of Pope Francis.
Padilla said the AFP will hold an awarding ceremony for all military units involved in the security preparations for the Pope.
However, he also said there is still room for improvement "which will be good opportunities to fine-tune and refine for our next set of VIPs who will be visiting the country."
One area for improvement is crowd management, noting that some devotees were injured during a scuffle in Rizal Park hours before the Papal Mass.
"Siguro yung sa crowd management. May kunti pang kailangang idagdag dun. Yung sa pagpasok, provision ng mga equipment, sa pagcheck ng mga tao...Nag-bog down yung mga scanners so provisions for backup kit," he said.
He added: "May mga lugar kasi na nagtutulakan pa rin. Kulang na siguro ng mga tao namin sa naka-assign sa mga route. Siguro kelangan bigyan pa ng mga bullhorn kasi hindi sila pinakikinggan e. Mahina yung boses so kung may bullhorn sila, pakikingan sila, para marinig. Mga ganung klaseng bagay, maliliit na bagay pero napakaimportante."
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/19/15/afp-lessons-learned-pope-visit
Military lifts red alert after Pope leaves
From ABS-CBN (Jan 19): Military lifts red alert after Pope leaves
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) lifted today the red alert it had declared ahead of the papal visit.
The alert status is now normal.
AFP Public Affairs chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc also relayed AFP chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang’s message of gratitude.
He said Catapang is thankful to Filipinos for their “cooperation with security forces.”
The military went on red alert last January 10 to make sure that “no enemies of the state” will take advantage of the papal visit.
The AFP sent around 20,000 soldiers to help the Philippine National Police (PNP) in securing the pope.
The AFP described the security operations as “very successful.”
“It’s very successful because everybody cooperated, willing to face the challenge of securing the Pope and making his visit successful,” said Catapang.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/19/15/military-lifts-red-alert-after-pope-leaves
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) lifted today the red alert it had declared ahead of the papal visit.
The alert status is now normal.
AFP Public Affairs chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc also relayed AFP chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang’s message of gratitude.
He said Catapang is thankful to Filipinos for their “cooperation with security forces.”
The military went on red alert last January 10 to make sure that “no enemies of the state” will take advantage of the papal visit.
The AFP sent around 20,000 soldiers to help the Philippine National Police (PNP) in securing the pope.
The AFP described the security operations as “very successful.”
“It’s very successful because everybody cooperated, willing to face the challenge of securing the Pope and making his visit successful,” said Catapang.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/19/15/military-lifts-red-alert-after-pope-leaves
Explosion rocks Kabacan public market
From ABS-CBN (Jan19): Explosion rocks Kabacan public market
An explosion rocked the vicinity of a public market in Kabacan, North Cotabato at about 6 p.m. Monday.
According to David Saure, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) Officer, the explosion happened in the market's dried goods section.
There were no reported casualties in the incident.
Authorities are now investigating the incident to determine the motive, as well as the people involved in the bombing.
A transmission tower of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) in Barangay Batolawan, Pikit, North Cotabato also toppled after it was bombed Sunday night.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/01/19/15/explosion-rocks-kabacan-public-market
An explosion rocked the vicinity of a public market in Kabacan, North Cotabato at about 6 p.m. Monday.
According to David Saure, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) Officer, the explosion happened in the market's dried goods section.
There were no reported casualties in the incident.
Authorities are now investigating the incident to determine the motive, as well as the people involved in the bombing.
A transmission tower of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) in Barangay Batolawan, Pikit, North Cotabato also toppled after it was bombed Sunday night.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/01/19/15/explosion-rocks-kabacan-public-market
Government ceasefire ends: NPA engaging in propaganda war
From Ang Malaya (Jan 19): Government ceasefire ends: NPA engaging in propaganda war
“We are saddened that instead of fulfilling their promise of releasing the victims, the NPA is now engaging in propaganda war by blaming the AFP of causing the suspension of the release of the policemen,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office Chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said.
The communist wants AFP to temporary pull out operatives in Barangays Sico-sico and Camam-onan, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte prior to release of three PNP men.
“Obviously, they wanted to drive a wedge between the AFP and the PNP which had shown an effective collaboration in addressing the social issues in the local communities that had been exploited by the (rebels) in the past,” Lt. Col. Cabunoc adds.
“If the CPP-NPA-NDF want to work with the government in resolving the issues peacefully, an example of a positive step towards peace is the unconditional release of the kidnap victims.”
Government imposed ceasefire against the New People’s Army is ending today.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/01/19/7517-government-ceasefire-ends-npa-engaging-in-propaganda-war
“We are saddened that instead of fulfilling their promise of releasing the victims, the NPA is now engaging in propaganda war by blaming the AFP of causing the suspension of the release of the policemen,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office Chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said.
The communist wants AFP to temporary pull out operatives in Barangays Sico-sico and Camam-onan, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte prior to release of three PNP men.
“Obviously, they wanted to drive a wedge between the AFP and the PNP which had shown an effective collaboration in addressing the social issues in the local communities that had been exploited by the (rebels) in the past,” Lt. Col. Cabunoc adds.
“If the CPP-NPA-NDF want to work with the government in resolving the issues peacefully, an example of a positive step towards peace is the unconditional release of the kidnap victims.”
Government imposed ceasefire against the New People’s Army is ending today.
http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/01/19/7517-government-ceasefire-ends-npa-engaging-in-propaganda-war
Arrest of ‘NDF consultant’ hit
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 10): Arrest of ‘NDF consultant’ hit
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines is claiming that Rogelio Posadas, who was arrested Jan. 9 by combined police and military personnel in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, is a member of the NDFP peace consultants.
NDFP negotiating panel chairperson, Luis Jalandoni, in a statement he issued, condemned the arrest of the NDFP consultant claiming that Posadas had been issued an NDFP Document of Identification Number ND978313 under the assumed name of Angel Jose.
Jalandoni, a former priest from Negros Occidental, said Posadas had been issued a corresponding Letter of Acknowledgment signed by GRP Negotiating Panel Chairperson Silvestre H. Bello III.
“He (Posadas) is therefore covered by the safety and immunity guarantees under the JASIG,” Jalandoni added.
However, Major Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, 3rd Infantry Division commander, said yesterday about the allegations of Jalandoni, “That is what they claim. This is already up to higher authorities and the court to decide.”
Both Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, and Senior Supt. Milko Lirazan, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, said that, Posadas, secretary of the Northern Negros Front- Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros, has pending arrest warrants for murder, homicide and robbery-in-band.
“It’s not (for) me to decide. It’s up to the trial courts concerned”, Aying said, in reaction to the claims of Jalandoni.
Posadas is now detained at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Bacolod City.
Jalandoni demands that the Aquino government respect and comply with its obligation under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) signed by both negotiating panels and approved by their respective principals in 1995, by releasing Posadas and 14 other illegally detained NDFP consultants.
The NDFP had been engaged in peace negotiations with the government for the past 27 years, but the on-and-off talks have not moved beyond minor agreements.
Army deploys men to secure NGCP towers in North Cotabato following bombing
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): Army deploys men to secure NGCP towers in North Cotabato following bombing
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726537
The Army’s 6th Infantry Division has deployed troops and
militiamen in the interior villages of Pikit, North
Cotabato following the bombing of another steel transmission tower
Sunday night.
Capt. Joanne Petinglay, speaking for the 6th ID, said
improvised bomb with mobile phone as trigger mechanism toppled National Grid
Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Tower No. 42 in Sitio Ponol, Barangay
Batulawan, Pikit at about 8:10 p.m.
Supt. Jordaine Maribojo, Task Force Pikit commander, said
post blast investigation showed that two IEDs made of 81 mm mortars were
planted and set off at the foot of the NGCP pylon, causing it to tilt and
plunging into darkness Maguindanao, part of North Cotabato and Cotabato City
Maribojo said soldiers and police officers, backed by
militiamen, were deployed in other NGCP power lines to prevent similar attacks
in the future.
Petinglay said soldiers from the 7th Infantry Battalion were
ordered to ensure no similar bombing incident in the future.
”It could be the work of lawless elements living nearby,”
Maribojo said, adding that the tower was located in an isolated area where
lawless men move freely.
He expressed sadness the bombing created discomfort among
many people in two provinces and Cotabato
City
NGCP Tower 42 was still on fire when 7th IB troopers and
police reached the area about 20 minutes after the blast.
No one has claimed responsibility for the attack.
On January 13, suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic
Freedom Fighters (BIFF) set off three adjoining IEDs at the foot of NGCP Tower
26, toppling it and plunging the same areas in a three hour power outage.
In a statement, the NGCP said the toppled tower in Barangay
Batulawan is yet to be repaired.
The blast cut off power transmission from Maramag power
station to North Cotabato and Maguindanao, including Cotabato City
Power was restored Sunday night at past 11 p.m. with the
power supply coming from NGCP’s Tacurong substation.
NGCP personnel escorted by soldiers and policemen are not
conducting rehabilitation of the fallen pylon tower. NGCP also appealed
to residents near the transmission towers to help the power firm secure its
facilities from lawless elements saying ‘everybody is affected when power is
cut.”
No one has claimed responsibility in Sunday night’s bombing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726537
Phil. Army 7ID readies for APEC
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): Phil. Army 7ID readies for APEC
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726672
The Philippine Army's 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division is
preparing its troops for deployment to the upcoming Asia Pacific Economic
Cooperaton (APEC) meetings.
The Philippines
The following activities in 7ID's area of responsibilities
during APEC 2015 will be the First Senior Official’s Meeting (SOM1) and other
related meetings in Clark, Pampanga and Finance Deputies Meeting (FDM) in Bagac
Bataan.
The event will also be participated in by more than 4,000
international media practitioners and 2,000 private business visitors who have
signified their intention to visit tourist destinations in the country over the
course of the hosting year.
Major General Glorioso Miranda, Phil. Army 7ID commander,
said the 7ID troops will assist and support the Philippine National
Police/local government units in the conduct of security operations, peace and
order, and emergency preparedness to ensure the successful hosting of the APEC
meetings.
"This is part of our security support to thwart any
international and local threat groups that may be undertaken in their nefarious
schemes that would disrupt the activities and endanger the lives of the
delegates to the detriment of national interest," Miranda said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726672
NPAs release ComVal Jail Warden to Davao City mayor
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): NPAs release ComVal Jail Warden to Davao City mayor
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726739
After almost a month, the New People’s Army (NPA)
Comval-North Davao South Agusan Subregional Command today released Compostela
Valley Provincial Rehabilitation Center Jail Warden Jose Melvin Coquilla to
Mayor Rodrigo Duterte around 1:30 p.m in Barangay Casoon in Monkayo, Compostela Valley
Duterte turned over Coquilla to Compostela Valley Vice
Governor Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora
The release was earlier than the 72 hours given by the mayor
for the rebels to release Coquilla. On Saturday afternoon, Duterte demanded the
NPAs to release Coquilla, who was snatched by the NPA rebels from his carwash
near his residence on December 23, 2014. Coquilla was supposed to celebrate his
birthday on Sunday (January 18).
The mayor's demand follows a meeting with the wife of
Coquilla, Lijobeth, who requested Duterte to help in facilitating the release
of her husband. Lijobeth met the mayor on Saturday at the Ateneo de Davao
University after the chief executive forum with students.
Duterte had been facilitating the release of abducted
soldiers or police in the region for many years. In fact, he already jokingly
complained making himself as the “pulot boy” of the NPAs.
In his statement, Duterte said Coquilla can ask for an
investigation from his superiors pertaining to allegations on drugs in order to
be heard. The mayor said Coquilla had admitted that 50 percent of the cases
facing the jail mates are drugs. “Indirectly there are really illegal drugs,”
he said.
On the other hand, Zamora
However, Zamora Zamora
Earlier, the mayor said it is no longer healthy for Coquilla
to be separated from his family.
Duterte said Coquilla’s abduction already took toll on the
lives of wife and children. He said he might be forced to bring Coquilla’s wife
and children to them if the rebels would not heed the call for the jail
warden’s freedom.
“The rebel movement has to choose either they release
Coquilla or I bring his family to them. I hope I have made myself clear,”
Duterte said.
He said the accusations by the rebels against Coquilla
remains to be proven.Duterte said the rebels could have considered Coquilla’s
right to be heard.
He said the right to be heard ought to be inherent in any
organization be it in government, and in private association.
“The right to be heard is a very important right of every
individual,” Duterte said.
On Saturday, Lijobeth had told the mayor she is suffering
from cancer and her husband's abduction is affecting her health. She also said
that their son resigned from his job because of the family's situation.
Ka Aris Francisco, spokesperson of the NPA’s Comval-North
Davao South Agusan Subregional Command had earlier said Coquilla was taken into
custody by the NPA in order to subject him to an investigation to determine his
individual culpability with respect to the complaints lodged against him before
the People's Democratic Government by jail inmates and their families.
Francisco said the complaints against Coquilla include his
willful negligence in the supervision of inmates and his direct and indirect,
overt and covert participation of drug trade and drug use inside the Comval
jail.
However, since almost a month of finding no hard evidence on
the accusation against Coquilla, Duterte said it was better for them to release
the jail warden.
After the release, Coquilla and the family begged off to be
interviewed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726739
Military says Negros Occidental nearing ‘peaceful and ready for further development’ status
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): Military says Negros
Occidental nearing ‘peaceful and ready for further development’ status
Negros Occidental is expected to be declared
as “peaceful and ready for further development” province this year, the
Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade said.
The
province’s fourth district will also be declared as such after the area
remained insurgency-free in more than a decade.
Col.
Jon Aying, commander of 303rd IB, said that although there are about 200 communities in Negros Occidental still affected by
the armed conflict, the
number is negligible.
They
comprise only 3.3 percent of 7,000 communities in the province, he added.
There
are only 200 remaining members of the New People’s Army, which is also
negligible compared to the more than three million residents of Negros Occidental, Aying said.
In Western Visayas, only the provinces of Iloilo and Negros
Occidental have yet to be declared as “peaceful and ready for further
development” by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Aying added that although the NPA is still able to recruit
new members, he believes the Army is dismantling more communities that those
influenced by the NPA.
“We have more surrenderees and we win back people more than
their number,” the Army official said.
Police, military top officials vow to pursue ‘normal operations’ with lifting up of truce
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): Police, military top officials vow to pursue ‘normal operations’ with lifting up of truce
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726671
Top police and military top officials here in the region
said Monday morning that they will continue pursuing the normal operations
mandated to them with the lifting up both of the suspension of police
operations (SOPO) and suspension of military operations (SOMO) here in the
region.
The month-long unilateral suspension of military and police
operations declared on December 19, last year, ends today.
PCSupt. David Y. Ombao, Caraga PNP chief, in an exclusive
interview with the Philippines News Agency right after the Monday flag-raising
rites held at this camp, said that the police will “continue with the normal
police operations such as doing patrol in the provinces, cities and the rest of
the places in the region, anti-criminality campaign, anti-illegal activities
campaign, peace and security efforts, community information, education
outreaches, medical and dental missions,” Ombao said.
According to Ombao, this will include all the necessary
measures and efforts which will ensure the safe release of their three police
personnel who are still in the hands of their captors since their alleged
abduction more than two months ago.
”Until this time, I’m hoping that our friends from the other
side will finally release our personnel soon. I understand that sincerity from
both sides is already there. Let us just open all the peaceful channels,
exhaust all peaceful efforts and to pursue the negotiations for their safe
release,” Ombao said.
Brig. Gen. Gregory M. Cayetano, Brigade Commander of the
401st Brigade who was the guest of honor and speaker of the Monday flag-raising
ceremony, also said during a post-rites separate exclusive interview that the
military will “pursue with the focused military operations to be coupled with
the community organizing for peace and development at the conflict-affected
areas of the region.”
According to the military official, the AFP will continue
working and encouraging those involved in the armed struggle to return to the
fold of the law through their “Balik Loob” Programs that provide livelihood to
those who want to live with the society’s mainstream.
”Together with the PNP, the concerned agencies and other
stakeholders, we will continue to work for peace and development in the region
and to leave a legacy of peace to our next generation,” Cayetano said. “We
still have to face some great challenges ahead but together with the PNP and
other partners, we are determined to pursue and achieve long lasting peace,”
Cayetano continued.
BGen. Cayetano also said that like the PNP, the military
here is also looking forward to the safe release of the three PNP personnel. He
said that they had shared with the agony and the apprehensions and assured that
the military here is doing their best to help resolve the impasse and come up
with positive results.
During the Regional Peace and Order press forum last week
attended by RPOC Chair Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr., 4ID
Commanding Officer MGen. Oscar T. Lactao, 402 Brigade senior officials and
other RPOC members it was mentioned that the negotiations for the release of
the three police personnel is now in the level of the Provincial Management
Crisis Committee of Surigao del Norte.
PO1 Jorie M. Amper of Malimono Municipal Police Station
Malimono, Surigao del Norte, was abducted allegedly by the rebels while in the
performance of his police work in a neighboring village while PO3 Democrito B.
Polvorosa and PO1 Marichel U. Contemplo assigned with the Alegria Municipal
Police Station in the town of Alegria of the said province, were abducted while
on their way to conduct village visitation over a month ago.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726671
IED found in Mandurriao resto bar
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): IED found in Mandurriao resto bar
ILOILO
CITY --
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726818
The waiter of MO2 Resto Bar Randy Frenz happened to stumble
on the suspicious object wrapped in a piece of paper early this morning and was
surprised to discover it was a dangerous stuff.
Also recovered alongside the EID were a cellular phone and
an electrical wiring.
The management of MO2 bar immediately informed the Iloilo
City Police Office’s Explosive and Ordnance Division which proceeded to the
area and took custody of the improvised explosive device for proper disposal.
It was learned that MO2 Resto Bar cater to customers 24
hours.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=726818
Senate urged to pass proposed US-based Office of Veterans Affairs
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): Senate urged to pass proposed US-based Office of Veterans Affairs
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726539
To promote the rights and well-being of Filipino war
veterans, lawmakers are appealing to their Senate counterparts to pass HB 1222
which seeks to establish a US-based Office of Veterans Affairs.
HB 1222, approved on third reading by the House of Representatives
as early as May 19, 2014, mandates the establishment and maintenance of an
Office of Veterans Affairs in the Philippine Embassy in the United States
“Despite the veterans’ receiving compensation for their
service to the country, they have yet to enjoy their full benefits and
privileges from the American government with whom they fought and served to
gain independence and peace,” Reps. Rufus B. Rodriguez and Rep. Maximo B.
Rodriguez, authors of HB 1222, stressed.
They noted that as of June 2007, the Philippine Veterans
Affairs logged 249,987 pensioners, 183,274 were receiving their old age
pension, 16, 995 their disability pension, and 39,718 pensions were released.
“Of those receiving their old age pension, 158,022 receive
their benefits through the bank, while the rest receives theirs through snail
mail,” Rodriguez said, noting that the House approved a similar bill during the
15th Congress but failed to act on it.
The proposed US-based OVA would be mandated to represent,
negotiate and lobby for the rights of the Filipino veterans with the
appropriate US offices or agencies concerned with veterans’ affairs.
The US-based OVA shall be headed by an appointee of the President
of the Philippines
HB 1222 mandates that the office shall be maintained for
five (5) years after its date of establishment or until the Filipino veterans
shall have availed of their legitimate claims, the time of which shall not
exceed another five (5) years.
Funding for the maintenance and operation of the OVA shall
be sourced from the budget of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office and if its
continued operation is necessary, funding shall be included in the annual
General Appropriations Act.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726539
DND allocates Php630.6-M for JCPV Phase 3A acquisition project
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): DND allocates Php630.6-M for JCPV Phase 3A acquisition project
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726545
The Department of National Defense (DND) has allocated
Php630,637,163. 60 for the JCPV Phase 3 acquisition project of the Philippine
Navy (PN).
JCPV is short for the Jacinto Class Patrol Vessels, one of
the most modern surface combatants of the PN.
These ships, three in number, were originally operated by
the Royal Navy in Hongkong.
They were sold to the Philippines
in August 1997 when Great
Britain
The JCPV 3A acquisition project includes restoration and
sustainment of the two 76mm guns installed on the two vessels and 25mm gun
systems aboard the three ships; delivery of brand-new electro-optical fire
control system and sensors for two of the JCPVs; and supply and delivery of
ammunition for the three naval vessels.
Winning bidders must able to deliver these items within 605
calendar days.
Pre-bid conference is scheduled for Jan. 27 while bid
opening is on Feb. 10.
Both will be held at the DND Bidding and Awards Committee
conference room, basement, right wing, DND
Building , Camp
Aguinaldo , Quezon City
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726545
AFP scores NPA's continued detention of three police officers
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): AFP scores NPA's continued detention of three police officers
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday strongly condemned the New People's Army (NPA) for its continued detention of three police officers who were kidnapped in Surigao Del Norte last November.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726557
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday strongly condemned the New People's Army (NPA) for its continued detention of three police officers who were kidnapped in Surigao Del Norte last November.
This statement after the rebels' suspended the release of
the three despite earlier claimed that the captives will be freed as a show of
support to Pope Francis' visit in the country.
"We are saddened that instead of fulfilling their
promise of releasing the victims, the NPA is now engaging in propaganda war by
blaming the AFP of causing the suspension of the release of the policemen.
Obviously, they wanted to drive a wedge between the AFP and the PNP which had
shown an effective collaboration in addressing the social issues in the local
communities that had been exploited by the (rebels) in the past," AFP
public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said.
There is no truth to the allegations that the military has
launched offensive operations against the NPAs in violation to the
government-declared suspension of offensive military operations (SOMO) which
ended today, Jan. 19, he added.
During the period of the truce, soldiers remained in their
respective posts in hinterland villages to carry out peace and development
activities and to defend vital government installations and also peaceful
communities.
"If the (CPP-NPA-NDF) are indeed serious in showing
goodwill and spirit of compromise especially that they have shown interest in
pushing peace negotiations, they can easily free the victims and allow local
officials to fetch them," Cabunoc said.
He added that despite these challenges, "the AFP
remains firm in its commitment to claim the peace in our land and support the
government in pursuing a peaceful resolution to this long-drawn armed conflict
with our fellow Filipinos."
"If the CPP-NPA-NDF want to work with the government in
resolving the issues peacefully, an example of a positive step towards peace is
the unconditional release of the kidnap victims," the AFP public affairs
office chief said.
In case the rebels continue to renege on its promise of
releasing the three kidnap victims, the AFP will do its best to rescue the
hostages after the lifting of the SOMO, Cabunoc said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726557
Rodriguez welcomes support of MNLF-Alonto group to Bangsamoro
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19): Rodriguez welcomes support of MNLF-Alonto group to Bangsamoro
Cagayan de Oro City second district representative and chair of the House of Representatives' Ad Hoc Committee on the Bangsamoro Basic Law Rufus Rodriguez welcomed the full support of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) group led by Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the BBL as its legal iteration.
A statement signed by Alonto and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim expressed a reiteration of MNLF's support to the "full implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro particularly the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and all its annexes as published in the MNLF Declaration of Unity at Lama Mardeka published on March 18, 2014."
Alonto is a founding leader of the MNLF and first vice chairman of the original MNLF Central Committee. According to a news release of the MNLF, Alonto was elected by 35 out of the 39 surviving members of the original Central Committee as their head, and represents one of several groups of the MNLF.
The statement of support of the MNLF-Alonto group comes ahead of a scheduled public hearing of the Ad Hoc Committee on the BBL on January 21 in which MNLF members were invited to attend to ensure that their concerns are heard and serve as inputs to the drafting of an inclusive law.
“We welcome the support of the MNLF-Chairman Alonto group,” Rodriguez said. “It has always been our position that the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law is not only for the MILF, but is for all Bangsamoro, whether they are Muslims, Christians or Lumads, and all other groups and sectors,” he said.
Meanwhile, the statement also cited that both Moro fronts agree to "continue working together to foster strong Unity, Solidarity and Brotherhood as one Bangsamoro people."
Just last year, the MILF and MNLF, under the auspices of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, formally activated the Bangsamoro Cooperation Forum, a mechanism for coordination between the two fronts "towards achieving the aspiration of the Bangsamoro people towards just and lasting peace and peaceful resolution of their problems."
The statement also called on the rest of the Filipino nation to “rally behind the President and Congress… for the immediate passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and the establishment of the Bangsamoro government.” The BBL is expected to be passed by Congress by the first quarter of this year, followed by a plebiscite in the envisioned core territory towards the entrenchment of the Bangsamoro political entity.
Also present during the signing of the statement were members of the MNLF pioneer Top 90 group with their four succeeding batches, and members of the Bangsa Bae Women Medical Corps.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726593
Cagayan de Oro City second district representative and chair of the House of Representatives' Ad Hoc Committee on the Bangsamoro Basic Law Rufus Rodriguez welcomed the full support of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) group led by Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the BBL as its legal iteration.
A statement signed by Alonto and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim expressed a reiteration of MNLF's support to the "full implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro particularly the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and all its annexes as published in the MNLF Declaration of Unity at Lama Mardeka published on March 18, 2014."
Alonto is a founding leader of the MNLF and first vice chairman of the original MNLF Central Committee. According to a news release of the MNLF, Alonto was elected by 35 out of the 39 surviving members of the original Central Committee as their head, and represents one of several groups of the MNLF.
The statement of support of the MNLF-Alonto group comes ahead of a scheduled public hearing of the Ad Hoc Committee on the BBL on January 21 in which MNLF members were invited to attend to ensure that their concerns are heard and serve as inputs to the drafting of an inclusive law.
“We welcome the support of the MNLF-Chairman Alonto group,” Rodriguez said. “It has always been our position that the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law is not only for the MILF, but is for all Bangsamoro, whether they are Muslims, Christians or Lumads, and all other groups and sectors,” he said.
Meanwhile, the statement also cited that both Moro fronts agree to "continue working together to foster strong Unity, Solidarity and Brotherhood as one Bangsamoro people."
Just last year, the MILF and MNLF, under the auspices of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, formally activated the Bangsamoro Cooperation Forum, a mechanism for coordination between the two fronts "towards achieving the aspiration of the Bangsamoro people towards just and lasting peace and peaceful resolution of their problems."
The statement also called on the rest of the Filipino nation to “rally behind the President and Congress… for the immediate passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and the establishment of the Bangsamoro government.” The BBL is expected to be passed by Congress by the first quarter of this year, followed by a plebiscite in the envisioned core territory towards the entrenchment of the Bangsamoro political entity.
Also present during the signing of the statement were members of the MNLF pioneer Top 90 group with their four succeeding batches, and members of the Bangsa Bae Women Medical Corps.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=726593