From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 21): Ex-AFP public affairs chief leads Army unit in S. Kudarat
A multi-awarded and “popular” Army officer has assumed as the new commanding officer of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB) based in President Quirino town in Sultan Kudarat province.
Former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Affairs Office chief, Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, formally took over on Monday as acting commander of the 33IB, which has operational jurisdiction over three municipalities in Sultan Kudarat and seven in Maguindanao.
He replaced Lt. Col. Ricky Bunayog, who has completed his two-year assignment as commanding officer of the “Makabayan” battalion.
Bunayog was reassigned to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao.
Brig. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, 6th ID commanding officer, led the formal turnover ceremony on Monday at the 33IB headquarters in Barangay Tual in President Quirino town.
Bunayog credited the support of local government officials and community stakeholders to their successful operations in the past two years, especially against elements of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
He expressed confidence that the unit, under Cabunoc’s leadership will be able to accomplish its mission in securing the area, sustain the gains of the peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and in ushering development in local communities.
For his part, Cabunoc urged local stakeholders to extend the same support and cooperation to the 33IB.
He specifically cited the need for them to closely collaborate in addressing social issues and other problems that fueled the armed conflict these past years in parts of central Mindanao, especially in Maguindanao.
He said poverty, lack of education and other lingering social problems in the communities are their “real enemies.”
“Let’s help each other in solving the problems of our communities. These problems could not be addressed through armaments and armed operations,” Cabunoc said.
He assured that the 33IB is very much capable in securing the area and has broad experience in handling counter-insurgency operations in Mindanao.
Cabunoc noted that unit had been deployed in “hotspot” areas such as Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao del Sur.
The 33IB was adjudged as the country’s second best maneuver battalion in 2015, and topped in terms of readiness and good governance in 2016.
The AFP awarded Bunayog with the merit medal for his “exemplary” stint as commanding officer of the 33IB.
Cabunoc had served in various Army units, including the 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao, and received a number of combat awards and citations before assuming as the AFP’s public affairs chief in 2014.
These include Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) award from Metrobank Foundation and Rotary Club of Makati-Metro and the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award by the Civil Service Commission.
He was reassigned in late 2015 as special projects officer of AFP’s Civil Relations Service.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=965820
Monday, February 20, 2017
Projects under MTF turned over to communities
From the Business World (Feb 21): Projects under MTF turned over to communities
CONFLICT-affected areas in Mindanao will continue to receive aid from both the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) through livelihood and infrastructure projects as provisions in the peace agreement are rolled out pending the passage of a new Bangsamoro law.
The European Union (EU) also supports community-based programs jointly assisted by the government and the MILF to help conflict-affected families.
“This project demonstrates that with continued collaboration and support from the government and the MILF, people in conflict-affected communities are capable of developing initiatives to uplift their lives,” said EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen.
CONFLICT-affected areas in Mindanao will continue to receive aid from both the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) through livelihood and infrastructure projects as provisions in the peace agreement are rolled out pending the passage of a new Bangsamoro law.
Ustadz Mohammad Yacob, executive director of the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), a development arm of the MILF, said these war-torn communities will be developed through projects funded by the World Bank-administered Mindanao Trust Fund (MTF).
Yesterday, the MTF handed over a rice mill, solar dryer and a warehouse to Barangay Cabpangi, Pigcawayan in North Cotabato, benefitting around 1,704 residents.
This was part of the Bangsamoro Assistance for Development and Community Empowerment (Bangsamoro ADVANCE), a program jointly pioneered by the government, the MILF, and the MTF to support the Bangsamoro peace process.
Yesterday, the MTF handed over a rice mill, solar dryer and a warehouse to Barangay Cabpangi, Pigcawayan in North Cotabato, benefitting around 1,704 residents.
This was part of the Bangsamoro Assistance for Development and Community Empowerment (Bangsamoro ADVANCE), a program jointly pioneered by the government, the MILF, and the MTF to support the Bangsamoro peace process.
“These community projects highlight what we can achieve if we work together. It’s one of the many examples that we see every day resulting from the continued commitment of both the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Government of the Philippines to pursue peace and development in the Bangsamoro and Mindanao in general,” Mr. Yacob said in a statement.
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza, for his part, said: “More importantly, as a partnership between the government and the MILF, it has built confidence and social cohesion at the community level, which is an important factor to sustain the momentum of peace and development in Mindanao.”
Mr. Dureza added that the MTF has helped make basic services such as clean water, access roads, farming equipment and community centers more accessible to Bangsamoro communities such as Barangay Cabpangi.
EU SUPPORT
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza, for his part, said: “More importantly, as a partnership between the government and the MILF, it has built confidence and social cohesion at the community level, which is an important factor to sustain the momentum of peace and development in Mindanao.”
Mr. Dureza added that the MTF has helped make basic services such as clean water, access roads, farming equipment and community centers more accessible to Bangsamoro communities such as Barangay Cabpangi.
EU SUPPORT
The European Union (EU) also supports community-based programs jointly assisted by the government and the MILF to help conflict-affected families.
“This project demonstrates that with continued collaboration and support from the government and the MILF, people in conflict-affected communities are capable of developing initiatives to uplift their lives,” said EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen.
“Projects funded by the MTF help build a strong foundation for just and lasting peace. The European Union is committed to supporting inclusive development that benefits all peoples of Mindanao,” said Mr. Jessen.
On March 7, the final turnover ceremony will be held at the MILF Camp in Rajamuda where officials from the national government and MILF panel chairs are expected to attend.
On March 7, the final turnover ceremony will be held at the MILF Camp in Rajamuda where officials from the national government and MILF panel chairs are expected to attend.
Bangsamoro ADVANCE, which provides livelihood and infrastructure projects in 50 conflict-affected communities in 25 MILF base camps, aims to improve livelihood and access to basic services, increase local capacity in project planning, implementation and management and strengthen communities.
So far, the MTF has helped finance the construction of new roads, classrooms, health clinics, and community centers and improved access to electricity and water supply, benefiting more than 650,000 people in 316 communities from 75 municipalities.
So far, the MTF has helped finance the construction of new roads, classrooms, health clinics, and community centers and improved access to electricity and water supply, benefiting more than 650,000 people in 316 communities from 75 municipalities.
Salamat is new Marines commander
From the Manila Times (Feb 21): Salamat is new Marines commander
BRIGADIER General Emmanuel Salamat was designated as the new commander of the Philippine Marines, the Philippine Navy announced on Monday.
Salamat will formally assume his new post on Tuesday during a change of command ceremony at the Marines headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City to be presided by Philippine Navy commander Vice Admiral Joseph Mercado.
He will replace Maj. Gen. Andre Costales.
Described as a “veteran” of the all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March 2000, Costales was the deputy of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 when former President Joseph Estrada, now mayor of Manila, declared a total war against the MILF.
Costales and his men were deployed in Matanog, Maguindanao and was among those who pounded the separatists’ main camp, which was seized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
It was for this feat that Costales got his Gold Cross medal that recognizes gallantry in action.
Salamat, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1985, was the former commander of the 1st Marine Brigade in Sultan Kudarat from February 2014 to June 16. Prior to this, he served as chief of the Unified Command Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command from May 2013 to December 2013.
His was also the Assistant Superintendent of PMA; deputy brigade commander of the 1st Marine Brigade; Superintendent of the Command and Staff College, Naval Education and Training Command of the Philippine Navy; Director of the Navy Personnel Management Center; Chief of Staff, Combat and Service Support Brigade of the Philippine Marine Corps; commander of the , 8th Marine Battalion; Operations and Training Officer at PMA and Team Leader, Adjutant and Operations Officer United Nations Guards Contingent in Iraq.
http://www.manilatimes.net/salamat-new-marines-commander/313357/
BRIGADIER General Emmanuel Salamat was designated as the new commander of the Philippine Marines, the Philippine Navy announced on Monday.
Salamat will formally assume his new post on Tuesday during a change of command ceremony at the Marines headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City to be presided by Philippine Navy commander Vice Admiral Joseph Mercado.
He will replace Maj. Gen. Andre Costales.
Described as a “veteran” of the all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March 2000, Costales was the deputy of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 when former President Joseph Estrada, now mayor of Manila, declared a total war against the MILF.
Costales and his men were deployed in Matanog, Maguindanao and was among those who pounded the separatists’ main camp, which was seized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
It was for this feat that Costales got his Gold Cross medal that recognizes gallantry in action.
Salamat, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1985, was the former commander of the 1st Marine Brigade in Sultan Kudarat from February 2014 to June 16. Prior to this, he served as chief of the Unified Command Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command from May 2013 to December 2013.
His was also the Assistant Superintendent of PMA; deputy brigade commander of the 1st Marine Brigade; Superintendent of the Command and Staff College, Naval Education and Training Command of the Philippine Navy; Director of the Navy Personnel Management Center; Chief of Staff, Combat and Service Support Brigade of the Philippine Marine Corps; commander of the , 8th Marine Battalion; Operations and Training Officer at PMA and Team Leader, Adjutant and Operations Officer United Nations Guards Contingent in Iraq.
http://www.manilatimes.net/salamat-new-marines-commander/313357/
Riding in tandem gunmen shoot soldier
From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Feb 19): Riding in tandem gunmen shoot soldier
A SOLDIER was wounded in a gun attack by riding-in-tandem gunmen in the province of Zamboanga del Sur, the police reported Sunday, February 19.
Zamboanga del Sur police director Senior Superintendent Sofronio Ecaldre identified the victim as Staff Sergeant Geatras Solo, 50, of the Military Intelligence Battalion.
Ecaldre said the incident occurred around 9:20 a.m. Saturday at Purok Bombel 2 in the village of San Pedro, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur.
Investigation showed that Solo was washing his clothes in his residence when three men riding tandem in a motorcycle arrived and shot the victim without any provocation.
Ecaldre said the victim sustained three gunshot wounds and was rushed to the hospital while the suspect fled after the incident.
He said the investigation continues to establish the motive of the incident as well as unmask the suspects’ identities.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2017/02/19/riding-tandem-gunmen-shoot-soldier-526706
A SOLDIER was wounded in a gun attack by riding-in-tandem gunmen in the province of Zamboanga del Sur, the police reported Sunday, February 19.
Zamboanga del Sur police director Senior Superintendent Sofronio Ecaldre identified the victim as Staff Sergeant Geatras Solo, 50, of the Military Intelligence Battalion.
Ecaldre said the incident occurred around 9:20 a.m. Saturday at Purok Bombel 2 in the village of San Pedro, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur.
Investigation showed that Solo was washing his clothes in his residence when three men riding tandem in a motorcycle arrived and shot the victim without any provocation.
Ecaldre said the victim sustained three gunshot wounds and was rushed to the hospital while the suspect fled after the incident.
He said the investigation continues to establish the motive of the incident as well as unmask the suspects’ identities.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2017/02/19/riding-tandem-gunmen-shoot-soldier-526706
One Killed, Seven Abducted in Sulu Sea Pirate Attack
From the Maritime Executive (Feb 20): One Killed, Seven Abducted in Sulu Sea Pirate Attack
On Sunday evening, pirates attached the frieghter Giang Hai near Tawi-Tawi, Philippines, killing one seafarer and kidnapping seven.
According to the Vietnam Coast Guard, the abductees included the master, chief mate, third mate, second engineer and one oiler. Philippine coast guard and military forces responded to the scene and rescued the Giang Hai's remaining 17 crewmembers, and the Philippine armed forces pursued the attackers.
The Vietnamese-flagged geared bulker Giang Hai is operated by a Da Nang-based shipping firm. AIS data shows that she was under way from Makassar, Indonesia to Iloilo, Philippines at the time of the attack. The Giang Hai is now at Taganak anchorage area, Tawi Tawi, where Philippine law enforcement officials are examining the vessel.
The ReCAAP piracy reporting center said that the pirates destroyed navigation and communication equipment before escaping. ReCAAP noted that this is the second boarding and abduction in the region so far this year. The waters around Tawi-Tawi are notorious for pirate attacks and kidnappings perpetrated by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a terrorist organization based out of Sulu and Basilan. In November, ReCAAP advised slower-moving merchant vessels to avoid the region altogether if possible.
Abu Sayyaf is believed to be holding over two dozen hostages, most of them merchant mariners; it has released eleven captives since last June, and analysts suggest that ransoms were likely paid to secure their release. The Philippine government does not generally comment on ransoms, but recent payments may represent a significant sum: as a point of reference, group is believed to have taken in $7 million from kidnapping the first half of 2016 alone. The government discourages ransoms on the grounds that the money fuels ASG's arms purchases and recruitment activities.
Abu Sayyaf routinely threatens to kill hostages if it does not receive payment, and it often follows through. Last year, ASG fighters beheaded three captives – John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, both Canadian nationals, and Philippine citizen Patrick Almodovar. Last week, ASG threatened to behead German national Jurgen Kantner unless the German government pays $100,000 to secure his release.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/one-killed-seven-abducted-in-sulu-sea-pirate-attack
On Sunday evening, pirates attached the frieghter Giang Hai near Tawi-Tawi, Philippines, killing one seafarer and kidnapping seven.
According to the Vietnam Coast Guard, the abductees included the master, chief mate, third mate, second engineer and one oiler. Philippine coast guard and military forces responded to the scene and rescued the Giang Hai's remaining 17 crewmembers, and the Philippine armed forces pursued the attackers.
The Vietnamese-flagged geared bulker Giang Hai is operated by a Da Nang-based shipping firm. AIS data shows that she was under way from Makassar, Indonesia to Iloilo, Philippines at the time of the attack. The Giang Hai is now at Taganak anchorage area, Tawi Tawi, where Philippine law enforcement officials are examining the vessel.
The ReCAAP piracy reporting center said that the pirates destroyed navigation and communication equipment before escaping. ReCAAP noted that this is the second boarding and abduction in the region so far this year. The waters around Tawi-Tawi are notorious for pirate attacks and kidnappings perpetrated by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a terrorist organization based out of Sulu and Basilan. In November, ReCAAP advised slower-moving merchant vessels to avoid the region altogether if possible.
Abu Sayyaf is believed to be holding over two dozen hostages, most of them merchant mariners; it has released eleven captives since last June, and analysts suggest that ransoms were likely paid to secure their release. The Philippine government does not generally comment on ransoms, but recent payments may represent a significant sum: as a point of reference, group is believed to have taken in $7 million from kidnapping the first half of 2016 alone. The government discourages ransoms on the grounds that the money fuels ASG's arms purchases and recruitment activities.
Abu Sayyaf routinely threatens to kill hostages if it does not receive payment, and it often follows through. Last year, ASG fighters beheaded three captives – John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, both Canadian nationals, and Philippine citizen Patrick Almodovar. Last week, ASG threatened to behead German national Jurgen Kantner unless the German government pays $100,000 to secure his release.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/one-killed-seven-abducted-in-sulu-sea-pirate-attack
Groups say ‘peace,’ a compelling reason to resume talks with Reds
From Davao Today (Feb 20): Groups say ‘peace,’ a compelling reason to resume talks with Reds
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/groups-say-peace-a-compelling-reason-to-resume-talks-with-reds/
Various organizations gathered Saturday in a peace consultation in Ateneo de Davao University, said that “peace,” among others was a “compelling reason” for President Rodrigo Duterte to resume talks with the communists. (Earl O. Condeza/davaotoday.com)
Various organizations gathered Saturday in a peace consultation said that “peace,” among others was a “compelling reason” for President Rodrigo Duterte to resume talks with the communists.
The peace consultation, spearheaded by the Sisters Association in Mindanao, Exodus for Justice and Peace, and the Ateneo de Davao University Center for Engagement and Advocacy Council, urged the government to resume peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
The peace consultation, spearheaded by the Sisters Association in Mindanao, Exodus for Justice and Peace, and the Ateneo de Davao University Center for Engagement and Advocacy Council, urged the government to resume peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.
In his opening speech, Fr. Joel Tabora, S.J., President of AdDU, said “(It is) the AdDU position (that) the compelling reason for talks is peace. We cannot continue killing one another in this country.”
“We cannot build this country on the cadavers of our fellow Filipinos,” he added.
Tabora said he supported Duterte in his presidential bid because of “his willingness to fight for peace.”
Expressing his dismay over the President’s recent pronouncement to terminate the peace talks with the communists, Tabora said that people should stand and call for its resumption.
“We must stand behind the negotiation, for peace not for death,” Tabora said.
War
During the forum, children’s advocates slammed the all-out war in the countryside being waged by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Rius Valle, spokesperson of Children’s Rehabilitation Concern said that the all out war declaration of the government resulted to a number of children affected in forced evacuation, displacement from their schools and other rights abuses.
Since August 2016, Valle said that more than 80 attacks on schools such as harassment to the teachers, forcible closure, and military encampment.
Women’s group also pointed out the militarization, mostly vulnerable were the women and children.
The groups also expressed that all-out war will only worsen the condition of Lumad who are affected by the militarization.
Jong Monzon, spokesperson of Pasaka Confederation of Lumad Organizations in Mindanao, said that there was no sustainable subsidy of food of those who fled from their communities for sanctuary.
“Walay sustina sa hisgutanang subsisdy, pakgaon, tungod sa pagbakwit wala sila kabalik uma (The government did not give enough to sustain food subsidy after they evacuated from their communities and when they returned to their farms),” Monzon said
Lumad evacuees who returned to their communities after seeking sanctuary for nearly two years in Davao City were dismayed that the government did not provide them enough subsidy.
‘Not just the absence of war’
For her part, peace advocate and columnist Maria Victoria Maglana said during her synthesis of the forum that participants wanted a “positive peace, not a negative peace, not just the absence of war.”
She said the peace should address the issues like employment, housing and shelter, social services, and human rights.
Raised during the peace discussion were some challenges and recommendations to the participants as to how they would further their call for the resumption of peace talks.
Forum organizers pledged to help in the peace campaign in both rural and urban communities.
Ending the peace discussion, the participants pledged their commitment to “just peace” saying that societal “transformation demands the participation of each and every one of us, to offer our present and future generations the values of justice, solidarity, liberty, dignity, harmony, and dialogue.”
The pledge commitment added that they have faith in the peace panel members of both the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines “to work for the transformation of our society to a new beginning with social justice for the poor and marginalized.”
“We cannot build this country on the cadavers of our fellow Filipinos,” he added.
Tabora said he supported Duterte in his presidential bid because of “his willingness to fight for peace.”
Expressing his dismay over the President’s recent pronouncement to terminate the peace talks with the communists, Tabora said that people should stand and call for its resumption.
“We must stand behind the negotiation, for peace not for death,” Tabora said.
War
During the forum, children’s advocates slammed the all-out war in the countryside being waged by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Rius Valle, spokesperson of Children’s Rehabilitation Concern said that the all out war declaration of the government resulted to a number of children affected in forced evacuation, displacement from their schools and other rights abuses.
Since August 2016, Valle said that more than 80 attacks on schools such as harassment to the teachers, forcible closure, and military encampment.
Women’s group also pointed out the militarization, mostly vulnerable were the women and children.
The groups also expressed that all-out war will only worsen the condition of Lumad who are affected by the militarization.
Jong Monzon, spokesperson of Pasaka Confederation of Lumad Organizations in Mindanao, said that there was no sustainable subsidy of food of those who fled from their communities for sanctuary.
“Walay sustina sa hisgutanang subsisdy, pakgaon, tungod sa pagbakwit wala sila kabalik uma (The government did not give enough to sustain food subsidy after they evacuated from their communities and when they returned to their farms),” Monzon said
Lumad evacuees who returned to their communities after seeking sanctuary for nearly two years in Davao City were dismayed that the government did not provide them enough subsidy.
‘Not just the absence of war’
For her part, peace advocate and columnist Maria Victoria Maglana said during her synthesis of the forum that participants wanted a “positive peace, not a negative peace, not just the absence of war.”
She said the peace should address the issues like employment, housing and shelter, social services, and human rights.
Raised during the peace discussion were some challenges and recommendations to the participants as to how they would further their call for the resumption of peace talks.
Forum organizers pledged to help in the peace campaign in both rural and urban communities.
Ending the peace discussion, the participants pledged their commitment to “just peace” saying that societal “transformation demands the participation of each and every one of us, to offer our present and future generations the values of justice, solidarity, liberty, dignity, harmony, and dialogue.”
The pledge commitment added that they have faith in the peace panel members of both the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines “to work for the transformation of our society to a new beginning with social justice for the poor and marginalized.”
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/groups-say-peace-a-compelling-reason-to-resume-talks-with-reds/
AFP chief Año: New operation launched vs. Abu Sayyaf leader Hapilon
From MSN News (Feb 19): AFP chief Año: New operation launched vs. Abu Sayyaf leader Hapilon
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday said it has launched another operation against Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon following President Rodrigo Duterte's order to contain the ISIS threat in the country.
"The Westmincom (Western Mindanao Command) is launching another operation. Actually, it has already started, so i-intensify pa rin natin," AFP Chief Eduardo Año told reporters on Saturday, after the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Homecoming event.
"Target pa rin natin si Hapilon, Hapilon is still in the area," he added.
During his speech in the same event, Duterte said that the Abu Sayyaf members based in Basilan and led by Hapilon is assimilating the terrorist group's violence.
He has ordered police and military forces to contain the ISIS threat, he added.
"I have directed PNP and AFP to continuously contain the ISIS threat, to intensify operations using all available assets and resources," Duterte said.
Duterte had earlier claimed that Hapilon is now the "top honcho" of the Islamic State in the Philippines.
Duterte also asked the AFP to support his war on drugs.
Supporting role in war on drugs
Año, meanwhile, clarified that the AFP will only have a supporting role in the war on drugs.
"Still waiting for EO (executive order). Yung PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency), 'yan ang magiging main operating unit, magsu-support lang kami sa PDEA," the AFP chief said.
The President has tasked the AFP to support the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, which has been ordered to take the lead in the government's intensified campaign illegal drugs.
Año said the AFP will provide forces to the PDEA and share intelligence information during operations against illegal drugs.
https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/national/afp-chief-a%C3%B1o-new-operation-launched-vs-abu-sayyaf-leader-hapilon/ar-AAn4wT3
![hapilon]({"default":{"load":"default","w":"73","h":"41","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAn4C0A.img?h=406&w=728&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&x=521&y=264"},"size3column":{"load":"default","w":"62","h":"35","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAn4C0A.img?h=348&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&x=521&y=264"},"size2column":{"load":"default","w":"62","h":"35","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAn4C0A.img?h=348&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&x=521&y=264"}})
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday said it has launched another operation against Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon following President Rodrigo Duterte's order to contain the ISIS threat in the country.
"The Westmincom (Western Mindanao Command) is launching another operation. Actually, it has already started, so i-intensify pa rin natin," AFP Chief Eduardo Año told reporters on Saturday, after the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Homecoming event.
"Target pa rin natin si Hapilon, Hapilon is still in the area," he added.
During his speech in the same event, Duterte said that the Abu Sayyaf members based in Basilan and led by Hapilon is assimilating the terrorist group's violence.
He has ordered police and military forces to contain the ISIS threat, he added.
"I have directed PNP and AFP to continuously contain the ISIS threat, to intensify operations using all available assets and resources," Duterte said.
Duterte had earlier claimed that Hapilon is now the "top honcho" of the Islamic State in the Philippines.
Duterte also asked the AFP to support his war on drugs.
Supporting role in war on drugs
Año, meanwhile, clarified that the AFP will only have a supporting role in the war on drugs.
"Still waiting for EO (executive order). Yung PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency), 'yan ang magiging main operating unit, magsu-support lang kami sa PDEA," the AFP chief said.
The President has tasked the AFP to support the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, which has been ordered to take the lead in the government's intensified campaign illegal drugs.
Año said the AFP will provide forces to the PDEA and share intelligence information during operations against illegal drugs.
https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/national/afp-chief-a%C3%B1o-new-operation-launched-vs-abu-sayyaf-leader-hapilon/ar-AAn4wT3
ASG-backed alien jihadists regrouping
From The Standard (Feb 20): ASG-backed alien jihadists regrouping
DOZENS of foreign jihadists were among the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf members under Isnilon Hapilon who left their home base in a bid to establish an Islamic State (ISIS) stronghold in southwestern Mindanao, a military source said Sunday.
The terrorists composed of Indonesians, Malaysians, and Middle-Eastern nationals were sighted in the rugged terrain of Lanao del Sur last month, the source added.
The area where Hapilon and his men have sought sanctuary lies within Camp Busra, the main camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The area is being used by jihadists for training, the source said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Año said security forces are applying “intense pressure” on the group of Hapilon to carry out President Rodrigo Duterte’s order to decimate the ASG.
Hapilon was critically wounded in an artillery attack while four of his companions, including an Indonesian identified only as Mohisen, were killed during the skirmishes with Army troopers on the outskirts of Butig, Lanao del Sur two weeks ago.
Mohisen brings to three the number of Indonesian jihadists killed in Mindanao in separate clashes with security forces in Lanao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat last year.
Several military operations are also taking place in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu to neutralize the ASG, the Maute group and other terrorists groups, Año said.
“The ongoing operations in Lanao del Sur, targeting Isnilon Hapilon and the Maute brothers are being done simultaneously not only to put pressure on this group, but to reduce their capacity to fight and their will to fight,” Año said.
So far, the ASG has suffered 10 members killed in fierce fighting with Marines troops on Capual Island, Omar town in Sulu last week.
An estimated 14 battalions of composite troops are currently deployed in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu in a search and destroy operations against the group of Hapilon and its sub-leaders.
The Armed Forces expects to defeat the ASG in six months, Año said.
“We are at the stage of strategic victory. The momentum is on our side, and they will lose their will to fight and eventually some of them will lie low, [while] some of them [will] surrender,” Ano said.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/229800/asg-backed-alien-jihadists-regrouping.html
DOZENS of foreign jihadists were among the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf members under Isnilon Hapilon who left their home base in a bid to establish an Islamic State (ISIS) stronghold in southwestern Mindanao, a military source said Sunday.
The terrorists composed of Indonesians, Malaysians, and Middle-Eastern nationals were sighted in the rugged terrain of Lanao del Sur last month, the source added.
The area where Hapilon and his men have sought sanctuary lies within Camp Busra, the main camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The area is being used by jihadists for training, the source said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Año said security forces are applying “intense pressure” on the group of Hapilon to carry out President Rodrigo Duterte’s order to decimate the ASG.
Hapilon was critically wounded in an artillery attack while four of his companions, including an Indonesian identified only as Mohisen, were killed during the skirmishes with Army troopers on the outskirts of Butig, Lanao del Sur two weeks ago.
Mohisen brings to three the number of Indonesian jihadists killed in Mindanao in separate clashes with security forces in Lanao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat last year.
Several military operations are also taking place in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu to neutralize the ASG, the Maute group and other terrorists groups, Año said.
“The ongoing operations in Lanao del Sur, targeting Isnilon Hapilon and the Maute brothers are being done simultaneously not only to put pressure on this group, but to reduce their capacity to fight and their will to fight,” Año said.
So far, the ASG has suffered 10 members killed in fierce fighting with Marines troops on Capual Island, Omar town in Sulu last week.
An estimated 14 battalions of composite troops are currently deployed in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu in a search and destroy operations against the group of Hapilon and its sub-leaders.
The Armed Forces expects to defeat the ASG in six months, Año said.
“We are at the stage of strategic victory. The momentum is on our side, and they will lose their will to fight and eventually some of them will lie low, [while] some of them [will] surrender,” Ano said.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/229800/asg-backed-alien-jihadists-regrouping.html
AFP claims 40 NPA members 'killed' since all-out-war order
From the Sun Star-Manila (Feb 19): AFP claims 40 NPA members 'killed' since all-out-war order
FOLLOWING the military’s all-out-war against leftist group New People’s Army (NPA), over 40 of its members were allegedly "neutralized" as claimed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Eduardo Año on Sunday.
Año said since President Rodrigo Duterte scrapped the peace talks with the communist rebels on February 4, 30 encounters between the government troops and members of the group already took place.
"If you compute (the 30 encounters), it's like having two clashes a day and then we have neutralized more or less 40 communist rebels, 12 body counts, 15 captured, and about 17 surrendered," he claimed.
Año said they are hoping that the military’s intensified operations against the NPA would add pressure to the group.
"Alam mo, kailangan dito both military pressure on the other side and social pressure from the non-military side so that they will be forced again to not only go back to the negotiating table, [and] probably choose the path of peace," he said.
However, Año said they will continue to "observe peace and respect to human rights" but will not let the NPA continue conducting "illegal activities" such as extortion.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/02/20/afp-claims-40-npa-members-killed-all-out-war-order-526675
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/02/20/afp-claims-40-npa-members-killed-all-out-war-order-526675
Quirino villagers leave homes due to rebel presence, Army claims
From the Philippine Star (Feb 20): Quirino villagers leave homes due to rebel presence, Army claims
The Army's 5th Infantry Division claims residents were "terrorized by the presence of armed men." File photo
Hundreds of villagers from two barangays in Madella town in Quirino province were displaced from their homes and farms after NPA rebels reportedly told them to flee, the military claimed.
The Army's 5th Infantry Division claims residents were "terrorized by the presence of armed men." File photo
Hundreds of villagers from two barangays in Madella town in Quirino province were displaced from their homes and farms after NPA rebels reportedly told them to flee, the military claimed.
This, after more than a hundred rebels occupied a school area in remote San Martin barangay more than a week ago, forcing another 54 families to seek safer ground.
Only last Saturday, Army 1Lt. Rhea May Reyes, speaking for the Isabela-based 5th Infantry Division said residents of barangays Cabua-an and Sto Nino were “terrorized by the presence of armed men”.
Reyes claimed rebels forced the people to leave their homes and be move temporarily to the barangay proper.
Earlier, scores of families in Barangay San Martin, fled after rebels came and occupied a school in the area, causing trauma, fear and panic to the residents, particularly the children, the military said.
To address it, said Reyes, soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 86th Infantry Battalion assigned in the area are instituting security patrols to drive away the rebels “so that the residents can now return to their homes and live normal lives.”
Maj. Gen. Paul Atal, commanding general of the 5th Infantry Division vowed to continue providing security to the villagers in Madella while urged the rebels “to lay down firearms and live peaceful lives.”
CPP orders release of police, military captives
The leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines has meanwhile ordered New People's Army units holding six government security forces captive in Mindanao to hasten their release as a “positive gesture” towards a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the government.
The CPP called on the NPA commands holding the six “to expedite (their) release.”
The NPA commands in charge of the custodial units can work closely with third-party facilitators, it added, while, “the AFP can cooperate by withdrawing all troops in and around the area where the POWs will be released to pave the way for their safe and orderly release.”
The CPP said that with the cooperation of local AFP commands, “all POWs can return to their families before or during the scheduled negotiations in The Netherlands.”
This as the CPP still expressed hopes for continuing talks with the government ssying, “if [President Rodrigo Duterte] decides to send his negotiating panel and emissaries to the upcoming scheduled talks between the ceasefire committees, negotiations for a bilateral ceasefire agreement can proceed as scheduled on February 22-27 in The Netherlands.”
It added that the success of the negotiations can be ensured “if the [government] facilitates the travel of the NDFP's ceasefire committee member and consultants.”
AFP steps up operations vs. terror groups; says 'strategic victory' aimed in four months
From CNN Philippines (Feb 19): AFP steps up operations vs. terror groups; says 'strategic victory' aimed in four months
AFP Chief Gen. Eduardo Año.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) aims at a strategic victory over terror groups in Mindanao in four months time.
AFP Chief General Eduardo Año explains strategic victory does not mean that they will be able to neutralize up to the last member of the terror groups.
He says they aim to keep the momentum on their side until the terror groups lose their will to fight.
Año says in the past two months, there have been good developments with the all-out war against the Abu Sayyaf and Maute groups.
They started organizational changes – placing competent officers in focused areas.
Año says they have intensified operations against the group of Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of the so-called Islamic State in Mindanao, and the Maute brothers that operate in Lanao del Sur.
They even allocated additional budget for these operations.
Año said: "Two months, and we still have four months to go. But kung kaya natin in less than six months... Hindi naman kinakailangan na maubos silang lahat e, yung tinatawag nating strategic victory. Yung the momentum is on our side and they will lose their will to fight and eventually some of them will lie low, some of them will surrender. And we will convince even more the communities to support our operating troops." [Translation: We said two months, and we still have four months to go. But we can do this in less than six months... We do not necessarily need to get rid of all of them, what we need is a strategic victory. The momentum is on our side and they will lose their will to fight, and eventually some of them will lie low, some of them will surrender. And we will convince even more the communities to support our operating troops.]
Maute behind intelligence officers' deaths
AFP chief General Eduardo Año confirms the group of terrorist Otto Maute was behind the death of two intelligence officers in Marawi City on Thursday.
Initial report says the officers from the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces identified as Major Jerico Mangalus and one Corporal Libot were aboard an SUV when they were ambushed by armed men.
Año says Mangalus' remains will be flown to Villamor Airbase on Sunday and President Duterte may pay his respect to the slain officer.
Ano said, "So part of our Haribon Four Operation actually is the group that hit the group of Maj. Mangalus. And it's one of the Maute brothers, the Otto Maute. Ang group ni Otto Maute ang naencounter nila [The encounter was with the group of Otto Maute]."
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/02/19/eduardo-a%C3%B1o-afp-operations-vs-terror-groups.html
AFP Chief Gen. Eduardo Año.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) aims at a strategic victory over terror groups in Mindanao in four months time.
AFP Chief General Eduardo Año explains strategic victory does not mean that they will be able to neutralize up to the last member of the terror groups.
He says they aim to keep the momentum on their side until the terror groups lose their will to fight.
Año says in the past two months, there have been good developments with the all-out war against the Abu Sayyaf and Maute groups.
They started organizational changes – placing competent officers in focused areas.
Año says they have intensified operations against the group of Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of the so-called Islamic State in Mindanao, and the Maute brothers that operate in Lanao del Sur.
They even allocated additional budget for these operations.
Año said: "Two months, and we still have four months to go. But kung kaya natin in less than six months... Hindi naman kinakailangan na maubos silang lahat e, yung tinatawag nating strategic victory. Yung the momentum is on our side and they will lose their will to fight and eventually some of them will lie low, some of them will surrender. And we will convince even more the communities to support our operating troops." [Translation: We said two months, and we still have four months to go. But we can do this in less than six months... We do not necessarily need to get rid of all of them, what we need is a strategic victory. The momentum is on our side and they will lose their will to fight, and eventually some of them will lie low, some of them will surrender. And we will convince even more the communities to support our operating troops.]
Maute behind intelligence officers' deaths
AFP chief General Eduardo Año confirms the group of terrorist Otto Maute was behind the death of two intelligence officers in Marawi City on Thursday.
Initial report says the officers from the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces identified as Major Jerico Mangalus and one Corporal Libot were aboard an SUV when they were ambushed by armed men.
Año says Mangalus' remains will be flown to Villamor Airbase on Sunday and President Duterte may pay his respect to the slain officer.
Ano said, "So part of our Haribon Four Operation actually is the group that hit the group of Maj. Mangalus. And it's one of the Maute brothers, the Otto Maute. Ang group ni Otto Maute ang naencounter nila [The encounter was with the group of Otto Maute]."
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/02/19/eduardo-a%C3%B1o-afp-operations-vs-terror-groups.html
Unicef lauds MILF for releasing child soldiers
From Rappler (Feb 20): Unicef lauds MILF for releasing child soldiers
The MILF's Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces has turned over the first batch of child combatants to their parents. It has committed to disengage almost 2,000 combatants under 18.
FREE. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) releases the first batch of 50 child combatants. Military photo
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) released 50 child combatants in a formal ceremony on Sunday, February 19, that kickstarted the implementation of the rebel group's commitment to disengage a total of 1,858 combatants under 18.
In the town of Sultan Kudarat in Maguindanao, certificates of disengagement were given to child soldiers who performed roles such couriers and support staff to parents who are fighters themselves. It indicated their release from the MILF armed group Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).
In a press release, the military said United Children's Fund (Unicef) country representative Lotta Sylwander lauded the BIAF for being the only armed group in the world that successfully turned over child combatants to their parents.
One of Unicef's advocacies is to call out armed groups on employing child combatants or soldiers under 18 who participate directly or indirectly in armed conflicts.
The rest of the BIAF child combatants are expected to be released in the coming days.
Based on Unicef data, child combatants in the BIAF are mostly boys (60%) but girls are also significantly involved (40%).
Aside from Sylwander, chief presidential peace adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza, Western Mindanao Command chief Major General Carlito Galvez, and MILF Vice Chairman Gadzali Jaafar, and other key officials supporting talks with the MILF also witnessed the ceremony.
MILF's Jaafar said it shows the group's commitment to the peace process: "We need to unite for a better tomorrow because we believe that there is a better tomorrow."
Dureza celebrated the progress of the peace process. "The government is happy that the endeavor has finally come to reality," he said. He promised to facilitate possible assistance to the families of the former child combatants.
The previous Aquino government signed a peace deal with the MILF, but the law that was supposed to implement the agreements failed to pass Congress.
President Rodrigo Duterte, the first Philippine president from Mindanao, vowed he will get the law passed and complete the peace process. He has signed the appointment papers of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission that will draft a revised version of the law.
Galvez, the newly installed military commander in Western Mindanao, vowed they will support the development of the former child combatants. "The Armed Forces sees this as a welcoming development and will be very supportive in the implementation of activities intended to develop the welfare of these children," he said.
He has gained the trust of the MILF. "Major General Galvez is genuinely working closely and actively in understanding the problems and finding means to be able to contribute to its long-term solution," said Jaafar.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/162049-milf-release-child-combatants
The MILF's Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces has turned over the first batch of child combatants to their parents. It has committed to disengage almost 2,000 combatants under 18.
FREE. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) releases the first batch of 50 child combatants. Military photo
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) released 50 child combatants in a formal ceremony on Sunday, February 19, that kickstarted the implementation of the rebel group's commitment to disengage a total of 1,858 combatants under 18.
In the town of Sultan Kudarat in Maguindanao, certificates of disengagement were given to child soldiers who performed roles such couriers and support staff to parents who are fighters themselves. It indicated their release from the MILF armed group Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).
In a press release, the military said United Children's Fund (Unicef) country representative Lotta Sylwander lauded the BIAF for being the only armed group in the world that successfully turned over child combatants to their parents.
One of Unicef's advocacies is to call out armed groups on employing child combatants or soldiers under 18 who participate directly or indirectly in armed conflicts.
The rest of the BIAF child combatants are expected to be released in the coming days.
Based on Unicef data, child combatants in the BIAF are mostly boys (60%) but girls are also significantly involved (40%).
Aside from Sylwander, chief presidential peace adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza, Western Mindanao Command chief Major General Carlito Galvez, and MILF Vice Chairman Gadzali Jaafar, and other key officials supporting talks with the MILF also witnessed the ceremony.
MILF's Jaafar said it shows the group's commitment to the peace process: "We need to unite for a better tomorrow because we believe that there is a better tomorrow."
Dureza celebrated the progress of the peace process. "The government is happy that the endeavor has finally come to reality," he said. He promised to facilitate possible assistance to the families of the former child combatants.
The previous Aquino government signed a peace deal with the MILF, but the law that was supposed to implement the agreements failed to pass Congress.
President Rodrigo Duterte, the first Philippine president from Mindanao, vowed he will get the law passed and complete the peace process. He has signed the appointment papers of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission that will draft a revised version of the law.
Galvez, the newly installed military commander in Western Mindanao, vowed they will support the development of the former child combatants. "The Armed Forces sees this as a welcoming development and will be very supportive in the implementation of activities intended to develop the welfare of these children," he said.
He has gained the trust of the MILF. "Major General Galvez is genuinely working closely and actively in understanding the problems and finding means to be able to contribute to its long-term solution," said Jaafar.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/162049-milf-release-child-combatants
'Right to peace' | Move quickly to prevent more bloodshed, experts tell government and MILF
From InterAksyon (Feb 20): 'Right to peace' | Move quickly to prevent more bloodshed, experts tell government and MILF
Military and MILF representatives flash the peace sign in this March 3, 2014 file photo. (INTERAKSYON/Dennis Arcon)
The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) must act quickly on the recommendations of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) to prevent more bloodshed, especially as some youth being indoctrinated by extremists are growing “restive”.
This is according to retired Mindanao State University professor Rufa Cagoco-Guiam, who trained 24 facilitators to conduct TJRC “listening process” sessions among 3,000 Moros, Christians, and indigenous people in 211 communities in Mindanao. Here, participants told their experiences of war, displacement, and discrimination, among others.
The TJRC is an independent commission created by the government and the MILF under the Normalization Annex of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). The TJRC held listening process sessions to learn the grievances of the Bangsamoro people – including MILF and Moro National Liberation Front communities – to fulfill their mandate of making recommendations on how to address historical injustices, grievances, human rights violations, and marginalization through land dispossession, in order to promote healing and reconciliation.
On Monday, the TJRC launched their last two reports: “Listening Process Report 2017” and “Dealing with the Past and Land Dispossession in the Bangsamoro” at the Dusit Thani Manila.
Here, Guiam said that having just visited Basilan and Sulu, she sensed restiveness among the youth, just waiting to be ignited into “a full-blown war”.
This amid a backdrop of killings that remained unabated, even in a “peaceful” city such as General Santos, where one of her students was murdered in broad daylight.
In Basilan, she added, it was normal to see military vehicles patrolling the streets, with soldiers holding machine guns, ready to fire.
“How long will that dangerous, normal thing happen? It might be blown out of proportion later on if we are not able to address this,” Guiam said.
Some of the youth were also being lured by extremists. According to her, the Turkish government had already classified a group pretending to espouse tolerance in a Zamboanga school as a terrorist organization.
Guiam said she was afraid of what these would lead to, which was why she urged the government and the MILF to swiftly address the TJRC's recommendations.
The body had published 90 recommendations in a report it made in March last year, on top of their proposal for the creation of an independent National Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission on the Bangsamoro (NTJRCB).
According to TJRC chairperson Mo Bleeker, this would be tasked to investigate human rights violations; help resolve land disputes in conflict areas; promote accountability in relation to past and present wrongdoings; and promote healing and reconciliation among the affected communities.
Some of these recommendations could be implemented immediately, and without legislation.
Memorialization
Memorialization was an example. Under the TJRC's March 2016 report, specific tragic events would be memorialized, victims would be honored, and historical sites relating to the Bangsamoro and indigenous peoples would be identified and memorialized.
Memorialization initiatives honoring Martial Law victims would also include the Bangsamoro and indigenous peoples.
Guiam and her colleagues also stressed the need to implement the law authored by Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara requiring Bangsamoro history to be taught in schools.
Majority of Filipinos were clueless about the Bangsamoro's past. Guiam said there was a reason why war was waged, and it was not because they were innately bloodthirsty.
While the reports had gained a “positive” reception from the government and the MILF, said Bleeker, they had not yet formally committed to them.
The two had to enter into an official agreement, on paper, so they could jointly plan on how to move forward.
“We want them to hit the ground running, so to speak... People are wanting to see, after all the talk, where's the action?” Guiam said.
Bleeker added, “On the ground, there is a lot of hope, but there is also a lot of danger that if nothing happens, people might enter into desperation.”
Guiamel Alim, the coordinator of the TJRC listening process, noted that one of the reasons why some of the youth are joining extremist groups was because of frustration that nothing good was happening. Radicalism, to them, became the better alternative.
“You need to give hope to these young people. They are full of energy, and they want to contribute to a solution. So we can show them a path to a constructive solution,” Bleeker explained.
The speakers were optimistic that the NTJRCB, at least, would be created under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Atty. Ishak Mastura, the convenor of the TJRC Marginalization through Land Dispossession Study Group, said that Duterte frequently spoke about historical injustice, assuaging the hurt among the Bangsamoro. Such speeches were an acknowledgment of the Bangsamoro's past.
Meanwhile, Bleeker saw no problem with the government dealing with the MNLF separately, and added that the TJRC's approach could also be used for the peace process between the government and the MNLF, and the government and the National Democratic Front.
“It touches the soul and the heart of the people, it acknowledges what happened to them... They have the right to peace, and they want to be acknowledged in what they went through,” she said.
Guiam added, “The pain of war strikes a common chord no matter who you are.”
http://interaksyon.com/article/137182/right-to-peace--move-quickly-to-prevent-more-bloodshed-experts-tell-government-and-milf
Military and MILF representatives flash the peace sign in this March 3, 2014 file photo. (INTERAKSYON/Dennis Arcon)
The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) must act quickly on the recommendations of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) to prevent more bloodshed, especially as some youth being indoctrinated by extremists are growing “restive”.
This is according to retired Mindanao State University professor Rufa Cagoco-Guiam, who trained 24 facilitators to conduct TJRC “listening process” sessions among 3,000 Moros, Christians, and indigenous people in 211 communities in Mindanao. Here, participants told their experiences of war, displacement, and discrimination, among others.
The TJRC is an independent commission created by the government and the MILF under the Normalization Annex of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). The TJRC held listening process sessions to learn the grievances of the Bangsamoro people – including MILF and Moro National Liberation Front communities – to fulfill their mandate of making recommendations on how to address historical injustices, grievances, human rights violations, and marginalization through land dispossession, in order to promote healing and reconciliation.
On Monday, the TJRC launched their last two reports: “Listening Process Report 2017” and “Dealing with the Past and Land Dispossession in the Bangsamoro” at the Dusit Thani Manila.
Here, Guiam said that having just visited Basilan and Sulu, she sensed restiveness among the youth, just waiting to be ignited into “a full-blown war”.
This amid a backdrop of killings that remained unabated, even in a “peaceful” city such as General Santos, where one of her students was murdered in broad daylight.
In Basilan, she added, it was normal to see military vehicles patrolling the streets, with soldiers holding machine guns, ready to fire.
“How long will that dangerous, normal thing happen? It might be blown out of proportion later on if we are not able to address this,” Guiam said.
Some of the youth were also being lured by extremists. According to her, the Turkish government had already classified a group pretending to espouse tolerance in a Zamboanga school as a terrorist organization.
Guiam said she was afraid of what these would lead to, which was why she urged the government and the MILF to swiftly address the TJRC's recommendations.
The body had published 90 recommendations in a report it made in March last year, on top of their proposal for the creation of an independent National Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission on the Bangsamoro (NTJRCB).
According to TJRC chairperson Mo Bleeker, this would be tasked to investigate human rights violations; help resolve land disputes in conflict areas; promote accountability in relation to past and present wrongdoings; and promote healing and reconciliation among the affected communities.
Some of these recommendations could be implemented immediately, and without legislation.
Memorialization
Memorialization was an example. Under the TJRC's March 2016 report, specific tragic events would be memorialized, victims would be honored, and historical sites relating to the Bangsamoro and indigenous peoples would be identified and memorialized.
Memorialization initiatives honoring Martial Law victims would also include the Bangsamoro and indigenous peoples.
Guiam and her colleagues also stressed the need to implement the law authored by Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara requiring Bangsamoro history to be taught in schools.
Majority of Filipinos were clueless about the Bangsamoro's past. Guiam said there was a reason why war was waged, and it was not because they were innately bloodthirsty.
While the reports had gained a “positive” reception from the government and the MILF, said Bleeker, they had not yet formally committed to them.
The two had to enter into an official agreement, on paper, so they could jointly plan on how to move forward.
“We want them to hit the ground running, so to speak... People are wanting to see, after all the talk, where's the action?” Guiam said.
Bleeker added, “On the ground, there is a lot of hope, but there is also a lot of danger that if nothing happens, people might enter into desperation.”
Guiamel Alim, the coordinator of the TJRC listening process, noted that one of the reasons why some of the youth are joining extremist groups was because of frustration that nothing good was happening. Radicalism, to them, became the better alternative.
“You need to give hope to these young people. They are full of energy, and they want to contribute to a solution. So we can show them a path to a constructive solution,” Bleeker explained.
The speakers were optimistic that the NTJRCB, at least, would be created under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Atty. Ishak Mastura, the convenor of the TJRC Marginalization through Land Dispossession Study Group, said that Duterte frequently spoke about historical injustice, assuaging the hurt among the Bangsamoro. Such speeches were an acknowledgment of the Bangsamoro's past.
Meanwhile, Bleeker saw no problem with the government dealing with the MNLF separately, and added that the TJRC's approach could also be used for the peace process between the government and the MNLF, and the government and the National Democratic Front.
“It touches the soul and the heart of the people, it acknowledges what happened to them... They have the right to peace, and they want to be acknowledged in what they went through,” she said.
Guiam added, “The pain of war strikes a common chord no matter who you are.”
http://interaksyon.com/article/137182/right-to-peace--move-quickly-to-prevent-more-bloodshed-experts-tell-government-and-milf
AFP: Paquibato, Marilog closely monitored due to NPA presence
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 20): AFP: Paquibato, Marilog closely monitored due to NPA presence
THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is placing some barangays of Paquibato and Marilog under watchlist anew following the resurgence of communist rebel attacks since the beginning of this month.
Brig. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, commander of Joint Task Force Haribon, said the Eastern Mindanao Command ( EastMinCom) is combatting six groups of the New People’s Army in its area of responsibility.
He said two NPA groups are operating under the area of responsibility of 3rd Infantry Battalion: the Pulang Bagani Command ( PBC) 1 under Jinggoy Cañete and PBC 2 under alias Lando.
“Apparently, they conducted joint operations to disturb our communities in the outskirts of Davao City,” Gapay said.
The AFP already declared Davao City as “insurgency free,” which means that the movements of the NPA are already controlled and monitored. That also means industries and residents can go about their businesses unimpeded.
He said two NPA groups are operating under the area of responsibility of 3rd Infantry Battalion: the Pulang Bagani Command ( PBC) 1 under Jinggoy Cañete and PBC 2 under alias Lando.
“Apparently, they conducted joint operations to disturb our communities in the outskirts of Davao City,” Gapay said.
The AFP already declared Davao City as “insurgency free,” which means that the movements of the NPA are already controlled and monitored. That also means industries and residents can go about their businesses unimpeded.
However, Gapay said that when President Rodrigo Duterte declared a ceasefire late last year, the NPA took advantages and consolidated its forces.
“We are now going back to these areas and we are telling the people that are here again to protect them,” he added.
Gapay said there are still three to four barangays in Paquibato that are placed under watchlist. These are located in the northern part of the district.
“We are now going back to these areas and we are telling the people that are here again to protect them,” he added.
Gapay said there are still three to four barangays in Paquibato that are placed under watchlist. These are located in the northern part of the district.
On the other hand, they are also watching closely three or four barangays in Marilog.
“It doesn’t mean the entire barangay, we are looking at sitios (hamlets) only because they cannot get the entire barangay since the people want peace already,” he added.
Meanwhile, he said the door to peace with the communist rebels is not totally closed.
“It is up to the NPA if they want the peace talks to continue because the government has already shown its sincerity and effort to give them they want,” he said.
“They claim they want peace but there is no sincerity so it is actually a deception,” he further said. “So if they want to bring back the peace talks, the rebels must bring down their arms, abandon their movement and do away with violence and join society.”
In an earlier interview also, AFP Chief Gen. Eduardo Año said they are studying if they need to deploy additional battalions to the region to help fight the communist rebels.
“It doesn’t mean the entire barangay, we are looking at sitios (hamlets) only because they cannot get the entire barangay since the people want peace already,” he added.
Meanwhile, he said the door to peace with the communist rebels is not totally closed.
“It is up to the NPA if they want the peace talks to continue because the government has already shown its sincerity and effort to give them they want,” he said.
“They claim they want peace but there is no sincerity so it is actually a deception,” he further said. “So if they want to bring back the peace talks, the rebels must bring down their arms, abandon their movement and do away with violence and join society.”
In an earlier interview also, AFP Chief Gen. Eduardo Año said they are studying if they need to deploy additional battalions to the region to help fight the communist rebels.
Landmine recovered in Calinan
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 20): Landmine recovered in Calinan
GOVERNMENT soldiers foiled a possible landmine attack after they recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by New People’s Army (NPA) in a populated area in Inayangan, Calinan District Saturday afternoon.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the army’s Eastern Mindanao Command, said the discovery came after residents tipped off the troopers about an IED put by the terrorists in the area.
Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Battalion and the army’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), upon arrival at the site, immediately rendered a safety procedure to recover the EID, which is composed of an anti-vehicle landmine, explosive blasting machine, improvised blasting cap and electrical wire.
In his statement, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Joint Task Force Haribon commander, condemned the planting of the IED in the civilian area because it endangers the safety of the community.
“Laying of landmines in busy roads and populated areas by the NPAs is a wanton disregard of the safety of the people, which is a violation of their human rights,”Gapay said.
Gapay expressed his appreciation to the residents who reported to them the matter.
He urged the residents to continue their vigilance and alertness against terrorist groups.
Inayangan is a just few kilometer away from Barangay Lamanan in Calinan District, where a landmine exploded after it was overran by an army convoy on Thursday. The blast killed two soldiers and wounded 17 others.
The ensuing gunbattle between the army and the rebels killed two NPA guerillas. A farmer was also killed during the encounter.
Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Battalion and the army’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), upon arrival at the site, immediately rendered a safety procedure to recover the EID, which is composed of an anti-vehicle landmine, explosive blasting machine, improvised blasting cap and electrical wire.
In his statement, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, Joint Task Force Haribon commander, condemned the planting of the IED in the civilian area because it endangers the safety of the community.
“Laying of landmines in busy roads and populated areas by the NPAs is a wanton disregard of the safety of the people, which is a violation of their human rights,”Gapay said.
Gapay expressed his appreciation to the residents who reported to them the matter.
He urged the residents to continue their vigilance and alertness against terrorist groups.
Inayangan is a just few kilometer away from Barangay Lamanan in Calinan District, where a landmine exploded after it was overran by an army convoy on Thursday. The blast killed two soldiers and wounded 17 others.
The ensuing gunbattle between the army and the rebels killed two NPA guerillas. A farmer was also killed during the encounter.
Vow to release POWs
From the Mindanao Times (Feb 19): Vow to release POWs
NDFP accuses AFP of butchering 2 civilians
NDFP accuses AFP of butchering 2 civilians
THE COMMUNIST Party of the Philippines (CPP) vows to release six prisoners of war as a gesture of its desire to continue peace talks with the government.
This as the National Democratic Front (NDFP) accused the AFP of executing two civilians during the series of encounters in Calinan and Paquibato districts.
The CPP, in a statement posted at its website www.philippinerevolution.info, urged President Rodrigo Duterte to send his peace panel to the scheduled talks in the Netherlands on Feb. 22 to 27 to continue the gains of the previous rounds of talks in Oslo, Norway and Rome, Italy.
The CPP, in a statement posted at its website www.philippinerevolution.info, urged President Rodrigo Duterte to send his peace panel to the scheduled talks in the Netherlands on Feb. 22 to 27 to continue the gains of the previous rounds of talks in Oslo, Norway and Rome, Italy.
“As a positive gesture, the Party calls on all concerned NPA units to expedite the release of the six prisoners of war (POWs) captured over the past days,” the statement said.
The political party urged the assistance of third party facilitators to expedite the release.
Meanwhile, the statement also called for the withdrawal of troops by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for the safe release of the POWs.
The POWs, currently in New People’s Army, custody are Pfc Edwin Salan, captured in Alegria, Surigao del Norte on Jan. 29; Sgt. Solaiman Calucop and Pfc Samuel Garay, captured in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat on Feb. 2; PO2 Jerome Natividad, captured in Talakag, Bukidnon on Feb. 9; paramilitary Rene Doller and paramilitary Carl Mark, captured in Lupon, Davao Oriental on Feb. 14.
The CPP statement said that the party is reiterating its support for efforts to forge a bilateral ceasefire agreement. “The revolutionary forces are encouraged by the previous statements of GRP President Duterte that all political prisoners will be released within 48 hours once the bilateral ceasefire agreement is signed.”
“However difficult, the revolutionary forces are willing to work with the GRP negotiators to hammer out a bilateral ceasefire agreement that will be mutually acceptable and enforceable,” the statement said.
The statement comes after the National Democratic Front (NDFP) accused the AFP of executing two civilians during the series of encounters in Calinan and Paquibato districts.
In a previous statement the Regional Operations Command of the NPA Southern Mindanao said the AFP suffered 12 dead and 20 wounded and lambasted the 10th Infantry Division in several encounters last week.
Rigoberto Sanchez, NPA Southern Mindanao, said that three coordinated attacks by the 1st Pulang Bagani Battalion has led the government to suffer a score of infantry troops, with only one rebel killed.
The political party urged the assistance of third party facilitators to expedite the release.
Meanwhile, the statement also called for the withdrawal of troops by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for the safe release of the POWs.
The POWs, currently in New People’s Army, custody are Pfc Edwin Salan, captured in Alegria, Surigao del Norte on Jan. 29; Sgt. Solaiman Calucop and Pfc Samuel Garay, captured in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat on Feb. 2; PO2 Jerome Natividad, captured in Talakag, Bukidnon on Feb. 9; paramilitary Rene Doller and paramilitary Carl Mark, captured in Lupon, Davao Oriental on Feb. 14.
The CPP statement said that the party is reiterating its support for efforts to forge a bilateral ceasefire agreement. “The revolutionary forces are encouraged by the previous statements of GRP President Duterte that all political prisoners will be released within 48 hours once the bilateral ceasefire agreement is signed.”
“However difficult, the revolutionary forces are willing to work with the GRP negotiators to hammer out a bilateral ceasefire agreement that will be mutually acceptable and enforceable,” the statement said.
The statement comes after the National Democratic Front (NDFP) accused the AFP of executing two civilians during the series of encounters in Calinan and Paquibato districts.
In a previous statement the Regional Operations Command of the NPA Southern Mindanao said the AFP suffered 12 dead and 20 wounded and lambasted the 10th Infantry Division in several encounters last week.
Rigoberto Sanchez, NPA Southern Mindanao, said that three coordinated attacks by the 1st Pulang Bagani Battalion has led the government to suffer a score of infantry troops, with only one rebel killed.
Sanchez also accused the military of summarily executing two civilians in the aftermath of the encounters.
Lanao Norte rido spills over into CDO; 3 killed in public market shootout
From MindaNews (Feb 20): Lanao Norte rido spills over into CDO; 3 killed in public market shootout
A bloody feud between two political clans in Lanao del Norte spilled over into this city Sunday afternoon where a gun battle erupted, killing three persons.
Killed were Mawei Batuintan alias “ Mawi Solaiman,” 28, an employee of Jabbar Marketing, an ukay-ukay store along Daumar Street, and two still unidentified gunmen.
Rido. Policeman guards the body of Mawie Batuintan, 28, at the corner of Daumar and Yacapin streets in Cagayan de Oro Sunday afternoon. His killers were also killed in what is believed to be part of rido (clan feud) in Pantar, Lanao del Norte that spilled over into Cagayan de Oro. MindaNews Photo by FROILAN GALLARDO Police Chief Inspector Gilbert Rollen, chief of the Cogon market police station believes the violent incident has something to do with the rido (clan feud) between the late Pantar, Lanao del Norte Mayor Mohammad Exchan Gabriel Limbona and his political opponent Magondaya Tago.
He said Jabbar Tago sought the help of the Cogon police two weeks ago claiming he received several death threats.
Jabbar, a nephew of Magondaya Tago, ran against Limbona but lost in the May 2016 elections.
Limbona was killed in an ambush in Sitio Paitan, Barangay Dalipuga in Iligan City on December 30, 2016.
The running feud between these political clans in Pantar town, Lanao del Norte spilled over into the streets of Cagayan de Oro near the Cogon public market.
Rollen said at least two gunmen and another suspect driving a red Honda XRM motorcycle approached Batuintan at the corner of Yacapin and Daumar streets Sunday afternoon.
He said the two gunmen pumped 18 caliber .45 bullets at Batuintan, killing him instantly.
Rollen said after killing Batuintan, the gunmen and their driver made a mistake by escaping towards the direction of Jabbar Marketing, an ukay-ukay store along Daumar Street.
“We believed Batuintan’s companions at the store fired at the gunman as they tried to flee,” Rollen said.
Rollen said when they interviewed those who were in the store, nobody came forward to say they saw the incident.
Batuintan was Jabbar’s store employee and nephew. 
43 empty shells. Police investigators bag the 43 empty shells of caliber .45 found at the scene of the crime at Daumar and Yacapin streets in Cagayan de Oro Sunday afternoon. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO
Cogon police investigator PO1 Neil de las Alas said Batuintan sustained 18 bullet wounds with the two gunmen emptying their caliber .45 pistols as he lay dead on the street corner.
De las Alas said the gunman who was wearing a blue shirt sustained 11 gunshot wounds while his driver sustained five gunshot wounds.
The two were found dead slumped over the red motorcycle a few meters in front of the ukay-ukay store.
A caliber .45 pistol with an empty magazine was found on the unidentified gunman who was wearing a blue tshirt, along with a spare single-stack caliber .45 ammunition clip from the left pocket of his denims, 200-peso bills and a 20-peso bill
The two gunmen carried no identification papers.
Forty three empty caliber .45 shells were found at the crime scene, proof of how violent the gunfight was, de las Alas said.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/02/lanao-norte-rido-spills-over-into-cdo-3-killed-in-public-market-shootout/
A bloody feud between two political clans in Lanao del Norte spilled over into this city Sunday afternoon where a gun battle erupted, killing three persons.
Killed were Mawei Batuintan alias “ Mawi Solaiman,” 28, an employee of Jabbar Marketing, an ukay-ukay store along Daumar Street, and two still unidentified gunmen.
He said Jabbar Tago sought the help of the Cogon police two weeks ago claiming he received several death threats.
Jabbar, a nephew of Magondaya Tago, ran against Limbona but lost in the May 2016 elections.
Limbona was killed in an ambush in Sitio Paitan, Barangay Dalipuga in Iligan City on December 30, 2016.
The running feud between these political clans in Pantar town, Lanao del Norte spilled over into the streets of Cagayan de Oro near the Cogon public market.
Rollen said at least two gunmen and another suspect driving a red Honda XRM motorcycle approached Batuintan at the corner of Yacapin and Daumar streets Sunday afternoon.
He said the two gunmen pumped 18 caliber .45 bullets at Batuintan, killing him instantly.
Rollen said after killing Batuintan, the gunmen and their driver made a mistake by escaping towards the direction of Jabbar Marketing, an ukay-ukay store along Daumar Street.
“We believed Batuintan’s companions at the store fired at the gunman as they tried to flee,” Rollen said.
Rollen said when they interviewed those who were in the store, nobody came forward to say they saw the incident.
Batuintan was Jabbar’s store employee and nephew.
Cogon police investigator PO1 Neil de las Alas said Batuintan sustained 18 bullet wounds with the two gunmen emptying their caliber .45 pistols as he lay dead on the street corner.
De las Alas said the gunman who was wearing a blue shirt sustained 11 gunshot wounds while his driver sustained five gunshot wounds.
The two were found dead slumped over the red motorcycle a few meters in front of the ukay-ukay store.
A caliber .45 pistol with an empty magazine was found on the unidentified gunman who was wearing a blue tshirt, along with a spare single-stack caliber .45 ammunition clip from the left pocket of his denims, 200-peso bills and a 20-peso bill
The two gunmen carried no identification papers.
Forty three empty caliber .45 shells were found at the crime scene, proof of how violent the gunfight was, de las Alas said.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/02/lanao-norte-rido-spills-over-into-cdo-3-killed-in-public-market-shootout/
PEACETALK: I step down with the pride and honor
From the MindaViews section of MindaNews (Feb 20): PEACETALK: I step down with the pride and honor
(Message delivered by Muslimin G. Sema when he stepped down as Chair of the MNLF during the Central Committee meeting on Sunday, February 19, 2017 in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur).
To my fellow members of the Central Committee of the Moro National Liberation Front;
Assalamu Alaikom Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh;
No one could ever imagine the Moro National Liberation Front can surmount the decades of intrigues, division and abject one man rule. But we survived.
Every intrigue, we survived; Every demeaning branding as traitors, we survived; Every attempt to further divide us, we survived; Every systematic isolation, we survived, and Every attack at our relevance, alignment and commitment to our cause and the aspirations of people, we survived.
We withstood the antagonism of time and political changes not because of our desire for power but mainly on our constant and consistent desire to achieve our people’s aspirations, no matter what it takes.
Likewise, our commitment to a just and lasting peace was challenged like no other in the history of the Bangsamoro Struggle. We were pushed to the wall with no choice except to abandon the peace process. Yet we did not abandon. We held on with an unbreakable spirit.
We overcame the seemingly insurmountable challenges because we held on to our unity and to our firm adherence in the collective leadership of the Central Committee where Wa Amruhoom Shura Bainahoom is supreme.
We are firm, we are adamant, we are resolute that our victory, our people’s victory rests not on one man but on a united front collectively led by its members.
It is almost nine years now since you have elected me in 2008 to be your Chairman in the Central Committee. I accepted the challenge; and where we are right now in our struggle and in the scheme of events taking place in our homeland is the full measure of the responsibility you have entrusted me. We have had shortcomings during my tenure but we have had substantial successes in our political struggle and I am confident that our achievements in the last decade has placed us in a rightful spot and on target.
Nonetheless, I ask for forgiveness for the shortcomings I may have committed as chairman of the central committee.
That being said, the Moro National Liberation Front must move forward further. We are now at a peculiar stage of our struggle brought about by the political changes that occurred around us.
We must take notice of the following:
(Message delivered by Muslimin G. Sema when he stepped down as Chair of the MNLF during the Central Committee meeting on Sunday, February 19, 2017 in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur).
To my fellow members of the Central Committee of the Moro National Liberation Front;
Assalamu Alaikom Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh;
No one could ever imagine the Moro National Liberation Front can surmount the decades of intrigues, division and abject one man rule. But we survived.
Every intrigue, we survived; Every demeaning branding as traitors, we survived; Every attempt to further divide us, we survived; Every systematic isolation, we survived, and Every attack at our relevance, alignment and commitment to our cause and the aspirations of people, we survived.
We withstood the antagonism of time and political changes not because of our desire for power but mainly on our constant and consistent desire to achieve our people’s aspirations, no matter what it takes.
Likewise, our commitment to a just and lasting peace was challenged like no other in the history of the Bangsamoro Struggle. We were pushed to the wall with no choice except to abandon the peace process. Yet we did not abandon. We held on with an unbreakable spirit.
We overcame the seemingly insurmountable challenges because we held on to our unity and to our firm adherence in the collective leadership of the Central Committee where Wa Amruhoom Shura Bainahoom is supreme.
We are firm, we are adamant, we are resolute that our victory, our people’s victory rests not on one man but on a united front collectively led by its members.
It is almost nine years now since you have elected me in 2008 to be your Chairman in the Central Committee. I accepted the challenge; and where we are right now in our struggle and in the scheme of events taking place in our homeland is the full measure of the responsibility you have entrusted me. We have had shortcomings during my tenure but we have had substantial successes in our political struggle and I am confident that our achievements in the last decade has placed us in a rightful spot and on target.
Nonetheless, I ask for forgiveness for the shortcomings I may have committed as chairman of the central committee.
That being said, the Moro National Liberation Front must move forward further. We are now at a peculiar stage of our struggle brought about by the political changes that occurred around us.
We must take notice of the following:
- The Philippines has a new President who is from Mindanao.
- The OIC has a new Secretary General.
- We have established strategic positioning in the peace process by a strengthened working relationship with our brothers in the MILF through the Bangsamoro Coordinating Forum
- The convergence process where the implementation of all peace agreements under one implementing law is now possible.
- The Government of the Philippines is geared towards amending the 1987 Constitution leaning strongly on establishing a federal system of governance.
- The continued rise of Islamic Extremism. We must meet all of these unfolding events head on for the sake of peace and the next generation cognizant that any failure on our part will further justify our youth’s bolder resort to extreme measures.
Brothers and sisters, in order that we remain at pace with the political events taking place, there is no doubt of the need for us to adapt in a manner responsive and appropriate. Our response should be calibrated, that we should also have a new and reinvigorated collective leadership.
In today’s meeting of the Central Committee, we should keenly glimpse at the present with all its configurations and characterization that every one of us must come to terms with, in order that the struggle and aspirations of our people will fit in the shapes and sizes of the events taking place.
Thus, we must agree that the Collective Leadership of the Moro National Liberation Front must be further strengthened by a massive reorganization from helm to hem.
But our thrust to reorganize must not be merely parochial. Rather, it must be reflective of our gaze of the present stage of our struggle and our foresight. Our reorganization should result to increase the burning ember in our hearts, inspiring all of us, from top to bottom, to unite beyond the islands, mountains, waters and tribal biases that separate and differentiate us and to be as ardent revolutionaries as when we were still able to carry our weapons, our rucksacks, our injured comrades and the bodies of our martyred brothers.
Brothers and sisters in the Central Committee, our Jihad Fii Sabilillah has been prophesied to succeed.
Yet our success is conditioned largely on the strength of our faith and the choices we make and not on the chances we have or we take. Thus, if we choose to continue; if we choose to hold on to our ideology and slogans; if we choose to unite and depend on each other; We will be victorious.
Nevertheless, our chances of achieving our aspirations during our lifetime is slimmer as time passes by. Hence, our task to reorganize must be geared towards ensuring the achievement of our collective aspirations even when time will have run out on us. We must measure up to the challenges of the present and at the same time measure up for the future in a manner that our decision to reorganize is an essential transition to the future.
Finally, my personal decision to step down as Chairman of the Central Committee reflects my strong adherence to the collective leadership of the Central Committee, the democratic values enshrined in the Charter of the MNLF, and to reiterate to the whole world, that no one man shall forever rule the MNLF and the Bangsamoro.
Brothers and sisters, I step down with the pride and honor you bestowed me when you trusted me to lead the central committee and the MNLF. I step down fully aware that I will be judged by the Almighty according to what history has witnessed. I am stepping down lighthearted, at peace with you and at peace with the whole world.
Wa Billahi Tawfiq Wal Hidayah Wassalaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh.
Sema steps down as MNLF chair; Jikiri takes over
From MindaNews (Feb 20): Sema steps down as MNLF chair; Jikiri takes over
Muslimin Sema, chair of a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) since 2008 stepped down as chair on Sunday to adhere to the collective leadership of the Central Committee and “to reiterate to the whole world, that no one man shall forever rule the MNLF and the Bangsamoro.”
Former Sulu Governor and Representative Yusoph Jikiri was elected to take over Sema’s post. (see related story)
“My personal decision to step down as Chairman of the Central Committee reflects my strong adherence to the collective leadership of the Central Committee, the democratic values enshrined in the Charter of the MNLF, and to reiterate to the whole world, that no one man shall forever rule the MNLF and the Bangsamoro,” Sema said during the Central Committee meeting in Pagadian City.
“I step down with the pride and honor you bestowed me when you trusted me to lead the central committee and the MNLF. I step down fully aware that I will be judged by the Almighty according to what history has witnessed. I am stepping down lighthearted, at peace with you and at peace with the whole world,” Sema said.
Sema was Secretary-General of the MNLF chaired by Nur Misuari during the peace negotiations from 1992 to 1996, served as Executive Secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) when Misuari was elected Governor, and was elected mayor of Cotabato City from 1998 until he was unseated in March 2001 but was elected for three three-year terms from 2001 to 2010.
Sema was part of the 12-member Executive Council that unseated Misuari in 2001 and elected him as Chair Emeritus. Misuari, however, held on to his own faction of the MNLF.
New set of officials
In Sunday’s election, Sema was elected chair of the Bangsamoro People’s Congress, the MNLF’s parliamentary arm. The other elected officials are: Prof. Duma Sani, Vice Chair for Military Affairs: Hatimil Hassan, Vice Chair for Internal Affairs; Firdausi Abbas, Vice Chair for External Affairs; Romeo Sema , Vice Chair for Political Affairs; and Abu Amri Taddik as Deputy Secretary General for Military Affairs.
New leadership. The new leaders of the MNLF in a press conference in Pagadian City (left to right): Yusoph Jikiri, Chair; Muslimin Sema, Chair of the Bangsamoro People’s Congress; Prof. Duma Sani, Vice Chair; Hatimil Hassan, Vice Chair, Internal Affairs; Maj. Gen. Datun “Doc” Diocolano, Chief of Staff, BAF: Abdul Sahrin, Secretary General; Rasul Rasdi, Deputy Secretary General; and Firdausi Abbas, Vice Chair, External Affairs. Photo courtesy of OMAR SEMA
Maj. Gen. Datun “Doc” Diocolano is Chief of Staff of the Bangsamoro Armed Forces; Abdul Sahrin is Secretary-General and Rasul Rasdi is Deputy Secretary General.
Sema said the MNLF has surmounted decades of “intrigues, division and abject one man rule” but “we survived.”
“We withstood the antagonism of time and political changes not because of our desire for power but mainly on our constant and consistent desire to achieve our people’s aspirations, no matter what it takes,” he said.
He said they managed to overcome the challenges becuase ot their “firm adherence in the collective leadership of the Central Commiitee,.”
Political changes
He asked for forgiveness “for the shortcomings I may have committed as chairman” but added that the MNLF “must move forward further” because of the “peculiar stage of our struggle” brought about by the political changes around us.
He listed these changes as follows:
Muslimin Sema, chair of a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) since 2008 stepped down as chair on Sunday to adhere to the collective leadership of the Central Committee and “to reiterate to the whole world, that no one man shall forever rule the MNLF and the Bangsamoro.”
Former Sulu Governor and Representative Yusoph Jikiri was elected to take over Sema’s post. (see related story)
“My personal decision to step down as Chairman of the Central Committee reflects my strong adherence to the collective leadership of the Central Committee, the democratic values enshrined in the Charter of the MNLF, and to reiterate to the whole world, that no one man shall forever rule the MNLF and the Bangsamoro,” Sema said during the Central Committee meeting in Pagadian City.
“I step down with the pride and honor you bestowed me when you trusted me to lead the central committee and the MNLF. I step down fully aware that I will be judged by the Almighty according to what history has witnessed. I am stepping down lighthearted, at peace with you and at peace with the whole world,” Sema said.
Sema was Secretary-General of the MNLF chaired by Nur Misuari during the peace negotiations from 1992 to 1996, served as Executive Secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) when Misuari was elected Governor, and was elected mayor of Cotabato City from 1998 until he was unseated in March 2001 but was elected for three three-year terms from 2001 to 2010.
Sema was part of the 12-member Executive Council that unseated Misuari in 2001 and elected him as Chair Emeritus. Misuari, however, held on to his own faction of the MNLF.
New set of officials
In Sunday’s election, Sema was elected chair of the Bangsamoro People’s Congress, the MNLF’s parliamentary arm. The other elected officials are: Prof. Duma Sani, Vice Chair for Military Affairs: Hatimil Hassan, Vice Chair for Internal Affairs; Firdausi Abbas, Vice Chair for External Affairs; Romeo Sema , Vice Chair for Political Affairs; and Abu Amri Taddik as Deputy Secretary General for Military Affairs.
Maj. Gen. Datun “Doc” Diocolano is Chief of Staff of the Bangsamoro Armed Forces; Abdul Sahrin is Secretary-General and Rasul Rasdi is Deputy Secretary General.
Sema said the MNLF has surmounted decades of “intrigues, division and abject one man rule” but “we survived.”
“We withstood the antagonism of time and political changes not because of our desire for power but mainly on our constant and consistent desire to achieve our people’s aspirations, no matter what it takes,” he said.
He said they managed to overcome the challenges becuase ot their “firm adherence in the collective leadership of the Central Commiitee,.”
Political changes
He asked for forgiveness “for the shortcomings I may have committed as chairman” but added that the MNLF “must move forward further” because of the “peculiar stage of our struggle” brought about by the political changes around us.
He listed these changes as follows:
- The Philippines has a new President who is from Mindanao.
- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) where the MNLF has an observer status, has a new Secretary General.
- Strategic positioning in the peace process established by a strengthened working relationship with the MILF through the Bangsamoro Coordinating Forum
- Convergence process where the implementation of all peace agreements under one implementing law is now possible.
- The Philippine Government is geared towards amending the 1987 Constitution, leaning strongly on establishing a federal system of governance.
The continued rise of Islamic Extremism.
“We must meet all of these unfolding events head on for the sake of peace and the next generation cognizant that any failure on our part will further justify our youth’s bolder resort to extreme measures,” he said.
Sema’s 26-year old son with Maguindanao Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, Datu Mohamad Abduljabbar Sema, elected chair of Barangay Rosary Heights 7 in Cotabato City was arrested in Kuala Lumpur late last year allegedly in connection with the Sept. 2, 2016 bombing at the Roxas Night Market in Davao City that left 15 persons dead and 69 others injured.
Sema’s older son from an earlier marriage, Omar Yasser Crisostomo Sema, has just been named by President Duterte as one of 21 members of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission.
Sema said they have to “remain at pace” with the political events taking place and to do this “we must agree that the Collective Leadership of the Moro National Liberation Front must be further strengthened by a massive reorganization from helm to hem.”
He explained that the reorganization must not be merely parochial but “reflective of our gaze of the present stage of our struggle and our foresight.”
Unite beyond the islands, mountains, waters and tribal biases
“Our reorganization should result to increase the burning ember in our hearts, inspiring all of us, from top to bottom, to unite beyond the islands, mountains, waters and tribal biases that separate and differentiate us and to be as ardent revolutionaries as when we were still able to carry our weapons, our rucksacks, our injured comrades and the bodies of our martyred brothers,” he said
He said their chances of achieving their aspirations during their lifetime is “slimmer as time passes by” but “we must measure up to the challenges of the present and at the same time measure up for the future in a manner that our decision to reorganize is an essential transition to the future.”
Dureza: “Let us all wait” for the President’s order to return to nego table
From MindaNews (Feb 20): Dureza: “Let us all wait” for the President’s order to return to nego table
After calling off the peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF) and ordering the arrest of its consultants President Rodrigo Duterte “had clearly committed to reconsider his decisions if there are compelling reasons to do so,” Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said, as he urged the public to be patient. “Let us all wait for that determination.”
“We are all committed to achieving just and lasting peace in the land,” Dureza said in a statement released by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.
Government peace panel chair Silvestre Bello III told MindaNews they will meet with President Duterte Monday night to discuss the next steps.
HAPPIER DAYS. Presidential Peace Process Adviser Jesus Dureza shows a miniature Philippine flag during the resumption of peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front on October 6, 2016 in Oslo, Norway. File photo courtesy of Edwin Espejo/OPAPP
Duterte is likely to order a return to the negotiating table as ending the conflict with the CPP-NPA-NDF and the Moro revolutionary fronts has been among his top campaign promises.
When that order will be issued might be known after Monday night’s meeting.
Duterte lifted the unilateral ceasefire on February 3, called off the talks on February 4 and on February 5 tagged the CPP-NPA-NDF a “terrorist group” and NDF chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison, his Professor in Political Thought, a “terrorist.” He also ordered the arrest of NDF consultants he had released in August to participate in the peace negotiations and said he would only return to the negotiating table if there is a “compelling reason” to do so.
“I do not know what would be that reason. But always it would be in the interest of the nation,” he said.
After venting his anger for three days in succession, Duterte kept quiet from February 6, referring to it again on February 12 in Surigao City, hinting a resumption of the talks “in due time.”
In Cebuano, he said, the parties are not talking now but “in due time this will be resolved because it is really not about ideology but it is about the Filipino people. Ug unsay maayo sa atong katawhan” (Whatever is best for the people).
Offering peace
Also on Monday morning, Davao City Mayor Sara Dutere-Carpio, the President’s daughter, issued a statement offering her willingness to talk to the New People’s Army (NPA) following the series of events in the third district of the city, that left several persons dead.
On February 16 alone, five combatants — two soldiers and three NPA guerrillas — were killed and 15 soldiers were injured in a landmine blast.
“In light of the recent events in the third district of Davao City that resulted in the deaths of our fellow Filipinos, I am offering my hand in peace to the New People’s Army. I am willing to listen, if the NPA is willing to talk,” Mayor Duterte said.
“My only condition, at this point is, I want to talk to them as a group. I will not accept individuals who want to voluntarily surrender. I have a plan but I want to listen first to what you have to say,” the mayor added.
She said her offer to talk “is limited by my authority over the area of my responsibility” and suggested to the NPA to “think about this offer seriously since this will benefit you, our fellow Dabawenyos, and our beloved city.”
She warned that “in the event that you will decline my offer, I can only pray that there will be no more deaths and leave everything to AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and to God.”
Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate told MindaNews Mayor Duterte’s offer is a “welcome gesture.”
“To engage the NPA on issues that come within the competence of the local government unit, I think that is a welcome gesture.” It’s better than the LGU itself facilitates the ‘all out war’ that the AFP is drumbeating,” he said.
But Zarate cautioned that the local engagement with the NPA “must compliment, not supplant, the peace talks of the GRP-NDF peace panels.”
The NDF represents the NPA and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in the peace negotiations.
Heed the clamor
On Sunday, the CPP issued a statement calling on President Duterte to heed the clamor of various groups to reconsider his decision terminating the peace negotiations with the NDF as it expressed willingness to proceed with the February 22 to 27 negotiations in The Netherlands, to work on a bilateral ceasefire agreement.
As a “positive gesture,” the CPP called on NPA units to “expedite the release” of four soldiers and two paramilitary elements it captured in Alegria in Surigao del Norte, Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, Talakag in Bukidnon and Lupon in Davao Oriental “before or during” the Netherlands talks if the AFP withdraws from the area where the captives will be freed.
The government and NDF have had three rounds of formal peace talks since August, its last held on January 19 to 25 in Rome.
Before the first round of formal talks, however, a crisis occurred that nearly led tot the cancellation of the schedule but was resolved “in due time.”
Duterte lifted the unilateral ceasefire he declared during his first SONA on July 25, after five days, following the killing of a Cafgu paramilitary member and the wounding of four others in Davao del Norte on July 27.
He gave the NDF a 24-hour ultimatum to reciprocate his declaration and lifted it when the 24-hour deadline lapsed, warned he would call off the talks if the rebels used landmine again following the death of five soldiers in an ambush by the NPA in Compostela Valley and Bukidnon.
Despite these, however, Duterte ordered the government peace panel to proceed to Oslo in Norway for the first round of formal talks and pushed for the release of the NDF consultants to allow them to participate in the Oslo talks.
In his first SONA, Duterte had appealed to the CPP/NPA/NDF: “let us end these decades of ambuscades and skirmishes. We are going nowhere, and it is getting bloodier by the day.”
He declared a unilateral ceasefire “effective immediately” to “immediately stop violence on the ground, restore peace in the communities and provide an enabling environment conducive to the resumption of the peace talks.”
“We will strive to have a permanent and lasting peace before my term ends. That is my goal. That is my dream,” Duterte said.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2017/02/dureza-let-us-all-wait-for-the-presidents-order-to-return-to-nego-table/
After calling off the peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF) and ordering the arrest of its consultants President Rodrigo Duterte “had clearly committed to reconsider his decisions if there are compelling reasons to do so,” Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said, as he urged the public to be patient. “Let us all wait for that determination.”
“We are all committed to achieving just and lasting peace in the land,” Dureza said in a statement released by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.
Government peace panel chair Silvestre Bello III told MindaNews they will meet with President Duterte Monday night to discuss the next steps.
HAPPIER DAYS. Presidential Peace Process Adviser Jesus Dureza shows a miniature Philippine flag during the resumption of peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front on October 6, 2016 in Oslo, Norway. File photo courtesy of Edwin Espejo/OPAPP
Duterte is likely to order a return to the negotiating table as ending the conflict with the CPP-NPA-NDF and the Moro revolutionary fronts has been among his top campaign promises.
When that order will be issued might be known after Monday night’s meeting.
Duterte lifted the unilateral ceasefire on February 3, called off the talks on February 4 and on February 5 tagged the CPP-NPA-NDF a “terrorist group” and NDF chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison, his Professor in Political Thought, a “terrorist.” He also ordered the arrest of NDF consultants he had released in August to participate in the peace negotiations and said he would only return to the negotiating table if there is a “compelling reason” to do so.
“I do not know what would be that reason. But always it would be in the interest of the nation,” he said.
After venting his anger for three days in succession, Duterte kept quiet from February 6, referring to it again on February 12 in Surigao City, hinting a resumption of the talks “in due time.”
In Cebuano, he said, the parties are not talking now but “in due time this will be resolved because it is really not about ideology but it is about the Filipino people. Ug unsay maayo sa atong katawhan” (Whatever is best for the people).
Offering peace
Also on Monday morning, Davao City Mayor Sara Dutere-Carpio, the President’s daughter, issued a statement offering her willingness to talk to the New People’s Army (NPA) following the series of events in the third district of the city, that left several persons dead.
On February 16 alone, five combatants — two soldiers and three NPA guerrillas — were killed and 15 soldiers were injured in a landmine blast.
“In light of the recent events in the third district of Davao City that resulted in the deaths of our fellow Filipinos, I am offering my hand in peace to the New People’s Army. I am willing to listen, if the NPA is willing to talk,” Mayor Duterte said.
“My only condition, at this point is, I want to talk to them as a group. I will not accept individuals who want to voluntarily surrender. I have a plan but I want to listen first to what you have to say,” the mayor added.
She said her offer to talk “is limited by my authority over the area of my responsibility” and suggested to the NPA to “think about this offer seriously since this will benefit you, our fellow Dabawenyos, and our beloved city.”
She warned that “in the event that you will decline my offer, I can only pray that there will be no more deaths and leave everything to AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and to God.”
Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate told MindaNews Mayor Duterte’s offer is a “welcome gesture.”
“To engage the NPA on issues that come within the competence of the local government unit, I think that is a welcome gesture.” It’s better than the LGU itself facilitates the ‘all out war’ that the AFP is drumbeating,” he said.
But Zarate cautioned that the local engagement with the NPA “must compliment, not supplant, the peace talks of the GRP-NDF peace panels.”
The NDF represents the NPA and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in the peace negotiations.
Heed the clamor
On Sunday, the CPP issued a statement calling on President Duterte to heed the clamor of various groups to reconsider his decision terminating the peace negotiations with the NDF as it expressed willingness to proceed with the February 22 to 27 negotiations in The Netherlands, to work on a bilateral ceasefire agreement.
As a “positive gesture,” the CPP called on NPA units to “expedite the release” of four soldiers and two paramilitary elements it captured in Alegria in Surigao del Norte, Columbio in Sultan Kudarat, Talakag in Bukidnon and Lupon in Davao Oriental “before or during” the Netherlands talks if the AFP withdraws from the area where the captives will be freed.
The government and NDF have had three rounds of formal peace talks since August, its last held on January 19 to 25 in Rome.
Before the first round of formal talks, however, a crisis occurred that nearly led tot the cancellation of the schedule but was resolved “in due time.”
Duterte lifted the unilateral ceasefire he declared during his first SONA on July 25, after five days, following the killing of a Cafgu paramilitary member and the wounding of four others in Davao del Norte on July 27.
He gave the NDF a 24-hour ultimatum to reciprocate his declaration and lifted it when the 24-hour deadline lapsed, warned he would call off the talks if the rebels used landmine again following the death of five soldiers in an ambush by the NPA in Compostela Valley and Bukidnon.
Despite these, however, Duterte ordered the government peace panel to proceed to Oslo in Norway for the first round of formal talks and pushed for the release of the NDF consultants to allow them to participate in the Oslo talks.
In his first SONA, Duterte had appealed to the CPP/NPA/NDF: “let us end these decades of ambuscades and skirmishes. We are going nowhere, and it is getting bloodier by the day.”
He declared a unilateral ceasefire “effective immediately” to “immediately stop violence on the ground, restore peace in the communities and provide an enabling environment conducive to the resumption of the peace talks.”
“We will strive to have a permanent and lasting peace before my term ends. That is my goal. That is my dream,” Duterte said.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2017/02/dureza-let-us-all-wait-for-the-presidents-order-to-return-to-nego-table/
Teenage rebel killed in clash with troops in Zamboanga town (Graphic photos)
From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 20): Teenage rebel killed in clash with troops in Zamboanga town
Police photo shows the body of the slain communist fighter, Jaboy Pruto, following a clash in Zamboanga del Sur’s Lakewood town
A young communist fighter was killed in a clash with government troops in the town of Lakewood in Zamboanga del Sur province in southern Philipines, police said on Monday.
It said the 16-year old casualty has been identified as Jaboy Pruto, also of Lakewood town and was a member of the New People’s Army whose group is fighting for a separate communist state in the country.
The weekend fighting erupted in the village called Gasa after soldiers from the 53rd Infantry Battalion tracked down a band of rebels.
Senior Superintendent Avelmar Renan Garambas, the town’s police chief, said the clash lasted only about 10 minutes. He said the body of the slain rebel was recovered by soldiers. “Recovered from the encounter site is one cadaver identified as Jaboy Pruto, 16-years old, and a resident of Purok 1 in Barangay Matalang,” Garambas said.
There was no immediate statement from the NPA, but police said it has ordered a tight security in the town to protect civilians from possible retaliation of rebels.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/teenage-rebel-killed-in-clash-with-troops-in-zamboanga-town/
Police photo shows the body of the slain communist fighter, Jaboy Pruto, following a clash in Zamboanga del Sur’s Lakewood town
A young communist fighter was killed in a clash with government troops in the town of Lakewood in Zamboanga del Sur province in southern Philipines, police said on Monday.
It said the 16-year old casualty has been identified as Jaboy Pruto, also of Lakewood town and was a member of the New People’s Army whose group is fighting for a separate communist state in the country.
The weekend fighting erupted in the village called Gasa after soldiers from the 53rd Infantry Battalion tracked down a band of rebels.
Senior Superintendent Avelmar Renan Garambas, the town’s police chief, said the clash lasted only about 10 minutes. He said the body of the slain rebel was recovered by soldiers. “Recovered from the encounter site is one cadaver identified as Jaboy Pruto, 16-years old, and a resident of Purok 1 in Barangay Matalang,” Garambas said.
There was no immediate statement from the NPA, but police said it has ordered a tight security in the town to protect civilians from possible retaliation of rebels.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/teenage-rebel-killed-in-clash-with-troops-in-zamboanga-town/
Vietnamese cargo ship attacked off Tawi-Tawi; one killed, 6 abducted
From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 20): Vietnamese cargo ship attacked off Tawi-Tawi; one killed, 6 abducted
Suspected Abu Sayyaf rebels hijacked a cargo ship off the southern Philippine province of Tawi-Tawi and abducted 6 Vietnamese sailors and killed one crew member before escaping to the open sea, ther military said Monday.
It said security forces also recovered the body of the slain sailor and rescued 10 other Vietnamese crewmen of MV Giang Hai and brought them to the nearest dock in Taganak Island. “Local fishermen reported Monday morning that they sighted a vessel at the vicinity of Turtle Island which appears to have been sea-jacked. Elements of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 8 proceeded to the area to respond and found the crewmen on board,” a military report said.
An interpreter interviewed the Vietnamese sailors, but details of this were not immediately available, although security forces in the area have been alerted on the abductions. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the latest hijacking, but military units suspect the Abu Sayyaf was behind the attack.
The military’s Western Mindanao Command said that one Abu Sayyaf rebel, Al Abdullah, was also killed on Sunday afternoon in a clash with soldiers on Turtle Island.
It said Abdullah was first interrogated by soldiers after armed men – believed to be Abu Sayyaf rebels – stayed in his house. After investigation, Abdullah was allowed to go home, but returned with an automatic rifle and fired upon the soldiers and a fire fight ensued until he was eventually killed.
The military said it was searching for the armed men who were later identified as Absar, Musub Baudin, and Man Baudi. All remain at large. “This is a big setback on the Abu Sayyaf group as we continue to intensify the conduct of law enforcement operations along with the police and maximize intel monitoring to pre-empt kidnappings within our joint area of operations,” said Major General Carlito Galvez, the regional military commander.
It was unknown whether Abdullah or any of the gunmen participated in the hijacking of the Vietnamese ship.
Just in January, a group of Abu Sayyaf rebels tried, but failed to hijack a Filipino cargo ship while sailing off Basilan province also in southern Philippines. The gunmen, on board two speedboats, attacked the vessel Ocean Kingdom – manned by over 2 dozen sailors – off Sibago Island while heading to Davao City to deliver its cargo.
Security forces, alerted by the attack, rushed to the area and secured the cargo boat owned by Oceanic Shipping Lines. It was the second cargo ship attacked by rebels off Basilan since last year. Abu Sayyaf fighters also hijacked a Vietnamese cargo ship and seized 6 crewmen, including its captain in a daring attack on November 11 that left one sailor wounded.
The ship, MV Royal 16, was sailing off the province when 10 gunmen on a speedboat intercepted it off Sibago Island and boarded the vessel and abducted the crewmen. Another Filipino cargo ship, MV Lorcon Iloilo, passing near Basilan rescued the wounded sailor and provided him first aid.
The Abu Sayyaf is also holding over a dozen Malaysian and Indonesian sailors in the restive region.
President Rodrigo Duterte, who visited Kuala Lumpur last year, has allowed Malaysia to enter the country’s southern border in hot pursuit of Abu Sayyaf rebels and kidnap gangs following the slew of ransom kidnappings in Sabah just near the Muslim province of Tawi-Tawi.
Manila also allowed Indonesia to do the same following the spate of Abu Sayyaf attacks on its tugboats in Sabah and Tawi-Tawi. The Philippines has joint border patrol agreements with both Malaysia and Indonesia.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/vietnamese-cargo-ship-attacked-off-tawi-tawi-one-killed-7-abducted/
Suspected Abu Sayyaf rebels hijacked a cargo ship off the southern Philippine province of Tawi-Tawi and abducted 6 Vietnamese sailors and killed one crew member before escaping to the open sea, ther military said Monday.
It said security forces also recovered the body of the slain sailor and rescued 10 other Vietnamese crewmen of MV Giang Hai and brought them to the nearest dock in Taganak Island. “Local fishermen reported Monday morning that they sighted a vessel at the vicinity of Turtle Island which appears to have been sea-jacked. Elements of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 8 proceeded to the area to respond and found the crewmen on board,” a military report said.
An interpreter interviewed the Vietnamese sailors, but details of this were not immediately available, although security forces in the area have been alerted on the abductions. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the latest hijacking, but military units suspect the Abu Sayyaf was behind the attack.
The military’s Western Mindanao Command said that one Abu Sayyaf rebel, Al Abdullah, was also killed on Sunday afternoon in a clash with soldiers on Turtle Island.
It said Abdullah was first interrogated by soldiers after armed men – believed to be Abu Sayyaf rebels – stayed in his house. After investigation, Abdullah was allowed to go home, but returned with an automatic rifle and fired upon the soldiers and a fire fight ensued until he was eventually killed.
The military said it was searching for the armed men who were later identified as Absar, Musub Baudin, and Man Baudi. All remain at large. “This is a big setback on the Abu Sayyaf group as we continue to intensify the conduct of law enforcement operations along with the police and maximize intel monitoring to pre-empt kidnappings within our joint area of operations,” said Major General Carlito Galvez, the regional military commander.
It was unknown whether Abdullah or any of the gunmen participated in the hijacking of the Vietnamese ship.
Just in January, a group of Abu Sayyaf rebels tried, but failed to hijack a Filipino cargo ship while sailing off Basilan province also in southern Philippines. The gunmen, on board two speedboats, attacked the vessel Ocean Kingdom – manned by over 2 dozen sailors – off Sibago Island while heading to Davao City to deliver its cargo.
Security forces, alerted by the attack, rushed to the area and secured the cargo boat owned by Oceanic Shipping Lines. It was the second cargo ship attacked by rebels off Basilan since last year. Abu Sayyaf fighters also hijacked a Vietnamese cargo ship and seized 6 crewmen, including its captain in a daring attack on November 11 that left one sailor wounded.
The ship, MV Royal 16, was sailing off the province when 10 gunmen on a speedboat intercepted it off Sibago Island and boarded the vessel and abducted the crewmen. Another Filipino cargo ship, MV Lorcon Iloilo, passing near Basilan rescued the wounded sailor and provided him first aid.
The Abu Sayyaf is also holding over a dozen Malaysian and Indonesian sailors in the restive region.
President Rodrigo Duterte, who visited Kuala Lumpur last year, has allowed Malaysia to enter the country’s southern border in hot pursuit of Abu Sayyaf rebels and kidnap gangs following the slew of ransom kidnappings in Sabah just near the Muslim province of Tawi-Tawi.
Manila also allowed Indonesia to do the same following the spate of Abu Sayyaf attacks on its tugboats in Sabah and Tawi-Tawi. The Philippines has joint border patrol agreements with both Malaysia and Indonesia.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/vietnamese-cargo-ship-attacked-off-tawi-tawi-one-killed-7-abducted/
3ID has 200 new soldiers
From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20): 3ID has 200 new soldiers
Some 200 new soldiers have been added to the government troops.
This after they have completed completed the six-month rigid Candidate Soldier Course and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operation Course at the Division Training School at the 3ID headquarters, Public Affair Office head Lt. Col. Ericson Rosana of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.
He said that 3ID Commander Major General Jon Aying welcomed the new members of the government troopers in a graduation ceremonies held in Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan town, February 13.
Part of the ceremonies was the enlistment and entrustment of firearms of candidate soldiers Class 410 and 411-2016.
He said that Gen. Aying had emphasized to the new soldiers the true meaning of military professionalism.
The General likewise stressed that as a soldier, one must have faith in God, spotless morality, harmonious relationship with comrades and the people in the community in order that the required task will become easy, he said.
The 3ID Commander, he said, reminded them to use the firearms to win the battle of promoting peace and order in the countryside.
Rosana disclosed that the soldiers completed the six-month rigid Candidate Soldier Course and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operation Course at the Division Training School at the 3ID headquarters.
“The training that kicked off last August 1, 2016 aimed to provide the candidate soldiers with the basic knowledge and skills on soldiery, develop their character worthy to become members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and prepare them to perform their duties as riflemen of the infantry squads,” he said.
Rosana said that the new breed of soldiers will be among those who will bring peace and development in the countryside, particularly in Western and Central Visayas as well as Negros Island Region.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/991487556830/3id-has-200-new-soldiers
Some 200 new soldiers have been added to the government troops.
This after they have completed completed the six-month rigid Candidate Soldier Course and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operation Course at the Division Training School at the 3ID headquarters, Public Affair Office head Lt. Col. Ericson Rosana of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.
He said that 3ID Commander Major General Jon Aying welcomed the new members of the government troopers in a graduation ceremonies held in Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan town, February 13.
Part of the ceremonies was the enlistment and entrustment of firearms of candidate soldiers Class 410 and 411-2016.
He said that Gen. Aying had emphasized to the new soldiers the true meaning of military professionalism.
The General likewise stressed that as a soldier, one must have faith in God, spotless morality, harmonious relationship with comrades and the people in the community in order that the required task will become easy, he said.
The 3ID Commander, he said, reminded them to use the firearms to win the battle of promoting peace and order in the countryside.
Rosana disclosed that the soldiers completed the six-month rigid Candidate Soldier Course and Jungle Warfare Mountain Operation Course at the Division Training School at the 3ID headquarters.
“The training that kicked off last August 1, 2016 aimed to provide the candidate soldiers with the basic knowledge and skills on soldiery, develop their character worthy to become members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and prepare them to perform their duties as riflemen of the infantry squads,” he said.
Rosana said that the new breed of soldiers will be among those who will bring peace and development in the countryside, particularly in Western and Central Visayas as well as Negros Island Region.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/991487556830/3id-has-200-new-soldiers