PH air force returns to supersonic age: Fighter jets arrive in Clark

From Rappler (Nov 28): PH air force returns to supersonic age: Fighter jets arrive in Clark

The fighter jets arrive a decade after the Philippine Air Force retired the last of its US-designed fighters in 2005



NO LONGER A JOKE. Two FA-50PH aircraft arrive at the Air Force City base in Clark, Pampanga, on November 28, 2015. Photo by Edwardo Solo/Rappler

The fighter jets have landed.

Two of a squadron of FA-50 Lead-In Fighter Trainers (LIFT) that the Philippines acquired from South Korea arrived Saturday morning, November 28, at the former US air base in Clark, Pampanga.

 

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) flew S-211 trainer jets in a diamond formation to meet the FA-50s over Tarlac. A Water Cannon Salute – a ceremony where firefighting vehicles spray water on newly arrived aircrafts – was given to the jets while they were taxiing. Guests and the media witnessed the show.

 

The arrival of the fighter jets marks the return of the Philippine Air Force to the supersonic age.

 

The jets were flown to the Philippines by South Korean pilots and will only be formally turned over to the Philippine Air Force after a series of acceptance flights. Another ceremony is expected.

 

 

BAPTISM. Fire trucks give a 'water salute' to the new aircraft, following tradition, on November 28, 2015. Photo by Edwardo Solo/Rappler

 

"All air without force" had been a long-running joke after the Air Force retired the last of its US-designed fighters in 2005.

Ten more FA-50s will arrive between 2016 and 2017 to complete the squadron that cost the government P18.9 billion ($401.6 million).

It is one of two big-ticket projects, along with the P18-billion frigates project, funded from the P85-billion ($1.806 billion) initial fund provided by the administration of President Benigno Aquino III under the Revised Modernization Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

 

The military modernization comes as the country faces the aggressiveness of China in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), where it has built artificial islands. (READ: PH to tribunal: China island building destroys seabed)

Strictly speaking, the FA-50 is a lead-in fighter trainer aircraft but it is also called a fighter jet because of its minimum fighter capabilities. The FA-50 design is derived largely from the US' F-16. This means it won't be a problem if the Philippines, in the future, gets the money to upgrade to the more expensive designs.

 

The KAI website describes the FA-50 as a "light combat derivative of the T-50 supersonic advanced jet trainer."

It can carry 4.5 tons of weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, machine guns, and precision guided bombers, among others. It is also equipped with Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS), Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), and the Counter Measure Dispenser System (CMDS).



DELIVERY. A South Korean pilot disembarks from a FA-50PH aircraft he flew to Air Force City base in Clark, Pampanga, on November 28, 2015. Photo by Edwardo Solo/Rappler

The country used to have one of the most capable air forces in the region, and was the first to have fighter jets. The Philippine Air Force became famous in 1962 when its fighter jets – upon the request of the United Nations – helped secure the airspace of Congo, and deal with secessionists.

In 1963, the Air Force also sent its men to Bali, Indonesia, after the eruption of Mount Agung affected thousands.

The country hosted a US air base in Clark, Pampanga, until the Senate voted to evict the US bases in 1991. The Philippine Air Force has since deteriorated.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/114258-philippines-fa50-jets-arrive

GRATEFUL // Youth thanked soldiers

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 27): GRATEFUL // Youth thanked soldiers



DWDD–Camp Melchor Dela Cruz, Isabela- Pupils were teary eyed as they waved goodbye to the soldiers of 5th Infantry Division yesterday, November 24 after the conduct of Outreach Program at Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Elementary School. Yesterday, the PMA Sandigan Class of 1982 and Ladies in partnership with the Army’s 5th Infantry Division and LGU- Gamu conducted an Outreach Program in observance of the 23rd National Children’s Month.

550 pupils of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Elementary School and Song-song Elementary School benefited from the free medical and dental services, supplementary feeding, and distribution of slippers and school supplies. Books were also donated to Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Elementary School.

“We are very glad and grateful that our school was chosen as one of the recipients of this activity. This is the first time that such activity is being conducted in our school’, says Mrs Angelica Uy, the principal of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Elementary School. “Masayang masaya po kami at nagpapasalamat ng lubos sa mga sundalo ng 5th Infantry Division at sa PMA Class 82 Ladies. Bilib na bilib po kami sa mga sundalo dahil ang babait nila”, Andrei Maravilla, a Grade 6 pupil of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz Elementary School said. (We are all happy and thankful to the soldiers of 5th Infantry Division and to PMA Class 82 Ladies. We admire them because they are very kind)

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/grateful-youth-thanked-soldiers/

APPREHENDED // Army Troops Capture NPA Rebels in Bukidnon

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 27): APPREHENDED // Army Troops Capture NPA Rebels in Bukidnon

BUKIDNON (DWDD) – Troops of the 8th Infantry Battalion apprehended two (2) alleged NPA members in Purok 3, Brgy. Banlag, Valencia City, Bukidnon last November 24, 2015, around 4:00 p.m., while the troops are conducting security patrol in the said area after persistent reports from the local residents was received by government troops about the presence of armed persons believed to be NPA rebels who are roaming around the outskirts of the barangay and doing extortion activities.

Ramelito Libra, Sr, 45 years old, and Ramelito C. Libra, Jr, 24 years old, both residents of Purok 1 of same baranggay, where apprehended by the troops upon noticing that Ramelito Libra, Sr was carrying a caliber .357 revolver. Also found in the possession of his son, Ramelito Libra, Jr., was one (1) rifle grenade. The apprehended persons were immediately brought to Valencia City Police Station for proper custody as both personalities will be facing charges on illegal possession of firearm and ammunition.

In the meantime, a former rebel belonging to the Guerrilla Front 6, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, who has abandoned the NPA’s armed struggle due to disgruntlement on false promises by the left, has identified the arrested persons to be his former comrades in the movement. The PNP and the 8th Infantry Battalion are still determining if there are other cases filed against the two (2) suspected NPA members.

In a statement, LTC LENNON G BABILONIA INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion, has called upon the NPA rebels to lay down their arms and abandon the armed struggle. “With the extortion activities and various exploitations that the communist rebels have been doing, no one really likes the NPA anymore. People are already very vigilant and supportive to the members of the security sector like the Army and the PNP hence the success of our security operations as evidenced by the apprehension of these two (2) suspected NPA rebels. Therefore I enjoin our rebel brothers to think things over once again and consider surrender rather that be put into harm’s way. Our government is always willing to accept you and help you out as you start your lives anew. We have our Comprehensive Local Integration Program or CLIP where our government is giving away Php 65,000.00 as livelihood assistance for our NPA brothers. Let us not waste this opportunity. We should stop fighting each other. Instead, we should all work together for peace.” says LTC BABILONIA. CMO 8IB / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/apprehended-army-troops-capture-npa-rebels-in-bukidnon/

NPA STRIKES AGAIN // ATTACK is Total Disregard to HR

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 26): NPA STRIKES AGAIN // ATTACK is Total Disregard to HR

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City (DWDD) - The NPA bandits attacked the peaceful-community of Umayamnon tribe in Sitio Miaray, Brgy Mandahican, Cabangalasan, Bukidnon at around 2:30 in the afternoon on November 23, 2015 leaving one civilian wounded and properties destroyed.

The community was filled with terror and fear after the group of Junie Tilocan alias WATIWIT of Section Committee 89 and Alfredo Banawan alias ALAB of Guerilla Front 6 all under North Central Mindanao Regional Committee indiscriminately fired their weapons destroying some of the villagers’ properties and hitting Angelo “Loyloy” Yanggahon on his right arm. He was immediately brought to Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Malaybalay City after the bandits left the area.

“This is a clear violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which is duly signed by the GPH and NDFP in 1998 at The Hague, The Netherlands that Civilian population and civilians shall be distinguished from combatants and, together with their property, shall not be the object of attack. They shall likewise be protected against indiscriminate strafing” Col Jesse Alvarez, Commander of 403^rd Infantry Brigade underscored, slamming the act as inhumane and total disregard to people’s lives.

Said attack forced the tribe to evacuate their community because of fear. Most of them are now sheltered near the barangay center of Brgy Mandihacan while some sought refuge in the neighbouring communities of Canangaan in Cabanglasan.

Meanwhile, Ltc Lennon Babilonia, Commanding Officer of 8^th Infantry Battalion has ordered his troop to pursue the said bandits in support to the ongoing Law Enforcement Operation of the local PNP.

In an interview conducted by the PNP, residents also revealed that prior the attack, the NPA forcibly taken one of their people, Angelito Tilocan, 22, years old, a former NPA member at around 6:00 A.M. last November 19, 2015 at his residence. His relative Dondon Eyawa said Angelito has not yet returned after the abduction.

“There will be no let-up in our operation. We will not let these NPA bandits harm our people. We urge the human rights advocates particularly the Commission on Human Rights and KARAPATAN to also conduct investigation on this another NPA atrocity. Their intervention will help everyone see the true picture of Lumad situation in this side of the Country.” Emphasized by Col Alvarez before he end his statement.

It can be recalled that the NPA bandits recently attacked the Talaandig Tribe in La Paz, Agusan del Sur killing Datu Cadoy in front of his people last October 3, 2015; Higaonon Tribe in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte killing Datu Ricardo Sulhayan in front of his people last October 7, 2015; Manobo Tribe in Carmen, Surigao del Sur forcing the people to evacuate their community last October 29, 2015; and Kidnapping three Higaonon from Brgy White Kulaman, Kitaotao, Bukidnon last November 4, 2015. IPs in these communities are all shouting for help against NPA tyranny. 4DPAO / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/npa-strikes-again-attack-is-total-disregard-to-hr/

REBELS PARALYZED // Top NPA Leader in Bicol Arrested

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 26): REBELS PARALYZED // Top NPA Leader in Bicol Arrested

CASTILLA, Sorsogon – A top NPA leader in Bicol was arrested on Wednesday 9:05 a.m. November 25, 2015 in Brgy Hugo Perez, Trece Martirez City, Cavite by joint elements of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) units.

Andres Hubilla known as “Ka Magno”, a member of Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC) and a former secretary of Komiteng Probinsya ng Sorsogon (KOMPROB SORSOGON), is accused with a crime of murder and attempted murder filed in Regional Trial Court of Sorsogon.

Captured in his possessions were hand grenades, cellphones and documents with high intelligence values.

Hubilla is now at Trece Martirez City Police Station for documentation and filling of appropriate and additional charges. “With the apprehension of Andres Hubilla or “Ka Magno”, the rebel’s leadership and ranks in Bicol will be paralyzed.

In effect, a more peaceful, progressive and prosperous region will soon emerge.” Said Col. Cesar M. Idio, the 903rd Infantry Brigade Commander. “The AFP together with the PNP will proficiently work against these threat groups in order to attain the peace that the Bicolanos desires.” Col. Idio added. CMO 903^rd Bde / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/rebels-paralyzed-top-npa-leader-in-bicol-arrested/

China to reorganize military command

From the Manila Times (Nov 27): China to reorganize military command

China will carry out sweeping reforms to the structure of its military, state media reported, in moves intended to enhance the ruling Communist Party’s control over the People’s Liberation Army.

China’s armed forces have long been plagued by inefficiency and corruption, even as Beijing adopts more assertive stances in territorial disputes with neighbors including Japan and the Philippines over islands in the East and South China Seas.

President Xi Jinping’s widely-publicized anti-corruption campaign — which critics say has been used for factional infighting — has ensnared former top generals Guo Boxiong and the late Xu Caihou among a long list of high-ranking military officers.

Xi told a three-day meeting of more than 200 senior government officials and military brass: “The ultimate leadership and command power of the military must be better centralized under the party and the Central Military Commission (CMC).”

The PLA is technically the armed wing of the Communist Party, rather than the Chinese state, and the official Xinhua news agency cited Xi as saying: “Under the leadership of the Party, the army has gone from small to large, from weak to strong, and from victory to victory.”

The military’s four powerful headquarters — general staff, political, logistics and armaments — will be “reorganized” under the CMC, Xinhua reported after the closed-door meeting ended Thursday.

New “battle zones” will be created to focus on combat and joint operation command systems will be set up, it cited Xi as saying, replacing China’s existing seven “military regions,” which have separate command structures and significant administrative responsibilities.

A new military discipline department and an audit office will be established as part of efforts to “get rid of the soil in which corruption can arise and grow,” Xinhua said.

Xi reiterated a September announcement that the military’s numbers will be cut by 300,000 personnel, but said that China was changing “from a large country to a large and powerful one.”

China’s neighbors have expressed concerns over its actions, particularly its rapid construction of artificial islands in disputed South China Sea waters.

The defense ministry in Beijing on Friday said the government’s defense policy would remain “defensive in nature.”

“Chinese armed forces will always be a staunch force to safeguard world peace and regional stability,” Xinhua quoted ministry spokesman Yang Yujun as saying.

http://www.manilatimes.net/china-to-reorganize-military-command/231517/

MILF: “Let us not lose time, pass the draft law on the Bangsamoro”: GPH, MILF Peace Panels ask lawmakers

Posted to the MILF Website (Nov 28): “Let us not lose time, pass the draft law on the Bangsamoro”: GPH, MILF Peace Panels ask lawmakers



Photo courtesy of Bangsamoro Transition Commission

“Let us not lose time, Time is short, but there is still time. We ask our legislators to work for the immediate passage of the draft law on the Bangsamoro,” the Government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace panels said in an open letter to the two chambers of Congress.

On behalf of their respective groups, the two peace panel chairs, Miriam Colonel-Ferrer for the government and Mohagher Iqbal for the MILF and , said the passage of the law will pave the way for the decommissioning of thousands of weapons and combatants of the MILF and “will enable the peaceful transition of an armed group into regular members of society, participating and competing in free and fair elections.”
The 17-years peace negotiation between the state and the MILF resulted to the signing of Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) in 2014 which provided the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), a proposed legislation that will establish a new autonomous Bangsamoro political entity once passed by Congress and ratified through a plebiscite.

The deliberations of the BBL encounters delay due to lack of quorum as the lawmakers become busy with the setting in of the election season.

“Let us allow the MILF to proceed to the third and last stage of their struggle: from pure armed struggle from 1972 to 1997; political struggle from 1997 to the passage and ratification of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL); to democratic struggle where their rights and aspirations are pursued solely through civilized and democratic means,” the open letter stated.

The two panels underscored the importance of the BBL for it will
establish a “more representative and responsive autonomous government, without the structural flaws found in the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).”

They added that the legislative measure will sustain the development initiatives that have flourished under the current ceasefire and the normalization programs provided for in the CAB.

“A good legislation passed in this Congress will redound to the benefit of the next administration. For one, the next president will be in an immensely better position to continue the peace and development efforts that have been gradually put in place, without the difficulty of having to reinstate a stalled process,”they continued.

“Secondly, the next Congress will be able to focus on other important laws. It will be spared the burden of having to go through new rounds of committee hearings and plenary interpellations on a Bangsamoro law.”

The peace panels said the BBL can “help in curbing the spread of extremism in Mindanao. In particular, the Bangsamoro government would be able to help moderate Islamic leaders to counter the ideology of radicalism being promoted by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and steer the Muslim community away from ISIS influence."

“For one, this will settle one of the more serious internal armed conflicts and essentially free up a significant component of the Armed Forces of the Philippines… to shift resources to focus on external concerns, principally the protection of our external territorial integrity and maritime domain which is now being threatened,” they added.

The peace negotiators said, “From this global lens, the Philippine peace process on the Bangsamoro has earned the support of the international community for providing a model whereby an Islamic movement can find redress of its grievances through a civilized and democratic process, within the country’s territorial integrity and constitutional framework.”

Diplomats in the country praised the signing of the CAB and are hopeful for the success of the Bangsamoro peace process.

“In particular, we beseech Speaker of the House Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. and Senate President Franklin Drilon, as well as House Ad Hoc Committee Chair Rufus Rodriguez and Senate Local Governments Committtee Chair Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., to see through the legislative process leading to the passage of the law,” the peace panels said.

The open letter ended persuading the lawmakers to open their hearts and “to give our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters this one good chance to enjoy the right to peace, and partake of meaningful reforms and development.’
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/703-let-us-not-lose-time-pass-the-draft-law-on-the-bangsamoro-gph-milf-peace-panels-ask-lawmakers

MILF: MILF Political Committee holds Advocacy on Bangsamoro Unity and Solidarity

Posted to the MILF Website (Nov 28): MILF Political Committee holds Advocacy on Bangsamoro Unity and Solidarity



KAYAGA, PANDAG, MAGUINDANAO– About sixteen thousand people representing CSO’s, traditional and religious leaders, the academe, local politicians and from the International Monitoring Team (IMT) attended an Advocacy on Bangsamoro Unity and Solidarity organized by Damakling Provincial Committee on November 26.

Sammy Al Mansor, Chief of Staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) and Secretary General of the Bangsamoro United Justice Party (UBJP) told the participants that unity and solidarity are the objectives of the world today. “Hatred with one another is the cause of injustice. Oppression,  exploitation and human greed are among the causes of disunity. Therefore, we must spread the essence of love among us so that unity and solidarity are achieved”, he said.

Mohagher Iqbal, MILF Peace Panel chair and also chair of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission Chairman (BTC) said that “Unity and solidarity are our objectives to achieve peace. “These are two frameworks towards common goal. Good leader has inclusivity principle in leading community. Strong Bangsamoro is the unity of MILF, MNLF, traditional leaders, NGOs, academe, politicians, IPs and communities”, Iqbal added.

He shared updates on the status of BBL.   “Until now the period of interpellation by the Senate is not yet through. After interpellations, the period of amendment follows.

There are two versions of BBL, the House Version and the Senate Version. Whether there is original BBL or diluted BBL, the MILF must continue seeking peace. The international community, the UN Secretary General, OIC Secretary General, US State Secretary, LGUs, NGOs, CSOs and the Catholic Church and other religious sectors expressed their continuous support to GPH-MILF Peace Process”, Iqbal also said.

Ghazali Jaafar, 1st Vice Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Central Committee (MILF-CC), centered his message on unification and reconciliation. “The MILF has sent officers of the Unification and Reconciliation Committee to MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari, MNLF 15 Council Chairman Muslimin Sema, Randy Karon, Abulkhair Alonto and other groups of Bangsamoro for the said purpose. Unification and Reconciliation are the best way in achieving common objective”, he said.

Important personalities who gave messages were Hon. Jehan Mamalinta-Mangudadtu, Mayor of Pandag, Maguindanao, Hon. Zajid G. Mangudadatu, Congressman of Maguindanao 2nd District, Hon. Ali B. Sangki, former Maguindanao 2nd District Board Member, Hon. Ibrahim G. Mangudadatu, former Mayor of Buluan, Maguindanao, Hon. Mohammad P. Paglas, Mayor of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao, Hon. Khadafy G. Mangudadatu, Assemblyman of Maguindanao 2nd District, Hon. Datu Antao Midtimbang, Mayor of Guindulungan, Maguindanao,  Traditional leader Sultan Amir Camsa, MNLF Representative Romeo Sema and Hon. Esmael G. Mangudadatu, Maguindanao Provincial Governor.

Also in attendance were Prof Esmael A. Abdula, Executive Director of Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute Inc. and BLMI Steering Committee member, Javer Kumandi Sr., President of Federation of Damakling Professionals, Inc., Hon. Zulaika P. Langkuno, Mayor of Paglat, Maguindanao and her Vice-Mayor Hon. Boniao Kali, Hon. Abubakar P. Paglas, former Mayor of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao, and BIAF 109th Base Commander Hadji Abas Bukol and his three deputies.  

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/702-milf-political-committee-holds-advocacy-on-bangsamoro-unity-and-solidarity

MILF: GPH, MILF Peace panels sent Joint Open Letter to Congressional leaders for immediate passage of BBL

Posted to the MILF Website (Nov 28): GPH, MILF Peace panels sent Joint Open Letter to Congressional leaders for immediate passage of BBL



Professor Miriam Coronel- Ferrer and Mohagher Iqbal, Chairs of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), respectively jointly sent an open letter to congressional leaders on November 26, urged them to work for the immediate passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

The full text of their letter, “Let us not Lose Time”, reads as follows:

“Time is short, but there is still time. We ask our legislators to work for the immediate passage of the draft law on the Bangsamoro.

Time is of the essence, and opportunity knocks only once.

The passage of the law will pave the way for the decommissioning of thousands of weapons and combatants of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). It will enable the peaceful transition of an armed group into regular members of society, participating and competing in free and fair elections.

Let us allow the MILF to proceed to the third and last stage of their struggle: from pure armed struggle from 1972 to 1997;  political struggle from 1997 to the passage and ratification of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL); to democratic struggle where their rights and aspirations are pursued solely through civilized and democratic means.

The Bangsamoro law will establish a more representative and responsive autonomous government, without the structural flaws found in the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). It will sustain the development initiatives that have flourished under the current ceasefire and the normalization programs provided for in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Let us not lose time.

A good legislation passed in this Congress will redound to the benefit of the next administration. For one, the next president will be in an immensely better position to continue the peace and development efforts that have been gradually put in place, without the difficulty of having to reinstate a stalled process.

Secondly, the next Congress will be able to focus on other important laws. It will be spared the burden of having to go through new rounds of committee hearings and plenary interpellations on a Bangsamoro law.

Some say that the next administration and Congress will have more time. Our fear is that it would have lost precious time too -- precious time that could have closed the door to extreme, violent movements that recruit followers by exploiting the alienation of segments of the population from government and society at large.

In the light of the recent horrible spate of violence that we have been witnessing in Paris, Mali, Syria and other parts of the world, we call to mind the words of the National Security Council last October 20, 2014, at the public hearing of the House of Representatives Ad Hoc committee on the draft law:

  "The passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law has positive national security implications. For one, this will settle one of the more serious internal armed conflicts and essentially free up a significant component of the Armed Forces of the Philippines… to shift resources to focus on external concerns, principally the protection of our external territorial integrity and maritime domain which is now being threatened.

Passing the BBL can help in curbing the spread of extremism in Mindanao. In particular, the Bangsamoro government would be able to help moderate Islamic leaders to counter the ideology of radicalism being promoted by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and steer the Muslim community away from ISIS influence."*

From this global lens, the Philippine peace process on the Bangsamoro has earned the support of the international community for providing a model whereby an Islamic movement can find redress of its grievances through a civilized and democratic process, within the country’s territorial integrity and constitutional framework.

We are at the cusp of closing a major armed conflict that has divided our people for decades. But we cannot reach our destination without the goodwill and show of statesmanship from our leaders in the august halls of Congress, in whose hands the legislative power lies.

In particular, we beseech Speaker of the House Feliciano Belmonte, Jr.  and Senate President Franklin Drilon, as well as House Ad Hoc Committee Chair Rufus Rodriguez and Senate Local Governments Committtee Chair Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., to see through the legislative process leading to the passage of the law.

We ask you, our legislators, to open your hearts and to give our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters this one good chance to enjoy the right to peace, and partake of meaningful reforms and development.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/701-gph-milf-peace-panels-sent-joint-open-letter-to-congressional-leaders-for-immediate-passage-of-bbl

MILF: BTC-JICA Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for Bangsamoro Turns-Over Two Multi-Purpose Hall Buildings in Davao Region

Posted to the MILF Website (Nov 27): BTC-JICA Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for Bangsamoro Turns-Over Two Multi-Purpose Hall Buildings in Davao Region



Photo-opt after the turn-over ceremony at barangay Laak, Laak, Compostella Valley on November 23, 2015.

The Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) spearheaded the turn-over ceremonies of the two multi-purpose hall buildings at the Barangays of Laak, Compostella Valley and Tarragona, Davao Oriental on November 23 and 24, 2015, respectively.

The project is under the BTC-JICA Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro  (BTC-JICA CCDP-B) in cooperation with the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
   
“MILF is not anti-development”, said Engr. Mohajirin T. Ali, Project Director of CCDP-B. “MILF will always support and promote development within and outside the Bangsamoro Core Territory. Through the help of the BDA, the good people of Laak should be thankful for being one of the identified recipients of the twenty (20) projects given to the selected project sites.

We should always remember that this is the first time that MILF leadership has initiated a project for the people to immediately feel the dividends of peace. Even in the future, when the Bangsamoro Government is in place, communities outside its core territory will still be a priority for developments”, he added.

It was on March 28, 2015, when MILF Chairman Al haj Murad Ebrahim and JICA President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka agreed and committed that the peace dividends should be realized swiftly and inclusively to create confidence and mutual trust among the stakeholders of the peace process through the implementation of Quick Impact Project (QIP).

“With or without BBL, JICA will always stay beside and support the peace and unity of the future generations of the Bangsamoro even in such difficult situation” said Mr. Naoyuki Ochiai, Head and Chief Leader of JICA Cotabato Project Office.

“This project signifies enduring peace-building and strong cooperation between MILF, Bangsamoro people and JICA. We hope that through this facility, many opportunities will come to contribute in the socio-economic development of the Community”, he added.

On November 24, a new multi-purpose hall building was finally turned-over to the people of Tarragona as one of the recipients of 20 QIPs.


“What makes this project more symbolic and meaningful is the fact that it is located outside the territory of the future Bangsamoro Government”, said Atty. Haron Meling, Chief Executive Secretary of Chairman Mohagher Iqbal of the BTC. “We are happy to know that this faraway barangay is now a recipient of tangible monument of peace and development”, Meling added.

People of Laak and Tarragona expressed their wholehearted gratitude to BTC, JICA, and BDA for this rare opportunity extended to them. They feel that they are never left behind and always part of the inclusivity of the initiative. In exchange for this generosity, they committed to maintain the facility and utilize it properly.

These events were also attended by the International Monitoring Team (IMT) Head of Mission Major General Sheikh Mohsin bin Sheikh Hassan, BTC Commissioner Hussein Munoz, JICA Philippines Senior Representative Yuko Tanaka, BDA Representative Engr. Aida Silongan, CCDP Project Manager, Dr. Norodin Salam, Local Government Units, members of MILF Political Committee and other stakeholders who are part of the success of this project.

Last November 19, multi-purpose hall building was also turned-over and inaugurated at Barangay Kibingi, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao. That was attended by Municipal Mayor Samsoden Dimaukom, Mr. Ochiai and BTC Representative Archie Buaya.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/700-btc-jica-comprehensive-capacity-development-project-for-bangsamoro-turns-over-two-multi-purpose-hall-buildings-in-davao-region

Retired general files smuggling complaint vs AFP, BOC officials

From ABS-CBN (Nov 28): Retired general files smuggling complaint vs AFP, BOC officials

Retired General Romulo Maninding has accused several officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) of smuggling firearms.

Maninding filed a violation of Republic Act 10581 and RA 3019 complaint against the following:

Gen. Herbando Iriberri,
Brig. Gen. Job Yucoco,
Police Chief Supt. Elmo Francis Sarona,
Eduard Del Mundo of Caballo Negro Industriya,
Alan Mendoza of System Nomics,
Gulderen Baglacer, MKEK Export Manager,
Hasan Sahan, MKEK Director of Marketing, and
Unnamed officials of the BOC-Subic Bay.

The case stemmed from the procurement, supply, and delivery of 4,500 rounds of CTG 105 MM HE with fuse ammunition to the Philippine Army, and 1,000 rounds CTG 105 MM Howitzer HE to the Philippine Navy.

Maninding is the president of ROFERMA Enterprises, which was the appointed local counterpart of the Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation of the Republic of Turkey (MKEK), the ammunition supplier.

Through ROFERMA, MKEK won various contracts for the AFP ammunition supply.

Maninding claimed that MKEK cancelled ties and ceased to communicate with his company.

He later found out that MKEK proceeded to supply the AFP with ammunition.

The complaint mentioned that 1,000 rounds of ammunition were released by the BOC in Subic Bay despite the absence of supporting authority to import and Bill of Lading.

Aside from investigating the said officials for violation of grave misconduct and gross neglect of duty, Maninding is also asking the Ombudsman for their suspension.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/11/27/15/retired-general-files-smuggling-complaint-vs-afp-boc-officials

MNLF member arrested for double murder

From ABS-CBN (Nov 28): MNLF member arrested for double murder

An alleged member of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) tagged in the killing of a barangay chairman and a 10-year-old girl in 2013 has been arrested in Lawingan, Barangay Labuan, Zamboanga City.

Police Chief Inspector Raymond Sanson said the suspect, identified as Benhar Abdul Tuknol, a native of Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte, was arrested Friday afternoon.

Tuknol was charged for the killing of Allimuddin Quilla, village chief
of Cuspian, Zamboanga del Norte, and a 10-year-old girl.

Police said the house of Quilla was peppered with bullets by the group of Tuknol in July 2013, killing the two victims.

The suspects went into hiding following the incident.

Police consider Tuknol as a high-profile suspect due to his connection with the MNLF operating in Zamboanga del Norte.

He was immediately brought to the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center due to security concerns.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/11/27/15/mnlf-member-arrested-for-double-murder

China air force again holds drills in Western Pacific

From ABS-CBN (Nov 28): China air force again holds drills in Western Pacific

China's air force said on Friday it had flown bombers and other jets through a strait between Japanese islands on their way to drills in the Western Pacific, and had carried out a patrol in China's air identification zone in the East China Sea.

"This year the air force has four times carried out drills in the Western Pacific, raising the air force's ability to fight over long distances far out at sea," it said in a statement on its official microblog.

China's ties with Japan have been strained by a longstanding territorial dispute over a string of islets in the East China Sea, known in China as the Diaoyu and in Japan as the Senkaku.

The two countries have also clashed over what China sees as Japan's refusal to take responsibility for its wartime past.

Aircraft of the People's Liberation Army did the exercises after flying over the Miyako Strait, a body of water between Japan's islands of Miyako and Okinawa, the air force statement said.

It showed pictures of H-6 bombers participating in the exercise, and said there was also a patrol with fighters and early warning aircraft in the East China Sea identification zone.

The drills were normal exercises and China will continue to carry them out in accordance with international practice, the ministry said.

China's navy has often used the Miyako Strait, a key strategic route for the military, as a pathway from eastern China to the Pacific Ocean.

China drew condemnation from Japan and the United States in 2013 when it imposed an Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), in which aircraft are supposed to identify themselves to Chinese authorities.

The air force said that since the zone was set up it had been carrying out regular patrols there.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/global-filipino/world/11/28/15/china-air-force-again-holds-drills-in-western-pacific

Police nab suspected bomber in Cotabato

From GMA News (Nov 27): Police nab suspected bomber in Cotabato

– Authorities nabbed a suspected bomber and gun-for-hire in a surprise raid they conducted in Kabacan town, Cotabato, around 3 a.m. Friday.

Police identified the suspect as Derby Gani, also known as, ‘Manok’, 35, and a resident of Barangay Lower Paatan, Kabacan.

Senior Superintendent Alex Tagum, provincial director of the Cotabato Philippine National Police, said the suspect was tagged as one of the "brains" of the series of grenade-throwing incidents and explosions in Kabacan town and in nearby towns of Carmen and Pikit, all in Cotabato.

They recovered from the suspect a caliber pistol and berretta which, data showed, were issued to two police officers who figured in previous shooting incidents in the province.  The guns were issued to a certain SPO1 Oro and SPO1 Desendario.

Also seized from Gani was a fragmentation grenade, the same type of explosive that was used in three grenade-throwing incidents in Kabacan that wounded six bystanders and commuters.

He was also tagged as behind the explosions that destroyed several towers of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) stationed in Pikit town, also in Cotabato.

Tagum said they launched a special operation against Gani after a search warrant was issued against him by a local court in Kidapawan City.   

Gani’s arrest was also part of Cotabato Police Provincial Office’s, ‘one time, big time’ operations against drug syndicates and other criminals and lawless elements operating in the province.  

Friday’s operations were already CPPO’s third since October.

Tagum assured their operations would continue as long as criminals "thrive" in the province. 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/545972/news/regions/police-nab-suspected-bomber-in-cotabato

RPA will turn over all firearms: Tabara

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 28): RPA will turn over all firearms: Tabara

The Rebolusyunaryong Partido ng Manggagawa-Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade-Tabara Paduano Group is committed to turn over all its firearms, once the closure agreement is signed, RPM-P chairwoman Veronica Tabara said.

“We commit that within six months after the signing of the closure agreement, we will fully turnover all of our firearms,”  Tabara assured .

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process has profiled almost 1,000 members of the rebel reformist group, who possess more than 700 high-powered firearms and explosives.

It would be useless to fully turnover all our firearms if there will be no Peace and Development Community sites since part of the agreement is that there will be community defense force arrangement (with the Philippine Army), Tabara said.

The establishment of PDC sites, including three in Negros Occidental and one in Aklan, which covers almost 800 hectares, also included in the OPAPP PAMANA (   Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) programs will be occupied by 366 families of former rebels.

In support to the closure agreement between the government and the RPMP/RPA/ABB Tabara- Paduano Group, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources hired about 100 of their members as forest guards, pursuant to the DENR– OPAPP (Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process) Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2013-02.           
      
Tabara was quoted in a DENR statement as expressing their gratitude for giving them employment, that used to be an elusive opportunity for them.

“We have proven to ourselves that we can work along with civilians. Before, we used to think that we need the arms to get benefits. Now we have worked together with National Greening Program (of DENR), with the community, and we are able to help the government in its reforestation program,” Tabara said.

DENR 6 regional director Jim Sampulna said members of the reformist rebel group turned out to be reliable partners in their reforestation programs, and instrumental in strengthening their environmental conservation and protection activities.

Tabara also said that tapping of their members for the National Greening Program of DENR is a big help to the peace process.

“Because of this, we believe that, indeed, the government is committed to help us,” she said, adding that they are looking forward to the signing of the closure agreement, which will provide them social and economic re-integration, civic and political rights and security.

With barely seven months remaining before the term of President Benigno Aquino III ends June 30 next year, the closure agreement has yet to be signed.

The RPM-P-RPA-ABB entered into the peace agreement with the government in year 2000.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2015/November/28/topstory3.htm

2 soldiers killed in suspected NPA ambush in Samar

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 28): 2 soldiers killed in suspected NPA ambush in Samar

Two soldiers were killed while three others were wounded in an ambush allegedly staged by communist rebels in Catbalogan City, Samar, on Friday night.

The rebels also took the P1.8 million in food allowance intended for soldiers of the 14th Infantry Battalion where the victims belonged.

The fatalities were identified as Sgt. Christopher Campos and Corporal Chelito Edera who died from bullet and shrapnel wounds caused by a land mine that exploded before the rebels opened fire.

Wounded were Lt. Gerwin Ladera, leader of the five-member team; Private First Class Rey Calabroso and Private First Class Jack Macatantan who were all in stable condition at the division health station.

The soldiers went to Camp Lukban, headquarters of the Philippine Army in Eastern Visayas located in Catbalogan City, on Friday to get their meal allocation for next month worth P1.8 million.

The soldiers, who were on board a military truck, were on their way to their camp in Barangay Dao in Oras town, Eastern Samar.

About 40 minutes after they left Camp Lukban, the truck hit a land mine that exploded about 7:40 p.m. along the Maharlika Highway in Barangay Lagundi Catbalogan City.

After the explosion, alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA), who positioned themselves on the roadside, opened fire at the soldiers, said Capt. Isagani Viernes, spokesperson of the 8th infantry division.

READ: 1 soldier killed, 5 hurt in ambush by suspected NPA in N. Samar

The rebels then took the money before escaping, said Viernes.

Insurgency remains a big problem in Eastern Visayas.

Three days before the ambush in Catbalogan City, communist rebels also ambushed a group of soldiers in Catarman town, Northern Samar on Nov. 24, killing one soldier and wounding five others.  http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/743225/2-soldiers-killed-in-suspected-npa-ambush-in-samar

Indonesian jihadist’s ISIS links confirmed

From The Standard (Nov 28): Indonesian jihadist’s ISIS links confirmed

THE Indonesian terrorist killed in an encounter with security forces in Sultan Kudarat is one of 10 jihadists with links to the Islamic State who are in the country for still unknown reasons, an intelligence source told The Standard  Friday.

Sucipto Ibrahim Ali, a member of the Mujahidin Indonesia Timur, had slipped into the country with nine other foreign jihadists and were not hiding in Mindanao, the source added.

Sucipto, he added, was one of the core group members of Ansar Khilafa Philippines, along with five Malaysians, three Syrians and another

Indonesian, who sought sanctuary among local Islamists in Mindanao. He was also said to have received international funding for his operations here and in Indonesia.

Malaysian authorities have sought cooperation from their Philippine counterparts to interdict the five Malaysians linked to ISIS, who have recruited some of their citizens to fight in Syria and Iraq.

Col. Restituto Padilla

The source said Ansar Khilafa Philippines is composed of local militants from the Abu Sayyaf, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the Rayah Solaiman Movement, and jihadists who pledged allegiance to ISIS to become soldiers of the Caliphate.

National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia had described Sucipto’s killing as a significant victory in the global fight against terrorism, but the Armed Forces  on Friday  dismissed the group as “lawless elements [who are just] professing ties with the terrorist organization ISIS.”

Armed Forces spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said they have received information relating to the three Syrian nationals but they have yet to validate the report.

The military said the slain terrorists were part of the AKP group seen in a recent posted videos expressing their support to the extremists group purportedly to gain attention.

Despite the killing of the Indonesian terrorist, Padilla ruled out a link between the group and ISIS.

The source further revealed that ISIS is trying to establish a regional cell in Southeast Asia as part of its plan to launch operations worldwide.

“ISIS has the capacity to conduct operations [here] on the level of sophistication that they showed in Europe, Africa and the Middle East,” the source said.

He cited the attack of six ISIS suicide commandos in France that left 130 dead, the hotel assault in Mali, in West Africa killing 20 people and Tunisia that killed 13 people, including the suicide bomber.

Padilla said operations would continue against “lawless elements” in Sultan Kudarat.
Troops killed Sucipto and seven jihadists in a clash reported  Thursday. Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Maj. Felimon Tan Jr. said the eight killed were members of the Ansar Al Khalifa, an ISIS terror cell operating in Mindanao.

The military is still verifying if the slain Indonesian was indeed Sucipto, a member of the Mujahidin Indonesia Timur, which has direct links to the ISIS.

http://www.thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/193054/indonesian-jihadist-s-isis-links-confirmed.html

EDITORIAL - ISIS in the Philippines?

Editorial from the Philippine Star (Nov 28): EDITORIAL - ISIS in the Philippines?



Five black flags similar to those used by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria were found at the site of an encounter the other day between the military and eight members of a bandit group in Sultan Kudarat. The eight were killed in the encounter, with one of them reported to be one of the men wanted for the deadly nightclub bombings in Bali, Indonesia in 2002.

The Bali bombings were blamed on the Southeast Asian terror cell Jemaah Islamiyah, which in the Philippines has long enjoyed protection from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. JI members have operated with the Abu Sayyaf and other armed groups so the presence in Sultan Kudarat of a terrorist wanted for the Bali bombing was not surprising.

A source of concern for security officials was the presence of the black flags. Has ISIS gained a foothold in the Philippines? Security officials say there are reports that members of the Abu Sayyaf and certain criminal gangs in Mindanao have pledged allegiance to ISIS, but so far there is no verified direct link between Philippine armed groups and the extremists responsible for a string of large-scale terrorist attacks in the past weeks in France, Mali and Egypt.

While there may be no direct link, ISIS provides inspiration to extremists around the world. The Abu Sayyaf, which is believed to have earned hundreds of millions in ransom for kidnapped foreigners since last year alone, may have no need for funding and logistics support from ISIS. But other armed threats such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters can use money, arms and training in the ways of mass destruction from the Islamic State.

ISIS has shown its capability for ruthless mass murder. In the Philippines where Islamist extremists have operated for decades, it is prudent to consider the likelihood of ISIS influencing more violent activities. Every effort must be made to prevent this from happening.

http://www.philstar.com/opinion/2015/11/28/1526776/editorial-isis-philippines

Alleged Abu Sayyaf member arrested for death of 2 US soldiers

From ABS-CBN (Nov 28): Alleged Abu Sayyaf member arrested for death of 2 US soldiers

An alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was arrested inside the wharf in Jolo, Sulu Friday afternoon, the military said.

Brigadier General Alan Arrojado, commander of Joint Task Group Sulu, identified the alleged bandit as Saddam Jailani, who has a standing arrest warrant for multiple murder and frustrated murder issued by 7th Regional Trial Court Judge Alexander Acosta in Cebu City.

Arrojado said Jailani was allegedly involved in the road side bombing near a military detachment in Indanan, Sulu in 2009, killing two US servicemen and a soldier of the Philippine Marines. Two other Filipino soldiers were wounded in the attack.

Jailani has been an active member of the ASG, whose tasks include providing logistical needs to the group, Arrojado added.

The Regional Chief of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Western Mindanao, Senior Superintendent John Guyguyun said Jailani was also involved in other bombing incidents in Mindanao.

He is a known follower of ASG sub-commander Alhabsy Misaya, who was responsible in kidnapping the Malaysian couple, Thien Nyuk Fun and Bernard Then Fen in a restaurant in Sandakan, Malaysia in May 14, 2015, Guyguyun said.

Fun was released November 8 after allegedly paying a multimillion-peso ransom to the Abu Sayyaf Group.

More than a week after, the bandits executed Then after his family failed to meet the demands of the group.

Jailani was brought to Zamboanga City and will be placed under the custody of CIDG Region 9.

https://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/11/27/15/alleged-abu-sayyaf-member-arrested-for-death-of-2-us-soldiers

Slain Sultan Kudarat bandits not tied with ISIS: AFP

From ABS-CBN/ANC (Nov 27): Slain Sultan Kudarat bandits not tied with ISIS: AFP

 

MANILA - The bandit group which clashed with government forces in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on Thursday is not linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham or ISIS, the armed forces clarified Friday.

Speaking on ANC's "Dateline Philippines," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Restituto Padilla said that other than the ISIS flag found in the camp of Ansurul Khilafah Philippines (AKP) in Barangay Butril, there is insufficient evidence to tie them with ISIS.

READ: 8 killed in attack vs 'ISIS sympathizers' camp

"We just treat them as criminals and bandits at the moment. Their claim to becoming extremist terrorists are primarily motivated by trying to get sources of funds and extort money from the general business in the area," Padilla said.

"We wouldn't really categorically say that they are indeed extremist members of the ISIS nor are they affiliated with them."

Padilla also stressed that although AKP earlier proclaimed itself as ISIS sympathizers last year, they do not receive support from Islamic extremists.

"The group brought out lately some video materials claiming their report for the group ISIS. But per our information, there are no known leads and connections, or even support that comes from the ISIS themselves for this group and other groups claiming the same thing all throughout the Philippines," Padilla said.

"That's why we always constantly say and remind the public that they should not be scared because these things are just remote and simple attempts of some would-be extremist groups trying to get the sympathy of bigger ones."

Eight AKP members were killed in the joint security operation of AFP, Philippine Marines, and the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Thursday.

Padilla said government troops were supposed to serve four existing warrant of arrests against Mohd Jaafar Maguid alias Tukboy, who leads the group with Ansar Al Khalifa.

The soldiers, however, were attacked by at least 50 AKP members, resulting in a four-hour firefight.

Maguid, who is a former MILF member, has been tagged in extortion acts, wildlife smuggling and a bombing attack in Sarangani City in 2008. He escaped the raids.

Four of the eight fatalities in the encounter have been identified by the PNP, Padilla said.

The AFP, however, has yet to receive the PNP's report. Padilla also declined to confirm reports that an Indonesian terrorist was among the eight killed.

The army continues to monitor private armed groups and Abu Sayyaf Group rebels who hold several hostages in Jolos, Sulu.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/v1/11/28/15/slain-sultan-kudarat-bandits-not-tied-with-isis-afp

2 Moro groups disown 7 men killed during clash with soldiers

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 27): 2 Moro groups disown 7 men killed during clash with soldiers

Two Moro rebel groups on Friday disowned the seven men – including a suspected Indonesian – whom government security forces had killed during a clash in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, on Thursday.

Abu Misri Mama, spokesperson of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, said they have no association with the seven men and that their commander on the ground, Mohamad Jaafar Maguid alias Commander Tokboy, had no participation in the fighting.

 

“We have forces in Butril but they were not involved in the encounter that happened,” Mama said by phone.

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) also made a similar statement and even claimed that the operation – conducted by the Marines – had been properly coordinated with it.

Mohagher Iqbal, MILF chief negotiator, told the Inquirer by phone that the MILF did not know what group the armed men belonged to and who they were.

 

“We are still in the process of identifying them,” Iqbal said.

 

Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Salamat, commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, confirmed on Friday the identity of the Indonesian national, who was among the fatalities during the four-hour gun battle that started around 5:20 a.m. in the village of Butril.

 

He identified the Indonesian man as Ibrahim Alih.

 

“Their bodies were recovered along with an IS flag. One of them was a certain Ibrahim Alih, alias Abdul Fatah and Abu Fattah,” Salamat said.

 

He also said the 50 men that the Marines had encountered belong to the Ansar Al-Khilafa Philippines, a relatively new militant group that had pledged allegiance to theIslamic State of Syria and Iraq. 

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/743053/2-moro-groups-disown-7-men-killed-during-clash-with-soldiers

OPAPP: Open Letter to the Philippine Congress from the Government and MILF Peace Panels

From the OPAPP Website (Nov 26): Open Letter to the Philippine Congress from the Government and MILF Peace Panels

Let us not lose time

Time is short, but there is still time. We ask our legislators to work for the immediate passage of the draft law on the Bangsamoro.

Time is of the essence, and opportunity knocks only once.

The passage of the law will pave the way for the decommissioning of thousands of weapons and combatants of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). It will enable the peaceful transition of an armed group into regular members of society, participating and competing in free and fair elections.

Let us allow the MILF to proceed to the third and last stage of their struggle: from pure armed struggle from 1972 to 1997;  political struggle from 1997 to the passage and ratification of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL); to democratic struggle where their rights and aspirations are pursued solely through civilized and democratic means.

The Bangsamoro law will establish a more representative and responsive autonomous government, without the structural flaws found in the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). It will sustain the development initiatives that have flourished under the current ceasefire and the normalization programs provided for in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

Let us not lose time.

A good legislation passed in this Congress will redound to the benefit of the next administration. For one, the next president will be in an immensely better position to continue the peace and development efforts that have been gradually put in place, without the difficulty of having to reinstate a stalled process.

Secondly, the next Congress will be able to focus on other important laws. It will be spared the burden of having to go through new rounds of committee hearings and plenary interpellations on a Bangsamoro law.

Some say that the next administration and Congress will have more time. Our fear is that it would have lost precious time too -- precious time that could have closed the door to extreme, violent movements that recruit followers by exploiting the alienation of segments of the population from government and society at large.

In the light of the recent horrible spate of violence that we have been witnessing in Paris, Mali, Syria and other parts of the world, we call to mind the words of the National Security Council last October 20, 2014, at the public hearing of the House of Representatives Ad Hoc committee on the draft law:

  "The passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law has positive national security implications. For one, this will settle one of the more serious internal armed conflicts and essentially free up a significant component of the Armed Forces of the Philippines… to shift resources to focus on external concerns, principally the protection of our external territorial integrity and maritime domain which is now being threatened.

Passing the BBL can help in curbing the spread of extremism in Mindanao. In particular, the Bangsamoro government would be able to help moderate Islamic leaders to counter the ideology of radicalism being promoted by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and steer the Muslim community away from ISIS influence."*

From this global lens, the Philippine peace process on the Bangsamoro has earned the support of the international community for providing a model whereby an Islamic movement can find redress of its grievances through a civilized and democratic process, within the country’s territorial integrity and constitutional framework.

We are at the cusp of closing a major armed conflict that has divided our people for decades. But we cannot reach our destination without the goodwill and show of statesmanship from our leaders in the august halls of Congress, in whose hands the legislative power lies.

In particular, we beseech Speaker of the House Feliciano Belmonte, Jr.  and Senate President Franklin Drilon, as well as House Ad Hoc Committee Chair Rufus Rodriguez and Senate Local Governments Committtee Chair Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., to see through the legislative process leading to the passage of the law.

We ask you, our legislators, to open your hearts and to give our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters this one good chance to enjoy the right to peace, and partake of meaningful reforms and development.

In behalf of the Government and MILF Peace Panels,

Miriam Coronel Ferrer
Chair, GPH Panel

Mohagher Iqbal
Chair, MILF Panel

http://www.opapp.gov.ph/milf/news/open-letter-philippine-congress-government-and-milf-peace-panels

GPH, MILF peace panels urge Congress to ‘not lose time’ in passing BBL

From CNN Philippines (Nov 26): GPH, MILF peace panels urge Congress to ‘not lose time’ in passing BBL



Children draw peace murals outside Malacañan Palace after the conclusion of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro between the Philippine government and the MILF on March 27, 2014.

There is little time left, but there is still time.

The chief negotiators of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are sending this message to Congress in an appeal for the immediate passage of the draft law on the Bangsamoro.

They said this will not only bring peace to Mindanao but also prevent Islamic extremists from gaining ground among Muslim Filipinos who may be radicalized by the failure of the peace process.

“Time is of the essence, and opportunity knocks only once,” Miriam Coronel Ferrer of the government and Mohagher Iqbal of the MILF said in an open letter to legislators.

The letter was posted on the website of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) on Thursday (November 26).

Coronel and Iqbal said the BBL will decommission thousands of weapons and MILF combatants, allowing them to participate in peaceful elections.

Related: Expert doubts MILF combatants will disarm completely

The Muslim guerrillas waged “pure armed struggle” from 1972 to 1997, and then engaged in “political struggle” during the peace negotiations, which was capped by the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Passing the law now will allow them to proceed to the “democratic struggle” for their rights and aspirations “through civilized and democratic means,” according to the peace negotiators.

Related: Decommissioning is first step to real peace, not surrender – MILF

They said the Bangsamoro law removes flaws in the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which would be replaced by a more representative and responsive regional government.

Related: The price of peace: Where will the Bangsamoro funds go?

They added that the proposed law will benefit the next administration because it will no longer have to deal with a stalled peace process. The next Congress will also be able to focus on other pressing legislation without being burdened by new rounds of hearings on another Bangsamoro bill.

“Some say that the next administration and Congress will have more time,” they say. “Our fear is that it would have lost precious time too — precious time that could have closed the door to extreme, violent movements that recruit followers by exploiting the alienation of segments of the population from government and society at large.”

House Majority Floor Leader Neptali Gonzales has indicated that the 16th Congress might not be able to pass the bill, but suggested pursuing this after new representatives take office next year.

"It's important in so far as the aspiration of the government to have lasting peace in Mindanao," he told reporters on Wednesday (November 25).

He said that if the bill fails to get approval before the elections, it can still be pass in the 17th Congress "as long as the contracting parties have open minds" and the bill is certified urgent by the new president.

Citing statements last year from the National Security Council, the peace negotiators said that the peace settlement with the MILF would allow the country to shift the attention and resources of the military to external defense, mainly the protection of the national territory in the South China Sea.

The security council also said passing the BBL would help prevent the spread of extremism among Muslims, allow moderate Islamic leaders to counter radical ideology and steer Filipino Muslims away from influence of the Islamic State.

Related: Expert: 'Possibility of war' if Bangsamoro is derailed

“We are at the cusp of closing a major armed conflict that has divided our people for decades. But we cannot reach our destination without the goodwill and show of statesmanship from our leaders in the august halls of Congress, in whose hands the legislative power lies,” Coronel and Iqbal said.

http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/11/26/gph-milf-peace-panels-urge-congress-to-pass-bbl-soon.html

Mamasapano: Accused MILF say they’re civilians, not commanders

From Rappler (Nov 27): Mamasapano: Accused MILF say they’re civilians, not commanders

4 of 90 respondents appear before the justice department to insist they're not rebels  

 

JUSTICE SOUGHT. In this file photo, Philippine police commandos carry body bags containing the remains of their comrades killed in a clash with Muslim rebels in Mamasapano. File photo by AFP

The justice department on Friday, November 27, began its preliminary probe into the complaint against 90 rebels and members of private armies allegedly involved in the Mamasapano bloodbath that killed more than 60 people including policemen.

But of the 90 respondents directly implicated in the killing of 35 members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) in January 2015, only 4 appeared before the four-member panel led by Assistant State Prosecutor Alexander Suarez.

 

Lakman K. Dawaling and Pendadtun Utek Makakua, two of the 4 respondents present in Friday's hearing, denied that they were field commanders of the 118th Base Command of the rebel Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

 

(READ: Timeline: Mamasapano clash)

 

Dawaling, through his counsel Ronald Torres, submitted before the Department of Justice (DOJ) panel a certification signed by Abdulwahid Tondok of the MILF's 118th Base Command stating that he “is not a field commander of 118th Base Command and he is a civilian.”

 

“We have a copy of the certification from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front that this person [Dawaling]is indeed not a field commander, but a mere civilian. As a matter of fact, he was one of those who helped the PNP to rescue or to assist in the incident, taking of all those [bodies] and in the clearing operations,” Torres said.

 

Makakua's lawyer, Carlos Valdez Jr. said that his client signed an affidavit stating that he's not a commander of 118th Base Command, Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

 

“Makakua is a farmer. In accordance with his Comelec ID, as a voter, he's a farmer. And he [Makakua] only finished 6th grade, in accordance with his affidavit,” Valdez told reporters.

 

Another respondent, Mustapha Inggo Tatak, submitted a separate certification from the Department of the Interior and Local Government stating that he is the duly elected Punong Barangay of Barangay Sapakan in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

 

The DOJ panel handling the complaint gave the 90 respondents to submit their counter-affidavits when the preliminary probe resumes on December 17.

 

The Mamasapano clash became the worst crisis to hit the Aquino administration, as it was triggered by a secret operation supervised by then suspended National Police chief Alan Purisima. The target was alleged terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan, who was killed in the operation that claimed the biggest number of police casualties in recent history.

 

Those charged by the National Bureau of Investigation before the DOJ include 26 from the MILF, 12 from the breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Forces, and 52 who were either members of private armed groups (PAGs) or the Office of the Mayor of Mamasapano, or with no affiliation.

 

Of the implicated MILF members, 13 are supposedly battalion or field commanders, while among the charged BIFF members, 6 are supposedly commanders. The charged MILF members reportedly belong to the 105th and 118th Base Commands.

 

The charges only covered the killing of 35 members of the 55th Special Action Company. The investigators clarified that the complaints do not cover the death of the 9 SAF commandos of the 84th Seaborne Company, who killed Marwan in his hut in Barangay Pidsandawan in Mamasapano.

 

The NBI said the charge lodged against them was "complex" crime of direct assault with murder because there was treachery involved and abuse of superior strength, as shown by the suspects' shooting at close range even if the victims were already injured, dying or no longer had any means to defend themselves.

 

All the witnesses have been placed under the Witness Protection Program.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/114197-mamasapano-doj-accused-milf-denial

Indon national among 8 jihadists killed in Philippine clash: Army

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 28): Indon national among 8 jihadists killed in Philippine clash: Army

The Philippine Army has announced Friday that an Indonesian national was among 8 jihadists killed in fierce fighting with security forces in the restive southern region of Mindanao.

Captain Jo-ann Petinglay, a spokeswoman for the 6^th Infantry Division, identified the slain Indonesian jihadist as Ibrahim Ali, alias Abu Fattah and Hudzaifa.

She said Ali – a senior member of the Mujahideen Indonesian Timur – was previously arrested in Zamboanga City in 2005 for gun charges, but was freed by the court in 2013 and had since joined the “Anṣār al-Khilāfah” or “Supporters of the Caliphate” headed by Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, who pledged allegiance to ISIS in August 2014.

Anṣār al-Khilāfah also released a video threatening to deploy suicide bombers in the Philippines and make the country a “graveyard” for American soldiers.

Maguid, who was a key member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which signed a peace deal with Manila in 2014, escaped the fighting in Sultan Kudarat’s Palimbang town along with over 3 dozen followers. Maguid was believed wounded in the clash.

“Ali was first arrested in Zamboanga for illegal possession of firearms in 2005, but was released from detention in 2013 due to lack of merit of the case filed against him.

He had since been monitored to be with Maguid after his release, teaching bomb manufacturing among the followers of the said leader,” Petinglay said.

She said three of the dead were all Filipinos – Abdil Halil, Tatuh Sumail and Kira Sabiwang – and the others remain unidentified. She said troops and policemen tracked down the jihadists’ hideout after villagers tipped off authorities about the gunmen.

“The successful operation is a manifestation of the established good relationship of the military and police with the community, as information pertaining to the presence of the target and his supporters was volunteered by concerned citizens from the local community,” Petinglay said.

She said Major General Edmundo Pangilinan, the division commander, and Brigadier General Emmanuel Salamat, commander of the 1^st Marine Brigade, and the local police commanders coordinated the operation.

She said troops were tracking down Maguid – alias Tikboy – who was arrested in 2009 in Maasin town in Sarangani province in 2009, but escaped from his cell 7 months later.

“The target of the operation Mohamad Jaafar Sabiwang Maguid has four standing warrants of arrest and is involved in a series of atrocities and violence in the South Cotabato area since August 2008.”

“He was previously apprehended in 2009 by security forces in Maasim, Sarangani pprovince but he managed to escape from Bulantay Jail in Alabel town after seven months of imprisonment. He had been a fugitive for half a decade and was involved in more lawlessness in the different areas of the region since then,” Petinglay said.

The military said troops also recovered six ISIS flags, including a .50-caliber Barrett sniper rifle, an M16 automatic rifle, a .45-caliber pistol, assorted improvised explosives, radio communication sets, identification cards and various documents with intelligence value from the encounter site.

Anṣār al-Khilāfah was formed in Homs, Syria in January 2013 to overthrow President Bashar Hafez al-Assad and declare Sharia.

US troops are deployed in the southern Philippines since 2001 and assisting the government in fighting terrorism in the restive region of Mindanao.

Aside from Anṣār al-Khilāfah, the Abu Sayyaf group and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in the southern Philippines also pledged allegiance to ISIS and vowed to put up a strict Islamic state in Mindanao.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/indon-national-among-8-jihadists-killed-in-philippine-clash-army/

Sayyaf rebel linked to beheading of kidnapped Malaysian man captured in Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 28): Sayyaf rebel linked to beheading of kidnapped Malaysian man captured in Philippines

Police and military forces have captured Friday an Abu Sayyaf rebel whose group has been linked to the kidnappings of 2 Malaysians – one of them beheaded – and a Korean man in southern Philippines, officials said.

Security forces also captured two members – Menu Maganaka and Rex Bacana – of the rebel group Pentagon in Kabacan town in North Cotabato province and seized from them one automatic rifle and three .45-caliber pistols and 11 magazines.

Officials said Saddam Jailani, who is a follower of Abu Sayyaf leader Alhabsi Misaya, was nabbed in the Port of Jolo. Jailani is being held by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group of the Philippine National Police.

No other details were made available by authorities about Jailani, except his group was behind the grisly murder of Malaysian national Bernard Then, 39, who was kidnapped in Sandakan in May this year along with Thien Nyuk Fun, 50, who was freed by rebels.

The capture of Jailani came a day after troops seized 6 Abu Sayyaf automatic rifles in the village of Bonbon in Patikul town. Civilians tipped off the military about the weapons hidden by rebels under Radulan Sahiron.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyaf-rebel-linked-to-beheading-of-kidnapped-malaysian-man-captured-in-philippines/