From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 1): Army in Negros on defensive mode
The Philippine Army in Negros is now in defensive mode, following a series of encounters with communist New People's Army and government forces in seven areas of Luzon and Mindanao, in the past several days.
Newly-promoted Brig. Gen. Francisco Delfin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said yesterday that he has already alerted all Army units and detachments in Negros Island Region, to be vigilant and closely monitor the movements of NPA rebels.
Despite armed skirmishes in other areas of the country, the five-month unilateral ceasefire being observed by government forces and NPA rebels in Negros appears to be holding with no violation reported as of this time, military records showed.
The Army's 303rd Infantry Brigade reported having recorded 26 non-violent activities of the NPA in the Negros region, including recruitment activities, mostly in northern Negros.
They also monitored the consolidation of armed rebels in Escalante City, Himamaylan City, as well as in Hinobaan, Negros Occidental, and ideological political organizational activities in the areas of Santa Catalina in Negros Oriental.
Delfin assured Negrenses that the Philippine Army remains on top of the situation, stressing also that they are in close coordination with the Philippine National Police and other security forces.
The series of encounters raised questions about the status of the ceasefire between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF.
Two Army soldiers have been killed, and three injured, while another was abducted in separate incidents in Luzon and Mindanao.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/February/01/topstory7.htm
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Officials warn peace process could be jeopardized by NPA attacks
From the Business World (Feb 1): Officials warn peace process could be jeopardized by NPA attacks
TOP government officials on Tuesday expressed alarm over the recent attacks allegedly carried out by the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the united communist movement under the National Democratic Front (NDF) that is in peace talks with the state.
Reports of encounters between armed rebels and state forces came on the heels of the third round of peace talks in Rome that negotiators described as a “success.”
In a statement issued yesterday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Col. Edgard A. Arevalo said field reports indicate that members of the NPA have launched “planned and coordinated attacks” against military personnel from different army units.
Such attacks, Mr. Arevalo said, include ambushes and abductions of soldiers in various locations in the country on Jan. 29 and 30.
“This is a disturbing development. We have reported these unfortunate incidents to the Office of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process (OPAPP),” he said, adding that they have also demanded the release of Erwin Salan of 30th Infantry Battalion, who was reportedly abducted at gunpoint by alleged members of the NPA.
“We urge them to stop attacking the soldiers. Those acts violate their own cease-fire declaration. Those acts are actually assault to the communities and its people who sought for the assistance of the army in improving their lives,” the AFP spokesperson said.
For his part, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza said in a separate statement that the government is “distressed and extremely disturbed” by these recent attacks by alleged “elements” of the NPA in various areas nationwide amid an ongoing unilateral cease-fire.
“Either some in the [NDF] leadership talking to the government are not in full control of their own forces on the ground, or they are themselves undermining these efforts for sustainable peace, or pressuring government for certain concessions,” said Mr. Dureza.
Before the new round of talks started in Rome, the NDF had cautioned that government troops on the ground were jeopardizing the five-month-old unilateral cease-fire. The organization also expressed frustration over what it called the government’s “broken promises,” including the release of around 400 political detainees.
President Rodrigo R. Duterte, who describes himself as a socialist, has expressed commitment to ending one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies.
He called for a resumption of the peace process soon after taking office in June last year and appointed three leftists to his Cabinet.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=officials-warn-peace-process-could-be-jeopardized-by-npa-attacks&id=139939
TOP government officials on Tuesday expressed alarm over the recent attacks allegedly carried out by the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the united communist movement under the National Democratic Front (NDF) that is in peace talks with the state.
Reports of encounters between armed rebels and state forces came on the heels of the third round of peace talks in Rome that negotiators described as a “success.”
In a statement issued yesterday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Col. Edgard A. Arevalo said field reports indicate that members of the NPA have launched “planned and coordinated attacks” against military personnel from different army units.
Such attacks, Mr. Arevalo said, include ambushes and abductions of soldiers in various locations in the country on Jan. 29 and 30.
“This is a disturbing development. We have reported these unfortunate incidents to the Office of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process (OPAPP),” he said, adding that they have also demanded the release of Erwin Salan of 30th Infantry Battalion, who was reportedly abducted at gunpoint by alleged members of the NPA.
“We urge them to stop attacking the soldiers. Those acts violate their own cease-fire declaration. Those acts are actually assault to the communities and its people who sought for the assistance of the army in improving their lives,” the AFP spokesperson said.
For his part, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza said in a separate statement that the government is “distressed and extremely disturbed” by these recent attacks by alleged “elements” of the NPA in various areas nationwide amid an ongoing unilateral cease-fire.
“Either some in the [NDF] leadership talking to the government are not in full control of their own forces on the ground, or they are themselves undermining these efforts for sustainable peace, or pressuring government for certain concessions,” said Mr. Dureza.
Before the new round of talks started in Rome, the NDF had cautioned that government troops on the ground were jeopardizing the five-month-old unilateral cease-fire. The organization also expressed frustration over what it called the government’s “broken promises,” including the release of around 400 political detainees.
President Rodrigo R. Duterte, who describes himself as a socialist, has expressed commitment to ending one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies.
He called for a resumption of the peace process soon after taking office in June last year and appointed three leftists to his Cabinet.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=officials-warn-peace-process-could-be-jeopardized-by-npa-attacks&id=139939
5 Abu men killed, 2 soldiers and 7 others wounded in Sulu clashes
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 31): 5 Abu men killed, 2 soldiers and 7 others wounded in Sulu clashes
Soldiers in action against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu. AFP FILE PHOTO / STRINGER
Five suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed while nine others – including two soldiers – were injured in separate clashes in Sulu on Tuesday.
Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said the clashes took place in Barangay Pugad Manaul in Panamao, Sulu.
He said the group that the soldiers clashed with was led by Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya.
“First, there was an encounter of 30 minutes and the kidnappers withdrew, and another unit engaged them in a bloody firefight for 45 minutes,” Galvez said. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/866950/5-abu-sayyaf-men-killed-2-soldiers-and-7-others-hurt-in-sulu-clashes
Soldiers in action against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu. AFP FILE PHOTO / STRINGER
Five suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed while nine others – including two soldiers – were injured in separate clashes in Sulu on Tuesday.
Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said the clashes took place in Barangay Pugad Manaul in Panamao, Sulu.
He said the group that the soldiers clashed with was led by Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya.
Dureza disturbed by recent NPA offensives
From the Sun Star-Davao (Jan 31): Dureza disturbed by recent NPA offensives
PRESIDENTIAL Assistant for the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza expressed alarm over the recent attacks and harassments allegedly conducted by the New People's Army (NPA) amid the ongoing peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and National Democratic Front (NDF) that has been gaining momentum after the third round.
"The unilateral ceasefire was precisely set in place to provide an enabling environment for the ongoing peace talks and also to secure the support of the stakeholders and the bigger public in understanding and supporting these unprecedented, although small but significant steps, for sustainable peace in the land," Dureza said in a press statement released Tuesday afternoon.
"We do not wish to unnecessarily squander those gains that even saw President Duterte exercising strong political will to move the peace process forward," he added. The offensives are contrary to the air of camaraderie experienced during the third round of talks in Rome, Italy, leading Dureza to believe that the negotiators are not in full control of their men.
"Either some in the National Democratic Front (NDF) leadership talking to the government are not in full control of their own forces on the ground, or they are themselves undermining these efforts for sustainable peace, or pressuring government for certain concessions," Dureza said.
Dureza assured that President Rodrigo Duterte is focused on achieving peace and will "definitely walk the extra mile for peace."
"But our counterparts on the other side of the peace table must also reciprocate accordingly and do the same," he said.
In the latest round of talks held in Rome, the government of the Philippines (GRP) and NDF agreed to separately discuss the joint bilateral ceasefire when both negotiating panels meet in February, in time for the depositing of identification documents of rebel leaders who are to be covered by the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantee (Jasig) in Utrecht, The Netherlands.
This bilateral ceasefire was not discussed in the third round as the NDF refused to include it in the agenda. But the NDF finally conceded to include it in the February talks after they formally received the GRP's draft bilateral ceasefire proposal on the fourth day of the Rome talks.
NDF chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili said they will study the draft proposal and will submit their own draft as well. Of greater importance during the third round was the signing by both parties last January 21, the supplemental guidelines for the full operation of the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
Bello described the signing as a concrete manifestation of the Duterte administration’s adherence for respect of international human rights law and a victory for the people and the Duterte government and a major dividend in the peace process.
The guidelines were drafted in 2004 but this was not signed as peace negotiations bogged down in 2011. The guidelines is a set of mechanisms on how to address complaints of violation by the government forces and the NPA, the armed wing of the NDF.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/02/01/dureza-disturbed-recent-npa-offensives-523214
PRESIDENTIAL Assistant for the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza expressed alarm over the recent attacks and harassments allegedly conducted by the New People's Army (NPA) amid the ongoing peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and National Democratic Front (NDF) that has been gaining momentum after the third round.
"The unilateral ceasefire was precisely set in place to provide an enabling environment for the ongoing peace talks and also to secure the support of the stakeholders and the bigger public in understanding and supporting these unprecedented, although small but significant steps, for sustainable peace in the land," Dureza said in a press statement released Tuesday afternoon.
"We do not wish to unnecessarily squander those gains that even saw President Duterte exercising strong political will to move the peace process forward," he added. The offensives are contrary to the air of camaraderie experienced during the third round of talks in Rome, Italy, leading Dureza to believe that the negotiators are not in full control of their men.
"Either some in the National Democratic Front (NDF) leadership talking to the government are not in full control of their own forces on the ground, or they are themselves undermining these efforts for sustainable peace, or pressuring government for certain concessions," Dureza said.
Dureza assured that President Rodrigo Duterte is focused on achieving peace and will "definitely walk the extra mile for peace."
"But our counterparts on the other side of the peace table must also reciprocate accordingly and do the same," he said.
In the latest round of talks held in Rome, the government of the Philippines (GRP) and NDF agreed to separately discuss the joint bilateral ceasefire when both negotiating panels meet in February, in time for the depositing of identification documents of rebel leaders who are to be covered by the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantee (Jasig) in Utrecht, The Netherlands.
This bilateral ceasefire was not discussed in the third round as the NDF refused to include it in the agenda. But the NDF finally conceded to include it in the February talks after they formally received the GRP's draft bilateral ceasefire proposal on the fourth day of the Rome talks.
NDF chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili said they will study the draft proposal and will submit their own draft as well. Of greater importance during the third round was the signing by both parties last January 21, the supplemental guidelines for the full operation of the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
Bello described the signing as a concrete manifestation of the Duterte administration’s adherence for respect of international human rights law and a victory for the people and the Duterte government and a major dividend in the peace process.
The guidelines were drafted in 2004 but this was not signed as peace negotiations bogged down in 2011. The guidelines is a set of mechanisms on how to address complaints of violation by the government forces and the NPA, the armed wing of the NDF.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/02/01/dureza-disturbed-recent-npa-offensives-523214
Duterte's peace adviser slams NDF over series of rebel attacks
From Rappler (Feb 1): Duterte's peace adviser slams NDF over series of rebel attacks
(UPDATED) NDF hits back and takes the government to task for the possible consequences of chief presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza's 'bellicose statements'
PEACE ADVISER. Secretary Jesus Dureza reiterates commitment of President Rodrigo Duterte in peace talks. Photo from OPAPP
A series of armed encounters between state forces and communist rebels prompted a word war on Tuesday, January 31, between the chief peace adviser of President Rodrigo Duterte and the chief negotiator of the communist National Democratic Front (NDF).
Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza issued a strong statement against the NDF leadership following a series of attacks reported by the military. (READ: Soldiers report skirmishes with NPA in 7 areas)
The NDF hit back and blamed the clashes on the military's aggressiveness on the ground.
'Is the NDF able to control its forces?'
Dureza revived a sensitive issue previously raised against the NDF leadership: Is the NDF able to control the forces on the ground?
"Either some in the NDF leadership talking to the government are not in full control of their own forces on the ground, or they are themselves undermining these efforts for sustainable peace, or pressuring government for certain concessions," Dureza said in a statement.
NDF chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili hit back at Dureza, taking him to task for the possible consequences of what he considered as "bellicose statements" coming from Duterte's chief peace adviser.
"We strongly advice Secretary Dureza not to raise the bogey of disunity among the ranks of the revolutionary movement," said Agcaoili.
He said it's a revival of an old propaganda used by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr when he was still chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
"We shall hold the GRP responsible for anything untoward that would happen to the ongoing peace negotiations due to its bellicose statements on the actions of the NPA to defend and protect communities after the Makilala incident," Agcaoili added.
'Ceasefire still in place'
Two soldiers were killed, one was abducted, and at least 3 were wounded in a series of armed encounters since Sunday. They were unexpected because of the ongoing ceasefire between the two armed groups.
"The unilateral ceasefire was precisely set in place to provide an enabling environment for the ongoing peace talks and also to secure the support of the stakeholders and the bigger public in understanding and supporting these unprecedented, although small but significant steps, for sustainable peace in the land," Dureza said.
Agcaoili said the ceasefire is still in place. "We declare that as of today, there have been no orders from the CPP-NPA leadership to revoke its unilateral ceasefire declaration. The CPP-NPA's unilateral ceasefire remains in place," he said in a statement on Tuesday.
Agcaoili said the clashes were a result of the military's aggressiveness, citing the first firefight to disrupt the 5-month-old ceasefire in Makilala, North Cotabato, where a rebel was killed.
NPA spokesperson Jorge "Ka Oris" Madlos is expected to issue a statement on Wednesday, February 1.
Bilateral ceasefire agreement
The military and the New People's Army released separate unilateral ceasefire declarations in August 2016 in support of the talks to end Asia's longest running communist insurgency. But the ceasefires became untenable as both sides protested each other's activities.
The government is seeking a joint ceasefire deal – imposing common rules so misencounters are avoided – amid threats from the NPA it is going to withdraw its ceasefire declaration.
The government failed to accomplish this during the 3rd round of talks in Rome in January, but it is counting on the NPA to hold the ceasefire because of an agreement to discuss the joint deal in a side meeting in The Netherlands in February.
Dureza said President Duterte remains committed to the talks but said the NDF "must also reciprocate accordingly and do the same."
"We do not wish to unnecessarily squander those gains that even saw President Duterte exercising strong political will to move the peace process forward," Dureza added.
Agcaoili reminded Dureza of the gains of the peace talks and reiterated protests against delays in the release of political prisoners.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/160090-dureza-peace-adviser-rebel-attacks
(UPDATED) NDF hits back and takes the government to task for the possible consequences of chief presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza's 'bellicose statements'
PEACE ADVISER. Secretary Jesus Dureza reiterates commitment of President Rodrigo Duterte in peace talks. Photo from OPAPP
A series of armed encounters between state forces and communist rebels prompted a word war on Tuesday, January 31, between the chief peace adviser of President Rodrigo Duterte and the chief negotiator of the communist National Democratic Front (NDF).
Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza issued a strong statement against the NDF leadership following a series of attacks reported by the military. (READ: Soldiers report skirmishes with NPA in 7 areas)
The NDF hit back and blamed the clashes on the military's aggressiveness on the ground.
'Is the NDF able to control its forces?'
Dureza revived a sensitive issue previously raised against the NDF leadership: Is the NDF able to control the forces on the ground?
"Either some in the NDF leadership talking to the government are not in full control of their own forces on the ground, or they are themselves undermining these efforts for sustainable peace, or pressuring government for certain concessions," Dureza said in a statement.
NDF chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili hit back at Dureza, taking him to task for the possible consequences of what he considered as "bellicose statements" coming from Duterte's chief peace adviser.
"We strongly advice Secretary Dureza not to raise the bogey of disunity among the ranks of the revolutionary movement," said Agcaoili.
He said it's a revival of an old propaganda used by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr when he was still chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
"We shall hold the GRP responsible for anything untoward that would happen to the ongoing peace negotiations due to its bellicose statements on the actions of the NPA to defend and protect communities after the Makilala incident," Agcaoili added.
'Ceasefire still in place'
Two soldiers were killed, one was abducted, and at least 3 were wounded in a series of armed encounters since Sunday. They were unexpected because of the ongoing ceasefire between the two armed groups.
"The unilateral ceasefire was precisely set in place to provide an enabling environment for the ongoing peace talks and also to secure the support of the stakeholders and the bigger public in understanding and supporting these unprecedented, although small but significant steps, for sustainable peace in the land," Dureza said.
Agcaoili said the ceasefire is still in place. "We declare that as of today, there have been no orders from the CPP-NPA leadership to revoke its unilateral ceasefire declaration. The CPP-NPA's unilateral ceasefire remains in place," he said in a statement on Tuesday.
Agcaoili said the clashes were a result of the military's aggressiveness, citing the first firefight to disrupt the 5-month-old ceasefire in Makilala, North Cotabato, where a rebel was killed.
"What the alleged armed skirmishes indicate is that the GRP military and police have become more aggressive after their success in the Makilala, North Cotabato, incident when they attacked an NPA encampment. It also means that the NPA has taken an active defense posture to defend and protect the communities and its forces," said Agcaoili.
Bilateral ceasefire agreement
The military and the New People's Army released separate unilateral ceasefire declarations in August 2016 in support of the talks to end Asia's longest running communist insurgency. But the ceasefires became untenable as both sides protested each other's activities.
The government is seeking a joint ceasefire deal – imposing common rules so misencounters are avoided – amid threats from the NPA it is going to withdraw its ceasefire declaration.
The government failed to accomplish this during the 3rd round of talks in Rome in January, but it is counting on the NPA to hold the ceasefire because of an agreement to discuss the joint deal in a side meeting in The Netherlands in February.
Dureza said President Duterte remains committed to the talks but said the NDF "must also reciprocate accordingly and do the same."
"We do not wish to unnecessarily squander those gains that even saw President Duterte exercising strong political will to move the peace process forward," Dureza added.
Agcaoili reminded Dureza of the gains of the peace talks and reiterated protests against delays in the release of political prisoners.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/160090-dureza-peace-adviser-rebel-attacks
US military delivers counterterrorism equipments to PH Army, Marine Corps
From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 1): US military delivers counterterrorism equipments to PH Army, Marine Corps
Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines’ Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) recently delivered new military equipment to the Philippine Army and Marine Corps on January 27.
The transfer included over 400 M203 grenade launchers, 85 M40A5 sniper rifles, and a RQ-11B Raven unmanned aerial vehicle system consisting of three drones for exclusive use and ownership by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The AFP procured the small-arms weapons through the U.S. government’s Foreign Military Sales program. The equipment will help enhance their counterterrorism capabilities, and protect Philippine security forces actively engaged in counterterrorism operations in the southern Philippines.
In addition to the transfer, the U.S. government provided a Raven unmanned aerial vehicle system through the grant counterterrorism program.
As part of the grant, and in addition to the three unmanned aerial vehicles included in the Raven system, Philippine service members received training in the U.S. on its operations and maintenance.
The Raven is a hand-launched unmanned aerial vehicle that will increase the AFP’s capabilities to conduct intelligence collection, mission planning, and reconnaissance operations.
The equipment transfer and continued bilateral training efforts demonstrate the commitment between the Philippines and U.S. to work towards safer communities and the eradication of global terror networks.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/02/01/us-military-delivers-counterterrorism-equipments-to-ph-army-marine-corps/
Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines’ Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) recently delivered new military equipment to the Philippine Army and Marine Corps on January 27.
The transfer included over 400 M203 grenade launchers, 85 M40A5 sniper rifles, and a RQ-11B Raven unmanned aerial vehicle system consisting of three drones for exclusive use and ownership by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Philippine service members receive new counterterrorism equipment from the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group Philippines, as part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts and a U.S. government grant program aimed at assisting security forces conducting counterterrorism operations. (Photo courtesy of the US Embassy) | Manila Bulletin
In addition to the transfer, the U.S. government provided a Raven unmanned aerial vehicle system through the grant counterterrorism program.
As part of the grant, and in addition to the three unmanned aerial vehicles included in the Raven system, Philippine service members received training in the U.S. on its operations and maintenance.
The Raven is a hand-launched unmanned aerial vehicle that will increase the AFP’s capabilities to conduct intelligence collection, mission planning, and reconnaissance operations.
The equipment transfer and continued bilateral training efforts demonstrate the commitment between the Philippines and U.S. to work towards safer communities and the eradication of global terror networks.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/02/01/us-military-delivers-counterterrorism-equipments-to-ph-army-marine-corps/
AFP questions ‘lack of control’ in NDF leadership
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 1): AFP questions ‘lack of control’ in NDF leadership
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday questioned the supposed “lack of control” in the leadership of the National Democratic Front (NDF), after the New People’s Army (NPA) terminated its unilateral ceasefire.
The NDF and its armed wing, the NPA, released conflicting statements on the termination of the ceasefire. The NDF’s Fidel Agcaoili said they were on “active defense mode” but said they were not withdrawing the unilateral ceasefire.
NPA spokesperson Ka Oris, meanwhile, announced their termination of the unilateral ceasefire effective Feb. 10, citing the government’s failure to release political prisoners and the military’s presence in their “areas.”
“The same lack of control led to various infractions of their own ceasefire declaration that disturbed the ongoing negotiations,” he added.
The Department of National Defense said the military will continue to implement its unilateral ceasefire unless ordered otherwise by President Rodrigo Duterte.
The government and communists declared their own unilateral ceasefire last August. It was broken after a firefight in Makilala, North Cotabato last week, which left one rebel dead.
Several incidents of abduction, extortion and ambush supposedly done by the NPA were reported by the military since Sunday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/867250/afp-questions-lack-of-control-in-ndf-leadership
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday questioned the supposed “lack of control” in the leadership of the National Democratic Front (NDF), after the New People’s Army (NPA) terminated its unilateral ceasefire.
The NDF and its armed wing, the NPA, released conflicting statements on the termination of the ceasefire. The NDF’s Fidel Agcaoili said they were on “active defense mode” but said they were not withdrawing the unilateral ceasefire.
NPA spokesperson Ka Oris, meanwhile, announced their termination of the unilateral ceasefire effective Feb. 10, citing the government’s failure to release political prisoners and the military’s presence in their “areas.”
“The same lack of control led to various infractions of their own ceasefire declaration that disturbed the ongoing negotiations,” he added.
The Department of National Defense said the military will continue to implement its unilateral ceasefire unless ordered otherwise by President Rodrigo Duterte.
The government and communists declared their own unilateral ceasefire last August. It was broken after a firefight in Makilala, North Cotabato last week, which left one rebel dead.
Several incidents of abduction, extortion and ambush supposedly done by the NPA were reported by the military since Sunday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/867250/afp-questions-lack-of-control-in-ndf-leadership
Despite AFP denial, Palace says Duterte has sources on US arms depot claim
From the Philippine Star (Jan 31): Despite AFP denial, Palace says Duterte has sources on US arms depot claim
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said the president may have other sources of information regarding the claim that the US is building an arms depot in the country. US Navy/Scott Barnes/Released, File
Malacañang insisted Tuesday that President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim that the US is building an arms depot in the Philippines has basis after the military said it has not received any report about such activity.
Duterte revealed last Sunday that US troops seem to be constructing a depot in the country and are unloading arms in Palawan, Cagayan de Oro and Pampanga.
He said the US military should stop these activities or he would consider reviewing or even abrogating the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).
The president also claimed that the US is “egging the Philippines to force the issue of the arbitral judgment,” which invalidated China’s maritime claim in the South China Sea. He stressed he would not allow the US to drag the Philippines into a conflict with China.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said there was no confirmed incident indicating that the US is really building a depot in the country. The US Embassy in Manila has also denied the president’s allegations.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella, however, said the president may have other sources of information.
“If your question is where he got the information, I cannot tell you that. But he seems to be privy to some sort of information,” he said in a press briefing in Malacañang Tuesday.
He did not elaborate on the basis of the president’s claim.
Abella made the statement after journalists pointed out that Duterte categorically claimed that American troopers are unloading arms and making some parts of the country their warehouse or depots.
Abella initially claimed that Duterte was just saying that he would not allow any downloading of arms and building of depots and other permanent structures that are not allowed under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The EDCA, which was signed by the Philippines and the US in 2014, provides American troops access to some military bases in the country.
“If you check the context of his statements, it was that, that he was saying that he would not allow it if it were to happen,” Abella said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/01/31/1667852/despite-afp-denial-palace-says-duterte-has-sources-us-arms-depot-claim
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said the president may have other sources of information regarding the claim that the US is building an arms depot in the country. US Navy/Scott Barnes/Released, File
Malacañang insisted Tuesday that President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim that the US is building an arms depot in the Philippines has basis after the military said it has not received any report about such activity.
Duterte revealed last Sunday that US troops seem to be constructing a depot in the country and are unloading arms in Palawan, Cagayan de Oro and Pampanga.
He said the US military should stop these activities or he would consider reviewing or even abrogating the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).
The president also claimed that the US is “egging the Philippines to force the issue of the arbitral judgment,” which invalidated China’s maritime claim in the South China Sea. He stressed he would not allow the US to drag the Philippines into a conflict with China.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said there was no confirmed incident indicating that the US is really building a depot in the country. The US Embassy in Manila has also denied the president’s allegations.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella, however, said the president may have other sources of information.
“If your question is where he got the information, I cannot tell you that. But he seems to be privy to some sort of information,” he said in a press briefing in Malacañang Tuesday.
He did not elaborate on the basis of the president’s claim.
Abella made the statement after journalists pointed out that Duterte categorically claimed that American troopers are unloading arms and making some parts of the country their warehouse or depots.
Abella initially claimed that Duterte was just saying that he would not allow any downloading of arms and building of depots and other permanent structures that are not allowed under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The EDCA, which was signed by the Philippines and the US in 2014, provides American troops access to some military bases in the country.
“If you check the context of his statements, it was that, that he was saying that he would not allow it if it were to happen,” Abella said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/01/31/1667852/despite-afp-denial-palace-says-duterte-has-sources-us-arms-depot-claim
China ‘likely to agree to Duterte’s request for anti-piracy patrols’
From the South China Morning Post (Feb 1): China ‘likely to agree to Duterte’s request for anti-piracy patrols’
Region of concern south of the Philippines is well away from disputed areas of South China Sea
Region of concern south of the Philippines is well away from disputed areas of South China Sea
Duterte said earlier in a speech to newly promoted Filipino generals that he had asked China to “patrol the international waters without necessarily intruding into the territorial waters of countries” in the southern waters of the island country in response to abducting sailors and attacking vessels in waters off the southern Philippines.
An official talks to Glenn Alindajao, a Filipino crew member of the South Korea-registered carrier DongBang Giant 2, after he was freed by Abu Sayyaf militants in Sulu, southern Philippines on January 14 Photo: Reuters
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The request came after Abu Sayyaf, a small band of militants that has declared allegiance to the Islamic State group, began kidnapping sailors in waters between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines last year, taking several dozen hostages and attacking cargo ships.
Following the deaths of 14 people in a night market bombing last September, Secretary of National Defence Delfin Lorenzana requested two to three speedboats, two drones, a batch of sniper rifles and explosive ordnance disposal robots from a US$14 million arms donation from China
Duterte signed US$13.5 billion worth of deals with President Xi Jinping during their meeting last October, which was seen as further evidence that the island country was distancing itself from its traditional defence ally the United States and growing closer to China despite their long-standing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
A file photo of a Singapore coastguard vessel patrolling an anchorage close to Indonesia's Riau Island. Photo: AFP
Zhu Xin, associate professor at Beijing’s University of International Relations, believed China would again make a supportive gesture by agreeing to Duterte’s request.
“It is obvious that China feels positive about Duterte,” Zhu said. “Furthermore, China would probably consider the terrorist problem a regional one rather than only considering its relations with the Philippines.”
Zhu said China would face difficulties carrying out its One Belt, One Road initiative raised by Xi in 2013 to build a 21st-century Maritime Silk Road if it failed to step up efforts to halt the spread of the terrorist group.
Xu Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, shared the view that it was “highly possible” that China would respond positively to the deal as it had already cooperated with other Asian countries like Malaysia to fight terrorism.
“The area involved is not disputed territory involved in the South China Sea, so it will not be too sensitive having Chinese ships patrolling waters in the area,” Xu said.
“Fighting terrorism is different from other [political disputes], because many terrorist groups target the United States,” he said, adding that patrols by US vessels in the area had only attracted more terrorists to the region.
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte visits a soldier wounded in a clash with Abu Sayyaf rebels, at a military hospital in Zamboanga city, southern Philippines, in December. Photo: EPA
The International Maritime Bureau said last month that the number of kidnappings at sea hit a 10-year high in 2016, with waters off the southern Philippines becoming increasingly dangerous.
Pirates were focusing more of their attacks on larger merchant ships near the Philippines, hoping for bigger ransom payments from kidnapping their crew, the head of a regional anti-piracy group said last month.
11 nabbed in Marawi raid freed
From the Manila Times (Jan 31): 11 nabbed in Marawi raid freed
MARAWI CITY: The 11 persons arrested in a raid by police and military last Monday inside the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus here were immediately released after authorities found lack of probable cause to indict them in relation to terrorism.
MSU president Dr. Habib Macaayong said the detained include faculty members, who were at a boarding house owned by Sacar Macadindang, an engineer and overseas worker in Saudi Arabia who was on vacation for his child’s graduation at the MSU last January 25.
Macaayong added that an official from the Presidential Adviser on Overseas Affairs and Muslim Concerns also vouched for their innocence.
The operatives, armed with search warrants for illegal possession of firearms, explosives and illegal drugs, were in pursuit of members of the jihadist Maute group who were reportedly using Macadindang’s apartment as safehouse.
http://www.manilatimes.net/11-nabbed-marawi-raid-freed/309891/
MARAWI CITY: The 11 persons arrested in a raid by police and military last Monday inside the Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus here were immediately released after authorities found lack of probable cause to indict them in relation to terrorism.
MSU president Dr. Habib Macaayong said the detained include faculty members, who were at a boarding house owned by Sacar Macadindang, an engineer and overseas worker in Saudi Arabia who was on vacation for his child’s graduation at the MSU last January 25.
Macaayong added that an official from the Presidential Adviser on Overseas Affairs and Muslim Concerns also vouched for their innocence.
The operatives, armed with search warrants for illegal possession of firearms, explosives and illegal drugs, were in pursuit of members of the jihadist Maute group who were reportedly using Macadindang’s apartment as safehouse.
http://www.manilatimes.net/11-nabbed-marawi-raid-freed/309891/
Duterte taps China vs pirates in Sulu sea
From the Philippine Star (Feb 1): Duterte taps China vs pirates in Sulu sea
“I also asked China if they can patrol the international waters without necessarily intruding into the territorial waters of the country. We would be glad if we have their presence,” Duterte said in a speech before newly promoted generals led by Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Eduardo Año at Malacañang last night. File photo
MANILA, Philippines - In a bid to stop the expansion of extremism and piracy in the southern seas, President Duterte has requested China to patrol the areas in international waters leading to Malacca Strait and the Sulu Sea.
“I also asked China if they can patrol the international waters without necessarily intruding into the territorial waters of the country. We would be glad if we have their presence,” Duterte said in a speech before newly promoted generals led by Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Eduardo Año at Malacañang last night.
This developed as a special emissary of the Indonesian government flew in Monday night to seek clarification on a kidnapping incident.
Duterte stressed the Islamic State (IS) problem should be contained.
“I cannot allow (it), they are not only killing…it has nothing to do with Moro and Christians. They are just killing everybody. They are kidnapping Indonesians. There is a report of kidnapping there and a special emissary was sent by the Central Government of Jakarta who flew in last night,” he said.
Duterte said he told the top Indonesian official that the Philippines and Indonesia have agreed to address the security concerns in the high seas bordering the two countries, as well as Malaysia.
“I just remind them about this understanding, put it into practice. Allow more ships (to enter the area),” Duterte said.
He was referring to the trilateral maritime agreement between the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia on joint air patrols in the problem areas.
It was at this juncture that Duterte revealed that he has asked for China’s help if Philippine forces, with their meager resources, are unable to address the problem.
Duterte said ships of the Chinese coast guard could come in without treading into the country’s territorial zones, keeping in mind the arbitration ruling against China.
He said Beijing could deploy its coast guard cutters, not its “gray ships” or naval assets.
He cited Beijing’s assistance to Somalia at the height of piracy in the area.
National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said the President could just be expressing his serious concerns on the continuing kidnapping activities in Mindanao.
Esperon added there was also an Indonesian who was injured during a military operation in Butig, Lanao del Sur, the known lair of the extremist Maute Group.
“Terrorism is an international concern, that’s what he meant. If he may have mentioned one country, all countries are also concerned on terrorism,” Esperon said.
Impeding trade
Duterte expressed concern that the piracy and kidnapping incidents in Sulu Sea and Malacca Strait have impeded trade operations in the area.
He made the statement following reports that some international cargo ships have opted to look for other sea routes despite added expense.
Duterte said if the route is closed due to the high incidence of kidnapping cases, the flow of goods would be hampered and become very costly to international traders.
“Either they go up to the north, and if they’re headed for Mexico, down south, or here where it would be nearer, which would mean higher costs, higher rate, higher insurance, it adds up to the goods and the services there, governs the world, it’s always goods and services,” Duterte said.
With Duterte asking for Beijing’s help, observers noted he also allowed China to implement its Maritime Silk Road that includes the Malacca Strait as one of its stops.
Chinese President Xi Jinping had announced that his country wanted to revive not just the traditional Silk Road’s land route, but also a maritime route.
Reports said most of China’s trade and about 80 percent of its energy needs pass through the Malacca Strait.
Before Duterte’s pivot to China, there had been so much resistance against Beijing’s expansion operations in many areas in the South China Sea.
Alsa Masa style
Duterte has also considered giving firearms to locals to empower them in fighting against militants, a strategy similar to the old Alsa Masa group.
The Alsa Masa was established as a vigilante group in 1984 to combat communist insurgency in Davao City.
Duterte revealed authorities have gathered reports that Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon had joined forces with the Maute group in the quest to become the head of IS in the Philippines.
“And there is the Maute, and from what we gather, Hapilon was chosen to lead,” he added.
Duterte, who has expressed serious concern about the IS propagation in the country even in his meetings with the diplomatic community, pointed out the need to contain the fighting in Southern Philippines.
“I told (Defense Secretary) Delfin, General Lorenzana, and all, that we have to contain the fighting. We cannot afford to allow it to spread. Or else, I’ll be forced to arm everybody,” he said.
But he cautioned that the Alsa Masa ended up using the arms given to them “against civilians for depredations, hold-up, all of it.”
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/02/01/1667902/duterte-taps-china-vs-pirates-sulu-sea
“I also asked China if they can patrol the international waters without necessarily intruding into the territorial waters of the country. We would be glad if we have their presence,” Duterte said in a speech before newly promoted generals led by Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Eduardo Año at Malacañang last night.
This developed as a special emissary of the Indonesian government flew in Monday night to seek clarification on a kidnapping incident.
Duterte stressed the Islamic State (IS) problem should be contained.
“I cannot allow (it), they are not only killing…it has nothing to do with Moro and Christians. They are just killing everybody. They are kidnapping Indonesians. There is a report of kidnapping there and a special emissary was sent by the Central Government of Jakarta who flew in last night,” he said.
Duterte said he told the top Indonesian official that the Philippines and Indonesia have agreed to address the security concerns in the high seas bordering the two countries, as well as Malaysia.
“I just remind them about this understanding, put it into practice. Allow more ships (to enter the area),” Duterte said.
He was referring to the trilateral maritime agreement between the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia on joint air patrols in the problem areas.
It was at this juncture that Duterte revealed that he has asked for China’s help if Philippine forces, with their meager resources, are unable to address the problem.
Duterte said ships of the Chinese coast guard could come in without treading into the country’s territorial zones, keeping in mind the arbitration ruling against China.
He said Beijing could deploy its coast guard cutters, not its “gray ships” or naval assets.
He cited Beijing’s assistance to Somalia at the height of piracy in the area.
National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said the President could just be expressing his serious concerns on the continuing kidnapping activities in Mindanao.
Esperon added there was also an Indonesian who was injured during a military operation in Butig, Lanao del Sur, the known lair of the extremist Maute Group.
“Terrorism is an international concern, that’s what he meant. If he may have mentioned one country, all countries are also concerned on terrorism,” Esperon said.
Impeding trade
Duterte expressed concern that the piracy and kidnapping incidents in Sulu Sea and Malacca Strait have impeded trade operations in the area.
He made the statement following reports that some international cargo ships have opted to look for other sea routes despite added expense.
Duterte said if the route is closed due to the high incidence of kidnapping cases, the flow of goods would be hampered and become very costly to international traders.
“Either they go up to the north, and if they’re headed for Mexico, down south, or here where it would be nearer, which would mean higher costs, higher rate, higher insurance, it adds up to the goods and the services there, governs the world, it’s always goods and services,” Duterte said.
With Duterte asking for Beijing’s help, observers noted he also allowed China to implement its Maritime Silk Road that includes the Malacca Strait as one of its stops.
Chinese President Xi Jinping had announced that his country wanted to revive not just the traditional Silk Road’s land route, but also a maritime route.
Reports said most of China’s trade and about 80 percent of its energy needs pass through the Malacca Strait.
Before Duterte’s pivot to China, there had been so much resistance against Beijing’s expansion operations in many areas in the South China Sea.
Alsa Masa style
Duterte has also considered giving firearms to locals to empower them in fighting against militants, a strategy similar to the old Alsa Masa group.
The Alsa Masa was established as a vigilante group in 1984 to combat communist insurgency in Davao City.
Duterte revealed authorities have gathered reports that Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon had joined forces with the Maute group in the quest to become the head of IS in the Philippines.
“And there is the Maute, and from what we gather, Hapilon was chosen to lead,” he added.
Duterte, who has expressed serious concern about the IS propagation in the country even in his meetings with the diplomatic community, pointed out the need to contain the fighting in Southern Philippines.
“I told (Defense Secretary) Delfin, General Lorenzana, and all, that we have to contain the fighting. We cannot afford to allow it to spread. Or else, I’ll be forced to arm everybody,” he said.
But he cautioned that the Alsa Masa ended up using the arms given to them “against civilians for depredations, hold-up, all of it.”
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/02/01/1667902/duterte-taps-china-vs-pirates-sulu-sea
2 soldiers dead in NPA ambush
From Tempo (Feb 1): 2 soldiers dead in NPA ambush
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Tuesday said two Army soldiers were killed following an ambush stage by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in Echague, Isabela on Monday.
AFP Public Affairs Office (PAO) chief Marine Colonel Edgard A. Arevalo, identified the fatalities as Corporals Gary Camaneg and Virgilio Herera, both members of the Army’s Bravo Company, 86th Infantry Battalion.
The Army’s 502nd Brigade commander Colonel Bartolome Bacarro said the duo were on board a motorcycle Monday morning on their way to check on a tree-planting project at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Office in San Isidro when they were waylaid by their attackers.
The victims, who were about to follow-up on a request regarding their tree-planting activity, were not in uniform, unarmed and were wearing civilian clothes when the attack happened.
Bacarro said barangay officials who were on board a multicab escaped the attack as they were moving behind the troops.
“Its unfortunate that they had to do that. They (NPAs) themselves violated their own declaration of a unilateral ceasefire. So this is just to show how untrue they are in the peace talks,” Bacarro said. “However, we will still abide with our own declaration of a unilateral declaration and services in the barangays.”
On Sunday, an unarmed Private First Class (PFC) Erwin Salan of the 30th Infantry Battalion was abducted at gunpoint by members of the NPA even while he was wearing civilian clothes.
“We have reported these unfortunate incidents to the Office of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process,” Arevalo said.
Meantime, the AFP is trying to get information if Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Isnilon Hapilon is already dead.
In a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo AFP spokesman Air Force Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, said latest intelligence reports reveal the 50-year-old Hapilon remains wounded and needs immediate medical attention.
“The latest report we received showed that the death toll remains at 15 terrorist killed, including an Indonesian terrorist, with eight wounded including Isnilon Hapilon who is included in the high-value individuals which we are after,” Padilla said.
Padilla said they expect more casualties to come from the the Abu Sayyaf, Maute Group including foreign terrorist said to be with the two groups as the operation in Butig continues.
http://tempo.com.ph/2017/02/01/2-soldiers-dead-in-npa-ambush/
AFP Public Affairs Office (PAO) chief Marine Colonel Edgard A. Arevalo, identified the fatalities as Corporals Gary Camaneg and Virgilio Herera, both members of the Army’s Bravo Company, 86th Infantry Battalion.
The AFP said the families of the slain soldiers have already been notified of their deaths.
Arevalo said one of the soldiers from the 86th Infantry Battalion was killed on the spot following the attack. The other Army personnel earlier reported wounded died Tuesday while undergoing treatment at a local hospital.
The victims, who were about to follow-up on a request regarding their tree-planting activity, were not in uniform, unarmed and were wearing civilian clothes when the attack happened.
Bacarro said barangay officials who were on board a multicab escaped the attack as they were moving behind the troops.
“Its unfortunate that they had to do that. They (NPAs) themselves violated their own declaration of a unilateral ceasefire. So this is just to show how untrue they are in the peace talks,” Bacarro said. “However, we will still abide with our own declaration of a unilateral declaration and services in the barangays.”
On Sunday, an unarmed Private First Class (PFC) Erwin Salan of the 30th Infantry Battalion was abducted at gunpoint by members of the NPA even while he was wearing civilian clothes.
“We have reported these unfortunate incidents to the Office of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process,” Arevalo said.
Meantime, the AFP is trying to get information if Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Isnilon Hapilon is already dead.
In a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo AFP spokesman Air Force Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, said latest intelligence reports reveal the 50-year-old Hapilon remains wounded and needs immediate medical attention.
“The latest report we received showed that the death toll remains at 15 terrorist killed, including an Indonesian terrorist, with eight wounded including Isnilon Hapilon who is included in the high-value individuals which we are after,” Padilla said.
Padilla said they expect more casualties to come from the the Abu Sayyaf, Maute Group including foreign terrorist said to be with the two groups as the operation in Butig continues.
http://tempo.com.ph/2017/02/01/2-soldiers-dead-in-npa-ambush/
“All-out war” vs terrorists “in full swing;” Defense Sec asks public to cooperate
From MindaNews (Jan 31): “All-out war” vs terrorists “in full swing;” Defense Sec asks public to cooperate
President Rodrigo Duterte declares a "full time military operation" against terrorist groups during a press conference in Malacañang midnight January 29-30, 2017. Malacañang photo
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Tuesday urged the public to cooperate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines “to avoid any untoward incident or injury” as he declared the “all-out operations” against terrorists in Mindanao “is in full swing.”
“I would like to inform my fellow Mindanaoans and Filipinos that operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines against the Abu Sayyaf and other local terrorist groups are now in full swing. Your AFP will use its ground, air and sea assets against our enemies and leave them no room for escape,” Lorenzana said in a statement e-mailed to media Tuesday afternoon.
At the midnight press conference in Malacañang on January 29-30, where President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a “full press operations” against terrorists, Lorenzana said, “you can say it is an all out war” against the Maute group in Lanao del Sur, noting that Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and 40 of his people from Basilan are now with the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur “with the intention of organizing the ISIS-connected group.”
Lorenzana, a retired general who hails from Mindanao, said the military will ensure the public’s “safety and those of the poor hostages who are being heartlessly used as human shields.”
He asked the public to cooperate with the AFP “to avoid any untoward incident or injury.”
“Huwag ninyong tutulungan ang mga terorista. Kung tatakbo sila sa mga bahay n’yo, huwag ninyo silang patutuluyin, kakanlungin at itatago. Kung mga kamag-anak o kaibigan ninyo sila at gusto n’yo silang sagipin, kumbinsihin n’yo silang magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan habang may panahon pa,” (Do not help terrorists. If they run to your houses, do not let them in, provide refuge or hide them. If they are your relatives or friends and you want to save them, convince them to surrender to government while there is still time), Lorenzana warned.
He explained the war against terrorism and violent extremism is not just the responsibility of the AFP but is “a war every Filipino citizen must fight in order to attain lasting peace and usher in development to Mindanao and the entire nation.”
Lorenzana also announced during the midnight press conference that “for the first time,” the AFP used its FA 50 combat aircraft on January 25 “to deliver our bombs and it was also supported by the Broncos and helicopters plus in the morning ‘yung mga artillery naman natin ang ginamit to support our troops.”
Not the first time
But this was not the first time the Duterte administration launched operations against the Abu Sayyaf in the island provinces of Sulu and Basilan and the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur.
In both operations – the Abu Sayyaf in August-September and the Maute Group in November- December – the military reported success and in the case of Butig, Lanao del Sur, the area already supposedly “liberated” by December 2016.
Duterte, the country’s 16th President and first Mindanawon to lead the nation, is the fifth Philippine President to attempt to destroy the Abu Sayyaf Group and the second to attempt to destroy the Maute Group. Both groups are based in Mindanao – the Abu Sayyaf in the island provinces of Sulu and Basilan and the Maute Group in the mainland.
Former Presidents Fidel Ramos, Joseph Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno Simeon Aquino III had launched their own “all-out war” and “all-out operations” against the Abu Sayyaf but the group has remained, its kidnapping and other terror acts even worse than before.
Duterte announced in a midnight press conference in Davao City in late August 2016 that he had ordered the military and police to “seek out the Abu Sayyaf and destroy them.”
“Seek them out in their lairs and destroy them… Ang mga Abu Sayyaf destroy them, period,” Duterte said in a midnight press conference, hours after the Abu Sayyaf was reported to have beheaded an 18-year-old male resident of Sulu who was kidnapped by the terrorist group on July 16.
“My orders to the police and armed forces against all enemies of the state: Seek out, seek them out in their lairs, whatever and destroy them. Ang mga droga destroy them. Ang mga Abu Sayyaf, destroy them. Period.”
Primacy of the Peace Process
Drieza Liningding, Secretary-General of the Bangsamoro National Movement for Peace and Development and chair of the Moro Consensus Group, told MindaNews that while they acknowledge the “threat and danger posed by these so-called terrorist groups whom in the past were tainted as colluding with some government agents,” they would like to appeal to the government to “respect the primacy of the peace process.”
Liningding said that if the government is serious in neutralizing these groups, “they should seek the help of major Moro fronts,” referring to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) with whom government has signed peace agreements, “in combating terrorism and expand the mandate of peace mechanisms like the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) which is mandated to interdict criminals in communities dominated by the MILF.”
He noted that military operations against the Abu Sayyaf are near the camps of the MNLF while operations against the Maute Group are near MILF camps.
He said there have been success stories “where the MILF drove out these rogue groups (and) in the case of MNLF, at one time Misuari group engaged the Abu Sayyaf in a firefight and were also instrumental in freeing some of the Abu Sayyaf’s kidnap victims.”
“The more the Government is unilaterally doing this, the more we suspect that these operations are just an excuse to further militarize the Bangsamoro areas,” adding , they “wish that a parallel all out peace by implementing peace agreements be accelerated soon” because the “slow progress” has not been helping the situation on the ground.
Before the meeting, President Duterte held a joint military-police command conference Sunday night.
MindaNews asked Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza if the military option was the only option left for the Mindanawon President, Mindanawon Peace Adviser, and Mindanawon Defense Secretary, in dealing with the terror groups. Dureza had yet to reply as of 9 p.m.
“Takot ako sa kanila”
In the Jan 29-30 midnight press conference, Duterte said there is a “full time military operation” against the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur, following reports that the Hapilon is already in the area.
“Takot ako sa kanila (I am afraid of them) because historically they use bombs, bomb, IED and they did it several times in my city,” Duterte said, citing the latest, the Roxas night market bombing in Davao City on September 2 last year. The bombers, allegedly affiliated with the Maute Group, were later arrested.
Duterte said violent extremism “would be the more dangerous thing for us. And I have ordered a full-press military operation kasi uulit iyan, uulit iyan (they will do it again, they will do it again). And if they are desperate enough they would resume bombing,” Duterte said.
“Embargo the place, you contain them in that area alone, Lanao. Sana huwag nang lumabas sa ibang lugar. Diyan na lang tayo magbakbakan” (Hopefully we can contain the fighting there), he added.
He said he asked the AFP to “use all available and all the weaponry that’s at our disposal” and sent an “urgent message to China to help us kung meron silang mga (if they have) precision-guided arms, they can give us a loan or….”
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/01/all-out-war-vs-terrorists-in-full-swing-defense-sec-asks-public-to-cooperate/
President Rodrigo Duterte declares a "full time military operation" against terrorist groups during a press conference in Malacañang midnight January 29-30, 2017. Malacañang photo
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Tuesday urged the public to cooperate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines “to avoid any untoward incident or injury” as he declared the “all-out operations” against terrorists in Mindanao “is in full swing.”
“I would like to inform my fellow Mindanaoans and Filipinos that operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines against the Abu Sayyaf and other local terrorist groups are now in full swing. Your AFP will use its ground, air and sea assets against our enemies and leave them no room for escape,” Lorenzana said in a statement e-mailed to media Tuesday afternoon.
At the midnight press conference in Malacañang on January 29-30, where President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a “full press operations” against terrorists, Lorenzana said, “you can say it is an all out war” against the Maute group in Lanao del Sur, noting that Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and 40 of his people from Basilan are now with the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur “with the intention of organizing the ISIS-connected group.”
Lorenzana, a retired general who hails from Mindanao, said the military will ensure the public’s “safety and those of the poor hostages who are being heartlessly used as human shields.”
He asked the public to cooperate with the AFP “to avoid any untoward incident or injury.”
“Huwag ninyong tutulungan ang mga terorista. Kung tatakbo sila sa mga bahay n’yo, huwag ninyo silang patutuluyin, kakanlungin at itatago. Kung mga kamag-anak o kaibigan ninyo sila at gusto n’yo silang sagipin, kumbinsihin n’yo silang magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan habang may panahon pa,” (Do not help terrorists. If they run to your houses, do not let them in, provide refuge or hide them. If they are your relatives or friends and you want to save them, convince them to surrender to government while there is still time), Lorenzana warned.
He explained the war against terrorism and violent extremism is not just the responsibility of the AFP but is “a war every Filipino citizen must fight in order to attain lasting peace and usher in development to Mindanao and the entire nation.”
Lorenzana also announced during the midnight press conference that “for the first time,” the AFP used its FA 50 combat aircraft on January 25 “to deliver our bombs and it was also supported by the Broncos and helicopters plus in the morning ‘yung mga artillery naman natin ang ginamit to support our troops.”
Not the first time
But this was not the first time the Duterte administration launched operations against the Abu Sayyaf in the island provinces of Sulu and Basilan and the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur.
In both operations – the Abu Sayyaf in August-September and the Maute Group in November- December – the military reported success and in the case of Butig, Lanao del Sur, the area already supposedly “liberated” by December 2016.
Duterte, the country’s 16th President and first Mindanawon to lead the nation, is the fifth Philippine President to attempt to destroy the Abu Sayyaf Group and the second to attempt to destroy the Maute Group. Both groups are based in Mindanao – the Abu Sayyaf in the island provinces of Sulu and Basilan and the Maute Group in the mainland.
Former Presidents Fidel Ramos, Joseph Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno Simeon Aquino III had launched their own “all-out war” and “all-out operations” against the Abu Sayyaf but the group has remained, its kidnapping and other terror acts even worse than before.
Duterte announced in a midnight press conference in Davao City in late August 2016 that he had ordered the military and police to “seek out the Abu Sayyaf and destroy them.”
“Seek them out in their lairs and destroy them… Ang mga Abu Sayyaf destroy them, period,” Duterte said in a midnight press conference, hours after the Abu Sayyaf was reported to have beheaded an 18-year-old male resident of Sulu who was kidnapped by the terrorist group on July 16.
“My orders to the police and armed forces against all enemies of the state: Seek out, seek them out in their lairs, whatever and destroy them. Ang mga droga destroy them. Ang mga Abu Sayyaf, destroy them. Period.”
Primacy of the Peace Process
Drieza Liningding, Secretary-General of the Bangsamoro National Movement for Peace and Development and chair of the Moro Consensus Group, told MindaNews that while they acknowledge the “threat and danger posed by these so-called terrorist groups whom in the past were tainted as colluding with some government agents,” they would like to appeal to the government to “respect the primacy of the peace process.”
Liningding said that if the government is serious in neutralizing these groups, “they should seek the help of major Moro fronts,” referring to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) with whom government has signed peace agreements, “in combating terrorism and expand the mandate of peace mechanisms like the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) which is mandated to interdict criminals in communities dominated by the MILF.”
He noted that military operations against the Abu Sayyaf are near the camps of the MNLF while operations against the Maute Group are near MILF camps.
He said there have been success stories “where the MILF drove out these rogue groups (and) in the case of MNLF, at one time Misuari group engaged the Abu Sayyaf in a firefight and were also instrumental in freeing some of the Abu Sayyaf’s kidnap victims.”
“The more the Government is unilaterally doing this, the more we suspect that these operations are just an excuse to further militarize the Bangsamoro areas,” adding , they “wish that a parallel all out peace by implementing peace agreements be accelerated soon” because the “slow progress” has not been helping the situation on the ground.
Before the meeting, President Duterte held a joint military-police command conference Sunday night.
MindaNews asked Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza if the military option was the only option left for the Mindanawon President, Mindanawon Peace Adviser, and Mindanawon Defense Secretary, in dealing with the terror groups. Dureza had yet to reply as of 9 p.m.
“Takot ako sa kanila”
In the Jan 29-30 midnight press conference, Duterte said there is a “full time military operation” against the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur, following reports that the Hapilon is already in the area.
“Takot ako sa kanila (I am afraid of them) because historically they use bombs, bomb, IED and they did it several times in my city,” Duterte said, citing the latest, the Roxas night market bombing in Davao City on September 2 last year. The bombers, allegedly affiliated with the Maute Group, were later arrested.
Duterte said violent extremism “would be the more dangerous thing for us. And I have ordered a full-press military operation kasi uulit iyan, uulit iyan (they will do it again, they will do it again). And if they are desperate enough they would resume bombing,” Duterte said.
“Embargo the place, you contain them in that area alone, Lanao. Sana huwag nang lumabas sa ibang lugar. Diyan na lang tayo magbakbakan” (Hopefully we can contain the fighting there), he added.
He said he asked the AFP to “use all available and all the weaponry that’s at our disposal” and sent an “urgent message to China to help us kung meron silang mga (if they have) precision-guided arms, they can give us a loan or….”
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/01/all-out-war-vs-terrorists-in-full-swing-defense-sec-asks-public-to-cooperate/
Westmincom: Maute group uses ‘current technological applications’
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Westmincom: Maute group uses ‘current technological applications’
The Lanao-based Maute terror group is utilizing “current technological applications” in recruiting new members as well as a means of communication.
Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, on Wednesday said the Maute group is recruiting new members through the social media website.
“Based on our reports, they have some sort of an ISIS website. In Lanao alone, we have monitored there are more than 220,000 hits (on the website),” he said.
Galvez said the focus of the Maute group in recruiting new members are the youth ranges from 14 to 19 years old.
He said they recruit young members since they are knowledgeable to the current technological applications.
He disclosed that the members of the Maute group are even using the latest technology applications in avoiding the pursuing troops in Butig, Lanao del Sur.
The government has launched an offensive after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a “full-press military operation” against the Maute group in Lanao del Sur and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
“Their means of communication is really complicated and they have access on technology,” Galvez disclosed.
He said the Maute group rely on local logistical support with funds sourced out through illegal trade and smuggling.
Meanwhile, Galvez disclosed that the Maute group is spreading its influence from Lanao towards the provinces of Sarangani, Cotabato and Basilan.
“We want to contain this phenomenon,” he said as counteraction is being undertaken by the government troops.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960151
The Lanao-based Maute terror group is utilizing “current technological applications” in recruiting new members as well as a means of communication.
Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, on Wednesday said the Maute group is recruiting new members through the social media website.
“Based on our reports, they have some sort of an ISIS website. In Lanao alone, we have monitored there are more than 220,000 hits (on the website),” he said.
Galvez said the focus of the Maute group in recruiting new members are the youth ranges from 14 to 19 years old.
He said they recruit young members since they are knowledgeable to the current technological applications.
He disclosed that the members of the Maute group are even using the latest technology applications in avoiding the pursuing troops in Butig, Lanao del Sur.
The government has launched an offensive after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a “full-press military operation” against the Maute group in Lanao del Sur and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).
“Their means of communication is really complicated and they have access on technology,” Galvez disclosed.
He said the Maute group rely on local logistical support with funds sourced out through illegal trade and smuggling.
Meanwhile, Galvez disclosed that the Maute group is spreading its influence from Lanao towards the provinces of Sarangani, Cotabato and Basilan.
“We want to contain this phenomenon,” he said as counteraction is being undertaken by the government troops.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960151
Ceasefire with NPA rebels continues despite the attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Ceasefire with NPA rebels continues despite the attack
The government would continue to honor the unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebels despite the attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA) on government troopers in Northern Mindanao, a top official said Wednesday.
Sec. Jesus Dureza of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) made the statement during a visit on the occasion of the 47th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army at Camp Evangelista here Wednesday.
Dureza, who heads the government’s peace panel, has expressed dismay over the announcement of the National Democratic Front (NDF) that it would no longer honor the unilateral ceasefire effective Feb. 10 but would continue to support the peace negotiation.
Dureza said that the government peace panel has expressed “dismayed” over the NDF announcement since both the government and the NDF have made some progress during the third round of talks in Rome, Italy.
In Rome, he said, “both sides agreed to further the discussion about the bilateral ceasefire in The Netherlands sometime end of this month.”
In a statement released through the social media Wednesday, Jorge Madlos, the NDF-Mindanao spokesperson, said that the NDF would end the “unilateral ceasefire” effective Feb. 10, 2017.
Madlos issued the statement after confirming that the NPA, the military arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), conducted simultaneous attacks on the military in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Region last Monday and Tuesday.
Three government troopers were slightly wounded in the attack while Private First Class Erwin Salan, of Alegria, Surigao Del Norte, was held captive last Jan. 29.
Madlos said that the Duterte administration had not fulfilled its promise of giving amnesty and release of all political detainees now languishing in jails all over the country.
Madlos, however, assured that although the NPA would no longer observe the unilateral ceasefire, the NDF would still support the peace talks.
Dureza said that the government peace panel respected the NPA decision and would recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte that government would also continue to abide the unilateral ceasefire.
However, Dureza said it would be Duterte’s “judgment call” on what course of action to take in the light of the latest development.
He said that the government peace panel would make the recommendation, but it would still be Duterte’s “judgment call on what course of action to take in light of this development.”
However, Dureza said that the military would still be mobilized to coordinate with the local law enforcers in running after lawless elements in the country.
On the allegation that the Duterte administration failed to release the 420 political prisoners, Dureza said that the government could not just easily free those who are facing criminal charges as there was still a legal process to comply with.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana who was also present during the anniversary celebration, told the government troopers to observe the unilateral ceasefire, but should not hesitate to defend themselves against any threats.
Lorenzana said soldiers should respond accordingly to any harassment and should fight back once attack by the rebels.
Dureza said that government panel and the NDF negotiators had remained optimistic that both sides could agree to a bilateral ceasefire so any violations committed by either party could be addressed promptly.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960198
The government would continue to honor the unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebels despite the attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA) on government troopers in Northern Mindanao, a top official said Wednesday.
Sec. Jesus Dureza of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) made the statement during a visit on the occasion of the 47th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army at Camp Evangelista here Wednesday.
Dureza, who heads the government’s peace panel, has expressed dismay over the announcement of the National Democratic Front (NDF) that it would no longer honor the unilateral ceasefire effective Feb. 10 but would continue to support the peace negotiation.
Dureza said that the government peace panel has expressed “dismayed” over the NDF announcement since both the government and the NDF have made some progress during the third round of talks in Rome, Italy.
In Rome, he said, “both sides agreed to further the discussion about the bilateral ceasefire in The Netherlands sometime end of this month.”
In a statement released through the social media Wednesday, Jorge Madlos, the NDF-Mindanao spokesperson, said that the NDF would end the “unilateral ceasefire” effective Feb. 10, 2017.
Madlos issued the statement after confirming that the NPA, the military arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), conducted simultaneous attacks on the military in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Region last Monday and Tuesday.
Three government troopers were slightly wounded in the attack while Private First Class Erwin Salan, of Alegria, Surigao Del Norte, was held captive last Jan. 29.
Madlos said that the Duterte administration had not fulfilled its promise of giving amnesty and release of all political detainees now languishing in jails all over the country.
Madlos, however, assured that although the NPA would no longer observe the unilateral ceasefire, the NDF would still support the peace talks.
Dureza said that the government peace panel respected the NPA decision and would recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte that government would also continue to abide the unilateral ceasefire.
However, Dureza said it would be Duterte’s “judgment call” on what course of action to take in the light of the latest development.
He said that the government peace panel would make the recommendation, but it would still be Duterte’s “judgment call on what course of action to take in light of this development.”
However, Dureza said that the military would still be mobilized to coordinate with the local law enforcers in running after lawless elements in the country.
On the allegation that the Duterte administration failed to release the 420 political prisoners, Dureza said that the government could not just easily free those who are facing criminal charges as there was still a legal process to comply with.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana who was also present during the anniversary celebration, told the government troopers to observe the unilateral ceasefire, but should not hesitate to defend themselves against any threats.
Lorenzana said soldiers should respond accordingly to any harassment and should fight back once attack by the rebels.
Dureza said that government panel and the NDF negotiators had remained optimistic that both sides could agree to a bilateral ceasefire so any violations committed by either party could be addressed promptly.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960198
Army officer killed, 1 wounded in NPA attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Army officer killed, 1 wounded in NPA attack
Following the announcement on the termination of the unilateral ceasefire by the New People’s Army (NPA), an armed group believed to be NPA rebels attacked a joint police and army team in Sitio Paliwason, Lambog in Manay, Davao Oriental on Wednesday afternoon that left one junior officer killed and one wounded.
The joint team from the Manay Police and the 67th Infantry Battalion were on their way to a village in Rizal of the same town to respond to a complaint of extortion and harassment which was reported to the local officials and the police. When they reached Paliwason they were ambushed by a group of armed men.
An encounter ensued that left one junior officer (identity still withheld) and one wounded. The Army troops also recovered from the encounter site an M16 armalite rifle and backpack from the armed group.
Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said the 10ID would continue to abide by the suspension of offensive operations but would not stop in providing security to the people being harassed and intimidated by armed groups.
Prior to the incident, people from Rizal and Lambog have been complaining of extortion and harassment forcing about 60 percent of the Rizal residents to evacuate.
The extortion and harassment were reported to the Manay LGU and the provincial government.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960234
Following the announcement on the termination of the unilateral ceasefire by the New People’s Army (NPA), an armed group believed to be NPA rebels attacked a joint police and army team in Sitio Paliwason, Lambog in Manay, Davao Oriental on Wednesday afternoon that left one junior officer killed and one wounded.
The joint team from the Manay Police and the 67th Infantry Battalion were on their way to a village in Rizal of the same town to respond to a complaint of extortion and harassment which was reported to the local officials and the police. When they reached Paliwason they were ambushed by a group of armed men.
An encounter ensued that left one junior officer (identity still withheld) and one wounded. The Army troops also recovered from the encounter site an M16 armalite rifle and backpack from the armed group.
Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said the 10ID would continue to abide by the suspension of offensive operations but would not stop in providing security to the people being harassed and intimidated by armed groups.
Prior to the incident, people from Rizal and Lambog have been complaining of extortion and harassment forcing about 60 percent of the Rizal residents to evacuate.
The extortion and harassment were reported to the Manay LGU and the provincial government.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960234
Military in Northern Mindanao on high alert, adopts preemptive defensive mode
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Military in Northern Mindanao on high alert, adopts preemptive defensive mode
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan De Oro City -- A military “high alert” and preemptive defensive mode had been issued among unit commanders in Northern Mindanao following declaration of the National Democratic Front (NDF) to dishonor the “unilateral ceasefire,” a military official said Wednesday.
Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, Army's 4th Infantry Division (ID) spokesman, said that the directive was in consonance to the instruction of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to government troopers once attacked by communist rebels.
Lorenzana, who visited this camp Wednesday, on the occasion of the Army’s 47th founding anniversary, said that the government troopers would continue to honor the unilateral ceasefire, but would be ready to fight back once assaulted by enemies.
Martinez said that Army units in Northern Mindanao, which cover the Caraga Region, were instructed to be on a “high alert” and on defensive stance while securing the military’s defense perimeter.
He said that under the situation, the military would not launch any military action against the communist rebels, but would coordinate with the local law enforcers whenever necessary in running after criminals and fugitives.
Jorge Madlos, the NDF spokesperson for Mindanao, said that the New People’s Army (NPA), the military arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), would cease to honor the unilateral ceasefire effective Feb. 10, 2017.
Madlos issued the statement Wednesday after confirming that the NPA launched attacks on military detachments in Northern Mindanao the past two days.
The military denounced the attacks, which slightly wounded three government troopers and the abduction of Pfc. Erwin Sala, of the Army's 29IB in the hinterland village of Alegria, Surigao Del Norte.
Martinez said that the military would not take retaliatory measures until further instructions from Army headquarters and the Commander-In-Chief.
Martinez, however, said that the military, which has always adopted a higher level of alert, has doubled its defense and security alertness following the NPA’s renewed attack against military units in Northern Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960226
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan De Oro City -- A military “high alert” and preemptive defensive mode had been issued among unit commanders in Northern Mindanao following declaration of the National Democratic Front (NDF) to dishonor the “unilateral ceasefire,” a military official said Wednesday.
Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, Army's 4th Infantry Division (ID) spokesman, said that the directive was in consonance to the instruction of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to government troopers once attacked by communist rebels.
Lorenzana, who visited this camp Wednesday, on the occasion of the Army’s 47th founding anniversary, said that the government troopers would continue to honor the unilateral ceasefire, but would be ready to fight back once assaulted by enemies.
Martinez said that Army units in Northern Mindanao, which cover the Caraga Region, were instructed to be on a “high alert” and on defensive stance while securing the military’s defense perimeter.
He said that under the situation, the military would not launch any military action against the communist rebels, but would coordinate with the local law enforcers whenever necessary in running after criminals and fugitives.
Jorge Madlos, the NDF spokesperson for Mindanao, said that the New People’s Army (NPA), the military arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), would cease to honor the unilateral ceasefire effective Feb. 10, 2017.
Madlos issued the statement Wednesday after confirming that the NPA launched attacks on military detachments in Northern Mindanao the past two days.
The military denounced the attacks, which slightly wounded three government troopers and the abduction of Pfc. Erwin Sala, of the Army's 29IB in the hinterland village of Alegria, Surigao Del Norte.
Martinez said that the military would not take retaliatory measures until further instructions from Army headquarters and the Commander-In-Chief.
Martinez, however, said that the military, which has always adopted a higher level of alert, has doubled its defense and security alertness following the NPA’s renewed attack against military units in Northern Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=960226
NPA ceasefire withdrawal contradictory as other rebel factions claiming truce still in place -- AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): NPA ceasefire withdrawal contradictory as other rebel factions claiming truce still in place -- AFP
As the New People's Army (NPA) announced the lifting of its unilateral ceasefire Wednesday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said there is something contradictory about the decision as some rebel factions are claiming that the truce is still in place.
"We heard about the report that the NPA is lifting their unilateral ceasefire declaration effective February 10 through their spokesperson, a certain Ka Oris," said AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo.
"There was also a report quoting NDF (National Democratic Front) chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili that 'there have been no orders from CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) leadership to revoke its unilateral ceasefire' and hence, 'the unilateral ceasefire remains in place'," he added.
The two statements, Arevalo said, reflect the need for the NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) leadership to control the actions of their people on the ground.
"The same lack of control led to various infractions of their own ceasefire declaration that disturbed the ongoing negotiations. Notably, ambush of unarmed soldiers that claimed the lives of at least two soldiers and the injuring of several others, and the abduction of another unarmed soldier -– all coming from non-combat activities -– imperil the fragile peace," he added.
The AFP public affairs office chief said the military believes in and would want to give peace a chance.
"The SOMO (suspension-of-military-operation) stays. There will be no combat operations to be launched against the members of the NPA," he stressed.
"We demand the release of Pfc. Salan who was abducted on Jan. 29, 2017," Arevalo said.
In the same vein, Arevalo said the AFP will continue to safeguard the communities from criminal acts of extortion, burning of vehicles, farm and livelihood implements and other forms of criminal and atrocious acts – whoever is the perpetrator.
"We will continue to perform peace-building and development efforts where the people in conflict areas request us to. We will continue to capacitate local government to deliver basic goods and services to their constituents," he said.
"And if ordered by the Commander-in-Chief, we will lift the SOMO. It is our beholden duty to protect our citizens," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960143
As the New People's Army (NPA) announced the lifting of its unilateral ceasefire Wednesday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said there is something contradictory about the decision as some rebel factions are claiming that the truce is still in place.
"We heard about the report that the NPA is lifting their unilateral ceasefire declaration effective February 10 through their spokesperson, a certain Ka Oris," said AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo.
"There was also a report quoting NDF (National Democratic Front) chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili that 'there have been no orders from CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) leadership to revoke its unilateral ceasefire' and hence, 'the unilateral ceasefire remains in place'," he added.
The two statements, Arevalo said, reflect the need for the NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) leadership to control the actions of their people on the ground.
"The same lack of control led to various infractions of their own ceasefire declaration that disturbed the ongoing negotiations. Notably, ambush of unarmed soldiers that claimed the lives of at least two soldiers and the injuring of several others, and the abduction of another unarmed soldier -– all coming from non-combat activities -– imperil the fragile peace," he added.
The AFP public affairs office chief said the military believes in and would want to give peace a chance.
"The SOMO (suspension-of-military-operation) stays. There will be no combat operations to be launched against the members of the NPA," he stressed.
"We demand the release of Pfc. Salan who was abducted on Jan. 29, 2017," Arevalo said.
In the same vein, Arevalo said the AFP will continue to safeguard the communities from criminal acts of extortion, burning of vehicles, farm and livelihood implements and other forms of criminal and atrocious acts – whoever is the perpetrator.
"We will continue to perform peace-building and development efforts where the people in conflict areas request us to. We will continue to capacitate local government to deliver basic goods and services to their constituents," he said.
"And if ordered by the Commander-in-Chief, we will lift the SOMO. It is our beholden duty to protect our citizens," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960143
Ground-breaking ceremonies for 15th Strike Wing billeting facilities in CDO formally starts
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Ground-breaking ceremonies for 15th Strike Wing billeting facilities in CDO formally starts
Ground-breaking ceremonies for the billeting facilities of the 15th Strike Wing at Lumbia Airport, Cagayan De Oro City formally started Wednesday.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who was the guest-of-honor in the event, said the planned transfer of the 15th Strike Wing is in-line with boosting the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) territorial defense and internal security operations.
“The completion of this project will certainly pave the way for the achievement of the 15th Strike Wing’s goal in the PAF's transformation roadmap, the Flight Plan 2028, and attain the vision of sustaining day and night tactical and air defense operations in support of territorial defense and internal security operations,” he added.
Currently based in Sangley Point, Cavite, the 15th Strike Wing is the primary attack unit of the PAF.
It operates different aircraft such as the OV-10 attack planes, SF-260 ground attack aircraft, MG-520 “Defender” attack helicopters, and the newly acquired Augusta Westland 109 attack helicopters.
Lorenzana said the transfer of the 15th Strike Wing from its present base in Sangley Point, Cavite coincides with the government’s efforts to decongest the airfields in Metro Manila and Southern Tagalog and to develop Sangley Point into a new international airport thereby free up air space at the Manila International Airport.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960132
Ground-breaking ceremonies for the billeting facilities of the 15th Strike Wing at Lumbia Airport, Cagayan De Oro City formally started Wednesday.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who was the guest-of-honor in the event, said the planned transfer of the 15th Strike Wing is in-line with boosting the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) territorial defense and internal security operations.
“The completion of this project will certainly pave the way for the achievement of the 15th Strike Wing’s goal in the PAF's transformation roadmap, the Flight Plan 2028, and attain the vision of sustaining day and night tactical and air defense operations in support of territorial defense and internal security operations,” he added.
Currently based in Sangley Point, Cavite, the 15th Strike Wing is the primary attack unit of the PAF.
It operates different aircraft such as the OV-10 attack planes, SF-260 ground attack aircraft, MG-520 “Defender” attack helicopters, and the newly acquired Augusta Westland 109 attack helicopters.
Lorenzana said the transfer of the 15th Strike Wing from its present base in Sangley Point, Cavite coincides with the government’s efforts to decongest the airfields in Metro Manila and Southern Tagalog and to develop Sangley Point into a new international airport thereby free up air space at the Manila International Airport.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960132
NPA’s termination of unilateral ceasefire is unfortunate -- PNP
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): NPA’s termination of unilateral ceasefire is unfortunate -- PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday termed as unfortunate the termination made by the New People’s Army (NPA) of its unilateral ceasefire.
”It is unfortunate that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its military arm, the NPA, had terminated the unilateral ceasefire it declared last year,” said PNP Public Information Office (PIO) chief and spokesman Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos in a statement.
Carlos said that despite this development and its possible implications to internal security, the PNP will continue to observe a suspension of offensive police operations (SOPO) to honor the Philippine government’s own declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the CPP/NPA/NDF (National Democratic Front).
The PNP official said that with a SOPO notwithstanding, the National Headquarters has alerted all PNP units to remain vigilant and to maintain a high state of operational readiness to respond to hostile actions by domestic threat groups.
”Specifically, PNP units will be on alert for possible movement of armed CPP/NPA members who will take advantage of the SOPO to reposition and regroup; and to engage in unlawful activities,” Carlos said.
He noted it must be understood that this SOPO does not cover normal law enforcement operations and shall be implemented without prejudice to actions aimed at protecting the people and the communities, as well as PNP troops and installations against insurgent or terrorist attacks that may take place during the SOPO period.
”As such, normal police function such as service of warrants of arrest, checkpoint operations, and other routine security measures will continue without let-up,” Carlos said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960184
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday termed as unfortunate the termination made by the New People’s Army (NPA) of its unilateral ceasefire.
”It is unfortunate that the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its military arm, the NPA, had terminated the unilateral ceasefire it declared last year,” said PNP Public Information Office (PIO) chief and spokesman Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos in a statement.
Carlos said that despite this development and its possible implications to internal security, the PNP will continue to observe a suspension of offensive police operations (SOPO) to honor the Philippine government’s own declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the CPP/NPA/NDF (National Democratic Front).
The PNP official said that with a SOPO notwithstanding, the National Headquarters has alerted all PNP units to remain vigilant and to maintain a high state of operational readiness to respond to hostile actions by domestic threat groups.
”Specifically, PNP units will be on alert for possible movement of armed CPP/NPA members who will take advantage of the SOPO to reposition and regroup; and to engage in unlawful activities,” Carlos said.
He noted it must be understood that this SOPO does not cover normal law enforcement operations and shall be implemented without prejudice to actions aimed at protecting the people and the communities, as well as PNP troops and installations against insurgent or terrorist attacks that may take place during the SOPO period.
”As such, normal police function such as service of warrants of arrest, checkpoint operations, and other routine security measures will continue without let-up,” Carlos said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960184
Bello: CPP-NPA unilateral truce withdrawal an 'unpleasant surprise'
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Bello: CPP-NPA unilateral truce withdrawal an 'unpleasant surprise'
The government’s chief peace negotiator on Wednesday said the decision of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) to terminate its interim ceasefire came as an ‘unpleasant surprise,’ coming just a week after the third round of peace talks in Rome.
In a press briefing at the House of Representatives, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said they were surprised with the turn of events since there was prior agreement between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) to meet again later in the month.
The government and NDF panels met in Rome last January 19-25 which ended with both sides giving assurance that their separate unilateral ceasefire would hold pending their upcoming talks.
“It was an unpleasant surprise since all the while, our scheduled meeting on February 22-25 in the Netherlands is solely for the purpose of upgrading the existing separate ceasefires into that of a bilateral ceasefire,” Bello said.
Earlier Wednesday, the Communist rebels said the unilateral ceasefire that they declared last August 28, 2016 will be terminated effective February 10.
Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, spokesman of the National Operations Command of the NPA, said the termination was due to the alleged non-compliance of the government in the release and amnesty of political prisoners and the alleged “encroachment of government on rebel territory.”
The Armed Forces of the Philippines likewise accused the communist rebels of violating their own truce by staging attacks and extortion activities.
However, Bello said the accusations from both sides has made it more imperative for the government and the NDF to hammer out a bilateral ceasefire agreement and said that he would advise President Rodrigo Duterte to continue with the ongoing talks.
“These developments merely underscore the need to come out with a bilateral ceasefire agreement so that you will know when an act will constitute a hostile act or when an act will constitute a violation of the ceasefire agreement,” he said.
Bello said that the February talks would focus on just that -- setting the parameters and terms of reference for the ceasefire agreement.
“Nobody could accuse anybody of violation because there is no basis. But more importantly, without a bilateral ceasefire agreement, who will decide on what constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement?” he said.
“It is important that both parties discuss and agree to the terms and conditions of a bilateral ceasefire agreement. We have to provide the peace talks with an atmosphere that is conducive to the conduct of the peace negotiations. That what we hope to achieve on February 22-25,” Bello said.
In the meantime, the government’s representative to the ceasefire committee said that the CPP-NPA unilateral truce withdrawal is only a temporary setback.
“The future is not bleak as peace talks is concerned,” Hernani Braganza said in the same press briefing.
He said that both sides should take advantage of the 10-day grace period provided before the actual truce termination of the communist rebels.
“We need to use this window to try and figure things out,” he said.
“It is also a good thing that President Duterte has not withdrawn the government’s own ceasefire declaration,” Braganza said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960249
The government’s chief peace negotiator on Wednesday said the decision of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) to terminate its interim ceasefire came as an ‘unpleasant surprise,’ coming just a week after the third round of peace talks in Rome.
In a press briefing at the House of Representatives, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said they were surprised with the turn of events since there was prior agreement between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) to meet again later in the month.
The government and NDF panels met in Rome last January 19-25 which ended with both sides giving assurance that their separate unilateral ceasefire would hold pending their upcoming talks.
“It was an unpleasant surprise since all the while, our scheduled meeting on February 22-25 in the Netherlands is solely for the purpose of upgrading the existing separate ceasefires into that of a bilateral ceasefire,” Bello said.
Earlier Wednesday, the Communist rebels said the unilateral ceasefire that they declared last August 28, 2016 will be terminated effective February 10.
Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, spokesman of the National Operations Command of the NPA, said the termination was due to the alleged non-compliance of the government in the release and amnesty of political prisoners and the alleged “encroachment of government on rebel territory.”
The Armed Forces of the Philippines likewise accused the communist rebels of violating their own truce by staging attacks and extortion activities.
However, Bello said the accusations from both sides has made it more imperative for the government and the NDF to hammer out a bilateral ceasefire agreement and said that he would advise President Rodrigo Duterte to continue with the ongoing talks.
“These developments merely underscore the need to come out with a bilateral ceasefire agreement so that you will know when an act will constitute a hostile act or when an act will constitute a violation of the ceasefire agreement,” he said.
Bello said that the February talks would focus on just that -- setting the parameters and terms of reference for the ceasefire agreement.
“Nobody could accuse anybody of violation because there is no basis. But more importantly, without a bilateral ceasefire agreement, who will decide on what constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement?” he said.
“It is important that both parties discuss and agree to the terms and conditions of a bilateral ceasefire agreement. We have to provide the peace talks with an atmosphere that is conducive to the conduct of the peace negotiations. That what we hope to achieve on February 22-25,” Bello said.
In the meantime, the government’s representative to the ceasefire committee said that the CPP-NPA unilateral truce withdrawal is only a temporary setback.
“The future is not bleak as peace talks is concerned,” Hernani Braganza said in the same press briefing.
He said that both sides should take advantage of the 10-day grace period provided before the actual truce termination of the communist rebels.
“We need to use this window to try and figure things out,” he said.
“It is also a good thing that President Duterte has not withdrawn the government’s own ceasefire declaration,” Braganza said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960249
Military officer killed in encounter with 'ALG' in Davao Oriental
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Military officer killed in encounter with 'ALG' in Davao Oriental
A military officer was killed following an encounter with members of an "armed lawless groups" (ALGs) in Manay town, Davao Oriental Wednesday afternoon.
Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division public affairs officer, said the slain officer was with a joint military-police team responding to reports of ALGs who were threatening residents of Barangay Lambog, of the above-mentioned town, when the clash took place.
In the ensuing firefight, the still unidentified officer was killed while his companions managed to drive away the bandits who left behind a M-16 automatic rifle.
Major Gen. Rafael C. Valencia, 10th Infantry Division commander, said they will continue to abide by the suspension of offensive operations but will not stop in providing security to the people being harassed and intimidated by these lawless elements.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960247
A military officer was killed following an encounter with members of an "armed lawless groups" (ALGs) in Manay town, Davao Oriental Wednesday afternoon.
Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division public affairs officer, said the slain officer was with a joint military-police team responding to reports of ALGs who were threatening residents of Barangay Lambog, of the above-mentioned town, when the clash took place.
In the ensuing firefight, the still unidentified officer was killed while his companions managed to drive away the bandits who left behind a M-16 automatic rifle.
Major Gen. Rafael C. Valencia, 10th Infantry Division commander, said they will continue to abide by the suspension of offensive operations but will not stop in providing security to the people being harassed and intimidated by these lawless elements.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960247
Pres. Duterte urges soldiers to limit children to 3
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 1): Pres. Duterte urges soldiers to limit children to 3
Expressing his deep concerns to children who were left to custody of widowed mothers due to war, President Rodrigo Duterte has underscored the need for an average soldier to have only two to three children.
"You should also teach them family planning. It should be programmed already. The most, an average soldier should have only three (children). That’s boundary," the President said during traditional dinner with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Council of Sergeants Major last Tuesday night.
President Duterte said some of the wounded in action soldiers he visited in different military hospitals throughout the country have up to eight children each.
"I pity the human being specially the widow. So we have to come up with this program," the President said.
The President said children of the soldiers killed in action should have free education from elementary to college.
"I can’t wait for the law to be passed. We have no money but we have reserve. But the expenses that we have to meet, the challenges of expenditures, is to be collected," Duterte, a soldier’s son, said.
He said the soldiers’ widows should automatically be given job or livelihood to support their children.
"Usually, DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) is in charge of that. Casual or whatever, what is important is they have work in the near government office," the President said.
"Aside from work, I will include them also to our 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) so that they have additional food and money," he added.
President Duterte also emphasized the need to keep the morale of the soldiers high by addressing all their needs particularly in sending children to schools, health care and even financial.
The President said the proposed compensation adjustment packaged will increased by 40 percent on the average for all ranks.
"There has to be something on the table. So these are the things that we would like to accomplish as we go along the way," he said.
Meanwhile, President Duterte reiterated his promise to provide every soldier a caliber 45 Glock.
"I have decided to arm everybody and I have already ordered thousands. I will spend billions but since I promised the soldiers, I will really comply with it,” the President said, drawing applause from his audience.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960268
Expressing his deep concerns to children who were left to custody of widowed mothers due to war, President Rodrigo Duterte has underscored the need for an average soldier to have only two to three children.
"You should also teach them family planning. It should be programmed already. The most, an average soldier should have only three (children). That’s boundary," the President said during traditional dinner with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Council of Sergeants Major last Tuesday night.
President Duterte said some of the wounded in action soldiers he visited in different military hospitals throughout the country have up to eight children each.
"I pity the human being specially the widow. So we have to come up with this program," the President said.
The President said children of the soldiers killed in action should have free education from elementary to college.
"I can’t wait for the law to be passed. We have no money but we have reserve. But the expenses that we have to meet, the challenges of expenditures, is to be collected," Duterte, a soldier’s son, said.
He said the soldiers’ widows should automatically be given job or livelihood to support their children.
"Usually, DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) is in charge of that. Casual or whatever, what is important is they have work in the near government office," the President said.
"Aside from work, I will include them also to our 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) so that they have additional food and money," he added.
President Duterte also emphasized the need to keep the morale of the soldiers high by addressing all their needs particularly in sending children to schools, health care and even financial.
The President said the proposed compensation adjustment packaged will increased by 40 percent on the average for all ranks.
"There has to be something on the table. So these are the things that we would like to accomplish as we go along the way," he said.
Meanwhile, President Duterte reiterated his promise to provide every soldier a caliber 45 Glock.
"I have decided to arm everybody and I have already ordered thousands. I will spend billions but since I promised the soldiers, I will really comply with it,” the President said, drawing applause from his audience.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=960268
NDF: NPA now on “active defense mode” against aggressive AFP and PNP operations
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Jan 31): NPA now on “active defense mode” against aggressive AFP and PNP operations
NDFP Media Office
Press statement
Fidel V. Agcaoili
NDFP Negotiating Panel Chair
January 31, 2017
Secretary Jesus Dureza has, in a recent statement, expressed distress over recent reports of clashes between the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
We declare that as of today, there have been no orders from the CPP-NPA leadership to revoke its unilateral ceasefire declaration. The CPP-NPA’s unilateral ceasefire remains in place.
What the reported skirmishes indicate is that the GRP military and police have become even more aggressive after their “success” in the Makilala, North Cotabato incident where they violated their own ceasefire by mounting a day-long offensive against an NPA unit and attacked the latter in its encampment, killing a Red fighter. It also means that given the AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP)’s increasing incursions and attacks on communities, the NPA has been obliged to take an active defense posture to defend and protect the communities and its forces.
The NPA’s active defense posture is consistent with the guidelines issued by the NPA National Operational Command when it declared its unilateral ceasefire. The only reason why there have been no clashes prior to the Makilala incident is because the NPA forces went beyond the NPA-NOC’s guidelines by exercising maximum restraint and maneuvering to avoid firefights with the aggressor troops. For a full five months, marauding AFP and PNP troops and their paramilitary forces entered and terrorized the communities and disrupted the people’s economic activities without incident.
If armed clashes have now occurred between the AFP/PNP and the NPA, it is because intensified armed provocations from increasingly emboldened GRP military, paramilitary and police forces have given the NPA no choice but to actively defend its forces and the people.
It will be recalled that EASTMINCOM Commander Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, during the command’s 10th anniversary celebrations, even boasted that because of the ceasefire, his command was able to clear 115 barangays of NPA influence in their area of operations. In Southern Tagalog, soldiers conducting similar “clearing operations” have been telling the peasant masses that state military and police forces were now free to enter the guerrilla zones because they were confident that the NPA would not attack them.
The AFP has been most aggressively using the ceasefire to provoke the NPA and conduct psywar operations against the NPA and the people. The NPA has been exercising maximum restraint in the face of these provocations and “base denial” operations of the AFP under the guise of “peace and development activities.” In these “peace and development activities,” GRP soldiers force residents to confess to their involvement in the revolutionary movement and inform on their fellow villagers.
They are then presented as “rebel surrenderees” after which the barrio is proclaimed as “insurgency-free”.
Secretary Dureza should remember that the NDFP’s unilateral ceasefire declaration was in response to the GRP’s promise of substantial releases of the sick, elderly, women and long-held detainees, as well as the withdrawal of the military from communities, the fulfillment of which would have laid the firm basis for a more stable ceasefire and encouraged further the acceleration of the peace negotiations.
In the face of all this, the NDFP reiterates that the revolutionary forces on the ground remain fully supportive of the peace process. We remain committed to push the peace negotiations forward.
Secretary Dureza should note that we have had three rounds of formal talks (with another round scheduled in April 2017) in which we have made considerable advances towards forging the comprehensive agreement on social and economic reforms in order to meet the deadline set this year. We have also succeeded in exchanging tentative drafts for the comprehensive agreement on political and constitutional reforms.
We strongly advise Secretary Dureza not to raise the bogey of disunity among the ranks of the revolutionary movement. The last time the GRP did this was in 2005 and 2006, when then AFP chief Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. spread the lie that the state-sponsored extrajudicial killings and involuntary disappearances of activists, innocent civilians and revolutionaries were the result of purges inside the movement. Esperon’s lie was exposed when UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Killings Hon. Philip Alston declared Esperon’s allegation as false or “strikingly unconvincing” and a “cynical attempt to displace responsibility.”
The NDFP shall hold the GRP responsible for anything untoward that may happen to the ongoing peace negotiations as a result of its bellicose statements on the actions of the NPA to defend itself and protect communities after the Makilala incident.
https://www.ndfp.org/npa-now-active-defense-mode-aggressive-afp-pnp-operations/
NDFP Media Office
Press statement
Fidel V. Agcaoili
NDFP Negotiating Panel Chair
January 31, 2017
Secretary Jesus Dureza has, in a recent statement, expressed distress over recent reports of clashes between the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
We declare that as of today, there have been no orders from the CPP-NPA leadership to revoke its unilateral ceasefire declaration. The CPP-NPA’s unilateral ceasefire remains in place.
What the reported skirmishes indicate is that the GRP military and police have become even more aggressive after their “success” in the Makilala, North Cotabato incident where they violated their own ceasefire by mounting a day-long offensive against an NPA unit and attacked the latter in its encampment, killing a Red fighter. It also means that given the AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP)’s increasing incursions and attacks on communities, the NPA has been obliged to take an active defense posture to defend and protect the communities and its forces.
The NPA’s active defense posture is consistent with the guidelines issued by the NPA National Operational Command when it declared its unilateral ceasefire. The only reason why there have been no clashes prior to the Makilala incident is because the NPA forces went beyond the NPA-NOC’s guidelines by exercising maximum restraint and maneuvering to avoid firefights with the aggressor troops. For a full five months, marauding AFP and PNP troops and their paramilitary forces entered and terrorized the communities and disrupted the people’s economic activities without incident.
If armed clashes have now occurred between the AFP/PNP and the NPA, it is because intensified armed provocations from increasingly emboldened GRP military, paramilitary and police forces have given the NPA no choice but to actively defend its forces and the people.
It will be recalled that EASTMINCOM Commander Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, during the command’s 10th anniversary celebrations, even boasted that because of the ceasefire, his command was able to clear 115 barangays of NPA influence in their area of operations. In Southern Tagalog, soldiers conducting similar “clearing operations” have been telling the peasant masses that state military and police forces were now free to enter the guerrilla zones because they were confident that the NPA would not attack them.
The AFP has been most aggressively using the ceasefire to provoke the NPA and conduct psywar operations against the NPA and the people. The NPA has been exercising maximum restraint in the face of these provocations and “base denial” operations of the AFP under the guise of “peace and development activities.” In these “peace and development activities,” GRP soldiers force residents to confess to their involvement in the revolutionary movement and inform on their fellow villagers.
They are then presented as “rebel surrenderees” after which the barrio is proclaimed as “insurgency-free”.
Secretary Dureza should remember that the NDFP’s unilateral ceasefire declaration was in response to the GRP’s promise of substantial releases of the sick, elderly, women and long-held detainees, as well as the withdrawal of the military from communities, the fulfillment of which would have laid the firm basis for a more stable ceasefire and encouraged further the acceleration of the peace negotiations.
In the face of all this, the NDFP reiterates that the revolutionary forces on the ground remain fully supportive of the peace process. We remain committed to push the peace negotiations forward.
Secretary Dureza should note that we have had three rounds of formal talks (with another round scheduled in April 2017) in which we have made considerable advances towards forging the comprehensive agreement on social and economic reforms in order to meet the deadline set this year. We have also succeeded in exchanging tentative drafts for the comprehensive agreement on political and constitutional reforms.
We strongly advise Secretary Dureza not to raise the bogey of disunity among the ranks of the revolutionary movement. The last time the GRP did this was in 2005 and 2006, when then AFP chief Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. spread the lie that the state-sponsored extrajudicial killings and involuntary disappearances of activists, innocent civilians and revolutionaries were the result of purges inside the movement. Esperon’s lie was exposed when UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Killings Hon. Philip Alston declared Esperon’s allegation as false or “strikingly unconvincing” and a “cynical attempt to displace responsibility.”
The NDFP shall hold the GRP responsible for anything untoward that may happen to the ongoing peace negotiations as a result of its bellicose statements on the actions of the NPA to defend itself and protect communities after the Makilala incident.
https://www.ndfp.org/npa-now-active-defense-mode-aggressive-afp-pnp-operations/