Police director: No ISIS presence in Central Visayas

From the Sun Star-Cebu (Apr 7): Police director: No ISIS presence in Central Visayas
 

Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Visayas Director Noli Taliño answers questions from the media. (Screenshot from Kevin Lagunda's video)

 

THE Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Visayas director said they have not monitored the presence of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) members in Cebu and other provinces in the region.

 

PRO-Central Visayas Director Noli Taliño said police directors were instructed to continue monitoring for any suspicious individual, especially with the ongoing Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) meeting in Cebu.

 

Taliño added that all intelligence units form different law enforcement agencies are also monitoring the areas.

 

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II announced to the media Thursday, April 6, the arrest of two suspected members of ISIS.

 

The couple, Kuwaiti national Husayn Al-Dhafiri and his Syrian wife Rafah Sina, were arrested last March 25 by the Bureau of Immigration-Fugitive Search Unit, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine National Police in Taguig City.

 

Aguirre said they were informed by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation about Al-Dhafiri's links with the ISIS.

 

 Sometime in January 2017, Al-Dharifi stayed in Cebu for three days and in Davao City for four days.

 

Taliño said they will help in the investigation, to check the suspected terrorist's activities in Cebu.

 http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2017/04/07/police-director-no-isis-presence-central-visayas-535422

Village chief, 13 rebels sued for Davao del Sur massacre

From the Sun Star-Davao (Apr 5): Village chief, 13 rebels sued for Davao del Sur massacre

A BARANGAY chair and 13 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) are facing charges before the Davao del Sur Provincial Prosecution Office after the former were found liable for the attack in Barangay Sibayan, Bansalan town on March 8, which killed four policemen and two civilians.

Slain victims were identified as Police Officer 1 (PO1) Rholly Benelayo, PO1 Joey Narvasa and PO1 Saro Mangotara, of the Bansalan Municipal Police Station, PO3 Jaden Mei Rabor, of the Scene of the Crime Operatives (Soco) based in the same town, Marlon Lumantas and Orlan Albopera.

 READ: 4 cops killed in rebel ambush in Davao del Sur

Charged with four counts murder, robbery and destruction of government property, and frustrated murder docketed under XI-04-INQ-17C-00087 are Sibayan barangay chieftain Eddie Dicdican and NPA members Brendel Terado, alias Gab, Gelbert Amado, Chargelyn Casquejo, one Soysoy, Kiram, Bordz, Kevin, Laklak and four unidentified rebels.

 Police Regional Office-Davao spokesperson Chief Inspector Andrea dela Cerna said the barangay chieftain was held liable of the charges filed against him, after the witnesses claimed he was with the communist rebels when the attack happened.

 Soysoy, Laklak and two unidentified rebels were also charged with double murder and frustrated murder docketed under No. XI-04-INV-17C-00085.

The charges were filed by the members of the Special Investigation Task Group Sibayan at the office of prosecutor Katrina Kris Givero on Friday, March 31.

 Police initial investigation showed that around 6:30 a.m. on March 8, the Soco-Davao del Sur received a request to investigate a shooting incident in Sibayan. Rabor and PO3 Allen Arnado, who was injured on the incident, along with the three Bansalan police officers went to the crime scene on board a patrol car but rebels ambushed them along the highway before they could reach to the crime scene.

 Four of the five responding officers were killed on the spot. Only Arnado survived. The latter said there were about 40 armed men who attacked them.

 http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/04/05/village-chief-13-rebels-sued-davao-del-sur-massacre-535161

Davao City mayor offers jobs to NPA rebels

From the Sun Star-Davao (Apr 6): Davao City mayor offers jobs to NPA rebels
DAVAO City Mayor Sara "Inday" Duterte-Carpio reiterated her stand to defer the local peace talks and give job offers to the New People's Army operating in the city after the interim joint ceasefire agreement was signed by the the Philippines and the National Democratic Front on Wednesday evening in the Netherlands.

Duterte-Carpio, in a statement sent to SunStar Davao Thursday, said: "We are aligned with the national government's peace agenda. They are discussing bilateral ceasefire agreements and we also stand to benefit from that should it come to fruition," Duterte-Carpio said.

She said that while the results of the talks are not still in effect, she will continue to encourage cooperation with the New People's Army (NPA) operating within the city.

"As an alternative, I offered jobs to the NPAs operating in Davao, I encouraged them to work with us for Davao. The details I can discuss with them should they accept the offer," she said.

The city mayor last Wednesday issued a statement that she will wait for the outcome of the talks. She said that the communist groups know where they can find her, should they accept the offer.

 

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/04/06/davao-city-mayor-offers-jobs-npa-rebels-535290

Kadamay a communist front—Trillanes

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 7): Kadamay a communist front—Trillanes


 Senator Antonio Trillanes

An organized group of land grabbers that was granted free government housing intended for the police and the military is a front organization of communists, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV said on Thursday.

Trillanes was referring to the well-organized Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap or Kadamay, whose members were given government housing projects in Pandi town and San Jose Del Monte City in Bulacan province by President Duterte last Tuesday.

The senator said Mr. Duterte was actually being surrounded by members of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines whom he said were “dictating policies” in the government. He said the President was aware of it.

“The President is trying to balance things out because the armed forces would get mad,” Trillanes said at a news conference in the Senate.

The senator provided the Inquirer a list of 11 senior members of the CPP/New People’s Army/National Democratic Front who were part of the Duterte administration, including Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, who happens to be chair of the government peace panel in peace talks with the NDF.

Trillanes said he got this list from military sources.

As per the list he provided, Medialdea was identified as a CPP full member while Bello, an “active national democrat.”

On the free government housings for Kadamay, Trillanes warned that the community may be used as a “sanctuary” or “safe haven” of communist rebels as he noted that Bulacan was just near Metro Manila.

Trillanes said he understood the need for the government to help the poor but the grant of free housing to this group might also set a bad precedent.

Meanwhile, the President told reporters in Palawan that while he has decided to give Kadamay members the government housing units they have occupied in Bulacan, they should not do the same thing again.

“They would not be able to do it again because the next time that I will build the houses for the police and the [soldiers], I will have five M60s and a bazooka guarding it,” he said.

He said he was just being patient with the Kadamay members because they were poor.

Addressing soldiers at the Western Command in Palawan, Mr. Duterte also sought their understanding for his decision to give the government housing units to the poor members of Kadamay to avoid bloodshed.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/887277/kadamay-a-communist-front-trillanes

GRP, NDF agree to set in motion mechanisms that will lead to ceasefire

From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 7): GRP, NDF agree to set in motion mechanisms that will lead to ceasefire

A highly contentious Fourth Round of the Formal Talks between the Philippine Government (GRP) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) came to an end in Noordwijk, The Netherlands, April 6, with both parties agreeing to set into motion mechanisms that will lead to a joint ceasefire agreement, and take a more aggressive stance in forging a Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-Economic Reforms (Caser), which is the backbone of negotiations that could end more than 48 years of armed conflict.

(credit: Rocky Nazareno | Manila Bulletin)

 

In a joint statement issued at the closing ceremony at the Radisson Blu Palace Hotel, both parties agreed that a “significant step forward” was achieved when they signed an Agreement on an Interim Joint Ceasefire (AIJC) on April 5 that could eventually lead to a total end of hostilities.

“This is another step closer to our dreams. The work has just begun,” said Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza.

The two parties explained that they have directed their respective ceasefire committees “to discuss, formulate and finalize the guidelines and ground rules for the implementation of the AIJC.”

These guidelines will prove to be the “annexes” in the main AIJC and these will provide for the rules governing “the presence of armed units and elements of both parties in local communities, the creation of buffer zones, the prohibition of hostile and provocative acts, and ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanisms.”

The GRP and NDF agreed that the AIJC will take effect only “upon the approval and signing of these ground rules.”

The AIJC will also be effective until a permanent ceasefire agreement is forged as part of the Comprehensive Agreement on End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces.

And to comply with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s conditions for the forging of a ceasefire, the issues relating to revolutionary tax and a single government authority “shall be discussed and resolved as part of the Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms, within the framework of the proposed Federal Republic of the Philippines.”

The fruits of the fourth round of talks are expected to ripen into more concrete mechanisms when the next episode of the negotiations is held, also in The Netherlands, from May 27 to June 1.

The NDF also agreed to “effect the immediate, safe and expeditious release of Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police elements held captive by the New People’s Army in Eastern Mindanao.”

The two parties announced that the captives held in Soccsksargen will be released before Easter, April 16, and those held in Bukidnon and Caraga after that.

http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/07/grp-ndf-agree-to-set-in-motion-mechanisms-that-will-lead-to-ceasefire/

Army seizes NPA camp, high-powered firearms in Mati City

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 7): Army seizes NPA camp, high-powered firearms in Mati City


An Army officer inspects the guns seized from NPA rebels in Mati City. 10TH INFANTRY DIVISION PHOTO
The Army seized high-powered firearms and overran a rebel camp in Davao Oriental on Thursday, the military said.

Soldiers from the 28th Infantry Battalion (IB) clashed with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio DP Line, Barangay Calapagan, Mati City, at about 6 a.m., acting chief of the 10th Infantry Division public affairs office Captain Alexandre Cabales said.

READ: Soldiers find explosives, grenade after clash with NPAs in Albay

The soldiers recovered two M653 ‘baby armalite’ rifles, one M14 rifle, war material, and personal belongings after the encounter with the NPA’s Pulang Bagani Company 6 (PCB 6).
After the firefight, the soldiers discovered a rebel camp, a temporary harbor site that can accommodate about 40 communist rebels.

Thursday’s encounter was the third between the 28th IB and communists of PBC 6 since March 30, with no reported casualties on the government side. The rebels suffered an undetermined number of casualties.

Cabales said there were reports of evacuations from the villages of Tagbinonga, Buso, Don Martin Marundan and Don Salvador Lopez in Mati City due to the fighting.

READ: Palace welcomes deal on interim ceasefire between gov’t, NDF

The government and communists have signed an interim joint ceasefire agreement during the recently concluded fourth round of peace talks in The Netherlands, but the military leadership said it would continue its operations until the guidelines and ground rules for the declaration of a bilateral ceasefire were approved.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/887315/army-seizes-high-powered-firearms-npa-camp-in-mati-city

21 NPA fighters in Cordillera surrender – Nolcom

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 6): 21 NPA fighters in Cordillera surrender – Nolcom

Ten members of the New People’s Army in Ifugao province yielded to the Philippine Army on April 3, bringing to 21 the number of communist rebels who have surrendered since March, the Armed Forces’ Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) reported on Thursday (April 6).

Jacinto Hambon, who uses the alias Vendo, led nine other rebels in surrendering to the 54th Infantry Battalion of the 5th Infantry Division in Barangay (village) Namal in Asipulo town, a report released by Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, head of Nolcom public information office, stated.

The militia group operated under the Ifugao Nona del Rosario Command.

Six NPA members from Kalinga and five rebels from Abra have laid down their arms since March 31, Nolcom said.

Nolcom did not provide details as to the current strength of the NPA in the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and Central Luzon regions.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/886978/21-npa-fighters-in-cordillera-surrender-nolcom

‘Rebels' kill gov't asset

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 6): ‘Rebels' kill gov't asset

Amid proposals for local peace talks between the New People's Army and the government, suspected insurgents allegedly shot dead a supposed “intelligence” asset in Barangay Talalak, Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental yesterday morning.

The victim was identified as Junney Cabugnason, about 40 years old, married and a resident of the place, the police said.

An initial police report said that Barangay Talalak chairperson Edmat Bigay recounted that at around 6 a.m. yesterday, while he was at the vicinity of the Avocado Elementary School in the barangay, he heard two gun shots and afterwards saw two persons fire several more shots into the air.

Bigay told police investigators that the unidentified men uttered in the vernacular that they were NPA members and once they were already outside the vicinity of the school, they shouted again in the dialect that they will be returning for more targets.

Cabugnason sustained one gunshot wound to his throat and another to the back of his head that caused his instantaneous death, the police report said.

Cabugnason was the janitor of the school and when the incident happened, he was collecting the items/materials that were used during the school's graduation exercises held Tuesday.

The suspects fled, leaving behind a note although the police report did not mention its contents.

Recovered from the crime scene were one empty shell of .45 caliber pistol and the note, the police report added.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Roderick Garcia, commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Negros Oriental, said he still has to get additional information regarding the incident.

He said he learned the victim was killed for allegedly being a government asset/informant.

He lamented that, if it was the NPA that was responsible for the killing, it is “a pity” that civilians are being targeted.

Garcia had previously said that the NPA problem is now mostly concentrated in northern Negros although just a few of the insurgents are mobile and regularly visit the southern part of the province.

Negros Oriental was earlier declared a “conflict-manageable and development-ready” province by government authorities, with efforts now geared towards providing livelihood and development to formerly insurgency-affected areas, to uplift the lives of residents.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/April/06/negor1.htm

Soldier wounded in clash with NPA in Samar

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 6): Soldier wounded in clash with NPA in Samar

Calbiga, Samar (Wikipedia maps)

 

CALIBIGA, Samar — An Army soldier was wounded during an encounter with communist rebels in the hinterland village of Hubasan, Caliba town, Samar, a military report said.

A bullet hit the right arm of Corporal Eric D. Basa and exited in his stomach about 10 a.m. on Tuesday (Apr. 4).

He was later brought to the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center in Tacloban City, Leyte, where he was in stable condition, said 1Lt. Cherry M. Junia, the public affairs officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion Division.

Junia said soldiers belonging to the Bravo Company of the 87th Infantry Battalion were conducting a reconnaissance patrol when they encountered a band of New People’s Army rebels in Hubasan Village.

A firefight ensued and Basa was hit.

Junia said the soldiers had blocked all possible exit points in a bid to capture the rebels.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/887044/soldier-wounded-in-clash-with-npa-in-samar

Sabah kidnap-free since December due to PH-Malaysia cooperation

From Rappler (Apr 6): Sabah kidnap-free since December due to PH-Malaysia cooperation

Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Eduardo Malaya also cites the heightened interest of Malaysian companies in investment opportunities in the Philippines   



PH ENVOY. Ambassador J Eduardo Malaya giving his remarks aboard the BRP Andres Bonifacio, March 31, 2017. Photo from KLPE

There have been no kidnapping incidents in Sabah and its waters since late December of last year, according to Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia J Eduardo Malaya.

This, he said, is due to the relentless security operations, enhanced intelligence-sharing, and coordinated patrols in the Sulu Sea between the Philippines and Malaysia.

The 5 remaining Malaysians who were in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf were safely recovered in March.

The fall of the Muktadil Gang last year was also a major blow to the Abu Sayyaf, as its members served as sea guides and navigators in the terror group's kidnapping operations in the high seas.

Malaya, who recently concluded his tour of duty in the Southeast Asian country, made the announcement on March 31, during a reception on the BRP Andres Bonifacio, the Philippine Navy frigate that called on Port Klang after participating in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition '17.

Malaysian Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Dato' Abdul Halim bin Hj Jalal welcomed BRP Andres Bonifacio skipper Captain Brendo Casaclang and his 88-member crew.

Addressing guests at the reception, Malaya said the Philippine ship's goodwill visit "highlights the deepening partnership between the Philippine and Malaysian governments and their respective armed forces, including in addressing issues of common concern such as extremism and transnational crimes."

At the same event, Malaya cited the heightened interest of Malaysian companies in investment opportunities in the Philippines due to its rapidly-growing economy. There has also been an increasing number of Filipino companies doing business in Malaysia, led by Petron Corporation, PLDT, and Pancake House.

Commodore Albert Mogol, head of the visiting mission and commander of the Philippine Navy's Fleet Marine Ready Force, described the visit as a manifestation of the Philippine Navy's "commitment to promote harmonious relations between and among countries."

The event featured performances by the Philippine Marine Corps band and Kuala Lumpur-based Filipino performers Gina Panizales and Jennifer Alferez.

The BRP Andres Bonifacio is the 3rd Hamilton-class cutter frigate to be commissioned by the Philippine Navy. It is named after Andrés Bonifacio, a Filipino revolutionary leader who is regarded as the "Father of the Philippine Revolution" and a preeminent national hero of the Philippines.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/166210-sabah-security-philippines-malaysia-cooperation

Southern Philippines could be the destination for some IS extremists: Experts

From Channel News Asia (Apr 6): Southern Philippines could be the destination for some IS extremists: Experts

KUALA LUMPUR: As the Islamic State (IS) loses ground in the Middle East, some of its fighters could relocate to the southern Philippines from where they could plan attacks around the region, security experts have warned.

Counter-terrorism expert Sidney Jones said in a recent paper on the IS threat published by the Lowy Institute for International policy that pro-Islamic State extremists may use bases there to plan hits in Mindanao and Manila, or train operatives to carry out attacks elsewhere in the region.

“It is unlikely that hundreds of foreign fighters will flee there as Islamic State is pushed back, but even a dozen could cause serious damage,” added Jones, who is also director of the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC).

Malaysian police share the view that the southern Philippines is unlikely to be the destination for significant numbers of IS operatives currently in the Middle East, but there is nonetheless some cause for concern.

“Those who are currently in Syria and Iraq are unlikely to go to the southern Philippines. But those who are planning to carry out jihad may go there,” Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, chief of counter-terrorism for Special Branch, the intelligence arm of the Royal Malaysian Police, told ChannelNewsAsia.

On Tuesday (Apr 4), Singapore’s Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam said that the potential “locus” of IS’ threat could move to the southern Philippines, which is becoming an area that is difficult to control despite the best efforts of the Filipino government.

SABAH A JUMPING OFF POINT?

According to a former militant, Ali Fauzi of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), the group behind the 2002 devastating Bali bombings, some Indonesian IS returnees will relocate to the southern Philippines.

“Some Indonesian IS members whose passports were not confiscated by IS in Syria and Iraq, will move there,” Ali told Channel NewsAsia.

“They will transit first to Malaysia before going to the southern Philippines to avoid detection,” said Ali, the younger brother of two Bali bombers who were executed for their role in the attack.

According to Ali, the Indonesians could use Sabah as a jumping off point into the southern Philippines given its porous borders and proximity to the Philippines.

“This is the route I used to use myself when I travelled to southern Philippines to purchase weapons from Indonesia. I used Sabah as the jumping off point via the towns of Tawau, Semporna, Sandakan,” Ali added.

IPAC’s Jones described Sabah as a “vital gateway (for) Islamic State militants.”

Since late 2014, extremists from Indonesia and Malaysia and a few foreigners from further afield have been working with pro-IS groups based in Mindanao and Basilan, according to Jones.

Several of those groups formed an alliance in early 2016 with the blessing of IS central command and swore loyalty to a Basilan-based leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Isnilon Hapilon, as amir (leader). They had reportedly planned to announce the establishment of a Southeast Asian province (wilayat) of Islamic State, based on the island of Basilan, off the southwestern tip of Mindanao, according to Jones.

“It never happened, for reasons that are unclear, but Southeast Asian IS leaders in Syria have been urging their followers at home to join the jihad in the Philippines, and local leaders have been recruiting as well,” said Jones.

“The number of foreigners working with the alliance remains small (officials say less than ten), but they include highly educated men with good funding networks, including several from peninsular Malaysia,” she added, pointing out that there is a low threat of IS setting up a caliphate in the southern Philippines.

A former Universiti Malaya lecturer Mahmud Ahmad who underwent training with Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan, is currently believed to be an important fund-raiser for the group and recruiter for Malaysian IS members in southern Philippines, according to Malaysian police

MILITARY OPERATIONS "NOT EFFECTIVE"

Since President Rodrigo Duterte came to power, the security situation has worsened with a spike in kidnappings in the Sulu archipelago.

There were 18 hostages when he assumed office in June last year. Now there are 31, of which 25 are foreigners, reported the local press. An elderly German hostage was beheaded last February.

Duterte threatened to impose martial law on Mindanao island in March as part of the efforts to fight militants.

He also stepped up military operations against suspected IS camps in 2016-17, killing many fighters and wounding Abu Sayyaf's leader Hapilon earlier this year, said Jones.

However, Jones believes that military operations are not the solution to the highly complex problem of militants in the southern Philippines, who are guided by a combination of terrorism and warlordism.

“Military operations aren't effective because they're a simple solution to a very complex problem. In Mindanao, extremist affiliations are intertwined with clan loyalties and old-style warlordism,” she told Channel NewsAsia.

“This means that often local government officials belong to the same extended families as extremists. Military operations may produce a high kill rate but they also are likely to breed determination for revenge. An important part of the solution, but it's a long-term one, is improving local governance,” she said.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/southern-philippines-could-be-the-destination-for-some-is/3654972.html

Charged with supporting Abu Sayyaf

From the Daily Express (Apr 6): Charged with supporting Abu Sayyaf

A Filipino was charged in the Magistrate's Court on Wednesday with supporting the Abu Sayyaf terror group.

Salihin was brought before Magistrate Stephanie Sherron Abbie to face the charge against him.

No plea was taken from Salihin after the charge was read to him.

Salihin is accused of knowingly canvassing support for the militant group via Facebook under the name of Abu Tahlaba A-Basilanie between March 1 and 6 this year.

He allegedly committed the offence near the Putatan flyover area, near here.

The offence under Section 130J(1)(a) of the Penal Code provides for imprisonment for life or jail of up to 30 years, or with a fine and liability of forfeiture of any property used or intended to be used in connection with the commission of the offence.

Abbie set Apr 27 this year for mention and ordered Salihin remanded further pending the date.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Dinesh Raja appeared for the prosecution while Salihin was not represented.

Meanwhile, in another court, Salihin was jailed eight months and ordered given a stroke of the cane for entering the State illegally.

Sessions Court Judge Azreena Aziz ordered Salihin to serve the sentence from the date of his arrest on March 7 this year and referred to the Immigration Department after completing the jail sentence.

 http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=116931

Blast rocks DENR sub-station, police outpost in Sarangani town

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): Blast rocks DENR sub-station, police outpost in Sarangani town

An explosion rocked a sub-station of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and a police outpost in Kiamba town in Sarangani Province shortly before midnight Wednesday but no casualties were reported.

Chief Insp. Rey Salgado, chief of the Kiamba municipal police station, said Thursday the blast occurred at around 11:54 p.m. infront of the DENR sub-station or "detachment" in Sitio Bialong of Barangay Poblacion.

He said the sub-station is located beside the Kiamba police station’s community police action center (CPAC) number 02.

Post-blast investigators have yet to determine whether the explosion was caused by a grenade or an improvised explosive device, he said

The police official said the CPAC’s duty officer, Police Officer 1 Jerry Quizon, initially reported a loud explosion near their post.

He said they immediately responded to the scene to verify the situation and the security status of personnel, which included civilian volunteers, manning the outpost.

Salgado said they cordoned the scene after finding explosive fragments and other related materials.

As standard procedure, he said they referred the matter to the Explosives Ordnance Disposal and K-9 unit of the Sarangani Provincial Police Office for post-blast investigation.

Salgado said they could not yet establish whether the main target of the attack was their outpost or the DENR sub-station.

“The scene of the explosion was closer to the DENR sub-station,” he said.

But the New People’s Army’s (NPA) Musa Sub-regional Operations Command has claimed responsibility over the incident in a text message sent to radio station Brigada News FM here.

The group said the target of the attack was the police outpost.

Kiamba Mayor Raul Martinez condemned the incident, which he described as an “NPA harassment.”

Since last year, the rebels had burned two passenger units of Yellow Bus Line Inc. (YBL) and a passenger van in the town’s outskirt villages.

The first incident happened on Nov. 24 in Barangay Katubao and the second in Purok Yakal, Sitio Linek of Barangay Nalus on Jan. 5.

The rebels burned another passenger van in Purok Mirasol of Barangay Lebe on Jan. 30.

Police had filed arson charges against 13 alleged members of the NPA’s Front 73 in connection with the three incidents.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=978082

President Duterte gets briefing on West Philippine Sea security in Puerto Princesa

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): President Duterte gets briefing on West Philippine Sea security in Puerto Princesa

President Rodrigo Duterte arrived in this city early Thursday afternoon to visit troops of of the different operational controller units of the Western Command (WESCOM) and to talk to them.

The President met in a closed door meeting with Lt. Gen. Raul del Rosario and other officers of WESCOM, where he was given updates regarding security in the West Philippines Sea, the fight against illegal drugs, and even criminality, corruption, and other law enforcement issues and problems here and the whole Palawan.

After the briefing, the President will plant his tree inside the WESCOM Compound and will visit its new headquarters building.

He will then proceed to talk to the officers, and men and women of the Command, where he is expected to update them on government plans and concerns for soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez and Gen. Del Rosario led the simple welcome honors for President Duterte when he arrived before 1:00 pm.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=978160

AFP still getting details on Duterte's planned visit to Pagasa Island

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): AFP still getting details on Duterte's planned visit to Pagasa Island

As President Rodrigo Duterte announced his intentions to visit Pagasa Island, the largest of the Philippine-held feature in the Kalayaan Island Group, this coming June 12 the military on Thursday said it is still getting details on the purported visit.

"This is a matter I need to consult with our seniors," AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla when asked whether it is advisable for the Chief Executive to visit the island.

Aside from his visit which will fall on the country's 119th Independence Day anniversary, Duterte also ordered the military to occupy and secure all Philippine-held features in the Kalayaan Island Group and set up facilities that will ease the difficulties being experienced by troops manning these islands.

"I was not able to hear what his (President Duterte's) announcement was this afternoon but he has made previous declaration that he supports whatever we are doing in our area and he is after the welfare of our soldiers in our occupied islets, so he is also on the same plane as our military and defense personnel to provide for the better living conditions of our personnel," Padilla said.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the facilities Duterte wanted to set-up for the soldiers included barracks for the men, water desalination plants, and sewage disposal systems, power generators(conventional and renewable), light houses, and shelters for fishermen.

The AFP spokesperson said Duterte was entitled to visit Pagasa Island, both as a Filipino citizen and his status as Commander-in-Chief.

But the President's visit to Pagasa Island is also dependent on what kind of threats the visit might faced.

"There's always the presence of a threat, that’s why we said either it is a low level threat, a high level threat will all depend (on that)," Padilla stressed.

Out of the seven island and three reefs being controlled by the Philippines, Pagasa is the largest measuring 37.2 hectares.

Other Philippine possessions in the Spratlys include Likas Island which measures 18.6 hectares; Parolo Island, 12.7 hectares; Lawak Island 7.93 hectares; Kota Island, 6. 45 hectares; Patag Island, 0.57; Panata Island, 0.44 hectares; Rizal, Balagtas and Ayungin Reefs.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978280

2 more FA-50PHs join PHL Air Force's fighter fleet

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): 2 more FA-50PHs join PHL Air Force's fighter fleet

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Thursday formally accepted two additional South Korean-made FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" jet fighters, bringing to eight the total number of Mach 1.5 capable aircraft in its fleet.

An acceptance ceremony took place at the Haribon Hangar of Clark Air Base in Angeles City, Pampanga, with PAF chief of air staff, Maj. Gen. Rozzano Briguez in attendance, said Air Force spokesperson Col. Antonio Francisco.

Joining the FA-50PH fleet are jet planes with Tail Number 007 and 008, which arrived last March 29.

The first two FA-50PH units were delivered on Nov. 28, 2015, the second batch on Dec. 8 last year, and the third batch last February 22.

The PAF's 12-plane order from the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is worth PHP18.9 billion.

The remaining four KAI-made FA-50PHs are expected to be delivered before the end of the year.

The FA-50PH has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one-and-a-half times the speed of sound and is capable of being fitted air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-9 "Sidewinder" air-to-air and heat-seeking missiles, aside from light automatic cannons.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978120

Military scotches NDF SOMO demand for release of 4 captives

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): Military scotches NDF SOMO demand for release of 4 captives

Reacting to calls made by the National Democratic Front (NDF) that it needs a 10-day suspension of military operations (SOMO) to facilitate the release of four military and police personnel, ranking Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officials said rebel demand is an exclusive purview of the Chief Executive.

"SOMO is a prerogative of the President. If I may add, recently the New People's Army (NPA) released two captives in Davao Oriental without asking for a SOMO," said Eastern Mindanao Command head Lt. Gen. Leonardo Guerrero.

The NDF, the political leadership of the NPA, is asking for a 10-day SOMO in parts of Bukidnon, Agusan Del Norte, Surigao Del Norte to facilitate the release of the military and police personnel they abducted last February.

Likewise, Guerrero said they will only conduct operations if there is a pressing need for them.

"We only conduct focused military operations if there is a need for us to address atrocities or armed violent attacks being perpetrated by the NPAs against our troops and civilians," he streesed.

Guerrero's views were shared by 4th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Benjamin Madrigal.

"The declaration of SOMO is a prerogative of the President. In the absence of such declaration, we continue in performing our mandate of protecting communities against terroristic attacks by the NPAs such as burning of equipment and extortion activities," he said.

"As it happened in Davao, they were able to release their hostages there without any SOMO/SOPO (suspension of police operations) They can simply leave them to local officials without any funfare," Madrigal pointed out.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978205

NDFP asks GRP panel to declare 10-day SOMO for release of 4 POWs

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): NDFP asks GRP panel to declare 10-day SOMO for release of 4 POWs

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) on Thursday urged the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) panel to declare a 10-day suspension of military operations (SOMO) in Mindanao to facilitate the release of four soldiers and a policeman taken by the New People's Army.

The NDFP said if the GRP adheres to the invitation of the communist rebels, they are willing to release the four remaining POWs in their custody.

This is one of the four conditions set by President Rodrigo Duterte before he allowed the GRP panel to continue the fourth round of talks in The Netherlands.

The three other conditions were the signing of a bilateral ceasefire agreement; a stop to the alleged extortion activities of rebels; and the non-recognition of any territorial claim made by the communists.

Captured by the New People’s Army were PFC Edwin Salan in Alegria, Surigao del Norte on January 29; Sgt. Solaiman Calucop captured in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat on February 2; PFC Samuel Garay, also captured in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat on February 2, all members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and PO2 Jerome Natividad, captured in Talakag, Bukidnon on February 9, a member of the Philippine National Police.

In a press statement, the NDF said the suspension of law enforcement operations should cover the provinces of Bukidnon - Talakag (15 barrios); Lantapan (14 brgys.); Baungon (10 brgys); Malaybalay City (Tampi in Mt. Kitanglad, 10 brgys): Pangantucan (10 brgys); Kalilangan (5 brgys); Valencia City (near Mt. Kalatungan, 10 brgys).

Province of Surigao del Norte - Surigao City, Alegria, Bacuag, Gigaquit, Claver, Placer, Mainit. Province of Agusan del Norte – Kitcharao town and Parts of Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and South Cotabato.

The NDF said the release of the prisoners of war (POWs) was in line with its commitment on February 19, as regards the NPA's release of six uniformed personnel in their custody as a "positive gesture" for the fourth round of peace talks with the GRP.

On March 25, the NPA released two of the six, namely CAFGU Active Auxiliary personnel Rene Doller and Carl Mark Nucos in Mati City, Davao Oriental.

The NDF said the four other captives would have been released earlier but continuous military operations against the NPA in the provinces hampered their freedom and placed their lives and their captors in jeopardy.

"Yet, despite the difficult circumstances, the NDFP and the respective NPA commands continue to work closely with the members of the Third Party Facilitators and Independent Humanitarian Mission (TPFIHM) for the release of the remaining four POWs," the NDFP stated.

The NDF said a positive response from the GRP on the matter creates the "necessary favorable condition for the safe, expeditious and orderly release of the POWs."

"The positive response of the GRP will also further the positive thrust of the ongoing round of negotiations," it added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978202

Operations vs rebels continue despite joint interim ceasefire

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): Operations vs rebels continue despite joint interim ceasefire

While grateful for the signing of the interim joint ceasefire between the Government Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front (NDF), which can bring to halt a 48-year insurgency, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said there will be no suspension of military operations (SOMO) until a formal ceasefire declaration is made.
"We are pleased to learn that the document which shall pave the way to the ceasefire has been signed. While there is no ceasefire declaration yet, there will (also) be no corresponding suspension of military operations for the moment," said AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo on Thursday.

And while recognizing the primacy of the peace process, he said the military will continue with its focused, deliberate, and surgical combat, intelligence and civil-military operations until the ceasefire is formalized.

"We will pursue our mandate as protector of the people and the State by defeating any armed groups of any affiliation to uphold the law, maintain peace in the communities, and protect the lives of our people," Arevalo pointed out.

Meanwhile, Government chief peace negotiator and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said both parties moved fast to conclude provisions on a draft Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER) meant to address the root causes of the armed conflict.

The talks primarily scheduled on April 2 was delayed for the next day after President Rodrigo Duterte alerted GRP panel and lay down four conditions.

The four conditions the Chief Executive set before the start of the 4th round of peace talks in The Netherlands were immediate release of captured police and military personnel, bilateral ceasefire agreement, the signing of a bilateral ceasefire agreement; a stop to the alleged extortion activities of rebels; and the non-recognition of any territorial claim made by the communists.

" We are hopeful that the negotiators from both sides will soon be able to finalize and approve the guidelines and ground rules that will ultimately lead to the declaration of ceasefire," Arevalo said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978172

Malacañang welcomes GRP-NDF interim joint ceasefire deal

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): Malacañang welcomes GRP-NDF interim joint ceasefire deal

Malacañang on Thursday welcomed the interim joint ceasefire agreement between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) saying it hopes that the deal would avert further bloodshed on the ground.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the agreement forged in Noordwijk, Netherlands on Wednesday evening will immediately take effect as soon as the guidelines and ground rules are approved.

“The interim joint ceasefire agreement shall remain in effect until a permanent ceasefire is forged between the two panels. We hope this prevents further hostilities and unnecessary loss of lives on the ground,” Abella said.

Hostilities between government forces and communist rebels flared up in February after both sides terminated their respective unilateral ceasefires.

On February 3, President Rodrigo Duterte called on government forces to prepare for an all-out offensive against the New People’s Army (NPA).

He however later opened the door for the resumption of peace talks based on a set of conditions that should be first met by the rebels -- that the communists should stop collecting revolutionary taxes, should not claim any territory, and release all its captives.

The President also maintained that he would only agree to a bilateral ceasefire agreement.

On Wednesday, Duterte announced that the NDF panel have promised the release of four remaining government forces in NPA custody.

Abella said the interim joint agreement has shown the political maturity of Filipinos.

“The peace process, while seemingly slow, highlights the maturing social and political sense of the Filipino. Together let us build communities that are just and peaceful. This is what being an independent sovereign nation is all about,” Abella said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978238

Duterte orders AFP to occupy all PHL islands in West Philippine Sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6): Duterte orders AFP to occupy all PHL islands in West Philippine Sea

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday said he has ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to occupy all islands of the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea to maintain and strengthen the country's jurisdiction over uninhabited Philippine islands.

“We tried to be friends with everybody but we have to maintain our jurisdiction now, at least the areas under our control. And I have ordered the Armed Forces to occupy all the so many islands. I think nine or 10. Lagyan ng structures and the Philippine flag,” the President said in a press briefing after talking to the soldiers at the Western Command (WESCOM) in Camp General Artemio Ricarte in Puerto Princesa City.

“Pati ‘yung ano, basta ‘yung bakante na ‘yung atin na, tirahan na natin, ibig sabihin. Mukhang agawan kasi ito ng isla eh. And what’s ours now, at least kunin na natin and make a strong point natin there that it is ours. We have to fortify. I must build bunker there or houses, and make provisions for habitation,” Duterte said.

The President likewise said that he plans on visiting Pag-asa Island on Independence Day to raise the Philippine flag there.

“And sa coming Independence Day natin, I might, I may go to Pag-asa island to raise the flag there,” he said.

He added that the airport project in Pag-asa will push through.

“The money is there. I don’t know how the, the Army or the engineering battalion would do it but that development there, has my full support. Gagastos ako diyan sa fortification diyan,” Duterte said.

Meanwhile, Duterte said that he will also rename Benham Rise to properly identify the resource-rich area situated on the Pacific side of the country as Philippine jurisdiction.

“I will officially claim it as ours and rename it. Hindi Benham Rise. I’ll call it the Philippine Ridge,” Duterte said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=978268

DWDD: AFP, patuloy ang isinasagawang imbestigasyon sa pagkamatay ni Hapilon

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 4): AFP, patuloy ang isinasagawang imbestigasyon sa pagkamatay ni Hapilon



Hindi pa makumpirma ni AFP chief of staff General Eduardo Ańo na patay na nga si Basilan based Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon na napabalitang nasugatan sa enkwentro nuong buwan ng Pebrero sa Maguindanao.

Batay kasi sa report ng militar na matindi ang tinamong sugat ni Hapilon sa nasabing enkwentro.

Una rito inihayag ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na patay na si Hapilon batay sa impormasyon na nakuha ng pangulo.

Ayon kay Ańo, wala pang kumpirmasyon mula sa kanilang field units na patay na ang nasabing ASG leader at patuloy nila itong bina validate.

Aminado si chief of staff na may kumakalalat na report na patay na nga si Hapilon.

“There are raw reports but we still have no confirmation that Hapilon is really dead. Operations against his group will continue in Lanao provinces and Basilan,” pahayag ni Ańo.

Inihayag ni Ańo na sa kanilang latest information na apat na miyembro ng Abu Sayyaf ang nababantay kay Hapilon kung saan palipat lipat ang mga ito ng lugar sa kabundukan ng Butig.

Sa kabilang dako itinanggi naman ni AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla ang nasabing ulat.

“We have no info as of this date this is why the President said “supposes.” We will continue ongoing efforts to ascertain this,” mensahe na ipinadala ni Padilla.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/04/afp-patuloy-ang-isinasagawang-imbestigasyon-sa-pagkamatay-ni-hapilon/

DWDD: SERVING THE FILIPINO | 120th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Army (PA)

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 5): SERVING THE FILIPINO | 120th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Army (PA)



Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City (DWDD) – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the 120th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army (PA) held at the PA Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
“Your primordial duty to serve the country…gives assurance to our people to live in peace and stability,” said the President as he recognized the acts of courage and bravery of the country’s armed forces at the beginning of his keynote speech.



He guaranteed the Philippine Army that the administration would provide them with the necessary training equipment and benefits prior to their actual deployment. As part of government’s modernization program for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the military will be given telecommunications apparatus, firepower, and infantry fighting vehicles, particularly for the army.
“These are among the priority initiatives we immediately undertook when I assumed the Presidency in July last year,” President Duterte said, adding that government has allocated PhP 6.5 billion for PA projects under the revised AFP Modernization Plan.



Additionally, the Commander-in-Chief mentioned that on September 2016, he signed an Executive Order to increase the combat pays of all the AFP members. He also tapped the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the proposed compensation adjustment in increasing the base and hazard pays of all military personnel.

The President also gave directives to the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) to review the housing loan program that will complement the soldiers’ ability to pay.



With the administration’s drive to fight the illegal drug trade, President Duterte expressed his confidence to the army’s continuous assistance. “This is a serious call, not only for you but to all Filipinos, including your loved ones… Without you, our government will not be able to eradicate the ills of society that have been crippling our development for a long time,” he ended.

Also present were Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, AFP Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año, and PA Commanding General (CG) Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda. RTVM / MCAG



[Video: 120th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Army (PA) 4/4/2017  
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G7YbMHU1TE]



[Video: 120th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Army (PA) (Speech) 4/4/2017  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pelZNo_Lfw]

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/05/serving-the-filipino-120th-founding-anniversary-of-the-philippine-army-pa/

DWDD: Batanes Governor lauds Maritime Patrols

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 5): Batanes Governor lauds Maritime Patrols



CAMP AGUINLDO, Quezon City – The frequent maritime patrols by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the Batanes islands chain has already reaped success as fishermen recount respite in poaching, Colonel Edgard Arevalo, AFP Public Affairs Chief disclosed Wednesday, April 5.

“Governor Marilou Cayco of The Province of Batanes extended the gratitude of the fisherfolks of Batanes for the continuous maritime patrol being facilitated by the Philippine Air Force, Navy, and Marines in the northernmost islands and sea territory of the province,” Colonel Arevalo said.

Governor Cayco wrote a letter to Lieutenant General Romeo Tanalgo, Commander of Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM). She and her constituents expressed their gratefulness to the AFP for its prompt response to the needs of the province.

Governor Cayco disclosed that she was being flooded with positive feedbacks especially from the fishermen who are mostly benefiting from the maritime patrolling.

“The incessant problem of poaching in our waters took a respite after the patrol and according to our fisherfolks, they can now fish without being in persistent fear of encountering boats with foreign markings,” Governor Cayco wrote.

“Our scarce resource and means in protecting our own territory was obliterated by the AFP’s genuine concern to our people by keeping our people safe and free from threats of foreign poachers,” Governor Cayco continued.

In March 19, the Philippine Navy’s BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF16) sailed to Mavulis Island, Itbayat, Batanes to conduct a site survey at the Northernmost Island of the country. The FF16 conducted naval cruise patrols to Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, Dalupiri, Calayan and Casambalangan, Sta. Ana Cagayan. Since then, frequent maritime patrolling were facilitated by the military.

The AFP through NOLCOM started its maritime awareness activities in Mavulis Island in April 2016. This was done to support transforming the islets of Batanes into resting place and shelter area for Filipino fishermen.

“The positive developments in the islets of Batanes are borne not only of our frequent maritime patrols in the area but also of the active cooperation and coordination of the people of Batanes and other stakeholders. Together we shall continue to reap further successes as we in the AFP perform its mandate of protecting our people and our territory,” General Eduardo Año, AFP Chief of Staff said.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/05/batanes-governor-lauds-maritime-patrols/

DWDD: Philippine Navy arrives from LIMA 2017

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 6): Philippine Navy arrives from LIMA 2017

The Philippine Navy rendered an Arrival Ceremony at 9 a.m. today at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila for the returning BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF17) in connection with its recently concluded participation in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2017) last March 21-26, 2017 in Langkawi Island, Malaysia and subsequent port visits to Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) bases in Lumut and in Port Klang, Malaysia.

The Flag Officer in Command of the Philippines Navy (FOIC, PN), Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S Mercado AFP, presided over the Arrival Ceremony for the one hundred ninety-nine (199) members of the PN contingent. LIMA is one of the most influential exhibitions in Asia as a dedicated maritime and aerospace exhibition for defense, civil and commercial aviation, shipbuilding and ship repair. Highlights of this exhibition were the Chief of Navy Roundtable Talks (CNRT) and the LIMA Sea Exercise (LSX).

The successful goodwill visits to Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) bases in Lumut and Klang reinforced the deepening friendship between the PN and the RMN. RMN offered a Facility Tour in Lumut Naval base to student-officers of Naval Officer’s Basic Course (NOBC) Class 27. Further, PN and RMN conducted a goodwill football game that manifested the kind of camaraderie among our personnel.

In Port Klang, the Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia HE J. Eduardo Malaya hosted a diplomatic reception on board FF17 with Malaysian Armed Forces Chief Staff Lt. Gen. Dato’ Abdul Halim bin Hadji Jalal as the Guest of Honor (GOH) and attended by more or less ninety (90) dignitaries from the diplomatic community as well as members of the Filipino community in Kuala Lumpur.

This mission to Malaysia aimed to showcase our improving naval capabilities and to simulate a sense of pride among Filipinos in Malaysia for our Armed Forces and the Filipino nation. It was also a way of soliciting appreciation and support for the PN’s modernization programs.

“To the Philippine Navy delegation, we are truly proud and deeply honored of your presence here in Malaysia. You made us proud as Filipinos”. said Phil Ambassador Malaya.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/04/06/philippine-navy-arrives-from-lima-2017/

MNLF-IIO: MNLF Flag

Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office (Apr 6): MNLF Flag



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/a.1014067655330137.1073741829.404979842905591/1437407199662845/?type=3&theater

 https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/

MNLF-IIO: Photos - MNLF forces in Sulu

Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office (Apr 4): Photos: MNLF forces in Sulu



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1435474736522758/1435455869857978/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1435474736522758/1435460156524216/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1435474736522758/1435465213190377/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/pcb.1435474736522758/1435468016523430/?type=3&theater

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

MNLF-IIO: Supporting Founding Chairman Nur P. Misuari BMR President.

Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office (Apr 6): Photo: Supporting Founding Chairman Nur P. Misuari BMR President.



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/a.1014067655330137.1073741829.404979842905591/1436730043063894/?type=3&theater

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

MILF: CSO’s launches charity project for Peace

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Apr 6): CSO’s launches charity project for Peace



Civil society organizations (CSOs) launched “PISO FOR BANGSAMORO”, a charity project for peace in Bangsamoro on April 04, 2017 at Al Nor Complex.

The CSO’s that participated in the project launch are committed peace partners and stakeholders who have been innovative and resourceful in their ways and means to demonstrate unrelenting support to the on-going peace efforts in Mindanao.

The launch is a showcase of commitment in support to the current peace process between the national government and the Moro Fronts. It officially started with a symbolic banging of a gong and culminated in a ceremonial dropping of coins by those in attendance, including distinguished guests and visitors as well as individuals from the public sector, CSOs and representative of the general management of the mall.

The project is in line with the complementary peace advocacy programs of the proponent organizations, the League of Bangsamoro Organizations (LBO) through its special organ, the Bangsamoro Social Enterprise and Environmental Development (BM-SEED) Inc. and the Coalition for Moro Youth Movement, Inc. (CMYM).

Both are forerunners of the advocacy for the establishment of Bangsamoro consistent with the current peace process between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“Piso” (for Bangsamoro) is chosen as the endorsement label of the project with the intent to cause no burden to donors, benefactors or even ordinary supporters, and to accord inclusive ownership, therefore in such a fashion that everyone can confidently identify with the project and own it.

Among others, the project constitutes placing of labeled donation boxes in sizes at conspicuous areas inside malls, department stores and other commercial establishments, public and private offices, masajids (mosques) and other places of worship, as well as public transport terminals.

The Cotabato City-based BM-SEED, Inc, is a special organ of the LBO and a non-government organization newly established and duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission that aims for an inclusive advocacy, rehabilitative and development works toward peace and harmony as well as economic growth and social development of the Bangsamoro.

LBO, on the other hand, is a non-profit union of Bangsamoro organizations established with more than sixty (60) organization-members based in Cotabato City as well as in the neighboring the provinces of North Cotabato, Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat.

It envisions a “One Society of Bangsamoro Organizations by 2024” with the mission of uniting all Bangsamoro organizations into a single organized body upholding the common cause and interest towards an enlightened, just, peaceful and progressive Bangsamoro.

Apart from launching the “Piso for Bangsamoro”, they also manifested that the League of the Bangsamoro Organizations (LBO) and the Coalition of Moro Youth Movements (CMYM), Inc., a duly registered non-profit organization, have come to an agreement to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) in order to strengthen the partnership between the parties with the goal of continuing the projects, programs and activities they have been conducting in support to the call for the immediate passage of a CAB-based BBL and for the recognition of other binding agreements between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).

It is also part of the commitment of the groups to exert greater efforts in pursuing their projects, programs and activities, as maybe agreed upon by them.

http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/1139-cso-s-launches-charity-project-for-peace

NDF: Bellicose statements from AFP poisoning the atmosphere

Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Apr 4): Bellicose statements from AFP poisoning the atmosphere 

NDFP Media Office | Press statement
4 April 2017

Statements from AFP chief, Gen. Eduardo Año, virulently attacking the NPA is poisoning the atmosphere of the ongoing peace talks in The Netherlands. While the GRP and NDFP panels are trying to negotiate peace, the militarists in the GRP are only talking about war.

Año’s claim that the NPA is anti-development is turning the truth upside down. The NPA has been engaged in socio-economic programs in areas it controls precisely because of the utter neglect and indifference of successive governments in attending to the people’s basic needs.


The NPA carries out programs in health, literacy and improving the living standards of the people through production and marketing cooperatives. This is where much of the proceeds from revolutionary taxation are spent, unlike the GRP where tax money is eaten up by corruption.

The AFP itself is an institution where corruption is rampant. Generals have it so good and some retire as millionaires. Meanwhile, their troops on the ground sometimes go hungry and steal from the peasants their chickens and eggs.

In the countryside, the peasant masses and indigenous people consider the NPA as the army of the poor, while the AFP is the army of the landlords, landgrabbers and other exploiters. The peasants call AFP troops “Hapon,” likening them to the brutal Japanese soldiers during the time of the Japanese occupation.

The NPA has just celebrated its 48th anniversary full of confidence in the bright future of the revolution. The AFP from the time of the fascist Marcos dictatorship to the big-landlord government of Benigno Aquino III has failed to defeat the NPA. The reason for this is the NPA has the support of the people.

No amount of “fake news” and disinformation from the AFP can turn the truth upside down.

Reference:
Dan Borjal
email: dfborjal@gmail.com
twitter: https://twitter.com/dfborjal
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dborjal
viber: +31 643108419
whatsapp: Dan Borjal

https://www.ndfp.org/bellicose-statements-from-afp-poisoning-the-atmosphere/

NDF: The biggest failure is Padilla

Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Apr 4): The biggest failure is Padilla  



NDFP Media Office
Press statement
4 April 2017

Padilla predicts the failure of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations.

In fact, Padilla is the biggest failure in the history of the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations.

During his stint as head of the GRP negotiating panel, the talks did not progress even an inch.


He wanted to move it backward in negating what had already been achieved by trying to tear apart all the important agreements already signed.

He attacked the all-important document that is The Hague Joint Declaration as being a document of perpetual division because he did not agree with the basic principles stated in the document, that the holding of peace negotiations must be in accordance with mutually acceptable principles, including national sovereignty, democracy and social justice and no precondition shall be made to negate the inherent character and purpose of the peace negotiations.

He did not agree with the principle of mutuality and reciprocity because he wanted to impose the authority of the GRP over the NDFP and the revolutionary movement.

He wanted the NDFP to surrender even without having come to agreement on the necessary reforms.

He said that in fact, the GRP was already implementing socio-economic programs, implying that there was really no need to go into the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER), the second item in the substantive agenda of the peace negotiations.

That is why under his watch as head of the GRP negotiating panel, the talks could not proceed on CASER, which even the GRP panel under Silvestre Bello acknowledges as the “heart and soul” of the peace negotiations.

Padilla is spreading intrigue in his claim that the NDFP leaders engaged in the current peace negotiations do not represent the revolutionary movement.

He also implies that President Duterte and the rest of the GRP panel are stupid for talking to these leaders.

Having become irrelevant to the current peace talks, he is now trying hard to be a “spoiler”. ###

Reference:
Dan Borjal
email: dfborjal@gmail.com
twitter: https://twitter.com/dfborjal
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dborjal
viber: +31 643108419
whatsapp: Dan Borjal

https://www.ndfp.org/biggest-failure-padilla/

NDF: NDFP signs agreement to forge interim joint ceasefire, move talks forward

Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Apr 5): NDFP signs agreement to forge interim joint ceasefire, move talks forward 



NDFP Media Office
Press statement

 5 April 2017

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) signed an agreement on an interim joint ceasefire in order to ensure that negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) on basic socio-economic and political reforms move forward.

In an interview, Wilma Tiamzon, a member of the NDFP ceasefire committee, said that the NDFP exercised flexibility to find a way out of the impasse that resulted from the lifting of both sides’ unilateral ceasefires last February and help regain trust and goodwill between the two parties that prevailed in the first three rounds of the peace talks.

NDFP panel chair Fidel Agcaoili said that the NDFP exercised maximum flexibility without abandoning principles when it signed an agreement with the GRP on an interim joint ceasefire. The interim joint ceasefire agreement takes effect after or simultaneous to the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (CASER). “This is not yet a ceasefire agreement,” said Agcaoili, “but it is a significant step because it points the road towards making an interim joint ceasefire agreement.”

In a written interview, NDFP consultant Dan Borjal said that both parties’ ceasefire committees will be working hard on the guidelines and ground rules of the interim joint ceasefire agreement so that the prospective ceasefire can be more stable than the previous unilateral ceasefires.

Tiamzon explained that the working out of the guidelines and ground rules to implement the interim joint ceasefire will go hand in hand with the forging of the CASER which is supposed to be finished before the current year ends.

“This will go a long way in building trust and confidence and generating the atmosphere for the acceleration of the negotiations for CASER,” NDFP chief political consultant Jose Ma. Sison said in his remarks during the signing ceremony.

“I think the (ceasefire) negotiators were wise and flexible enough to make provisions for what some people expected would break the negotiations,” he added.

The NDFP expects that the signing of the interim joint ceasefire will likewise be accompanied by the release and grant of general amnesty to all political prisoners listed by the NDFP.

https://www.ndfp.org/ndfp-signs-agreement-to-forge-interim-joint-ceasefire-move-talks-forward/

NDF: CPP-NPA calls for SOMO for release of POWs

Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Apr 5): CPP-NPA calls for SOMO for release of POWs 



NDFP Media Office
Press statement
5 April 2017

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) today reiterates and confirms the February 19, 2017 statement of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) directing the concerned New People’s Army (NPA) units to expedite the release of the six (6) captured prisoners of war (POWs) still in their custody as a “positive gesture” for the ongoing fourth round of the GRP-NDFP peace talks.

In fact, pursuant to the said CPP directive, the process of releases was immediately initiated. Last March 25, two (2) POWs, paramilitary members Rene Doller and Mark Nocus, captured in Lupon, Davao Oriental on February 14, were already released by their NPA custodial force to the members of the Third Party Facilitators and Independent Humanitarian Mission (TPFIHM) in Mati City, Davao Oriental.

The four (4) remaining POWs
PFC Edwin Salan, captured in Alegria, Surigao del Norte on January 29;
Sgt. Solaiman Calucop captured in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat
on February 2;
PFC Samuel Garay, also captured in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat
on February 2; and
PO2 Jerome Natividad, captured in Talakag, Bukidnon on February 9

would have also been released in earnest but for the continuous and heightened AFP operations in the provinces where they were captured, which is not only hampering the release but even placing the lives and safety of the said captured combatants and their respective NPA custodial forces as well as facilitators in serious jeopardy.

Yet, despite the difficult circumstances, the NDFP and the respective NPA commands continue to work closely with the members of the Third Party Facilitators and Independent Humanitarian Mission for the release of the remaining four (4) POWs.

For the safe and orderly release of the POWs, as well as to facilitate the safe withdrawal of the concerned NPA custodial forces, the NDFP strongly urges the GRP to order a ten-day Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) for the AFP and Suspension of Police Operations (SOPO) for the PNP in and around the areas where the POWs will be released.

In particular, the said SOMO and SOPO should cover the following areas:

A. Bukidnon

Talakag (15 barrios)
Lantapan (14 barrios)
Baungon (10 barrios)
Malaybalay City (Tampi in Mt. Kitanglad, 10 barrios)
Pangantucan (10 barrios)
Kalilangan (5 barrios)
Valencia City (near Mt. Kalatungan, 10 barrios)

B. Surigao del Norte

Surigao City
Alegria
Bacuag
Gigaquit
Claver
Placer
Mainit

C. Agusan del Norte

Kitcharao

D. Sultan Kudarat (not entire province, areas to follow)

E. Sarangani (not entire province, areas to follow)

F. South Cotabato (not entire province, areas to follow)

The specific details of the releases will be coordinated by the respective NPA units with the members of the TPFIHM.

Again, the positive immediate response by the GRP in this regard will create the necessary favorable condition for the safe, expeditious and orderly release of the POWs, as well as the safety of their respective families and the members of the TPFIHM, and, also the safe withdrawal of the NPA custodial forces.

The positive response of the GRP will also further the positive thrust of the ongoing round of negotiations.

https://www.ndfp.org/cpp-npa-calls-somo-release-pows/