Gunmen ambush police patrol in Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 5): Gunmen ambush police patrol in Philippines

Suspected rebels ambushed a police patrol, detonating a roadside bomb and then attacked lawmen with automatic weapons, injuring at least 2 in southern Philippines, the military said Saturday.

The attack late Friday sparked a 45-minute firefight in the town of Guindulungan in Maguindanao province in the volatile Muslim autonomous region.  The fighting only stopped after the gunmen fled for fear the clashes would attract more government reinforcement.

No individual or group claimed responsibility for the latest attack on security forces, but the military suspected that the ambush was carried out by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters who have been battling troops in the region since last month.

It was unknown whether any of the ambushers were killed or injured.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/gunmen-ambush-police-patrol-in-philippines/

Police convoy nearly hits landmine

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5): Police convoy nearly hits landmine

A police convoy narrowly missed an improvised explosive device (IED) that exploded along the national road of Barangay Mintac, Cataingan, Masbate on Thursday afternoon, a belated police report said Saturday.

The convoy led by Police Supt. Brian B. Castillo, deputy director for operations of the Masbate Police Provincial Office, was going back to Masbate City from Pio V. Corpuz town at about 1:23 p.m. when the incident occurred.

The police troop had just attended a turnover ceremony of a school building project donated by the Masbate Gold Project to Barangay Buenasuerte in Pio V. Corpus town.

The school building was built by the 565th Engineer Construction Battalion of the 51st Engineer Brigade of the Philippine Army.

The police provided security during the occasion.

No one was hurt during explosion but the left and front windshields of the police's Hilux patrol car were damaged.

Police and military elements immediately scoured the area to hunt down the perpetrators of the IED explosion.

The leadership of the Masbate Special Operations Task Force-Masbate condemned the attack using IED and immediately conducted an investigation into the incident.

It, however, could not say yet who were behind the afternoon IED explosion or whether it was related to the coming May 9 elections.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=863534

5 soldiers hurt in IED attack in Compostela Valley

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): 5 soldiers hurt in IED attack in Compostela Valley

Five soldiers from the 46th Infantry Battalion were hurt following a New People's Army (NPA) improvised explosive device (IED) attack in Mabini town, Compostela Valley early on Saturday morning.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division public affairs office chief, said the incident took place 12:45 a.m. at Sitios Logdeck and Candinuyan, Barangay Golden Valley.

He added troops were on road security patrols when the NPAs suddenly detonated an IED, wounding five troopers.

Four of the five soldiers were brought to Davao Regional Hospital while the other one was rushed to Camp Panacan Station Hospital.

The soldiers' identities are being withheld while their families are being informed of their conditions.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=863676

FA-50PHs to bid PAF chief goodbye on March 9

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): FA-50PHs to bid PAF chief goodbye on March 9

The country's first two FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" light-interim fighter aircraft will be bidding Philippine Air Force (PAF) commander Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado farewell as he is set to formally retire on Wednesday.

Delgado, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1982, will be relinquishing command of the 20,000-strong PAF after reaching the mandatory military retirement age of 56.

The FA-50PHs will flying over Fernando Air Base, Lipa City, Batangas along with the newly-acquired AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopters and W-3A "Sokol" combat utility choppers.

This was confirmed by PAF spokesperson Col. Enrico Canaya in a message to the PNA.

"It's a tradition in the PAF and a time where the Commanding General PAF reviews his troops and capability the last time before retirement," he said

"It's also an opportunity for pilots to gain proficiency in formation flying which they do without ceremonies in their designated training areas as programmed," Canaya further said.

Two of the country's first FA-50PH jet aircraft arrived at Clark Air Base, Angeles City, Pampanga last November 28.

These two are part of the 12-plane order from Korea Aerospace Industries which amounted to PHP18.9 billion.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=863687

Activities for 119th PA anniversary celebrations now ongoing

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): Activities for 119th PA anniversary celebrations now ongoing

Activities for the celebration of the 119th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army (PA) was formally started with a static capability display and information caravan at the Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City Saturday.

Army spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said the display showcases the PA's war fighting equipment, humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities and recruitment program.

Spectators are free to take photo souvenirs and get the feel of handling displayed Army equipment.

In addition, Hao said the PA will extend its anniversary celebration nationwide by conducting the Army Day Field Celebration in three major island of the country, the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao which will be facilitated by the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs with the support of its major units and various stakeholders.

The field day celebration activities includes the following; presentation of the Army transformation 119 years since its establishment through photo exhibits and static displays, recruitment of officers and enlisted personnel for 2016, and showcasing the government peace programs in collaboration with local government units and other stakeholders.

Hao said field day celebration in Luzon started Saturday at SM City Lucena under the supervision of the 2nd Infantry Division. It will end this Sunday.

While Army field day in Visayas will be held at Robinsons Mall in Tacloban City on March 11-12.

Celebration in Mindanao will be held at Gaisano Mall in Tagum City on March 12-13.

"The Army Field Day Celebration in three major islands of the country aims to expand the celebration of the 119th founding anniversary down to its troops on the ground," Hao stressed.

“Our troops on the ground and the general public must be informed on what the Philippine Army has achieved on its 119 years of existence. They must know how far the Philippine Army is, in its transformation efforts,” he added.

Other activities lined-up in celebration of the 119th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army includes the following: Philippine Army Marksmanship Assessment and Evaluation to be held at the Army’s Training and Doctrine Command in Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on March 7-14; Public Affairs Officers Forum to be held at Army Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig; free surgical mission to adult and children with cleft lip/palate at Army General Hospital on March 9-11; Regional Annual Administrative Tactical Inspection (RAATI) to ROTC units to be held here on March 13; Army Museum Open House on March 13-22; Fun Run and Media Fellowship Night on March 15; Tejeros Convention Ceremony at Tejeros, Cavite on March 16; Fellowship Dinner with Former Commanding General of the Philippine Army on March 17; wreath laying ceremony at Libingan ng mga Bayani on March 18; bloodletting activity at Army Grandstand on March 19; and the anniversary program on March 22 to be held in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The PA was established on March 22, 1897 at the Tejeros, San Francisco De Malabon, Cavite. Gen Artemio Ricarte was named Captain General of the Ejercito en la Republica delos Islas Filipinas or the Revolutionary Philippine Army.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=863688

DWDD: CAMP DEDICATION II Mayor Luis R. Biel II Camp

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 4): CAMP DEDICATION II Mayor Luis R. Biel II Camp

ISABELA, Basilan (DWDD) – The MAYOR LUIS R. BIEL II CAMP was formally dedicated in honor of the first Mayor of the City of Isabela, Basilan Province, Luis “Boboy” Biel II, on the occasion of his 10th death anniversary on March 3, 2016.

 





The former mayor allowed the free use of the five-hectare lot by the 104th Brigade, Philippine Army.

The 104th “Sultan” Brigade and the Juan S. Alano Lodge 137 of the Free Masons were responsible for the construction of the Mayor’s bust.

The camp’s dedication was held in the presence of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, DILG Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento, 104th Brigade commanders led by Col Rolly Bautista and their guests, and the relatives and friends of the Biel family led by Mrs. Delia B Biel. By Josephine Jaron Codilla

DWDD: TESTIMONIAL PARADE II Honoring MGen De Leon, BGen Sabarre and BGen Kakilala

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 4): TESTIMONIAL PARADE II Honoring MGen De Leon, BGen Sabarre and BGen Kakilala



FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City (DWDD) – The Philippine Army (PA) will be honoring three distinguished officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with a Testimonial Parade, namely: Major General Benito Antonio Templo de León , AFP; Brigadier General Henry G Sabarre, AFP; and  Brigadier General Joselito Kakilala, AFP at the Philippine Army Parade Grounds in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

MGen De Leon is the Inspector General of the AFP. A Roman Catholic but was conferred the rare Muslim-Maranao honorary title of Sultan a Romapunut for his peace efforts. He was the former commander of the Philippine Army 5th Infantry Division.

BGen Sabarre is the acting Commander of the 7^th Infantry Division based in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija. He was toe former Commander of the. 73^rd Infantry “Agila” Brigade, also under the 7ID.

BGen Kakilala si the 34^th Commander of the Civil Relatons Service, AFP; a member of the Philippine Military Class of 1984, and is set to retire this April. By AES / Photos by Felicia Longman, Rowie Adriatico and Princess Samiano-IDG.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/testimonial-parade-ii-honoring-mgen-de-leon-bgen-sabarre-and-bgen-kakilala/

DWDD: ON DANGEROUS GROUNDS II 6ID Continue Clearing fmr BIFF camp of IED

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 5): ON DANGEROUS GROUNDS II 6ID Continue Clearing fmr BIFF camp of IED

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Explosive Ordnance Division of the 6^th Infantry Division (6ID) is continuously searching, retrieving and/or exploding various Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) left by remnants of the bandit group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in their former stronghold in Maguindanao.



Last March 2, an explosion shooked Baranggay Te while Maj. Gen. Eduardo Pangilinan, Commander of the 6th ID, was about to oversee a symbolic flag raising ceremony signifying the governments retaking of the camp.

MGen Pangilinan stated that they have not yet completely cleared the area of IEDs planted by the retreating BIFF while a series of encounters were also reported.

He added that troops, their tanks and armoured personnel carriers were having difficulty in entering the barangays since it is surrounded by marshland, thus requiring soldiers to go on foot.

Removing IEDs also prove difficult thus forcing EOD personnel to blast it in place.

An estimated 40 IEDs were planted there by the BIFF and government troops are currently doing an operation to clear the barangay in the town of Datu Salibo of IEDs so that residents can return to their homes.

The small group of BIFF fighters, numbering from 20 to 30 men, were led by a certain Commander Abunawas and a Commander Bungos.

The operation has already cost the government the lives of four soldiers and wounding 20 in almost daily clashes since February 5. AES / MCAG Photo by 6DPAO

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/on-dangerous-grounds-ii-6id-continue-clearing-fmr-biff-camp-of-ied/

NDF: AFP desperate in using the dead body of a killer, robber, rapist, to tarnish the NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the NDF Website (Mar 4): AFP desperate in using the dead body of a killer, robber, rapist, to tarnish the NPA

The 4th ID PA, in desperation, has used the dead body of Cristituto Garcia which was exhumed by the 36th IB and the PNP, against the New People’s Army. Cristituto Garcia was a killer, robber and rapist in Barangay Ulip, Monkayo, Compostela Valley Province. He lived in Sityo Hinayhayan, Bacolod, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur in 2010.

This was done by the AFP to cover up its accountability in the killing of civilians and Lumad leaders in NEMR, and to tarnish the revolutionary movement through its psychological warfare or psywar.

Recall that last February 11, 2016, the AFP spread word that they found the buried dead body of Cristituto Garcia, 54 years old, allegedly a Manobo tribal-leader killed by the NPA, in Brgy. Purisima, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur.

For the information of the public, C. Garcia was not a Lumad Manobo in Cagwait but a Cebuano who grew up in Barangay Ulip, Monkayo, Compostela Valley Province. He moved to Cagwait with his family in 2010, because of the crimes he committed in their community.

The following were the crimes committed by C. Garcia:

1. 1996 – Killing of Antonio Maravilla, a Mandaya, in Sityo Ginasan, Upper Ulip, Monkayo. Reason for killing was merely an argument. An improvised gun was used in the killing.
2. 1998 – Robbery-murder of spouses Dodong Berano and Myrna Berano in Purok 7, Katipunan, Upper Ulip. Stolen from the victims was the amount of 80,000.00 pesos, earnings from selling copra and coffee. An improvised gun was used in the shooting of the spouses.
3. 1999 – Killing of Tong Indawa, a Mandaya, because of a dispute on land boundaries with the Indawa family. In fear, the remaining members of the Indawa family, were forced to move to Samal Island.
4. 2007 – C. Garcia raped three times a 13 year old child in Purok 5, Matangad , Upper Ulip. On the fourth rape attempt, he was seen by the victim’s neighbor who informed the parents. After the incident, the victim’s family was forced to transfer residence to Leyte after being threatened with murder if they file a case against him.
5. September 30, 2009 during the fiesta in Brgy. Ulip, Cristituto, Garcia killed his own father. Using a caliber .45 pistol, he shot and threw his father in the river. He killed his father because he was not given a share of the money earned from selling land. After the killing he ran away and went to Hinayhayan, Bacolod, Cagwait, to his relative.
6. September 2010, he robbed and killed Roberto Butod, a hunter, in Sitio Ginasan, Upper Ulip when Cristituto Garcia attended the fiesta of Brgy. Ulip. He stole from the victim the 6,000.00 pesos earning from selling boar. Roberto was just selling a boar in said area.
7. In the later part of 2010, C. Garcia shot and wounded Arman Alpapara in Barangay Ulip. Arman filed a case against him. C. Garcia ran back to Cagwait.

Even in Brgy. Bacolod, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur, Cristituto was tyrant, threatened to kill whoever farmer oppose the plans of the NCIP. This resulted from the foolhardiness of the NCIP of baptizing him as a Manobo Lumad-leader even if he was not a Lumad and was a new resident of the area. Aside from these, he was facing 6 murder cases, 2 robbery cases and rape, committed in the barrio where he came from.

Based on the crimes committed by Cristituto Garcia and under appropriate process, the Revolutionary People’s Court sentenced him the death penalty. This decision was implemented with his arrest last October 30, 2015 and subsequent punishment in November 1, 2015. The comrades buried his dead body. The 36th IB however, while on the psywar operations with the PNP in the area, exhumed the body to tarnish the revolutionary movement.

This shows that even if he has committed murder several times, was a robber and rapist, like the members of the Magahat, as long as he can be used by the AFP/PNP and reactionary US-Aquino regime for psychological warfare or psywar, he will be defended and used. This is a desperate step of the AFP to achieve their objective of annihilating the NPA-NEMR this year.

(sgd)
Ka Maria Malaya
Spokesperson
NDF-NEMR

http://www.ndfp.org/afp-desperate-using-dead-body-killer-robber-rapist-tarnish-npa/

5 soldiers, Cafgu hurt, as NPA offensives soar

From the often pro-CPP Davao Today (mar 5): 5 soldiers, Cafgu hurt, as NPA offensives soar

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division. (davaotoday.com file photo)

 

Five soldiers were reportedly hurt and a guerrilla fighter was killed in separate clashes between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the New People’s Army in Compostela Valley Province on Saturday, March 5.

 

This, as the NPA in Southern Mindanao said that since January this year, they engaged the Army, Philippine National Police and paramilitary troops “39 times”.

The Army’s 10^th Infantry Division on Saturday said five soldiers were hurt after the NPAs exploded an improvised bomb in Mabini town around 12:45 midnight Saturday.

The soldiers of the 46^th Infantry Battalion were hit along Sitios Logdeck and Candinuyan, Barangay Golden Valley of Mabini.

The Army said four of the five injured soldiers were brought to Davao Regional Hospital, while the other one was evacuated to Camp Panacan Station Hospital.

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the Army said they are still withholding the soldiers’  identities while the families are being contacted.

‘Failure’ of counter-insurgency ops

Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA Regional Operations Command in a statement dated March 1, posted 79 soldiers as  the “enemy’s casualty toll”.

“Forty four of them were killed in action, including an Army Lieutenant and a sergeant. This, despite the enemy’s deployment of, and sustained and vicious military operations in the whole region by at least 13 regular Army battalions, three Division Reconnaissance companies, and a number of Scout Ranger companies and paramilitary formations,” said Sanchez.

He said the 39 tactical offensives in a period of eight weeks in the “most militarized region” in the country, “showcased the defeat of Oplan Bayanihan”.

Meanwhile, Batchar said an NPA was killed and a CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) was hurt after the combined elements of 60th Infantry Battalion and CAAs of Delta Company, 72nd Infantry Battalion engaged in an armed encounter the NPAs in Laak, Compostela Valley Province around 7:00 Saturday, March 5.

The Army official said the wounded CAA was immediately brought to Metro Davao Medical Research Center (MDRMC) while the dead body of the unidentified NPA is at Camp Panacan after being airlifted from the encounter site.

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/5-soldiers-cafgu-hurt-as-npa-offensives-soar/

2 cops hurt in Maguindanao ambush

From ABS-CBN (Mar 5): 2 cops hurt in Maguindanao ambush

MAGUINDANAO - Two policemen were wounded Friday when their vehicle was ambushed by unidentified armed men in Barangay Bagan, Guindulungan town in this province.

The Guindulungan police were patrolling the area at around 9 p.m. when a homemade bomb exploded just 10 meters away from a road they passed.

Police had just alighted from their patrol jeep when the suspects opened fire on them.

Another improvised explosion device, located 25 meters away from the first bomb, also went off within a few minutes.

The firefight between the police and suspects lasted for about 40 minutes.

Major General Edmundo Pangilinan of the 6th Infantry Division is convinced that the attack was part of the diversionary tactics of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) amid ongoing clearing operations in the neighboring Datu Salibo town.

Police continue investigating the incident.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/03/05/16/2-cops-hurt-in-maguindanao-ambush

5 soldiers hurt in IED blast in Maguindanao

From ABS-CBN (Mar 5): 5 soldiers hurt in IED blast in Maguindanao

MAGUINDANAO - Another improvised explosive device (IED) went off in the conflict-ridden Barangay Tee in Datu Salibo town on Saturday morning.

Captain Jo-ann Petinglay, the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the soldiers from the Division Reconnaissance Company were conducting a clearing operation at Sitio Simsiman when one of the soldiers stepped on a pressure-type IED.

The wounded soldiers were immediately evacuated by the use of airboats.

Major General Edmundo Pangilinan, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, awarded earlier Saturday morning the soldiers who got injured in the operations in Datu Salibo.

READ: Military begins removing explosives in abandoned BIFF lair

As of posting, the number of wounded soldiers in the continuing operations has climbed to 30 and 80% of these are casualties brought about by landmines believed to be planted by fleeing members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/03/05/16/5-soldiers-hurt-in-ied-blast-in-maguindanao

One of 2 suspects denies involvement in Saudi cleric's attack

From GMA News (Mar 5): One of 2 suspects denies involvement in Saudi cleric's attack

One of the two suspects detained after the shooting of a popular Saudi cleric and a Saudi diplomat in Zamboanga City denied his involvement in the incident.

In a report by Marisol Abdurahman on Balitanghali on Saturday, Mujer Abubakar said he had no hand in the shooting, and that he was also shocked by the attack.

"Nag-panic ako... 'Di ako nakagalaw," Abubakar said.

Abubakar and another suspect, Junaide Cadir,  were charged with two counts of frustrated murder and attempted murder for the shooting of cleric and author Dr. Aidh bin Abdullah Al-Qarni and diplomat Sheikh Turki Assaegh on March 2.

The victims' attacker identified as Rugasan Misuari III, was killed by local policemen providing security for Al-Qarni.

Al-Qarni and Assaegh had just attended a forum at the Western Mindanao State University and were already in their vehicle when they were repeatedly shot by Misuari on Tuesday.

The two victims have been declared out of harm after undergoing surgery.

Senior Inspector Helen Galvez, spokesperson of the Zamboanga City Police Office, said that the charges were filed against the two suspects were backed by testimonies by several witnesses.

"Dun sa mga testimony na binigay satin ng ating mga witnesses nagsasbai na ito ngang dalawa na nahuli natin ay kasama po ng gunman, at nakita po sila kasama, naguusap before. And nandun din sila during the incident and biglang nagtangkang tumakas," Galvez said.

Galvez added that the police are reviewing the video of the shooting that went viral on social media.

They have not yet identified the motive behind the attack.

There are claims that the attack may be linked with the jihadist Islamic State because al-Qarni is on its hit list.

Members of the Muslim community staged a protest in Metro Manila condemning the attack and calling for justice.

"Kami po ay nananawagan sa ating mahal na pangulo na sana mabigyan ng maagang justice. Itoy' pumunta rito sa pilipinas upang  hikatin ang ating mga kapatid na muslim na magbalik loob sila," one of the protesters said.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/557923/news/regions/one-of-2-suspects-denies-involvement-in-saudi-cleric-s-attack

MNLF fighter killed Abu Sayyaf member in Sulu ambush —police

From GMA News (Mar 5): MNLF fighter killed Abu Sayyaf member in Sulu ambush —police

A member of the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group was killed on Friday in an ambush staged by a Moro National Liberation Front fighter in Indanan town in Sulu, local police said.

Citing initial information, the Indanan Police identified that fatality as Darwin Abduhadi.

A police investigation showed that MNLF fighter Dungan Hamdani ambushed Abduhadi and two other companions in Sitio Talibang, Barangay Buanza at about 7:45 a.m.

Abduhadi was killed on the spot while Hamdani was slightly injured in the clash.

Police said Abduhadi's companions were able to fire back at Hamdani, who manged to escape from retaliatory attack.

According to the police, personal grudge could be the motive for the ambush.

Last February 19, Hamdani's group clashed with Abduhadi's, also in Barangay Buanza.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/archives/news/regions

Navy gunboat rescues 8 after boat capsizes in Capiz

From GMA News (Mar 5): Navy gunboat rescues 8 after boat capsizes in Capiz

 

Video
Navforcen PN
3 hours ago

Culasi Port, Roxas City Capiz - On or about 03 March 2016, 10AM Philippine Navy vessel Patrol Gunboat 371 (PG371) BRP ENRIQUE JURADO ,under the command of Lieutenant Commander Ignacio M Umali Jr rescue capsized motor banca JOHNDELMAR together with its crew and passengers with three (3) females and five (5) males. The survivor were given first aid, food,dry clothes and was able to tow capsized banca to the pier. Said crews was turned-over immediately to NDRRMC Capiz in order to give appropriate medical check-up and subsequently turn-over to PCG Roxas Station for proper disposition. Hooooyah!

 

A Philippine Navy patrol rescued eight passengers and crewmen of a motorized outrigger that capsized in waters off the Culasi port in Capiz on Saturday morning.

 

A report posted on the social media account of the Cebu-based Naval Forces Central said the passengers and crew of M/B Johndelmar were rescued at around 10 a.m. by navy sailors manning the patrol gunboat BRP Enrique Jurado.

 

It was not indicated why the vessel capsized, but footage taken of the rescue operations shows the boat submerged in water. 

 

"The survivor were given first aid, food,dry clothes and was able to tow capsized banca to the pier. Said crews was turned-over immediately to NDRRMC Capiz in order to give appropriate medical check-up and subsequently turn-over to PCG Roxas Station for proper disposition," the report read.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/557942/news/regions/navy-gunboat-rescues-8-after-boat-capsizes-in-capiz

 

 

 

LOOK: US supercarrier, destroyers operate in West Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Mar 5): LOOK: US supercarrier, destroyers operate in West Philippine Sea

The John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG) under United States Navy Great Green Fleet is conducting routine patrol operations in West Philippine Sea. JCSSG consists of Nimitz-class supercarrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 embarked, guided-missile destroyers USS Stockdale (DDG 106), USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110), and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53).

“The ships transited the Luzon Strait March 1 and have maintained a location in the eastern half of these international waters for four days,” the US Navy said.

“We have Chinese ships around us that we normally didn’t see in my past experience,” said Capt. Greg Huffman, Stennis’ commanding officer. “Everything I have heard over bridge-to-bridge channels has been good communications between professional mariners.”

The Great Green Fleet (GGF) is a year-long initiative demonstrating Navy’s efforts to transform its energy use. JCSSG is the centerpiece of the said American fleet. The strike group is using energy efficiency measures, to include technologies and operational procedures, and alternative fuel in the course of its normal operations.

CVN 74 participates in a replenishment at sea with USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7) and CG 53 in West Philippine Sea, March 4. US Navy photo

http://www.update.ph/2016/03/look-us-supercarrier-destroyers-operate-in-west-philippine-sea/3043

Chinese warship spotted shadowing US strike group in West Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Mar 5): Chinese warship spotted shadowing US strike group in West Philippine Sea

A Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessel was spotted shadowing the United States Navy John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG) in West Philippine Sea. The said American strike group is currently on patrol in international waters within US Navy 7th Fleet Area of Operations.

“The [JCSSG] ships transited the Luzon Strait March 1 and have maintained a location in the eastern half of these international waters for four days,” the US Navy said.

“We have Chinese ships around us that we normally didn’t see in my past experience,” said Stennis’ commanding officer Captain Greg Huffman who was previously deployed in the said waters in 2007.

“Everything I have heard over bridge-to-bridge channels has been good communications between professional mariners,” he added.

The John C. Stennis Strike Group is composed of Nimitz-class supercarrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 embarked, guided-missile destroyers USS Stockdale (DDG 106), USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110), and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53).

An MH-60S Seahawk assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, currently embarked aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), conducts routine flight operations. A People’s Liberation Army (Navy) vessel is seen shadowing Stennis strike group during patrol in West Philippine Sea. March 4. US Navy photo

JCSSG is the centerpiece of Great Green Fleet (GGF), an effort to transform energy use. The strike group is using energy efficiency measures, to include technologies and operational procedures, and alternative fuel in the course of its normal operations.

 http://www.update.ph/2016/03/chinese-warship-spotted-shadowing-us-strike-group-in-west-philippine-sea/3050

IN PHOTOS: US warplanes operate in West Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Mar 5): IN PHOTOS: US warplanes operate in West Philippine Sea

The Unites States Navy John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG) is conducting routine patrol in US Navy 7th Fleet Area of Operations (AOR) and is currently in West Philippine Sea.

The strike group – composed of a supercarrier, two guided-missile destroyers, and one guided-missile cruiser – transited the Luzon Strait March 1 and have maintained a location in the eastern half of these international waters for four days/

On Friday, March 4 several aircraft of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 embarked the Nimitz-class supercarrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) have conducted routine air operations.

The said air wing has under its command several fighter, electronic warfare, and early warning aircraft squadrons; and helicopter squadrons.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 launches from USS John C. Stennis. US Navy photo

An E/A-18G Growler assigned to the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 launches from USS John C. Stennis. US Navy photo

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 launches from USS John C. Stennis. March 4. US Navy photo.

http://www.update.ph/2016/03/in-photos-us-warplanes-operate-in-west-philippine-sea/3059

'Be circumspect,' AFP tells media amid China 'takeover'

From Rappler (Mar 4): 'Be circumspect,' AFP tells media amid China 'takeover'

The Philippine military denies reports that China ‘has effectively taken over Quirino Atoll’ in the disputed West Philippine Sea



HANDS OFF. Filipino students stage a protest against China's aggression in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) in Manila, Philippines, on March 3, 2016. Photo by Mark Cristino/EPA

The Philippine military is reminding the media to “be circumspect” in news reporting after China’s supposed “takeover” of Quirino Atoll in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) made headlines this week.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) urged the media “to be circumspect in their reporting so as not to create unnecessary public alarm.”

 

“To say that China has effectively taken over Quirino Atoll is not accurate and not true. While Chinese vessels have been sighted on and off the area, Filipino fishing vessels are monitored conducting economic activities unhampered,” the AFP said.

 

The AFP also said it has not received any report from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Philippine Coast Guard, or any Filipino fishing company “that our fishermen are being harassed and/or being driven away” from Quirino Atoll.

 

Even Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario denied the reported takeover.

 

“We are monitoring the situation on the ground. According to reports, they are not there today so the theory about occupation may not be accurate because if they are occupying they should be there,” Del Rosario was quoted as saying by GMA News.

 

'Exercise self-restraint,' China told

 

This comes after the Philippine Star on Tuesday, March 2, published a report titled, “China takes Philippine atoll.”

 

The Star reported, “The Chinese have taken over another traditional Filipino fishing ground near Palawan where they have stationed up to five ships to keep local fishermen at bay, sources said.”

 

Other news outlets published stories based on, or in reaction to, this newspaper report.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), for its part, clarified that “there are no more sightings of Chinese vessels” in Quirino Atoll as of Wednesday.

 

The DFA said it “is monitoring reports on the situation on the ground and reiterates its call for China to exercise self-restraint from the conduct of activities that could complicate or escalate disputes in the South China Sea, and affect peace and stability in the region.”

 

China is claiming almost the entire South China Sea despite competing claims from neighboring countries, including Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

 

In a historic move, Manila filed a case against China before a United Nations-backed tribunal to resolve this maritime dispute.

 

The Philippines expects the tribunal to rule on this case early this year.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/124678-afp-media-china-takeover-quirino-atoll

ISIS supporting local terrorist groups? Not true, says Malacañang

From Rappler (Mar 5): ISIS supporting local terrorist groups? Not true, says Malacañang

Malacañang stands by the statement of the Armed Forces, denying the link between local terrorist groups and ISIS



ISIS IN PH? Malacanang says there are no verified reports that ISIS is supporting local terror groups in the Philippines.

Despite the recent attacks in Mindanao of local terrorists claiming links with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS, IS, ISIL, or Da'esch), Malacañang continued to downplay claims of the jihadist group's presence in the Philippines.

In an interview on Saturday, March 5, over radio dzRB, Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III, head of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office, said Malacañang stands by the statement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denying the presence of ISIS in the country.

 

"According to [AFP spokesman] Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, there are no verified reports that local terrorist groups are getting support from ISIS," Quezon said.

 

He added: "This has not been established, and he said there’s no direct relation between the group here and the bigger terror group in the Middle East...It is the job of the Armed Forces to determine these things. The Armed Forces has proven its capacity in the past and we believe that theirs is an accurate assessment."

 

The military previously dismissed claims that ISIS may soon declare a wilayat or province in the southern Philippines. A video released in February showed the terror group officially recognizing a number of jihadist groups in the Philippines, while the Moro Islamic Liberation Front earlier said that ISIS was recruiting members in at least 3 provinces in Central Mindanao.

 

Since February, gun battles have been raging in Lanao del Sur, with the military mounting offensives against an ISIS-inspired militant group.

 

On March 1, government troops regained control of Butig town in Lanao del Sur following a 10-day offensive that left 24 rebels and 3 soldiers dead and thousands of families displaced.

 

Philippine authorities are also investigating the March 1 assassination attempt on a prominent Saudi cleric who was on the hit list of ISIS.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/124750-isis-support-local-terrorist-groups-philippines-denial

BIFF roadside bomb hurts 2 Maguindanao cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5): BIFF roadside bomb hurts 2 Maguindanao cops

Two police officers were hurt when a roadside bomb exploded along the national highway here Friday night, the Army said.

Capt. Joann Petinglay, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson, said injured by shrapnel were PO2 Abdurahman Lampak and PO3 Modarie Salibo, both of Guindulungan PNP.

The injured policemen were with other members of Guindulungan PNP on board a Mahindra patrol car, led by PO3 Saiden Guiamad were patrolling the highway in Sitio Sawmill, Barangay Bagan, Guindulungan when the blast occurred at 9 p.m..

After the blast, the police officers were shot by still unidentified gunmen, triggering a 40-minute firefight, according to Colonel Warlito Limet. The suspects fled under cover of darkness.

Responding elements of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry battalion forced the attackers to flee.

Petinglay said bomb experts recovered fragments of rifle grenade, cut nails, and broken mobile phones which served as triggering device.

The bomb was similar to other improvised explosive devices (IEDs) manufactured and disposed by BIFF as diversionary tactic due to intensified police and military operations against them in nearby Datu Salibo town, also in Maguindanao.

Police and military authorities believed the IED was planted by remnants of outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

Manhunt has been on going against the perpetrators.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=863509

PAF's sole weather aircraft up for maintenance

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5): PAF's sole weather aircraft up for maintenance

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is allocating PHP1.3 million for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of its sole Cessna LC-210 weather aircraft.

Bid opening is scheduled for March 9, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

Prospective bidders should have an experience in a similar project within the last five years.

The LC-210 is operated and maintained by the 900th Air Force Weather Group based in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

The LC-210 can only be flown by a single pilot but can carry five passengers while reaching a maximum speed of 204 knots (235 mph or 378 km/h) at a height of 17,000 ft (5,200 m).

The LC-210 is primarily used for cloud-seeding operations, a form of weather modification, done by dispersing substances into the air that serve as cloud condensation or ice nuclei, which alter the microphysical processes within the cloud.

The usual intent is to increase precipitation. The most common chemicals used for cloud seeding include silver iodide, potassium iodide and dry ice (solid carbon dioxide). Liquid propane, which expands into a gas, has also been used.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=863529

Rebel killed, militiaman wounded in Compostela Valley clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5): Rebel killed, militiaman wounded in Compostela Valley clash

A New People's Army (NPA) fighter was killed while a militiaman was wounded as troopers from the combined 60th and 72nd Infantry Battalions clashed with rebels anew in Laak town, Compostela Saturday morning.

The encounter took place 7 a.m. at Sitio Agsam, Barangay Ampunan, said 10th Infantry Division public affairs office chief Capt. Rhyan Batchar.

Troops were checking on the reported NPA presence in the area when fired upon by the rebels who were led by one "Macatindog".

And in the ensuing 30-minute firefight, a still unidentified NPA fighter was killed and a M-14 rifle captured, prompting the rebels to retreat.

Batchar said a militiaman was wounded in the encounter. He added that the latter was being treated at the Metro Davao Medical Research Center.

Pursuit operations are still ongoing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=863605

Palace affirms military assessment on presence of ISIS in the PHL

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 5): Palace affirms military assessment on presence of ISIS in the PHL

Malacanang said it is standing by the statement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that there is no presence of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Mindanao despite the recent flare up of violence in the region in previous weeks.

There were reports quoting security analysts mentioning about growing ISIS' presence in the country.

Countering those reports, Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III on Saturday said in a radio interview: "Ayon kay General (Restituto) Padilla, there are no verified reports that local terrorists groups are getting support from the Islamic State."

"Sinabi nga ni General Padilla: 'Based on information at hand, there’s no presence of Daesh.'

"This has not been established; and that he said there’s no direct relation between the group here and the bigger terror group in the Middle East," he told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

The job of the Armed Forces is to determine these security matters that concern the safety of the Filipino public.

The Armed Forces has proven its capacity in the past and the Palace believes that its assessment is correct, Quezon added.

The military reported this week that it has already taken control of the camp of the armed group Maute in Butig, Lanao del Sur after days of intense offensive.

The report said government troops overran the main camp of the armed group in Barangay Poktan, where the houses of Maute leaders, brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute, were located.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=863619