Saturday, November 21, 2015

NEW EASTMINCOM CHIEF // LTGEN BALADAD Retires, MGEN Guerrero Assumes

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 20): NEW EASTMINCOM CHIEF // LTGEN BALADAD Retires, MGEN Guerrero Assumes



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City- The AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Commander Lt. Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56, after completing his 39 years of faithful and dedicated service to the Armed Forces of the Philippines will retire on November 21, 2015.

Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero will assume as the new Commander of EASTMINCOM. AFP Chief of Staff Hernando DCA Iriberri will preside the change of command and testimonial review with retirement ceremony at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City in the afternoon of the above-mentioned date.

Lt. Gen. Baladad already received numerous awards, plaques and recognitions from both military and civilian sectors for his excellent generalship, leadership and management as Commander of EASTMINCOM. During the change of command ceremony, he will also receive the Philippine Legion of Honor from the President of the Republic of the Philippines. “These are all compliments of what we have done for the betterment of the people we serve; these also highlights the accomplishments of EASTMINCOM. Yes we have done a lot in Eastern Mindanao in order to win the peace and we can always be proud of that. We have accomplished more than the higher headquarters expectation because we have worked hand-in-hand with civilian stakeholders, PNP and local government units”, Lt. Gen. Baladad said.

Maj. Gen. Guerrero is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maharlika” Class of 1984. He is the former Commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division based in Capiz province. Before his assumption as the 3rd Infantry Division Commander, he was the 46th Chief of Staff of the Philippine Army from 01 August 2013 to 06 September 2014.

His other prior assignments  include Senior Military Assistant to the President of the Republic of the Philippines; Deputy to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Philippine Army; Chief of Central Monitoring Station, G2, Philippine Army; Deputy Chief for Training, G3, Philippine Army; Commander, Task Force Lapu-lapu, Presidential Security Group; Commander, Presidential Guard Battalion, Presidential Security Group; Commander, Presidential Escort Battalion, Presidential Security Group; Commander, 61st Infantry Battalion; and Chief of Staff, 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army. He was also the Operations Officer of the Philippine Battalion sent as part of the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/new-eastmincom-chief-ltgen-baladad-retires-mgen-guerrero-assumes/

Joint AFP – PNP Press Statement on Beheading of Malaysian National

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 20): Joint AFP – PNP Press Statement on Beheading of Malaysian National



Quezon City, DWDD–Allow me to share with you some updates in the ongoing investigation relative to the recovery last Tuesday of a severed human head in Jolo, Sulu.

For clarification, there was NO headless body recovered in Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu last Wednesday.

The sketchy information we received earlier from the field had been validated and here’s the general picture so far:
 
·       The severed human head is now in the custody of the AFP Trauma Center at Kampo Heneral Teodulo Bautista in Busbus, Jolo Sulu for preservation and safekeeping.
 
·       Ongoing operations are focused in Indanan for possible recovery of a headless body that is reportedly buried in the area.

Initially SOCO took Buccal Swab of the severed head for possible DNA identification procedure.

NEW LEADERSHIP // Army assigns new ASCOM commander

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 20): NEW LEADERSHIP // Army assigns new ASCOM commander



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila The Philippine Army assigns a seasoned logistician as the new commander of a major unit responsible in providing logistics and other support to all Army units nationwide during a formal military ceremony presided by Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Eduardo M. Año, today.

Maj. Gen. Elmer C. Pabale, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1983 and a native of Calamba, Laguna assumed his new post as the commander of the Army Support Command (ASCOM).
 
He replaces Maj. Gen. Gamaliel S. Cruz (PMA “Sandigan” Class 1982), who is set to compulsory retire from the military service on November 21.
 
Prior to this position, Pabale was the Army Inspector General whose function was to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the Philippine Army major units and offices which includes the performance of various unit commanders and his staff, state of morale and welfare of personnel, and the discipline, law and order existing with the command.
 
Pabale also used to serve as the assistant division commander of the Army’s 7th Infantry Division based at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

The designation of Pabale is part of the Army’s continuing career and leadership development program for its senior officers.
 
Pabale is married to Mrs. Ma. Christina F. Pabale and they are blessed with two children. He is set to retire on February 18, 2018.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/new-leadership-army-assigns-new-ascom-commander/

WARRIOR AND LEADER // 5ID has a New Sergeant Major

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): WARRIOR AND LEADER // 5ID has a New Sergeant Major





Camp Melchor Dela Cruz, Isabela (DWDD) - The 5th Infantry Division now have a new Sergeant Major after the turn- over of command today (November 21) in a simple ceremony here at Camp Melchor Dela Cruz.

Major General Lysander Suerte, the commander of 5th Infantry Division, presided the ceremony which was attended by the officers and enlisted personnel of the command. Master Sergeant Robert Wanawan replaced Chief Master Sergeant Reynaldo Aduca who will be retiring from the service on November 29.

Wanawan is a native of Mt. Province and a seasoned warrior and leader. Prior to being the Division Sergeant Major, he has served as the Sergeant Major of 501st Infantry Brigade.

“As the Division Sergeant Major, Wanawan is responsible in maintaining the high standard of morale, welfare and discipline of all enlisted personnel”, Major General Suerte said. 5DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/warrior-and-leader-5id-has-a-new-sergeant-major/

GALLANTRY IN ACTION // 4ID Welcomes Hero Soldier of Gingoog City

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): GALLANTRY IN ACTION // 4ID Welcomes Hero Soldier of Gingoog City

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — The 4th Infantry Division held a hero’s welcome for Corporal Adones Jess M Lupiba, Hero soldier of Barangay Alagatan, Gingoog City during the flag raising ceremony at Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City at 7:30 o’clock today, November 21, 2015.

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Col Bartolome Vicente O Bacarro, Chief of Staff of 4ID read the message of MGen Oscar T Lactao AFP, Commander 4ID he quoted, “It takes courage to display willingness to put yourself in peril for the sake of your fellowmen. However, it takes more courage to risk and offer your life in exchange of the lives of your fellowmen”.

It can be recall that four months ago on July 11 2015, Cpl Lupiba was held captive by the lawless members of the New People’s Army (NPA). He sacrificed himself in exchange of the freedom of several civilians being used as human shields by the members of NPA. Cpl Lupiba was just an ordinary soldier, but because of his extraordinary character, he now became the hero of the people of Gingoog City.

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Moreover, aside from his application for promotion to next rank, his heroic act is a big factor for the promotion board to advance him from the rank of Private First Class to Corporal. Cpl Lupiba was one of the 1,673 newly promoted soldiers of 4ID. That is why as part of the highlight of the hero’s welcome is the pinning of rank as corporal.
Col Bacarro and Lupiba’s wife Hemmie graced the symbolic donning of rank to Cpl Lupiba.

Finally, Col Bacarro recognized at the end of MGen Lactao’s speech Lupiba’s act of heroism, he said, “You brought pride and honor not only to the entire Diamond Division but also to the Philippine Army as a whole. Let this day be an inspiration. Let us do everything that we can to fulfil our responsibilities to our fellowmen and to our society. Let us proudly show that the sacrifices of our living heroes were not meaningless; let us continue to be committed and dedicated to carry out our pledge to fulfil our responsibilities for our country.”
-oOo-

PRESS STATEMENT OF MGEN OSCAR T LACTAO AFP

Courage is a rare precious commodity. Today, we celebrate and honor the courage of one particular soldier of the 4th Infantry Division, Cpl Adones Jess M  Lupiba.
Ladies and gentlemen, it takes courage to display willingness to put yourself in peril for the sake of your fellowmen. However, it takes more courage to risk and offer your life in exchange of the lives of your fellowmen. This is Cpl Jess Lupiba, our comrade, a hero of the people of Alagatan, Gingoog City; an inspiration to the men and women of the 4thInfantry Diamond Division.  As he, without hesitation without any second thougths gave himself to danger risking his life so that others maybe spared from true danger.

Released from captivity yesterday.  We are fully aware the physical torment, psychological anguish and emotional upheaval he underwent during his captivity, he came back, still armed with the same zeal and passion he exhibited before all of these came to being. Yes, it certainly takes courage that after all he went through, the first official duty he did was to pledge his allegiance and loyalty to the national flag.

And as we pledged our allegiance to our national flag with Cpl Lupiba, we would like to take this opportunity to offer our heartfelt gratitude to his heroism and most of all his courage. You could have ended, you could have looked the other way, or escape for your safety; you could have opted for; yet, you chose to remain steadfast to your sworn duty to defend those who are in danger. On behalf of the proud men and women of 4th infantry division, we would like to express our deepest admiration to your deed. 11 July 2015 will not be earmarked as a day of tragedy to the lives of the people in Brgy. Alagatan. But that day will also be remembered of the day they were saved by Cpl Lupiba and as a day that once more a hero was born.

On the other hand, congratulations on your very well deserved promotion. We have specifically chose this moment to put on your new rank which manifests your worth in the service. You have proven once again that you are worthy of a bigger and greater responsibility.  May this new rank inspire you more in accomplishing your tasks in the future.

To Cpl Lupiba, congratulations once again and thank you. You brought pride and honornot only to the entire Diamond Division but also to the Philippine Army as a whole. To all of us here, let this day be an inspiration. Let us do everything that we can to fulfil our responsibilities to our fellowmen and to our society. Let us proudly show that the sacrifices of our living heroes were not meaningless; let us continue to be committed and dedicated to carry out our pledge to fulfil our responsibilities for our country.

Thank you and good morning to each and everyone. 4DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/gallantry-in-action-4id-welcomes-hero-soldier-of-gingoog-city/

US likely to make another South China Sea patrol before year-end -Navy official

From GMA News (Nov 21): US likely to make another South China Sea patrol before year-end -Navy official

The US Navy will likely carry out another patrol within 12 nautical miles of artificial islands in the South China Sea before the end of the year, a U.S. Navy official said on Friday.

The USS Lassen, a guided missile destroyer, last month sailed close to one of China's man-made islands in the Spratly Islands archipelago to underscore its rights under international law, drawing an angry rebuke from Beijing.

A US defense official said this month the Navy planned two or more patrols a quarter in the region as part of its plan to regularly exercise its rights under international law and remind China and others about its view.

The US Navy official said the next patrol in the Spratly Islands archipelago would likely take place in December.

Two US B-52 bombers also flew near the artificial Chinese islands last week, in advance of President Barack Obama's visit to the region this week to attend Asia-Pacific summits.

Obama on Friday said the disputed region would be a major focus of summit meetings among world leaders this weekend in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which more than $5 trillion of world trade transits every year. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan have rival claims.

On Thursday, Obama demanded China halt land reclamation work that is turning seven reefs into artificial islands. China is building airfields and other facilities on some of them.

In a report published on the Chinese defense ministry's website on Thursday, China's top admiral, Wu Shengli, said his forces have shown "enormous restraint" in the face of US provocations in the South China Sea, while warning they stand ready to respond to repeated breaches of Chinese sovereignty.

Earlier this month, Senator John McCain, the Republican head of the Senate Armed Services Committee called on the Pentagon to clarify publicly the legal intent of last month's patrol.

US officials said the Navy avoided military drills that could have exacerbated tensions with Beijing during the Lassen's October 27 patrol in the Spratly Islands, an approach experts said could reinforce rather than challenge China's sovereignty claims.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/545280/news/world/us-likely-to-make-another-south-china-sea-patrol-before-year-end-navy-official

China calls for direct negotiations on South China Sea disputes

From GMA News (Nov 22): China calls for direct negotiations on South China Sea disputes

KUALA LUMPUR - China's premier has called on Southeast Asian nations to set aside their differences as tensions rise over the disputed South China Sea islands, state news agency Xinhua reported late on Saturday.
 
"In recent years, the South China Sea disputes, which should have been addressed by directly concerned countries through negotiation and talks, have been played up to become a problem concerning the South China Sea's peace and stability and the freedom of navigation," Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said in Kuala Lumpur according to Xinhua.
 
China, which claims almost the entire energy-rich South China Sea, has been transforming reefs into artificial islands in the Spratly archipelago and building airfields and other facilities on some of them. That has prompted concerns in Washington and across the region that Beijing is trying to militarise its claims in the South China Sea.
 
Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have territorial claims in the South China Sea.
 
At a meeting with the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, U.S. President Barack Obama called on countries to stop building artificial islands and militarising their claims in the South China Sea.
 
The United States has sent military ships and war planes by China's artificial islands in recent weeks to assert its "freedom of navigation" in the sea.
 
Premier Li said some countries outside the region are conducting a high-profile intervention.
 
"That is in nobody's interest," Li said. "Only by expanding our common interests and seeking common ground can we narrow our differences," Li added.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/545358/news/world/china-calls-for-direct-negotiations-on-south-china-sea-disputes

Ransom for Sulu hostages lowered – MNLF source

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 22): Ransom for Sulu hostages lowered – MNLF source

FILE - In this Oct. 14, 2015 file photo, Col. Restituto Padilla, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, watches a video purportedly showing for the first time two Canadians, a Norwegian and a Filipino woman who were abducted last month from a southern Philippines resort, following a press conference at Camp Aguinaldo at suburban Quezon city, northeast of Manila, Philippines. Militants from at least four small but violent Muslim insurgent groups in the Philippines pledged support last year to the Islamic State group and its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, mostly in videotaped messages posted on the Internet. Philippine security officials say they have found no clear evidence so far of a direct link and active collaboration between Islamic State extremists and any of the groups: Abu Sayyaf, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement, Rajah Solaiman Movement and the Ansar Khalifa. Islamic State-inspired black flags, however, are visible in a video released this week, purportedly by Abu Sayyaf, of four Western and Filipino hostages kidnapped last month in the southern Philippines. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez, File)

FILE – In this Oct. 14, 2015 file photo, Col. Restituto Padilla, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, watches a video purportedly showing for the first time two Canadians, a Norwegian and a Filipino woman who were abducted last month from a southern Philippines resort, following a press conference at Camp Aguinaldo at suburban Quezon city, northeast of Manila, Philippines.  (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez, File)

The bandit Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) has lowered their ransom demands to P900 million from P1 billion in exchange for the freedom of their three foreign hostages on Sulu Island, according to a senior Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader .

“My sources from the MNLF in Sulu and the military in Zamboanga City told me on Saturday about the reduced ransom demands,” MNLF senior leader said.

“That is the plan of the bandits, seek a lower ransom,” he added.

Citing his friends from the MNLF and the military, source said from their original demands, the bandits led by Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan holding Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall and Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad have reduced this to P300 million each or some US$6.5 million each.

Manila Bulletin was not able to confirm this with other sources; but the senior MNLF leader has been a reliable source of information. He lives in Jolo, Sulu, and Zamboanga City.

Sawadjaan is also holding hostage Filipino Marites Flor, but has not asked ransom for freedom.

The source opined that Flor’s freedom depends on the three foreigners paying the kidnappers.

A combined groups of Abu Sayyaf elements snatched the four on September 21 on the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, less than an hour by boat from Davao City.

http://www.mb.com.ph/ransom-for-sulu-hostages-lowered-mnlf-source/

Baladad retires; Guerrero takes over as Eastmincom chief

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 21): Baladad retires; Guerrero takes over as Eastmincom chief

After completing his 39 years of service, Lt. General Aurelio Baladad has retired and handed over the leadership of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) to Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero during turnover rites at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan here yesterday.

Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri witnessed the turnover after Baladad reached  the  mandatory retirement age of 56 in a career where he leaves as one of the most decorated military personnel in the country.
Baladad already received numerous awards, plaques and recognitions from both military and civilian sectors for his excellent leadership and management as Commander of Eastmincom.

Baladad also received the Philippine Legion of Honor from the President of the Republic of the Philippines during the turn-over ceremony.

In a statement sent by the information office of Eastmincom to the media here, Baladad said: “These are all compliments of what we have done for the betterment of the people we serve; these also highlight the accomplishments of Eastmincom. Yes we have done a lot in Eastern Mindanao in order to win the peace and we can always be proud of that. We have accomplished more than the higher headquarters expectation because we have worked hand-in-hand with civilian stakeholders, the PNP and local government units.”

Guerrero is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maharlika” Class of 1984.

Guerrero is the former Commander of the Third Infantry Division based in Capiz province and served as the 46th Chief of Staff of the Philippine Army.

His other prior assignments  included Senior Military Assistant to the President of the Republic of the Philippines; Deputy to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence of the Philippine Army; Chief of Central Monitoring Station, G2, Philippine Army; Deputy Chief for Training, G3, Philippine Army; and Commander, Task Force Lapu-Lapu of the Presidential Security Group.

http://www.mb.com.ph/baladad-retires-guerrero-takes-over-as-eastmincom-chief/

Verdict on Pemberton reset December 1

From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 21): Verdict on Pemberton reset December 1

With speculations running high that verdict on US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton will fall on the 24th of this month, the founding anniversary of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Deputy City Prosecutor Misael Ladaga said it has already been reset for December 1.

Ladaga said the promulgation of the murder case of transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude was rescheduled after the defense filed a motion requesting its postponement.

The motion was granted by Judge Roline Ginez-Jabalde of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 74.

The Laude family’s legal counsel Atty. Virgie Suarez said the defense panel was not available on the earlier date and requested a much later date.

Defense lawyer, Atty. Rowena Garcia-Flores, confirmed there was a motion for postponement because she would be in Italy while co-defense lawyer, Atty. Filemon Ray Javier, would be out of town on the original date of promulgation.

Suarez said that she is giving them the benefit of doubt, but was perplexed as to why they rescheduled the verdict on a case of this magnitude.

http://www.mb.com.ph/verdict-on-pemberton-reset-december-1/

Returning ISIS militants 'a growing menace to S-E Asia'

From the Straits Times (Nov 22): Returning ISIS militants 'a growing menace to S-E Asia'

They could plan attacks similar to those in Paris in this region, say security experts

Police officers standing guard near the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Manila last Thursday. Terror plots in South-east Asia were believed to have been in motion even before the incidents in Paris or Bamako in Mali.

Police officers standing guard near the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Manila last Thursday. Terror plots in South-east Asia were believed to have been in motion even before the incidents in Paris or Bamako in Mali.PHOTO: BLOOMBERG

Afief Abdul Madjid was given the cellphone number of a man in Turkey, whom he had never met, named Kholid.

"Call Kholid once you arrive in Turkey. He will take you across to Syria and to ISIS," a local fixer for the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) militant group told Afief.

That was just over two years ago in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Afief, then a cleric, and a friend named Agung indeed made their way to Turkey, where they linked up with Kholid in Hatay province near the Syrian border.

From Hatay, the two Indonesians were smuggled across to Syria and taken to an ISIS fighters' training camp in Ladzikiyah, where they learnt, among other things, how to handle weapons.

Counter-terrorism hotline for public
  • Members of the public can play their part by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activity, including suspicious online activity, to the authorities.
  • Similarly, if a person knows of someone who is radicalised and may pose a security threat, he should alert the authorities.
  • The public can contact the police on 999, or the Inter-nal Security Department Counter-Terrorism Centre on 1800-2626-473 (1800-2626- ISD).
After completing the training in January last year, Agung stayed on to fight in Syria, while Afief returned to Indonesia, where he promptly visited Abu Bakar Bashir, the spiritual leader of the Jemaah Islamiah (JI) terror group, in prison.

Afief was arrested shortly after in West Java, and has since been jailed for four years. His ISIS fixer, said to be a small-town doctor in Yogyakarta, however, remains at large and possibly free to send more ISIS aspirants into the fray.

Afief's story is not an uncommon narrative among extremists who travel to conflict zones overseas to receive training from groups like ISIS or Al-Qaeda, and then return to plot or support terror activities in their homeland.

Similar reports have been recorded by security and intelligence agencies throughout South-east Asia, from as far back as the 1980s, after the Soviet-Afghan war.

At the time, sympathisers from South-east Asia who had left home to fight alongside the mujahideen against the Soviets in Afghanistan or Pakistan returned and set up militant groups like JI.



JI, which was responsible for the Bali bombings that killed 202 people in 2002, ran a wide network of terrorist cells in the region at its prime, including one in Singapore led by Mas Selamat Kastari, who is now in custody.

A wave of arrests, however, largely neutralised the group in the years following the Sept 11, 2001, attacks in the United States. But now, ISIS militants returning home - either deported by the Turkish authorities or travelling undetected across borders - may spark violence reminiscent of the JI threat of old.

They could possibly plan attacks similar to those that happened in Paris in this part of the world, said security experts and analysts.

Terror plots in this region, however, are believed to have been in motion even before the incidents in Paris or Bamako in Mali - possibly with ISIS-trained fighters.

Various sources have told The Sunday Times that security alert levels in South-east Asian countries had been raised even before the Paris attacks, amid chatter of potential strikes by ISIS or its affiliates in the region.

Security measures were also ramped up further in Manila - which hosted the two-day Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit that ended last Thursday - and Kuala Lumpur, where the Asean and East Asia summits are being held. This, as the subject of terrorism hogged the agenda during the regional meetings.

A leaked memo issued by Malaysian police last Monday also revealed that the Philippine militant group Abu Sayyaf and ISIS had deployed 10 suicide bombers in Kuala Lumpur and eight in Sabah who "underwent military training in Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq".

Indonesia's National Counter- Terrorism Agency (BNPT) chief Saud Usman Nasution warned that his countrymen fighting for ISIS could return and supply training, funds and organisational skills to local militant groups.

The BNPT said 162 Indonesians have been deported from Turkey so far. All have been released because there are no laws that allow for preventive detention in Indonesia, even though some had intended to join ISIS, but 46 among them who are men of "fighting age" remained under surveillance by the counter- terrorism forces.

The threat from splinter groups of Middle Eastern terrorist organisations in the region is very real, said experts, citing intelligence pointing to plans by militants in the southern Philippines to form an ISIS faction, by bringing together terror groups such as JI and Abu Sayyaf, to launch operations in South-east Asia.

Already, as many as 30 militant elements from Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines are believed to have pledged allegiance to ISIS in the past year - evidence of the group's growing influence in the region.

Latest estimates from security agencies in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines show at least 900 from all four countries have travelled to join ISIS in Syria.

The largest number, about 700 of them, are from Indonesia, home to the world's largest Muslim population, while Malaysia and the Philippines each has about 100 citizens suspected to have made the journey. By comparison, France, in the aftermath of the siege on Paris which saw 130 killed, estimates that 400 of its citizens have done the same.

The sheer number of people coming from the three Asean countries has led to the formation within ISIS of a South-east Asian unit called the Katibah Nusantara (KN), which is led by former JI member Bahrum Syah.

Associate research fellow V. Arianti and senior analyst Jasminder Singh from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) said several KN fighters have aided terrorist groups in Indonesia.

"More terrorist cells in Indonesia might gain financial and logistical assistance from their comrades in Syria," they said in a study out last week.

"The growing links between Indonesian extremists and ISIS might give rise to more variation of targets for terrorists... Additionally, foreign embassies might once again become terrorist targets."

A former case officer with the Central Intelligence Agency of the US, Mr Patrick Skinner, said the spectre of direct command and control - in terms of ISIS' reach - is worrisome.

"There are 30,000 foreign fighters who have gone to fight for the Islamic State; even a small percentage of those able to return, such as several of the Paris attackers,
represents a clear and present danger," said the director of special projects at New York-based security consulting firm The Soufan Group.

He added that it is much harder, from a counter-terrorism perspective, to disrupt ill-formed cells of local family members and friends than it is to detect and disrupt plots that travel along traditional centralised terror nodes of command and control.

"Small yet effective terror cells that the group has hardened and shaped - but only loosely directed - represent a true counter-terrorism nightmare," said Mr Skinner.

Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs said that although there is no information of a specific terrorist threat to Singapore at present, the terrorism threat remains persistent.
"An attack can take different forms, including 'lone wolf' terrorist attacks which are difficult to detect," a spokesman said yesterday.

"As seen in the experiences of other countries, an attack could still occur even with heightened security."

http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/returning-isis-militants-a-growing-menace-to-s-e-asia

Mindef Mulls More Sea Basings In Sabah Waters - Johari

From the Malaysian Digest (Nov 22): Mindef Mulls More Sea Basings In Sabah Waters - Johari

The Defence Ministry (Mindef) will consider adding more sea basings in the East Coast of Sabah to tighten control in the waters there following the killing of a Malaysian kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf recently.

Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Mohd Johari Baharum said at the moment there are two sea basings operating in Sabah and the ministry will increase the number of basings after suitable locations have been identified.
 
The concept of sea basing, he said in the waters off east Sabah is the first of its kind in the world to combat cross-border crimes.
 
The new initiative uses an old oil rig as forward base to strengthen the security in the east coast of Sabah.
 
Two sea basings in operation since May are the Tun Sharifah Rodziah Base in the waters of Semporna which is a static platform on a used oil rig while the Tun Azizan sea basing deploys a used cargo ship.
 
"The sea basings are equipped with radar system, to help intercept criminals faster than from land position," he told reporters after a soft launch of UMNO President's Cup here today.
 
Even though, the government had carried out the initiative to reduce crimes, Johari however did not rule out the involvement of stooges in the kidnap of Bernard Then, based on the way Bernard was kidnapped.
 
"There are insiders we are not aware of as the kidnappers moved straight to Bernard's table which they have probably been observing," he said.
 
Bernard Then, 39, an electrical engineer from Sarawak was beheaded at about 4 pm on Wednesday at an Abu Sayyaf stronghold in Jolo island, in Sulu Province, about 1,400km south of Manila.
 
Then and a woman, Thien Nyuk Fun, 50, were kidnapped by four armed men who raided the Ocean King restaurant in Sandakan at 7.45 pm on May 14.
 

Sabah security under scrutiny

From the Malay Mail Online (Nov 21): Sabah security under scrutiny

.
Over the last 20 years, the popularity of Sabah has risen tremendously, as people sought newer places to spend their vacations.

The many islands situated along the east coast of the state is known for its clear waters, and the abundance of coral reefs and marine life makes it a favourite place for divers and those who want a peaceful vacation by the beach.

Sabah is also known as the Land Below the Wind, because of its closeness to the typhoon region of the Philippines.

However, its fame is slowly fading, especially in the last two years following undesired incidents that have caused visitors to shun the place.

The series of unfortunate events started with the Sulu incursion in Feb 2013, when the self-proclaimed Sulu Sultan Jamaluddin Kiram III sought to “reclaim” Sabah as part of his ancestral homeland, sending 200 of his “Royal Sulu Army” militants into Lahad Datu.

The armed intruders, led by Jamaluddin’s brother Agbimuddin, barged into the Sabah village of Tanduao to press his claim on the state.

The group initially negotiated with security forces. But after the group refused to lay down their arms and security forces moved in against them, deadly clashes ensued.
Eight police officers and two soldiers were killed in the conflict. Dozens of militants also died.

On March 7, 2013, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced the establishment of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) to monitor maritime security and guard entry points, the shoreline and the sea front, including the islands.

It was also acknowledged that Islands off Sabah are vulnerable to kidnapping for ransom incidents.

Eastern Sabah has a long coastline of 1,777km with 400 over islands, many of which are inhabited.

Just when things were getting back to normal, the coast of Sabah was struck by a series of kidnapping cases.

Nov 13, 2013 — Taiwanese tourist Evelyn Chang was kidnapped while on a vacation in a villa on the resort island of Pom Pom. Chang’s 57-year-old husband, Hsu Li-min was shot and killed during the armed attack.  About a month later, Chang was found by Philippine marines at a village near Talipao, a town on the remote island of Jolo where Abu Sayyaf Islamic fighters are known to operate.

April 2, 2014 — Chinese tourist Gao Huayun and resort staff Marcy Dayawan, 40, were kidnapped at the Singamata Adventures Reef and Resort in Semporna. On May 30, 2014, two Malaysian officers were sent to the southern Philippine island of Jolo to escort the duo back. Gao returned to Shanghai from Kuala Lumpur the next day.

May 2014 — Fish farm manager, Yang Zai Lin, was kidnapped by armed men in Pulau Baik, near Lahad Datu, Sabah. He was held for nine weeks. Malaysian negotiators subsequently picked him up from Jolo island. Yang returned to China after the ordeal.

June 16, 2014 — Fish farm operator Chan Sai Chuin, 32, was abducted by Abu Sayyaf militants from Sabah’s east coast. On December 9 the same year, he was rescued by police from a hut in the jungles of Jolo in the southern Philippines.

July 12, 2014 — Const Zakiah Aleip, 26, was kidnapped from Mabul Water Bungalows Resort in Semporna by eight Abu Sayyaf militants while his colleague, Cpl Abdul Rajah Jamuan, 32, was shot dead during the incident. Zakiah was released by his kidnappers on March 6.

May 15, 2015 — Thien Nyuk Fun, 48, and Bernard Then Ted Fen, 36, were kidnapped from a seaside seafood restaurant in Sandakan. The duo were kidnapped by four armed gunmen believed to be from the Muktadil brothers’ gang.

http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/sabah-security-under-scrutiny

Police strongly deny claims Abu Sayyaf targeting Kota Kinabalu

From The Star Online (Nov 21): Police strongly deny claims Abu Sayyaf targeting Kota Kinabalu



KOTA KINABALU: Police have denied claims circulating on social media that eight Abu Sayyaf suicide bombers were targeting shopping complexes in the city.

"We strongly deny social media claims Abu Sayyaf suicide bombers were targeting various locations in Kota Kinabalu City in particular and Sabah in general,'' Kota Kinabalu City police chief Asst Comm M. Chandra (pic) said Saturday.

He said the viral messages on Facebook and WhatsApp among other social media platforms were creating uneasiness and fear among the people.

Chandra said that firm action would be taken against irresponsible parties spreading such rumours.
He said police were investigating the case under criminal intimidation and also under the Communication and Multimedia Act among other laws against those involved in spreading the false information that creates public fear.

"We are constantly on the alert to ensure public safety,'' Chandra reassured.

The viral social media message stemmed from what was said to be information sent to its police officers on the ground, saying Abu Sayyaf were planting eight suicide bombers in Kota Kinabalu and 10 in Kuala Lumpur.

http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2015/11/21/Cops-deny-aabu-sayyaf-targets/

Action against those spreading rumours on Abu Sayyaf suicide bombers: Police

From the New Straits Times (Nov 21): Action against those spreading rumours on Abu Sayyaf suicide bombers: Police 

KOTA KINABALU: Police here warned the people from spreading rumours about suicide bombers being placed by the Abu Sayyaf group in various locations across the city.

City Police chief Assistant Commissioner M Chandra said action will be taken against those who post such rumours to spread fear in the social media such as Facebook and chat application Whatsapp.

"Public safety is our priority," he stressed adding action can be taken under the Penal Code and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

Noy: Asean can’t let any country claim entire sea

From the Philippine Star (Nov 22): Noy: Asean can’t let any country claim entire sea

 

(KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia) President Benigno S. Aquino III link arms with Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong,Kingdom of Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha,People's Republic of China Premier Li Keqiang,Republic of India Prime Minister Narendra Modi,Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak,Lao People’s Democratic Republic Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong,Brunei Darussalam His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Kingdom of Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen,Republic of Indonesia President Joko Widodo,Kingdom of Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen,Republic of the Union of Myanmar President Thein Sein for a group photo session before the start of the 13th ASEAN–India Summit at the Conference Hall 1 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Saturday (November 21, 2015) at the sidelines of the 27th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. ASEAN-India dialogue relations have grown rapidly from a sectoral dialogue partnership in 1992 to a full dialogue partnership in December 1995. The relationship was further elevated with the convening of the ASEAN-India Summit in 2002 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Since then the ASEAN-India Summit has been held annually. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must not allow any country – “no matter how powerful” – to claim an entire sea as its own and use force and intimidation to send its message across, President Aquino told a gathering of regional leaders yesterday.

Aquino delivered the message in a speech at the ASEAN-China summit here, in the presence of Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang.

He said China should stop its massive land reclamation and other activities in the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea and called on the Asian power to use might in fostering unity and progress and not in stirring up tension in the region. The Chinese have built airfields and other military facilities on reclaimed lands in the West Philippine Sea.

“We have not resolved, even amongst ASEAN members, the competing claims, especially among the Spratlys. These improvements further complicate and increase the difficulty of coming to compromises that will be necessary to prevent further tension from rising,” Aquino said.

He cited the importance of a rules-based approach in settling maritime disputes, as he noted the case filed by Manila against Beijing before an international arbitral tribunal based in The Hague.

In filing a case against China with the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the Philippines seeks to clarify once and for all its maritime entitlements in the disputed seas.

Aquino reminded regional leaders that arbitration had worked in the case of India versus Bangladesh.

Aquino said that while rival claimants should continue to work for a code of conduct in the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea, they should not wait for its completion to ensure and keep peace and stability in the region.

“At this point when we are trying to manage issues, does not conducting massive reclamation and building of structures in contested waters make our collective task harder? We believe it does. Features that were once of limited use now potentially have a lot of use in so many different areas; conceivably, such a situation makes the give-and-take more difficult for parties involved, making a previously complex issue even more complex,” Aquino said.

“None of us benefits in the long run; therefore, such actions should be stopped. This, at the very least, could return the issue to more manageable levels,” the President said.

Aquino said China must take the lead in pushing for mechanisms that would ensure stability and peaceful rise of the whole region.

A draft document showed the Philippines would like ASEAN to welcome the decision of the arbitral tribunal to assume jurisdiction over its case against China, stressing the importance of resolving disputes through peaceful means, in accordance with international law including 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

“China’s economy is larger than that of the entire ASEAN; its population is larger than that of all ASEAN nations combined. Any uncertainty in the region affects more of their people. Is it not therefore reasonable to expect China to take the lead in pushing for mechanisms that ensure stability, so that a peaceful rise may truly be achieved, not only by China, but the entire region?” Aquino argued.

“Likewise, all of our cultures tell us of the value of respecting elders; China claims to be among the oldest civilizations. We therefore hope that it sets an example for the rest of the region and take the lead in promoting harmony among neighbors,” Aquino said.

Uncertainty stalls growth

Aquino emphasized that increasing tensions and uncertainty were factors that would hamper momentum towards collective prosperity.

“The conclusion of a code of conduct (in) the South China Sea would be a fitting symbol of the maturing relationship between ASEAN and China,” the President said.

“It has been 13 years since the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea forged our collective commitment to address disputes peacefully and with good will. We should not wait any longer to establish the Code of Conduct and reinforce, without ambiguity or reservation, our political will with respect to the issue,” Aquino said.

In his speech delivered during the plenary session of the ASEAN members, Aquino told fellow leaders that the region’s stability and prosperity were under threat “by unilateral actions such as the massive reclamation and building of structures on features in the Spratly islands.” He said such alarming developments have urgent and far-reaching implications in the region and the international community.

The President emphasized the Philippines has always adhered to the rule of law, and that its decision to resort to arbitration reflected its belief “that it is a transparent, friendly, durable and peaceful dispute settlement mechanism that can bring stability to the region.”

“We welcome the arbitral tribunal’s decision on jurisdiction, and look forward to the next round of hearings, scheduled for next week at The Hague,” Aquino said.

“The Philippines remains committed to pursuing arbitration to its final conclusion, and will abide by its decisions,” he pointed out.

The President repeated his message during the ASEAN Plus Three (China, Japan and South Korea) Summit, the ASEAN-India Summit and the ASEAN-US Summit to press for freedom of navigation and overflight.

The President, during the ASEAN-India Summit, also expressed appreciation for India’s opposition “to the threat or use of force, as well as its affirmation of the importance of safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the freedom of navigation and overflight, particularly in disputed areas” in the South China Sea.

He said India was supportive of the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the UNCLOS, as it had already shown determination to settle disputes by peaceful means.

“Its acceptance of the decision on their Bay of Bengal maritime boundary case with Bangladesh shows that arbitration is not a hostile act but is, in fact, a conciliatory move mutually beneficial not only to direct stakeholders, but also to the entire global community,” Aquino said.

“Through efforts like this, we underscore the paramount importance of the rule of law, which consequently fosters multilateral relationships guided by mutual respect and transparent and honest dialogue,” he said.

The President said the tribunal clearly stated that its decision was legally-binding “and as a responsible member of the community of nations, the Philippines is committed to following India’s fine example in abiding by the decision of the tribunal.”

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/11/22/1524549/noy-asean-cant-let-any-country-claim-entire-sea

Militants, hit out at govt ‘overkill’

From The Standard (Nov 22): Militants, hit out at govt ‘overkill’

Militant labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno on Saturday condemned the suppression of protests during  the recent Asia- Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Manila, saying the Aquino administration defended those responsible for the country’s poverty and the suffering of workers and the poor.

The group said from Nov. 16 to 19, excessive force was used by police and military men, who  threatened militant  leaders and  demonstrators with lawsuits.

“Instead of respecting the Filipino workers’ and people’s right to assert that their demands be heard, the Aquino government responded with an overkill amount of force. It clearly sided with big capitalists and powerful governments against Filipinos,” said Jerome Adonis, KMU secretary-general.

He said eight activists from the labor sector were seriously hurt in the protest last Thursday along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue in Pasay City, against which the police used truncheons.

Among those injured were Steve Ranjo and Genero Paredog, both members of the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) and Bironico Pardillo, Nilo Juayang, Sonny Aguinaldo, and Allan Bacara, all employees of Golden Fortune Techno Built Inc.    

“We condemn the Aquino government and the PNP for their use of violence against protestors. We are studying the possibility of filing administrative charges against government and police officials involved before the Ombudsman,” said Adonis.

The group also condemned the PNP’s use of a loud speaker which played dance music to try to counter the sound coming from last Thursday’s protest and  to disrupt rally program.

Four police officers were also hurt after the law enforcers engaged in a scuffle with the militant groups on that day. Joel Zurbano

The violent scuffle ensued when the protesters tried to enter the vicinity of Philippine International Convention Center, the official venue of the Apec meetings.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan spokesperson Teddy Casiño also condemned the police’s action against the protesters.

“Once again, police have shown contempt for the people’s right to peaceful assembly and free speech. Not only did they prevent protesters from getting close to the Apec venue, which is the target of their message, but they also played loud music to drown out the message of truth and struggle against Apec,” he said.

PNP spokesman Wilben Mayor said the huge number of security forces deployed for the event  was  necessary and not an overkill. He added the preparation was  intended to ensure the safety and security of delegates.

Mayor also said the police and military  adopted  maximum tolerance but they were considering filing necessary charges against the demonstrators who violated the laws.

“Let me reiterate our unequivocal position that any public assembly outside of the designated freedom parks is deemed illegal and will be addressed accordingly,” Mayor said. “The PNP fully respects the right of citizens peaceably to assemble, and express their sentiments as guaranteed under our democratic system.”

http://manilastandardtoday.com/news/-main-stories/192524/militants-hit-out-at-govt-overkill-.html

‘Steel warrior’ Westmincom’s new commander (photo/bio data)

From The Standard (Nov 22): ‘Steel warrior’ Westmincom’s new commander



     Major General Mayoralgo dela Cruz
 
President Benigno Aquino has appointed Major General Mayoralgo dela Cruz, a battle-tested Mindanao veteran, as the new commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

Dela Cruz, a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Matikas” Class 1983, will replace Lieutenant General Rustico Guerrero (PMA “Dimalupig” Class ’81) who will bow out of  service for reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Dela Cruz’s promotion as Westmincom commander was a “walk in the park” because of his extensive familiarity in Mindanao before he was elevated commander of the Army’s Mechanized Infantry Division.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is awarding the Legion of Honor to Guerrero. His leadership at Westmincom, however, was  questioned when his command just watched  in the sidelines as Moro rebels and criminals clashed with  44 members of the police’s Special Action Force  in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

The SAF men were in a mission to arrest international terrorist Malaysian national Zulkifli Abdhir alias Marwan when ambushed by hundreds of armed men from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front,  Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, and other armed groups in a day-long firefight.

A native of Bocaue, Bulacan, Dela Cruz was the first brigade commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade and served as battalion commander in two different battalions under the Philippine Army.

His military experience  includes Scout Ranger Course, Basic Airborne Course, Armor Officer Course, Military Intelligence Officer Course, Command and General Staff Course, Regimental Officer Advance Course in Australia, Dynamics of International Terrorism Course at US Air Force Special Operations School in Florida, USA, Regional Defense Counter-terrorism fellowship program at the National Defense University, Washington DC, USA, 1st Asia Pacific Program for Senior National Security Officers at Rajaratnam of International Studies in Singapore and International counter-terrorism Fellows Bangkok Symposium at the National Defense University, Thailand.

Dela Cruz is holder of awards and recognitions such as Distinguished Service Stars, 6 Bronze Cross Medals, 28 Military Merit Medals with anahaw and spearhead devices, 9 Military Civic Action Medals, Sagisag ng Ulirang Kawal, Gawad sa Kaunlaran, Anti-Dissidence Campaign Medals and Ribbons, Luzon and Mindanao-Sulu Campaign Medal and Ribbons, Long Service Medals, 5 Military Commendation Medals and numerous military commendation medals, plaques of recognition and letters of commendation.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/news/-provinces/192521/-steel-warrior-westmincom-s-new-commander.html

Rebels attack 2 firms land in Rizal

From The Standard (Nov 22): Rebels attack 2 firms land in Rizal

COMMUNIST guerrillas simultaneously attacked the properties of Ayala Land and Arce Dairy Products in Rodriguez, Rizal Thursday and seized 14 firearms from the security personnel of the two companies, the National Democratic Front announced Saturday.

In a statement posted on its website, the NDF quoted a certain Macario Liwanag, purportedly the spokesperson of the New People’s Army’s Narciso Antazo Aramil Command, as saying the guerrillas attacked the companies’ offices and security detachments in Barangay Macabud at 5 p.m. Thursday.

Aside from nine rifles and four pistols seized from the security personnel, the rebels also seized ammunition, radio sets, bulletproof vests, combat boots and military packs, Liwanag said in the statement.

The rebels staged the raid purportedly because the two companies were involved in widespread land-grabbing from farmers who are intimidated and forcibly evicted from the land that were allegedly seized by the two companies.

“Through intimidation and deceit, Selecta Farm seized 45 hectares of land while Ayala Land amassed 76 hectares. They continue to expand their land to the detriment of the farmers and citizens of the area through paid and armed goons,” Liwanag said in the statement.

The two companies were able to control 131 hectares of land which were made part of various maneuvers meant to exclude the property from the land reform program, the NPA said.

“Despite the farmers’ demand that the land be distributed to them under the land reform program, government agencies, like the Department of Agrarian Reform, the town government of Rodriguez and the provincial government of Rizal, played deaf to their pleas,” the NPA said.

“Worst was the maneuver of the local government of Rodriguez which reclassified Barangay Macabun, which was previously and wholly classified as agricultural land, into industrial and commercial land so that it will not be included in the land reform program.

“This village remains without power, without a clear water distribution system and rich only in decrepit roads although it is quite near Metro Manila,” the NPA said.

“Because the citizens of Barangay Macabud and the citizens of Montalban, Rizal cannot hope in their government agencies, they brought the matter before the democratic government of the people,” the statement read. “Because of this, the NPA was obliged to act and address the concerns of the citizens.”

The NPA said Arce Dairy Products (formerly known as Selecta Farms) is owned by the family of Don Mauro Arce, a partner of [industrialist] Jose Concepcion. Ayala Land, on the other hand, is known to be owned by the Zobel de Ayala family.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/news/-main-stories/top-stories/192531/rebels-attack-2-firms-land-in-rizal.html

NPA releases prisoner of war in Misamis Oriental

From Rappler (Nov 21): NPA releases prisoner of war in Misamis Oriental

Before his release, Corporal Adonis Lupiba spent 132 days as a prisoner of war. The New People's Army blames the army's rescue efforts for his delayed release.

RELEASED. The New People's Army releases Corporal Adonis Lupiba, a prisoner of war. Screen grab from hostage video

RELEASED. The New People's Army releases Corporal Adonis Lupiba, a prisoner of war. Screen grab from hostage video

The New People's Army (NPA) on Friday afternoon, November 20, released Corporal Adonis Lupiba – a prisoner of war (POW) – to 3rd party facilitators in Barangay Kaulayanan, Sugbongcogon town.

The facilitators were led by Iglesia Filipina Independente Bishop Felixberto Calang and Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Emano.

Lupiba was captured by the NPA in Barangay Alatagan, Gingoog City on July 11 after the NPA attacked the village while the army was helping the village develop its water system.

According to residents of the village, Lupiba did not fire back at the NPA since there were civilians near the basketball court. The attack lasted for 20 minutes and killed one corporal.

According to Cesar Renerio, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front-North Central Mindanao, the release of Lupiba came after Luis Jalandoni, chairperson of the NDF, signed Lupiba's release papers.

Lupiba spent 132 days as a POW and the NPA blamed the army's rescue efforts for the delay of Lupiba's release.

In an e-mail, Renerio said that the NDF and the Local Crisis Committee negotiated to secure the release of Lupiba.

Lupiba arrived at the Camp Edilberto Evangelista around 7 pm Friday and was brought directly to the station hospital for a medical check-up and physical evaluation.

Heroism

Captain Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the 4th ID, said that Lupiba – considered as the hero of Alatagan for his bravery and actions that prevented civilian casualties – will be accorded a hero's welcome.

"As recognition for his distinct act of heroism, the 4th Infantry Division will give a hero's welcome followed by the ceremonial pinning of rank insignia as Corporal," Martinez said.

Colonel Jesse Alvarez, commanding officer of the 403rd Infantry Brigade which Lupiba belongs to, was grateful for the safe release of Lupiba.

Major General Oscar Lactao, commander of 4th Infantry Division, lauded Lupiba for his bravery and act of heroism.

"I congratulate Corporal Lupiba for saving the people of Alagatan. For the people in Northern Mindanao, this is the kind of soldier who is serving you. Human rights, international humanitarian laws, and the rule of law are deeply ingrained in each soldier. Likewise, we are ready to protect you just to ensure that no threat would disrupt your peaceful communities," Lactao said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/113541-npa-releases-prisoner-war-misamis-oriental

Key Abu Sayyaf member nabbed in Zamboanga City (photo)

From Rappler (Nov 21): Key Abu Sayyaf member nabbed in Zamboanga City (photo)

The arrested Abu Sayyaf member has been wanted since 2013 and is accused of murder and frustrated murder

NABBED IN ZAMBOANGA CITY. Mhadie Umangkat Sahirin, also known as Madi, is arrested in Zamboanga City after having been wanted by authorities since 2013.

NABBED IN ZAMBOANGA CITY. Mhadie Umangkat Sahirin, also known as Madi, is arrested in Zamboanga City after having been wanted by authorities since 2013.

Government troops on Saturday, November 21, arrested an alleged key member of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Zamboanga City.

Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police jointly arrested Mhadie Umangkat Sahirin, also known as Madi, an Auxiliary Threat Group (ATG) leader, in Tubungan village in Zamboanga City.
 
Madi was arrested around 11:40 am on Saturday by members of Joint Task Group Basilan, Joint Task Group Zamboanga, the Basilan Provincial Police Office, and Regional Police Safety Battalion 9.
 
Government troops tracked Madi down while he was walking along the road in Tubungan.
 
Madi has been wanted since 2013 for the alleged murder of civilians and frustrated murder of soldiers in Upper Cabengbeng village, Sumisip, Basilan.
 
Madi is said to be a leader of lawless elements based in Sapah Bulak, Sumisip, Basilan, with the stregth of more or less 20 followers.
 
Madi is also alleged to have once participated in the ambush of government forces along Basilan Circumferential Road using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
 
He was also supposedly behind a series of carnappings, IED bombings, and the burning of government construction equipment in the province.
 

PH military confirms custody of Malaysian hostage's head

From Rappler (Nov 21): PH military confirms custody of Malaysian hostage's head

At the same time, the search for the rest of the victim’s remains continues in Sulu, military officials say

MILITARY CUSTODY. Western Mindanao Command Lieutenant General Rustico Guerrero says the Philippine military has taken custody of a decapitated Malaysian hostage's head. File photo by Mark Cristino

MILITARY CUSTODY. Western Mindanao Command Lieutenant General Rustico Guerrero says the Philippine military has taken custody of a decapitated Malaysian hostage's head. File photo by Mark Cristino

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday, November 21, confirmed that it has in its custody the decapitated head of a Malaysian hostage in the Philippines.

At the same time, the search for the rest of the victim’s remains continues in Sulu, Western Mindanao Command outgoing commander Lieutenant General Rustico Guerrero said.
 
The Abu Sayyaf beheaded the male Malaysian hostage around 4 pm on Tuesday, November 17, Rappler sources said.
 
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak identified the hostage as Berhard Then.
Najib on Saturday condemned the beheading of Then in the Philippines.
 
“We are ever vigilant against a threat that is very real in our region. Local militants and groups such as Abu Sayyaf have sworn allegiance to the so-called Islamic State. It was they who cruelly murdered our countryman Bernard Then on Tuesday,” Najib said at the opening ceremony of the 27th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Malaysia.
 
He was kidnapped nearly 6 months ago from a restaurant in Sabah, alongside a Malaysian woman, Thien Nyuk Fun. The woman was released earlier in November.
 
According to reports reaching security officials in Manila, the victims remains were immediately buried in the vicinity of Barangay Tanan in Indanan. His head was reportedly thrown down a ravine in the same area.
 
At around 8:30 pm the same day, a street sweeper reportedly found the kidnap victim's severed head, placed inside a sack with a note bearing the man's name, in Jolo, Sulu.
 
In the past, the Abu Sayyaf released hostages only after hefty ransoms were paid.
 
They have also beheaded captives if their demands were not met.
 

VLOG: Aquino blasts China at ASEAN summit

From Rappler (Nov 22): VLOG: Aquino blasts China at ASEAN summit

Aquino repeatedly criticizes China's massive reclamation in the South China Sea during the ASEAN summit and related events in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

ASEAN SOLIDARITY. Philippine President Benigno Aquino III links arms with fellow ASEAN leaders during the 27th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the Plenary Theater of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on November 21, 2015. Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacañang Photo Bureau

ASEAN SOLIDARITY. Philippine President Benigno Aquino III links arms with fellow ASEAN leaders during the 27th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the Plenary Theater of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on November 21, 2015. Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacañang Photo Bureau

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - Philippine President Benigno Aquino III repeatedly criticizes China's land reclamation in the South China Sea during his last Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit.
 
At the ASEAN summit and related events here, Aquino raises the dispute with fellow ASEAN leaders, and the group's partners.
 
Ayee Macaraig reports.

The sea with many names” is the common refrain from Philippine President Benigno Aquino III here in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia at a summit of Southeast Asian leaders.
While Aquino took pains not to discuss the South China Sea dispute as host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC summit in the Philippines, here at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN meeting, the president raises the topic not just once but 5 times.
In the main ASEAN summit, and the bloc's summits with China, India, the United States, and the China, Japan and South Korea group, Aquino is on a roll and repeatedly criticizes China's massive reclamation in the disputed sea.
But his most pointed statements come in the summit with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.
In the closed-door remarks, he says Beijing must take the lead in finalizing a legally-binding Code of Conduct on the South China Sea as an older, richer and more powerful nation.
He also urges his fellow ASEAN leaders not to allow China to use force or threat to claim an entire sea.
Terrorism also dominates day one of the two-day summit.
 
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak condemns the recent spate of attacks in the region and the world.
NAJIB RAZAK
MALAYSIAN PRIME MINISTER
 
We are ever vigilant against a threat that is very real in our region. Local militants and groups such as Abu Sayyaf have sworn allegiance to the so-called Islamic State. It was they who cruelly murdered our countryman Bernard Then on Tuesday. It is the ideology propagated by these extremists that is the cause of this sadistic violence. We must not lose sight of the fact that the ideology itself must be exposed as the lie that it is, and vanquished for it is not Islamic. It cannot be.
 
From security issues, the discussion at ASEAN will turn to economics on day two as the leaders endorse the regional integration by year-end.
But with Aquino, the US, Japan and even India putting the sea row squarely on the agenda, the pressure is on China to ensure that its rhetoric on regional peace matches its actions on the ground and at sea.