2 generals seek probe of Basilan carnage

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 12): 2 generals seek probe of Basilan carnage



FATHER’S LOVE Ruben Monte with the coffin of his son, Pfc. John Monte of Salong, Baroi, Lanao del Norte province, one of the 18 soldiers killed in Basilan province. JULIE S. ALIPALA/INQUIRER MINDANAO
FAMILIES of the 18 slain soldiers seeking justice and asking for details on how they died were told not to talk to journalists even as two generals demanded a military investigation into the carnage, the Inquirer learned Monday.

Military authorities declined to discuss with reporters details of the 10-hour encounter with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Tipo-Tipo on Basilan on Saturday in which 52 other soldiers were wounded.

“We want justice. It is difficult for us to speak right now, but we have many questions on our minds. Right now, all I can say is we want justice,” said Lady Labial, wife of slain Cpl. Dionesio Labial from Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.

“I have lost my voice from crying,” said Inday Monte, whose eldest son, Pfc. John Monte  died in the worst incident to hit the security services since 44 Special Action Force troopers were massacred in Mamasapano, Maguindanao province, on Jan. 25 last year.

Monte and her husband Ruben traveled from Baroy in Lanao del Norte, 12 hours away over land, to find out what had happened in Tipo-Tipo. “There were so many deaths. I came here to see so many deaths.”

Inday said as she tried to control her emotions so as not to get the attention of the soldiers watching them at St. Peter Funeral Home in Zamboanga City, where eight of the dead remained as of Monday. She said they were not allowed to speak to journalists.

“This is my first time to set foot in Zamboanga. First and maybe last. I am here to bring my son back home,” she said.

13 Abu Sayyaf men killed

Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said troops had killed 13 Abu Sayyaf bandits in military operations in the same area in Tipo-Tipo where 150 of the insurgents sprang the ambush on the soldiers, most of them belonging to the 44th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, on Saturday.

“We have not stopped in our operations to pursue the Abu Sayyaf,” Padilla said in a news briefing at the AFP headquarters. He said the offensive started on Sunday morning.

Padilla announced that flags in all military camps would be flown at half-mast for a week “to mourn the deaths of our soldiers, our heroes who offered the ultimate sacrifice.”

On Sunday, AFP chief of staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri, Army chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin flew to Zamboanga City to visit the wounded and condole with the families of the dead, who were all from Mindanao, except for one whose body was flown to Isabela province Monday.

The Philippine National Police issued a statement expressing condolences and honoring “true heroes who offered the supreme sacrifice so that Filipinos will continue to live in peace.”

Heads should roll

Two ranking military officials said the AFP should conduct an inquiry into the Tipo-Tipo ambush.

“What happened was a failure of leadership from top to bottom for lack of experience, failure of intelligence and failure of realistic planning to include intelligent mission planning,” said a general, who asked not to be named. He said the brigade up to the Western Mindanao Command should be held liable.

Another general said heads should roll. He said Maj. Gen. Mayoralgo del Cruz, the regional military chief, was  micromanaging the operations at the expense of soldiers’ lives. “He planned it. He even went to the battalion headquarters before the troops jumped off. This is super micromanagement, a three-star general wanting to do the 2nd Lieutenant’s job,” the officer said.

Iriberri, in an interview on Sunday in Zamboanga, said that it was too early to call for a probe. “As we speak, an operation is ongoing in Basilan,” he said.

In an interview at the funeral home, Jennylyn Alani, wife of Cpl. Jayson Alani of La Piedad, Isabela City, said her husband called her up on Friday night.

“He told me to take care of our children and that I should not miss eating. I even told him that he was giving me the creeps because it was like he was saying goodbye,” Jennylyn said.

Jennylyn said her husband was on a break for a week, but was recalled on April 4. “He received a call that they must all report at once,” she said. The 44th Infantry Battalion arrived in Basilan last week.

Jennylyn said she wanted to know what really happened. She said her husband called her on Friday night, informing her that they would be moving to Tipo-Tipo on Saturday morning. She learned of her husband’s death at 9 p.m. Saturday. No one, however, briefed her about what happened.

Military honors awaited

Gemma Alani,  younger sister of Cpl. Jayson Alani, told the Inquirer, “We will only be at peace if we know what really happened.” She said it took
24 hours before the family was able to see her brother’s body. She said military officials told them they should not talk to journalists until the remains of the soldiers had reached their hometowns.

“Where are the military honors? It would have been good for us to see our brother and his comrades given honors. Why  would they want to keep our emotions down?” Gemma asked.

She said many families had rushed to St. Peter Funeral Home on  Sunday morning but were told to wait as bodies were still being recovered from the encounter site.

Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said that a dedicated military honor ceremony will be given to fallen soldiers.  “They are being taken care of by their mother unit, the 1st Infantry Division,” Tan said.

The mother of 1st Lt. Remigio Licenia urged the government to pursue the killers of her 28-year-old son, who was a teacher at the Rang-ayan National High School in Ilagan City, Isabela, before joining the army.

“We condemn the killing of my son and the soldiers who had been serving the people. They must pay,” said Maria Clara Bundoc-Licenia.  Her son’s body arrived at nearby Gamu town in Isabela Monday.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/779096/2-generals-seek-probe-of-basilan-carnage

Philippines military on the defensive after bloody clash

From the Kuwait Times (Apr 11): Philippines military on the defensive after bloody clash

SAN JOSE: Philippine Marines take positions during a beach landing as part of the 11-day “Balikatan” (shoulder-to-shoulder) annual joint US and Philippine military exercises at San Jose airport in Antique province in the central Philippines yesterday. US and Philippine troops began major exercises on April 4 as China’s state media warned “outsiders” against interfering in tense South China Sea territorial disputes. — AFP

 

The Philippines army defended its operations yesterday after 18 soldiers were killed and more than 50 wounded in a jungle ambush by militants in the south of the country who have pledged allegiance to Islamic State. Security experts and some media criticized the handling of Saturday’s encounter with the Abu Sayyaf rebels, which had echoes of a grisly 2011 clash when 19 troops died – some beheaded – and another last year when 44 police commandos were slain.

 

“It’s deja vu. The government forces underestimated the rebels’ firepower capability and ties with other lawless groups on Basilan,” said security analyst Rommel Banlaoi, referring to the southern island where the clash raged for 10 hours.

 

Military spokesman Brigadier-General Restituto Padilla said the troops had been adequately trained and the operation had been well coordinated, but they had been lured into a trap of improvised landmines that could not have been anticipated.

 

 “The situation on the ground is much different from how these armchair generals and analysts saw it. They tend to magnify this unfortunate incident when the army has had many successes.”

 

Padilla said eight Abu Sayyaf rebel bodies were found on Sunday, bringing to 13 the number of dead on the rebels side, including a Moroccan national. Describing the incident, he said the military had pounded the Abu Sayyaf camp on the island with bombs and artillery shells before sending in ground troops. “When they got in there, there were explosions around them, the place was booby-trapped and they were pinned down and the rebels were firing at them at all sides,” he said.

 

Padilla said that, as well as the army, the government had a role to play in stamping out militancy in the south of the country through development and providing social services. The small but violent Abu Sayyaf group, which is known for extortion, kidnappings, beheadings and bombings, is one of several brutal Muslim rebel factions in the impoverished south of the largely Christian Philippines. The group has posted videos on social media sites pledging allegiance to Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria, which have attracted foreign fighters from Southeast Asia, the Middle East and North Africa to the troubled southern Philippines.

 

The army stepped up its offensive against Abu Sayyaf late last year, when President Benigno Aquino ordered troops to hunt down the rebels over the kidnapping and execution of foreign nationals. The Philippines military has had years of US counter-terrorism training, although American troops have no direct role in the offensive against Abu Sayyaf.

 

“It’s not simply a matter of training,” said Ric Jacobson, a US security expert. “If the leadership and preparations are not solid, then these operations are destined for failure, no matter how well-trained the troops.”

 

The incident has not prompted criticism from candidates vying for the Philippines’ presidency in next month’s election. But a tough talking mayor from a southern city, who has vowed to end corruption and crime, has topped the latest opinion poll and is the front-runner for the May 9 election. The opinion poll was conducted March 30-April 2, before the fighting on Basilan. Vice-presidential candidates agreed in a debate on Sunday that there could be no negotiations with Abu Sayyaf and that, while they favor a military solution, poverty and social issues in the south of the country needed to be addressed.- Reuters

Abu Sayyaf ransom deadline hasn't passed, govt insists

From the Jakarta Post (Apr 12): Abu Sayyaf ransom deadline hasn't passed, govt insists

The government has denounced rumors that the Abu Sayyaf terror group set a ransom deadline of April 8 as "false information", amid efforts to free 10 Indonesian sailors kidnapped by the group.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Arrmanatha Nasir said the purported deadline, which fell on Friday last week, had been invented by the media, and that the government had never mentioned any specific date.

"We don't know where that date came from. Our focus is on getting the hostages released ASAP,"  he told reporters in Jakarta on Monday.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi reiterated that the Philippine and Indonesia governments were continuing to conduct intense communication and coordination.

In the wake of a deadly battle between Philippine troops and Abu Sayyaf extremists on Saturday, Retno conveyed her "concern, sympathy and condolences" to that nation,
while stressing that she was in constant communication with her Philippine counterpart.

Philippine officials reported that 18 soldiers had been killed and 53 others wounded in a day-long encounter with the militants. The fighting in the neighboring towns of Tipo Tipo and Al-Barka on Basilan Island also left five militants dead, including one Moroccan.

Retno added that paperwork related to the Anand 12 barge, which is currently being held by Malaysian authorities after it was found in the waters off Lahad Datu in Sabah state, was still being processed.

The Anand 12 was one of two Indonesian-flagged vessels manned by the 10 Indonesian crewmen kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf group, which has demanded a payment 15 billion (US$1.14 million) in return for the hostages' release.

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2016/04/12/abu-sayyaf-ransom-deadline-hasnt-passed-govt-insists.html

Strong wind causes Army skydiver to fall on tiled pool side

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): Strong wind causes Army skydiver to fall on tiled pool side

A member of the Army Skydiving Team broke his left arm and suffered body injuries after he dived on the concrete pool side instead of the oval field during the opening Sunday afternoon of the Palarong Pambansa 2016 at the Bicol University compound.

Rushed to the nearby Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital was Staff Sgt. Alfred Lucas of the 9th Division of the Philippine Army based in Pili, Camarines Sur.

Lucas was part of the four-man team that was supposed to go down via parachute during the grand opening of the Palarong Pambansa at about 4 p.m. at the Albay Provincial Sports Complex inside the Bicol University Compound University.

While his three other companions successfully landed, Lucas' parachute was carried by strong wind to the concrete edge of the swimming pool behind the old grandstand, fracturing his left hand.

He then fell into the pool, which could have claimed his life had rescuers fail to save him on time.

Staff Sgt. Napoleon Sevilla of the Philippine Army Special Operational Command blamed the strong wind for Lucas' failure to land on the oval track.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=875339

Military denies cancelling military honors for troops killed in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 12): Military denies cancelling military honors for troops killed in Basilan

The Philippine Army has denied reports it has cancelled military honors for the troops killed in clash against Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan last April 9.

"Please be informed that the Philippine Army denies it. Our instruction is to give full honors to all those who were killed in action in Basilan, especially funeral honors, vigil, the arrival and departure honors," Army spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said.

"We understand that there were Muslim soldiers that were immediately buried based on their culture and practices, but for the rest, we will give them honors because they deserve it," he added.

Of the 18 fallen troopers, 13 were Christians while five were Muslims.

Another 53 were wounded in the almost 10-hour fighting.

Hao said giving appropriate military honors is the least the Army can do for the men who fought gallantly for the country.

Initial benefits to be received by families of the slain troopers include six months worth of payment depending on their salary grades; PHP50,000 worth cash assistance coming from their Mutual Benefits Association, Inc.; scholarships for their children; and another PHP100,000 coming from various organizations.

Soldiers wounded slightly in the battle will receive PHP50,000 while those critically hurt will get PHP100,000.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=875418

ASG leader in critical condition; intensified ops in Basilan–AFP

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 11): ASG leader in critical condition; intensified ops in Basilan–AFP
Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf group (ASG) leader Furuji Indama is in critical condition following an encounter with Army soldiers that also led to the death of 18 government forces and at least 50 wounded, the military said.

Major Filemon Tan, spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said on Monday that based on intel reports, Indama was critically wounded and eight more Abu Sayyaf members were killed after the Saturday fighting that left five militants dead, which included foreign terrorist Mohammad Khattab.

READ: Over 100 ASG bandits fought in Basilan clash

Indama has a multi-million bounty on his head and has been blamed for cases of murder and kidnapping.

Of the 20 wounded Abu Sayyaf members on Saturday, four died and another four were killed on Sunday’s intensified operations.

After the daylong gunbattle on Saturday that left the government with heavy casualties, Tan said the Armed Forces of the Philippines on Sunday has deployed six battalions, doubling its brigade-size force to go after Indama and Isnilon Hapilon, one of the Abu Sayyaf’s senior leaders.

Hapilon’s son, Amah, was also wounded (not Ubaida as earlier reported) from Saturday’s gunbattle.

Saturday’s fighting in Brgy. Baguindan in Tipo-Tipo was the biggest combat loss for the government in a single day this year. AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the operations were long planned and was part of their continuing efforts to go after the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan.

“It just happened that the 44th Infantry Battalion encountered the Abu Sayyaf in an area where they are strongest,” he told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo.

Padilla explained that it was a “very close encounter” and some of the troops fought with the enemy at the distance of 10 meters.

Aerial bombardment was also delayed by a few hours because of poor weather conditions. Instead, the military used its alternate plan and doubled its artillery strikes, Padilla said.

“It was supposed to be both [aerial bombardment and artillery] if the opportunity and circumstances allowed. But since there was intervening factor of the weather the helicopters were not able to enter so we doubled our artillery preparatory fires,” he said.

Padilla denied reports that the troops on the ground lacked support, “All the equipment and assets they needed were at their disposal.”

Air support for the fighting that started at 8a.m. came by midday which prevented the Abu Sayyaf from closing in.

“When the weather cleared, the OV-10s came in and they launched fires the whole afternoon on Saturday and the enemies were not able to come closer,” Padilla said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/779057/asg-leader-in-critical-condition-intensified-ops-in-basilan-afp

Funeral honors canceled for fallen soldiers in Basilan clash

From the Philippine Star (Apr 11): Funeral honors canceled for fallen soldiers in Basilan clash

Soldiers and families are dismayed that 18 soldiers killed in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan over the weekend were not given funeral honors before being sent home.

The Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) decided on Sunday to cancel the public viewing of the Pacquiao-Bradley fight at the camp gym so it could be used for the funeral honor and Mass vigil for the 18 fallen soldiers, but that was also canceled.

According to military sources, there was an order from the Department of National Defense and from higher headquarters to scrap the funeral honors and to instead to send the remains of the fallen troopers to their respective places of origin.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin visited Wesmincom Sunday but it is not clear who gave the order to cancel the funeral honors.

Reporters were also barred from taking videos and pictures and from conducting interviews at the private funeral parlor where the remains of 13 of the soldiers were brought.

The remains of the other soldiers were brought to the mosque inside the Wesmincom and then sent to their respective families for traditional Muslim burial rites.

Except for the remains of Lt. Remegio Liceña, a platoon leader whose remains were transported to Luzon on a military cargo plane, the bodies of the soldiers were brought home in military trucks.

“Parang hindi hero ang treatment sa aming mga kasama, ni walang funeral honors,” one of the soldiers said.

He said that the remains were also brought back from Basilan on a slow-moving transport ship.

“Kaya tuloy bloated na ang mga mukha at katawan ng mga patay dahil ang transport na barko ay halos hindi umuusad,” a soldier disclosed.

The soldier also said that prior to their deployment to Basilan, the military leadership already had an idea of the enemy's position.

“Bakit hindi na lang muna na-soften 'yong ground sa pamamagitan ng artillery bago isabak kami doon?” the soldier, who asked not to be named, said. “Kaya tuloy parang ginawa kaming mga target paper.”

The 44th IB, which came from Sulu weeks before the encounter in Basilan, had been forewarned that they were not allowed to die, the soldier said.

“Mabuti pa iyong isang opisyal, nagpayo sa amin na bawal ang mga sundalo mamatay dahil mahirap maiwan ang mga dependents... Mahirap makakuha ng benepisyo.”

The soldiers were reportedly on the way to a mission against a high-value target in Tipo-Tipo town when they were ambushed by more than 100 Abu Sayyaf fighters. Eighteen soldiers died in the encounter and more than 50 were wounded.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/04/11/1571770/funeral-honors-canceled-fallen-soldiers-basilan-clash

Turkey looking forward to greater Defense, Military cooperation with Philippines

From Update.Ph (Apr 11): Turkey looking forward to greater Defense, Military cooperation with Philippines 



The government of Turkey is looking forward to a greater defense and military cooperation with the Philippines. Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez paid a courtesy call to Minister of Defense of the Republic of Turkey Ismet Yilmaz April 7, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The Filipino Ambassador briefed the Turkish Defense Minister on recent positive developments in the bilateral relations of the Philippines and Turkey particularly in the defense and military spheres.

Minister Yılmaz said that the Turkish Government “regards the Philippines as the most important partner in the Asia-Pacific region.” He noted that bilateral relations have no problems and that it has potential to improve in all fields.

Ambassador Sanchez also discussed the possibility of opening an Office of Defense and Armed Forces Attaché at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara. According to Minister Yilmaz, this would facilitate greater exchanges in military-to-military cooperation between the two countries.

In May 2015, then-Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff John H. Bonafos made a visit at the invitation of the Vice Chief of the Turkish General Staff.

This visit helped prepare the way for a possible exchange of visits by the Defense Minister and his Philippine counterpart.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/turkey-looking-forward-to-greater-defense-military-cooperation-with-philippines/4166

8 more Sayyaf men killed in AFP offensive in Basilan

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 11): 8 more Sayyaf men killed in AFP offensive in Basilan
THE Philippine military says eight more Abu Sayyaf extremists have died and a top militant commander has been wounded as troops pressed a major offensive following the killings of 18 soldiers in fierce fighting over the weekend.

Regional military spokesman Maj. Filemon Tan says four Abu Sayyaf gunmen who were wounded in battle Saturday later died and four others were killed in fresh fighting Sunday on Basilan island.

Tan says a ruthless Abu Sayyaf commander, Puruji Indama, has been seriously wounded in the head either by gun or artillery fire. Indama has been linked to deadly bomb attacks, kidnappings and beheadings of Filipino marines.

Daylong fighting in the outskirts of Basilan’s Tipo Tipo town left 18 soldiers dead Saturday in the military’s largest single-day combat loss so far this year.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/779038/8-more-sayyaf-men-killed-in-afp-offensive-in-basilan

Military official: Pacman win ‘a source of comfort’ for battle-hardened soldiers

From the Daily Tribune (Apr 11): Military official: Pacman win ‘a source of comfort’ for battle-hardened soldiers

Amid its setback in Basilan on Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday branded as “a source of comfort” the victory of Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao who dominated American Timothy Bradley en route to a unanimous decision win.

Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr., AFP spokesman, said that Pacuiao’s victory came as a comfort to “battle-hardened” soldiers following the killing of 18 government troops and wounding of 53 others during a clash with the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group in Basilan.

An Army reservist with the rank of lieutenant colonel, Pacquiao floored Bradley twice during the 12-round bout and scored 116-110 in all of the three judges.

“We were in Mindanao when Lt. Col. Manny Pacquiao’s victory was passed on to us. It was a most welcomed news, a consolation and a source of comfort for many of our battle-hardened warriors,” said Padilla.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri and other senior military officers were in Zamboanga yesterday to monitor the ongoing military operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan.

“Just like Manny, our warriors’ determination and tenacity in seeking the enemy and prevailing over the forces of evil are clearly manifest in their undeterred operations against the enemies of the state,” said Padilla.

For his part, Army chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano, who was also in Zamboanga, expressed elation over Pacquiao’s victory.

Ano said that since Pacquiao is seeking a Senate seat, the Army would have to wait until after the elections to recognize him for his dominant performance against Bradley.

“He is a political candidate and we are ban from doing it. Perhaps we can recognize his feat and success after the election period,” Ano said.

Army spokesman Col. Benjamin Hao echoed Padilla’s pronouncement expressing hope that Pacquiao’s win would somewhat bring comfort to the soldiers.

“The Philippine Army expresses its happiness on the win of Army Reserve Lt. Col. Manny Pacquiao,” said Hao.

“We are proud of him. We hope that this will at least compensates the loss of our troops in the Basilan operation that happened during the Araw ng Kagitingan,” he added.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/military-official-pacman-win-a-source-of-comfort-for-battle-hardened-soldiers

Chopper scam whistleblower cries harassment

From ABS-CBN (Apr 11): Chopper scam whistleblower cries harassment



Voltaire Gazmin and Rhodora Alvarez. Composite Photo.

A government employee on Monday branded as harassment the libel charges filed against her by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, whom she accused of rigging a P1.25-billion contract for 21 refurbished helicopters.

Gazmin filed three counts of libel against whistleblower Rhodora Alvarez, a Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) employee, last Friday.

Alvarez, who had close ties with Thach Nguyen of aircraft supplier Rice Aircraft Services Inc. (RASI), earlier alleged that the contract was ''tailor-fitted'' so that only RASI would meet its specifications.

READ: Supplier of 'antiquated' military choppers was favored: witness

She also claimed Gazmin received seven percent of the alleged 12 percent kickback that Department of Defense (DND) officials received from the deal.

Gazmin's newest move is only aimed at pressuring Alvarez to withdraw her plunder complaints against the Cabinet secretary and other DND officials, her counsel claimed.

READ: Plunder, graft complaints filed vs Gazmin, 38 others

Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) founding chairman Dante Jimenez, who represents Alvarez, said that unidentified men barged into the whistleblower's home last Monday, searching for important documents.

Jimenez alleged that Alvarez has failed to receive her salary from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). This, he said, was part of the government's effort to harass Alvarez.

He also questioned why the investigation into the alleged chopper deal scam was left hanging by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chaired by Senator Teofisto Guingona III.

Jimenez represents Alvarez because she is not allowed to give statements to the media as a beneficiary of the Witness Protection Program (WPP).

Gazmin and other accused officials had been cleared by the DND from any supposed violation of the Government Procurement Act.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/04/11/16/chopper-scam-whistleblower-cries-harassment

Weather, wild terrain: Army on what went wrong in Basilan clash

From ABS-CBN (Apr 11): Weather, wild terrain: Army on what went wrong in Basilan clash

[Video Report: DZMM TeleRadyo: Weather, wild terrain: Army on what went wrong in Basilan clash (Radio Interview of MAJ Filemon Tan, spokesperson for Western Mindanao Command)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nubvQoH9FAQ] MANILA - An army official on Monday identified factors which could have led to the loss of at least 23 lives when government forces and Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) fighters clashed in a 10-hour gunfight in Basilan Saturday. Speaking to radio dzMM, Army Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Maj. Filemon Tan said that weather conditions and ongoing cloud seeding operations barred air assets from giving support to the troops on ground.

"Sa pagkakataong ito lang po talaga, talagang very intense ang laban. And ang atin pong air support, iyung weather po ang isang kinonsidera. Low cloud seeding po kasi kaya hindi nakapagbigay ng air support," he said.

Tan also said that an added challenge to their operation is the overgrown terrain in the area.

"Pagdating po sa terrain, may kasukalan po. Kailangan nating mag-maneuver nang maayos diyan, i-asses nang maayos ang ating movements," he said.

Tan added that the ASG militants involved in clash were highly trained in warfare and equipped with powerful firearms.

He said rebels were under ASG top commander Isnilon Hapilon, one of the targets of the Army's operation.

Eighteen soldiers and five Muslim extremists, including a reported Moroccan national, were killed in the latest upsurge of violence in the troubled southern province.

Among the casualties were Moroccan-based bomb expert Mohammad Khattab, and a son of Hapilon.

Tan said several of the army's fatalities, meanwhile, died from hacking wounds but he clarified that none was beheaded, contrary to initial reports.

The clash also wounded some 53 soldiers and at least 20 other bandits, including Radzmil Jannatul, an ASG commander.

Tan said six of the wounded soldiers remain in critical condition while the rest are still recovering from minor injuries and shrapnel wounds.

Despite the heavy loss of lives, military operations in the area are still ongoing, Tan said.

"Dire-diretso po ang operasyon doon. Kahapon po napalaban ang tropa. Ngayon, we are pushing the fight. This will be a no-let-up operation," he explained.

Tan also assured that the military is following a well-formed tactical plan while reinforcements are also on standby for emergency evacuation and close air support.

The clash came a day after a retired Italian priest, Rolando Del Torchio, being held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf, was freed.

The ASG is a small group of militants known for kidnapping foreigners and demanding huge ransoms.

Eighteen other foreign hostages are being held in the Philippines, most or all of them thought to be in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf.

The group was established in the early 1990s with seed money from Osama bin Laden's Al Qaeda network.

Its leaders have in recent years pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group that controls vast swathes of Iraq and Syria. -- With a report from Agence France-Presse

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/04/11/16/weather-wild-terrain-army-on-what-went-wrong-in-basilan-clash

US, PH Marines affirm value of Balikatan

From ABS0CBN (Apr 11): US, PH Marines affirm value of Balikatan

Officials of the Philippine and U.S. armed forces on Monday reiterated the value of the Balikatan exercises as the two groups held joint military exercises in San Jose, Antique.

Western Command chief Vice Adm. Alexander Lopez, the Philippines' exercise director for Balikatan, said that the war games would enhance the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through the adoption of modern military technology and hardware.

The exercise, Lopez added, also aims to enhance the interoperability of the two countries during humanitarian crises and disaster response.

Filipino and American Marines from the joint rapid reaction force concluded the amphibious beach landing exercise in the coastline of Barangay Funda early Monday.

Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander of U.S. Marine Corps forces in the Pacific, said this event is also in line with the aim of establishing tactics, techniques, and procedures for efficient calamity response.

Toolan said government troops were able to implement a coherent plan and establish command and control over Panay island in response to a scenario of humanitarian crisis.

He also stressed the iron-clad commitment of the U.S. forces when asked about their possible move should any country invade the Philippines.

Both Lopez and Toolan, however, denied that this year's Balikatan -- the biggest ever war games between the Philippine and American forces -- is related to territorial issues in the South China Sea.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/04/11/16/us-ph-marines-affirm-value-of-balikatan

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/04/11/16/us-ph-marines-affirm-value-of-balikatan

ISIS behind Basilan killings, says expert

From Rappler (Apr 11): ISIS behind Basilan killings, says expert

EXCLUSIVE: The gun battle that killed at least 18 soldiers in Basilan over the weekend is the handiwork of ISIS, its first major attack in the Philippines, according to Rohan Gunaratna



THE FALLEN. In this file photo, flag-draped coffins carrying the 18 soldiers killed in Basilan on April 9, 2016 are seen at the Western Mindanao Command headquarters in Zamboanga City, April 10, 2016. Photo via Richard Falcatan

The Islamic State in Syria and Iraq, also known as ISIS, IS, ISIL, or Da’esch, carried out its first major attack in the Philippines over the weekend in a 10-hour gun battle with the military in Basilan that killed at least 19 soldiers and 13 terrorists.

This was disclosed to Rappler by Rohan Gunaratna, the head of Singapore’s International Centre for Political Violence & Terrorism Research. “The group responsible is the Islamic State, led by Isnilon Hapilon in the Philippines,” Gunaratna told Rappler in a phone interview on Sunday, April 11. Gunaratna is the author of numerous books on security, including Inside Al-Qaeda.

“He’s the current leader of the Islamic State in the southern Philippines, and he has taken responsibility for this operation," said Gunaratna."So it’s wrong for anyone to say that this is a fight with the Abu Sayyaf because in Basilan, Isnilon Hapilon and all the other commanders have pledged allegiance to Abu Bakar al-Baghdadi (who leads ISIS). They are no longer loyal to Radullan Sahiron, the Abu Sayyaf leader.”

The military said the terrorists' attack in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, last Saturday, April 9 wounded at least 52 soldiers and 20 terrorists, including Abu Sayyaf leader Radzmil Janatul, aka Kubayb.

Of the 19 soldiers killed, 18 of them died during the clash while one died hours after being brought to the hospital. Four of the soldiers were beheaded in the fighting, regional military spokesman Major Filemon Tan said.

The military said 13 of the terrorists were also killed in the clash.

Intelligence sources however told Rappler that a total of 34 people died in the clash.

Among the terrorists' casualties was a Moroccan national, identified as Mohammad Khattab, as well as Amah Hapilon, the son of Hapilon.

Armed Forces chief of staff General Hernando Irriberri said Khattab "wanted to unify, organize all kidnap-for-ransom groups to be affiliated with an international terrorist organization." He did not identify the group.

Allegiance to ISIS

LOYALTY TO THE ISLAMIC STATE. In this screenshot of a video, Isnilon Hapilon swears allegiance to ISIS

In a series of Rappler exclusives, we reported Hapilon swore allegiance to ISIS in mid-2014.

Hapilon carries a reward of up to $5 million from the US Rewards for Justice Program. He was indicted in the District of Columbia for “terrorist acts against United States nationals and other foreign nationals.”

The FBI said he was “the deputy or second in command for the foreign terrorist organization, the Abu Sayyaf.” Back then, he reported to Radullan Sahiron, the leader of the Abu Sayyaf. (Read: ISIS’ global ambitions and plans for Southeast Asia)

On January 4, 2016, Hapilon took his commitment to ISIS a step further, uniting Filipinos and Malaysians in 4 “battalions” in the Philippines. They formed a shura or leadership council and named Hapilon their leader. (Read: ISIS to declare a province in Mindanao?)

Early this year, Gunaratna warned that “the next step ISIS is likely to take is the proclamation of wilayat – or province – in Mindanao.” Now he is more insistent, saying this ISIS attack – the largest in Southeast Asia – is a sign of capability, and that Hapilon’s group “will soon be recognized and declared a wilayat.”

In February, ISIS recognized Hapilon’s coalition but did not declare its area of influence a province. (Read: ISIS recognizes Philippine-based extremist groups)

Two weeks later on March 1, soldiers captured 3 major strongholds of one of the groups which pledged allegiance to ISIS in Butig town in Lanao del Sur after a 10-day offensive that killed 24 militants, 3 soldiers and displaced more than 30,000 people. (Read: PH troops regain control of town attacked by terrorists)

A day later, a lone assailant tried to assassinate an influential Saudi preacher on an ISIS hit-list. Dabiq, its monthly online magazine, called on “lone wolves” to attack several Saudi clerics accused of apostasy, including the Saudi preacher who had just finished his speech at Mindanao State University in Zamboanga City.

Saudi Sheikh Aaidh al-Qarni and Saudi diplomat Sheikh Turki Assaegh were wounded but survived the attempt. The gunman was killed by police forces. (Read: PH probes attack on ISIS-targeted top Saudi cleric)

At least 18 foreign hostages are held in the Philippines, most or all of them thought to be with the Abu Sayyaf.

Military in denial?

Sources in the military said Isnilon is categorized as an Abu Sayyaf leader and "an ISIS sympathizer," which may show a military in denial. (Read: Experts warn PH: Don’t underestimate ISIS)

Major Tan told reporters the ambush that led to the large military casualty was led by Hapilon and about 120 members of the Abu Sayyaf.

Gunaratna told Rappler that is wrong.

“It is because the Philippine military still sees them as Abu Sayyaf, but in reality, Isnilon Hapilon has moved away and is now an independent entity,” said Gunaratna. “He is committed towards following the Islamic State. He’s going to start the beheadings, and he’s going to enforce the Islamic State code in Basilan and in other areas that they control.”

Gunaratna urged “uncompromising military action to preempt the declaration” of an Islamic State province.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/129060-isis-behind-basilan-killings-expert

Two soldiers probed for roles in Sibulan shooting

From the Mindanao Times (Apr 11): Two soldiers probed for roles in Sibulan shooting

10th Infantry Division has asked the Special Operations Command (Socom) to look into the roles of two Scout Rangerswho reportedly shot an 11-year-old boy in Sitio Mitondo, Barangay Sibulan in Toril District last April 1.

 

Meanwhile, the seven members of the elite 6th Scout Rangers, whose names were withheld pending the result of the investigation, have been placed on restrictive custody at the 2nd Scout Rangers Battalion in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

 

Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, said they have endorsed the case to the Socom headquarters in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija as it overseas the Scout Rangers. Valencia said they could not yet conclude whether the soldiers committed wrongdoings.

 

He said that the division is saddened and they sympathized with the family of Daniel Ferrer, the victim of the incident, as members of the Scout Ranger unit initiated a “pass the hat” to raise money as immediate financial assistance for the burial of the victim.

 

The Socom investigation, the official added, will not preclude any investigation that maybe conducted by other agencies as the Commission on Human Rights also has already conducted investigation of the incident.

 

A source from the Investigation Section in CHR –XI, who asked not to be named for lack of authority to speak on the case, said that they already received a report of the incident.

 

“It is just the same process,” the officer said. “We will investigate on the matter to know if there is a human rights violation.”

 

The case was referred to them by a representative from National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP).

 

According to the report, Ferrer and his uncle, Danilo Adang Pili, 43, a former member of the Civilan Armed Forces Geographical Unit, were gathering some wood to be used in the construction of the house of Danilo when they were fired upon around 10:30 a.m., April 1.

 

Danilo dropped and crawled while his nephew ran away. Around 30 minutes later, when he could not find the boy, Danilo returned to the area but the boy was nowhere to be found.

 

According to the soldiers’ version of the events, they were on security patrol when they saw one man carrying a long firearm, which prompted them to fire.

 

The soldiers found the “rifle” left by Danilo, which turned out to be an air gun.

 

On Saturday, personnel from the 39th Infantry Battalion turned over Daniel’s body to the Cafgu detachment under the 72nd Infantry Battalion in Sitio Lawaon, Purok 7, Barangay Sibulan.

 

The boy’s body was turned over to his family in Barangay Colorado.

 

Supt. Jed Clamor, commander of the Toril Police Precinct, said the boy’s mother and uncle personally came to his office on Saturday morning to report the incident.

 

“He (Danilo) really didn’t see who fired at them, but the ones who brought the body were soldiers,” the police officer said.

 

On Saturday morning, the two Scout Rangers visited the family, accompanied by the troops of the 84th Infantry Battalion, to try to come up with a settlement.

 

“We are also waiting for the family to discuss whether they will file a case or not,” he said.

 

Reportedly, the victim’s family executed an affidavit of desistance and was given P100,000 in the presence of personnel from the NCIP and a lawyer.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/two-soldiers-probed-for-roles-in-sibulan-shooting/

AFP awards medals to soldiers wounded in Basilan clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 10): AFP awards medals to soldiers wounded in Basilan clash

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has awarded medals to the wounded government troops who fought gallantly against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands on Saturday in the hinterlands of Basilan.

Gen. Hernando Delfin Carmelo Iriberri, AFP chief-of-staff, led the awarding of Wounded Personnel Medals (WPMs) to the soldiers who were wounded in Satur’s 10-hour gun battle the town of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.

Eighteen soldiers were killed while 56 others were wounded in a clash preceded by an ambush that broke out around 8:00 a.m. Saturday in Sitio Bayoko, Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo.

Five Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands, including a foreign terrorist, were killed while 20 others, including ASG leader Radzmil Jannatul alias Kubayb, were wounded.

Most of the wounded soldiers were admitted at the Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH) of the military’s Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

“Our troops fought gallantly and we salute them as they displayed the finest traditions of soldiery with utmost valor,” Iriberri said.

“We are truly better for their sacrifice and we will take inspiration from their exemplary service. After we grieve for our soldiers, we shall continue the fight to win the peace of our people. Our soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice so that the people of Basilan will be free from terrorists and secure a peaceful and bright future for their next generation.” Iriberri added.

Iriberri arrived here Sunday morning together with Department of National Defense Sec. Voltaire Gazmin.

They met with Westmincom officials headed by Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo Dela Cruz to get a first hand information of the intense gun battle.

They later proceeded to the CNGH where Iriberri awarded WPM to the wounded soldiers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=874959

Iriberri: offensive against ASG has ‘no time frame’

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): Iriberri: offensive against ASG has ‘no time frame’

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that the offensive against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands in Basilan province has “no time frame.”

This was announced by Gen. Hernando Delfin Carmelo Iriberri, AFP chief-of-staff, during his visit on Sunday to the soldiers who were wounded in the 10-hour fire fight against the ASG brigands on Saturday in Basilan.

Iriberri said they are not giving any time frame as the military operations will continue without let up “as we seek the withdrawing bandits and hold them accountable for their crimes.”

The target of the continued military operation are the groups ASG leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Furuji Indama, whose were involved in several atrocities.

“We are dictated by our mission, not by time,” Iriberri added.

Five ASG brigands, including a Moroccan national, were killed while 20 others were wounded in the fire fight that took place on Saturday in Sitio Bayoko, Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.

The slain Moroccan national was identified as Mohammad Khattab and the other slain ASG brigand was Ubaida Hapilon, the son of Isnilon.

Eighteen soldiers were killed while 56 others were wounded during the clash.

Iriberri visited the troops together with National Defense Sec. Voltaire Gazmin and other top military officials.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=875253

Flags in military camps in half-mast to mourn 18 soldiers killed in Basilan clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): Flags in military camps in half-mast to mourn 18 soldiers killed in Basilan clash

In honor of the 18 troopers who have fallen in battle trying to eliminate the Abu Sayyaf (ASG) bandits in Basilan Saturday, all flags in military camps nationwide were flown at half-mast Monday.

"Flags are flown at half-mast to mourn the death of our soldiers...our heroes who offered the ultimate sacrifice, their lives, last Saturday, our National Day of Valor, in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan in a day-long encounter against elements of the kidnap-for-ransom-group ASG. We fly it at half-mast to honor their gallantry and sacrifice," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.

Around 18 troopers and 53 others were wounded in a more than nine-hour encounter with ASG bandits in Sitio Bayoko, Baguindan last April 9 which started 7:55 a.m. and ended at 5:30 p.m.

Appropriate honors and benefits will be given to all military casualties.

The high number of military casualties can be attributed to the ASG's use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or crew-served weapons during the initial stage of the clash.

The number of ASG forces encountered by the troopers was initially estimated to be around or over 100.

Confirmed numbers of bandits killed in the operation is placed at five including Moroccan terrorist and IED expert Mohammad Khattab who is in the country for three years and trying to act as a conduit between a "Middle East international terrorist group".

Army Chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano said Khattab's presence was detected in the country last year.

Meanwhile, around 20 rebels were wounded in the clash including ASG leader Radzmil Jannatul alias 'Kubayb'.

'Meeting engagement' caused most of gov't casualties in Basilan clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): 'Meeting engagement' caused most of gov't casualties in Basilan clash

"Meeting engagement" or fighting in extremely close ranges coupled with detonation of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) caused the huge number of casualties from the military side in Saturday's clash with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits.

This was confirmed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, adding firing ranges were sometimes down to only 10 meters.

Short engagement ranges, coupled with the ASG tactics of using IEDs as early warning devices, and sniping, caused most of the military casualties.

This took place during the initial part of the engagement, he added.

Most of the slain and wounded troopers are from the 44th Infantry Battalion, he added.

Eighteen soldiers and 53 others were wounded in the more than nine-hour clash between military units and ASG bandits in Barangay Baguidan, Tipo-Tipo last April 9.

The encounter started 7:55 a.m. and lasted until 5:30 p.m.

There was also an ASG attempt to behead two of the slain soldiers but these were prevented by covering fire of surviving troops, Padilla said.

As this develops, the AFP spokesperson said all available resources like close-air attack aircraft, artillery and armored units were made available to support the operations against the ASG bandits.

However, poor weather conditions, prompted the cancellation of the aerial bombardment missions, forcing the military to double its artillery strikes against ASG positions.

However, the well-entrenched ASG positions which managed to deflect shell fragments well aside from being covered by vegetation.

Meanwhile, armored units were not able to play their full role due to the rough and hilly terrain.

But despite these handicaps, troops still went on their mission, Padilla added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=875266

Aim of Basilan operation achieved with death of Moroccan terrorist

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): Aim of Basilan operation achieved with death of Moroccan terrorist

Despite heavy losses sustained by government forces in the clash with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, the objective of the operation was achieved as Moroccan terrorist Moroccan Mohammad Khattab was confirmed killed in the battle.

Eighteen soldiers were killed and 53 others were wounded in the more than nine-hour clash in Barangay Baguidan last April 9.

This was stressed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla during Monday's briefing.

He also confirmed that government troops have recovered Khattab's body.

The Moroccan terrorist, who is also an improvised explosive device (IED) expert, was reportedly acting as conduit between a "Middle East international terrorist group" and demanding that the ASG take a more extremist role in Mindanao.

Khattab has been in the country for three years.

Padilla said that while many soldiers were killed and wounded in the operation, it is also likely that many others were saved due to the neutralization of the Moroccan terrorist.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=875256

13 ASG bandits killed in ongoing clash in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): 13 ASG bandits killed in ongoing clash in Basilan

Ongoing government operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan has resulted in the death of 13 members of the rebel group.

This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla in a briefing Monday.

"Thirteen ASG bandits were reported killed in Sunday's operations in Barangay Baguindan, (Tipo-Tipo), Basilan," he said quoting reports coming from Western Mindanao Command (WMC) head Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo Cruz.

Fighting between a much smaller ASG band took started between 9:00-10:00 a.m. and lasted until 3:00 p.m.

No losses were incurred by government forces in this clash, he added.

Padilla said that they are waiting for reports from the WMC to determine whether the bodies of the slain ASGs were recovered and the exact number of wounded bandits.

Operations are still ongoing as of this posting.

With these, the number of slain ASG brigands since April 9 has now climbed to 18, Padilla said.

On the same day, 18 government troopers were killed and another 53 wounded in a more than nine-hour clash with the brigands.

Padilla said initial benefits to be received by families of the slain troopers include six months worth of payment depending on their salary grades; PHP50,000 worth cash assistance coming from their Mutual Benefits Association, Inc.; scholarships for their children; and another PHP100,000 coming from various organizations.

While soldiers wounded slightly in the battle will receive PHP50,000 while those critical hurt will get PHP100,000.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=875249

Palace: Military pursuit operations are ongoing vs Abu Sayyaf

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): Palace: Military pursuit operations are ongoing vs Abu Sayyaf

Malacañang said on Monday the military is continuing to pursue its operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group and other lawless elements in Basilan.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri informed President Benigno S. Aquino III on this progress after their return from Zamboanga City on Sunday night.

“Both officials informed the President that, in accordance with his instructions, pursuit operations are still being conducted and that the troops are fully equipped and adequately supported,” said Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. in a statement.

Coloma said the military operations in Basilan were intensified since December 2015 and have resulted in neutralizing high-value terror suspects, including Malaysian Mohd Najib Hussein (a.k.a. Abu Anas), Moroccan Mohammad Khattab and Ubaida Hapilon, son of senior Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=875262

BI on alert over foreign terrorists trying to gain entry into PHL

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11): BI on alert over foreign terrorists trying to gain entry into PHL

Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Ronaldo Geron has ordered its newly designated intelligence head to tighten the security and monitoring of all foreign nationals arriving in the country.

He issued the directive to Intel Chief Rommel De Leon to ensure that wanted persons from friendly nations and foreign terrorists with links to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) will not use the Philippines as their hiding place and jump-off point to their foreign targets.

For his part, the new chief of the Intelligence Division vowed to assign skilled and experienced immigration agents in all international airports and seaports to screen arriving foreigners and prevent the entry of suspected international terrorists and wanted foreign persons.

With this, De Leon reported that they intercepted a Korean national wanted in his home country for various crimes, including extortion and blackmailing his countrymen living in the Philippines.

The fugitive was identified as Choi Yeong-ik, who also used fraudulent Philippine passport under a Filipino name Bryan Cruz Chua. He also claimed that he was born in Motiong, Samar, to gain easy entry at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

The BI reported that the foreigner also holds a Philippine driver's license, while his Philippine passport was allegedly issued in Cebu province.

Meanwhile, the BI also held a Chinese national at the NAIA terminal 1 last April 7.

He was identified as Mark Chin Perez Lao, bound for Tel Aviv, Israel. He refused to divulge his real Chinese identity.

Lao’s passport turned out to be fraudulent when an immigration officer entered the passport in the newly installed passport reading machine.

The passport revealed only three digits instead of eight numerical digits.

Both are now now detained at the BI detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City, pending the deportation proceedings to be filed against them.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=875271