Southern Philippines: Echoes of peace

From Al Jazeera (Feb 11): Southern Philippines: Echoes of peace

The Muslim struggle for autonomy seemed to reach its peak in the 70s when the Moro National Liberation Front, or MNLF, under Nur Misuari signed a peace deal with the Philippine government then led by the dictator Ferdinand Marcos.



 "They say so much… and accomplish nothing ..."

The almost-whispered words of the weary 24-year-old warrior reverberated in the sweltering heat of the marshland morning, its hollow echo like ghosts of all the fallen in this scarred land ... striking in their silence.

He looked away, but his words hung in the air like flies around a corpse.

As a Muslim, Norodin feels he was born into this war in the southern Philippines. His father was a separatist fighter before him, so he too joined the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, or MILF.

He knew little else.

Many others share his story. Feeling victim to an inherited conflict.

Oldest battles

It’s one of the longest-running insurgencies in the world - nearly 40 years of struggling for an autonomous Islamic region within the majority Christian nation. The battle itself is even older than he is.

And it didn’t start with the MILF.

There have been Muslims in the Philippines since long before the archipelagic nation was put together under Spanish colonial rule in the 16th century. That's also when Christianity was brought to the islands. The faiths co-existed for centuries ... then the armed separatist conflict broke out when the country, as a whole, headed towards independence from colonial rule.

The Muslim struggle for autonomy seemed to reach its peak in the 70s when the Moro National Liberation Front, or MNLF, under Nur Misuari, signed a peace deal with the Philippine government then led by the dictator Ferdinand Marcos. That same deal has yet to be fully implemented, and is still facing revisions.

It was in the 70s that the MILF was born – splintering off from Misuari, unhappy with the details of his brokered peace.

Now the MILF itself has been trying to strike its own agreement with the government.

It's been trying for more than 10 years. In that time, its original leader passed away, and his successor appears unable to keep the group together. When the last round of talks fell through in 2008, men called "rogue elements" of the MILF went on a rampage through several Christian villages. The government has been unable to arrest the perpetrators, and the MILF, promising to deal with it an as internal matter, has also failed to do much about it.

'Absurd'

Tired and confused yet? Many Filipinos are. The 20th round of peace talks began on February 7, and it barely even hit the local news ... exacerbating not just rampant ignorance of the issues, but also many Filipino Muslims' feelings of isolation and insignificance.

But Misuari, still the MNLF chairman, told Al Jazeera the fact that the government is even negotiating a peace with the splinter group is "an absurdity". He acknowledged the failures of his own more than 30-year-old peace deal, but says it seemed designed that way on purpose by the government.

To "confuse" the Bangsamoro (Muslim) nation, and make it impossible for autonomy to ever work.
Misuari tells the story of how on the day they finally agreed a deal, the government negotiator told him separate talks would be started with the off-shoot MILF. "It was tantamount to sabotage," Misuari said.

The government has denied this and insists it is serious about establishing a sustainable peace in the most restive, and underdeveloped, region of the country. But fewer and fewer of the Bangsamoro believe it.

Diminishing returns
Norodin definitely doesn't. He doesn’t believe in the leaders of the MILF any more either ... calling them "detached" and "ineffective". Feeling disheartened and frustrated, he turned his back on the MILF and pledged his allegiance to Misuari's MNLF. Some 300 of his men went with him. "Returned to the fold," as Misuari sees it.

The seeming crisis of confidence is believed to have emaciated the MILF's 12,000 ground troops by three-fourths ... half allegedly re-joining the MNLF. The rest are said to have taken advantage of the disorder and turned their guns on each other ... fighting age-old family feuds instead of wider political ones.

"What is this?" Norodin asked himself when his comrades ran amok in 2008. "How are we going to be peaceful if we can't stop this? Our other colleagues were destructive – how will we have peace here if we ourselves don't have any unity in what we do?"

The MILF insists it has the situation "under control", that there is "no problem" with its ground forces ... and that there is no threat of a vacuum in the group's leadership. Not helping matters is the recurring rumour of the MILF leader's ailing health.

Question and answer
When the MILF leaders are asked how many troops they have under their command, they rarely give a straight answer – for security reasons, they say. But it seems the truth is more likely that they no longer know.

Misuari believes painful lessons have finally been learned by the returnees. Among them that it is better to work towards implementing a peace already signed as opposed to struggling to forge a new one.

A vacuum may indeed be developing within the MILF - but it may not be from on top, as many had feared, but from lower in the organisation. Soon, the group's leaders may find themselves standing alone ... and if that is the case - Misuari's questions remain: who exactly is the government talking peace with? And why?

http://www.aljazeera.com/blogs/asia/2011/02/southern-philippines-echoes-peace-170215081432746.html

Philippines says Japan offers patrol ships in anti-piracy effort

Posted to Asahi Shimbun (Feb 15): Philippines says Japan offers patrol ships in anti-piracy effort

Japan has offered to send patrol ships to deal with a growing piracy threat in the southern Philippine waters bordering Indonesia and Malaysia, a senior Philippine defense official said on Tuesday.

A surge in piracy off parts of the southern Philippines is forcing ship-owners to divert vessels through other waters, pushing up costs and shipping times. Dozens of sailors have been taken captive by Abu Sayyaf.

Japanese Vice Minister Ro Manabe offered the assistance at a meeting in Tokyo on Friday and expressed readiness to contribute to efforts by the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia "in addressing piracy and terrorism," said Raymund Quilop, assistant defense minister for assessments and international affairs.

A senior Japanese Defense Ministry official, however, gave a different account of the Tokyo meeting and said no offer of patrols was made to the Philippines, just "capacity building."

Leaders from the two countries agreed last fall that Japan would give the Philippines high-speed small boats for its counter-terrorism efforts, but it was not clear if that was part of the apparent offer made by Manabe.

Efforts by the Philippines to strengthen its security ties with Japan come as it seeks to diversify defense relations that are traditionally aligned with the United States, to include Russia and China also.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte last month asked Beijing to send its ships to thwart piracy by the Islamic State-linked Abu Sayyaf. China has yet to issue a response to that request.

China has also been in discussions about defense-related loans for purchasing its arms. It will donate $14 million (1.6 billion yen) worth of unspecified military equipment, for which Manila has submitted a wish-list, and has made available $500 million in loans for planes and ships.

Russia has offered to sell the Philippines anything it wanted, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said last week.

The Philippines late last year made an agreement with Indonesia and Malaysia to chase down Islamist militants and pirates in the Sulu and Celebes Sea.

Abu Sayyaf is holding captive 27 foreigners and Filipinos on the southern island of Jolo. The foreigners include six Vietnamese, a Dutchman, a German and a Japanese national.

Ricardo David, deputy defense minister, told reporters that two of five TC-90 surveillance planes leased from Japan will be transferred to Manila next month to help patrol the South China Sea as well as waters in the south.

http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201702150017.html

Jihadists kill 7 in Lanao operation

From the Manila Times (Feb 17): Jihadists kill 7 in Lanao operation

MARAWI CITY: Two Army intelligence officers and five civilians were killed while another soldier was wounded on late Thursday afternoon when operatives encountered members of a jihadist group at this urban area in the village of Lilod-Madaya in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

The international jihadists group claimed responsibility for the attack saying the “Islamic State (IS) fighters attacked them,” the IS’s Amaq news agency said in its bulletin on Friday.

Military officials said agents from the Military Intelligence Groups 10 (MIG-10) and the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) were aboard a silver Isuzu Crosswind at about 4:17 p.m., when they encountered the suspected “local terrorist group ” that triggered a 10-minute a firefight.

Identified only as Maj. Mangalus and Cpl. Libot, the two officers were killed in action while the wounded was named only as Sgt. Cartilla. They were immediately brought to Amai Pakpak Hospital.

The military believed the jihadists suffered severe casualties.

The victims were on a mission to gather intelligence about the Maute group and Abu Sayyaf rebels who are actively operating in Lanao.

Meanwhile, the city police on Friday were investigating the case of five dead civilians whose cadavers were found near the clash site.

They were believed killed in a crossfire during the clashes, local police officials said.

http://www.manilatimes.net/jihadists-kill-7-lanao-operation/312781/

Police, Army foil extortion attempt vs Gen. Santos City-based bus firm

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 17): Police, Army foil extortion attempt vs Gen. Santos City-based bus firm

Police and military operatives foiled an attempt by an extortion group to mulct the lone bus firm plying the Cotabato City-Maguindanao-Gen. Santos City route and arrested a man during entrapment operation Friday, police said.

The suspect was to receive a PHP1 million extortion money he demanded from Biocrest Multi-Purpose Cooperative when lawmen arrested him at past 9 a.m. in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town in Maguindanao.

Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, Sultan Kudarat provincial police director, identified the suspect as 43-year-old Jerry Ibrahim, a resident of Datu Saudi town. He was nabbed while in the act of receiving from a courier a package that actually contained a few bills and dummy papers.

Supiter said the entrapment was successful due to the cooperation of the firm's management with the police authorities.

Ibrahim has repeatedly threatened the bus firm of burning its units plying the Gen. Santos City-Cotabato City route if his demand for a PHP1-million monthly protection money was ignored.

Upon receipt of the demand, the bus firm cooperated with Sultan Kudarat PNP. Supiter coordinated with the Maguindanao police office and the Army's 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion in the entrapment operation.

"The bus firm's cooperation with the security officers led to the arrest of the suspect," Supiter said, adding Ibrahim is now in police custody awaiting charges of extortion.

The bus operator lauded the successful police operation and vowed to continue cooperating with authorities against lawless elements.

Supiter said investigators are still determining what group Ibrahim belonged to. But the al-Khobar extortion group is operating in Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces, prying on bus firms and multi-national companies.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=965027

Pres. Duterte recognizes 14 soldiers injured in mine explosion

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 18): Pres. Duterte recognizes 14 soldiers injured in mine explosion

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal to 14 soldiers who were injured in a landmine explosion during a pursuit and clearing operation against members of the New People's Army (NPA).

The President visited the soldiers at the Camp Panacan Station Hospital at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan and presented them the medal for putting their lives at risk while fighting the NPA rebels.

Recognized were Cpl. Ben Jon Soratos, Cpl. Jo Mark Accad, Cpl. Allan Aguilar, Cpl. Abelardo Suela Jr., Cpl. Rey Danaytan, Pfc. Kevin Nuesca, Pfc. Paul John Aromin, Pfc. Dominic Alegado, Pfc. Marlon Soriano, Pfc. John Tecson, Pfc. Celso Oliveros Neri Jr., Pfc. Alvin Omagtang, Pvt. Noel Ramos and 2Lt. Harvey Kyl Escora. They were also given cash assistance and cellular phones.

Two soldiers were killed during the explosion -- Cpl.Michael Yadao and Pvt. Vilmel Damondon.

The explosion took place in Barangay Lamanan, Calinan district last Feb. 16, where the soldiers were stationed as part of the Charlie and Alpha companies and Scout Platoon of the 3rd Infantry Battalion.

According to reports, the encounter occurred when members of the NPA Pulang Bagani Command 1 under alias Jinggoy, and Pulang Bagani Command 2 under alias Lando attacked the soldiers in Davao city's second and third districts last Thursday.

At about 5:30 a.m., the rebels attacked a military detachment in Malabog, Paquibato district, during which one rebel was killed. At about noontime, the NPA attacked civilian communities and burned down equipment at a pineapple plantation in Baguio district.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines believes the series of attacks perpetrated by the rebel group were retaliations for the death of a comrade in a recent encounter in Paquibato.

https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591&pli=1#editor/target=post;postID=6240903334464117545

News Briefs: NPA captures two militiamen in Davao Oriental

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 18): News Briefs: NPA captures two militiamen in Davao Oriental

The communist New People’s Army (NPA) said it captured two more militiamen in Lupon town of Davao Oriental on Tuesday, bringing to seven the number of government troops in their custody since January this year.

Rigoberto Sanchez, NPA Southern Mindanao spokesperson, said the NPA captured militiamen Rene Doller, 34, and Carl Mark Nucos, 24, both of the 72nd Infantry Battallion in a checkpoint the rebels set up in Barangay Don Mariano in Lupon, Davao Oriental, on Feb. 14.

Sanchez said his group had been treating their captives well.

This developed as NPA rebels in Central Mindanao assured that Pvt. 1st Class Samuel Garay and Sergeant Solaiman Calocop, whom the rebels captured in Colombio, Sultan Kudarat on Feb. 1, were alive and well.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/872725/news-briefs-2-soldiers-killed-in-landmine-attack-in-davao-city

News Briefs: 2 soldiers killed in landmine attack in Davao City

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 18): News Briefs: 2 soldiers killed in landmine attack in Davao City
Two soldiers were killed while 15 others were injured in Davao City on Thursday after their convoy hit a landmine of the New People’s Army (NPA), the military said yesterday.

The slain soldiers were identified as Cpl.   Michael D. Yadao and Pvt. Virnel M. Damondon.

Two NPA rebels were also killed in the encounter.

The military said the soldiers were pursuing armed men who burned down a pineapple harvester owned by Del Monte in Calinan District, Davao City, when their convoy hit a landmine at around 4 p.m. along the boundary of Barangay Lacson and Barangay Lamanan.

A firefight ensued.  Responding troops recovered a pistol, a garand rifle, two improvised explosive devices and materials needed to make  a landmine.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/872725/news-briefs-2-soldiers-killed-in-landmine-attack-in-davao-city

ARMM execs urge clerics to help fight extremism

From the Philippine Star (Feb 17): ARMM execs urge clerics to help fight extremism



Islamic militancy was a major topic in the meeting in Cotabato City on Thursday of the security council of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Philstar.com/John Unson

Officials want to extensively involve clerics in thwarting the alarming spread in Mindanao of jihadist blocs in the fashion of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). 

Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu, Basilan Gov. Jim Hataman and Lanao del Sur Vice Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. separately recommended the enlistment of clerics in pacification efforts on Thursday during a meeting in Cotabato City of the security council of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Mangudadatu told ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman, chairperson of the inter-agency regional peace and order council (RPOC), it is good to tap the support of Imams in mosques and missionaries in Madrasah schools in preventing the spread of ISIS-inspired groups in the local communities.

“There are only few, very few people out there propagating this kind of ideology. There are more preachers out there who are moderate in their views and do not want extremists whose practices are against the teachings of Islam,” Mangudadatu said.

Mangudadatu said casting undue aspersions on spiritually upright Islamic theologians and lumping them together with fanatical jihadists can only complicate and worsen the problem.

Hataman, who has ministerial control over the Regional Police Office-ARMM and the region’s local government department, said he can embark on extensive summits with local Islamic theologians to build consensus on how they can help in the government’s campaign against Islamic militancy.

Major Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander of the western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga City, said religious extremism in Mindanao is now a serious problem confronting the government, next to the narcotics issue besetting the region.

Galvez said there are now 26 fanatical jihadist cells in Lanao del Sur that are linked 25 other fraternal cells in central Mindanao.

Lanao del Sur and provinces in central Mindanao are covered by an interim ceasefire accord between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“Some of those who have joined these extremists groups have relatives in the MILF and the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front),” Galvez said.

He said while many leaders of both fronts have actively been helping the government prevent the entry of extremists in areas they control, there are jihadists who still manage to hide in recognized guerilla camps without them knowing.

“These are intelligent young people who come from popular and wealthy clans. They are the kind we least expect to become terrorists,” Galvez said.

Adiong, a member of the Lanao del Sur provincial peace and order council, said there is also a need to evaluate the government’s approach in neutralizing the Maute terror group now wrecking havoc in his province.

Adiong, governor of Lanao del Sur for three consecutive terms prior to his election as vice governor of the province, said the Maute group, also known as the Dawlah Islamiya, could be open to a dialogue with the government.

The Maute group boasts of loyalty to the ISIS and is even using its black flag as revolutionary banner, which Moro recruits kiss as part of an initiation rite for admission in its fold.

“It’s been about two months since I notified some government officials about it. I’m still waiting for them to respond,” Adiong said.

Mayor Dimnatang Pansar of Butig town in Lanao del Sur, where the Maute group first emerged and establish a “shadow government,” said the military’s recent artillery and air attacks against the group could only achieve temporary positive results.

“They leave the areas they occupy whenever there are military offensives and then return after the soldiers have left,” Pansar said.

Pansar said he and his constituent-leaders want the deployment of at least a battalion of soldiers in the municipality to prevent terrorists from returning to the villages they had used as takeoff areas for their activities.

Galvez committed to deploy a battalion of soldiers in Butig to be scattered in areas frequented by terrorists led by siblings Abdullah and Omar Maute, founders of the Maute group.

Adiong and Pansar had both insinuated that the ongoing infrastructure projects of the ARMM government in Butig can help hasten the efforts of curtailing the influence on local residents of the Maute group.

Misguided jihadists are known for their eloquence in stoking public hatred to government using poverty and underdevelopment as pitch.

The ARMM government has more than P50 million worth of current infrastructure projects in Butig.

Hataman, who is overseeing the operations of the ARMM’s public works department, said his administration is ready to allocate funds, from the region’s 2018 infrastructure subsidy, for more projects in Butig to be implemented after 2017.

The RPOC’s meeting on Thursday, the first for 2017, was also attended by members of ARMM’s 24-seat Regional Legislative Assembly, Maguindanao’s provincial prosecutor Rohaira Lao, Bryan Babang, director for ARMM of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore Sindac of the regional police office.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/02/17/1673150/armm-execs-urge-clerics-help-fight-extremism

DWDD: Army Troops Scores Against NPA Rebels in Northern Samar

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Feb 17): Army Troops Scores Against NPA Rebels in Northern Samar




CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY –  Troops of 43^rd Infantry Battalion, 8ID, PA led by 1Lt. Edsel Ryan B. Celebre engaged NPA rebels under their leader Salvador Nordan a.k.a “Badok” while conducting combat operations against lawless elements at Sitio Cabaywa, Brgy. Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar on February 14, 2017.    

 

The fire fight lasted for about five minutes that resulted to one (1) NPA killed identified as Bernadette Lutao a.k.a. “Kakan”, the wife of “Badok,” and the recovery of one (1) improvised explosive device (IED) and three (3) cellular phones. 

 

The use of IED is restricted under the United Nations Geneva Convention because of its indiscriminate effects and humanitarian harm it can cause to innocent civilians as well as a violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the CPP-NPA-NDF.

 

In a statement by Maj. General Raul M. Farnacio, he said that the NPAs have been using IEDs as of their weapons of choice without consideration on the welfare of the civilian populace.  “The NPA has been deliberately violating the human rights with their production and employment of IEDs and their continuous disruption of the peaceful lives of our fellow Filipinos especially those in the far-flung barangays,” he stated.

 

This accomplishment is a triumph for the collective effort of the local government unit and agencies, 8ID, and our civilian constituents to attain just and lasting peace in Northern Samar.  Filipinos want peace and it is high time for our fellow Filipinos who were misled to join the NPA to lay down their arms and lead their lives away from armed struggle,” Farnacio urged. 

 

Since the lifting of the ceasefire by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, 8ID troops have been conducting security operations in the region as part of their mandate.  “Rest assured that your Army in Eastern Visayas are tirelessly committed to serve and secure the people within the bounds of respect of Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law, and Rule of Law,“ Farnacio added.   

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/02/17/army-troops-scores-against-npa-rebels-in-northern-samar/

MNLF IIO: Photos: MNLF in Action

Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front International Information Office Facebook Page (Feb 15): Photos: MNLF in Action

MNLF in action removing water hyacinths in Datu Piang Bridge , lead by Western Kutawato State Revolutionary Committee, Chairman Datuwata Utto Aziz , Rapid Deployment Forces, National Guard and Zone of Peace 1 Staff.

 

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1088094754634659&set=pcb.1088094891301312&type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1088094774634657&set=pcb.1088094891301312&type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1088094837967984&set=pcb.1088094891301312&type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/

MILF: Maguindanao POLCOM holds 3rd Annual Assembly

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Feb 17): Maguindanao POLCOM holds 3rd Annual Assembly

Maguindanao Political Committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) held its 3rd Annual Assembly with a theme “Maguindanao POLCOM: One Stand on Strengthening the CAB Implementation” last February 13, 2017 at Camp Darapanan Perimeter Defense, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

More than 600 Political Committee officers and members were in attendance led by Ustadz Munzir Salahuddin, PolCom Chairman of Province of Maguindanao.
lso in attendance were the Executive Officers and the 12 Sectoral Representatives of the 9 Municipal Political Committees and some Barrio Political Committees. 

The session started with the reading of some verses of the Noble Qur’an followed by opening remarks.

Ghazali Jaafar, MILF 1st Vice Chairman talked about “The Status of the Bangsamoro Struggle vis-à-vis the Expanded BTC”. He related the more than 400 long years of Bangsamaoro struggle against Spain, America, and the Philippine Colonial Government.

He also discussed the reconstitution of the BTC and named the commissioners. Questions and answers followed.

The next resource speaker, Hadji Nor, a representative of Finance Committee, MILF Central Committee explained the techniques/strategies on “How to strengthen the collection of Zakat and Sadaqah”.
   
Thereafter, certificates were given to deserving Municipal Political Committees on the basis of their “Sadaqah collection” and in recognition of the “smooth implementation of MILF Governance” in their respective AOR.

In the afternoon, Mohagher Iqbal, Chair of the MILF Peace Implementing Team delved on “Updates of GPH-MILF Negotiation vis-à-vis the Implementation of the Agreed Documents”. He emphasized the need for unity of Bangsamoro people to attain their aspiration. He also discussed the three (3) aspects of Implementation of the Agreed Documents.

Questions raised flooded the open forum facilitated by Hadji Suharto, Director, Maguindanao Provincial Information Committee. 
   
A closing du’a was made by Eddie Hashim, Vice Chairman of the Province who was represented to the occasion by Abdulraof Bukra.

http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/1075-maguindanao-polcom-holds-3rd-annual-assembly

NDFP/NDFP-SMR: Crimes against the masses highlight AFP’s week-old all-out war in SMR

NDFP-Southern Mindanao Region propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Feb 17): Crimes against the masses highlight AFP’s week-old all-out war in SMR

NDFP | Southern Mindanao Region
Press Statement

February 17, 2017

Following Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s termination of the GRP’s sham unilateral ceasefire, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Año on February 4 announced that his troops “will go after the NPA to prevent them from conducting atrocities and criminal activities against the public.”

On February 7, GRP’s Secretary of Defense Delfin Lorenzana declared all-out war against the NPA, saying the Red army is a “security threat” they will “hunt down.” 10ID Commander Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia followed suit, subsequently proclaiming that their operations will “spare civilians from extortion cases of the NPA.”

In the following week since these grandstanding pronouncements and despite their self-professed deployment of almost all of their ground troops, all the AFP is able to show for itself, however, is a grisly testament to what the all-out war has in store for the masses in Southern Mindanao. These are the facts that the AFP in the region tries desperately to sweep under the rug:

• On February 6, AFP and PNP operations summarily killed Glenn Ramos, an activist, in Brgy. Maa, Davao City and Emelito Rotimas, a purok leader, in Brgy. Lapu-lapu, Maco, Compostela Valley. In Pantukan, Compostela Calley, Edwin Catog, an activist-farmer, was killed by motorcycle-riding tandem on February 16. The AFP claimed that Ramos resisted arrest and fought back in a shootout which resulted in his death. It is clear the AFP and PNP are trying to duplicate the vigilante-style killing of Oplan Tokhang in the summary-executions of civilians and activists under Oplan Kapayapaan.
• Almost 1,000 families or more than 5,000 individuals have become victims of forced evacuation due to AFP troops’ shelling of 105mm Howitzer artillery cannon in the villages of Macopa, Kibagyo and Bullucan in Laak, Compostela Valley on February 11 and in several villages of Manay, Davao Oriental on February 1 and the aerial bombing in Lupon, Davao Oriental on February 14. These indiscriminate bombardments have resulted in several reported cases of civilian injuries and left homes and livelihood damaged in peasant and Lumad communities already reeling from feudal exploitation and the recent spell of floods and heavy rains.
• On February 12, health workers, doctors, scientists and representatives of the GRP’s Department of Social Welfare and Development conducting a medical mission in Talaingod, Davao del Norte were threatened by the fanatical paramilitary Alamara of the 60IB.
• Since the NDFP-initiated peace forum on January 10, masses, allies, members of the private sector and even officials of the GRP local government unit who participated in the activity continue to be harassed and in constant surveillance by the 60IB in New Corella, Davao del Norte. In Davao City, meanwhile, anti-communist posters that lumped together the CPP-NPA-NDFP with legal progressive organizations were plastered all over the city’s thoroughfares as an evident prelude to the crackdown of activists and progressives.
• The illegal arrest of NDFP consultant Ariel Arbitrario and his civilian companion Roderick Mamuyac on February 6 lay bare the lengths the AFP and the GRP reactionary courts will go to to flout its own laws and sabotage the advances in the peace process. Legal maneuvers such as trumped-up charges and fabricated criminal cases have always been a convenient pretext of the GRP to put civilians and revolutionaries behind bars.

CIA-henchman Sec. Lorenzana and the AFP’s fascist top brass are quick to decry exaggerated lies about NPA atrocities when it is their rabid counterinsurgency Oplan Kapayapaan that is spawning scores of savage crimes against Lumads, peasants, activists and the people.

Around the region, revolutionary organizations have reported that the 10ID has deployed almost all of its ground troops and paramilitaries in the hinterlands of Veruela, Loreto and Trento in Agusan del Sur; in Asuncion, Kapalong and New Corella in Davao del Norte; in Laak, Montevista, Monkayo, Pantukan, Compostela, Monkayo, Maragusan and Maco in Compostela Valley; in Baganga, Caraga, Lupon and Manay in Davao Oriental; in Magpet, Arakan, Matalam, Makilala, Antipas and Kidapawan City in North Cotabato; and in Sta. Cruz, Digos City, and Bansalan in Davao del Sur. A massive fascist troop deployment that carries out the AFP’s all-out war in peasant and Lumad communities can only result to escalated rights violations which will all the more push the Filipino masses to persevere in the national-democratic revolution.

Instead of this exorbitant but ultimately futile all-out war against the revolutionary movement, Pres. Duterte must do away with the US-kowtowing neoliberal policies that rob tillers of their land, drive down wages and cement labor contractualization and pillage our resources and sovereignty with impunity. He must not yield to the pressure of the ultra-right militarists and imperialist lackeys in his government who are clearly out to isolate him from the masses and forward the interests of the ruling class. He must listen to the thunderous appeals of peace advocates and the people to terminate the all-out war and resume the peace negotiations.

The fact that the masses whom he professes to serve are fast becoming mere collateral damage in the AFP’s all-out war is the only compelling reason Pres. Duterte needs to go back to the negotiating table.

RUBI DEL MUNDO
Spokesperson
NDF-SMR

https://www.ndfp.org/crimes-against-the-masses-highlight-afps-week-old-all-out-war-in-smr/

CPP: On the AFP-reported "ambush" in Surigao

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Feb 17): On the AFP-reported "ambush" in Surigao

Communist Party of the Philippines17 February 2017

There was no NPA attack last February 15 against an AFP-escorted relief operations in Barangay Linunggaman, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte.

The reports coming from the AFP are highly dubious. The spokesmen of the AFP are weaveing such false reports to deceive the public and disparage the NPA which had earlier unilaterally declared a ceasefire in the areas which were hardest hit by the February 10 earthquake. The AFP wishes to discredit the NPA by making it appear that it is preventing relief operations in the revolutionary areas.

The masses in the disaster areas are gravely concerned that the AFP is exploiting relief operations for counterinsurgency aims. The military offers to “escort” relief operations in order to allow its armed units entry into the areas and establish its oppressive presence in the midst of civilian communities to conduct intelligence and psywar operations.

The CPP encourages civilian volunteer organizations to undertake relief operations in the revolutionary areas. Their security and well-being is fully assured. They can decline offers of “security” by the AFP and instead coordinate with local organizations. They can work with international donor organizations, even with GRP agencies to facilitate the entry of financial and other forms of assistance.

In the revolutionary areas, the NPA is being mobilized by the people’s local organs of political power to carry out necessary reconstruction of homes, fields or other civil, economic or social infrastructures damaged by the earthquake.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170217-on-the-afp-reported-ambush-in-surigao

Duterte meets Russia Security Council Secretary

From Update.Ph (Feb 17): Duterte meets Russia Security Council Secretary



President Rodrigo Duterte conducted a meeting with the Russian Federation delegates at the Presidential Guest House in Panacan, Davao City on February 16, 2017.

The Russian delegation was led by Nikolay P. Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council. Security Council of the Russian Federation is a consultative body of the Russian President that works out the President’s decisions on national security affairs.

 

The delegation was in Davao City for 3 days and had bilateral meetings with the National Security Council of the Philippines.

Together with the President during the meeting are the National Security Adviser, National Defense Secretary, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, and other Cabinet officials.

The last publicly known appearance of President Duterte, prior to this meeting, was last Feburay 12 during the distribution of family food packs and burial assistance quake victims in Surigao City.

On February 12, the President also attended the wedding of Senior Inspector Arvin Hosmillo and and Presidential aide-de-camp Senior Inspector Alnieza Kinang-Hosmillo’s at the Astoria Regency Convention Center in Zamboanga City. He attended as one of the principal sponsors.

http://www.update.ph/2017/02/duterte-meets-russia-security-council-secretary/14527

Russia, Philippines security councils secretariat hold 3-day meeting

From Update.Ph (Feb 17): Russia, Philippines security councils secretariat hold 3-day meeting

Philippines National Security Council Secretariat led by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon and Security Council of the Russian Federation led by Secretary of the Security Council Nikolay P. Patrushev conducted a three-day meeting in Davao City that ended February 16, this was revealed by NSA Esperon Friday, February 17.

The bilateral talks tackled government-to-government cooperation in the fields of security and intel, defense and military, law enforcement, terrorism and transnational crime, anti-illegal drugs, and maritime law enforcement.

Memorandum of Understanding on the above mentioned cooperation is currently on the works and expected to be signed when President Rodrigo Duterte meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia.

The 3-day event in Davao City was capped with a dinner with President Duterte at the Marco Polo Hotel. Duterte also met the Russian delegation at the Presidential Guest House in Panacan, Davao City.

http://www.update.ph/2017/02/russia-philippines-security-councils-hold-3-day-meeting/14533

President, national defense chief one in rightfully labelling NPA as terrorists

From Update.Ph (Feb 17): President, national defense chief one in rightfully labelling NPA as terrorists

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is one with President Rodrigo Duterte in labelling the NPA, the armed wing of Communist Party of the Philippines as terrorists. Secretary Lorenzana said the armed communists “extort people of their hard-earned money, burn property and equipment, and harass helpless civilians wherever they go.”

“I am one with the President in condemning the atrocities committed by the NPA, and in rightfully labelling them as terrorists,” the defense chief said in a statement released today.

“They rely on treachery and guile to trick the innocent into joining their misguided cause, and killing those who oppose them,” he added.

Earlier this month President Duterte said “I do not think that they are really worthy of being called rebels. Plainly they are terrorists to me.”

“From now on, I will consider the CPP-NPA-NDFP (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front of the Philippines) a terrorist group,” the President said as he talks with the families of Corporal Owen B. Yee, Private First Class Pat O. Non, and Private First Class Nino Christopher I. Talabor all from the Philippine Army, all killed by NPA.

http://www.update.ph/2017/02/president-national-defense-chief-one-in-rightfully-labelling-npa-as-terrorists/14539

Batch '67 mistah Duterte moves higher up in PMA family

From Rappler (Feb 17): Batch '67 mistah Duterte moves higher up in PMA family

During his first PMA Homecoming as president, Rodrigo Duterte will be adopted into the PMA alumni association, a privilege accorded to only select mistahs



SUITING UP. President Rodrigo Duterte tries on the suits given to him by his adoptive PMA class, the 'Dimasupil' Class of 1967 in Malacañang on November 7, 2016. Photo by Richard Madelo/Presidential Photo

In his first Philippine Military Academy (PMA) homecoming as president, Rodrigo Duterte will be adopted into its alumni association, a privilege accorded only to select mistahs.

His adoption will take place at the PMA Homecoming on Saturday, February 18, in Baguio City.

It's a step deeper into the fold of the prestigious PMA, the country's premier military school, whose students go on to become prominent members of either the 160,000-strong police force or 125,000-strong military.

While Duterte is an adopted member of the PMA "Dimasupil" class of 1967, becoming an honorary member of the PMA Alumni Association Incorporated (PMAAAI) comes with status and privilege not accorded to all mistahs.



SOFT SPOT. President Rodrigo Duterte condoles with Norman and Nelia Alejo, parents of slain soldier Second Lieutenant Miguel Victor Alejo who was killed in an encounter with communist rebels in Manay, Davao Oriental last February 1,2017. Photo by Toto Lozano/Presidential Photo

Mistahs are prominent civilians who are adopted into PMA classes and thus are considered "classmates" of members of the class.

Unique to the Philippines, it's a practice that best exemplifies how politics and the country's police and military forces mix.

Politicians that become mistahs are usually expected to help out their PMA class and its members. PMA class members, in return, are expected to support the politician during elections.

In the 2016 PMA Homecoming, the last homecoming before the 2016 national elections, politicians who would run for office that year graced the event. Those spotted were former vice-presidential candidates Alan Peter Cayetano and Antonio Trillanes IV, and former presidential candidate Manuel Roxas II.

Cayetano and Trillanes were adopted by PMA classes 1992 and 1995, respectively. Roxas was adopted by PMA class 1984, the same class that adopted President Duterte's daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte Carpio.

PMA classes may choose to grant their mistah an even greater honor by nominating them for membership into the PMAAAI.

Under PMAAAI guidelines, 3 classes must nominate a mistah, said PMAAAI chairman Anselmo Avenido Jr in an interview with reporters.

A nomination will only be approved for mistahs, be it a Filipino or foreign national, with exemplary and distinguished professional standing; whose membership brings honor and prestige to the association; and who has contributed to the attainment of the association's objectives, according to a Newsbreak report.



INTO THE FOLD. President Rodrigo Duterte poses for a photo with newly-appointed officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on January 31, 2017. File photo by Richard Madelo/Presidential Photo

After a vetting by a committee and recommendation by the executive committee, there must be a unanimous vote by all PMAAAI board members to adopt the individual.

Three presidents have already been adopted as PMAAI associate or honorary members: Fidel Ramos, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos.

Once a mistah is adopted by the PMAAAI, they are no longer part of the class that adopted them, although they can still join the class during the traditional PMA alumni parade.

Support from PMA alumni

Duterte was adopted by Class '67 in 1994, when he was still mayor of Davao City, in recognition of his support for PMA graduates assigned to Davao City, said Avenido, who is part of the same class.
His adoption into the PMAAAI as a whole is a sign of their support for him.

Aside from his adoption, Duterte will also be presented with a manifesto of support from the association.

"This is how we will show that we are fully behind him in his efforts to maintain peace and order in the country and his efforts towards the development of the country," Avenido said.

From his mayorship to his presidency, Duterte has emphasized his support for the military and police.

In his first months as Chief Executive, the country watched as he travelled from one military or police camp to another.

He frequently goes out of his way to visit wounded soldiers in military hospitals or condole personally with the wives of policemen killed while enforcing his controversial drug war.

He's had a soft spot for security personnel since his younger days, when he would spend a lot of time with the security detail of his father, then a governor of the undivided Davao.

But recently, he's shown a less obliging side to police. After the murder of a South Korean inside police headquarters in Camp Crame, Duterte ordered an internal cleansing among the police force to weed out corrupt personnel. He personally berated some of them in Malacañang.

Nevertheless, Duterte is well aware of how much he needs PMA graduates to win the many battles he faces: wars against drugs, police corruption, communists, and terrorism.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/161771-duterte-67-mistah-adoption-pma-alumni-association

Russia defense deal won't affect ties with U.S. – Esperon

From Rappler (Feb 17): Russia defense deal won't affect ties with U.S. – Esperon

Talks about an upcoming defense pact with Russia comes at a time when the Philippine President has made threats to scrap defense deals with the US



SEEKING MORE ALLIES. National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr holds a press conference at the Marco Polo Hotel in Davao City on February 17, 2017. Photo by Manman Dejeto/Rappler

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr says the Philippines' upcoming defense cooperation pact with Russia will not affect ties with the United States.

"Not at all," said Esperon, adding that the country's relations with the US, its traditional ally, remains "very balanced."

"We have our Mutual Defense Treaty, we have our Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement in place," he said on Friday, February 17, during a press conference in Davao City.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana was of the same opinion: "We believe it has no effect."

The Palace said that this new pact with Russia "will not exclude other relationships."
"The United States will remain an ally," said Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella in a statement.

However, terms of PH-US defense agreements may still change given the yearly review by the Mutual Defense Board and Security Exchange Board where both US and Filipino security officials are present.

"But there will be some modifications as we go along because the Mutual Defense Board, which is chaired by the Armed Forces chief of staff and the PACOM (Pacific Area Command) Commander of the United States meet every year to discuss the exercises and the terms of the agreement," said Esperon.

Talks about the defense cooperation agreement to be signed by the Philippines and Russia come weeks after President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to scrap defense deals with the US, threats which were eventually downplayed by his defense officials.

Last January, Duterte warned US to stop "unloading arms" in Palawan, Cagayan de Oro, and Pampanga, referring to provisions of EDCA that allow US to build facilities and store military hardware in select Philippine military bases.

Lorenzana said eventually that Duterte was merely concerned about the "type of structures" to be built but does not want to cancel EDCA altogether.

In December, Duterte threatened to abbrogate the Visiting Forces Agreement with the US after a US aid-giving corporation did not renew millions of dollars worth of assistance to the Philippines.

But the Philippines' relations with the US is still on a "wait-and-see" stage after the election of US President Donald Trump who has not yet revealed any concrete policy about US military presence in the Philippines.

Duterte has said though he would "reassess" his threats about defense pacts with the US "in deference" to Trump.

The volatile Philippine President seems to have taken a liking to the bombastic Trump after the new US leader commended him for his drug war.

Esperon gave assurances that the upcoming deal with Russia, like the inked defense cooperation pact with China, is just the new administration's way of widening the Philippines' circle of allies.

"If we can have good relations with everybody, with Russia, then wouldn't it be a better world?" he said.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/161767-russia-defense-deal-philippines-ties-united-states

NPA fighter killed in clash with 8ID troops in Northern Samar

From InterAksyon (Feb 17): NPA fighter killed in clash with 8ID troops in Northern Samar



Troops of the 43rd Infantry Battalion, under the 8th Infantry Division and led by 1Lt. Edsel Ryan B. Celebre clashed with New Peoples Army (NPA) rebels led by Salvador Nordan, nom de guerre "Badok", while conducting combat operations against lawless elements at Sitio Cabaywa, Barangay Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar on February 14, 2017.

The fire fight lasted for about five minutes, resulting in one NPA fighter killed, identified as Bernadette Lutao ("Kakan"), the wife of Badok.

Items recovered from the scene of the encounter included one improvised explosive device (IED) and three cellular phones.

In a statement, the military criticized the NPA for its alleged use of IEDs, which is restricted under the United Nations Geneva Convention because of its indiscriminate effects and possible harm to innocent civilians. The use of IEDs is also deemed a violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Maj. Gen. Raul M. Farnacio, commander of the 8ID, claimed that the NPA has been using IEDs as of their weapons of choice without consideration for the welfare of the civilian populace. 

"This incident is a triumph for the collective effort of the local government unit and agencies, the 8th ID, and our civilian constituents toward attaining just and lasting peace in Northern Samar. Filipinos want peace, and it is high time our fellow Filipinos who have been misled to join the NPA to lay down their arms and turn their backs on armed struggle," Farnacio added.

http://interaksyon.com/article/137131/npa-fighter-killed-in-clash-with-8id-troops-in-northern-samar

CPP: NPA did not attack relief convoy

From MindaNews (Feb 17): CPP: NPA did not attack relief convoy

The Communist Party of the Philippines has denied the New People’s Army was responsible for the attack on a relief convoy in Surigao del Norte on Wednesday.

In a statement Friday, the CPP labeled as dubious the reports coming from the Armed Forces of the Philippines that the NPA ambushed the ABS-CBN relief mission in Barangay Linanggonan, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte.

On Wednesday, military reports said NPA rebels fired at a military truck that escorted the TV network’s relief convoy bound for quake-hit areas in Surigao del Norte. No one was hurt in the incident.

“The spokesmen of the AFP are weaving such false reports to deceive the public and disparage the NPA which had earlier unilaterally declared a ceasefire in the areas which were hardest hit by the February 10 earthquake. The AFP wishes to discredit the NPA by making it appear that it is preventing relief operations in the revolutionary areas,” the statement said.

The CPP accused the AFP of exploiting relief operations “in order to allow its armed units entry into the areas and establish its oppressive presence in the midst of civilian communities to conduct intelligence and psywar operations.”

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/02/cpp-npa-did-not-attack-relief-convoy/

PH, Russia eye defense, security cooperation

From MindaNews (Feb 17): PH, Russia eye defense, security cooperation

The Philippines and Russia will sign a memorandum of understanding that aims to enhance defense and security cooperation between the two countries, an official said.

In a press conference Friday at the Marco Polo Hotel Davao, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said the draft MOU will cover cooperation in the areas of security and intelligence, defense and military, law enforcement, terrorism and transnational crimes, anti-illegal drugs work plan, and maritime law enforcement.

The MOU is expected to be signed during the visit of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to Moscow after the ASEAN Summit in April this year, Esperon said.

He said there were no talks yet on joint military exercises similar to the US-Philippines Balikatan Exercises but added it will be up to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to discuss it with his Russian counterparts.

“We have not gone into that. Let’s leave it to Sec. Lorenzana… It will come as a matter of course but I would say that military or military cooperation would be more on schooling, technical exchange, information exchange, and intelligence exchange,” he said.

Lorenzana said the Philippines will benefit from an enhanced defense cooperation with Russia by learning from the security expertise of the latter.

“We also want to get the techniques of others. Just like in other fields, it’s better to have a practicum,” he said.

He said this will not affect the Philippines’ relationship with its long-time ally the US. He described as “very balanced” the ties between the two countries despite the tirades of President Rodrigo R. Duterte against the US.

He said the Mutual Defense Treaty binds the US and the Philippines.

Lorenzana added the Philippines will pursue an “interdependent foreign policy” instead of “an independent foreign policy” to enable the country to continuously cooperate with other allied nations like China, Japan, and South Korea.

“By constitution, we must have an independent foreign policy, but in the current situation, it can no longer be an independent foreign policy but it must be an interdependent foreign policy. We are maintaining our alliances and we are also pursuing our robust relations with our neighbors,” he said.

Duterte received on Thursday at the presidential guesthouse in Panacan here Russian officials led by Secretary Nikolay P. Patrushev of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, who arrived in the city last February 15.

Duterte and Patrushev tackled future government-to-government cooperation in the areas mentioned by Esperon.

Lorenzana said there were also talks on the purchase of equipment that will boost the Philippine military’s defense capability.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/02/ph-russia-eye-defense-security-cooperation/

Philippine jihadists kill 2 military agents

From the Mindanao Examinetr (Feb 17): Philippine jihadists kill 2 military agents 

Suspected jihadists ambushed a group of military intelligence agents and killing two in a daring broad daylight attack in Marawi City in the restive province of Lanao del Sur in the Muslim autonomous region in southern Philippines.

The attack killed an officer and soldier and wounded another member of the Military Intelligence Group, all assigned in northern Mindanao. The soldiers were in a car when gunmen attacked them near the village of Lilod Madaya on Thursday afternoon.

The soldiers managed to return fire, but had been overpowered by their ambushers. The victims were on a mission to gather intelligence about the Maute group and Abu Sayyaf rebels who are actively operating in the province.

The military said Abu Sayyaf chieftain Isnilon Hapilon and leader of the local Islamic State members is currently in Lanao del Sur and consolidating various jihadist groups to fight the government and put their own caliphate.

Jihadists have been blamed for many deadly attacks in the troubled region.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/philippine-jihadists-kill-2-military-agents/

Rebels bombed military convoy in Davao City

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 17): Rebels bombed military convoy in Davao City

Two government soldiers were killed and over a dozen others injured in roadside bombing in Davao City blamed by the Philippine military to communist rebels.

Army Major Ezra Balagtey, a spokesman for the Eastern Mindanao Command, said the ambush occurred in the village near Lamaman in Calinan district. He said troops returned fire and killed at least 2 New People’s Army rebels in ensuing fire fight.

The attack, he said, happened Thursday afternoon while a convoy of troops were pursuing NPA rebels who torched a pineapple harvester owned by Del Monte Philippines, Inc. in nearby village of Tawantawan.

“The encounter came after the NPAs detonated a landmine on a convoy of troops who are pursuing armed men who burned one pineapple harvester owned by Del Monte in Tawantawan, Calinan district,” Balagtey said. “Fifteen soldiers were wounded and two other soldiers killed as a result of the landmine explosion, while two NPAs were killed in the fire fight.”

He said soldiers also recovered an automatic pistol and a rifle, including two improvised explosives in the village. The NPA earlier attacked an army post in Paquibato District, just 33 kilometers from Calinan, and a gun battle ensued that killed one rebel, according to Balagtey.

More troops were sent to the areas to hunt down the rebels, said Brigadier General Gilbert Gapay, commander of an army task force. He also condemned the rebel attacks.

“We grieved for the death of our soldiers, and we salute them for their display of the finest tradition of soldiery, we see to it that their death will not be in vain, this will further motivate us to work for peace in this part of the country. Pursuit operations against these armed lawless group are being undertaken and we will continue to run after them to protect our communities, will not allow them to further carry out their terroristic act,” Gapay said.

The NPA has been fighting for the establishment of communist state in the country.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/rebels-bombed-military-convoy-in-davao-city/

2 troopers, 2 rebels killed in Davao City clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 17): 2 troopers, 2 rebels killed in Davao City clash

Two troopers were killed while another two rebels were slain following an encounter in Calinan District, Davao City Thursday afternoon.

In the same encounter, 10 soldiers were also wounded.

The incident took place around 4:20 p.m. along the boundary of Barangay Lacson and Barangay Lamanan.

Reports indicated that a patrol of 3rd Infantry Battalion troops were conducting pursuit operations against suspected rebels when they encountered an undetermined number of insurgents, allegedly under the New People's Army's Southern Mindanao Regional Committee

In the ensuing clash, two soldiers were killed along with two rebels whose bodies were recovered.

Ten troopers were also wounded in the clash. Pursuit operations are still ongoing as of this time.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=964817

2 intel operatives killed in clash by Maute Group

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 17): 2 intel operatives killed in clash by Maute Group

An intelligence major was killed along with an enlisted man following a clash with suspected Maute Group members in Marawi City Thursday afternoon.

The incident took place around 5:30 p.m. at Barangay Lilod Madaya, of the above-mentioned city, said 1st Infantry Division spokesperson Lt.Col. Benedicto Manquiquis.

He identified the fatalities as Major Jerico P. Mangalus and Cpl.Bryan Libot.

Also wounded was Cpl. Rolando Cartilla.

Manquiquis said the above-mentioned personnel, all members of Military Intelligence Group 10, were conducting intelligence operations in the area when they encountered suspected Maute Group terrorists aboard a white Toyota Corolla (ULB-391), triggering a 10-minute firefight which left Mangalus and Libot dead and Cartilla wounded.

Manquiquis said the quickly retreating bandits sustained an undetermined number of casualties.

Pursuit operations are ongoing as of this posting.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=964845

DSWD assists 98 families affected by military-rebel clash in Ifugao

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 17): DSWD assists 98 families affected by military-rebel clash in Ifugao

The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) office in the Cordillera region has extended aid to 98 families whose lives were endangered when soldiers overran a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) camp in Sitio Pinugao, Barangay Namal, Asipulo, Ifugao province last February 12.

DSWD-Cordillera’s regional director, Janet Armas, reported that they provided the 98 families, consisting of 398 individuals, 107 of whom were children, some 500 food packs, 127 mats, 105 blankets, and 60 dignity kits.

They were accommodated in evacuation centers opened at the Namal Elementary School, facilities in Sitio Bahgit, Sitio Nanlapunan, and Sitio Ulnoy, and the Sitio Pebet Day Care Center.

Armas said Ifugao Rep. Teodoro Baguilat donated PHP15,000, while the municipality of Lamut, Ifugao gave 10 sacks of rice and used clothing. According to reports, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who hail from Ifugao have also sent donations.

The DSWD central office is set to airlift flannel blankets to Ifugao after an unidentified senior citizen reportedly died because of exposure to the cold after he refused to move to an evacuation center.

Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo meanwhile said the armed confrontation between the military and the NPA is a compelling reason to revive the formal peace negotiations between the government (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

“We must all support calls for the resumption of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations. Incidents of armed conflict more often than not lead to violations against the rights of civilians. Their safety, security, and very lives are put in danger, and the normal flow of their lives spent mainly on pursuing their respective means of livelihood are disrupted,” she said.

”Children are also especially vulnerable, as well as senior citizens. If and when the peace talks continue, there will be higher chances for peace to take root in our country and hopefully, fewer incidents of armed skirmishes.”

The social welfare chief also lauded the local governments for their swift response to help the evacuees.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=965002

DND chief calls on Filipinos to support gov't as NPAs vow more attacks

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 17): DND chief calls on Filipinos to support gov't as NPAs vow more attacks

As the New People's Army (NPA) threatens more attacks against military forces and civilian targets, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has called upon all Filipinos to unite and support the government.

"To our fellow Filipinos, we now stand at the crossroads of change," he said.

"Under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, we are closer than ever in bringing the much-needed reforms in governance and the attainment of a just and lasting peace in the country. However, there are still those who want to see us fail by sowing chaos and violence in the countryside," Lorenzana noted.

"At the top of the list are members of the NPA, who extort people of their hard-earned money, burn property and equipment, and harass helpless civilians wherever they go. They rely on treachery and guile to trick the innocent into joining their misguided cause, and killing those who oppose them," he stressed.

The DND chief said he is one with the Chief Executive in condemning the atrocities committed by the NPA, and in rightfully labelling them as terrorists.

Lorenzana said he is calling on all Filipinos to rise up against these criminals and terrorists.

"Yes, we must intensify our fight against all forms of oppression and exploitation but we must open our eyes wide to see who our real enemies are. We must frustrate them at every turn by denying them foothold in our communities and by reporting all illegal and criminal activities to the proper authorities," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=964892