From the online publication the Davao Today (May 26): Maute threatens to behead priest
THE Maute group called up a Roman Catholic bishop and threatened to behead a priest and 14 church workers unless the military stopped its operations in Marawi City.
Msgr. Elmer Abacahin of the Roman Catholic archdiocese in Cagayan de Oro revealed this yesterday even as he expressed fears that the group would make good its threat against Fr. Chito Suganog and other captives.
Abacahin said the Maute group got in touch with Bishop Edwin dela Peña of the Roman Catholic prelature of Marawi City and told him that the hostages would be beheaded one by one unless the government gave in to its demand.
He said the group asked no ransom but was firm in its demand for the military to stop its operations in Marawi.
Fr. Suganog is the parish priest at the St. Mary’s Cathedral in Marawi City that was seized by the Maute group members as they burned a church and other establishments in the predominantly Muslim city on Tuesday.
Abacahin said Suganog and the church workers were preparing for a feast that was supposed to have been celebrated yesterday.
“Until now, we have not heard anything about Fr. Chito but authorities have said that the Maute group is still trapped in Marawi,” Abacahin said.
Camp Alagar yesterday confirmed that the Maute group has taken hostage the priest and the church workers.
Police however identified only three church workers taken hostage: Ma. Luisa Colina, Wendelyn Mayormita and Crispina Banrang.
Authorities said the group set afire the María Auxiliadora church, Ninoy Aquino College and the Marawi city jail, and then took control of 11 Marawi barangays: Bangon Saber, Tuca Banggolo, Naga, Monkado, Colony, Caloocan, Marinaut, Mapandi, Matampay, Basak, and Malutlot.
Camp Alagar spokesman Supt. Lemwel Gonda said the Maute group also killed two police officials at noon Wednesday. He identified the dead as Senior Insp. Freddie Solar and Senior Insp. Edwin Placido, Marawi’s police chief.
Gonda also identified two wounded officers. They are PO3 Jeffrey Mayos and PO2 Bele Tayaban, members of the National Police’s Special Action Force (SAF).
Meanwhile, the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) set up three evacuation centers in Iligan City for thousands of evacuees from Marawi City.
OCD regional director Liza Mazo said the evacuation centers are in Boroon, Maria Cristina and Kabili.
“Daghan na kaayo paingon sa Iligan and Cagayan de Oro, and we prepared kung unsa gyud atong matabang kanila like food packs,” Mazo said.
She said the OCD regional office has been coordinating with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Camp Aguinaldo and the coordinating councils of Iligan, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte and Cagayan de Oro.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board sent six buses to fetch fleeing civilians along the boundaries of Marawi.
Mazo said they were counting how many families and persons that were displaced.
Chief Supt. Agripino Javier, police director for northen Mindanao, said the police would continue being on full alert and step up security operations to prevent a spillover of violence from Laoan del Sur.
Javier said all entry and exit points in Region 10 are being watched by the police that set up checkpoints.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/maute-threatens-to-behead-priest/
Thursday, May 25, 2017
'Foreigners fighting' with ISIL-linked Philippine group
From Aljazeera (May 26): 'Foreigners fighting' with ISIL-linked Philippine group
Indonesians and Malaysians among those killed by army in Marawi, where clashes with Maute forces thousands to flee.
Government troops drive past a marker of Marawi city [Romeo Ranoco/Reuters]
Foreign fighters were among local gunmen clashing with the Philippine army in Mindanao island, authorities said on Friday, in a rare admission that outsiders were collaborating with domestic groups.
Military officials said Malaysians and Indonesians were among six killed on Thursday in battles that have raged for four days in Marawi City, where the army has been trying to flush out rebels of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf armed groups, which are linked to Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS).
The Philippines has deployed attack helicopters and special forces to drive the gunmen out of the besieged southern city of 200,000 people, with at least 11 soldiers and 31 fighters killed.
"Before it was just a local terrorist group. But now they have subscribed to the ideology of ISIS," Solicitor General Jose Calida told a news conference. "They want to make Mindanao part of the caliphate."
READ MORE: Mindanao - Churchgoers 'taken hostage' amid Marawi siege
The ongoing violence has forced thousands to flee Marawi, located about 816km south of the capital, Manila.
"We are sad to see our children like this. They are just sleeping anywhere," Somaira Aloon, an evacuee, told Al Jazeera. "We can't work, it's a difficult life."
Al Jazeera's Jamela Alindogan, reporting from Marawi, said: "The Maute has specifically harassed and killed Christians in the area. Since last year, they have been raising ISIL's black flag in government facilities."
She said reports that foreign fighters had joined the group had been circulating since 2012.
Residents proceed to a evacuation center outside of Marawi City [Romeo Ranoco/Reuters]
President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday delivered on his longstanding threat to impose martial law on Mindanao, the country's second-largest island and home to 22 million people - roughly one-third of the population.
A day later, Duterte said he may impose nationwide martial law.
He recently warned that ISIL was determined to establish a presence in the southern Philippines and the country was at risk of "contamination".
Calida said the Maute group and ISIL wanted to create its own "province" in Mindanao and the government was not the only target of their aggression.
"People they consider as infidels, whether Christians or Muslims, are also targets of opportunity," he said.
"What it worrisome is that the ISIS has radicalised a number of Filipino Muslim youth."
His admission elevates the threat of what experts says are moves by ISIL to exploit the poverty and exclusion of the majority Muslim southern Philippines to establish a base for fighters from Southeast Asia and beyond.
Bae a Labi Alsham Cayongcat, a humanitarian worker, told Al Jazeera: "Children in an evacuation centre, or children in remote areas who may have not felt the basic services that can be afforded to them by the government, they can be vulnerable to any indoctrination."
OPINION: Peace is still possible in Duterte's Philippines
The Maute is a fierce, but little-known group that has been a tricky battlefield opponent for the military.
It was blamed for a bombing in Duterte's home city of Davao in September last year, which killed 14 people and wounded dozens.
The Maute's rise is a source of concern for Mindanao native Duterte, who is familiar with Muslim separatist unrest but alarmed by the prospect of rebels helping ISIL to recruit and establish a presence in the volatile region.
Hostilities erupted after security forces raided a Marawi apartment in a bid to capture Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of Abu Sayyaf.
The operation went wrong after allied Maute fighters called in reinforcements, and then went on a deadly rampage throughout the city.
The government says Hapilon has been the point man for ISIL in the Philippines and has been collaborating with the Maute leaders.
Calida, the solicitor general, said ISIL had declared that Hapilon was "their emir, or leader in the Philippines".
Government soldiers on military vehicles patrol after a continued assault on fighters from the Maute group who have taken over large parts of Marawi City [Romeo Ranoco/Reuters]
Indonesians and Malaysians among those killed by army in Marawi, where clashes with Maute forces thousands to flee.
Government troops drive past a marker of Marawi city [Romeo Ranoco/Reuters]
Foreign fighters were among local gunmen clashing with the Philippine army in Mindanao island, authorities said on Friday, in a rare admission that outsiders were collaborating with domestic groups.
Military officials said Malaysians and Indonesians were among six killed on Thursday in battles that have raged for four days in Marawi City, where the army has been trying to flush out rebels of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf armed groups, which are linked to Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS).
The Philippines has deployed attack helicopters and special forces to drive the gunmen out of the besieged southern city of 200,000 people, with at least 11 soldiers and 31 fighters killed.
"Before it was just a local terrorist group. But now they have subscribed to the ideology of ISIS," Solicitor General Jose Calida told a news conference. "They want to make Mindanao part of the caliphate."
READ MORE: Mindanao - Churchgoers 'taken hostage' amid Marawi siege
The ongoing violence has forced thousands to flee Marawi, located about 816km south of the capital, Manila.
"We are sad to see our children like this. They are just sleeping anywhere," Somaira Aloon, an evacuee, told Al Jazeera. "We can't work, it's a difficult life."
Al Jazeera's Jamela Alindogan, reporting from Marawi, said: "The Maute has specifically harassed and killed Christians in the area. Since last year, they have been raising ISIL's black flag in government facilities."
She said reports that foreign fighters had joined the group had been circulating since 2012.
Residents proceed to a evacuation center outside of Marawi City [Romeo Ranoco/Reuters]
President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday delivered on his longstanding threat to impose martial law on Mindanao, the country's second-largest island and home to 22 million people - roughly one-third of the population.
A day later, Duterte said he may impose nationwide martial law.
He recently warned that ISIL was determined to establish a presence in the southern Philippines and the country was at risk of "contamination".
Calida said the Maute group and ISIL wanted to create its own "province" in Mindanao and the government was not the only target of their aggression.
"People they consider as infidels, whether Christians or Muslims, are also targets of opportunity," he said.
"What it worrisome is that the ISIS has radicalised a number of Filipino Muslim youth."
His admission elevates the threat of what experts says are moves by ISIL to exploit the poverty and exclusion of the majority Muslim southern Philippines to establish a base for fighters from Southeast Asia and beyond.
Bae a Labi Alsham Cayongcat, a humanitarian worker, told Al Jazeera: "Children in an evacuation centre, or children in remote areas who may have not felt the basic services that can be afforded to them by the government, they can be vulnerable to any indoctrination."
OPINION: Peace is still possible in Duterte's Philippines
The Maute is a fierce, but little-known group that has been a tricky battlefield opponent for the military.
It was blamed for a bombing in Duterte's home city of Davao in September last year, which killed 14 people and wounded dozens.
The Maute's rise is a source of concern for Mindanao native Duterte, who is familiar with Muslim separatist unrest but alarmed by the prospect of rebels helping ISIL to recruit and establish a presence in the volatile region.
Hostilities erupted after security forces raided a Marawi apartment in a bid to capture Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of Abu Sayyaf.
The operation went wrong after allied Maute fighters called in reinforcements, and then went on a deadly rampage throughout the city.
The government says Hapilon has been the point man for ISIL in the Philippines and has been collaborating with the Maute leaders.
Calida, the solicitor general, said ISIL had declared that Hapilon was "their emir, or leader in the Philippines".
Government soldiers on military vehicles patrol after a continued assault on fighters from the Maute group who have taken over large parts of Marawi City [Romeo Ranoco/Reuters]
PH eyes Russian submarines, sniper rifles, precision-guided munitions for FA-50PHs
From Update Philippines (May 26): PH eyes Russian submarines, sniper rifles, precision-guided munitions for FA-50PHs
The Philippines is planning to acquire weapons, including advanced diesel-electric submarines from Russia. This was disclosed by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in an interview on PNA Exclusive in Moscow, Russia around 2 p.m. Tuesday (7 p.m., Manila time).
“Yes, we have plans to purchase weapons from them. They have also very sophisticated and advanced weaponry. We will look into them, we have not decided what equipment but off the bat, we are looking, we would like to develop our submarine force so we will look into their submarines one of these days,” he added.
Lorenzana was with President Rodrigo Duterte on his official trip to Russia which was cut short by the ongoing clash between government forces and Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
“If we can buy submarines or if they are affordable for us, or if the Philippine Navy would be willing to go there because we will give it to the Navy to decide what kind of submarine they would like to purchase. That is one of the plans that the PN (wants) is to develop some submarine capabilities,” the DND chief pointed out.
And when asked on where these vessels will be based, Lorenzana said that they are looking into that detail.
“We will look into that. We don’t have any submarine base yet in the Philippines but if we will purchase already then we have to develop a submarine base to keep those submarines safe,” Lorenzana pointed out.
Another Russian-made weapon being looked by the Philippines is sniper rifles and precision-guided munitions which can be used for the country’s brand-new FA-50 “Fighting Eagle” jet aircraft and AW-109 attack helicopters.
“So one of the things that we are considering is the sniper rifles of the Russians, they have very good sniper rifles. They also have very good precision-guided munition that we can use with our FA-50s, and our attack helicopters. Those are the items. But we have to see more because sometime this year, there will be this defense exhibition that they are going to hold here and we will send some people to look into it,” the DND chief added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/ph-eyes-russian-submarines-sniper-rifles-precision-guided-munitions-for-fa-50phs/17743
The Philippines is planning to acquire weapons, including advanced diesel-electric submarines from Russia. This was disclosed by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in an interview on PNA Exclusive in Moscow, Russia around 2 p.m. Tuesday (7 p.m., Manila time).
“Yes, we have plans to purchase weapons from them. They have also very sophisticated and advanced weaponry. We will look into them, we have not decided what equipment but off the bat, we are looking, we would like to develop our submarine force so we will look into their submarines one of these days,” he added.
Lorenzana was with President Rodrigo Duterte on his official trip to Russia which was cut short by the ongoing clash between government forces and Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
“If we can buy submarines or if they are affordable for us, or if the Philippine Navy would be willing to go there because we will give it to the Navy to decide what kind of submarine they would like to purchase. That is one of the plans that the PN (wants) is to develop some submarine capabilities,” the DND chief pointed out.
And when asked on where these vessels will be based, Lorenzana said that they are looking into that detail.
“We will look into that. We don’t have any submarine base yet in the Philippines but if we will purchase already then we have to develop a submarine base to keep those submarines safe,” Lorenzana pointed out.
Another Russian-made weapon being looked by the Philippines is sniper rifles and precision-guided munitions which can be used for the country’s brand-new FA-50 “Fighting Eagle” jet aircraft and AW-109 attack helicopters.
“So one of the things that we are considering is the sniper rifles of the Russians, they have very good sniper rifles. They also have very good precision-guided munition that we can use with our FA-50s, and our attack helicopters. Those are the items. But we have to see more because sometime this year, there will be this defense exhibition that they are going to hold here and we will send some people to look into it,” the DND chief added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/ph-eyes-russian-submarines-sniper-rifles-precision-guided-munitions-for-fa-50phs/17743
China furious after US warship challenged claim in West PH Sea
From Update Philippines (May 26): China furious after US warship challenged claim in West PH Sea
China is furious after a United States Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS Dewey (DDG 105) challenged its sovereignty claims in West Philippine Sea.
Early Thursday, May 25 the American warship sailed within the 12-nautical-mile waters off Panganiban (Mischief) Reef were an artificial Chinese island was established.
“China is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposed to this,” Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang said in a regular press briefing on same day.
“The relevant action of the US vessel undermined China’s sovereignty and security interests and is highly likely to cause untoward incidents in the waters and airspace,” he said.
“The Chinese side respects and safeguards the freedom of navigation and over-flight in the South China Sea to which all countries are entitled under international law, but firmly opposes the undermining of China’s sovereignty and security interests by any country in the name of the freedom of navigation and over-flight,” he added.
Pentagon spokesman Gary Ross said “we are continuing regular FONOPS, as we have routinely done in the past and will continue to do in the future.”
Dewey is part of the Sterett-Dewey Surface Action Group of US Navy 3rd Fleet. This is the third deploying group to operate within 7th Fleet’s area of operations. 3rd Fleet operating forward offers additional options to the Pacific Fleet commander by leveraging the capabilities of 3rd and 7th Fleets.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/china-furious-after-us-warship-challenged-claim-in-west-ph-sea/17746
China is furious after a United States Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS Dewey (DDG 105) challenged its sovereignty claims in West Philippine Sea.
Early Thursday, May 25 the American warship sailed within the 12-nautical-mile waters off Panganiban (Mischief) Reef were an artificial Chinese island was established.
“China is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposed to this,” Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang said in a regular press briefing on same day.
“The relevant action of the US vessel undermined China’s sovereignty and security interests and is highly likely to cause untoward incidents in the waters and airspace,” he said.
“The Chinese side respects and safeguards the freedom of navigation and over-flight in the South China Sea to which all countries are entitled under international law, but firmly opposes the undermining of China’s sovereignty and security interests by any country in the name of the freedom of navigation and over-flight,” he added.
Pentagon spokesman Gary Ross said “we are continuing regular FONOPS, as we have routinely done in the past and will continue to do in the future.”
Dewey is part of the Sterett-Dewey Surface Action Group of US Navy 3rd Fleet. This is the third deploying group to operate within 7th Fleet’s area of operations. 3rd Fleet operating forward offers additional options to the Pacific Fleet commander by leveraging the capabilities of 3rd and 7th Fleets.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/china-furious-after-us-warship-challenged-claim-in-west-ph-sea/17746
Russian weapons manufacturers may soon establish in PH
From Update Philippines (May 26): Russian weapons manufacturers may soon establish in PH
The government has plans to invite Russian weapons manufacturers to set up shop in Limay, Bataan. “That’s one of the plans because we are converting the area of the Government Arsenal (GA) in Limay, Bataan which consists of 300 hectares and we are trying to develop that. There is now a bill in Congress, they have already been deliberating it to convert that it into a defense manufacturing complex that will involve other locators from other countries,” Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in an interview with PNA Exclusive in Moscow, Russia around 2 p.m. Tuesday (7 p.m., Manila time), disclosed.
The GA is tasked to manufacture bullets for the M-16, M-14 automatic rifles and .45 caliber pistols still in service with the military.
“If they can see that they can make a little profit there, then maybe, make a stepping stone to go into Southeast Asia to also cater to the nine other ASEAN nations. That’s why they’re very interested to deal with us through military relationship so that they can have this road into the ASEAN,” Lorenzana said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/russian-weapons-manufacturers-may-soon-establish-in-ph/17749
The government has plans to invite Russian weapons manufacturers to set up shop in Limay, Bataan. “That’s one of the plans because we are converting the area of the Government Arsenal (GA) in Limay, Bataan which consists of 300 hectares and we are trying to develop that. There is now a bill in Congress, they have already been deliberating it to convert that it into a defense manufacturing complex that will involve other locators from other countries,” Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in an interview with PNA Exclusive in Moscow, Russia around 2 p.m. Tuesday (7 p.m., Manila time), disclosed.
The GA is tasked to manufacture bullets for the M-16, M-14 automatic rifles and .45 caliber pistols still in service with the military.
“If they can see that they can make a little profit there, then maybe, make a stepping stone to go into Southeast Asia to also cater to the nine other ASEAN nations. That’s why they’re very interested to deal with us through military relationship so that they can have this road into the ASEAN,” Lorenzana said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/russian-weapons-manufacturers-may-soon-establish-in-ph/17749
Rappler Talk: Rohan Gunaratna on ISIS in the Philippines
From Rappler (May 25): Rappler Talk: Rohan Gunaratna on ISIS in the Philippines
Watch our interview with terrorism expert Rohan Gunaratna live
Rappler talks to Rohan Gunaratna, terrorism expert.
Gunaratna chronicled the rise of al-Qaeda in his seminal 2002 book, Inside Al-Qaeda: Global Network of Terror. Shortly after that, he moved to Singapore and helped create the International Centre for Political Violence & Terrorism Research within the S.Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University.
Gunaratna talks to Rappler about the rise of terrorism group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in the Philippines, in relation to the recent clash between Philippine government forces and local terror group Maute in Marawi, Lanao del Sur. Watch it here.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170805-rappler-talk-rohan-gunaratna-isis-philippines
Watch our interview with terrorism expert Rohan Gunaratna live
Rappler talks to Rohan Gunaratna, terrorism expert.
Gunaratna chronicled the rise of al-Qaeda in his seminal 2002 book, Inside Al-Qaeda: Global Network of Terror. Shortly after that, he moved to Singapore and helped create the International Centre for Political Violence & Terrorism Research within the S.Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University.
Gunaratna talks to Rappler about the rise of terrorism group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in the Philippines, in relation to the recent clash between Philippine government forces and local terror group Maute in Marawi, Lanao del Sur. Watch it here.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170805-rappler-talk-rohan-gunaratna-isis-philippines
Marawi Clash: Special coverage
From Rappler (May 25): Marawi Clash: Special coverage
Watch the live coverage on Rappler
Rappler brings to you updates on the ground from Marawi City, ground zero of the Maute Group's attack.
Watch the live coverage on Rappler
Rappler brings to you updates on the ground from Marawi City, ground zero of the Maute Group's attack.
Five soldiers and 13 members of the terror groups were killed in the clashes, based on military reports. Up to 31 soldiers were wounded.
Clashes erupted on Tuesday as the military moved to hunt down Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who was spotted in Marawi City.
Watch updates from the Rappler team here.
IN PHOTOS: Explosions, fire, trapped residents on Day 3 of Marawi siege
From Rappler (May 26): IN PHOTOS: Explosions, fire, trapped residents on Day 3 of Marawi siege
Loud explosions and a fire started the day Thursday, May 25, as the military begins clearing operations
MANILA, Philippines – Firefight resumed between government troops and members of the terrorist Maute Group in Marawi City on Thursday, May 25.
Loud explosions and a fire started the day as the military began clearing operations, and residents were told to stay indoors.
"As troops go on street-by-street clearing, civilians should stay at their homes," said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in a text message.
More residents are seen on the road with their bags, fleeing the city. Some opted to stay and are asking government for food and water.
Western Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez said the military needs a few more days to clear Marawi City of the presence of terrorist groups.
The clashes between government troops and the Maute Group, which started on Tuesday, May 23, prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in all of Mindanao.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170955-photos-day-3-marawi-siege
Loud explosions and a fire started the day Thursday, May 25, as the military begins clearing operations
ASSAULT. Goverment troops prepare to flush Maute Group members out of Marawi on Wednesday, May 25, 2017. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – Firefight resumed between government troops and members of the terrorist Maute Group in Marawi City on Thursday, May 25.
Loud explosions and a fire started the day as the military began clearing operations, and residents were told to stay indoors.
"As troops go on street-by-street clearing, civilians should stay at their homes," said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in a text message.
AERIAL SUPPORT. A chopper flies out of a military camp as fighting between troops and the Maute Group rages. Photo by Ted Aljibe/AFP
ANOTHER FIRE. Black smoke billows from burning houses near the Lanao del Sur provincial capitol in Marawi. Photo by Ted Aljibe/AFP
EXODUS. Residents continue to leave Marawi City. Photo by Ted Aljibe/AFP
More residents are seen on the road with their bags, fleeing the city. Some opted to stay and are asking government for food and water.
TRAPPED. Residents who can’t or won’t leave Marawi City are asking for food and water from the government. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
CLEARING OPERATIONS. Goverment troops go house to house, street to street, to clear Marawi of terrorists Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
GHOST TOWN. A row of closed shops on a street in Marawi City. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
Western Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez said the military needs a few more days to clear Marawi City of the presence of terrorist groups.
MARTIAL LAW. Police special forces inspect vehicles at a checkpoint near the entrance to Marawi. Photo by Ted Aljibe/AFP
The clashes between government troops and the Maute Group, which started on Tuesday, May 23, prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in all of Mindanao.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170955-photos-day-3-marawi-siege
WATCH: In Marawi, the exodus continues
From Rappler (May 25): WATCH: In Marawi, the exodus continues
There is a feeling that this is not going to be over soon
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur – It's already day 3 of the clashes between government forces and local terrorists in Marawi City, but the siege is far from over.
Carmela Fonbuena files this report.
The exodus continues. Coming here from Iligan City, we saw long lines of vehicles fleeing the city.
We arrived in Marawi in the morning to a billow of black smoke in the sky. Another fire broke out not so far from here. Exchanges of gunfire and loud explosions followed.
On the streets, we saw residents scampering to flee.
Online, videos are uploaded of ISIS black flags on the windows of residences.
Here inside the camp, there's a lot of activities and troop movements.
There was a scare here when enemy snipers seemed to be attempting to shoot at choppers that have been going back and forth moving troops and supplies.
They are quite ambitious attempts really, they will discover later, but the soldiers immediately grabbed their vests and guns.
It has been a long day. Eight soldiers were killed in action just today.
There is a feeling that this is not going to be over soon.
Carmela Fonbuena, Rappler, Marawi City.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170972-watch-marawi-exodus-maute
There is a feeling that this is not going to be over soon
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur – It's already day 3 of the clashes between government forces and local terrorists in Marawi City, but the siege is far from over.
Carmela Fonbuena files this report.
The exodus continues. Coming here from Iligan City, we saw long lines of vehicles fleeing the city.
We arrived in Marawi in the morning to a billow of black smoke in the sky. Another fire broke out not so far from here. Exchanges of gunfire and loud explosions followed.
On the streets, we saw residents scampering to flee.
Online, videos are uploaded of ISIS black flags on the windows of residences.
Here inside the camp, there's a lot of activities and troop movements.
There was a scare here when enemy snipers seemed to be attempting to shoot at choppers that have been going back and forth moving troops and supplies.
They are quite ambitious attempts really, they will discover later, but the soldiers immediately grabbed their vests and guns.
It has been a long day. Eight soldiers were killed in action just today.
There is a feeling that this is not going to be over soon.
Carmela Fonbuena, Rappler, Marawi City.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170972-watch-marawi-exodus-maute
Retired army general convicted again for corruption
From Rappler (May 26): Retired army general convicted again for corruption
In a separate corruption case, Jose Ramiscal Jr is already convicted of malversation and the falsification of public documents
In a separate corruption case, Jose Ramiscal Jr is already convicted of malversation and the falsification of public documents
Sandiganbayan photo by: DARREN LANGIT
The anti-graft court Sandiganbayan convicted retired general Jose Ramiscal Jr for the misuse of army retirement funds 21 years ago.
Ramiscal was the president of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Retirement and Separation Benefits System (AFP-RSBS). Ramsical was charged with graft for approving the payment of P24.2 million in retirement funds to a property development firm he entered into a contract with in 1995.
The Sandiganbayan fourth division found Ramiscal guilty and sentenced him to 12 years imprisonment. Ramiscal was already convicted of malversation and falsification of public documents in 2016 for overpriced lots purchased for a housing project for retired soldiers.
The anti-graft court affirmed the 2016 conviction just last April. Ramiscal got 14 years for the conviction and was fined P250 million for the overpricing.
Latest case
This latest conviction stems from the irregular payments of AFP-RSBS of a total of P24 millon in property fees and taxes.
AFP–RSBS went into a joint venture with DM Wenceslao and Associates Inc. (DMWAI) to create the Bay Resources Development Corp (Bradco). Bradco was an investment of the army retirement group to develop a 10-hectare portion of the Manila-Cavite Coastal Road and Reclamation Project.
After the successful reclamation of the property, Bradco sold it to AFP-RSBS for P372 million. Because of the purchase, Ramiscal's retirement group paid P18.61 million worth of creditable withholding tax and P5.58 million worth of documentary stamp taxes.
Ramiscal was charged because the Deed of Conveyance states that it should have been Bradco as the vendor who paid all the taxes. Investigation also found that Ramiscal authorized the payment without the approval from his board.
Fourth Division Associate Justices Reynaldo P. Cruz, Alex L. Quiroz, and Geraldine Faith A. Econg said Ramiscal was motivated by the “presumption of interest or personal gain” when he released the funds to “finance manifestly irregular transactions”.
Ramiscal had defended himself by saying he approved the payments because his subordinates recommended it to him. However, investigation also found that the Deed of Conveyance was signed on the same day of Ramiscal's authorization of the payment.
For the court, this means Ramiscal was aware of what the Deed of Conveyance says and cannot feign ignorance of proper procedure.
The anomaly was further proven when they examined a supposed authorization from the board, but it was one which only allowed a fund release up to P15 million.
According to the court, the fact the payments reached P24 million "establishes the irregularity in the release of funds."
“From the foregoing discussions, this Court is convinced that the guilt of the accused Ramiscal Jr. has been established and proven beyond reasonable doubt, thereby warranting his conviction in these cases,” the fourth division said in its 21-page decision.
The anti-graft court Sandiganbayan convicted retired general Jose Ramiscal Jr for the misuse of army retirement funds 21 years ago.
Ramiscal was the president of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Retirement and Separation Benefits System (AFP-RSBS). Ramsical was charged with graft for approving the payment of P24.2 million in retirement funds to a property development firm he entered into a contract with in 1995.
The Sandiganbayan fourth division found Ramiscal guilty and sentenced him to 12 years imprisonment. Ramiscal was already convicted of malversation and falsification of public documents in 2016 for overpriced lots purchased for a housing project for retired soldiers.
The anti-graft court affirmed the 2016 conviction just last April. Ramiscal got 14 years for the conviction and was fined P250 million for the overpricing.
Latest case
This latest conviction stems from the irregular payments of AFP-RSBS of a total of P24 millon in property fees and taxes.
AFP–RSBS went into a joint venture with DM Wenceslao and Associates Inc. (DMWAI) to create the Bay Resources Development Corp (Bradco). Bradco was an investment of the army retirement group to develop a 10-hectare portion of the Manila-Cavite Coastal Road and Reclamation Project.
After the successful reclamation of the property, Bradco sold it to AFP-RSBS for P372 million. Because of the purchase, Ramiscal's retirement group paid P18.61 million worth of creditable withholding tax and P5.58 million worth of documentary stamp taxes.
Ramiscal was charged because the Deed of Conveyance states that it should have been Bradco as the vendor who paid all the taxes. Investigation also found that Ramiscal authorized the payment without the approval from his board.
Fourth Division Associate Justices Reynaldo P. Cruz, Alex L. Quiroz, and Geraldine Faith A. Econg said Ramiscal was motivated by the “presumption of interest or personal gain” when he released the funds to “finance manifestly irregular transactions”.
Ramiscal had defended himself by saying he approved the payments because his subordinates recommended it to him. However, investigation also found that the Deed of Conveyance was signed on the same day of Ramiscal's authorization of the payment.
For the court, this means Ramiscal was aware of what the Deed of Conveyance says and cannot feign ignorance of proper procedure.
The anomaly was further proven when they examined a supposed authorization from the board, but it was one which only allowed a fund release up to P15 million.
According to the court, the fact the payments reached P24 million "establishes the irregularity in the release of funds."
“From the foregoing discussions, this Court is convinced that the guilt of the accused Ramiscal Jr. has been established and proven beyond reasonable doubt, thereby warranting his conviction in these cases,” the fourth division said in its 21-page decision.
He watched Maute Group kill a cop, then he escaped
From Rappler (May 26): He watched Maute Group kill a cop, then he escaped
Jan, 23, flees to safety after witnessing the horror at the Amai Pakpak Medical Center
At the main entrance of the Amai Pakpak Medical Hospital, gunmen who attacked this city shot dead a policeman after he gestured at the security guard to shut the door.
The terrorists aimed at the guard next, fired shots in the air to signal they’ve taken over the building, and forced the hospital staff to attend to their wounded fighters.
Jan, a 23-year-old hospital employee, shuddered as he watched the events unfold real-time on the hospital's CCTV feed on Tuesday, May 23, when ISIS-inspired members of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups seized villages here.
His first instinct was to run to his brother, who operates the hospital elevator, before the Maute could get to him. It was about 3 pm when it all happened, Jan recalled in an interview with Rappler.
“Nagsimula ang bakbakan sa Basak area sa Lutlut. Doon ‘yung una. Ilang minuto siguro doon na pumasok na sa hospital. Pinasok ng ISIS kasi walang sundalo kahit isa,” he said. (The firefight began in the area of Basak Lutlut. After a few minutes they entered the hospital. ISIS was able to enter because there were no soldiers.)
Together with his brother, Jan spent the next hour moving from one hospital room to another, looking for the best place to hide until they found a way out. They used a plank to bridge windows on the hospital’s 3rd floor to the next building.
The brothers, both Christians, first sought refuge in a house owned by a Muslim who welcomed them even at the risk of earning the gunmen's ire. He asked them to leave at 7 pm, however, saying he wanted to avoid angering the Maute Group.
As buildings burned and shots were fired, Jan, his brother and a few friends walked the streets towards the headquarters of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade. They thought it was the safest place to be in.
He asked his wife to leave their home and bring their son to the headquarters, too, where they hope to hitch a ride with the military in going to nearby Iligan City.
Jan said he's afraid of the "ISIS," thus the decision to leave Marawi.
Jan was still with his family at the military headquarters last Thursday, May 25. He said he was hoping to get a ride to Iligan on Friday, May 26.
“Kahit anong sasakyan basta pauwi ng Iligan (Any kind of vehicle will do – as long as we can go to Iligan),” he said.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/171000-survivor-marawi-clash-maute
Jan, 23, flees to safety after witnessing the horror at the Amai Pakpak Medical Center
FRIENDS. Jan Yamit and his friends at the Amai Pakpak Medical Center escaped the Maute attack together. Rappler photo
At the main entrance of the Amai Pakpak Medical Hospital, gunmen who attacked this city shot dead a policeman after he gestured at the security guard to shut the door.
The terrorists aimed at the guard next, fired shots in the air to signal they’ve taken over the building, and forced the hospital staff to attend to their wounded fighters.
Jan, a 23-year-old hospital employee, shuddered as he watched the events unfold real-time on the hospital's CCTV feed on Tuesday, May 23, when ISIS-inspired members of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups seized villages here.
His first instinct was to run to his brother, who operates the hospital elevator, before the Maute could get to him. It was about 3 pm when it all happened, Jan recalled in an interview with Rappler.
“Nagsimula ang bakbakan sa Basak area sa Lutlut. Doon ‘yung una. Ilang minuto siguro doon na pumasok na sa hospital. Pinasok ng ISIS kasi walang sundalo kahit isa,” he said. (The firefight began in the area of Basak Lutlut. After a few minutes they entered the hospital. ISIS was able to enter because there were no soldiers.)
Together with his brother, Jan spent the next hour moving from one hospital room to another, looking for the best place to hide until they found a way out. They used a plank to bridge windows on the hospital’s 3rd floor to the next building.
The brothers, both Christians, first sought refuge in a house owned by a Muslim who welcomed them even at the risk of earning the gunmen's ire. He asked them to leave at 7 pm, however, saying he wanted to avoid angering the Maute Group.
As buildings burned and shots were fired, Jan, his brother and a few friends walked the streets towards the headquarters of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade. They thought it was the safest place to be in.
He asked his wife to leave their home and bring their son to the headquarters, too, where they hope to hitch a ride with the military in going to nearby Iligan City.
Jan said he's afraid of the "ISIS," thus the decision to leave Marawi.
Jan was still with his family at the military headquarters last Thursday, May 25. He said he was hoping to get a ride to Iligan on Friday, May 26.
“Kahit anong sasakyan basta pauwi ng Iligan (Any kind of vehicle will do – as long as we can go to Iligan),” he said.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/171000-survivor-marawi-clash-maute
6 foreigners among terrorists killed in Marawi – AFP
From Rappler (May 26): 6 foreigners among terrorists killed in Marawi – AFP
But the military insists this 'does not confirm the clear presence of ISIS' in the Philippines
http://www.rappler.com/nation/171025-foreign-fighters-maute-marawi
But the military insists this 'does not confirm the clear presence of ISIS' in the Philippines
MILITARY OPERATIONS. Army scout rangers conduct clearing operations to flush out members of the Maute Group occupying the city. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
The Philippine government on Friday, May 26, said foreigners were among the Maute Group and Abu Sayyaf Group members fighting government troops in Marawi City.
The Philippine government on Friday, May 26, said foreigners were among the Maute Group and Abu Sayyaf Group members fighting government troops in Marawi City.
“Malaysian, Indonesians from Singapore and other foreign jihadists,” said Solicitor General Jose Calida in a press conference with Palace officials and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Davao City.
Calida, in explaining why President Rodrigo Duterte had declared martial law over the entire Mindanao island region, said: “What’s happening in Mindanao is no longer a rebellion of Filipino citizens. It has transmogrified into invasion by foreign terrorists who heeded the clarion call of the ISIS to go to the Philippines if they find difficulty in going to Iraq or Syria.”
AFP spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, who was also at the press conference, confirmed that of the 31 alleged Maute Group members killed in clashes with government troops, 6 had been identified as foreigners.
Calida, in explaining why President Rodrigo Duterte had declared martial law over the entire Mindanao island region, said: “What’s happening in Mindanao is no longer a rebellion of Filipino citizens. It has transmogrified into invasion by foreign terrorists who heeded the clarion call of the ISIS to go to the Philippines if they find difficulty in going to Iraq or Syria.”
AFP spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, who was also at the press conference, confirmed that of the 31 alleged Maute Group members killed in clashes with government troops, 6 had been identified as foreigners.
Martial law was declared over Mindanao on May 23, following what the military said was a surgical strike against Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon, who is believed to have pledged allegiance to ISIS. The operation was followed by sporadic clashes between Philippine military and police and the combined forces of Maute and Abu Sayyaf fighters.
On May 23, at least 3 fires broke out in Marawi City. Residents have since fled the city Filipino troops continue to hold clearing operations.
Padilla would only confirm the presence of Indonesian and Malaysian fighters and refused to say how many of each nationality were identified as those killed in Marawi.
The AFP spokesman said the foreign nationals had been residing in the Philippines for “a long time.” “Some have been helping, teaching, aiding, and connecting [local terror groups],” he added.
Still, Padilla said that this does not equate to ISIS presence in the country. “Again, on the matter of ISIS the President emphasized that there's ISIS footprint but that does not confirm the clear presence of ISIS itself yet,” he told media in a chance interview.
On May 23, at least 3 fires broke out in Marawi City. Residents have since fled the city Filipino troops continue to hold clearing operations.
Padilla would only confirm the presence of Indonesian and Malaysian fighters and refused to say how many of each nationality were identified as those killed in Marawi.
The AFP spokesman said the foreign nationals had been residing in the Philippines for “a long time.” “Some have been helping, teaching, aiding, and connecting [local terror groups],” he added.
Still, Padilla said that this does not equate to ISIS presence in the country. “Again, on the matter of ISIS the President emphasized that there's ISIS footprint but that does not confirm the clear presence of ISIS itself yet,” he told media in a chance interview.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/171025-foreign-fighters-maute-marawi
Why PH needs a non-military solution to the ISIS problem
From Rappler (May 25): Why PH needs a non-military solution to the ISIS problem
An expert on counterinsurgency says development is key to avoiding radicalization in the first place
On May 23, 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte placed the entire island region of Mindanao, composed of 6 regions and 27 provinces, under martial law following clashes between government forces and members of the Maute Group in Marawi City.
In the proclamation signed during what was supposed to be Duterte’s official visit to Russia, the president cited the Marawi attack and several previous Maute offensives as a reason to impose martial law and suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus over Mindanao.
Martial law means the military takes over since local officials – the local government and police, among others – are unable to handle threats to public safety. With the writ suspended, police and military personnel cannot be compelled to produce the body of a person suspected to be in their custody, effectively leaving space for warrantless arrests.
The proclamation will be in place for 60 days unless Duterte wants it extended and Congress – dominated mostly by his allies – agrees to its extension. The Supreme Court may also review Duterte’s basis for the declaration.
While supporters of Duterte’s decision insist it’s a commensurate response to the threat of the Maute Group, which has pledged allegiance to ISIS, an expert on terrorism says the Philippine government needs to go beyond a “military solution” and focus on honest-to-goodness reforms for development-deprived parts of Mindanao.
Vulnerabilities
“Martial law, I think, sounds a lot graver than it actually is. I think it allows the military to take a few steps that are probably necessary at this point because the regional municipal governments and the city governments are not functioning and they are not able to deal with this,” said Justin Richmond in a May 24 Rappler Talk interview with Maria Ressa.
“However, I think martial law is not going to address these underlying issues,” Richmond added.
While radicalization may be different for each individual, Richmond said “it’s all based on vulnerability.”
“The widespread vulnerability that you see in every area dealing with radicalization is lack of economic opportunities and just general hopelessness, despair. The fact that aren’t opportunities for them to get out of Butig, out of Mamasapano, and so they are depressed and they are looking for some excitement, some hope, anything,” he said.
Butig is a town Maute Group members briefly took over in late 2016. Mamasapano in Maguindanao was the site of a failed and controversial police operation in 2015 that claimed the lives of more than 60 policemen, local armed group members, and local civilians.
The same 2015 operation triggered withdrawal of popular support among politicians in Manila for a peace deal between the MILF and the government, then headed by former president Benigno Aquino III. Talks between the MILF and the Duterte government are also ongoing.
Richmond cited the perennial problem of corruption, lack of access to basic services like education, and repeated setbacks to a peace deal, among others.
“So in every turn, the youth in these areas are hit with the lack of opportunity, racism, an attack on their own values. And they are not well-informed Muslims, they can’t even read the Koran in Arabic so they are very easily influenced,” he added.
Solving the problem
Richmond, who works with communities to “support modern Muslim voices” and train them to counter radical voices, says it’s ultimately about keeping those in power – the same people who control development funds – in check.
“They need to be held accountable for the corruption… and that follows at the feet of President Duterte. I believe he’s a strong enough leader to take them to task. He’s done it in the drug war and he needs to do it for corruption because there is no hope, no opportunity and there is no peace in Mindanao without these politicians in being held accountably,” he said.
The president has promised to make corruption eradication his top priority, just like the previous administration. Duterte has also fired several aides – including friends – over mere corruption allegations.
Duterte, who was mayor of Davao – Mindanao’s biggest city – for nearly two decades, is the first president from Mindanao. He’s repeatedly vowed to make sure development in the country isn’t focused only in Metro Manila and Luzon, but in the Visayas and Mindanao as well.
Earlier in 2017, Duterte’s aides said he wanted to take over development projects for Mindanao, particular those in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170985-philippines-isis-insurgency-development-mindanao
An expert on counterinsurgency says development is key to avoiding radicalization in the first place
On May 23, 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte placed the entire island region of Mindanao, composed of 6 regions and 27 provinces, under martial law following clashes between government forces and members of the Maute Group in Marawi City.
In the proclamation signed during what was supposed to be Duterte’s official visit to Russia, the president cited the Marawi attack and several previous Maute offensives as a reason to impose martial law and suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus over Mindanao.
Martial law means the military takes over since local officials – the local government and police, among others – are unable to handle threats to public safety. With the writ suspended, police and military personnel cannot be compelled to produce the body of a person suspected to be in their custody, effectively leaving space for warrantless arrests.
The proclamation will be in place for 60 days unless Duterte wants it extended and Congress – dominated mostly by his allies – agrees to its extension. The Supreme Court may also review Duterte’s basis for the declaration.
While supporters of Duterte’s decision insist it’s a commensurate response to the threat of the Maute Group, which has pledged allegiance to ISIS, an expert on terrorism says the Philippine government needs to go beyond a “military solution” and focus on honest-to-goodness reforms for development-deprived parts of Mindanao.
Vulnerabilities
“Martial law, I think, sounds a lot graver than it actually is. I think it allows the military to take a few steps that are probably necessary at this point because the regional municipal governments and the city governments are not functioning and they are not able to deal with this,” said Justin Richmond in a May 24 Rappler Talk interview with Maria Ressa.
“However, I think martial law is not going to address these underlying issues,” Richmond added.
While radicalization may be different for each individual, Richmond said “it’s all based on vulnerability.”
“The widespread vulnerability that you see in every area dealing with radicalization is lack of economic opportunities and just general hopelessness, despair. The fact that aren’t opportunities for them to get out of Butig, out of Mamasapano, and so they are depressed and they are looking for some excitement, some hope, anything,” he said.
Butig is a town Maute Group members briefly took over in late 2016. Mamasapano in Maguindanao was the site of a failed and controversial police operation in 2015 that claimed the lives of more than 60 policemen, local armed group members, and local civilians.
The same 2015 operation triggered withdrawal of popular support among politicians in Manila for a peace deal between the MILF and the government, then headed by former president Benigno Aquino III. Talks between the MILF and the Duterte government are also ongoing.
Richmond cited the perennial problem of corruption, lack of access to basic services like education, and repeated setbacks to a peace deal, among others.
“So in every turn, the youth in these areas are hit with the lack of opportunity, racism, an attack on their own values. And they are not well-informed Muslims, they can’t even read the Koran in Arabic so they are very easily influenced,” he added.
Solving the problem
Richmond, who works with communities to “support modern Muslim voices” and train them to counter radical voices, says it’s ultimately about keeping those in power – the same people who control development funds – in check.
“They need to be held accountable for the corruption… and that follows at the feet of President Duterte. I believe he’s a strong enough leader to take them to task. He’s done it in the drug war and he needs to do it for corruption because there is no hope, no opportunity and there is no peace in Mindanao without these politicians in being held accountably,” he said.
The president has promised to make corruption eradication his top priority, just like the previous administration. Duterte has also fired several aides – including friends – over mere corruption allegations.
Duterte, who was mayor of Davao – Mindanao’s biggest city – for nearly two decades, is the first president from Mindanao. He’s repeatedly vowed to make sure development in the country isn’t focused only in Metro Manila and Luzon, but in the Visayas and Mindanao as well.
Earlier in 2017, Duterte’s aides said he wanted to take over development projects for Mindanao, particular those in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170985-philippines-isis-insurgency-development-mindanao
Terror groups harass military camp in Marawi
From Rappler (May 25): Terror groups harass military camp in Marawi
The military says the terror groups are pinned down, and resorting to these attacks to try to shift the military’s attention from their focus areas
LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines – Terrorist groups harrassed the military camp in Marawi City on Thursday, May 25, on Day 3 of their clashes.
In two separate incidents in the afternoon, enemy snipers appeared to aim at military choppers flying in and out of the 103rd Brigade headquarters to move troops and supplies.
Troops grabbed their guns while civilians sought cover.
The harassment was repeated in the early evening just before a scheduled press conference inside the camp.
Loud exchanges of gunfire – the flashes shone bright against the dark sky – were heared from the camp.
But the camp is safe against what the military called “diversionary tactics.”
“Nakita ninyo terrain, napakababa. Wala siyang impact sa ating defense,” said Lieutenant Colonel Jo-Ar Herrera, spokesman of the 1st Infantry Division. (You can see the terrain, they’re on a low ground. It has no impact on our defense.)
Herrera said the terror groups are pinned down and are resorting to these attacks to try to shift the military’s attention from their focus areas.
"Operations continue. We will not stop until we flush out the remnants of the local terrorist group. We have a good coordination with our local government units, especially in the Inter-Agency Task Force Lanao. People are helping us, allowing us to pinpoint their locations," said Herrera.
Clashes erupted on Tuesday when the military moved to hunt down Abu Sayyaf senior leader Isnilon Hapilon, who was spotted in Marawi City. (READ: In Marawi, the exodus continues)
He was believed to have been severely wounded in air strikes in January.
Hapilon is reportedly the direct link to the international terrorist group Islamic State (ISIS). HE was supposedly designated to establish a caliphate in the Philippines.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170980-terror-groups-harass-military-camp-marawi
The military says the terror groups are pinned down, and resorting to these attacks to try to shift the military’s attention from their focus areas
LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines – Terrorist groups harrassed the military camp in Marawi City on Thursday, May 25, on Day 3 of their clashes.
In two separate incidents in the afternoon, enemy snipers appeared to aim at military choppers flying in and out of the 103rd Brigade headquarters to move troops and supplies.
Troops grabbed their guns while civilians sought cover.
The harassment was repeated in the early evening just before a scheduled press conference inside the camp.
Loud exchanges of gunfire – the flashes shone bright against the dark sky – were heared from the camp.
But the camp is safe against what the military called “diversionary tactics.”
“Nakita ninyo terrain, napakababa. Wala siyang impact sa ating defense,” said Lieutenant Colonel Jo-Ar Herrera, spokesman of the 1st Infantry Division. (You can see the terrain, they’re on a low ground. It has no impact on our defense.)
Herrera said the terror groups are pinned down and are resorting to these attacks to try to shift the military’s attention from their focus areas.
"Operations continue. We will not stop until we flush out the remnants of the local terrorist group. We have a good coordination with our local government units, especially in the Inter-Agency Task Force Lanao. People are helping us, allowing us to pinpoint their locations," said Herrera.
Clashes erupted on Tuesday when the military moved to hunt down Abu Sayyaf senior leader Isnilon Hapilon, who was spotted in Marawi City. (READ: In Marawi, the exodus continues)
He was believed to have been severely wounded in air strikes in January.
Hapilon is reportedly the direct link to the international terrorist group Islamic State (ISIS). HE was supposedly designated to establish a caliphate in the Philippines.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170980-terror-groups-harass-military-camp-marawi
6 soldiers dead, 7 injured as PH troops clear Marawi
From Rappler (May 26): 6 soldiers dead, 7 injured as PH troops clear Marawi
At least 31 members of the Maute Group are killed, the Armed Forces of the Philippines says
ONGOING OPERATION. Government troops prepare to assault the Maute group in Marawi City on May 25, 2017. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
At least 6 soldiers were killed on Thursday, May 25, as government troops continued to clear Marawi City following attacks by members of the Maute Group and the Abu Sayyaf.
Another 7 soldiers were injured as soldiers continued to engage with heavily-armed persons still in the city. Since clashes between government troops and the armed terrorist groups began on May 23, at least 11 soldiers and 2 policemen have died.
Troops cleared two bridges in Marawi City on May 25, resulting in an encounter with around 30 heavily-armed persons. The Western Mindanao Command, in a statement to the media, said that 15 from the enemy side were killed after a two-hour battle.
Soldiers also seized 5 high-powered firearms.
The military says a total of 31 Maute Group members have been killed since military operations in Marawi City began.
Military and police on May 23 were targeting Abu Sayyaf senior leader Isnilon Hapilon, who reportedly has direct links with ISIS, when they encountered the Maute and Abu Sayyaf sympathizers and members already in Marawi City.
Marawi residents soon shared photos on social media showing armed men roaming the city and hoisting the ISIS flag. The evening of May 23, at least 3 fires broke out.
Locals have since began fleeing Marawi in droves, as operations continue in the city.
The situation in Marawi and previous Maute Group offenses prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law over the entire Mindanao island region. He also suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus.
Martial law means the military takes over because the local government and police are unable to ensure public safety in a specific area. The suspension of the writ means the police and military cannot be compelled to produce the body of an individual suspected to be detained, leaving space for illegal warrantless arrests.
The declaration will stay in place for a maximum of 60 days unless Congress approves its extension. Still, the Supreme Court may review the basis of its declaration.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170992-soldiers-killed-marawi-may-25
At least 31 members of the Maute Group are killed, the Armed Forces of the Philippines says
ONGOING OPERATION. Government troops prepare to assault the Maute group in Marawi City on May 25, 2017. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
At least 6 soldiers were killed on Thursday, May 25, as government troops continued to clear Marawi City following attacks by members of the Maute Group and the Abu Sayyaf.
Another 7 soldiers were injured as soldiers continued to engage with heavily-armed persons still in the city. Since clashes between government troops and the armed terrorist groups began on May 23, at least 11 soldiers and 2 policemen have died.
Troops cleared two bridges in Marawi City on May 25, resulting in an encounter with around 30 heavily-armed persons. The Western Mindanao Command, in a statement to the media, said that 15 from the enemy side were killed after a two-hour battle.
Soldiers also seized 5 high-powered firearms.
The military says a total of 31 Maute Group members have been killed since military operations in Marawi City began.
Military and police on May 23 were targeting Abu Sayyaf senior leader Isnilon Hapilon, who reportedly has direct links with ISIS, when they encountered the Maute and Abu Sayyaf sympathizers and members already in Marawi City.
Marawi residents soon shared photos on social media showing armed men roaming the city and hoisting the ISIS flag. The evening of May 23, at least 3 fires broke out.
Locals have since began fleeing Marawi in droves, as operations continue in the city.
The situation in Marawi and previous Maute Group offenses prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law over the entire Mindanao island region. He also suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus.
Martial law means the military takes over because the local government and police are unable to ensure public safety in a specific area. The suspension of the writ means the police and military cannot be compelled to produce the body of an individual suspected to be detained, leaving space for illegal warrantless arrests.
The declaration will stay in place for a maximum of 60 days unless Congress approves its extension. Still, the Supreme Court may review the basis of its declaration.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170992-soldiers-killed-marawi-may-25
Admit ISIS presence in Philippines, analyst says
From Rappler (May 25): Admit ISIS presence in Philippines, analyst says
The Philippines is now the ISIS 'epicenter' in Southeast Asia, terror analyst Rohan Gunaratna tells Rappler's Maria Ressa
A leading terror analyst urged the Philippine government to admit Islamic State (ISIS or IS) presence in the Philippines, as the country is now the global terror group's "epicenter" in Southeast Asia.
"The time for taking the threat seriously has come," terror analyst Rohan Gunaratna said in a Rappler Talk interview with Maria Ressa on Thursday, May 25.
Gunaratna is the head of the International Center for Political Violence and Terrorism Research in Singapore, and the author of Inside al Qaeda: Global Network of Terror, the definitive text on the growth of Al Qaeda. He is now one of the world's leading experts on ISIS.
Gunaratna spoke to Rappler after the terrorist Maute Group, which he called the Islamic State Lanao, attacked Marawi City and prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in the whole of Mindanao. (READ: Duterte says martial law due to ISIS threat)
In his Rappler Talk interview, Gunaratna was asked about statements from Filipino officials that Maute Group shouldn't be called ISIS because "if you call them ISIS, you are helping them, you are buying into their propaganda."
The expert explained that members of the Maute Group, while breakaway elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), "are no longer Mautes" and "are no longer MILF." (READ: FAST FACTS: What you should know about the Maute Group)
"They are IS, because they are operating like IS, and they have changed the name," he said. "So we have to name them by the group they call themselves."
Gunaratna said it is "wrong to say that there is no IS in the Philippines," with IS Philippines "already practicing IS-style executions and IS-style operations."
Officials 'dismissive' of ISIS presence
"Those who are saying that do not understand that for IS to build a presence, Arabs, Iraqis, Syrians do not have to come all the way from Syria or the Middle East to the Philippines. It's simply that local groups embrace IS ideology and IS methodology," Gunaratna said.
"If we try to distort and if we say that this is fake news and this is media hype and this is propaganda, and your cities fall to terrorists, your police officers are killed, your religious people are butchered, your sawmill workers are executed, then you are making a mistake. You have to now fight this group," he added.Ads by AdAsia
The expert contrasted Duterte and his predecessor, former president Benigno Aquino III, toward ISIS presence in the country.
"Unfortunately, the former president always denied that there is IS. Military officers probably at his behest said there's no IS. At least now President Duterte has accepted there is IS," Gunaratna said.
Gunaratna said, however, that "even now, if you speak to senior Filipino officials, they are very dismissive that ISIS is operating" in the Philippines.
Gunaratna warned, "IS will use the base in the southern Philippines to mount attacks elsewhere in the region, as well as in the Visayas and in Luzon."
The analyst earlier told Rappler that during Ramadan, which is the Muslim holy month of fasting, "ISIS is planning to hit Manila and other capitals in the region."
Ramadan is expected to start on Saturday, May 27.
"If government is serious in the Philippines, and if governments in the region are serious, they will all work together with the Philippines to dismantle the IS presence in this region, especially in the Philippines, which is the epicenter of IS activity now in Southeast Asia," he said.
"The Philippines has just tasted IS on its soil."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170989-isis-presence-philippines-terrorism-expert
The Philippines is now the ISIS 'epicenter' in Southeast Asia, terror analyst Rohan Gunaratna tells Rappler's Maria Ressa
A leading terror analyst urged the Philippine government to admit Islamic State (ISIS or IS) presence in the Philippines, as the country is now the global terror group's "epicenter" in Southeast Asia.
"The time for taking the threat seriously has come," terror analyst Rohan Gunaratna said in a Rappler Talk interview with Maria Ressa on Thursday, May 25.
Gunaratna is the head of the International Center for Political Violence and Terrorism Research in Singapore, and the author of Inside al Qaeda: Global Network of Terror, the definitive text on the growth of Al Qaeda. He is now one of the world's leading experts on ISIS.
Gunaratna spoke to Rappler after the terrorist Maute Group, which he called the Islamic State Lanao, attacked Marawi City and prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in the whole of Mindanao. (READ: Duterte says martial law due to ISIS threat)
In his Rappler Talk interview, Gunaratna was asked about statements from Filipino officials that Maute Group shouldn't be called ISIS because "if you call them ISIS, you are helping them, you are buying into their propaganda."
The expert explained that members of the Maute Group, while breakaway elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), "are no longer Mautes" and "are no longer MILF." (READ: FAST FACTS: What you should know about the Maute Group)
"They are IS, because they are operating like IS, and they have changed the name," he said. "So we have to name them by the group they call themselves."
Gunaratna said it is "wrong to say that there is no IS in the Philippines," with IS Philippines "already practicing IS-style executions and IS-style operations."
Officials 'dismissive' of ISIS presence
"Those who are saying that do not understand that for IS to build a presence, Arabs, Iraqis, Syrians do not have to come all the way from Syria or the Middle East to the Philippines. It's simply that local groups embrace IS ideology and IS methodology," Gunaratna said.
"If we try to distort and if we say that this is fake news and this is media hype and this is propaganda, and your cities fall to terrorists, your police officers are killed, your religious people are butchered, your sawmill workers are executed, then you are making a mistake. You have to now fight this group," he added.Ads by AdAsia
The expert contrasted Duterte and his predecessor, former president Benigno Aquino III, toward ISIS presence in the country.
"Unfortunately, the former president always denied that there is IS. Military officers probably at his behest said there's no IS. At least now President Duterte has accepted there is IS," Gunaratna said.
Gunaratna said, however, that "even now, if you speak to senior Filipino officials, they are very dismissive that ISIS is operating" in the Philippines.
Gunaratna warned, "IS will use the base in the southern Philippines to mount attacks elsewhere in the region, as well as in the Visayas and in Luzon."
The analyst earlier told Rappler that during Ramadan, which is the Muslim holy month of fasting, "ISIS is planning to hit Manila and other capitals in the region."
Ramadan is expected to start on Saturday, May 27.
"If government is serious in the Philippines, and if governments in the region are serious, they will all work together with the Philippines to dismantle the IS presence in this region, especially in the Philippines, which is the epicenter of IS activity now in Southeast Asia," he said.
"The Philippines has just tasted IS on its soil."
http://www.rappler.com/nation/170989-isis-presence-philippines-terrorism-expert
Maute background, links: Little-known group becomes formidable force in PH
Posted to InterAksyon (May 25): Maute background, links: Little-known group becomes formidable force in PH
A tactically smart, social media savvy group eager to align with Islamic State has emerged from the glut of bandit and separatist groups in the southern Philippines, and so far has proved to be more than a match for the military.
Maute guerrillas seized large parts of Marawi, a predominantly Muslim city in the Mindanao region, on Tuesday after a botched raid by security forces on a hideout of the group.
Fighting abated on Wednesday, but residents said fighters were in control of the city, 1,400 km (870 miles) south of the capital Manila. They allowed many civilians to leave, although they had taken a Catholic priest hostage.
President Rodrigo Duterte has imposed martial law across Mindanao, saying he would use tough measures to prevent a “contamination” by Islamist extremists in the region, which comprises one-third of the sprawling, Catholic-majority Philippines.
“The Philippines is facing a dangerous group with more solid international connections,” security expert Rommel Banlaoi said of the Maute.
“This will be a game-changer in the fight against Islamist extremism, we haven’t seen anything like this before.”
The Philippines has long fought a simmering Islamic insurgency in Mindanao, but it has signed peace deals with some of the main militant groups and contained others. The region is also home to Marxist guerrillas as well as bandit gangs.
Based in Lanao del Sur, the Mindanao province which includes Marawi, the Maute surfaced around 2013 with a bombing of a nightclub in Cagayan de Oro, a mainly Christian city in a neighboring province, which killed six people.
The little-known group has raised its profile since Duterte took office 11 months ago, most notably with a September 2016 bombing of a street market in the president’s hometown of Davao City. Fourteen people were killed and dozens wounded.
It was blamed for a foiled bomb attempt near the United States embassy in Manila in November.
MIDDLE EAST LINKS
The group is named after its leaders, the Maute brothers, both Filipinos with extensive ties to the Middle East, according to the military.
Egypt-educated Omarkhayan Romato Maute married an Indonesian, the daughter of a conservative Islamic cleric, while his brother Abdullah studied in Jordan and has links to Arab extremists. A third brother Hashim was arrested but escaped from a Marawi jail last year.
Last year, the group sought recognition from the Islamic State, pledging allegiance and calling itself as the IS-Ranao.
The Maute brothers are cousins of the second wife of Alim Abdulaziz Mimbantas, a leader of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) who is now dead. The government signed a peace deal with the MILF in 2014.
Military intelligence said the Maute brothers also had links to two of the region’s most dangerous militants – Indonesian Ustadz Sanusi and Malaysian bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan. Both were killed by Philippine security forces, Sanusi in 2012 and bin Hir in 2015.
In an October 2016 report, regional security expert Sidney Jones said the Maute “has the smartest, best-educated and most sophisticated members of all of the pro-ISIS groups in the Philippines”.
Jones said the Maute group was sophisticated in its use of social media and was able to attract students and teachers from the Mindanao State University in Marawi.
The Philippines had until this year denied it was home to groups with Islamic State ties. In February, Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told Reuters there was credible intelligence showing Islamic State was providing funds and sounding out the Philippines as a base.
The military has not had much success in battles with Maute fighters, despite far greater numbers and use of planes, attack helicopters and artillery.
“The Mautes have shown an ability to absorb what would seem to be major losses in clashes with the police and military, suggesting that their organization is larger and better organized that perhaps they have been given credit for,” Jones said in the report.
Military officials say it is not possible to estimate the number of Maute fighters – some reports have put the number of at over 100, but others say there could be about 1,000.
What is troubling the security apparatus is that radical elements of another Islamic State-linked group, Abu Sayyaf, appear to be collaborating with Maute, far from its island strongholds of Basilan, Jolo and Tawi Tawi, all off Mindanao.
The military says Isnilon Hapilon, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf group notorious for kidnappings and piracy, sought an alliance with the Maute brothers and was wounded in air strikes in January in Lanao del Sur.
Hapilon, who is also wanted by the United States, was the target of Tuesday’s attempted raid in Marawi, but was not captured.
http://www.interaksyon.com/maute-bakground-links-little-known-group-becomes-formidable-force-in-ph/
A tactically smart, social media savvy group eager to align with Islamic State has emerged from the glut of bandit and separatist groups in the southern Philippines, and so far has proved to be more than a match for the military.
Maute guerrillas seized large parts of Marawi, a predominantly Muslim city in the Mindanao region, on Tuesday after a botched raid by security forces on a hideout of the group.
Fighting abated on Wednesday, but residents said fighters were in control of the city, 1,400 km (870 miles) south of the capital Manila. They allowed many civilians to leave, although they had taken a Catholic priest hostage.
President Rodrigo Duterte has imposed martial law across Mindanao, saying he would use tough measures to prevent a “contamination” by Islamist extremists in the region, which comprises one-third of the sprawling, Catholic-majority Philippines.
“The Philippines is facing a dangerous group with more solid international connections,” security expert Rommel Banlaoi said of the Maute.
“This will be a game-changer in the fight against Islamist extremism, we haven’t seen anything like this before.”
The Philippines has long fought a simmering Islamic insurgency in Mindanao, but it has signed peace deals with some of the main militant groups and contained others. The region is also home to Marxist guerrillas as well as bandit gangs.
Based in Lanao del Sur, the Mindanao province which includes Marawi, the Maute surfaced around 2013 with a bombing of a nightclub in Cagayan de Oro, a mainly Christian city in a neighboring province, which killed six people.
The little-known group has raised its profile since Duterte took office 11 months ago, most notably with a September 2016 bombing of a street market in the president’s hometown of Davao City. Fourteen people were killed and dozens wounded.
It was blamed for a foiled bomb attempt near the United States embassy in Manila in November.
MIDDLE EAST LINKS
The group is named after its leaders, the Maute brothers, both Filipinos with extensive ties to the Middle East, according to the military.
Egypt-educated Omarkhayan Romato Maute married an Indonesian, the daughter of a conservative Islamic cleric, while his brother Abdullah studied in Jordan and has links to Arab extremists. A third brother Hashim was arrested but escaped from a Marawi jail last year.
Last year, the group sought recognition from the Islamic State, pledging allegiance and calling itself as the IS-Ranao.
The Maute brothers are cousins of the second wife of Alim Abdulaziz Mimbantas, a leader of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) who is now dead. The government signed a peace deal with the MILF in 2014.
Military intelligence said the Maute brothers also had links to two of the region’s most dangerous militants – Indonesian Ustadz Sanusi and Malaysian bomb maker Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan. Both were killed by Philippine security forces, Sanusi in 2012 and bin Hir in 2015.
In an October 2016 report, regional security expert Sidney Jones said the Maute “has the smartest, best-educated and most sophisticated members of all of the pro-ISIS groups in the Philippines”.
Jones said the Maute group was sophisticated in its use of social media and was able to attract students and teachers from the Mindanao State University in Marawi.
The Philippines had until this year denied it was home to groups with Islamic State ties. In February, Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told Reuters there was credible intelligence showing Islamic State was providing funds and sounding out the Philippines as a base.
The military has not had much success in battles with Maute fighters, despite far greater numbers and use of planes, attack helicopters and artillery.
“The Mautes have shown an ability to absorb what would seem to be major losses in clashes with the police and military, suggesting that their organization is larger and better organized that perhaps they have been given credit for,” Jones said in the report.
Military officials say it is not possible to estimate the number of Maute fighters – some reports have put the number of at over 100, but others say there could be about 1,000.
What is troubling the security apparatus is that radical elements of another Islamic State-linked group, Abu Sayyaf, appear to be collaborating with Maute, far from its island strongholds of Basilan, Jolo and Tawi Tawi, all off Mindanao.
The military says Isnilon Hapilon, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf group notorious for kidnappings and piracy, sought an alliance with the Maute brothers and was wounded in air strikes in January in Lanao del Sur.
Hapilon, who is also wanted by the United States, was the target of Tuesday’s attempted raid in Marawi, but was not captured.
http://www.interaksyon.com/maute-bakground-links-little-known-group-becomes-formidable-force-in-ph/